tourist information bali

Bali Indonesia

Land of the Gods

Also known as the Land of the Gods, Bali appeals through its sheer natural beauty of looming volcanoes and lush terraced rice fields that exude peace and serenity. It is also famous for surfers’ paradise! Bali enchants with its dramatic dances and colorful ceremonies, its arts, and crafts , to its luxurious beach resorts and exciting nightlife. And everywhere, you will find intricately carved temples.

The Handcrafts of the Gods

There are thousands of gift shops in Bali. From Denpasar to Ubud , you'll find many things you'd like to bring back home. Balinese signature souvenir range from delicious snacks and beverages, to the exquisite handcrafted goods like Tenun Bali. If you are thinking of bringing home souvenirs, your best bet is the souvenir market at Sukowati, where you may be overwhelmed by choice. Most of the starred hotels are located near the beach. Some even have their own private spots at certain beaches, where you can splurge on exclusive privilege. You can find them easily at popular spots like Kuta , Sanur , and Seminyak .

Kuta has a large variety of boutiques and shops, selling everything from bright T-shirts, surf-wear, flip-flops to creative trinkets. If you wish to buy dried foodstuffs, Bali coffee is the most aromatic one. You may also want to buy aromatherapy essential oils to sprinkle your bath with.

Savor the Atmosphere

As Bali is located 8 degrees south of the equator, you will find the climate to be the typical tropical, warm and humid all year round with two main distinctive seasons: Dry Season and Rainy Season. Some of the areas around Bali's central mountains (volcanoes) have several peaks over 3,000 meters above sea levels. Up here the temperatures are considerably cooler, and there is much more rainfall than in the coastal areas. Bali’s white beaches are certainly a favorite destination for family holidays. There are a variety of watersports available, such as banana boats, parasailing or jet skiing, go swimming or you may just linger and enjoy good sunbathing by the sea. Kuta is one of the most well-known beaches in Bali. Along with this stretch are an array of hotels, restaurants, shops, and cafes. In the evenings the area throbs to the beat of disco music. For a quieter evening enjoy the beach at Jimbaran, a popular spot to eat fresh barbecued seafood. Seminyak is home to five-stars International hotels and luxurious accommodation studded with fancy dining spots. Sanur Beach also dotted with hotels and restaurants. You can also visit Nusa Dua, where more private beaches front super deluxe hotels.

Consume your Vitamin Sea

Surfers love the waves at Nusa Lembongan near Nusa Penida. These islands are a 45 minutes boat trip from Nusa Dua or from Sanur. At Nusa Penida’s south western coast are the Manta Point and the Malibu point where divers can swim with Travally, big rays, and even sharks. Kelingking Beach, Atuh beach and Broken beach among the most famous spots of Nusa Penida. The best dive spots can be located at Menjangan island, with its reef flat, anchor wreck, eel garden and caves to explore. Located in the western part of Bali, you can enjoy the rare sight of deer swimming near the beach. Pemutaran is also famous for its diving activities renowned for reef conservation. Try exploring or trekking the West Bali National Park, where you may get up close and personal with Bali’s rich flora and fauna, such as Jalak Bali or the Bali Starling. Bali offers first-class adrenaline-pumping white water rafting down the spectacular Ayung River by Ubud. If you enjoy cycling, Ubud and its surrounding is a wonderful town to bike around. There are also good cycling paths at Uluwatu in the south.

Pump your Adrenaline

Mountain climbers may want to climb up Gunung Agung. Begin your ascend from behind the temple or through the village of Sebudi. However, make sure to ask permission first from the temple authorities, as the Balinese religion prescribes that no one may stand higher than the sacred temple especially when ceremonies are being held. Another mountain for your adventurous hike is the beautiful Mount Batur, that overlooks the serene Lake Batur in Kintamani. The Kecak dance is staged most dramatically in the open-air settings on a cliff, by Uluwatu temple . Experience the unforgettable moments where the sun slowly lowering in the sea over the horizon beyond this beautiful temple serenade with Balinese most iconic art performance. The Kecak dance tells the story of Ramayana wherein prince Rama’s wife, Sita, is abducted by the ogre Rahwana.

Feast your Eyes and Soul

After exploring hours are done for the day, you can surrender in total relaxation and experience the best of Balinese spa , located all over Bali. Balinese spa products are made with fine quality local ingredients and are perfect for you to also bring home as a souvenir!

There are many modes of transport to help you get around in Bali. A variety of excellent half day, full day and overnight tour packages are available from your hotel desk or any of the numerous travel agents and tour operators which abound in Bali. You can also find a car and driver who will also be your guide. Tell the driver your desired route and negotiate a fee.

An important virtue to have while on the road in Bali is patience! Although the road system in the heavily populated areas is quite reasonable (condition wise), it can also be heavily congested at peak periods. Ceremonial processions often take up the entire road so if you're caught behind a procession, enjoy the colorful experience.

The gateway to enter Bali by a flight route is through the Ngurah Rai International Airport. International and national flights are available around the clock, to take the visitor to the Island of The Gods. The airport is scheduled to close once a year during the Balinese Nyepi ceremony, for 24 hours. At Nyepi, every corner of Bali is performing the sacred rituals which made the island ceased any activities outside of these rituals for one whole day.

Overland Public transport to Bali is available through travel companies and busses. If you opt to experience a road trip, be sure that you are equipped and ready for the long hours. From the capital of Jakarta, an overland road trip to Bali can range from 30 hours to a few days. All depending on whether or not you want to stop by and enjoy the cities that you are going to pass through.

By Sea Bali is accessible by ferry ride from an island of Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara. In Lombok, you can explore the beauty of Mount Rinjani and pristine beaches on the Gili islands. From Java Island, you can get to Bali by taking a ferry from Banyuwangi. The city with the slogan of The Sunrise of Java is where you can embark to experience the adventurous path to Ijen Crater and its mesmerizing Blue Fire.

As the Indonesian government reopens the island for domestic and international travelers, do also check out the latest information related to the reopening of Bali.

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Home » Travel Guides » Indonesia » 55 Best Things to Do in Bali (Indonesia)

55 Best Things to Do in Bali (Indonesia)

Bali is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, and with good reason, as this island which is known as the ‘Island of the Gods’ is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Surrounded by azure seas and edged with golden beaches, Bali is of course a surfer’s paradise, and if you are looking for a beach holiday then there is no better place to find it than this gorgeous island set in the middle of Indonesia .

As well as sea and sand however Bali has a huge number of other attractions to enjoy such as temples, caves, waterfalls, museums, and markets, and if you like history and culture then you can spend hours learning the local legends and Balinese traditions in places like Ubud.

If you like adventure activities, then you also won’t be disappointed on a trip here, and you can expect a fantastic array of water sports, muck and wreck diving, and the chance fly through the jungle canopy like Tarzan.

In short, whatever you want to do, you will probably find it in Bali and you can easily spend a month here and still only see a fraction of the sights on offer. The hardest part of a holiday here is choosing where to go first and what you want to see.

Here are the 55 best things to do in Bali …

1. Go surfing in Kuta

If you haven’t surfed before or are just looking for some gentle waves then you have to come to the most famous beach in Bali which is Kuta Beach.

The beach sits across from a sand bar which means it has rolling surf that is free of any sharp reefs and you can rent a board here and sign up for a surf lesson, or rent a body board if you want to try something a little less strenuous.

Locals and visitors alike come here to watch the sunset and you can relax on the sand with a cold beer and drink in the atmosphere.

Book online : 2-Hour Surfing Lessons (Includes Hotel Pick-up)

2. Visit Ulun Danu Temple

Ulun Danu Temple lies at the edge of Baratan Lake in Bedugul in Bali.

This pretty building is dedicated to the goddess of the lake and is one of the quietest and most serene places on the island.

Make sure to check out all the different shrines, each one dedicated to a different god, and look out for the ornate architectural touches such as the intricate carved gates.

Recommended tour (including this temple) : Bali: UNESCO World Heritage Sites Full-Day Tour

3. Have fun at Bali Treetop Adventure Park

If you want an adrenaline packed afternoon then make your way to Bali Treetop Adventure Park where you will find a range of rides surrounded by lush forests.

The park is great for families as well as groups or couples and has rides for children as young as 4 years old.

There are a range of different circuits that are located high up in the trees and there are nets, swings, and flying foxes galore that let you fly through the air and take in the breathtaking views over the forest canopy.

4. Have lunch at Bebek Bengil in Ubud

Bebek Bengil means the ‘Dirty Duck’ in Indonesian and is one of the best loved restaurants in Ubud.

The restaurant backs onto a pretty rice field and the main specialty here is the duck which comes in a variety of different dishes.

The signature style here is the bebek betutu which is boiled in a broth made with aromatic herbs and then rubbed with local spices.

The duck is then fried until it is crispy and the skin is blistered and then served with some simple rice and vegetables.

5. Go muck diving in Padang Bai

Padang Bai is situated in the east of Bali and is most famous for its diving.

There are seven different dive sites that can easily be reached after a short boat trip from the shore and whatever your diving experience there is something for everyone here.

You can get PADI certified and if you like muck diving then this is one of the best places to do it in Bali and you will find a range of underwater critters like the blue ringed octopus and pygmy seahorses.

There is also a good chance of seeing sharks, turtles, and waving fans and coral gardens.

6. Relax at the Yoga Barn

Bali is known as a place to relax and find enlightenment and with that in mind head for the Yoga Barn which is one of the most famous yoga retreats on the island.

Located in quiet and contemplative Ubud, the Yoga Barn has five different studios and a range of programs for all levels of ability.

You can even book to stay here for a retreat lasting several days and there are cleansing and detox programs that will help you to relax and adjust to a slower pace of life.

7. Strap on a jetpack in Tanjung Benoa

Tanjung Benoa is the place to come in Bali if you want to try water sports and you can find a range of different activities on offer.

One of the most exciting however is strapping on a water jetpack which will let you fly up into the sky to a height of 10 meters and sessions usually last around 20 minutes.

One of the big draws of going jet packing is the chance to take in the beauty of Bali from the air and even if you have never done anything like this before the dedicated instructors will teach you how to fly in a safe and controlled environment.

8. Spend time in Sidemen

Sidemen is often left of many traveler’s itineraries which is a shame as it offers you the perfect alternative to more crowded spots like Ubud.

The area is located amongst jade green rice paddies and lies in a cool valley and you can go trekking in the surrounding area and walk to secluded waterfalls and stunning vantage points that let you take in the majesty of the scenery here.

9. Buy some silver in Celuk

Celuk is a village located in Sukawati which is known for its silver smiths.

Around 30 minutes away from neighboring Ubud, you can easily visit for the day and walk along the main street of Jalan Raya Celuk where you will find a huge array of silver studios with ornately designed silverware for sale.

You can pick up a range of traditional souvenirs here or even custom order anything you want, and it is standard practice to bargain here so don’t be afraid to haggle if you see something you like.

Celuk is included in this tour : Scenic Ubud and Kintamani Volcano Full-Day Tour

10. Marvel at Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple is probably the most famous attraction in Bali and is a Hindu temple that sits atop a large and scenic rock formation.

Over the years the sea has separated the rock from the mainland, and at high tide the rock is completely surrounded making this one of the most amazing sights in Indonesia.

Many people flock here for the sunsets around the temple so make sure you go early to get the best spot to watch the spectacle.

When the tide is low it is possible to walk across the sand to the temple.

Suggested tour : Bali Sunset and Dinner: Uluwatu, Tanah Lot and Jimbaran

11. Go snorkeling in Amed

If you are looking for a quieter corner of Bali undisturbed by the crowds of tourists who flock here then Amed is a great choice.

This part of the island is still relatively off the radar and is not exactly a town, but rather a collection of villages strung together next to the sea.

The reason many people come here is for the snorkeling and diving as the visibility is excellent and you can dive relatively cheaply compared to other parts of Bali.

12. Experience the culture in Ubud

Ubud is widely known as the cultural heartland of Bali so if you like art then this is the place to come.

Ubud sits amongst gorgeous rolling rice paddies and if filled with art galleries like Neka Art Museum which gives you a glimpse of the evolution of art in Bali.

You can also find galleries dedicated to jewelry, ceramics, and sculpture and you can buy arts and crafts souvenirs all over Ubud.

13. Take a cooking class at Bumbu Bali

Bumbu Bali is one of the island’s most famous restaurants and is owned by Heinz von Holzen.

The restaurant also runs cooking classes which include a morning trip to a local market to learn all about local Balinese ingredients, and you can then come back to the restaurant kitchens and cook up a spectacular traditional Balinese meal.

The lesson ends with a communal lunch and you will get a certificate of participation as a memento of your class.

14. Watch a Kecak dance

Bali is famous for its dances and one of these is the Kecak dance which was developed in the 1930s.

The dance takes its name from the ‘cak’ sound that is repeated throughout and is based on the story of the Hindu epic called the Ramayana.

You can watch performances of the dance all over the island and many shows take place outside under the stars.

Recommended tour : Bali Sunset: Uluwatu Temple, Kecak Dance and Jimbaran Bay

15. Explore the paddy fields of Tabanan

Those looking for something a little different in Bali can head to the area of Tabanan which is covered in lush rich paddies that sparkle with an emerald hue under the sun.

The big draw here is that in addition to checking out the scenery you can also get involved and learn how rice is grown and harvested in Bali.

If you are feeling adventurous you can get knee deep in mud in a paddy and pick some of your own.

16. Spend time with the monkeys at Monkey Forest

Monkey Forest is a Hindu temple complex in Ubud and also one of its main attractions.

The complex is full of over 500 monkeys and the three temples that still stand here date from the 14th century.

The entire area is a nature reserve and you can walk around and take in the scenery as well as take photographs of the monkeys.

You can buy bananas to feed the primates from the main entrance but beware, if you have anything else on you like sunglasses or water bottles the monkeys have been known to grab what they can from visitors.

17. Bathe in the sacred waters of Tirta Empul

You may recognize Tirta Empul which was used as a location in the film Eat, Pray, Love which featured Julia Roberts.

This temple complex sits just outside of Ubud and is made up of a number of pools which are filled by fountains.

The waters here are said to be sacred and Hindus from all over Bali come here to bathe.

Anyone can swim in the waters or you can walk around the complex and check out the pretty architecture and plethora of ornate statues.

Suggested tour : Full-Day Spiritual Cleansing and Shamanic Healing Tour

18. Get back to nature at Bali Zoo

Bali Zoo sits in the Gianyar Regency and if you want to check out some Southeast Asian animals then this is the place to do it.

The zoo is made up of open air enclosures rather than cages which are meant to mimic the natural habitat of the species here.

Some of these include tigers, elephants, rhinoceros, and a range of colorful birds, and you can either visit in the day time or choose the night safari which is perfect if you want to see some of the nocturnal animals that call the zoo home.

Book online (can be booked with hotel pick-up) : Bali Zoo Entrance Ticket

19. Feast on seafood in Sanur

Sanur is a sleepy seaside town that can feel miles away from busier areas like Kuta.

The big draw here is the main strip of beach which is flanked by a long pavement so you can walk along the shore line and check out the views as well as stop for a bite to eat.

Sanur is famous for its seafood restaurants and one of the best things to do in the evenings is to go for a wander and stop when you see something that looks good.

The food here is simply grilled over coconut husks for a wonderful smoky flavor and served with rice and chili sauce.

20. Marvel at Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple is arguably one of the most famous sights in Bali and stands 70 meters above the sea.

The temple was constructed on the side of a cliff overlooking the raging waters below and if you want truly spectacular views and ornate architecture then make sure not to miss this off the itinerary.

The temple is known for its monkey population and you can also catch a range of shows here such as famous Balinese dances.

If possible try to go in the evening so that you can catch the sunset here.

Recommended tour : Bali Sunset and Dinner: Uluwatu, Tanah Lot and Jimbaran

21. Tour a chocolate factory

You may not immediately think of chocolate when you think of Bali but actually Indonesia is one of the top producers of cocoa in the world.

As a result, you can visit Pod Chocolate Factory which makes some of the most delicious bites in Bali and find out how cocoa is grown and harvested and how the chocolate is made.

The factory offers a range of tours and of course you can buy some of the delicious treats on offer here as a sweet souvenir of your trip.

22. Climb Mount Batur

Anyone looking for some adventure in Bali needs to head to Mount Batur which stands at 1,700 meters above sea level.

This is one of the most famous volcanoes in Bali and you can take a tour to the top which usually starts out at around 4 am.

This gets you to the top in time to watch the spectacular sunrise over the crater and the mountain is encircled by a stunning lake.

This is also one of the easiest treks in Bali compared with larger mountains so if you want to say you trekked up a volcano then this is a good choice.

23. Go white water rafting on Ayung River

Bali has a huge range of water sports and one of the most exciting is a trip down the Ayung River on a raft.

The river is covered with white water rapids that make for a wild ride and as you float down the Ayung you will pass little local villages and lush forests that let you take in the beautiful vistas here from a completely different vantage point.

Recommended tour : Ayung River Rafting Trip with Lunch

24. Enjoy the nightlife in Kuta

Anyone looking for a party needs to head to Jalan Legian in Kuta.

This area is known as the main nightlife hub of Bali and you will find a huge range of different night clubs, live music events, and relaxed cafes.

The party scene keeps going into the early morning and you will also find a vast number of eateries here if you get hungry.

25. Eat green at Alchemy Cafe in Ubud

If you want to eat green in Bali then you need to head to Ubud which has seen an explosion of vegetarian and vegan restaurants in recent years.

One of these is Alchemy Cafe which serves up raw and vegan foods and even has a raw chocolate factory as part of the cafe.

All the dishes here are made with local ingredients and you can choose from the famous salad bar and try some of the raw vegan sushi.

They also do a great range of smoothies and shakes made with tropical fruit as well as raw deserts and chocolates.

