The once-sleepy Batu Belig Beach in Bali is undergoing a dramatic transformation that's changing the character of this beloved expat hideaway. What was previously a quiet cul-de-sac offering a glimpse of 1990s Bali is now evolving into a sophisticated destination with new dining venues and major development projects.
The Old Batu Belig: A Fading Memory
For years, Batu Belig served as a charming escape from Bali's busier tourist areas. Located along a 2km road connecting the bustling precincts of Canggu and Seminyak, the beach itself remained surprisingly undeveloped. Visitors could still rent sunbeds and umbrellas for just a few dollars and enjoy cheap fried calamari and ice-cold beers from simple wooden shacks.
The most popular venue was 707 Beachberm, particularly on Sunday afternoons when Bali's top resident DJ Shammui would perform as the sun set over the ocean. The atmosphere was relaxed and affordable, making it a favourite among long-term visitors and expats seeking an authentic Balinese experience without the crowds.
The Redevelopment Begins
Change arrived when local authorities announced what they described as a "mega project" for the area. This redevelopment meant the end for several established businesses, including the popular Italian brasserie Il Lido, which featured distinctive baby-blue decor reminiscent of Greek island architecture.
The sandy access road has been replaced with proper tarmac, and construction is well underway on Elle, a massive new 170-room hotel, beach club and entertainment complex. While 707 Beachberm surprisingly managed to survive the redevelopment, the landscape is undeniably changing.
New Dining Experiences Emerge
Among the new establishments making their mark is Nui da Mano, a Polynesian-style restaurant that brings a fresh culinary concept to the beachfront. The venue features replicas of the famous Maoi statues from Easter Island and offers all tables ocean views with comfortable spacing.
The menu includes Tahitian specialities like poisson cru - raw fish marinated in coconut milk and citrus juice - though regular visitors to Polynesia might note the presentation differs from traditional versions. The Fijian lamb curry masala has already earned rave reviews, with some patrons claiming it surpasses curries they've enjoyed in India.
While Batu Belig will likely become unrecognisable when Elle opens in approximately a year, bringing an influx of cashed-up tourists, it currently maintains a more relaxed atmosphere than the increasingly crowded beaches of Seminyak and Canggu. The transformation represents both progress and the gradual fading of another piece of "old Bali" that many long-term visitors have come to cherish.
