A video depicting tourists being stopped by a group of locals demanding cash for entry to Dreamland Beach in Uluwatu, Bali, has gone viral. The footage shows locals using a rope to block a path and requesting 2000 per person, stating that only cash payments were accepted. The tourists were unable to pay by card or receive a receipt.
The video prompted local officials to investigate the alleged extortion. Ketut Gede Arta, head of the South Kuta Sub-District, confirmed that authorities began coordinating after the social media virality, but stated that no individuals were present at the site during their visit on Monday. He highlighted the importance of adhering to regulations in tourist areas.
Made Sumerta, head of the Pecatu Traditional Village, clarified that Dreamland Beach does not impose any entry fees. He explained that the village, which manages the beach, previously offered a voluntary 'punia' system for parking and vehicle security, allowing visitors to donate what they wished. Sumerta could not confirm the specific extortion claims, noting that some visitors previously offered small tokens for motorcycle supervision due to thefts.
Sumerta advised tourists to only provide payment at beaches or parking areas if an official ticket or receipt is issued. Dreamland Beach, also known as New Kuta Beach, is a popular location on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, managed by the Pecatu Traditional Village.