A perfect Sunday at Single Fin
Single Fin Sunday is the institution that has outlasted every other party in Bali. Started in 2010 as a casual surfers’ sundowner, it’s now booked out three weeks in advance, but the energy is still the same. Live DJ on the rooftop, sun setting over the Uluwatu break, a crowd that’s 60% expat 40% travellers. Here’s how to do it right.
Book ahead, but not the way you think
The “main floor” tables are reservation-only and book out weeks ahead. Don’t bother. The atmosphere is better at the standing-room bar areas. Walk in by 3pm, grab a spot on the lower-rear deck near the railing, and stay.
What time to arrive
3pm: if you want a sit-down lunch first. Order the burger. 4pm: for the sunset crowd. Sun starts dropping around 5:45. 5:30pm: if you’re coming straight from the villa just for the show. You’ll stand, but you’ll have a perfect view.
After 8pm the energy shifts from sundown to nightclub. The DJ ramps up. The crowd thickens. If you want to dance, this is your moment. If you want to talk, head out and go to dinner.
What to drink
The cocktails are good and overpriced (180,000 IDR for a margarita). The local Bintang is fine and a third of the price. Our move: one cocktail at sunset, then beer for the rest of the night.
What to eat
Don’t eat dinner at Single Fin if you can help it. It’s the only weak link. Eat beforehand at Warung Local or after at our recommendations in the Bingin food guide. The Single Fin kitchen is fine for snacks but you’re paying tourist prices.
Getting home
Don’t drive your scooter home from Single Fin. By 9pm the road is busy with people whose judgment has been compromised by half a bottle of arak. Our driver Pak Nyoman does an unofficial Sunday-night ferry service for villa guests, flat rate 200,000 IDR back to the villa, including the 30-minute wait while you finish the last beer. Book him at breakfast or text us.
Off-Sunday alternatives
If you’re in Bali during the week and want the same energy:
- Tuesday: Ulu Cliffhouse, smaller crowd, better sunset cocktails
- Thursday: Savaya in Uluwatu, a more polished version
- Friday: El Kabron, the cliffside Spanish restaurant, book the early seating
Single Fin Sunday is the one everyone talks about. The other six nights have their own thing going.