Nyang Nyang is one of Bali’s hardest to reach but most beautiful beaches. Visitors must either come through the Nyang Nyang hotel near the Uluwatu temple, which means staying there as a guest or at least buying something from the restaurant, or can head down a “road” that is full of rocks, tree roots, and holes, and which is covered in thick mud after rains. Off-road vehicles can make it, but most taxis and drivers will refuse to go down this path.

After the journey, visitors will find themselves at the top of a sheer cliff overlooking the beach and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. From there, there are roughly 600 steps to go down, which are cut out of the rough cliff-side and pass through wild bushes and trees. Those who make it down will be greeted by a pristine white sand beach, edged by crystal clear blue waters that are teeming with marine life, and surrounded by green cliffs rising almost straight out of the water.

Most of the visitors to this beach are surfers and their friends, as this is one of the only places in Bali that has waves all year round. The waves here are always much bigger than anywhere else, as there is nothing between this beach and the South Pole but empty ocean. While this can be a good place for snorkeling and diving, it is very dangerous for the inexperienced. Strong currents race out into the ocean, with no boats or other humans in sight. Thanks to the live reefs and many fish, it is also a place that is frequently visited by large sharks.

It is best avoided at midday, when the sun directly overhead is blistering hot, so a morning or late afternoon visit is best. Make sure to head up the steps long before sunset, as there are no lights. Fitness enthusiasts, lovers of adventure, and surfers will be attracted to this beach. Others would do better to stay away, particularly families with young children.