Exploring Bali’s Volcano-Lined Coastlines

Exploring Bali’s Volcano-Lined Coastlines: A Dutch Perspective on Island Adventure

By Fenna

*There’s a certain magic to Bali that goes far beyond its bustling beach clubs and iconic rice terraces. For me, the real allure lies in the island’s wild edges—where volcanic peaks tumble into untamed coastlines, and every sunrise feels like a secret just for you. As a Dutch traveler with a penchant for both cycling up dikes and surfing down waves, I couldn’t resist the call of Bali’s volcano-lined shores. Ready for an adventure? Kom mee—let’s explore Bali’s most captivating coastlines, shaped by fire and framed by the sea.

1. The Dramatic Black Sands of Amed: Where Volcano Meets Ocean

Waking up in Amed, the world feels different. The air is thick with salt and frangipani, and the black volcanic sand crunches pleasantly underfoot. Unlike the golden beaches of Kuta, Amed’s shores are a moody tapestry—think of the rugged North Sea dunes, but with palm trees and the imposing silhouette of Mount Agung watching over you.

Practical tip:
Rent a scooter (yes, even if you’re Dutch and more used to bicycles!) and wind along the coastal road. At every bend, you’ll spot traditional jukung fishing boats bobbing on the waves, their colors a perfect contrast to the dark sand. Sunrise here is spectacular—set your alarm for 5:30 a.m. and watch the sun edge up behind Agung, turning the ocean silver and gold.

Photographer’s note:
Bring your wide-angle lens. The interplay of volcanic peaks, palm forests, and sea is every Instagrammer’s dream.

2. Tulamben: Diving into a Volcanic Wonderland

Ask any European diver about Bali, and their eyes light up at the mention of Tulamben. The USS Liberty shipwreck lies just meters off shore, encrusted with vibrant coral and teeming with life. But what makes it truly special is the black volcanic pebbles that line the seabed—a stark, lunar landscape beneath the turquoise waters.

Dutch tip:
If you’re used to the cold North Sea, you’ll love the balmy water temperatures here (around 28°C year-round). Don’t miss the sunrise dive—there’s something poetic about descending into a world shaped by both man and volcano, as shafts of morning light pierce the water.

Practical advice:
Book your dive with a local operator. They know the tides, the currents, and the best hidden corners of the wreck.

3. The Secret Bays of East Bali: Pasir Putih and Beyond

Tired of the crowds? Head east, where hidden beaches like Pasir Putih (literally “White Sand Beach”) await. Here, the volcanic coastline softens, giving way to unexpected stretches of pale sand and crystalline coves. The road there is an adventure—a bumpy ride past banana groves, with Agung’s slopes always in the background.

Fenna’s favorite:
Order fresh grilled ikan bakar (fish) at one of the warungs on the sand, and watch local kids play football in the surf. It’s gezellig in a Balinese way—laid-back, communal, and utterly authentic.

Photographer’s note:
These beaches are best shot in the late afternoon, when the light turns honey-gold and the shadows of the mountains stretch across the sea.

4. Volcanic Cliffs and Spiritual Vibes: Pura Luhur Uluwatu

No exploration of Bali’s volcanic coast is complete without a visit to Uluwatu. Perched dramatically atop sheer cliffs, the temple here is both a spiritual haven and a photographer’s paradise. The Indian Ocean crashes below, relentless and wild—a reminder of the volcanic forces that shaped this land.

Dutch perspective:
The clifftop paths remind me of the windswept walks along Zeeland’s dunes, but here, instead of lighthouses, you’ll find ancient shrines and cheeky macaques. Stay for the sunset Kecak dance—a mesmerizing blend of fire, rhythm, and legend.

Practical tip:
Hold onto your sunglasses; the monkeys are notorious for their light-fingered antics!

5. West Bali: The Untamed Edge

Few travelers make it to the far west, but Menjangan Island and the surrounding national park offer a glimpse of Bali as it once was—raw, wild, and virtually untouched. Here, volcanoes loom in the distance, and the coastline is a tangle of mangroves and coral reefs.

Fenna’s advice:
Pack your snorkel and a sense of adventure. The reefs here are among the best in Indonesia, and you might just have them all to yourself.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Bali’s Volcanic Soul

Bali’s volcano-lined coasts are not just a feast for the eyes—they’re a playground for the adventurous and a canvas for photographers. From the black sands of Amed to the soaring cliffs of Uluwatu, these landscapes tell a story of fire, water, and timeless Balinese spirit. For Dutch travelers like me, it’s a reminder that the best adventures often lie beyond the dykes and dunes of home.

Ready to explore Bali’s wildest shores? Pack your camera, your sense of wonder, and maybe a stroopwafel or two for the road. The volcanoes are waiting.

Follow @fenna.travels for more vibrant stories and snapshots from the world’s most beautiful corners—always with a Dutch twist!