The Bali Beach
When one thinks of Bali beaches, the expectation is often a big island full of partying, meditation, healing, and everyone having a good time. While this is generally true, the reality is different when it comes to the beaches. It is assumed that it will be like spring break in Florida or a big party on the beach all the time. However, the Bali beaches are mostly comprised of middle to older-aged white adults, who do not fit the general stereotype of the perfect beach body with the perfect little bikini running around on the beach. Instead, what you have is mostly middle-aged older men and women lounging around drinking beer and eating seafood. Social media has a great way of showing us perfection, and we know social media is always correct and accurate.
However, it is important to note.
These photos are generally edited and are rarely candid photos that would have us run and hide under the nearest rock if everybody saw what we looked like. While certain beaches in different areas of Bali are more prone to younger demographics, it is unlikely that visitors will find the spring break, wild party atmosphere that many are expecting.
Bali is home to many Balinese and a host of other Indonesians from across the archipelago. The many different islands bring their taste to the beaches of Bali as well. Yet most are still middle-aged Caucasians. The influx of Russians has changed this so the age demographics may have changed a little.
Let Me Paint a Picture.
Sanur, the sunrise side of Bali is full of old, older, and very old people. It is quiet and is usually cleared out by 8 p.m. Some restaurants are open a little later, however most people clear out quickly. There are bicycle paths, but they are more of an obstacle course that can only be used at night. The Nusa Dua and Benoa beaches are in the same state because they do not have sunsets.
The sunset side beaches are the most popular for obvious reasons. Surfing changes the demographics in the Canggu and Uluwatu areas. Many young and fit individuals tend to gather here and Canggu and Uluwatu have become the favorite places for surfing.
The Seminyak, Legian, and Double Six beaches also have an elderly demographic. However, the one thing that I do like about all the beaches is that locals come out to play. From the young and old, the locals also flock to the beaches for the sunsets. Regardless of who watches, the sunsets are the main reason to visit the beaches. The small bikinis are a bonus!
