Bali Advances with Legislation to Ban Private Beaches and Protect Public Access
Bali, Indonesia – The Balinese government is taking decisive steps to ensure that all beaches on the island remain open and accessible to the public, following growing concerns over private commercial developments restricting access to these important coastal areas. On November 17, 2025, Bali’s Governor I Wayan Koster submitted draft legislation aimed at protecting beaches and shorelines to the Bali Regional Legislative Council (DPRD).
The proposed regulation comes in response to complaints that some hotels and villa operators have been blocking public access to beaches, which serve not only as recreational spaces but also hold significant cultural and religious importance for local communities. Governor Koster emphasized that Bali’s beaches are central gathering places for religious ceremonies such as Segara Kerthi and Pakelem, activities that are increasingly being hindered by restricted access.
“Access to the beach for Segara Kerthi or Pakelem ceremonies is becoming increasingly limited,” Governor Koster commented. “Some hotel and villa operators are blocking public access, prohibiting residents from performing religious activities or carrying out important cultural ceremonies on the shoreline.”
The governor expressed concern that commercial enterprises acting as if they "own the beach and the sea" threaten public rights. He clarified that while these operators may own land near the shore, the beaches and ocean themselves are public property. The new legislation aims to restore the beaches to their original public use and prevent illegal restrictions imposed by tourist facilities.
Legal Framework and Enforcement Challenges
Under a 2016 Presidential Regulation on shoreline boundaries, the area defined as the beach – extending at least 100 meters inland from the highest tide line – is designated as state property and cannot be privatized. Despite this clear legal framework, numerous luxury hotels and private villas across Bali’s prime tourist destinations have restricted local residents’ and visitors’ access to adjacent beaches.
Reports indicate frequent confrontations where both locals and tourists have been removed from beaches by hotel staff for alleged trespassing, spotlighting enforcement gaps that the government aims to resolve with the new law.
Governor Koster has indicated that the Bali government intends to fast-track debates around the legislation with the goal of its passage before the end of 2025, reflecting the urgency of preserving public rights to these environmentally and culturally vital areas.
Balancing Tourism Development and Cultural Preservation
Bali is internationally renowned for its beautiful beaches, which are a key attraction for millions of tourists annually. However, the island’s rapid commercial development has raised challenges in balancing the economic benefits of tourism with protections for local culture and environment.
Local communities rely on beach access not only for religious ceremonies but also for social interaction and traditional livelihoods. The new regulatory effort signals a commitment from Balinese authorities to uphold these values while managing tourism development responsibly.
As Bali moves forward with this significant policy, stakeholders from government, tourism, and local communities will be watching closely to ensure public access rights are respected and Bali’s beaches remain vibrant, shared spaces for everyone.
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