Explore Bali’s Best-Kept Secret: A Small Fishing Village Honored by UNWTO for Tourism Excellence
Bali, Indonesia, long celebrated for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, has recently added a new gem to its diverse tourism portfolio. This year, a quaint fishing village on the island has received international acclaim by being named one of the Best Tourism Villages 2025 by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This prestigious recognition highlights the village’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage, promoting responsible tourism, and fostering community-based travel, setting an inspiring example for destinations worldwide.
A New Star in Bali’s Tourism Scene
While Bali is globally renowned for bustling tourist hubs such as Ubud, Seminyak, and Kuta, this small fishing village offers a refreshing glimpse into the island’s more rustic and authentic side. It signals Bali’s commitment to expanding its tourism offerings beyond crowded beaches and urban centers. Nestled along the shore, the village uniquely blends traditional fishing practices with eco-friendly tourism initiatives, appealing to travelers seeking sustainable and immersive experiences.
This cozy village provides visitors an intimate opportunity to engage with Bali’s fishing communities, preserving a way of life that is becoming increasingly rare. Visitors can appreciate the local culture and deep-rooted history, relax on tranquil beaches, and enjoy serene waters far from the typical tourist hustle. It’s an ideal retreat for those yearning to connect with nature and the genuine rhythms of Balinese life.
Sustainability and Cultural Heritage at the Core
The UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages accolade recognizes destinations that champion sustainable cultural and nature tourism. In this Balinese fishing village, residents have fostered “win-win” tourism, striking a harmonious balance between environmental conservation and community welfare. Practices such as sustainable fishing methods, waste minimization, and other green principles have contributed to the village’s impressive reputation.
Tourists visiting the village can partake in culturally enriching activities like traditional fishing excursions, local performances, and scenic nature walks. These experiences offer profound insights into the village’s customs, rituals, and artisanal crafts, all of which have been carefully preserved over generations. The emphasis on cultural immersion enhances visitors’ appreciation of Bali’s ancient heritage in its purest form.
A key aspect of the village’s tourism strategy is its dedication to supporting the entire local value chain. Revenues generated from visitors flow back into the community, benefitting artisans selling handcrafted goods, local food producers, and service providers. This ecosystem nurtures a vibrant and authentic ambiance where tourists contribute meaningfully to the local economy while enjoying a memorable travel experience.
Embracing Bali’s Remote Beauty and Rich Nature
Beyond the familiar beaches and rice terraces, Bali’s fishing village celebrates the island’s paradisiacal islands, crystal-clear waters, and pristine, unspoiled beaches. The village boasts stunning shorelines, colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life, and gentle ocean currents ideal for snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will find ample opportunities to observe the island’s biodiversity.
The community’s eco-tourism initiatives also educate visitors about Bali’s biodiversity and conservation efforts, extending sustainable practices to tourists as well. This approach allows guests to enjoy the island’s natural beauty while actively supporting environmental preservation.
Convenient Access to Bali’s Iconic Attractions
Although this fishing village offers a peaceful and authentic experience, it remains conveniently accessible from Bali’s main transportation hubs. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a short journey away, making the village an excellent stop-over or base for exploring other parts of the island. Nearby cultural and historical sites such as the Tanah Lot Temple and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary enrich the visitor experience, offering a well-rounded exploration of Bali’s heritage.
Strategically located along Bali’s southern coastline, the village provides the perfect balance between tranquil rural charm and easy access to Bali’s vibrant tourist attractions—offering travelers the best of both worlds.
The Future of Tourism in Bali
The recognition by the UNWTO underscores the rising significance of small, community-focused destinations in global tourism. Bali’s fishing village demonstrates that even lesser-known locales can offer unique, authentic, and responsible tourism experiences, aligning with the growing demand for eco-conscious travel.
This accolade reinforces Bali’s leadership in sustainable tourism, revealing how blending natural beauty with cultural depth can transform local communities and visitor experiences positively. The village’s commitment to preserving heritage and environment exemplifies how tourism can be a powerful force for good.
Conclusion: A Model for Sustainable Tourism
This small coastal fishing village in Bali exemplifies sustainable tourism that actively conserves cultural traditions and supports community livelihoods while safeguarding the ecosystem. As one of the UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages of 2025, it offers travelers a compelling, eco-friendly glimpse of Bali away from the bustling tourist hotspots.
Representing a new wave of tourism dedicated to preserving Bali’s treasures for future generations, this village stands as a beacon of responsible travel—inviting visitors to experience the island’s authentic charm in harmony with nature and culture.
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