26. Enjoy some water sports in Sanur

Sanur is famous for not having any waves, so surfing is not possible here.

For this reason many visitors think that you can’t get out on the water although this is completely wrong.

On the contrary, Sanur has a huge variety of water sports on offer and you can try kiting surfing, paragliding, and even standing up paddle boarding.

27. Enjoy some luxury in Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is known for being one of the most expensive parts of the island but if your budget allows for a little luxury then make your way to this upscale enclave.

Here you will find a dedicated tourist area with manicured lawns and private beaches and all of the big name resorts like the Marriott are located here.

It’s a great place to relax for a few days away from the crowds and you can spend time sunbathing or enjoying a spa treatment.

28. Go for a swim at Waterbom

Waterbom is a well loved institution in Kuta and a great place for families or those who want to make a splash.

This water park has a range of pools and slides as well as some hair raising rides like the Climax which is a sheer drop down a long water slides for those seeking an adrenalin pumping afternoon.

You will also find a range of cafes here if you want to get a bite to eat.

29. Go wreck diving at Tulamben

You can dive all around the island of Bali but if you want to try wreck diving then you will need to come to Tulamben.

Here you will find the wreck of the USAT Liberty which was sunk here in the Second World War and this is one of the most famous wrecks in the world.

You can expect to find a huge number of underwater creatures here as well as colorful fans and there is also a larger coral garden that lies close to the USAT Liberty so that you can check out both spots at the same time.

Available activity : Tulamben Bay Beginner’s Dive Experience

30. Have dinner in Jimbaran

Jimbaran used to be a fishing village although now it is most well known for its seafood restaurants.

Jimbaran sits on the coast and is flanked with a long stretch of golden sandy beach and you can come here and pick from any of the beachside restaurants which will let you sit with your feet in the sand and will serve you up a delicious traditional seafood barbecue.

You order the seafood according to weight and can pick from the freshest catch of the day according to what looks best when you visit.

The fish is cooked to order and served with rice and some simple side dishes.

31. Spend the day on Menjangan Island

You will find Menjangan Island in the north west of Bali and although it can take some time to get here, it is more than worth it is you want to visit the Menjangan National Marine Park.

As well as trekking on the island the main reason to come here is for the diving and you will find a plethora of underwater delights such as coral reefs and colorful fish.

There is also a good chance of seeing other sea creatures such as turtles, octopus, crabs, and rays.

32. Explore Candidasa

Candidasa is often not visited by travelers and is made up of a string of villages along the coast that offer a nice change of pace to areas like Kuta.

You will find a large swathe of beach here that stretches for miles and if you want a more secluded and less crowded beach experience then this is a good choice.

33. Go on safari at Bali Marine and Safari Park

Bali Marine and Safari Park is made up of a collection of the best flora and fauna in Indonesia and you will be greeted with over 60 different species of animals here.

There are also dance and musical shows held here throughout the day and you can go on a safari tour to see the animals as they roam all over the park.

There is even the option to stay here overnight and watch graceful giraffes and elephants amble past your hotel room.

Book online : Bali Safari & Marine Park: Entrance Ticket & Visit

34. Check out the stone carvings in Batubulan

The village of Batubulan has made a name for itself over the years as the place to come if you want to find some of the prettiest stone carvings in Bali.

The village is around two kilometers outside Denpasar and you will find traditional carvings in the image of famous Balinese gods and goddesses as well as scenes from famous epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.

The stones here are blue and black as they are made up of volcanic minerals and if you are looking for a souvenir of a trip to Bali then this is the perfect place to find one.

35. Discover a hidden waterfall in Sukawati

Bali is known for its natural beauty and no more so than its stunning waterfalls.

One of the best examples of these is the spectacular Sekumpul Waterfall which lies in a lush valley and is meant to be a sacred spot in Bali.

To get to the waterfall you will need to trek along a secluded path and you won’t realize that you have arrived at the waterfall until you suddenly see it peeking out of the undergrowth.

You can swim in the pools beneath the cataract and cool off after the long hike.

36. Visit a spa

Bali is known for its spa experiences which blend traditional local ingredients and centuries old techniques that will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated.

One of the most amazing of all Bali’s spas is The Spa and The Edge Hotel which is located in Pectau and sits on the side of a cliff.

This means that you get views over the water and can look over a sheer drop down the cliff side and the packages here mix flowers, rice, and holy water for one of the best spa experiences on the island.

37. Check out a turtle sanctuary

Serangan Turtle Island Conservation Centre

The Turtle Conservation and Education Centre is located on Serangan Island which is close to the seaside town of Sanur and is a fascinating place to come if you love turtles.

The aim of the center is to educate visitors regarding the various dangers that pollution and poaching can pose to the turtles and the staff here rescue injured turtles and care for them before they can be released back into the wild.

38. Relax on Pantai Indah

Sanur is known for its beach which is called Pantai Indah and which lies in the centre of the strip.

Here you will find clean sands and warm waters as well as a delightful beachside cafe called Warung Pantai Indah.

You can sit on a wooden bench overlooking the water and watch the fishermen at work and order a range of local dishes like satay served over hot coals as well as curries and the ubiquitous Indonesian beer called Bintang.

39. Visit Bali Provincial State Museum

The Bali Provincial State Museum has the claim to fame of being the oldest museum in Bali and has over 10,000 items on display.

The museum is built in the traditional style and has royal pavilions and beautiful Balinese architecture aplenty.

Here you will find an amazing array of prehistoric artifacts as well as works of art and weaponry.

Other galleries are full of ceramics such as statues and stones with ancient inscriptions as well as tools and bronze pieces.

The northern royal pavilion is modeled on a Tabanan palace and you can see traditional textiles and masks used in Balinese ceremonies and dances.

40. Get off the grid at Munduk

Munduk is the home of some of the prettiest waterfalls in Bali and also lies next to the spectacular Tamblingan Lake.

If you like trekking then this makes a great choice and you will find stretches of farm land, orchid fields, and local markets all over Munduk.

There are only a few guesthouses dotted around here but if you want to check out a less-visited side of Bali then Munduk offers you a great slice of local life away from the more touristy areas.

41. Buy some wood carvings in Mas

Mas is a village that is around six kilometers outside of Ubud and is known all over the island for its intricate wood carvings.

If you want some of the prettiest souvenirs in Bali then make sure to come here and check out the carvings which come in a range of designs such as traditional masks and tableaus of famous Balinese stories.

Some of the most famous spots in Mas include the Nyana & Tilem Gallery as well as the I.B Sutarja Mask Carver Gallery.

42. Tuck into some Babi Guling

Babi Guling is the most famous food on the island and is a dish made of suckling pig which has been spit-roasted over coals.

The pig is rubbed in a blend of local spices and herbs and then slowly roasted over several hours, and you can get this dish at a range of restaurants all over Bali.

The most famous of these however is Babi Guling Pak Malen which sits on Sunset Road, one of the main roads near Kuta, and they have been serving up this dish for years.

If you want a plate of some of the most authentic Babi Guling in Bali then make sure to make a trip here.

43. Sunbathe on Balangan Beach

Balangan Beach lies some 40 minutes outside Kuta but it feels as if you are in another world.

If you want to get away from the crowds then this is the place to do it, and you will find pristine sands and a great surf break if you want to try some surfing.

The beach sits at the bottom of a set of craggy cliffs and you can walk down a steep set of stairs cut into the cliff side in order to access the beach.

It takes a little effort to get to this secluded beach but it is more than worth it for the views and you will find a range of cafes and warungs where you can have a spot of lunch or relax and look at the sunset with a beer.

44. Explore the Don Antonio Blanco Museum

Antonio Blanco was a Spanish national who was born in the Philippines and then moved to Bali.

Blanco died in 1999 but when he lived in Bali he was known as one of the most important and influential foreign artists on the island.

Nowadays his home has been turned into a museum that sits on the pretty Campuhan River and you can tour the museum and take in the art work for which Blanco was famous.

Items on show include some of his possessions including a painting that he was working on which still stands on his easel.

45. Try some traditional Balinese food at Warung Blanjong

Bali has a range of delicious local specialties that you won’t find anywhere else in Indonesia, so with that in mind make sure to spend some time eating your way around the island.

One of the best places to try some of the local bites is at Warung Blanjong in Sanur which serves up traditional Balinese food such as siap betutu which is chicken roasted with local herbs and spices.

You can also try pepes be pasih which is a fish dish wrapped in banana leaves and as the staff speak English this is a good choice if you are new in town and want to sample some of the local delights.

46. Drink from the waters at Goa Gajah

Anyone who is looking for the fountain of youth needs to come to Goa Gajah which is a cave complex that means Elephant Cave in Indonesian.

The cave is best known for its statues in the form of six women carrying water pots that are also fountains.

You can drink the water that comes out of the pots and it is said to have healing properties and will keep you looking young for years to come.

The cave dates from the 9th century and you can take a guided tour around the complex which will fill you in all the historical and cultural significance of this part of Bali.

47. Go shopping at Pasar Badung

Those that like shopping need to squeeze in a trip to Pasar Badung which is a market in Denpasar that sits on the scenic banks of the Badung River.

The market is a vast complex that sprawls over four floors and you will find different areas here that sell all kinds of products including local food items like fruit, vegetables, and spices.

You can take a tour of the market and check out all the uniquely Balinese products on sale and then explore the local temples that are located close by.

48. Go caving at Uluwatu Beach

Surf aficionados flock to Uluwatu Beach for the waves, but many people don’t know that there is a hidden gem here if you are willing to look for it.

Beneath the beach is the Uluwatu Beach Cave which looks like a dragon’s lair and is a great stop off if you want to spend time in a cool and serene environment after a day spent on a baking hot beach.

49. Visit Ubud Palace

Ubud Palace is the most important spot in Ubud and dates from the 1800s.

The complex includes the palace as well as gorgeous gardens and ornate architectural features and you can explore during the day or wait until the sun comes down to venture here.

In the evenings the palace also comes alive and there are dance shows held here that are perfect if you want to take in some of the culture in a beautiful historic setting.

50. Spend time at Canggu Beach

The beach in Canggu is known for its eight kilometers of golden sands and is often voted one of the prettiest beaches in the world.

Despite its popularity however it doesn’t feel crowded and still retains much of its rural charm, and popular pastimes here include swimming and surfing.

At sunset you can take in the beautiful views and there are a vast number of places dotted along the sand where you can get a drink and enjoy the sound of the waves.

51. Walk to Gitgit Waterfall

Make sure not to miss Gitgit Waterfall which is widely known as the most picturesque cataract in Bali.

The waters are located between Denpasar and Singaraja and you can hike along a small trail to the waterfall that will take you past leafy forests and through coffee plantations.

The waters gush down a drop of 35 meters and there is a pool at the bottom of the waterfall where you can swim although there is also a local legend here that says that couples shouldn’t bathe together as this can spell bad luck for their relationship.

52. Visit Bali Bird Park

Bali Bird Park is filled with a vast collection of birds from all over Indonesia including an array of unusual species.

The park is located in Batubulan which is also known for its stone carving and there is an adjacent reptile farm if you want a change of pace from the birds.

The park is separated into different sections that mirror the natural habitats of the birds and you will find gorgeous avians such as colorful parrots and birds of paradise.

53. Have a drink in Seminyak

Seminyak is known for being one of the best party destinations on the island and you will find a long strip of sandy beach here that has a huge number of nightlife options.

These include cafes and restaurants and in the evening many eateries set up bean bags and cushions on the beach so that you can sip a cocktail and watch the sun go down.

There are a range of famous venues here such as Ku De Ta although the best thing to do is go for a walk and see which area takes your fancy.

54. Travel to Karangasem

Many people never make it to Eastern Bali which is a shame as this part of the island offers a completely different experience compared to other spots like Seminyak and Kuta.

It takes around an hour and a half to get to Karangasem from Bali’s main airport but it is well worth it so that you can explore areas such as Tirta Gangga which is a famed water palace that would have been used by the royal family who were the heads of the city of Amlapura.

55. Spot the dolphins in Lovina

Bali is covered in beaches but one that stands out the most is Lovina as the sand is black thanks to its high mineral content and volcanic ash.

The main reason why many people visit Lovina is to see some of its resident dolphins that swim in the waters here and you can take a boat trip out in the early morning when you will have the best chance of spotting them.

For many visitors this is a highlight of a trip here and it is well worth getting up early in the morning to get a chance to spot these graceful creatures in their natural environment.

55 Best Things to Do in Bali (Indonesia):

Go surfing in Kuta
Visit Ulun Danu Temple
Have fun at Bali Treetop Adventure Park
Have lunch at Bebek Bengil in Ubud
Go muck diving in Padang Bai
Relax at the Yoga Barn
Strap on a jetpack in Tanjung Benoa
Spend time in Sidemen
Buy some silver in Celuk
Marvel at Tanah Lot Temple
Go snorkeling in Amed
Experience the culture in Ubud
Take a cooking class at Bumbu Bali
Watch a Kecak dance
Explore the paddy fields of Tabanan
Spend time with the monkeys at Monkey Forest
Bathe in the sacred waters of Tirta Empul
Get back to nature at Bali Zoo
Feast on seafood in Sanur
Marvel at Uluwatu Temple
Tour a chocolate factory
Climb Mount Batur
Go white water rafting on Ayung River
Enjoy the nightlife in Kuta
Eat green at Alchemy Cafe in Ubud
Enjoy some water sports in Sanur
Enjoy some luxury in Nusa Dua
Go for a swim at Waterbom
Go wreck diving at Tulamben
Have dinner in Jimbaran
Spend the day on Menjangan Island
Explore Candidasa
Go on safari at Bali Marine and Safari Park
Check out the stone carvings in Batubulan
Discover a hidden waterfall in Sukawati
Visit a spa
Check out a turtle sanctuary
Visit Bali Provincial State Museum
Get off the grid at Munduk
Buy some wood carvings in Mas
Tuck into some Babi Guling
Sunbathe on Balangan Beach
Explore the Don Antonio Blanco Museum
Try some traditional Balinese food at Warung Blanjong
Drink from the waters at Goa Gajah
Go shopping at Pasar Badung
Go caving at Uluwatu Beach
Visit Ubud Palace
Spend time at Canggu Beach
Walk to Gitgit Waterfall
Visit Bali Bird Park
Have a drink in Seminyak
Travel to Karangasem
Spot the dolphins in Lovina

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Destinations

Bali Is One of the Most Instagrammable Islands in the World, With Stunning Beaches, Emerald Jungles, and Luxury Villas

These are the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in Bali.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Things to Do

Best shopping, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

As magical destinations go, Bali is definitely up there. There are the awe-inspiring temples in the tens of thousands — literally — and near-daily ceremonies: vivid, multi-sensory, and loud, accompanied by chanting and clanging gamelan . Add to that endless beaches trimmed in aquamarine surf, pulsing with relentlessly curling waves topped with dancing surfers. There are miles and miles of verdant rice paddies, terraced so immaculately they've become iconic. And don't forget canang sari , the prolific flower-laden offerings blessed and placed seemingly everywhere daily on the so-called "Island of Gods."

"From its pristine beaches to lush landscapes, cultural treasures, and thrilling adventures, Bali will resonate with every traveler," Giordano Faggioli, the general manager of Ayana Estate, told Travel + Leisure. "Guests can seek relaxation, exploration, spiritual rejuvenation, or adrenaline-pumping pursuits that harmoniously offer an unforgettable experience."

Bali has an energy about it that acts as a siren song to woo-woo wellness practitioners, design buffs, and carousing Gen Z-ers in equal numbers, along with stoked surfers, spiritual pilgrims, yogis, beach lovers, plus plenty of celebrities and influencers to boot. And the most fulfilling and thrilling Bali holidays include a few locations, so don't stress about picking just one vibe or scene — it's best to combine a few, or two if you're short on time.

"Guests can tailor their Bali experience based on personal preferences," Faggioli said. "My suggestion is to scale the heights of Mount Batur to witness a captivating sunrise over the island’s volcanic terrain. Immerse in the local community and Balinese everyday life at Sukowati market." Enjoy island time and the locals who are overwhelmingly generous, sweet, and genuine. All factors considered, it's nearly impossible not to leave Bali feeling far better — happier, healthier, and definitely more tan — than when you landed.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Four seasons resort bali at sayan.

It's obvious you're somewhere special right upon arrival at this John Heah–designed resort . The standalone villas (each with a private pool) and suites have slept everyone from the Obamas to Julia Roberts. River rafting, cycling, and other adventurous cultural tours are on offer, but the resort environment — with its pools, flavorful food, and entertainment — is so alluring it's tempting to just relax, too.

Capella Ubud

As resort concepts go, Capella Ubud, voted one of the best resorts in Indonesia in 2022 by T+L readers , is truly one-of-a-kind. Its 22 one-bedroom tented and batik-draped retreats, hand-painted Mads Lange restaurant, and even saltwater pool all float over the jungle floor — not one tree was cut as the whimsical Bill Bensley creations were constructed.

Katamama Suites at Desa Potato Head

An artisanal theme pervades this brick-clad Brutalist boutique hotel that manages to be a quiet respite in the heart of lively Seminyak. It all celebrates Indonesia's rich traditions of craft through a midcentury-esque lens. Tear yourself away from the long turquoise pool to hit the beach, just a few minutes away, or some of the hundreds of shops and restaurants within walking distance.

Como Uma Canggu

This airy modern beachfront resort occupies prime real estate in Canggu, easy walking—or scooting—distance to all the town's hot spots. Hopeful surfers should book lessons with the consummate professionals at Tropicsurf onsite, while the wellness-minded have their choice of Pilates, yoga, a Jungle Sports studio, and a comprehensive spa.

