Blog

Exploring Traditional Salt Making at Kusamba Beach

Exploring Traditional Salt Making at Kusamba Beach

Exploring Traditional Salt Making at Kusamba Beach

Kusamba Beach, located along Bali’s scenic east coast, is a unique destination where visitors can experience a traditional sea salt-making process passed down for generations. Here, Bali’s salt farmers use time-honored techniques inspired by Japan’s Agehama method to create natural sea salt crystals a labor intensive craft that connects the island’s culture to the sea.

The process begins by pouring seawater onto Kusamba’s fine volcanic black sand, where it evaporates under the intense Balinese sun. This soaking and drying cycle builds a high concentration of salt in the sand. The mineral-rich solution is then poured into drying racks hollowed-out tree trunks arranged along the beach to undergo further evaporation. After hours under the sun, sparkling salt crystals emerge, ready for harvest.

Kusamba sea salt, known for its distinctive rough texture, is a highly valued ingredient in Balinese kitchens and popular among chefs for its unique flavor and authenticity. Despite the demanding nature of salt farming, local farmers continue this traditional craft with pride, ensuring a supply of Bali’s own artisanal salt for homes and restaurants.

Located approximately 1.5 hours from Bali Garden Beach Resort, Kusamba Beach offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage. A visit here allows guests to witness and even take part in a truly Balinese craft, bringing home a piece of the island’s natural bounty and history.