Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida Island, Bali, has secured a place on TripAdvisor’s prestigious “Best of the Best Beaches for 2025” list, reaffirming its status as one of the world’s most stunning coastal destinations.
The ranking, based on a comprehensive analysis of global traveler reviews over the past year, places Kelingking Beach at No. 9 among the top 10 beaches worldwide
According to TripAdvisor, the top 10 beaches in the world this year are:
- Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
- Banana Beach, Phuket, Thailand
- Eagle Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba
- Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida
- Praia da Falsia, Algarve, Portugal
- Playa Varadero, Varadero, Cuba
- Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
- Playa de Muro Beach, Mallorca, Spain
- Kelingking Beach, Bali, Indonesia
- Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia Island, Greece
What To Do When Visiting Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach, known for its dramatic cliff formations resembling a T-Rex, white sand, and turquoise waters, offers more than just postcard-worthy views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including:
- Trekking Down the Cliffs – The rugged 80-degree slope leading to the beach is a challenging yet rewarding hike, offering breathtaking ocean vistas along the way.
- Diving with Manta Rays – Just offshore, Manta Point is a prime location for divers to swim alongside the majestic manta rays in their natural habitat.
- Snorkeling in Vibrant Coral Reefs – The crystal-clear waters surrounding Kelingking Beach are home to rich marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling.
- Enjoying the View from Above – For those who prefer to stay on higher ground, the cliffside viewpoint provides a sweeping panorama of the Indian Ocean.
- Visiting the Love Tree (Pohon Cinta) – Located near Kelingking Secret Point, this picturesque tree offers a unique photo opportunity with a stunning ocean backdrop.
- Exploring Nearby Beaches – Visitors can extend their adventure by exploring other beautiful beaches on Nusa Penida, such as Atuh Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong.
The Glass Lift Controversy
Despite its natural appeal, Kelingking Beach has recently become the center of controversy due to the construction of a 180-meter-high glass lift, aimed at improving access to the beach.
Initiated in July 2023, the project has sparked concerns among conservationists and travelers who fear it may disrupt the area’s pristine environment.
Critics argue that the lift undermines the beach’s raw beauty and could pave the way for further commercial development, such as resorts and beach clubs. Balinese senator and activist Niluh Djelantik has publicly denounced the project, stating that the challenge of the descent is part of what makes Kelingking Beach special.
International media outlets have also weighed in, with Daily Mail describing the project as emblematic of the tension between Bali’s untouched natural wonders and the push for modern tourist infrastructure. Some travelers have voiced their disapproval on social media, with one Instagram user calling the lift a “disaster” and warning of the impact of mass tourism on Bali’s delicate ecosystem.
Others, however, support the initiative, arguing that it will provide employment opportunities for locals and make the beach accessible to a broader range of visitors.
Watch a short documentary about the controversy here.
