Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most iconic sea temples in Bali and a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Bali. Built on a massive offshore rock and surrounded by waves, it offers two completely different views: during low tide, you can walk to the base of the temple; during high tide, it appears to float on the ocean.
This guide covers transportation options, the best time to visit, sunset photo spots, and useful insider tips. Even if it’s your first visit, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to capture the best photos!
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How to Get to Tanah Lot Temple
Private Car Charter
The easiest and most convenient way to visit Tanah Lot is by booking a private car charter. The driver will wait for you onsite, so you won’t need to worry about finding a ride back—especially after sunset when traffic gets chaotic. A full-day charter usually costs around IDR 600,000–700,000 (depending on the duration). For detailed transportation info, check out my Bali transportation guide.
👉 Check Bali private car charter prices: KKday｜Klook
Scooter Rental
Scooter rental is very popular in Bali, and riding to Tanah Lot is definitely possible. It’s affordable and the route is straightforward. Just keep in mind that the sun is strong during the day, and traffic can be heavy—so if you’re not confident in riding a scooter, consider other options.
Taking Grab or Gojek
You can take Grab/Gojek to Tanah Lot, but getting a ride back may be difficult. Also, ride-hailing drivers are not allowed to enter the main parking area. You’ll need to walk out to a designated pickup point. (When I visited, my driver came inside by mistake 😅—he told me to say he’s a friend if police asked, since Grab drivers are restricted in this zone.)
Estimated Travel Time from Popular Areas
Travel time varies depending on traffic and time of day. Here are the average estimates:
| Departure Point | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Kuta | 45–60 minutes |
| Seminyak | 40–50 minutes |
| Canggu | About 30 minutes (closest) |
| Ubud | 60–75 minutes |
Highlights of Tanah Lot Temple
The Iconic Sea Temple
The most magical part of Bali Tanah Lot is the temple standing on a massive offshore rock. You can only walk to the base during low tide, following a rocky path to capture dramatic photos. Visitors cannot enter the temple itself—it is reserved for local priests. You can walk only to the lower platform area to admire the exterior up close.
On the rock platform, local staff offer a simple blessing ritual (small donation required). They place flowers, sprinkle holy water, and mark your forehead with rice—a meaningful cultural experience unique to Tanah Lot.
During high tide, the entire pathway is submerged, and the temple becomes a “floating island,” offering a completely different and equally breathtaking view.
Cliffside Viewpoints & Rock Formations
Apart from the main temple, the area features several cliff-top paths and natural rock platforms where you can overlook the coastline. The crashing waves make for dramatic scenery and beautiful photo spots.
Sunset at Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one of the best sunset spots in Bali. The golden hour typically happens between 17:30–18:30. If you visit around this time, don’t miss the magical colors over the sea and temple silhouette.
Sea Snake Cave
Many travelers don’t know there’s a “Sea Snake Cave” next to the temple. Inside lives a sacred sea snake believed to protect the area. The cave is managed by local staff and requires an additional fee (around IDR 30,000–50,000). You can see the sea snake up close, and some believe touching it brings good luck (totally optional 🤣).
Check the Tide Before You Visit!
This is extremely important! Your experience at Tanah Lot largely depends on the tide. You can only approach the base of the temple during low tide. Since the tide changes daily, always check the schedule before planning your visit.
Before your visit, search for:
✔ “Bali Tanah Lot tide chart”
Entrance Fee, Opening Hours & Parking
Latest Entrance Fee
・Adults: ~IDR 75,000
・Children: ~IDR 40,000
Opening Hours
・Daily 07:00–19:00
*You can stay past sunset, but ticket sales end in the evening.
Parking Fees
・Car: ~IDR 5,000
・Motorbike: ~IDR 3,000
Tanah Lot is one of the most iconic coastal views in Bali. Whether you’re here for photos, sunset watching, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze, it’s absolutely worth a visit. Just remember that tides completely affect the experience—be sure to check the tide schedule before deciding when to go.
Check some hot tours in Bali：
📌 Bali Custom Private Tour: KKday｜Klook
📌 Mount Batur Sunrise 4WD Jeep Tour: KKday｜Klook
📌 Bali Safari Park Tickets: KKday｜Klook
📌 Nusa Lembongan & Manta Bay Snorkeling: KKday｜Klook
📌 Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance Show Tickets: KKday｜Klook
📌 Nusa Penida Adventure Cruise: KKday
📌 Bali Airport SIM Card/eSIM Pickup: KKday｜Holafly
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