Forget crowded beach clubs—Bali's true aquatic gems lie in jungle valleys and volcanic landscapes, where untouched waters offer both spiritual significance and a refreshing escape. From moss-draped gorges with blue pools to sacred springs where locals perform purification rituals, these hidden spots reveal Bali’s living water culture. You won’t find them geotagged on influencer feeds; their remoteness keeps them pristine, authentic, and unforgettable.

Tegal Wangi Sacred Pools
Jimbaran

Tegal Wangi Sacred Pools

Carved by millennia of tidal action into the limestone cliffs of Bali's southern peninsula, these natural infinity pools sit perched between earth and ocean in perfect isolation. At high tide, waves crash dramatically against the outer rock barrier while leaving the inner pools undisturbed—creating a breathtaking juxtaposition of wild sea and tranquil swimming spots. Ancient Balinese water temples once dotted this coastline, and small stone shrines still mark spots where priests performed purification rituals.

Unlike the crowded beaches just kilometers away, Tegal Wangi remains largely overlooked, thanks to an unmarked access path that winds steeply down the cliff face. The pools vary in size and depth, with some reaching over two meters deep at high tide—perfect for proper swimming rather than mere wading. The surrounding rock platforms, polished smooth by centuries of wave action, provide natural sunbathing terraces between dips.

Why we rate it
These pools offer the perfect synthesis of wild ocean views and protected swimming in what feels like nature's own infinity pools, each with its unique character and depth.
Best Time To Visit
Two hours before low tide through one hour after (check local tide tables) for the ideal balance of water clarity and pool depth.
Pro Tip
Safety Tip: The rock surfaces become extremely slippery when wet—wear shoes with good grip until you reach your swimming spot, and never swim alone during rough sea conditions.
How To Get There
To get to
Jimbaran
Book a private car
or
Tegal Wangi Sacred Pools
Bangli

Banyu Wana Amertha Pools

Discovered only in the last decade by local guides, this remote system of tiered pools and waterfalls remains one of North Bali's best-kept secrets. The site's name translates to "Beautiful Forest Water," aptly describing the series of cascades that tumble through pristine jungle before collecting in deep, circular pools of remarkable clarity. What distinguishes this swimming spot is its remarkable isolation and untouched character. The surrounding forest harbors ancient trees draped with rare orchids. The middle pool—a perfect circle carved by centuries of water action—reaches depths of three meters, ideal for swimming beneath the small waterfall that feeds it.

Why we rate it
This canyon offers the most immersive jungle swimming experience on the island, where you'll float through a cathedral-like space of stone, water, and filtered emerald light.
Best Time To Visit
Early morning (before 10 AM) to experience mystical light rays penetrating the canyon and to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in the highlands.
Pro Tip
Insider Tip: A 20-minute walk upstream beyond the main pools leads to a rarely visited waterfall grotto where locals believe wishes made under the cascade are especially powerful.
How To Get There
To get to
Bangli
Book a private car
or
Weekday mornings to ensure solitude; visit during the dry season (May-September) when the water color is most vibrant and flow is manageable.

These pools offer the most pristine wild swimming in Bali, with water clarity unmatched anywhere else on the island due to the natural filtration through volcanic stone.

Why we rate it
Local Tip: The caretaker family that maintains the small access path accepts donations rather than fixed fees—their homemade ginger tea offered to swimmers is worth double whatever you'd typically pay.
Best Time To Visit
Pro Tip
How To Get There
To get to
Weekday mornings to ensure solitude; visit during the dry season (May-September) when the water color is most vibrant and flow is manageable.
Book a private car
or
Karangasem
Cultural Tip: Small offerings (canang sari) are often placed near the water's edge—always leave these undisturbed and enter the water at a different point as a sign of respect.

Karangasem

Early morning (6-8 AM) when the water clarity is most remarkable and before local farmers begin their daily work in adjacent fields.

Why we rate it
Best Time To Visit
Pro Tip
Nungnung Jungle Pool
How To Get There
To get to
Jimbaran
Book a private car
or
Nungnung Jungle Pool

Why we rate it
Best Time To Visit
Pro Tip
How To Get There
To get to
Jimbaran
Book a private car
or