Where to Find Bali’s Best Craft Beers: A Journey Through the Island’s Hoppy Heart
In Bali, where the scent of frangipani mingles with sea breeze and the sun dips behind volcanoes, a quiet revolution is bubbling in glasses across the island. Beyond its emerald rice terraces and sacred temples, Bali is becoming a vibrant hub for craft beer—a movement that echoes both the island’s creative pulse and its spirit of community. As a traveler eager for authentic experiences, following the trail of Bali’s best craft beers is not just about tasting; it’s about discovering the stories and people that make this island endlessly enchanting.
The Dawn of Balinese Craft Beer
Not so many years ago, the only beer you’d find at a beachside warung was the ubiquitous Bintang, its green bottle as much a symbol of Bali as the sound of a gamelan at dusk. But as Bali has welcomed an influx of artisans, chefs, and visionaries from across the globe, its brewing scene has blossomed. Local and expat brewers now channel their creativity into bold IPAs infused with tropical fruits, crisp lagers perfect for sultry afternoons, and stouts that evoke Bali’s rich volcanic soil.
To truly savor Bali’s best craft beers, you’ll want to venture beyond the tourist hubs, weaving your way from bustling beach towns to quiet inland villages. Here are some of my favorite places to sip, savor, and connect, each with its own unique story and sense of place.
1. Black Sand Brewery – Canggu’s Creative Core
Location: Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu
Begin your journey in Canggu, Bali’s hip surf town, where rice fields stretch towards the sea and digital nomads mingle with local fishermen. Black Sand Brewery sits at the heart of this creative chaos, its open-air taproom drawing in a diverse crowd. The brewery’s founders are passionate about sustainability, crafting their beers with locally sourced ingredients and a commitment to reducing waste.
Must-Try: The Tropical IPA, bursting with flavors of passionfruit and citrus, is as lively as a Balinese festival. Pair it with their wood-fired pizzas for a sunset you won’t soon forget.
Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday afternoon when the brewery is quieter. You may catch a glimpse of the brewers at work, or strike up a conversation with locals eager to share their favorite hidden beaches.
2. Island Brewing – Uluwatu’s Cliffside Gem
Location: Jalan Labuansait, Pecatu (Uluwatu)
Perched above the turquoise waves of Uluwatu, Island Brewing offers not only panoramic views but also a window into Bali’s evolving beer culture. This eco-conscious brewery draws inspiration from the elements—wind, water, earth, and fire—infusing their ales with a sense of place.
Must-Try: Their Island Ale, a crisp and refreshing brew, is perfect after a morning surf at the legendary Uluwatu breaks. For the adventurous, the limited-edition seasonal brews often incorporate local spices and botanicals.
Cultural Connection: Island Brewing often hosts live music and art events, providing a platform for Balinese artists and musicians. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the island’s creative energy while supporting local talent.
3. Kura Kura Beer – A Taste of Tradition in the Heartland
Location: Jalan Raya Sempidi, Mengwi (between Canggu and Ubud)
Nestled amongst coconut palms and the gentle rhythms of rural Bali, Kura Kura Beer embodies the island’s slow-paced charm. “Kura kura” means turtle in Indonesian—a symbol of longevity and wisdom. This brewery is dedicated to honoring Balinese ingredients and traditions, crafting beers that reflect the land’s bounty.
Must-Try: The Lager, clean and subtly floral, is brewed with mountain spring water and local rice, a nod to Bali’s ancient agricultural heritage. For a deeper connection, join one of their brewery tours, where you’ll learn about sustainable brewing practices and the stories behind each recipe.
Travel Tip: Combine your visit with a cycling trip through the surrounding villages, where temple processions and farmers working the fields offer glimpses of Bali’s enduring spirit.
4. Twisted Bintang – Ubud’s Artistic Hideaway
Location: Jalan Gautama, Ubud
In the cultural heart of Bali, where incense drifts through ancient banyan trees and artists sketch in sunlit courtyards, Twisted Bintang offers a refreshing escape. This cozy microbrewery is beloved by locals and travelers alike for its experimental brews and warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Must-Try: Don’t miss their Jasmine Pale Ale, delicately infused with local flowers—a true taste of Ubud’s poetic soul. The rotating taps mean there’s always something new to try, often inspired by the changing seasons and nearby markets.
Cultural Anecdote: Strike up a conversation with the brewmaster, who may share tales of Bali’s mystical side—like how certain brews are blessed at the temple before being served.
5. Brews Brothers – Sanur’s Seaside Secret
Location: Jalan Danau Tamblingan, Sanur
For those seeking a more tranquil pace, Sanur’s palm-lined promenade offers a gentle embrace. Tucked behind a leafy garden, Brews Brothers is a hidden gem where community comes first. Family-run and fiercely independent, this brewery sources ingredients from neighboring islands and supports local farmers.
Must-Try: The Mango Wheat Beer is summer in a glass—cold, fragrant, and almost too easy to drink after a day exploring Bali’s coral reefs.
Sustainable Note: Brews Brothers partners with local environmental groups to organize beach clean-ups and marine conservation projects. Every pint you buy helps protect the island’s natural beauty.
Beyond the Glass: The Spirit of Balinese Craft Beer
Sampling Bali’s best craft beers is more than a culinary adventure—it’s an invitation to connect with the island’s creative, community-driven ethos. Each brewery is a gathering place, where stories are shared and friendships forged over frothy glasses. As you sip, look beyond the foam and notice the details: the way sunlight dances on a bamboo counter, the hum of Gamelan in the distance, the laughter that rings out as strangers become friends.
In my own journeys, I’ve learned that the true taste of Bali isn’t just in its food or drink, but in the spirit of sharing and celebration that infuses every moment. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious traveler, let Bali’s craft breweries be your gateway to the island’s authentic heart. Raise a glass, savor the flavors, and toast to the beauty of discovery.
Selamat minum! (Cheers!)
If you enjoyed this guide, wander further: explore Bali’s hidden waterfalls, join a temple ceremony, or learn the art of batik from a local master. The island’s best stories are always found off the beaten path.
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