Uluwatu Surf Villas

If paradisiacal views are what you crave, Uluwatu Surf Villas has you covered. The legendary surfers' resort perched above those famously large waves (there's a set of private steps down) offers traditionally Balinese-designed thatched-roof cliff-front villas as well as a collection of newer architectural masterpieces, each one with its own unique tropical modern vibe.

Ayana Villas

Feel like you're the only one in Bali with a stay at Ayana Villas , a resort made up of 78 private villas, each with its own plunge pools. Ocean views, flowering gardens, and utter romance abound at this chic resort, making it an ideal spot for honeymooners to come to bask in that new love glow.

Read More: T+L Readers' 5 Favorite Resorts in Indonesia of 2023

Ride a Bike Through Rice Fields

There's no question about the iconic status of Tegallalang, the flawless and highly photogenic rice terraces curving around hillsides and irrigated by the subak system, which has UNESCO status. As good as that hot spot is, the more intimate way to experience the ubiquitous emerald paddies is by bicycle, which many Ubud hotels and tour companies offer led by local guides.

Try Surfing

Bali's reputation as a surf destination is well earned, thanks to its rich assortment of not only professional-grade waves (see the aquamarine behemoths rolling in like corduroy in Keramas and Uluwatu, where Kelly Slater surfs) but also beginner-level breaks like Baby Padang at Padang Padang Beach and Batu Bolong in Canggu. There are fantastic surf camps and instructors across the island.

Visit Hindu Temples

Bali's transcendent charm is rooted in its tens of thousands of Hindu temples, and there are many worth visiting for a dose of impressively ornate architecture and mystical ambiance. Some of the most iconic on the island are Pura Tirta Empul ( pura means "temple"), where you can bathe and bless yourself in holy spring waters spouting from carved stone; Pura Besakih, the largest and holiest of them all; and Pura Luhur Uluwatu, the clifftop sea temple where each sunset draws tourists for flashy yet authentic kecak (fire) dances.

Take a Yoga Class at The Yoga Barn

Ubud is associated with all things spiritual, and high vibe, and its multitude of yoga studios and movement centers are evidence. Practitioners can find more than 100 classes per week at The Yoga Barn , an epicenter of yin, vinyasa, Hatha, and kundalini, plus meditation, sound healing, and ecstatic dance.

Gaya Ceramic

The founders of this celebrated ceramic design studio are an Italian expat couple, but their ultra-skilled team of some 100 craftsmen are overwhelmingly Balinese. It's impossible to leave the showroom empty-handed, thanks to its proliferation of glamorous handmade dishes and decor.

Canaan x Rou

This petite shop packs a major punch with tightly curated and oftentimes collaborative goods made by Balinese artisans, think placemats, eye-catching brass cutlery, and a plant-dyed shibori clothing collection. Beautiful gifts — for yourself and also loved ones back home—include signature Canaan candles, artisanal fans from Yogyakarta, and Cisco & the Sun's wabi sabi–inspired ceramics.

Magali Pascal

Ethereal, elegant, and earthy womenswear can be found at this Canggu boutique . The eponymous label began on Bali in 2005 and marries an effortless French sensibility with a cool-girl palette ideal for island holidays.

You don't need to be a pro in the waves to embark on a spree at this beloved surf shop . A reclaimed joglo house holds dozens of slick, technicolor surfboards — finely crafted by sought-after shapers — along with Drifter's own brand of art-emblazoned tees, international bikini collections, original artwork, boho jewelry, ocean-themed books, and far more.

With a name meaning "tribe" in Bahasa Indonesia, Kaum is a concept born of its culinary team's deep exploration of Indonesia's super diverse archipelago and its tribes' cooking and catching methods (fishing and spear hunting to name a few adventures). A sampling of fiery sambals is a great way to start feasting on rich regional dishes made of specialty ingredients sourced as locally as possible.

It's not too extreme an exaggeration to call Ubud a mecca for vegans, and this plant-, root- and shoot-slinging destination is like the high temple in the lush jungle. Zest , the chic, plant-powered restaurant appropriately hugs a living frangipani tree and offers up colorful, organic fare from jackfruit steaks to pizzas and cassava fettuccini alongside a lively community and creative, island-grown cocktails and tonics.

Hujan Locale

Casually elegant and tucked away like a well-kept secret amid Ubud's busy streets, this eatery is a perfect blend of warung (a basic Indonesian cafe or small restaurant) and fine dining restaurant. Sit near one of many open windows for views of a classic Balinese neighborhood while sipping vibrant cocktails (think Carrot Mai Tais and Butterfly Pea Martinis).

Chef's Table at Sokasi

Intimate dinners at Sokasi — the curvaceous bamboo pavilion perched above the rushing Ayung River at the Four Seasons in Sayan — are all about preserving the island's time-intensive culinary heritage. Arrive early for a peek at the pig roasting over a coconut wood fire before tucking into rich, forgotten recipes featuring flavors like wild ginger and klengis (an extract from hand-making coconut oil).

Cuca Restaurant Bali

Tapas in Indonesia sounds random but dreamed up and prepared with quality produce and products sourced from the archipelago by chef Kevin Cherkas (whose CV includes several Michelin three-star restaurants), it's flawless. The nine-course tasting menu at Cuca is a favorite at this vegetarian-friendly fine-dining spot. And though its ingredients evoke Indonesia, the plates are all over the map: sticky eggplant sushi, BBQ octopus, Turkish meatballs, moussaka, and crispy fried chicken.

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

The best time to visit Bali is during both the summer holiday months and the local festive season.

The biggest holiday of the year is Nyepi , which happens in March and involves fantastical parades of men and boys hauling ogoh-ogoh (huge handmade demon dolls) the night before a 24-hour silent day, on which even the airport falls quiet, and planes don't take off or land, and the use of electricity and vehicles is forbidden. For that period, tourists must stay on the grounds of their accommodations, but it's a beautiful opportunity to experience Balinese culture as well as epic stargazing. Surfers will find the best waves on the west coast of Bali from May to October, at which point the winds shift and it improves on the eastern side.

"Being an equatorial getaway boasting a consistently delightful climate, this destination attracts globetrotters from across the world, regardless of whether it's the dry or rainy season," Faggioli shared. "Nevertheless, my ultimate preference rests with the period spanning from June to August. During these months, the sun graces the skies daily, and the weather is very nice."

Bali doesn't experience four seasons in the same way we do. Instead, there are just two: rainy and dry. When it rains, it really pours, but there can also be beautiful days during that humid period, from November to March. April to October tends to be far drier and equally hot, though nights can feel quite cool. Daytime temperatures hover in the high 70s and 80s Fahrenheit year-round.

Plane: Because Bali is an island, the practical to get there is by plane. Visitors will fly into its one international airport, Denpasar-Ngurah Rai International Airport, which services flights from all over the world.

Ferry: There are also plentiful ferries that travel from the mainland of Indonesia to Bali. See all the available ferry terminals and times here .

Cruise: One more option is to book a cruise that stops in Bali as one of its ports of call. Several cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises , make stops here.

This is Bali's most known beach neighborhood, and without a doubt, its busiest. There are literally countless places to shop, eat, and drink along its vibrant, crowded streets, not to mention hundreds of deluxe villas and many luxury hotels. Partying isn't contained to after-dark hours — beach clubs like Potato Head and Ku De Ta are popular at all times of day and night.

Think of Canggu as the newer Seminyak — super hip and, in recent years, where a burst of development has occurred, bringing this seaside beach town plenty of cool little boutiques. Plus, loads of eateries and bars are helmed by chefs from around the world, bringing not only international flavors but aesthetics.

Ever since Elizabeth Gilbert's " Eat Pray Love" threw Ubud (pronounced oo-bood ) into the spotlight, it's become almost every tourist's definition of Bali. That's ironic considering the island is known for its beaches, and this busy, sprawling town full of yoga studios, vegan cafes, shops, spas, and markets is a 30-minute motorbike ride from the nearest stretch of sand. Still, it's probably the most popular stop in Bali, a great jumping-off point for temple visits, hikes (Mt. Batur is lovely at sunrise), visits with healers, coffee ( kopi ) tastings, and a serious dose of culture.

If you surf, you've already heard of Uluwatu. Besides its epic waves, the southwesternmost tip of Bali is famed for Pura Uluwatu, the clifftop Hindu temple where monkeys cause mischief as sarong-clad visitors take in panoramic sunsets. Uluwatu and its neighboring surf towns of Padang Padang and Bingin are lower key than Canggu, with more dramatically beautiful beaches (most of which require a decent number of steps to access) and a laid-back but luscious restaurant and cafe scene.

Nusa Lembongan

This tiny island off the southeastern coast is technically part of Bali (along with the even teenier Nusa Ceningan and much larger but less developed Nusa Penida), but is about 20 years behind developmentally, which means it's a bit closer to the storied Bali of yore. Still, there are already plenty of Instagrammable hotels and eateries here, so if you're keen for some scuba diving, snorkeling, or more surf, it makes for a fun few-day spinoff (the fast boat from Sanur or Serangan takes about 30 minutes).

Motorbike : Bali does not have a public transit system in the Western sense — there are some buses, but not reliable or advised. Instead, the ubiquitous motorbikes that flood every street (and sometimes sidewalk) are the primary mode of transportation. There are plentiful rental services to assist in finding the bike for you. Taxi: If the idea of riding one stresses you out (and it should a bit, the experience is not for the timid), there are plentiful taxis for hire. Uber is not available in Bali, so go with a local service instead.

Private car: There are also abundant private cars with gracious Balinese drivers who will happily be on call to ferry you around the island, many of whom double as casual tour guides.

Rental cars: Almost every rental car service operates in Bali and is available from the airport. If you plan to see a lot of the area it is a good idea to rent your own car, or like the above, hire a private driver, to take you around.

The best of Bali: top ways to find your own piece of paradise

Oct 29, 2023 • 8 min read

July 7, 2018: A male surfer inside the barrel of a wave at Padang Padang.

Surfing the "pipeline" at Padang Padang is just one way to get the Bali feeling © Wonderful Nature / Shutterstock

With its unique Hindu culture, dramatic tropical landscapes and long tradition of delightful hospitality, Bali is one of the most exciting places for activities on the planet.

Whether you like to surf, practice yoga, trek on volcanoes, dive pristine reefs or go white-water rafting, Bali offers all sorts of dynamic and fascinating experiences. On the “island of the gods,” you’ll find an opportunity for relaxation and pampering, too – it's not all about adventure and adrenaline.

To get you started, here's our pick of the best things to do on a trip to Bali.

Grab a surfboard and catch the Bali pipeline

Bali is celebrated as one of the top spots for surfing on the planet. While the island is legendary for world-class waves such as Uluwatu, Padang Padang (“the Balinese Pipeline”) and the aptly named Impossibles, countless other spots are perfect for intermediate surfers or beginners.

Canggu and Kuta Beach are the best hubs on the island for novice surfers. Canggu has plenty of board rental stands and surf schools offering lessons; check out Echo Beach for relatively mellow waves where you can find your feet. More board rental places and surf schools can be found along Kuta Beach, and the waves here are – under normal circumstances – even more chilled for learning.

However, a lot of beginners find out the hard way that high tide at Kuta brings steep, heavy shore-breakers that are often challenging even for experienced surfers. Aim to have your lessons close to low tide and save the tougher waves for later in your surfing career.

If you'd rather escape the crowds, Medewi in West Bali is one of Bali’s least-known waves. The point itself is covered in boulders, so it’s best for intermediate or experienced surfers, but you'll find 10km (6.2mi) of sandy-bottom beach breaks on either side of Medewi that rarely see another surfer.

Raft the white waters of the Ayung Valley

Jungle rivers cascade down from the volcanic highlands in the center of Bali, carving great ravines that are one of the most unexpected features of Bali’s geography. The southern hills are quite densely populated with these rivers, and rafting is often the best way to experience still-unspoiled jungle canyons.

Bali’s rivers may not offer the world’s most challenging rapids, but what you lose in adrenaline, you gain in the sheer pleasure of seeing the Ubud area from a totally unexpected angle. It’s hard to believe that such pristine forest valleys can exist just a stone’s throw from bustling Ubud town.

Mason Adventures is one of the most reputable rafting companies and runs the longest rafting trips along the Ayung Valley, clocking in at 12km (7.5mi). You can combine an Ayung Valley rafting trip with a 30km (18.5mi) mountain bike tour that runs almost entirely downhill.

Go on “safari” in Bali’s wild west

It's different in West Bali. Away from the crowds, you can watch in awe as critically endangered Bali starlings flit overhead while wild ebony leaf monkeys loop through the canopy and giant monitor lizards flick their tongues to taste the air. Herds of Menjangan deer even come right up to the beach bungalows – they’re famous for coming to cool their heels in the shallows.

You can only visit West Bali National Park with a guide, but even if you’re traveling independently outside the reserve, it’s impossible to shake the impression that West Bali has something fundamentally “wild” about it. To catch the mood, try trekking in the surprisingly arid hills of the cactus country or along the vineyard-filled north coast, or watch macaques run free at the many temples in the area.

Just east of the national park boundary, The Menjangan is the most unexpectedly wild resort on the entire island. Even if you’re not staying here, you can rent cycles and book guided walks and horse-riding and birdwatching tours.

Align your chakras and live the yogi dream

Yoga has been practiced on the Hindu island of Bali for over 1000 years, but the boom years for commercial yoga began in the early years of this century. Ubud in particular has made a name for itself as Southeast Asia's yoga capital.

Yoga Barn , which began with one humble yoga shall (practice space) in 2007, has grown to become a fixture on the Ubud scene, with seven studios running a whopping 130 classes a week. There’s a restaurant, a cafe, a yoga store and even accommodations for students who come here for teacher training or specialist courses.

More low-key, offering only 60 classes a week, Radiantly Alive has become a firm favorite with local yogis in the know. It’s located on a quiet alleyway in the old town and is popular with students who enjoy a more intimate, communal atmosphere. Radiantly Alive also has a yoga studio in Canggu.

An underwater view of coral reef formations as a young woman snorkels overhead © Dudarev Mikhail / Shutterstock

Dive Bali’s tropical waters surrounded by splendor

Lying at the center of the Coral Triangle, Indonesia boasts some of the richest marine habitats on the planet, and Bali has its share of top diving and snorkeling spots. The entire north coast, which is spared the waves of the south, is a watery wonderland for diving and snorkeling aficionados. The island of Nusa Lembongan is a good place to start; Bali Hai runs diving day trips to “Manta Alley” and other local sites, as well as full PADI certification courses.

Menjangan Island off Bali’s northwest tip also offers world-class diving without the crowds. You'll see the entire spectrum of reef fish alongside turtles, reef sharks and, if you’re lucky, dolphins and whale sharks. The Menjangan rents kayaks and can arrange guided diving and snorkeling trips to the island.

Chill out at a private Bali beach club

Bali is famed for its beaches, and the island has a surprising number of wild, often deserted strands alongside busy “town beaches” such as Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu. If you tire of the crowded sand, a day at a private beach club can be an unforgettable experience.

Potato Head in Seminyak has become a Balinese icon. Much more than just a beach club, this lively spot has two infinity pools, a music venue and several landmark restaurants, including Ijen, Bali’s first zero-waste restaurant. Along the beach from Potato Head, Mrs Sippy boasts Bali’s biggest saltwater pool and brands itself as a Mediterranean-inspired oasis.

Over at Canggu, Finns Beach Club has become a Bali institution, with five bars (including two sunken pool bars), three restaurants and a live music space, all spread across a beautifully designed property between two pools and the ocean.

If you’re in Sanur, check out Byrdhouse Beach Club , a vibrant extension to the lovely Segara Village Hotel , run by the same local family since the 1950s. Byrdhouse features a 25m-long infinity pool, spacious beachfront lawns, quality dining spaces and what is probably the best Jacuzzi cocktail bar you’ll ever find.

A woman gazes across a lush valley from the edge of an infinity pool © bogdanhoda / Shutterstock

Pamper yourself in a holistic Bali spa

Whether you choose to bliss out with an après-surf massage on the beach or have a marathon all-day pampering session in a five-star spa, Bali takes vacation relaxation to the next level. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan and Fivelements Retreat near Ubud are open to non-guests and rank among the best spa and wellness retreats on the planet.

The Sacred River Spa at the Four Seasons has it all: spa treatments, traditional healers and chakra ceremonies in spellbinding surroundings overlooking the Ayung Valley. Fivelements specializes in holistic treatments inspired by Balinese traditions, with a focus on plant-based cuisine, sacred arts and romantic day experiences that are perfect for couples. Both spots also offer yoga and other wellness packages.

Glo Spa Bali is also highly recommended for its massages and beauty treatments, which attract plenty of repeat visitors. If you’re traveling on a budget, head to one of the Yes Spa Bali establishments in Kuta or Legian, where you can enjoy excellent traditional Balinese massages for less than US$8.

Walk with pink buffaloes on a paddy field tour

Water buffalo have become increasingly rare in Bali since mechanized farm tools took the place of plows, but you can still spot a few of Bali's rare pink buffalo hard at work in the fields, particularly in West Bali. Join a half-day guided paddy walk with pink buffaloes near Pekutatan for fascinating insights into the role that these magnificent creatures play in the rice-growing cycle, and the complex rituals behind rice farming on the island.

Woman watching the sun rise from the top of Mt Batur

Climb up Batur volcano at sunrise

The 1717m (5633ft) summit of the Batur volcano is perhaps the best place to take in the sunrise on an island that Indian statesman Jawaharlal Nehru called the “morning of the world.” From the crater rim, the view takes in Mt. Agung – the island’s highest peak and the spiritual abode of the gods in Balinese culture – and Mt. Rinjani on distant Lombok .

You’ll have to set your alarm incredibly early to witness the splendor. Most tours start with a hotel pickup between 1am and 2am so hikers can complete the 3.5km (2.2mi) trek and be up at the summit by sunrise.

