Bali Government Enacts New Law to Safeguard Coastal Areas and Promote Sustainable Tourism

Published on November 23, 2025

Bali’s provincial government has introduced a new law aimed at protecting the island’s coastal regions and supporting sustainable tourism. Scheduled to take effect in 2025, the law is designed to preserve Bali’s natural environment, safeguard cultural sites, and ensure that tourism development aligns with the island’s long-term sustainability goals.

The initiative comes in response to concerns about the unchecked expansion of tourism in Bali’s coastal zones, which has led to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and the destruction of sacred beaches. The new regulations will limit large-scale developments near religious and cultural landmarks, ensuring that Bali’s rich heritage and ecosystems remain protected.

A Balanced Approach to Tourism and Environmental Protection

The Bali government’s new law focuses on achieving a harmonious balance between tourism development and environmental conservation. Bali’s coastal regions, with their sacred beaches and vibrant cultural significance, have long been central to the island’s identity. The law addresses the need to prevent over-commercialization and to ensure that future tourism developments are aligned with Bali’s commitment to environmental protection.

Coastal zoning regulations, mandatory environmental assessments, and restricted access to sensitive areas are key elements of the new law. These measures are intended to ensure that tourism growth does not undermine Bali’s delicate ecosystems. Additionally, the law will tackle issues such as water management, waste disposal, and pollution control, establishing safeguards to protect the environment from the impacts of tourism infrastructure.

Supporting Local Communities and Sustainable Practices

A core objective of the new law is to promote tourism practices that benefit local communities while minimizing the ecological footprint of tourism. Bali’s government is focusing on promoting eco-tourism initiatives and fostering authentic cultural experiences that allow local communities to thrive. The law encourages the growth of small-scale, community-based tourism projects, such as rural tourism, handicrafts, and cultural experiences, that can help spread the economic benefits of tourism across the island.

By directing tourism to less-visited areas, such as northern and eastern Bali, the law seeks to alleviate the pressure on the island’s more crowded southern regions, offering visitors opportunities to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness. These initiatives will help ensure that tourism contributes to local economies while maintaining environmental integrity.

Bali’s Government and Responsible Tourism

Bali’s government is committed to working with international organizations and local stakeholders to promote responsible, sustainable tourism. The Bali Tourism Board will play a pivotal role in promoting eco-tourism initiatives, while the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy will support the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure. This holistic approach is designed to make Bali an even more attractive destination for travelers who value sustainability and cultural authenticity.

The law reflects Bali’s alignment with global sustainability trends, as eco-conscious travelers increasingly seek destinations that prioritize conservation and community well-being. Bali’s integration of sustainability into its tourism policies positions the island as a leading destination for responsible tourism.

Protecting Cultural and Religious Sites

Bali’s coastal regions are not only known for their natural beauty but are also home to sacred temples, shrines, and ceremonial grounds that are integral to the island’s Hindu culture. The new law ensures that these religious and cultural sites remain protected from over-development, allowing locals to continue their spiritual practices while preserving the island’s deep cultural connection to the land and sea.

Strict regulations on coastal construction and alignment with traditional cultural practices will ensure that Bali’s sacred spaces are accessible to locals and visitors alike, while maintaining their spiritual significance. The law aims to safeguard the island’s sacred heritage for future generations.

Bali’s Vision for Sustainable Tourism

The introduction of this new coastal protection law is just one aspect of Bali’s broader strategy to manage tourism sustainably while preserving its unique environment and cultural identity. With a focus on eco-friendly development, community-based tourism, and environmental stewardship, Bali is setting an example for sustainable tourism practices in Southeast Asia.

The law is part of a broader vision to establish Bali as a global leader in sustainable tourism. By promoting responsible travel, Bali aims to ensure that its natural and cultural treasures remain intact for generations to come.

Sustainable Travel to Bali: What Tourists Need to Know

Travelers planning to visit Bali are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new tourism regulations and sustainable travel practices introduced by the Bali government. Visitors can stay up-to-date by checking the Bali Tourism Board and Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy websites for the latest guidelines, visa requirements, and sustainability initiatives designed to enhance their experience and support the island’s conservation efforts.