There’s something truly special about a family beach holiday — salty air, warm sand, and the kind of slow, sunny days that leave everyone smiling. But not all beaches in Bali are made the same—especially when you’ve got kids in tow. Some are perfect for surfing, while others are ideal for safe swimming and laid-back family days. After years of living here and helping families find their perfect Bali getaway, we know exactly which beaches tick all the right boxes for little ones, big kids, and grown-ups too.
From calm waves and soft sand to easy access and space to run free, here are our top 3 family-friendly beaches in Bali for families with young kids—because when the beach is right, everything else just falls into place.
The Best Beaches in Bali for Families
Sanur Beach
Sanur is a top choice when it comes to the best beaches in Bali for families. Its calm, shallow waters are ideal for little swimmers, and it’s hands-down the best beach for paddle boarding. A long, paved beachfront path—shaded by trees—makes it cool and comfortable for pram walks, scooters, or a slow morning stroll. Local warungs line the path, along with some excellent cafés that serve espresso just as well as your favourite spot back home. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over a long breakfast, sip a few perfect cappuccinos, and wander straight to the water as the sun climbs higher.
Where to stay:
Jimbaran Bay
Jimbaran Bay is an underrated gem – most travelers come in the evening for its legendary seafood dinners, but during the day, this beach blends gentle bay waters with golden sand–all the ingredients for a laid-back family day.
The waves in Jimbaran Bay are safe and gentle because it’s a sheltered bay, protected from strong ocean currents and swells. Unlike Bali’s reef breaks—popular with experienced surfers—Jimbaran has a sandy bottom and calmer waters, making it ideal for the kids to paddle while you relax under an umbrella. As evening falls, enjoy a beachside feast with grilled seafood, corn on the cob, and banana fritters — a delicious intro to Bali beach culinary culture. For more advanced surfers the airport reefs are nearby too.
Where to stay:
Double Six Beach, Seminyak
Double Six Beach in Seminyak offers a vibrant yet family-friendly vibe. With wide sandy stretches and colourful beanbags for lounging, it’s ideal for families who want a bit of fun and flair. Kids can run freely, build sandcastles, or join a beach football game, while parents enjoy smoothies or sunset mocktails from nearby cafés. And if you’re up for throwback hair braiding, massage or manicures – the beach ladies will summon their crew and give your whole family that classic “We went to Bali” holiday look.
Where to stay:
Tamarind Beach, Lembongan
Tamarind Beach on the bay side of Lembongan is great for beach time with the family. Walk around to coconut beach and Lago cafe or play directly out the front of your Lembongan Family Villa. With clear waters and snorkelling trips on offer Lembongan is a true beach holiday. For older kids adventure activities like banana boating are available at nearby Mushroom Beach. This beach paradise is just 30 minutes from Bali by fast boat services.
Where to stay:
Fun Family Beach Activities in Bali
Once you’ve picked your beach base, it’s time to dive into the fun. Bali offers endless opportunities for play, discovery, and bonding. Here are some of our favourite family beach activities that make the island so unforgettable:
1. Sandcastle Building and Beach Games
Sometimes, it’s the simplest moments that create the most lasting memories. Kids love digging moats and decorating castles with shells. Our complimentary beach toys mean you are ready to go.
2. Snorkelling
Bali’s clear waters and colourful marine life make snorkelling a hit with families. Lembongan is a great snorkelling spot or off the shore of Sanur for little ones just starting out.
3. Learn to Surf Together
If your family’s up for a splash of adventure, book a group surf lesson in Kuta or Legian. The waves are gentle, and the instructors are known for their patience with kids and beginners. See our Bali Guide Page for ideas.
https://staging.balifamilyvillas.com/family-fun-seminyak/
4. Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Sanur
Older kids and teens will love the challenge of balancing on a board while cruising through Sanur’s peaceful lagoon. It’s a gentle way to enjoy the water and spot small fish along the way. Rent a board or a canoe from the beach vendors.
5. Sunset Dinner
From Canggu to Kuta Golden Hour is a Bali experience not to miss. With grilled corn, casual beach cafes offering drinks and meals, head down for sunset vibes and let the kids burn off energy before bed time.
Let Us Help You Plan Your Bali Family Holiday
At Bali Family Villas, we don’t just offer beautiful Bali Holiday homes by the beach — we help you design the trip of a lifetime. From private villas with pools and toys to trusted babysitters, pool fencing and beach day setups, we’re here to make things easy.
We’ve also created a family vacation guide to help you plan your stay, with practical tips, favourite local spots, and must-know info for family travellers.
Plus, our concierge service can help suggest surf lessons, snorkelling , airport transfers, or a private chef — so you can focus on fun, not logistics.