Photograph Asia’s most colorful traditional fishing fleet

The fleet of selerek (traditional Balinese fishing boats) at Perancak inlet are one of the most astounding – and least known – sights on the entire island. Looking like day-glow Viking longboats with curiously decorated crow’s nests (many shaped like chariots) and longtail engines spiking out from their vibrantly colorful hulls, these boats will astound any visitor who takes the trouble to reach this unspoiled corner of West Bali.

Overview of flooded rice terraces near Ubud

Stroll across the emerald expanses of Jatiluwih Paddies

Lying just 15km (9.3mi) north of Ubud, the pretty rice terraces of Tegallalang are a prime tourist destination. But with each passing year, more development comes to Tegallalang, and at sunset especially, it’s hard to soak up the beauty of the valley with all the noise from honking tour buses.

For a better introduction to the great paddy landscapes that cover less-visited parts of Bali, head for the immense Jatiluwih terraces, around 40km (25 miles) northwest. This idyllic stretch of countryside is perfect for wandering alone, but consider hiring a local guide if you want to understand the intricacies of the 1000-year-old subak irrigation system , which is inscribed on Unesco’s cultural heritage list.

This article was first published Aug 23, 2012 and updated Oct 29, 2023.

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Bali

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Mar 30, 2022

Bali is one of the most evocative places to visit in the entire Indonesian archipelago. A visit here sparks the senses. The intoxicating fragrance of incense and clove oil hangs in the thick tropical air. Peanuts sizzle at roadside stalls, petal-strewn offerings smolder on busy sidewalks, and traditional gamelan music jangles against the buzz of mopeds.

Picturesque Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple in Bali

Despite the clamor and chaos of the main tourist areas, the island is rich in natural beauty, with attractions for every kind of traveler. Surfers come for the legendary swells, hikers can trek up jungly volcanic peaks to misty waterfalls, and cyclists can bike through lush landscapes bristling with rice terraces and dotted with traditional villages.

The island's rich arts scene is another top draw, and if relaxation is your top priority, the spa treatments and shopping in Bali are fabulous – and affordable. Spirituality adds yet another layer to Bali's allure, and visiting the magnificent temples and sacred Hindu ceremonies are top things to do in Bali.

Since the famous book and film Eat, Pray, Love spotlighted this enchanting island, the tourist throngs have undeniably swelled, but you can still experience Old Bali if you stray off the beaten track. Find the best things to do, and some of the island's hidden gems, with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Bali.

Pura Tanah Lot

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About 20 kilometers northwest of Kuta, Pura Tanah Lot ("Pura" means temple in Balinese) is one of Bali's most iconic temples. Its spectacular seaside setting, on a rocky islet surrounded by crashing waves, is a major wow factor.

For the Balinese people, it is one of the most sacred of all the island's sea temples. Every evening, throngs of tourists from Kuta, Legian, and Sanur find their way through a labyrinth of lanes lined by souvenir sellers to watch the sun setting behind the temple.

Pura Tanah Lot was built at the beginning of the 16th century and is thought to be inspired by the priest Nirartha, who asked local fishermen to build a temple here after spending the night on the rock outcrop.

Although foreigners can't enter any of the temples in the complex, you can walk across to the main temple at low tide. It's also fun to wander along the paths, taking photos and soaking up the magnificent setting.

From Tanah Lot, you can stroll along tropically landscaped pathways to beautiful Batu Bolong , another sea temple perched on a rock outcrop with an eroded causeway connecting it to the shore.

After viewing the various temples and shrines, save time to relax at one of the clifftop restaurants and cafés here and sample the famous Kopi luwak (civet coffee) . In some of the cafés, friendly civets snooze on the tables, offering fun Instagram-worthy photo ops.

When visiting any temples in Bali, be sure to dress respectfully, and wear a sarong and sash.

Every day in Bali's predawn darkness, hundreds of visitors begin the trek up the 1,700-meter summit of Mount Batur. Once at the top, they watch the sun rise above the lush mosaic of mist-shrouded mountains and the caldera far below. If you're looking for romantic things to do in Bali for couples, this should be top on your list.

This sacred active volcano lies in Kintamani District in Bali's central highlands, about an hour's drive from Ubud. The hike, along well-marked trails, is relatively easy and usually takes about two to three hours. Guided treks typically include a picnic breakfast, with eggs cooked by the steam from the active volcano. On a clear day, the views are spectacular, stretching all the way across the Batur caldera; the surrounding mountain range; and beautiful Lake Batur, the island's main source of irrigation water.

Sturdy hiking shoes are essential, and it's advisable to wear layers, as the temperature can be cool before sunrise.

You can also combine a trip here with a visit to one of Bali's most important temples, Pura Ulun Danu Batur, on the lake's northwest shore, and a therapeutic soak in hot springs at the beautiful village of Toya Bungkah on the banks of Lake Batur.

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is one of the Bali's most famous temples, thanks to its magnificent clifftop setting. It presides over plunging sea cliffs above one of Bali's best surf spots.

In Balinese, "Ulu" means "tip" or "land's end," and "Watu" means rock, a fitting name for the location of the temple on the Bukit Peninsula, along the island's southwestern tip. Like Pura Tanah Lot, sunset is the best time to visit , when the sky and sea glow in the late afternoon light.

Archaeological finds here suggest the temple is of megalithic origin, dating from around the 10th century. The temple is believed to protect Bali from evil sea spirits, while the monkeys who dwell in the forest near its entrance are thought to guard the temple from bad influences (keep your belongings securely stashed away from their nimble grasp).

A scenic pathway snakes from the entrance to the temple, with breathtaking viewpoints along the way. Only Hindu worshippers are allowed to enter the temple, but the beautiful setting and the sunset Kecak dance performances that take place here daily are more than worth the visit.

The temple lies about 25 kilometers from Kuta.

Visiting the Monkey Forest, also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is one of the top things to do in Ubud, Bali. It's also one of the best places to visit in Bali if you're an animal lover or photographer. You can walk here in about 10 minutes from the town center in Ubud.

Besides the entertaining troops of grey long-tailed macaques that make their home here, a large part of the appeal is the evocative jungle setting where the monkeys roam free. Paved pathways lead through thick forests of giant banyan and nutmeg trees, where moss-covered statues and ancient temples loom through the dense foliage, imparting an almost mystical feel.

The forest is intended to represent the harmonious coexistence between humans and animals. It also conserves rare plants and is used as a location for researching macaque behavior, particularly their social interaction.

On the southwest side of the forest is one of the three temples found here: the 14th-century Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal . Here, hundreds of monkeys swing through the trees and clamber over the walls.

Carved deities in the Ubud Monkey Forest

In the northwest of the forest, an ancient bathing temple, Pura Beji , nestles next to a cool stream and makes a beautiful backdrop for watching the monkeys' antics.

While visiting the forest, make sure to secure your belongings, and avoid direct eye contact with the animals (and smiling), as this can be interpreted as a sign of aggression. It's also a good idea not to bring any food into the area.

Address: Jalan Monkey Forest, Padangtegal, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali

Official site: http://monkeyforestubud.com/

Made famous by the book and movie Eat, Pray, Love , Ubud is also the epicenter of Balinese art and culture. This is where the modern Balinese art movement was born, with the surrounding royal palaces and temples acting as the main patrons.

Today, several excellent local museums and galleries celebrate its evolution and traditions. Art gazing is particularly rewarding here, as many collections are housed in traditional Balinese buildings surrounded by serene tropical gardens.

For an overview of Balinese art, your first stops should be Agung Rai Museum of Art ( ARMA) and the Neka Art Museum, which lie within a short stroll of the Ubud Monkey Forest. Collections at both include works ranging from traditional to contemporary, including kris (ceremonial daggers), photography, and classical wayang (puppet-figure) paintings.

Other art galleries and museums in the Ubud area that might be of interest to art lovers include Setia Darma House of Masks & Puppets featuring ceremonial masks from Asia and beyond; Museum Puri Lukisan, spanning a range of Balinese artistic styles; and the Don Antonio Blanco Museum, at the artist's former home and studio.

If shopping for art is more your style, don't miss the Ubud Art Market. This labyrinth of stalls brims with carvings, sculptures, jewelry, sarongs, paintings, and homewares and is one of the top tourist attractions in Ubud. Bargaining is essential, and a good rule of thumb is to counter with half the asking price and barter upwards from there, always with a smile.

Ornate carved door in the Puri Saren Royal Ubud Palace

Opposite the market, the Puri Saren Royal Ubud Palace is also worth a visit. Attending a traditional Balinese dance performance during the evening here is one of the top things to do in Bali at night – especially for families. The colorful costumes and hypnotic music will dazzle young and old. During the day, it's a beautiful place to photograph some of the architectural features, and stroll through the gardens.

Looking for things to do in Bali with kids to soak up the local culture? Sign up for an art workshop at a local village. Traditional painting, mask-making, and jewelry making are just some of the activities that might appeal to creative young minds.

Want to visit the beautiful emerald-hued rice fields that you see on all the Bali tourist brochures and Instagram posts? The Tegallalang or Jatiluwih rice terraces should be at the top of your sightseeing list — especially if you're a photographer.

About a 30-minute drive north of Ubud, Tegallalang Rice Terraces are one of the most famous areas to photograph these iconic landscapes and absorb their timeless beauty. Be aware that locals ask for donations along the most popular trail through the rice fields here, and many request fees for entrance and parking along the road. A relaxing way to enjoy the lush landscapes is at one of the many restaurants and cafés overlooking the fields.

About a 90-minute drive from Ubud, the Jatiluwih rice terraces cover more than 600 hectares of rice fields along the hillsides of the Batukaru mountain range and tend to be less crowded than Tegallalang. You'll also find fewer tourist touts here, so it's easier to walk around and explore without being hassled.

Both of these locations use the traditional water management cooperative called "subak," a UNESCO-recognized irrigation system that dates to the 9th century .

The 17th-century Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is one of Bali's most picturesque temple complexes. It sits on a small island along the western shore of Lake Bratan, in the cool highlands of central Bali. Set against the imposing backdrop of Gunung Bratan, the thatched temples reflect on the lake, and when the water levels rise, they seem to float on its surface.

Lake Bratan is one of Bali's main sources of irrigation and drinking water, and the temple complex is dedicated to Dewi Danu, goddess of the sea and lakes.

An unusual feature is the Buddhist stupa on the left of the entrance to the first courtyard, with figures of Buddha meditating in the lotus position in niches on the square base. The stupa reflects the adoption of Buddhist beliefs by Balinese Hindus.

The best time to visit this sacred Hindu temple complex is early in the day, before the tourist buses arrive. The temple is especially picturesque in the soft morning light, when cool mist sometimes cloaks the lake and the mountains beyond. You can also hire a canoe and paddle out on the lake to explore the meru (thatched shrines) at close range.

Not far from the temple complex, the Bali Botanic Garden (Kebun Raya Bali) is also worth a visit, with its beautiful bamboo forests, begonias, orchid collection, and medicinal plants.

Address: Jalan Bedugul - Singaraja, Candikuning, Baturiti, Kabupaten Tabanan

Bali is known for its flamboyant designers and fabulous shopping, and you'll find the best examples of Balinese design along the busy streets of Seminyak. Cutting-edge designer fashion, surf and swimwear, jewelry, furniture, and homewares are just some of the items you can buy at the chic shops and busy market stalls here.

Top boutiques include Biasa , Magali Pascal, and Bamboo Blonde . Sea Gypsy is a favorite for jewelry, and Drifter Surf Shop & Cafe offers a collection of surf and skateboard gear.

The two main shopping malls are Seminyak Square and Seminyak Village , but you'll probably find better deals in the smaller shops lining the streets.

Looking for a real bargain? Head to the Seminyak Flea Markets near Seminyak Square, where you'll find stalls crammed with clothing, jewelry, carvings, and handicrafts.

Seminyak is also home to some of Bali's best beach resorts, restaurants, and art galleries.

Want an escape from Bali's urban buzz? Nusa Dua Beach is your answer. Here, you can recline on a comfortable sun lounger, cool drink in hand, and listen to the gentle slosh of surf on silky, white sands. You won't get that cultural hit you'll find elsewhere in Bali – this is a gated resort area on its own private peninsula after all, but if it's peace and relatively pristine sands you seek, you'll find it here, at one of Bali's best beaches .

Some of Bali's best luxury beach resorts preside over this sweeping stretch of shore, and resort staff work hard to keep the sand clean and clear of trash. Popular things to do at Nusa Dua include strolling for miles along the shore, swimming, surfing, parasailing, and sunbathing, but you might need to pay a fee or eat at one of the resorts to use their sun loungers. Still, if you're after a top Bali beach experience, Nua Dua ticks the box.

When you tire of the beach, you can sign up for some pampering at a posh resort spa or browse the chic shops at Bali Collection, an open-air shopping mall. A paved promenade skirts the shore for off-sand strolling between the resorts and attractions. With all this relaxation on tap, no wonder Nusa Dua is one of the top places to visit in Bali for a honeymoon.

More than a thousand years old, Pura Besakih is known as the Mother Temple for a reason: It's the holiest Hindu temple complex in Bali – and the biggest.

Set in a spectacular location on the southern slopes of Mount Agung, at an altitude of 1,000 meters, Pura Besakih is actually a series of many different temples, which serve as the spiritual center for the Balinese people. Pura Penataran Agung is the largest.

Lush rice paddies and forests ring this temple complex, and many important festivals take place here; you might be lucky enough to see one during your visit.

Plan to spend about three hours touring the temples. It's also a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes – you'll need to walk a fair distance and climb many stairs.

Insider's Tip: Locals trying to sell sarongs, incense, guiding services, and various other items bombard visitors at the gates here, but your ticket includes everything that you'll need during your visit. The best time to visit Pura Besakih is early in the morning before the tourist buses arrive.

Craving a slower-paced Bali, without the crowds, traffic, and tourist touts? The Nusa Islands are where you'll find it. They are also a great place in Bali for couples who crave a little more serenity than they might find on the mainland.

The most popular of the three islands is Nusa Lembongan, about 20 kilometers offshore from Sanur and easily accessible by speedboat. Surfing, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding are the main activities here, and the top attractions include beautiful Dream Beach ; Mushroom Bay ; and the Devil's Tears rock outcrop, with views of crashing surf erupting over the rocks. Many locals still make their living from seaweed farming, and you can watch them harvesting it by the shore.

The neighboring island, Nusa Ceningan , lies just over a bridge from Nusa Lembongan, with a beautiful blue lagoon.

The largest of the island trio, Nusa Penida , is a quick boat ride away. Rock formations, caves, and a bird sanctuary are Nusa Penida's top draws, and diving is one of the most popular things to do here, with the chance to see manta rays, sunfish, and turtles. Don't miss the steep hike down to Kelinking Beach , also known as T-Rex Bay, to bask on your own slice of golden sand, backed by soaring sea cliffs – it's one of the top beaches in Asia .

Accommodation on the islands ranges from rustic huts to luxury villas.

Yes, it's crowded and persistent hawkers stalk the beach, but this famous stretch of sand, along with neighboring Legian and Seminyak Beaches just to the north, is one of the most happening places to visit in Bali. You'll have a fun day out here – especially if you're a beginner surfer or you just want to soak up the scene.

You can book surf lessons and rent surfboards, boogie boards, sun loungers, and umbrellas directly from vendors set up on the sand, and plenty of cafés and restaurants border the beach. Beach vendors are easily dissuaded with a polite "no thank you," but an icy cold coconut sloshing with juice served directly to your sun lounger can be a blessing on a sultry day.

Kuta Beach is one of the best places for young travelers who are looking for a livelier vibe than the sleepy beach resorts offer.

For a more peaceful slice of coast on the island, head to the soft sands of Sanur Beach , Jimbaran Beach, or Nusa Dua ( Geger Beach here has public access ) .

Surfers should check out Dreamland , Canggu , Balangan , Bingin , Padang-Padang , or the cliff-fringed hidden coves of Uluwatu .

If you've ever seen the famous Instagram photo of people at the Gates of Heaven and wondered about the location, Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang is where they posed. Often just called "Lempuyang Temple" (Pura Lempuyang), this famous structure is actually one of a series of temples peppering the highlands of Mount Lempuyang. Tourists come here to capture a photo standing between the towering dragon staircases, which frame the misty peak of Mount Agung.

If you have time, it's worthwhile visiting the other temples while you're here. Pura Luhur Lempuyang is one of Bali's most sacred temples, and one of the hardest to access. Ready for some exercise? The temple lies at the top of a calf-sculpting hike up 1,700 steps through the steamy jungle to almost 1,200 meters above sea level. Keep an eye out for the grey long-tailed macaques scampering around the forest along the way.

The hike to Pura Luhur Lempuyang usually takes around 1.5 to two hours, depending on your fitness level, but once at the top, you'll be rewarded with the mystical beauty of an ancient relic – and spectacular views. Not up for the hike? You might be able to pay a local to whisk you to the end of the asphalt road on a motorbike to shorten the trek.

Insider tip: Try to visit on a clear day for the best views, and bring a sarong, otherwise you might have to rent one at the temple. Also note that local villagers request "donations" at this famous spot.

About 90 minutes' drive northeast of Ubud, the emerald-hued Sidemen Valley evokes the feel of Old Bali, before the tourist throngs descended on the island. Sleepy villages snuggle in the valley amid cascading rice terraces, and cloud-capped Mount Agung looms in the background like a benevolent sentry.

A highlight of a visit here is strolling around the small villages. This is where the locals still tend to their traditional activities, surrounded by farmland and rice paddies. You can also hike through the countryside to the summit of Mount Agung, or trek through the rice fields and lush countryside past cocoa and coffee plantations.

Other popular things to do here include rafting the rivers; yoga retreats ; and taking part in cultural activities such as dancing, carving, or traditional weaving.

