Bali scams: Dreamland Beach in Uluwatu flagged by local authorities as tourists rinsed by fake entry fees
Video footage of tourists visiting one of Bali’s most iconic beaches being defrauded in the process went viral this week.
In the clip, a pair of tourists walking towards Dreamland beach in Uluwatu are seen being stopped by a rope strung across the road by a small group of locals. The group was collecting money in an old-looking wooden box.
The tourist asks if he can pay by card, but he is told that this is not possible.
“2000 per person, cash only,” says the man.
Tourists don’t get an answer when they ask whether they’re giving a check or a bill of exchange, so just say “Okay, we can pay later” and keep walking.
The video caught the attention of local authorities and led to official statements to clarify the rules for locals and tourists.
South Kuta Sub-District chairman Ketut Gede Arta said authorities began coordinating on Sunday afternoon after the alleged extortion went viral on social media, but the facts remained unclear. He said village officials visited the area on Monday but no one was there.
“Because we have not directly witnessed illegal taxes, this is still an estimate. However, in tourist areas, rules must be followed. We hope everything goes as planned,” he said.
Made Sumerta, head of Pecatu Traditional Village, announced that there is no entrance fee to Dreamland Beach. He said the village that manages the beach had previously operated a voluntary pay-what-you-can system for parking and vehicle security, known locally as “punia”, but there had never been a charge for entry.
Mr. Sumerta said he could not confirm the extortion allegations, saying visitors had previously asked for their motorcycles to be tracked after frequent thefts and would offer a small token in return.
He concluded by appealing to tourists not to give money at beaches or parking areas unless given an official ticket or receipt.
Dreamland Beach, also known as New Kuta Beach, is a popular stretch of beach near Uluwatu, on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula. Known for its white sand, surf breaks and cliff views, this village attracts both tourists and locals and is managed by the Pecatu Traditional Village.
