The Indonesian province of Bali is taking decisive action to reclaim its coastline for the public, with new legislation set to ban private beaches.
Legislation to Protect Public Access
On 17 November 2025, Governor I Wayan Kostor submitted draft legislation designed to ensure all beaches remain accessible to everyone. This move addresses growing frustration over commercial developments, where hotel and villa operators have been widely criticised for blocking public pathways to the shore.
These restrictions have had a significant impact on local communities, preventing residents from performing important religious ceremonies and using these traditional social spaces. The proposed regulation aims to restore Bali's beaches to their original purpose and directly counter the perception that developers can own the shoreline.
Reinforcing State Property Laws
The Balinese government has announced its intention to debate and pass this legislation swiftly, aiming for it to become law before the end of 2025. This new rule will reinforce an existing 2016 Presidential Regulation that officially designates all beaches as public state property.
By moving ahead with banning private beaches, authorities are sending a clear message that the coastline belongs to the people, not private enterprise. This significant policy shift seeks to balance tourism development with the rights and cultural practices of local Balinese communities.
