Bali is home to many gems, tropical locations, and cultural experiences. However, in recent years, as tourism explodes, and commercial investors see opportunities to make money, many of these ‘local treasures’ are being overrun and destroyed. The latest victim to this commercial drive is the iconic surfer hotspot, Bingin Beach. Situated in the south of Bali in the beautiful Uluwatu, only 10 years ago this was much less known, and a surfer haven. In recent years, co-insiding with Uluwatu’s popularity (and for good reason, Uluwatu is beautiful), Bingin Beach has become more popular. We visited Uluwatu a few years back (see our detailed Uluwatu guide here) and loved the relaxed vibe, the lack of extreme commercialism, and little beaches like Bingin Beach. However, in July this sadly changed irreversibly (see detailed info and news updates below).
News updates about Bingin Beach – August 2025..
In July–August 2025, authorities in Bali began demolishing 40–48 structures at Bingin Beach (Pecatu, South Kuta)—including family-run warungs, homestays, villas and small hotels—after ruling they were built without proper permits on state-owned coastal land and in breach of spatial-planning rules; the operation formally started on 21 July 2025 under the Badung Regency and provincial government’s enforcement drive (source: ABC, The Bali Media, The Bali Sun, Social Expat). The crackdown has displaced long-standing local businesses and staff and, according to residents, risks erasing the surf break’s community character and cultural heritage that developed over decades; images and on-the-ground reporting documented emotional scenes as demolitions proceeded and global surfers voiced concern (source: The Guardian, News.com.au). Some affected owners and their lawyers have mounted legal challenges at the Denpasar State Administrative Court (PTUN), arguing the clearances were premature while cases were pending and notices contested (source: Bali Expat, Stab Mag). Officials have also said a portion of the targeted enterprises involved foreign backers using local nominees, which they cite as part of the rationale for enforcement (source: The Bali Times). While rumors and public speculation suggest the cleared cliffside may attract major investors for a large beach club or resort development, authorities have not confirmed any such projects; these claims remain unverified, though widely discussed in surf and local media (source: surfernews.com.au). Have you heard about this? If so, let us know what you think below!
Sadly, this isn’t the first time, and won’t be the last time this happens in Bali (and Indonesia). Another example of commercialism ruining the natural beauty is at the famous Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida. Known for the striking white sound, stunning views, and the 100s of narrow steps winding down to the beach, this beach has become a popular day trip destination. However, recently reports have emerged that this beach is subject to plans for an elevator down to the beach. This is not only a horrible ‘eye-sore’ catered to a certain type of tourist, it damages the natural environment, local businesses, and feeds into the growing over commercialism of Bali & Indonesia. Sadly, if things like this continue to happen, it may push us from visiting Bali and have us seeking out more sustainable, less overrun and overdeveloped locations in Asia and beyond.
Enjoying our free guides & travel advice? Subscribe to our blog!
Jump your email into the list below. We won’t spam you! It’ll just keep you updated whenever we post another travel-related adventure, memory or tid-bid!
