Best Cafes in Uluwatu: Your Guide to Good Brews, Chill Vibes & Ocean Views

Uluwatu’s not just for surfers and sunset chasers. Sure, the cliffs and waves get most of the attention, but in between those beach days, there’s a whole other scene brewing, literally. The cafe culture here has quietly exploded over the last few years, with spots that can easily rival coffee capitals like Melbourne or Sydney.

And we’re not talking about a quick instant coffee from a beach shack. Nope. This is full-on best cafes in Uluwatu territory, from cold brews that could wake up a hibernating bear to smoothie bowls that make you want to photograph them before eating.

Whether you’re here for the best coffee Uluwatu can serve, hunting for chill Uluwatu cafes and restaurants, or trying to find that one best coffee shop Uluwatu locals whisper about, this list has you sorted. And if you want to hit them all without wasting a single sunrise, Travel Junky can map out a cafe-hopping route that’s low on stress and high on caffeine.

1. Drifter Surf Shop & Cafe - Coffee Meets Surf Culture

Walk into Drifter and it’s like stepping into a surf documentary… with better lighting and a coffee machine humming in the corner. Surfboards line the walls, the air smells faintly of wax and espresso, and there’s always someone in flip-flops talking waves.

Their cold brew is legit extraordinary. It’s crisp, smooth, and there’s not a hint of bitterness. If you’re into almond milk, theirs somehow tastes creamier than regular.

Why it works: You can fuel up here before a surf or just sink into one of their wooden chairs with your laptop and a flat white. It’s a spot that’s more than just a caffeine fix. It's a whole mood.

2. The Loft Uluwatu - Pretty Plates, Proper Coffee

The Loft is bright, airy and full of good vibes. Colorful murals, hanging plants, and plenty of natural light make it the kind of place you want to linger. It’s usually buzzing with a mix of travelers and locals, each doing their own thing.

The smoothie bowls are stacked high with fresh dragon fruit and the quinoa salad comes with a zesty citrus dressing. Coffee is smooth and well balanced, whether you’re a flat white fan or a long black loyalist.

Why it works: It’s equal parts Instagram-worthy and genuinely delicious.

3. Suka Espresso - Coffee That Hits Different

Step into Suka and you’ll catch the hiss of the espresso machine, the smell of fresh beans, and the chatter of surfers swapping wave stories. The setup is bright and breezy, with a relaxed Bali meets coastal vibe.

Their flat white is silky and balanced, and the breakfast burrito stuffed with eggs, beans and salsa is a quiet hero on the menu.

Why it works: Suka nails both flavor and atmosphere. 

4. BGS Bali - Surf, Shop, Sip

BGS feels like the living room of Uluwatu’s surf scene. Boards on the walls, a chilled playlist, and the smell of espresso mixing with sea air set the tone.

Their almond milk latte is a crowd favorite, and the banana bread is just the right amount of sweet. Grab both to go and you’re set for the day.

Why it works: It’s more than coffee, it’s a delicious community. 

5. Ours Bali – Minimalist Comfort

Ours is calm and uncluttered, with pale wood, clean lines, and just enough greenery to soften the space. It’s a quiet that’s kind of inviting. The cappuccino here is consistently smooth, and the grilled chicken wrap with fresh herbs is light but filling.

Why it works: A perfect spot to slow down without losing your Bali momentum. 

6. Nourish Cafe - Healthy Without the Bland

Nourish greets you with the smell of fresh herbs, baked bread and brewing coffee. Sunlight pours through big windows, bouncing off jars of granola and bottles of kombucha.

Their cold brew is crisp and clean, and the zucchini fritters with poached eggs are surprisingly addictive.

Why it works: It’s proof healthy food can still be exciting and yummy. 

7. Bukit Cafe - Breakfast All Day

Bukit Cafe is all about easygoing comfort. Fans spin lazily overhead, and the smell of pancakes and espresso fills the air. The eggs benedict here comes on fluffy English muffins and their fresh mango smoothie is a must try.

Why it works: When you want breakfast that doesn’t mess around, is reliable for your taste buds, then this is it. 

8. Gooseberry Cafe - Poolside Brunch Goals

Gooseberry has that sleek meets cozy balance. Inside, it’s modern and stylish; out back, a pool glitters in the sunlight. Their flat white is creamy, and the brioche French toast with caramelized bananas is a showstopper.

Why it works: It’s like a mini escape in the middle of Uluwatu. You’ll love it for brunches that feel like a treat.

9. Ulu Garden - Chill Courtyard Vibes

Ulu Garden is an open-air courtyard shaded by leafy trees, with mismatched chairs and a relaxed hum of chatter.

Coffee is bold and reliable, fresh juices are bright and refreshing, and the grilled fish tacos are a solid win.

Why it works: Versatile and welcoming, it’s as good for a quick coffee as it is for an evening hang. 

10. Mana Uluwatu - Coffee With an Ocean View

At Mana, the ocean is part of the experience. The open-air design means waves are your background soundtrack.

Espresso is rich, iced coffee is refreshing, and the tropical fruit platter is as colorful as it is fresh.

Why it works: Coffee plus surf views? Now that’s what we call a winning combo. Travel Junky calls it the ultimate “caffeine with a view” spot.

Why Uluwatu’s Cafes Hit Different

It’s the mix, honestly. On one street, you’ve got a barefoot surf shack serving espresso that could pass in Italy. Around the corner, there’s a sleek Scandinavian-style cafe with marble counters and latte art so perfect you hesitate to sip it.

That’s the thing about Uluwatu, its cafes aren’t just about caffeine. Each one blends Bali’s laid back charm with its own little twist, whether it’s ocean views, surf culture, or food that surprises you. A coffee here isn’t just a drink; it’s a snapshot of the place, the people and the pace of life

Uluwatu Cafe-Hopping Tips

• Go early - mornings here are golden, both for light and smaller crowds.
• Cash helps - a few small cafes still don’t take cards.
• Check Instagram - menus and open hours can change without warning.
• Balance it out - coffee’s great, but Bali heat means you’ll want water, too.

The Wrap-Up

If you came to Uluwatu for the waves, you’ll probably stay for the coffee. The best cafes in Uluwatu aren’t just about caffeine, they’re about atmosphere, community and slowing down enough to enjoy both.

From best coffee Uluwatu contenders like Suka Espresso to cozy Uluwatu cafes and restaurants like Ulu Garden, there’s a spot for every mood. And if you don’t feel like figuring it out yourself, Travel Junky can line up a coffee trail so all you have to do is show up and sip.

Because honestly? Life’s too short for bad coffee.