Pantai Pemutih or more famously Impossible Beach in Bali

Situated between Bingin Beach and Padang Padang Beach, in South Bali near Uluwatu Temple and Dreamland Beach, lies this magnificent surfer’s paradise, the swell here is less than that of its neighbours because of the sheltered nature of the cove, making it an interesting challenge for intermediate surfers.

With its white sandy beach and crystal clear turquoise waters, Pantai Pemutih is not very widely known but it is good news to pro surfers who are looking for a great surfing experience.

Originally known as Pantai Permutih, it is popularly known as Impossible in the surfing community. The origin of the name is uncertain but probably comes from the fact the wave here is so swift it is almost impossible to surf and the path leading to this beach is also difficult to navigate through as it is encircled with boulders and huge rocks.

Impossible Beach is an absolute must if you are planning for Bali tour packages, especially for surfers who are on the lookout for challenging waves and an adrenaline rush. Although swimming is almost not possible here, you can paddle through the waters during low tide or just soak in some vitamin sea which has a stunning vista of the Indian Ocean and you can enjoy the picturesque sunsets while chilling and unwinding with some great food and music. The nightlife scene in Bali is one not to be missed and totally one of the best things to do for people who like partying meeting new people, and having some wild fun.

Things to do in Impossible Beach

• Surfing: Impossible Beach is one of the most popular beaches for surfers and with its rugged shoreline and white massive waves, it is a favorite amongst pro surfers. These are some of the other places to surf in Bali that are worth exploring in Bali.

• Sunset Viewing: As with many beaches in South Bali, Impossible Beach offers a great vista for beachgoers for sunset viewing. 
• Exploring the Uluwatu Temple: A mere 18 minutes away from Impossible Beach, Uluwatu Temple is the most important tourist attraction where one can enjoy the sunset view and also experience the Balinese Traditional Kecak Fire Dance.
• Visit the nearby beaches: Located in the southernmost point of the island, the Bukit Peninsula has many popular beaches of Uluwatu, Bingin, Padang Padang, Impossibles, Green Bowl, Balangan – for die-hard surf fanatics- and with its beautiful secret beaches such as Nyang Nyang along its coastline. 

• Try popular Balinese Cuisine:  You can try out the various Balinese delicacies like Nasi Goreng, Gado Gado, Mie Goreng, etc, and also explore some of the local warungs available on the beach. If you are a foodaholic, then Food in Bali is an excellent guide for you to explore some of the best places to eat in Bali.
• Experience the party scene in Bali: Nights in Bali, come alive with various pubs and nightclubs. Bali has a little of everything for everyone, if you are not a party person and are looking for some adventures at night, you can opt for the many rooftop bars, evening cruises, beach bars, night safari, theatre shows, night tours, night markets, cabaret shows, live music events and many more.

Suggested Read: Kuta’s Nightlife In Bali

How to reach Impossible Beach

Impossible Beach is a stunning hidden gem located in the Uluwatu area. To reach Impossible Beach, you will need to first reach the Uluwatu area, which is only a 30-60-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, depending on the traffic conditions. The best option is to pre-book a private airport transfer which will take you directly to your hotel. A cheaper option is to take a taxi from the airport arrivals area.

From Kuta/Seminyak: If you’re already in Kuta, Seminyak, or elsewhere in south Bali, you can take a taxi or pre-book a driver for the 30-60 minute drive south to Uluwatu. Minibuses also run regularly during day hours for just 50,000 IDR( Subject to change) per person each way.

Tip: Be sure to check what part of Uluwatu your hotel is located in, as some areas like Padang Padang Beach are up to 30 minutes drive from central Uluwatu.

Once you have reached Uluwatu, drive towards Padang-Padang Beach, which is a well-known surfing spot in the area. As you approach Padang-Padang Beach, look for a small pathway on the left side of the road that leads to Impossible Beach. This path is relatively hidden and easy to miss, so one must be very attentive. There is usually a small sign indicating the entrance to the beach. Follow the pathway down a series of steep stairs carved into the limestone cliffs. Please note that the descent can be challenging, especially during wet conditions, so wearing appropriate footwear and exercising caution is advisable. Once you’ve descended the stairs, you’ll have reached the pristine white sands of Impossible Beach.

 Please note that Impossible Beach is best visited during low tide, as the beach can become inaccessible during high tide.

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Best Time to visit Impossible Beach

The ideal time to visit Impossible Beach is in April, May, June, September, and October, right before and after the high season. Likewise, the months of July and August, as well as Easter, Christmas, and New Year’s, are high seasons with a large number of visitors.

Travel Tips for Impossible Beach

To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Impossible Beach, it’s essential to keep in mind some tips and precautions. Here are a few suggestions to help you make the most of your time at this hidden gem :

• Tide Awareness: Check the tide schedule before visiting Impossible Beach, as it is best accessed during low tide. High tide can limit beach access and make swimming or exploring the tide pools more challenging.

• Footwear: Wear appropriate footwear to protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral while exploring the beach or walking down the steep stairs leading to the beach.

• Sun Protection: The sun can be intense in Bali, so make sure to bring sun protection, including sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a hat. Also, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

• Supplies: As facilities at Impossible Beach are limited, bring necessary supplies such as water, snacks, a beach towel, and a small first aid kit. Keep in mind that there are no shops or restaurants on the beach, so plan accordingly.

• Safety in the Water: Exercise caution when swimming or snorkeling, as strong currents can be present. If you’re not a strong swimmer, consider wearing a lifejacket or flotation device for added safety.

• Respect the Environment: Help preserve the natural beauty of Impossible Beach by not littering and taking all your trash with you when you leave. Avoid touching or stepping on coral while snorkeling, as it can damage the fragile ecosystem.

• Secure Your Belongings: While Impossible Beach is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and not leave them unattended on the beach.
• Be Mindful of Others: Whether you are swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach, be aware of other visitors and respect their space. If you’re surfing, ensure you follow proper surf etiquette to maintain a safe environment for everyone.

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