Bali homestays and B&Bs are particularly popular in this area, but you'll also find some luxury villas overlooking the rice fields.

Sekumpul Waterfall is considered by many to be Bali's most beautiful waterfall . Located in the Singaraja region, about 66 kilometers north of Ubud, this tucked-away tourist attraction is actually a series of about seven falls, cascading like long misty veils over the lip of a lush, jungle-clad cliff.

Note that if you choose to drive yourself here, locals might try and stop you well before the entrance, demanding exorbitant entrance and parking fees. It's a good idea to hire a local guide who knows how to negotiate these roadblocks and access the correct trailhead to the falls.

The three- to four-hour round-trip trek passes by rice terraces and local villages rimmed with rambutan and durian trees, and continues through dense tropical jungle. It can be strenuous in parts, as you need to hike down slippery steps and slosh through a river, but once you arrive, you can cool off with a refreshing swim at the base of the falls.

This is a great adventure for nature lovers who want a taste of wild Bali far from the touristy resorts.

Dating from around 960 CE, Tirta Empul Temple (Pura Tirta Empul) in the lush tropical forest of Central Bali, offers a glimpse into a sacred purification ritual.

This important temple complex, a national cultural heritage site , is divided into three courtyards. The focal point is the large, rectangular pool, fed by a holy mountain spring, where locals come to pray and soak in the healing waters that gush from a series of sculpted spouts.

If you wish to join the locals in the cleansing ritual, it's best to ask an experienced guide first to make sure you respect the customs. You must enter the water fully clothed, wearing a sarong and sash, and it's best to explore the temple complex first, as you are not allowed to drip water in the courtyards.

The best times to visit Tirta Empul Temple are early morning and late afternoon.

Wondering about places to visit in Bali with the family? Plan a day at Waterbom Bali. This action-packed water park, in the heart of Kuta, has something for every member of the family. Kids can splash in the swimming pools; drift down the Lazy River; or zoom down one of the many twisting water slides and rides, with names like the Python, Green Viper, and Super Bowl.

Moms and dads can relax with a reflexology session, manicure or pedicure, or fish spa therapy. Restaurants and cafés cater to a range of different diets, and the grounds are landscaped with large, shady trees and beautiful tropical gardens, making this a refreshing respite from the heat on a hot tropical day.

Ever wanted to try wakeboarding, waterskiing, kneeboarding, or skurfing (a cross between surfing and waterskiing) in a relatively safe environment? Bali Wake Park is the place to visit for this and more exhilarating water park fun. Kids will love Aqualand here – it's a giant inflatable obstacle course on the lake.

Official site: http://waterbom-bali.com/

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19 Best Things to Do in Bali

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There’s an unspoken rule in Bali: Where there are iconic ancient Hindu temples and tropical panoramas, a deluge of tourists is sure to follow. But don’t let this deter you from exploring the Indonesian island’s largess of cultural treasures—sites like the cliffside Uluwatu Temple and the sacred pools of Tirta Empul maintain their enrapturing qualities no matter the visitor count. If you need a primer on Bali’s essential sights (with tips to side-step the madding crowd) along with a few hidden and up-and-coming gems, you've come to the right place. Here is our list of the very best things to do in Bali.

Click the link to read our complete Bali guide .

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In Bali, the words “south” and “secluded” are rarely uttered in the same sentence, but Nyang Nyang Beach, in Uluwatu, indeed fills the bill. White sands, greenery-lined cliffs, and the astonishing absence of crowds await—if you're dedicated enough to find it. Who knows, you might get lucky and have the coast all to yourself. If you’ve lamented how overrun Bali’s main beaches have become nowadays, Nyang Nyang is the respite you’ve been looking for.

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Gunung Kawi is an 11th-century complex of courtyards and cliff-carved shrines along the Pakerisan River, near Ubud . Theories and myths surround the ancient Hindu site—legend has it that a ferocious warrior named Kebo Iwa carved the intricate reliefs with his fingernails, for instance—which adds to its allure. Getting down to this jungle-enshrouded marvel will require some serious walking (there are some 300 steps), but the reward—especially in the quieter morning hours—is immense.

Indonesia Bali Market Sukawati Art Market

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Sukawati Art Market is a cheaper and quieter alternative to nearby Ubud Market and other popular locales in southern Bali. There is an impressive array of handcrafted artworks for sale, from framed paintings of local farm life to large wooden sculptures of Hindu deities. Without the intimidating crowds, it’s an ideal place to flex your bargaining skills on vibrant patterned dresses and accessories, home goods, and tote bags for all tastes.

Indonesia Bali Attraction Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall Arrow

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall, a recently opened Northern Bali attraction, is a little hard to get to. You'll need to drive at least 90 minutes from Ubud and take a winding, 20-minute hike through a banana plantation. But once you've completed the journey, you'll be rewarded handsomely with a lush forest hiding a quartet of grand waterfalls that are somehow not overrun by crowds. The main waterfall is the most spectacular—a verdant rock amphitheater with misty streams cascading down to a shallow pool.

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On an island full of natural beauty, Mount Batur (or “Gunung Batur”) and its serene surroundings might be the most dramatic destination of all. The 5,600-foot volcanic marvel contains Bali’s largest crater lake—a splendid cycling site and slopes ripe for hiking with picturesque villages along the way. The sunrise, as seen from the peak, is spectacular. Not for the faint of heart—or anyone who loathes early-morning wake-up calls—the ascent takes around two hours. But once you’ve reached the top, you might witness one of the most majestic mist-sheathed vistas you’ve ever seen.

Pura Lempuyang Luhur Arrow

Located far from the tourist hubbub of Ubud , Lempuyang Temple is a sacred seven-temple complex in eastern Bali best known for the Gateway to Heaven that perfectly frames the formidable Mount Agung, the island’s tallest peak. This is one of the most majestic sights in Bali—come for sunrise for the best, least crowdede results—and it’s also a significant Hindu temple. Entrance requires a donation, a sarong (also available on loan), and a 40,000 rupiah ($3) round-trip jeep shuttle up the steep mountainside.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall Arrow

Tukad Cepung, located in East Bali, is one of the island’s most photogenic falls, a small site leaving a major impression on travelers willing to scale the numerous steps and crossings to see it. The trump card here is drawcard is the natural light show which occurs in the earlier portion of the day. Arrive mid- to late morning for less crowded encounters, as snap-happy tourists start to flood the area by noon.

Indonesia Bali Temple Ubud Monkey Forest

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This tourist magnet might look like an open-air zoo attraction, but Ubud Monkey Forest is actually a holy site with a 1000-plus band of long-tailed Balinese macaques in their natural habitat. As cantankerous as some of the monkeys can be—dangling jewelry, bags, and conspicuous food will invite aggressive sticky fingers—the primates are considered sacred by Balinese Hindus who come to pray in the complex's three ancient temples.

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Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon, a Sukawati-based ravine and sacred Balinese site, feels hidden in plain sight. Beyond the ticketed entrance is a series of mid-rise canyons lining the Oos River: prepare to climb, wade, swim, and scale your way through a rocky-tropical landscape not seen anywhere else on the island. Guides are necessary for safety and if possible, avoid rainy season as the currents can rise to dangerous levels—the canyon closes on days when it’s especially hazardous.

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Making up part of the West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is a tiny, less-trodden gem eight miles off the northwestern coast of Bali. Nicknamed “Deer Island” for the numerous Javan rusa deer ambling about, it’s uncrowded and largely uninhabited, and its fringing coral reefs make it among the best diving and snorkeling spots in Greater Bali. On land, wild but approachable deer sashay around the island and take chest-high dips in the beach water.

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Tegalalang Rice Terrace, 20 minutes north of Ubud , is one of Bali’s most photogenic—and most-visited—destinations. The UNESCO World Heritage Site contains wide, undulating layers of rice paddies, kept alive by an ancient, sophisticated irrigation system and farmers who tend the terraces just as previous generations have done for millennia. You can explore this area freely. Take a short stroll or navigate its entire length; descend to some of the lower slopes (if the farmers don’t mind) for a different vantage point; or grab a seat at an open-air cafe when you need a break.

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Uluwatu Temple, in Bali’s extreme south in Pecatu Village, is a crucial ancient site that has protected Hindu islanders from evil spirits since 900 AD. Its location is the main draw for tourists: some 230 feet up on a precipitous cliff’s edge, with the powerful waves of Uluwatu Beach lapping at its base. The sunsets here are among Bali’s most sensational. As an add-on, the daily kecak dance performances (about $7), with chants, costumed performances, and rings of fire, make the setting even more enchanting.

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Tirta Empul (“Holy Spring”), an important sacred water temple for more than 1,000 years, contains a warren of shrines, gates, courtyards, and purification pools where Balinese Hindus “baptize” themselves underneath a succession of waterspouts. Equally popular with travelers, the temple commands a 15,000 rupiah ($1) entry fee and the wearing of a sarong.

Banyumala Twin Waterfalls Bali Indonesia

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Tucked deep in the lush North Bali highlands are the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, a mighty pair of 11-story-tall falls that cascade into a natural pool. The far-out location—at least two hours from the main drags of Ubud and Seminyak—and the steep hike keep the crowds delightfully low. This spot is perfect for anyone in search of Bali’s raw natural beauty—sans the typical tourist pack. Come early to maximize your time.

Thomas Beach Arrow

Thomas Beach, located in the south of Bali not far from Uluwatu, is a long, sprawling, white-sand beach flanked by willowy palm trees. It's managed to keep itself a well-guarded secret, drawing only the most curious travelers. The steps down to the beach put some visitors off—those who do manage them will find all the more space to spread out and sip on fresh coconut water from one of the vendors.

Tirta Gangga Arrow

Although Tirta Gangga ($2 entry), a former palace turned lavish water gardens, looks like it has existed for several centuries, it was actually conceived in 1946 by the royal Karangasem family. But its far-reaching east Bali location hasn’t stopped travelers from exploring its magical fountains, shrubs, sculptures, and flowers, or positioning themselves on the octagonal stepping stones and feeding the carp. There are also stone spring water pools and you can even swim in one of them.

Echo Beach Arrow

Echo Beach, Batu Bolong' s immediate northern neighbor, shares a lot of its attributes; among them, charcoal brown sand, stellar surf breaks, and bounteous eating and drinking options. But Echo feels less developed, and the waves are bigger and better for surf enthusiasts. Locals and an increasing number of tourists are congregating here more, but you’ll still have ample breathing space to lay, gaze, meander, or dip your toes in the water.

Sekumpul Waterfall Arrow

If exploring Bali’s paradiscal scenery is a priority, a visit to Sekumpul Waterfall is practically essential. It is considered by many to be the island’s finest waterfall destination. Like most North Bali waterfalls, accessing Sekumpul will require some sweat. It’ll take around an hour to walk the trails and make your way down the verdant ravine, but once you do you'll be rewarded with a vast expanse of idyllic tropical landscapes, and grand-scale falls, which appear to pour from the heavens.

Pantai Pasir Putih Arrow

Wedged between two headlands, Pantai Pasir Putih (or White Sand Beach) is known as one of Bali’s best “secret” beaches—though the word has definitely gotten out. Those in the know travel here to east Bali to enjoy a more laid-back experience and access to perfectly blue waters—attributes hard to come by in the popular western beaches. The water is more than fine: the clarity is among the best seen around the island, and is calm enough for leisurely swims and snorkels.

Recommended

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3 Other destinations
4.1 History
4.2 Culture
4.3 Festivals
4.5 Climate
4.7 Electricity
4.8 Tourism information centres
6.1.1 Get to/from the airport
6.3 By boat
7.2 By taxi
7.3 By bemo
7.4 By car or motorbike
7.5 By rental car with a driver
7.6 By bicycle
8.1 Temples
8.2 Landscape
8.4 Monuments
9.1 Water activities
9.2 Other sports, adventure and family activities
11.1 Balinese food
11.2 Dietary restrictions
11.3 Prices
13.1 Private villas
13.2 Long-term
14.2 "Turtle Island" scam
14.3 Satria Agrowisata
15 Stay healthy
17.1 Area codes
17.2 Emergency
18.1 Consulates

With world-class diving and surfing, a range of natural, cultural and historical attractions, and plentiful accommodation options, it is one of the most popular island destinations in the world. Bali offers something to almost every visitor from the backpacking youth to the ultra-wealthy. Its majority- Hindu population also stands in contrast to much of the rest of majority- Muslim Indonesia.

-8.671667 115.233889 1 Denpasar — a bustling city, the administrative centre and transport hub of the island but not a major tourist destination
-8.5 115.56667 2 Candidasa — a quiet coastal town, the Bali Aga and gateway to the east coast
-8.723486 115.171275 3 Kuta — surfer central, by far the most heavily developed area in Bali. Lots of shopping and nightlife and the centre of lower-end party culture on Bali
-8.769444 115.173889 4 Jimbaran — close to the airport, seaside resorts, a nice sheltered beach and seafood restaurants south of Kuta
-8.705 115.168611 5 Legian — popular beach town between Kuta and Seminyak ; also the name of Kuta's main street
-8.162503 115.025661 6 Lovina — beautiful black volcanic sand beaches and coral reefs
-8.683333 115.266667 7 Sanur — seaside resorts and beaches popular with older families
-8.690556 115.165833 8 Seminyak — quieter, more upscale beachside resorts and villas just to the north of Legian, with some fashionable upscale restaurants and trendy designer bars and dance clubs
-8.507 115.262 9 Ubud — the centre of art and dance in the foothills, with several museums, the monkey forest and lots of arts and crafts shops

Other destinations

-8.33333 115.65 1 Amed — a long strip of peaceful, traditional fishing villages featuring black sand beaches, coral reefs and excellent diving
-8.283333 115.166667 2 Bedugul — pretty lakes in the mountains, a golf course, the botanical gardens and the famous Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
-8.8109 115.1691 3 Bukit Peninsula — the southernmost tip of Bali with world class surfing, great beaches, and the can't-miss cliff-hanging Uluwatu Temple
-8.239 115.322028 4 Kintamani — active volcano Mount Batur, stunning mountain scenery, cooler temperatures and fruit growing
-8.341944 115.507778 5 Mount Agung — highest mountain in Bali and the mother temple of Besakih
-8.8025 115.2275 6 Nusa Dua — an enclave of high-end resorts and a long, golden sand beach
-8.681767 115.451117 7 Nusa Lembongan — an island known for its surfing, diving and snorkelling; a great place to relax
-8.733333 115.533333 8 Nusa Penida — wild, rugged, untamed and as off the beaten path as you will get on the island
-8.133333 114.483333 9 West Bali National Park — trekking, birdwatching and diving in Bali's only substantial protected natural area

Bali is one of more than 18,000 islands (based on a satellite view) in the Indonesian archipelago, and is just over 2 km (almost 1.5 miles) from the eastern tip of the island of Java and west of the island of Lombok . The island, home to a little over 4 million people, is about 144 km (89 mi) long from east to west and 80 km (50 mi) north to south.

The word "paradise" is used a lot when describing Bali. Friendly, hospitable people; a magnificently visual and spiritual culture; and spectacular beaches with great surfing and diving have made Bali the top tourist attraction in Indonesia. The vast majority of international visitors to Indonesia go nowhere else but Bali.

This popularity is not without its bad sides — once paradisiacal Kuta has degenerated into a congested warren of concrete, scammers and touts extracting a living by overcharging tourists. The island's visibility also drew the unwanted attention of terrorists in 2002 and 2005. However, Bali has managed to retain its magic. Bali is a marvellous destination with something for everyone, and though heavily visited, there are spots where you will be able to find serenity.

At peak season, before COVID-19, more than 400,000 foreign tourists flocked to Bali. A huge surge of domestic tourists arrived during school holidays (middle and end of year) & around the Eid season where it is practically quiet elsewhere in Indonesia. Fortunately, they can all be absorbed by a severe oversupply of hotels, which experts predicted will occur for at least a decade. Because of this however, a 4-star hotel room in Kuta, Legian and Seminyak can be reserved for just above US$20 per day, and last-minute deals can produce rates of less than US$20 per day!

As more travelers visit, especially due to the visa-free regime introduced by the Indonesian government, this small resort island has been striving to provide more modern attractions and facilities to travelers of different interests, while retaining the exotic traditional culture & natural beauty that has always been the point of interest for visitors. Highly frequented areas such as the south of the island have been gentrifying.

Bali has many narrow streets and traffic jams are common in Bali throughout the year, especially Kuta, Legian and the Seminyak area, Central Denpasar city, Gatot Subroto Timur, access to Gianyar and access to the east. Streets in Kuta and Legian and Seminyak have been made one-way. For a 500-m journey in the opposite direction of a one-way street, walking can get you there in 15 minutes; if you take your car, it might take up to a half hour. Please take care to allow enough time to catch your plane.

Hinduism first appeared in Bali as early as 100 BC, but the unique culture which is so apparent to any current day visitor to Bali hails largely from neighbouring Java combined with elements of Bali's distant animist past. The Javanese Majapahit Empire's rule over Bali became complete in the 14th century when Gajah Mada, Prime Minister of the Javanese king, defeated the Balinese king at Bedulu.

The rule of the Majapahit Empire resulted in the initial influx of Javanese culture, most of all in architecture, dance, painting, sculpture and the wayang puppet theatre . All of this is still very apparent today.

The very few Balinese who did not adopt this Javanese Hindu culture are known today as the Bali Aga ("original Balinese") and still live in the isolated villages of Tenganan near Candidasa and Trunyan on the remote eastern shore of Lake Batur at Kintamani .

With the rise of Islam throughout the Indonesian archipelago, the Majapahit Empire in Java fell and Bali became independent near the turn of the 16th century. The Javanese aristocracy found refuge in Bali, bringing an even stronger influx of Hindu arts, literature and religion.

