Beware, Travelers: Why You Should Never Swim at Bali Beaches

① Bali’s Iconic Spot, Kelingking Beach

Indonesia’s Bali island, a captivating vacation destination, has captured global adoration. With its supernatural blue seas, lush tropical landscapes, and dazzling temples, Bali undeniably offers memorable vistas. Visitors often embark on adventures, capturing stunning landscapes with their cameras.

While the promise of breathtaking views and picturesque selfies is guaranteed, it’s crucial to recognize the potential dangers concealed within these captivating photos. One such tragic site in Bali is ‘Kelingking Beach.’

Located in Nusa Penida, Kelingking Beach overwhelms visitors with its stunning scenery. Despite its breathtaking views, it conceals a terrifying reason why tourists should avoid swimming here.

② The Hidden Danger Beneath the Waves

In recent times, this beach has become a site of severe injuries and even fatalities. This is due to numerous tourists arriving without comprehending the inherent dangers of this landscape. Local media reports indicate that since January 2023, swimming has been prohibited here to prevent unsuspecting tourists from falling prey to potentially dangerous currents and tides.

Even the nearby hiking trails pose significant risks to those attempting them. Despite the beach still inviting travelers for exploration, it’s now a place where one should steer clear of the water.

Spending time in Bali means soaking up the sun on perfect beaches akin to paintings. Many visitors swim in the beautiful surrounding sea without considering the potential threat of unseen currents and tides. This overlooked risk is prevalent at many beaches worldwide, particularly at Kelingking Beach, where it can lead to dire consequences.

Nestled between high cliffs, Kelingking Beach offers breathtaking views. However, its landscape harbors extreme dangers due to the potential for strong currents and high waves. The currents beneath the sparkling blue surface can swiftly sweep away the sand under a swimmer’s feet, dragging them into the vast ocean within seconds.

③ Waves More Powerful Than Imagined

The search and rescue team at Nusa Penida has reported numerous incidents where visitors suffered due to strong currents and tides. In January 2023, a 27-year-old French tourist was swept out to sea at Kelingking Beach but was successfully rescued, albeit with a severe pelvic fracture.

In the same month, a Russian woman visiting Kelingking Beach suffered a shoulder fracture after being struck by a powerful wave. In June 2023, two tourists lost their lives after being swept out to sea while taking selfies in the water.

Even if visitors are adept at handling currents, Kelingking Beach remains perilous. Australian media reported an incident in July 2023 where a solid and unexpected wave swept away a British teenager. The impact dislocated the boy’s leg, trapping him underwater with an immobilizing injury. Fortunately, local rescue teams managed to extricate him from the water.

Descending from the cliff top to the beach poses unforeseen dangers for visitors. The hiking trail to the water’s edge comprises irregular stairs along steep terrain. Those opting for this journey will find minimal handrails and footholds. Even with proper hiking gear, the path becomes even riskier when numerous tourists attempt to traverse the stairs simultaneously. Factor in rain or snow, and the situation can quickly escalate.