The Padang Galak to Mertasari shoreline walk follows the black-sand coast of eastern Denpasar in Bali, Indonesia, southward from Pantai Padang Galak in Kesiman Kertalangu toward Mertasari Beach in Sanur. The distance is about three kilometres one way and takes one to one and a half hours. Access is by Grab or Gojek to Pantai Padang Galak, about 20 minutes from central Denpasar, and a return ride can be arranged from Mertasari or Sanur because the route is linear. There is no permit and no entrance fee, though a small parking fee applies for scooters and cars. The walk is flat on sand at sea level, so elevation gain is negligible, but the soft surface makes progress slower than on a paved path. The beach is dark volcanic sand, with firmer ground near the waterline at low tide, and some sections have rocky patches, drainage channels or debris washed up after storms. Shade is minimal, so a hat, sunscreen and water are essential, and sunrise is the most comfortable start time. Landmarks include fishing boats, the open Bali Sea horizon, local beach warungs near Padang Galak and, on clear mornings, views toward Nusa Penida and Mount Agung. Water and snacks are available at warungs at the start and near Sanur, but not along the quieter middle stretch. Walkers should be prepared for varying conditions: surf and currents on this coast can be strong, so swimming is generally not advised. Sandals that can get wet and a plastic bag for wet items are the main gear. The route is a quieter alternative to Sanur's promenade, suited to visitors who want a longer, more natural stretch of shoreline.
| Distance | About 3 km one way along the black-sand shore |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1-1.5 hours one way |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Grab or Gojek to Pantai Padang Galak (about 20 minutes from central Denpasar) |
| Best season | Dry season; sunrise for light and cooler air |
| Address | Pantai Padang Galak, Jl. Padang Galak, Kesiman Kertalangu, Denpasar Timur, Denpasar 80237 |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Kesiman, East Denpasar
What to bring
Sandals, sunscreen, water, a plastic bag for wet items
Location
Pantai Padang Galak, Jl. Padang Galak, Kesiman Kertalangu, Denpasar Timur, Denpasar 80237
-8.6620, 115.2680 View on map
Highlights
- Walk a stretch of black volcanic sand on Denpasar's eastern coast
- Watch fishing boats and sunrise over the Bali Sea
- Enjoy quieter shoreline than the busier Sanur promenade
- Look for views toward Nusa Penida and Mount Agung on clear mornings
Tips for visiting
- Start at sunrise for cooler air and good light; there is little shade.
- Walk near the waterline where the sand is firmer, at low tide if possible.
- Avoid swimming; surf and currents can be strong on this coast.
- Carry water, since shops are limited along the middle stretch.
- Arrange the return ride by app from Mertasari or Sanur.
When to visit
The dry season from May to September is best, with a sunrise start for cooler air and clearer views. Midday is hot and shadeless.
Accessibility
The soft sand, drainage channels and uneven shoreline make this walk unsuitable for wheelchairs and difficult for strollers. Short paved sections near beach access points are flatter.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Padang Galak to Mertasari walk?
It is about three kilometres one way and takes one to one and a half hours on sand.
Is there a fee?
The beach is free. A small parking fee applies for scooters or cars at Padang Galak.
Is it safe to swim?
Swimming is generally not advised because of surf and currents on this open stretch. Calmer water is found in Sanur's reef-protected lagoon.
What is the beach like?
The sand is dark volcanic grey-black, with some debris and rocky patches. Firm sand near the waterline is easiest to walk on.