Divided among a number of ruling rajas (kings), occasionally battling off invaders from now Muslim Java to the west and making forays to conquer Lombok to the east, the north of the island was finally captured by Dutch colonialists in a series of brutal wars from 1846 to 1849. Southern Bali was not conquered until 1906, and eastern Bali did not surrender until 1908. In both 1906 and 1908, many Balinese chose death over disgrace and fought en masse until the bitter end, often walking straight into Dutch cannons and gunfire. This manner of suicidal fighting to the death was known as puputan . Victory was bittersweet, as the images of the puputan highly tarnished the Dutch in the international community. Perhaps to make up for this, the Dutch did not make the Balinese enter into a forced cultivation system, as had happened in Java, and instead tried to promote Balinese culture through their policy of Baliseering or the "Balinisation of Bali" .

In 1945, Bali became part of the newly independent Republic of Indonesia. After the 1965 coup d'état that ushered in the Suharto regime, state-instigated, anticommunist violence spread across Indonesia. In Bali, it is said that the rivers ran red with the reprisal killings of suspected communists. The death toll is estimated to have been about 80,000 people, which was roughly 5% of Bali's population at the time.

The most recent chapter in Bali's history began in the 1970s when intrepid hippies and surfers discovered Bali's beaches and waves, and tourism soon became the biggest income earner. Despite the shocks of the terrorist attacks in 2002 and 2005, the island continues to draw crowds, and Bali's culture is as magnificent as ever.

Unlike most other islands in largely Muslim Indonesia, Bali is a pocket of Hindu religion and culture. Every aspect of Balinese life is suffused with religion, but the most visible signs are the tiny offerings ( canang sari ) found in every Balinese house, workplace, restaurant, souvenir stall and airport check-in desk. These leaf trays are made daily and can contain an enormous range of offering items: flowers, glutinous rice, cookies, salt, and even cigarettes and coffee! They are set out with burning incense sticks and sprinkled with holy water at least three times a day before every meal. Don't worry if you kick or step on one accidentally, as they are placed on the ground for this very purpose and will be swept away anyway.

Balinese Hinduism diverged from the mainstream well over 500 years ago and is quite different from what you would see in India and the rest of South Asia . The primary deity is Sanghyang Widi Wasa (Acintya), the "all-in-one god" for which other gods like Vishnu ( Wisnu ) and Shiva ( Civa ) are merely manifestations, and instead of being shown directly, he is depicted by an empty throne wrapped in the distinctive poleng black-and-white chessboard pattern and protected by a ceremonial tedung umbrella.

The Balinese are master sculptors . Temples and courtyards are replete with statues of gods and goddesses like Dewi Sri , the goddess of rice and fertility, as well as guardians and protecting demons like toothy Rakasa , armed with a club. These days though, entire villages like Batubulan have twigged onto the tourist potential and churn out everything imaginable from Buddhas to couples entwined in acrobatic poses for the export and souvenir market.

Balinese dance and music are also just as famous and a major attraction for visitors to the island. As on neighbouring Java , the gamelan orchestra and wayang kulit shadow puppet theatre predominate. Dances are extremely visual and dramatic, and the most famous include:

Barong or "lion dance" — a ritual dance depicting the fight between good and evil, with performers wearing fearsome lion-like masks. This dance is often staged specifically for tourists as it is one of the most visually spectacular and the storyline is relatively easy to follow. Barong dance performances are not hard to find.
Calonarang — a spectacular dance which is a tale of combating dark magic and exorcising the evil spirits aligned with the witch-queen Rangda. The story has many variations and rarely are two Calonarang plays the same. If you can find an authentic Calonarang performance, then you are in for a truly magical experience.
Kecak or "monkey dance" — actually invented in the 1930s by resident German artist Walter Spies for a movie, but a spectacle nonetheless. Up to 250 dancers in concentric circles chant "kecak kecak", while a performer in the centre acts out a spiritual dance. An especially popular Kecak dance performance is staged daily at Uluwatu Temple.
Legong Keraton — perhaps the most famous and feted of all Balinese dances. Performed by young girls, this is a dance of divine nymphs hailing from 12th century Java. Try to find an authentic Legong Keraton with a full-length performance. The short dance performances often found in tourist restaurants and hotels are usually extracts from the Legong Keraton.

There are an estimated 20,000 temples ( pura ) on the island, each of which holds festivals ( odalan ) at least twice a year. With many auspicious days throughout the year there are always festivities going on.

The large island-wide festivals are determined by two local calendars. The 210 day wuku or Pawukon calendar is completely out of sync with the Western calendar, meaning that the dates of festivals and events rotate wildly throughout the solar year. The lunar saka ( caka ) calendar roughly follows the Western year.

Funerals ( pitra yadnya ) are another occasion of pomp and ceremony, when the deceased (often several at a time) are ritually cremated in extravagantly colourful rituals ( ngaben ).
Galungan is a ten-day festival which comes around every 210 days and celebrates the death of the tyrant Mayadenawa. Gods and ancestors visit earth and are greeted with gift-laden bamboo poles called penjor lining the streets. The last day of the festival is known as Kuningan .
Nyepi , or the Hindu New Year , also known as the day of absolute silence, is usually celebrated sometime in March or April. If you are in Bali in the days preceding Nyepi, you will see amazing colourful giants ( ogoh ogoh ) being created by every banjar . On the eve of Nyepi, the ogoh ogoh parade through the streets, a breathtaking sight not to be missed. There are good reasons to avoid Nyepi as well, but for many travellers these will be outweighed by the privilege of experiencing such a unique annual festival. Absolutely everything on the island shuts down between 06:00 on the day of the new year and 06:00 the following morning, including the airport and ferry harbours, though emergency services will remain on standby and get out as needed. Tourists are confined to their hotels and asked to be as quiet as possible for the day. Getting out will risk being reprimanded by the community police ( pecalang ). As the precise date of Nyepi changes every year, and isn’t finally set until later in the preceding year, flights will be open for booking at first, only to be cancelled or moved accordingly. This also means altering all your travel arrangements to Bali.

All national public holidays in Indonesia are observed in Bali, although Ramadan does not have much of a fanfare here compared to the country's Muslim majority regions.

Bali's unique culture has been widely studied by anthropologists, both professional and amateur. Interested visitors and artists (some of whom made Bali their home) have also written about the island. Here's a reading shortlist:

Island of Bali (Periplus Classics Series), Miguel Covarrubias. When the Mexican artist Miguel Covarrubias wrote his outsider's impression of Balinese life and culture in 1937, he surely could not have imagined that well into the next century his work would still be considered the most authoritative text on the subject. Absolutely vital reading, and it is astounding how little has changed in Bali since this book was written. More on Covarrubias' time in Bali, including his wonderful paintings, can be found in the coffee table book Covarrubias in Bali (EDM Books) by Adrian Williams and Yu-Chee Chong.
A Short History of Bali: Indonesia's Hindu Realm (A Short History of Asia series), Robert Pringle. The history of Bali from pre-Bronze Age times to the start of the current millennium, and an examination of Bali's importance and relevance to modern-day Indonesia.
Bali Raw: An Expose of the Underbelly of Bali, Indonesia (Monsoon Books), Malcolm Scott. An Australian author, who lived in Bali for almost a decade, reveals the darker side of the island — the sometimes violent nightclub scene, rampant prostitution, the prevalence of AIDS and drug and alcohol-induced Western hooliganism.
A Little Bit One O'clock: Living with a Balinese Family (Ersania Books), William Ingram. A whimsical, insightful, and at times very touching account of an expatriate American living with a Balinese family in the 1990s.
The House of Our Ancestors (KITLV press), Thomas Reuter. Probably the most thorough and readable study of the Bali Aga , the pre-Majapahit indigenous Balinese.
A House in Bali (Tuttle), Colin McPhee. A classically trained musician who was spellbound when he heard a recording of Balinese gamelan music, McPhee travelled to Bali in the 1930s and wrote this superb insight into local music, life and culture. Still very relevant reading.
Our Hotel in Bali (January Books), Louise Coke. Recollections of an American couple who opened the first hotel on Kuta beach in the 1930s. A lively and entertaining read and a glimpse into the past when Kuta was a peaceful, unspoilt stretch of beach.

Daytime temperatures are pleasant, varying between 20–33⁰C (68–93⁰F) year-round. From December to March, the west monsoon can bring heavy showers and high humidity, but days are still often sunny with the rains starting in the late afternoon or evening and passing quickly. From June to September, the humidity is low and it can be quite cool in the evenings. At this time of the year there is hardly any rain in the lowland coastal areas.

Even when it is raining across most of Bali, you can often enjoy sunny, dry days on the Bukit Peninsula which receives far less rain than any other part of the island. On the other hand, in central Bali and in the mountains, you should not be surprised by cloudy skies and showers at any time of the year.

At higher elevations such as Bedugul or Kintamani , it gets distinctly chilly and you will need either a sweater or jacket after the sun sets.

Bali is in the UTC+8 time zone (known in Indonesia as WITA, Waktu Indonesia Tengah ), the same as Western Australia , Kuala Lumpur , Singapore , Philippines , China and Taiwan , and an hour ahead of Jakarta .

Electricity

Electricity is supplied at 220 V, 50 Hz. Outlets are the European standard CEE-7/7 "Schukostecker" or "Schuko" or the compatible, but non-grounded, CEE-7/16 "Europlug" types.

Tourism information centres

Tourism information , ☏ 166 (from a landline in Bali only), +62 361 166 (mobile) .
Bali Tourism Board , Jl Raya Puputan No. 41, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 235 600 , fax : +62 361 239200 .

Some major destinations in Bali have their own tourism offices; contact details are given in the relevant destination articles.

The native language of locals is Balinese , which is related to but not mutually intelligible with Indonesian . Because all Balinese people are bilingual in Balinese and Indonesian, and Indonesian is used more, particularly in daily conversations, learning Balinese is not essential to communicate. Nevertheless, locals are proud of their language, so efforts by visitors to speak Balinese will be warmly received by the locals. In tourist regions, English and some other foreign languages are widely spoken.

Effective February 14, 2024, all international tourists entering Bali need to pay a Rp 150,000 Tourist Levy . Local authorities strongly recommend paying the fee online before arrival in Bali, although cashless payment counters are available at the airport. Payment can be verified by showing the QR code you receive via email after payment. The Balinese government says this fee will help preserve Balinese culture and natural beauty.

See the Indonesia article for information about visa regulations.

Get to/from the airport

Transportation from the airport is not too bad but is far from perfect too. Some hotels organise free transfers from the airport, and plenty of public taxis are also available: go to the ticketing booth, on the right side just after the exit, buy a fixed fare ticket and a driver will be assigned to you trouble-free. However, the ticketing booth closes after the last flight arrival for the day and re-opens at 08:00, so anyone wanting an airport taxi during this period should be prepared to haggle or seek the alternatives described below.

If you are travelling on a restricted budget, you can flag down a Blue Bird Taxi from outside the airport area (but now it will take at least 8–10 minutes walk from the new International terminal, more from the Domestic; there's neither clearly signed way out, nor are there many people using this way), or try and catch a taxi dropping off passengers near Domestic terminal departures. Blue Bird Taxis are safe and reliable, and their metered fares are cheaper than the prepaid taxi fare (especially for shorter rides, e.g. Rp20,000–30,000 to Kuta). Depending on how much baggage you have and how bulky it is, you might want to evaluate whether all that extra effort is worth it to save a few dollars.

If you do make the effort to walk outside the airport to the street, you can also flag down a bemo (local minivan). Most of the bemos in this area will be heading to Kuta (the road to Kuta heads to the left looking out from the airport gate), but don't absolutely bank on it, and be prepared for a hot, crowded journey. It should cost no more than a few thousand rupiah per person (ask the driver beforehand). And if you are a lone backpacker you can try an ojek (unmetered motorcycle taxi) in the first intersection outside the airport (3 to 5 minutes walk), for less than half of a taxi meter fare. If you are not sure if a taxi can reach your hotel because of narrow streets, or you are unsure of your hotel's location, an ojek is a good option: they frequently take narrow streets as shortcuts, use pedestrian paths and sometimes go against traffic on theoretically one-way streets. An ojek to Kuta costs Rp10,000 to Rp15,000.

Another option is ride-share companies such as GoCar from Gojek and GrabCar. You can go to Kuta for about Rp 30,000; if you are traveling light, both also offers motorcycle pick up for about a half price than using the car. However, as they are not allowed to pick you up from the airport, the driver may prompt you to tell the security that you already have pickup arrangements, if asked. Alternatively, they can text or call you to meet them somewhere at or just off the airport.

The public bus service, Trans Sarbagita is one of the two public buses allowed to enter the airport. You can catch the bus at both the domestic and international arrivals. Bus stops are shaded but small, so be on the lookout or ask for directions. The fare is Rp3,500 from the airport, although it only stops at major roads and intersections and does not go into main hotel areas, so you will either need to walk or get a taxi from the nearest bus stop. For more information head to the get around by bus section of this article.

Another public bus is called Trans Metro Dewata . The line or corridor 02 serves the route from the airport to the downtown of Denpasar with numerous bus stops might be looked at Moovit app. The bus is the cheapest AC transportation because it is free of charge. An electronic money card like Brizzi , E-money , Flazz or TapCash is required.

There are direct bus services to Bali from all major cities on Java and Lombok that link with ferries for sea crossings. These are cheap and easy, but slow.

Perama bus company is a good option for budget travelers. There are no Perama bus from Java, only from Mataram , Lombok.

Various executive buses with air conditioning are available from some cities in Java, like Bandung , Jakarta , Semarang , Surabaya and Yogyakarta . The ticket can be easily booked from easybook , redbus and traveloka app or website.

Ferries cross from Ketapang on the island of Java to Gilimanuk in western Bali every 15 minutes, 24 hr every day. These are very cheap, and the crossing takes just 30 minutes (plus sometimes considerable waiting around for loading and unloading).

A number of speedboats and catamarans operate into Benoa Harbour near Kuta (~2 hr) and Padangbai (80 minutes) from the Gili Islands of Lombok . These are convenient for some travellers but are frequently priced much higher than the equivalent air crossing. Crossing times are subject to weather and other operational conditions and trip times can longer than those publicised. Benoa Harbour with 12 metre depth received more than 50 ships with more than 1,000 passengers and crew each a year.

Caution should be used in selecting a suitable operator and craft for a fast boat crossing to Lombok. Some of the operators on these routes use inappropriate equipment, overload the boats and have inadequate levels of crew training, personnel and safety equipment. The Lombok Strait fast boat crossing can be subject to inclement weather and equipment breakdowns. Boarding an overloaded craft or departing in adverse weather conditions may lead to serious disappointment. There are no operators offering craft suitable for open water all-weather crossings. Rather they are operating light duty hulled craft of fibreglass or aluminium construction powered by outboard petrol engines. On two previous occasions operators have introduced a more suitably specified and equipped craft powered by diesel inboard engines and with a more robust hull construction appropriate to open water use. Both these craft were withdrawn from service as operations could not be sustained in competition with the lower cost base alternatives. Several of these light duty craft have already sunk or been run onto a reef or beach to avoid foundering whilst carrying passengers. Fortunately they had not yet entered open waters at the time and nearby assistance was available. There have been no fatalities from these incidents.

There are also public ferries from Lembar , Lombok , to Padang Bai every few hours, with the trip taking around 3–4 hours. This service has notable safety, operational and equipment standards issues. Some ferries are better than others, or worse depending upon your perspective.

Delays are commonplace with public ferries due to loading and unloading issues. Services may be cancelled or postponed during periods of inclement weather, and sea crossings during the monsoon period can be uncomfortable or dangerous.

See the Gili Islands and Lombok articles for full details concerning travelling and arriving in Lombok and its nearby islands.

Cruise ships stop for tours, shopping, or to begin or end a cruise. Some ships still anchor off-shore toward the southeast side of the island and tender guests to shore. Modest sized ships can choose to dock at the port of Benoa not far from Denpasar , Kuta and Sanur . In 2018, 75 ships docked at Benoa Port. There the dock area is has an industrial pier with few amenities and no ATMs, but taxis and private car operators when cruise ships dock there. It also has a multi-purpose pier with an open-air terminal building. It has a currency exchange and modest concessionaires, taxis at the ready, and space for many medium buses for tours. At both piers, taxis for cruisers may have high fixed prices to popular destinations. They should instead use their meters, sometimes adding tolls when use of causeways necessary. Private cars for hire will often require patient negotiation on price.

Other ships also run from Candi Dasa and Amed, and the operators can pick up at Nusa Dua, Ngurah Rai International Airport and even Ubud. But only few of the operators can serve flop destinations such as visiting 2 or 3 destinations. It should be arranged in advanced, because it's not easy to flop from one island of Gilis to the others and also to Senggigi. Their "cruise" ship fees often include pick up at hotels or airport.

It is also possible to access Bali by car from Java’s major cities, albeit a very long distance. For instance, you must spend approximately 18 hours (total, plus ferries and the overall duration from Gilimanuk to Denpasar) for a drive from Jakarta to Denpasar . Through Surabaya, which is much closer, lets you spend lesser time – 10 hours. From Semarang, you must drive for 13 hours, and from Bandung, 18 hours. Ferry costs at Banyuwangi cost around Rp.141,000 to Rp.159,000 for a regular passenger car.

From Mataram , it is a 4-to-5 hour drive plus ferries; from Lombok , also plus ferries, is a 5-hour drive.

Bali is a large island and you will need a way to get around if you plan on exploring more than the hotel pool. Rapid, seemingly uncontrolled development and aging infrastructure mean that the roads struggle to cope. In major tourist areas the traffic is chaotic, and there are daily traffic jams. Particular blackspots are Ubud , Kuta , Seminyak and Denpasar .

For different excursions around the island, it is common to join a tour via your hotel or at one of the many street agencies which are found everywhere in booths normally marked "Tourist Information". These booths make a commission on any tours they sell you.

