Bali's beaches are facing a crisis, and the solution could change everything. The island paradise, famed for its stunning shorelines, is grappling with a growing problem: private development is increasingly blocking locals and tourists from accessing the very beaches that make Bali so iconic. This is a story of conflict, culture, and the fight for public space.
Governor I Wayan Koster is stepping in. On November 17, he proposed a draft regulation to the Bali Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) focused on protecting beaches and shorelines. The core aim? To ensure that everyone, not just those with deep pockets, can enjoy Bali's natural beauty.
Why is this happening? Governor Koster highlights the crucial role beaches play in Balinese life. They're not just for sunbathing; they're vital for religious rituals, social gatherings, and economic activities. But here's where it gets controversial: commercial development is squeezing public access.
"Access to the beach for Segara Kerthi or Pakelem ceremonies is becoming increasingly limited," Koster stated. He also mentioned that some businesses are preventing residents from practicing their religious customs on the shore. These ceremonies, like the Balinese Hindu ritual of Segara Kerthi (honoring and purifying the sea) and Pakelem (offering items to seek blessings), are fundamental to Balinese culture.
So, what's the plan? The new regulation aims to "restore Bali’s beaches to their original purpose," stopping tourism operators from imposing unfair restrictions. Koster's words are strong: "It’s as if those who build hotels or villas think they own the beach and the sea." He's right; they only own the land near the shore, not the beach itself.
And this is the part most people miss: The Bali administration and the DPRD are pushing to pass this regulation before the end of 2025. This is a race against time to protect public access. The 2016 Presidential Regulation already states beaches (defined as land extending at least 100m inland from the high tide line) are public spaces, belonging to the state, and cannot be privatized.
But the reality on the ground tells a different story. Many beachside hotels and villas, particularly in popular tourist areas, have acted as if they own the beaches, restricting access to non-customers. Over the years, there have been numerous instances of tourists being turned away.
Consider these examples:
- In 2023, a local tourist was asked to leave Geger Beach in Nusa Dua by a hotel security guard, who claimed to need to maintain the "view" for hotel guests.
- In 2021, a Balinese resident was prevented from sitting on a beach behind a hotel in Sanur.
- In 2019, a heated argument erupted in Temukus village after tourists renting a villa prohibited locals from swimming.
Commercial development has also disrupted religious ceremonies. In October 2024, Finns Beach Club faced criticism for hosting a fireworks event during a ceremony at Berawa Beach. Despite requests to postpone, the event went ahead, sparking outrage.
What do you think? Is it fair for businesses to restrict access to public beaches? Do you believe the proposed regulation is a necessary step? Share your thoughts in the comments below – let's discuss!
