Bali Demolishes Dozens of Illegal Beachfront Businesses in Bingin

Authorities have begun demolishing beachfront homes and restaurants in a popular tourist area of Bali after over 40 structures were declared illegal.

The demolition of unauthorized buildings at Bingin Beach in Uluwatu — a well-known destination for Australian and international surfers — began on Monday, following government orders.

Due to the buildings being located on steep cliffs, heavy machinery could not be used. Instead, local workers, assisted by police, manually dismantled tables, doors, and other parts of the structures. The usual sounds of crashing waves and lively beach bars were replaced by the cries of locals trying desperately to save their businesses.

Surrounded by officials and media, Bali Governor I Wayan Koster announced that nearly 50 illegal buildings would be taken down as part of the crackdown.

“The tourism buildings here are illegal — period,” said Governor Koster.
 “We cannot allow this to continue. If we don’t stop it, Bali will suffer.”

Shocked employees, business owners, residents, and tourists gathered at the site — many in tears, some shouting in protest. One Balinese woman yelled, “This is how the bureaucrats work. They’ve destroyed our livelihoods.”

Governor: None of the Buildings Had Permits

The demolitions come amid growing concerns about unregulated development in Bali, fueled by a rapid increase in tourism. Tourist numbers are expected to reach pre-pandemic levels in 2025, with more than 6.3 million international visitors projected.

Uluwatu has long been a favorite destination for its surf spots, scenic white sand beaches, and cliffside views. In recent years, the area has seen a boom in development — cafes, restaurants, and villas — many of which are reportedly built without official permits.

According to local authorities, the buildings in question violated zoning regulations and were not in harmony with traditional Balinese principles of architecture, which emphasize a balance between nature, culture, and spirituality.

The government had previously ordered business owners to voluntarily dismantle their illegal structures, but when most failed to comply, officials moved in with sledgehammers.

“There’s been a clear violation of the regional spatial planning regulations,” said Governor Koster.
 “This is a designated green-belt area. None of the buildings have legal permits.”

As demolition crews reached the Morabito Art Cliff Villa, the villa’s manager, Komang Agus, expressed frustration:

“One thousand people are losing their jobs at Bingin Beach today,” he said.
 “There’s no justice. Development projects continue elsewhere — why are we the ones being targeted?”

Locals Say Livelihoods and Tourism Are at Risk

Locals and business owners fear the land is being cleared for larger development projects. On the day of the demolitions, protesters held signs reading: “Save Bingin, Stop the Demolition. Bingin Is Our Home — Not for Sale!”

Komang Ayu, the manager of a restaurant that was demolished, said she didn’t know how she would support her family.

“I have two young children, a husband, and aging parents to take care of,” she said.
 “There are rumors Bingin will be rebuilt bigger — but will we still have jobs?”

Business owners said they were given little opportunity to negotiate or appeal, despite some businesses operating for decades. I Wayan Salam Oka Suadnyana, who owns one of the affected businesses, said his mother started the business in the 1980s.

“I have an old photo of her with the kiosk she built when I was five years old,” he said.
 “We know the land belongs to the government and we don’t have land titles — but we helped grow tourism here.”
 “Now the government wants to take it all back? We just want a fair solution. We pay taxes every month.”

Aldo Rama, manager of the villas and restaurant, said about 30 of his staff are now unemployed.

“We’ve contributed a lot to this beach and the local economy. We pay our taxes,” he said.
 “This affects Bali’s image — especially for tourists who love Bingin.”

Business Owners Take Legal Action

Some business owners have now launched legal action to protect their properties. Meanwhile, Australian tourists at the beach expressed sadness over the events.

“It’s heartbreaking to see the locals so upset,” said one Australian surfer.
 “Development in Bali is happening so fast, and this shows how complicated the process can be.”

Another Australian tourist said the demolitions would be remembered as a significant moment in Bali’s history.

Governor Koster has promised further enforcement measures.

“We are preparing to send audit teams to inspect all tourism licenses across Bali,” he said.
 “Any violations will be dealt with firmly — through legal channels, of course.”

Source : https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-22/bali-crackdown-on-bingin-beach-tourist-villas-restaurants/105558256