Once you arrive at your destination you may encounter difficult walking conditions as sidewalks in most parts of Bali are simply the covered tops of storm-water drains and in many places only 60 cm (2 ft) wide. This makes for uncomfortable single-file walking next to traffic. Often sidewalks are blocked by a motorbike or a caved-in section, necessitating dangerous darting into traffic. Many of the island's conventional streets are simply not pedestrian friendly. Beach areas and major tourist areas are easier to walk around; Seminyak and Sanur in particular have a wide, walkable beachfront with many cafes and bars. But although the walking conditions are difficult, they are by no means impossible. Lots of tourists and locals travel the roads by foot, and even the traffic is generally very accommodating to pedestrians if it is given time to react.

Owing to worsening traffic, especially in south Bali, a light rail transit (LRT) system is planned. Construction is tipped to commence late in 2024. Four lines are planned to connect the airport to Canggu, Ubud, Nusa Dua and Sanur. The first stage, connecting Nusa Dua and Canggu, is planned to be operation in 2031. Until then, read about your transport options below.

It should be said at the outset that, as of 2024, tourist-centric public transport does not exist in any meaningful sense in Bali . As you will read below, privately-run buses and minibuses go between various towns, and Denpasar does have a small public bus network. However, for most tourists, taking public buses will not be a convenient way to get around, if it is even viable. This is because taxis are cheap and comfortable, and large buses are more liable to get stuck in the island's horrendous traffic.

The Perama bus company serves the budget traveller well in Bali and beyond, and they have offices in several major tourist destinations on the island. There are other scheduled shuttle buses between many of Bali's most popular destinations too.

A public bus service called Trans Sarbagita is a reliable option if you roam around Denpasar south towards Nusa Dua. TransSarbagita is similar to Jakarta 's, but has no dedicated lane. The buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, in contrast with bemos that have been relied upon for commuting. These buses stop only at elevated bus stops on the road curb. All Trans Sarbagita routes operate from 05:00 to 21:00, every 15 minutes though expect that to extend to half an hour due to traffic around Kuta. Though at least 17 routes are planned, only 3 are running as of June 2017 alongside a couple of feeder routes:

Line 1: Denpasar City to Garuda Wisnu Kencana, via Kuta (Dewa Ruci), Jimbaran
Line 2: Batubulan Terminal to Nusa Dua, via Sanur and Kuta (Dewa Ruci or Sentral Parkir bus stops are both 1 km from the beach). Perhaps most useful for tourists. Fare is Rp3,500.
Line 8: Pesiapan to Ngurah Rai Airport, via Mengwi
Feeder Line 1: Round trip around Denpasar
Feeder Line 9: Garuda Wisnu Kencana to Tanjung Benoa, via Nusa Dua
Feeder Line 10: Kedonganan to Uluwatu, via Jimbaran & Garuda Wisnu Kencana

Another public bus service is called Trans Metro Dewata with fixed stops - click here for a PDF route map . The fare is Rp4400. An electronic money card is required to take this public transport such as Brizzi, E-money, Flazz, and TapCash. The routes (called Koridor ) are:

Corridor 01: Sentral Parkir Kuta to Terminal Pesiapan
Corridor 02: GOR Ngurah Rai to Ngurah Rai Airport
Corridor 03: Pantai Matahari Terbit to Terminal Ubung
Corridor 04: Sentral Parkir Monkey Forest to Terminal Ubung
Corridor 05: Sentral Parkir Kuta to Terminal Ubung

For details, use the Moovit app.

Kura-Kura Bus is a public shuttle service that operates from southern Bali to Ubud, but oriented towards tourists as it stops at hotels and places of interest. Fares range from Rp20,000 for a single trip around Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak, to Rp80,000 for Ubud. A 3-day or 7-day travel pass would be much more useful if you want to see most of what Bali has to offer.

Metered taxis are very common in southern Bali as far north as Denpasar , but few and far between elsewhere. The starting flag fall charge is Rp5,000 for the first two kilometres and the meter ticks up Rp5,000 per km after that. Waiting time is charged at Rp30,000 per hour. Trips outside southern Bali will incur an extra charge of 30%, as the driver has to go back empty.

BlueBird Bali Taksi , ☏ +62 361 701111 . By far the largest and most reliable taxi company, they have a telephone call service for both instant taxis and advance bookings. If you are hailing a taxi on the street, Bluebird cars are sky blue with a white top light. The cars are modern and the drivers well informed with a decent level of English language ability. There are several other reliable taxi companies but these are not always easy to identify. If entering a taxi with no working meter, you are probably being deceived, you can negotiate a price with the driver but it is unlikely to work to your favour. Always insist on the meter being turned on, do not believe stories that the taxi has no meter or that it is "broken" and leave the taxi if the request to use the meter is not met. Bluebird has their own app for calling taxis, which works much the same way as Grab or Uber. You can also use the app to reserve a taxi in advance, which is helpful for early morning rides to catch a flight.

If day-tripping, it is often cheaper and more convenient to arrange for your taxi to wait and take you back.

The rideshare apps Grab and GOJEK , which offer on-demand car and motorcycle taxis, are worth the cost of a SIM card: it is usually significantly cheaper than a regular taxi and has an upfront fare system with driver rating that eliminates scams. You'll be given the driver's name, photo and licence plate in advance, and can track them in real-time. Payment is through the app or in cash. Coverage is more limited much north of Denpasar, but you should be getting one in less than 15 minutes.

In areas such as Canggu, Jimbaran and Uluwatu, you will see informal signage saying that rideshare drivers are not allowed. These signs are erected by local taxi drivers who are upset that they now have a harder time charging tourists high fares. You may have success getting a rideshare in these locations anyway, but the driver may want you to be discreet. A couple of hotels and the airport prohibit them from picking up passengers; if you are confronted by the hotel or a regular taxi driver about this, saying that you have pre-arrangements with them for a day excursion may work. Requesting a pick-up around the corner from your intended spot will also help avoid a confrontation. It takes 20 minutes to walk out of the airport and the convoluted road is not convenient for suitcases. Grab Car is available 24 hours at Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Denpasar and Sanur.

Bemos are minivans which serve as a flexible bus service and are Bali's "traditional" form of transportation. However they have largely given way to metered taxis in the south. Fares on shared bemos can be very cheap, but drivers will often insist that foreign tourists charter the entire vehicle, in which case they will usually ask for a price equivalent to a taxi or even more.

By car or motorbike

Driving in Indonesia is on the left. Car and motorbike rentals are widely available but think very carefully about your ability to handle traffic in Bali with its different traffic rules — both formal and informal. Consider hiring a car and driver as you can relax, be safe and not get lost.

If you wish to drive yourself you will find some international rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, Europcar and Sixt. A modern four door 6 to 8 seater Toyota Avanza or Daihatsu Xenia should cost Rp250,000-Rp275,000 per day and a rough Suzuki Katana from Rp90,000 to Rp110,000 per day. Avanza and Xenia Automatic Transmission should add Rp50,000 per day. Cheap, manual 4 seaters like the Toyota Agya or Daihatsu Ayla are Rp150,000-Rp175,000 per day. You will also be given a vehicle identification number ( S urat T anda N omor K endaraan) that you can show in case something happens with your vehicle, and if the specifications the renters described matched with the official documents.

Some new surfing areas are only accessible by motorbike, and not all hotels have ample car parking, so you might be tempted to rent a motorcycle or scooter. This can be a frightening yet fascinating experience. Motorcycles are typically 125cc, many with automatic transmissions, and rental tariff is Rp50,000 or above per day (for a week or more, you can bargain for a cheaper price). In areas outside of the tourist enclaves of south Bali, a motorbike is a wonderful way to see the island, but in south Bali, with its crush of traffic, the chances of an accident are greatly increased. Keep in mind that the notion of paradise where everything is quiet and in harmony may not be true on the roads for many cases. Bali is no place to learn to ride a motorbike.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for vehicle rental, with a motorcycle endorsement if renting a motorbike, the IDP must match the licence class of the home country of issue and must be appropriate to the vehicle being used; both documents must be carried. The IDP is seldom requested by the person renting you the vehicle but will be required (along with the vehicle's STNK registration papers). If you're stopped by the police typically a Rp 50,000 "fine" will allow you to keep driving but this strategy will quickly unravel if there is an accident involving damage or injury. Travel insurance will not help you if you ride unlicenced. An IDP is easily obtainable from motoring clubs in your home country. These will cost around US$ 25 as of 2024.

By rental car with a driver

Rental car services owned by individuals or companies are easy to find in Bali and this is the best option for first time visitors. Using a rental car with a driver is certainly cheaper than a taxi and far more efficient than other public transportation. Drivers are usually English speaking, and can usually act as guides, recommending good destinations and restaurants. Renting from a large car company is naturally more expensive than from a private individual; ask hotel staff to recommend a good individually-owned rental car with a knowledgeable driver. Drivers should hold a licence to operate a tourism transport vehicle; if not, you can expect delays and inconvenience if stopped by officials.

Price varies between Rp 300,000–600,000 per day (usually defined as 10 hours, but some car rentals are also offered for 5, 6 or 8 hours) depending on your negotiation skills and the class/age of the car. Make sure the price includes petrol and driver for the day. Petrol costs, after the removal of some government subsidies have escalated dramatically (although they still very cheap by international standards) and the distance travelled is a factor if you have not fixed a daily price. Entrance tickets to tourist destinations and any parking fees will be charged to you, and it is good form to buy lunch for your driver. For those on a tight schedule, visiting most of the major tourist destinations in Bali will need about 3 days with a rental car and driver.

Riding a bicycle in the chaotic heavy traffic of southern Bali is not recommended . Visitors will notice that, as of 2024, there is not a single road with a bicycle lane on the whole island. Riding on the major highways is also not recommended, because they are barely wide enough for the trucks and buses which thunder down them. That said, cycling is very possible and pleasant in less-developed areas. The trouble with these areas is they are usually very mountainous. Additionally, there is no way to get your bicycle there other than riding it there. For this reason, use a tour operator who takes you there and provides the bicycles.

One popular bicycle route is Kintamani to Gianyar, 36 km of downhill or flat terrain through paddy fields, villages, and temples. Tour operators can pick you up at your hotel and take you to Kintamani where bicycles await.

If you want to buy a bicycle, there are about a dozen bike shops in Bali, mostly in Denpasar. Bicycles are also available for rent and some of the better hotels will even provide them free of charge.

Bali's best known attractions are its countless Hindu temples . Each village is required by adat (customary law) to construct and maintain at least three temples: the pura puseh (temple of origin) at the kaja (pure) side of the village, the pura desa (village temple) at the centre for everyday community activities and the pura dalem (temple of the dead) at the kelod (unclean) end. Wealthy villages may well have more than these three obligatory temples, and additionally all family compounds have a temple of some nature.

The nine directional temples ( kayangan jagat ) are the largest and most prominent. These are at strategic points across Bali and are designed to protect the island and its inhabitants from dark forces. Pura Luhur Uluwatu (Uluwatu Temple) , at the southern tip of Bali, is easily accessed and hence very popular, as is Tanah Lot . For the Balinese, the "mother temple" of Besakih on the slopes of Mount Agung is the most important of all and sits above the nine. The other seven directional temples are Goa Lawah , Pura Lempuyang Luhur , Pura Luhur Batukaru , Pura Masceti , Pura Pasar Agung , Pura Ulun Danu Batur , and Pura Ulun Danu Bratan . All of these are on either rugged high ground or at the water's edge, and this is a clear indication of the likely source of dark forces as far as the Balinese are concerned.

Balinese temple design is an involved subject and one that baffles many visitors. Local geography has a fundamental effect on design, and two temples are rarely the same. Everything you see, be it decorative or structural, has a specific, well considered function which may be of an earthly or spiritual nature. There are, though, general elements which are common to the vast majority of temples, which are always split into three courtyards: jaba (outer courtyard), jaba tengah (middle courtyard) and jeroan (inner courtyard). Each of these courtyards contains various structures and/or shrines of differing levels of importance.

The tiered, black-thatched roofs that you see on temples are made from a palm fibre, and this material is not permitted to be used for any roof other than those on temples. The elegant, pagoda-like tiered structure is itself called a meru (named after sacred Mount Meru (Mahameru) , the home of the gods), and the most dramatic of them can consist of as many as 11 tiers. The number of tiers, though, is always an odd number.

The temple entrance is always on the kelod axis point (facing away from Mount Agung) of the compound and is usually a gateway of some nature. This leads into the jaba which is the domain of humans and all things earthly. The jaba contains only minor shrines, is where some celebratory dance performances take place, and during special ceremonies is where the foods stalls are set up. Non-Hindu tourists are nearly always allowed to visit this part of a temple.

A gateway called a candi bentar leads into the central courtyard which is called the jaba tengah . This is the intermediary point between our earthly domain and the realm of the Gods, and this is where daily offerings are prepared in an open pavilion called a paon . The jaba tengah also usually contains a large pavilion called a wantilan , which is used for special dance performances.

The kori agung gate leads into the jeroan — the inner sacred area. This houses the most important shrines to different Hindu gods and deities and is where serious rituals and prayers take place. Shrines are many and varied but usually include a padmasana , the throne of the supreme deity Sanghyang Widi Wasa . The large pavilion in this section is called a gedong pariman , which is always left completely empty to allow the gods to visit during ceremonies. Sometimes properly dressed visitors will be allowed into the jeroan and at other times not; it depends on the individual temple and the ceremonies that have been, or are about to be, performed.

The most common and practical architectural features to be found in virtually all temples are gazebo pavilions called bales . Each has a raised seating section and either an alang-alang (grass-thatched) or tali duk (black palm fibre-thatched) roof and has a myriad of social functions. Bales can serve as a place for the gamelan orchestra to sit, as a village meeting point, host dance performances or simply be a place of rest for worshipers. This part of traditional Balinese temple architecture has been copied by hotels all over the island and in the wider world. The open grass-roofed pavilions you see everywhere in Bali are all derived from this original piece of temple design.

To enter any temple you must be appropriately dressed with a sarong and sash. These are always available for rental at the large temples which attract a lot of tourists (usually included if you're paying to enter, else a few thousand rupiah per set), but it's better to buy one of each when you arrive and use them throughout your visit.

Most of the coastline of Bali is fringed by beaches of some type, with the exceptions being some important areas of mangrove forest in the southeast, and certain parts of the Bukit Peninsula where high cliffs drop straight to the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean.

Unsurprisingly, given the volcanic nature of the island, black sand is the norm, but there are also some beaches in the south which have fine-grained white sand. Beaches that are especially safe for swimming include Jimbaran Bay and virtually all of the north coast. At all times though, obey local swimming safety markers — far too many visitors to Bali drown each year after ignoring these. Bali's popular southern beaches are sometimes not the cleanest you will find. This is particularly true during the height of the wet season (December to January), when the heavy rains cause extensive agricultural runoff and garbage to be washed onto the beaches.

Away from the coast, Bali is largely lush, green and fertile, and rice paddies are the dominant agricultural feature of the island. In some areas, paddies take the form of dramatic sculpted terraces which efficiently utilise every available acre of land for cultivation. Especially beautiful examples of terraced paddies can be found in the centre of the island north of Ubud and in east Bali around Tirta Gangga . Elsewhere, gently rolling rice fields make for very pleasing rural scenery. There are a number of rice field tours available, and these can involve staying at a resort in one of these areas.

All of Bali's mountains are volcanoes , some long dormant and some still active. At 3,142 m, magnificent Mount Agung dominates the landscape of East Bali and has not erupted since 1963. At the end of 2018, Mount Agung erupted, and as of August 2019 is still erupting, so there are 4 km radius of prohibited/safety zone from the crater rim. Much more active is Mount Batur , which permanently smoulders and periodically produces a large bang and plumes of ashy smoke as pressure is released from within. Taking only 2 hr to climb, Batur is one of the most accessible active volcanoes in the whole of Indonesia.

Art , both traditional and modern, is everywhere in Bali and impossible to miss. Ubud is the artistic capital of the island with several museums and a variety of informal workshops and retail outlets. Ubud's museums showcase the works of local artists, both living and dead, as well as works by many foreign artists, who either have a strong affinity to Bali or have made the island their permanent home.

A sad reminder of the modern world is the Bali Bomb Memorial on Jalan Legian in Kuta , which commemorates the 202 victims of the first Bali Bomb attack in October 2002. The site of the former Sari Club, obliterated in one of the blasts, lies adjacent to the monument and has not been redeveloped.

There are several monuments commemorating the puputan (suicidal fight to the death) of the Balinese against the Dutch colonialists in the early 20th century. The two most famous are in the town centre of Klungkung in East Bali and in Puputan Park, Denpasar .

Bali's Hindu culture and history is both extraordinary and unique. Many visitors get so wrapped up in shopping, partying and beach life to miss the opportunity to understand and absorb at least some of this. You cannot fail to see temples, come across ceremonies and witness daily offerings, and those who take the time and effort to understand what is going on around them will find their visit very rewarding. The Balinese art of shadow puppetry (aka Wayang Kulit) is worth checking out during a visit to the island.

There are several hot springs to be discovered in Bali. One of them, on the north coast of the island near Lovina , is Air Banjar, where stone mouth carvings allow hot water to pass between the pools, which are set in lush gardens. Another good choice is at Toya Bungkah on the shores of Lake Batur, high in the north eastern mountains.

Bali is a paradise for spa lovers, and all sorts of treatments are widely available. The Balinese lulur body scrub with herbs and spices — traditionally performed before a wedding ceremony — is particularly popular. Balinese massage is usually done with oil and involves long, Swedish-style strokes. In steep contrast to exorbitant western massage fees, Balinese massage is incredible value, and visitors should definitely avail themselves of this luxury. In local salons, a one-hour full body massage will cost between Rp 70,000 and 100,000, and the 2 hr mandi lulur , which incorporates a body scrub and hydrating yogurt body mask in addition to the massage, will cost about Rp 150,000. The curiously named creambath is a relaxing scalp and shoulder massage, usually lasting 45 minutes, in which a thick conditioning cream is worked through the hair and into the scalp. A creambath typically costs about Rp 60,000. These same services in an upscale hotel will cost many times more.

