Best beaches in Bali for swimming — Sanur vs Nusa Dua comparison

Amed beach is great for swimming regardless of tides. There are plenty of cheap local eateries nearby. Snorkeling is accessible even for non-swimmers — you can stand in shallow water with a mask and fish swim right around you.

It depends on your expectations: if you're used to beaches better than Turkey or Egypt, neither Sanur nor Nusa Dua will impress. The best swimming experience from personal experience is at Melasti Beach.

Sanur is convenient for day trips and has decent beaches like Karang, plus beachfront hotels, but tidal variation is significant. Nusa Dua is better for tides — especially the stretch between Geger Beach and the Hyatt hotel. The northern part of Nusa Dua can become very shallow at low tide.

Hotels in the northern part of Nusa Dua are cheaper, but the beach turns into a shallow puddle at low tide. The Sofitel Bali in Nusa Dua is a solid choice: great beach, minimal tidal difference, with only occasional light waves.

Bali Tropic Resort is a solid 4-star with great facilities including windsurfing, kayaking, and a sauna, but the beach is very shallow at low tide — knee-deep at best.

Melasti, Pandawa, and Nyang Nyang beaches are good for swimming but can have waves in season. They're better as day trips than as a base — shops, taxis, and tours are not nearby.

Currents in Nusa Dua are currently bringing debris to shore, which is worth keeping in mind when planning a swim.

Sanur and Nusa Dua are about 30 minutes apart. Sanur is more convenient for trips to Ubud or eastern Bali (Kanto Lampo waterfall, Pura Lempuyang temple). With only 6 days, your base location matters.