Bali is host to some of the finest yoga and well-being centres and retreats in the world. You can find an abundance of amazing yoga classes to suit all levels in most of the tourist areas. Look for the best yoga centres in Ubud and Seminyak . Bali is also now home to a number of renowned yoga teacher training centres. Good local resources for finding the best include Bali spirit .

Weddings in Bali have become very popular. Many couples who are already legally married choose Bali as the place to renew their vows. Full wedding-organising services are widely available: ceremony arrangements, photography, videography, flowers, musicians, dancers and caterering. There are several wedding chapels available that are usually attached to luxury hotels, and the number is growing all the time. There are many professional organisers to handle your wedding in Bali, and these are easily found through the Internet. Destination weddings, featuring all types of religious and presentation arrangements, are becoming increasingly popular, with large private villas being one of the island's many offerings for venues.

An excellent way to get to know and understand more of the country is to do some volunteer work . There are organisations that arrange work for international volunteers in Bali and other places in the region.

Water activities

There are many interesting scuba diving sites around Bali. Particularly popular are the wreck of USAT Liberty at Tulamben in the east, the chilled out coral bommies in Padang Bai , the serene reefs around Menjangan Island in the northwest, and dramatic drift diving off Nusa Penida in the south. Bali is a major teaching centre, and there are numerous reputable dive centres around the island affiliated with PADI and SSI. For those who want their diving to make a difference as well, dive voluntourism has gain a foothold in Bali, such as in Sea Communities in Les Village, Tejakula, where divers could help rebuild coral reefs and learn to catch ornamental fish in a sustainable way.

Warm waters, crowds of young backpackers, cheap living and reliable waves keep Bali near the top of world surfing destinations. The southern coast at Kuta , Legian and Canggu , the Bukit Peninsula and Nusa Lembongan are the primary draws. Expert surfers usually head for the big breaks off the Bukit Peninsula, whilst beginners will find the gentler, sandy areas between Kuta and Legian to be ideal for learning. All Bali's surf beaches are described in the Indo Surf and Lingo surfing guidebook . There are formal surf schools on Legian beach and Kuta beach. The more adventurous might like to try informal lessons from one of the many local self-styled surf teachers to be found hanging on any beach in South Bali. Regular surf reports are provided by Baliwaves .

There are a number of reputable whitewater rafting operators in the Ubud area, and the rafting is of good quality, especially in the wet season. If you want to go in non commercial area and feel more sensations you can also do canyoning .

Sport fishing is an increasingly popular activity with visitors to the island. Trolling, jigging and bottom fishing can all be very rewarding, with large game far from unusual. Charters are available from many coastal areas but the most popular points with a competitive range of options are Benoa Harbour and nearby Serangan close to Kuta , just to the north in Sanur and Padang Bai on the east coast.

Waterbom is a large water park in Jl Kartika Plaza in Kuta , supposedly the second best in the world, defeating Disneyland and Dubai.

Other sports, adventure and family activities

Bali has become a famous destination for golfers. Most of the golf courses are international, with relatively cheap green fees and all-year play with convenient climate: "Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club" in the mountains near Bedugul , the "Bali Golf & Country Club" in Nusa Dua , a 9-hole course at the Grand Bali Beach Hotel in Sanur , the "Nirwana Bali Golf Club" near Tanah Lot, the New Kuta Golf Course at Pecatu on the Bukit Peninsula , and Bukit Pandawa Golf near Pandawa Beach.

Visitors can see animals at the Bali Zoo in Singapadu near Ubud , at the Bali Bird Park, at the Taro Elephant Park, and at the Bali Marine and Safari Park near Gianyar.

Many companies also provide adventure activities such as Paragliding at Nusa Dua , Mountain Cycling in the hills of Ubud or downhill cycling from Bedugul and Kintamani , cycling with e-bikes in Mambal (South Ubud) and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Jatiluwih, Jungle Trekking , Bungy Jumping on the beach in Seminyak , Horse Riding in Seminyak and Umalas, and Hiking in the rice fields near Ubud and many other places in the hills.

Nature can be observed while trekking in West Bali National Park , at the Butterfly Park ( Taman Kupu Kupu ) in Wanasari, or at the Bali Botanical Gardens in Bedugul . Inside the Botanical Gardens, visitors can also get a bird's-eye view of nature from the Bali Treetop Adventure Park . Hiking the Bali volcanoes is a popular option with visitors.

Whether it is simple trinkets, a nice statue or high fashion boutiques that turn you on, Bali is a shopper's paradise. A huge range of very affordable products are offered to the point where shopping can overwhelm a visit if you allow it to.

Clothing is a real draw. Popular sportswear brands are available in a multitude of stores in Kuta and Legian for prices approximately thirty to fifty per cent lower than you would pay at home. If the mass market is not your thing, try the ever increasing number of chic boutiques in Seminyak and support young local designers. Jalan Laksmana is a good starting point.

Bali is an island of artisans, so arts and crafts are always popular. Try to head to the source if you can rather than buying from identikit shops in Kuta or Sanur. You will gain more satisfaction from buying an article direct from the maker and seeing the craftsman in action. Bali has a huge range of locally produced crafts including paintings, basketware, stone and wood carvings, silver and shell jewellery, ceramics, natural paper gifts and glassware.

Dried spices and coffee are very popular items to take home. Most supermarkets have specially designed gift packages aimed at tourists, or, if you are visiting Bedugul , buy at the Bukit Mungsu traditional market.

Whatever you are buying, make sure you are in your best bargaining mode, as these skills will be required except in the higher-end stores that specifically state that their prices are fixed. And of course, bargaining is a lot of fun.

For more general shopping, Bali is home to a myriad of small shops and supermarkets and you will not be short of options. 24-hour convenience stores have mushroomed in South Bali with the Circle K franchise chain being especially prominent. The staff at these always speak English and the product lines they stock are very much aimed at visitors; everything from beer and magazines to western foodstuffs and sun lotion are available around the clock.

Bali has a huge variety of cafes and restaurants, serving both Indonesian and international food (see Indonesia for a menu reader). For better or worse, some American chains have established a presence here, although almost exclusively confined to the southern tourist areas. You will see KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut and Starbucks. Interestingly, the menus are often highly adapted to the local tastes. The menu at Pizza Hut looks nothing like one you find in Western countries.

Try the smaller local restaurants (called warungs) rather than touristy ones; the food is better and cheaper. Be sure to try the ubiquitous Indonesian dishes nasi goreng (fried rice), nasi campur (pronounced nasi champur, steamed rice with various vegetables and meats), and mie goreng (fried noodles). These dishes should rarely cost more than Rp 25,000 and are often considerably cheaper.

Some of the most authentic food can be found from roving vendors called kaki lima , which literally means "five legs": the three legs of the food cart and the vendor's own two legs. Go to the beaches of Kuta, Legian and Seminyak at sunset and find steaming hot bakso , a delightful meatball and noodle soup, served up fresh for a very inexpensive Rp 5,000. You can season it yourself but be forewarned: Indonesian spices can be ferociously hot. Go easy until you find your heat tolerance level!

Padang restaurants are a good choice for both the budget conscious and those visitors wishing to experience authentic Indonesian (but not Balinese) cuisine. These are usually marked with a prominent masakan padang sign and serve food from Padang , Sumatra. The options are usually stacked on plates in the window. You choose what you want and it is served with steamed rice. The most famous Padang speciality is rendang sapi (spicy beef coconut curry) but there are always a number of chicken, fish, egg and vegetable options. Padang food is always halal , and you'll eat well for Rp 15,000–20,000.

Balinese food

Actual Balinese food is common on the island but it has made few inroads in the rest of the country due to its emphasis on pork , which is anathema to the largely Muslim population in the rest of the country. Notable dishes include:

Babi guling — roast suckling pig. A large ceremonial dish served with rice that is usually ordered several days in advance, but also often available at night market stalls and selected restaurants. A very notable outlet for babi guling is Ibu Oka's in Ubud .
Bebek betutu — literally "darkened duck", topped with a herb paste and roasted in banana leaves over charcoal. The same method can also be used for chicken, resulting in ayam betutu .
Lawar — covers a range of Balinese salads, usually involving thinly chopped vegetables, minced meat, coconut and spices. Traditionally, blood is mixed into this dish but it is often omitted for the more delicate constitutions of visitors. Green beans and chicken are a particularly common combination.
Sate lilit — minced seafood satay, served wrapped around a twig of lemongrass.
Urutan — Balinese spicy sausage, made from pork.

Other Balinese specialities include:

Ayam panggang bumbu bawang mentah — grilled chicken with sliced shallots, chillies and lime.
Ayam panggang bumbu merah — grilled chicken with red chilli and shrimp paste sauce.
Ayam betutu — steamed chicken cooked with Balinese herbs and spices.
Bebek timbungan — tender duck traditionally cooked for hours with smoky flavour
Tum ayam/ketopot — sliced chicken mixed with herbs and spices and steamed in banana leaves.
Ikan kakap bakar bumbu terasi — grilled snapper in local hot spices.
Sudang lepet — salted dry fish.
Pepes ikan laut — sliced fish mixed with herbs and spices, grilled, and served in a banana leaf.
Pelecing kangkung — water convolvulus with shrimp paste and lime.
Pelecing paku — fern tips with shrimp paste and lime.

Dietary restrictions

Unlike Indian Hindus, virtually all Balinese eat meat, and vegetarianism has traditionally been limited to part-time fasts for some priests. Cows, however, are considered sacred, so Balinese traditional foods do not include beef but do include pork, which is not halal for Muslims. It's best to assume that all local food is non-vegetarian unless assurances are given to the contrary. In particular, the Indonesian spice paste sambal is a hot paste of ground red chillies, spices and usually shrimp paste. Always check to see if the sambal being served to you contains shrimp paste — you can find it without at a few places. Additionally, kerupuk crackers with a spongy appearance contain shrimp or fish. As an alternative, ask for emping, a delicious meat-free cracker made from bean paste — it resembles a fried potato chip in appearance. Restaurants catering to tourists do nearly always provide some vegetarian options, and in places like Seminyak and Ubud there are even dedicated vegetarian restaurants.

Halal restaurants catering to the Muslim minority exist, but may require a little searching for and tend to be downmarket. Padang restaurants (mentioned above) are a good option, and Muslims may also be able to eat in Javanese or Sundanese restaurants. Kosher food is virtually unknown.

A meal in a basic tourist-oriented restaurant will be around Rp 20,000–50,000/person. In a local restoran or warung the same meal might be about Rp 15,000 or less. Simple warungs or sometimes small tables in pedestrian zones sell nasi bungkus/nasi Bali (a pyramid-shaped banana leaf/paper-wrapped parcel of about 400 g of rice with several tasty extras such as shredded chicken, pindang egg, noodles and chili to take away) for not more than Rp 10,000. One very reliable option is nasi campur (rice with several options, chosen by the purchaser) for about Rp 10,000-15,000. Rice is often served at ambient temperature with the accompanying food much hotter, this is common practice in Indonesia.

At the other end of the scale, Bali is home to a number of truly world-class fine-dining restaurants. Seminyak is home to many of the trendy independent options, and elsewhere on the island, the better five-star resorts have their own very high quality in-house restaurants with prices to match.

At all but the cheapest local restaurants, it is normal for 10% government sales tax and 11% service charge to be added to your bill. Some restaurants include this in the price, but most expressly state these plus plus terms.

July and August is the busiest season in Bali but the best deals can be had between October and April (apart from Christmas time).

Most Balinese have nothing against a drink, and alcohol is widely available.

Caution should be taken in buying spirits as a poisonings and deaths have occurred, due to unscrupulous operators cutting spirits with cheaper alternatives like methylated spirits. Beer is seen to be safe.

Indonesia's most popular beer is the ubiquitous Bintang , but the cheaper Bali Hai is nearly as widespread. Bintang is a fairly highly regarded classic light Asian beer, but Bali Hai is a rather bland lager, and despite the name it's actually brewed in a suburb of Jakarta. Another Indonesian beer is Anker . Foreign brands Carlsberg, Heineken, and San Miguel are all brewed in Indonesia as well, and widely available. A wide range of more expensive imported beers are available. Beer is relatively expensive in local terms, though still cheap by western standards; at Rp22,000 and up a small bottle costs the same as a full meal in a local restaurant. In tourist centres, happy hours are widely publicised before and after sunset, with regular bottles of beer going for Rp20,000-25,000 and the large bottles for Rp35,000-40,000. Today, formally mini markets cannot sell alcohol drinks anymore, even beer, but by Governor discretion, 'warung' and small vendors still can serve/sell beer with note they should be in a group/cooperation.

Bali produces its own wines, with Hatten being the oldest and most popular brand, available in white, red, rose (most popular) and sparkling varieties. Quality is inconsistent, but the rose is usually OK and massively cheaper than imported wines, which can easily top Rp300,000 per bottle. Wine aficionados are better off bringing their own bottle in with them. Most restaurants will let you bring your own bottle and some will charge a modest corkage fee. Smaller establishments may not have a corkscrew, so bring your own. The new popular wine is snake fruit wine from Karangasem with sweet and sour taste.

Bali also produces its own liqueurs and spirits, with Bali Moon being the most popular. They offer a wide range of flavoured liqueurs: banana, blackcurrant, butterscotch, coconut, hazelnut, lychee, melon, peppermint, orange, blue curacao, pineapple and coffee. Vodka and other spirits are also produced locally, with Mansion House being the most popular brand. Many of these local spirits are little more than flavoured rice spirit. Cocktails in Bali range from Rp30,000 in small bars to Rp100,000 in high end establishments. Bali Moon cocktails are available in almost every bar, restaurant and hotel in Bali. Liqueurs are available in many retail outlets; just enquire within if you wish to have fun making your own cocktails.

Bali's traditional hooches are arak , a clear distilled spirit that packs a 40° punch; brem , a fermented rice wine sold in gift shops in attractive clay bottles that are much nicer than the taste of the stuff inside; and tuak , a palm 'wine' which is often served at traditional festivities. Visitors should be extremely careful about where they purchase arak, as there have been a number of serious poisoning cases and even some deaths involving tainted arak.

Tap water in Bali is generally not drinkable, and when it is it's hard to ascertain its quality. Bottled water is universally available and inexpensive (Rp5,000 or so for a 1.5 litre bottle); restaurants usually use commercially purified water for cooking. The most popular brand is Aqua and that name is often used generically for bottled water. Filtered water shops are also common, providing on-site treatment of the mains water to a potable standard. This is known as air putih (literally "white water"). These shops are much cheaper than retail outlets, selling water for about Rp5,000 per 11-litre reusable container, and they avoid the waste created by plastic bottles.

Fresh fruit juices cost from Rp10,000 upwards and their mixes may include watermelon, melon, papaya, orange, lime, banana or almost any other fruit you can think of. In Bali, avocado ( alpukat ) is used as a dessert fruit. Blended with coconut milk or milk, a little water and ice — and frequently use palm sugar rather than chocolate syrup — this is a beverage you will rarely find elsewhere. Almost all restaurant menus have a section devoted to various non-alcoholic fruit-based drinks. Other notable local beverages is Ice Kuwut or Es Kuwut , a mixture of coconut water with addition of coconut and melon fruits with addition of basil seeds and key lime .

Bali has, without a doubt, the best range of accommodation in Indonesia, from US$10-per-night losmens to US$4,000-per-night super-homes.

Backpackers tend to head for Kuta , which has the cheapest (and dingiest) digs on the island, while many five-star resorts are clustered in Nusa Dua , Jimbaran , Seminyak and Ubud . Sanur and Jimbaran offer a fairly happy compromise if you want beaches and some quiet. Ubud 's hotels and resorts cater to those who prefer spas and cultural pursuits over surfing and booze. Legian is situated between Kuta and Seminyak and offers a good range of accommodation. The newest area to start offering a wide range of accommodation is Uluwatu which now boasts everything from surfer bungalows to the opulent Bulgari and other high end resorts. Further north on the west coast is the district of Canggu . It used to offer many traditional villages set among undulating rice fields but is now being developed very fast and looks more like Seminyak . For rest and revitalisation, visit Amed , an area of peaceful fishing villages on the east coast with some good hotels and restaurants, or head for the sparsely populated areas of West Bali . In Bali Popies Lane I and II at Kuta are popular among backpackers, for one room with fan, one person is about Rp 70,000, while when the room is used by two persons is only Rp 100,000, both with fried rice or egg sandwich breakfast. Very cheap, but to the beach should walk about 300 meters or more. Usually no booking in advance, and also no contact person, because the owner and also as the server prioritise whom sleep there first for extension day(s). Come at 10:00 to see maybe some backpackers have left the losmen.

Thanks to Bali's balmy climate, many hotels, bungalows and villas offer open-air bathrooms , often set in a lush garden. They look amazing and are definitely a very Balinese experience, but they may also shelter little uninvited guests and are best avoided if you have a low tolerance for critters.

Bali hotel prices may be given in three different currencies . Prices in U.S. dollars are most common, particularly away from the budget sector. Euros are sometimes used, particularly at hotels owned by European nationals. Lower-end places usually (but not always) price in Indonesian Rupiah. Some new local web hotels searches usually stated payment in Rupiah and also usually include tax and service payment, different with international web hotels searches which stated price exclude any tax and service. If you pay your bill by credit card, then the amount in the currency you agreed to when making the booking is converted to Indonesian Rupiah on the day you pay and your account is charged with that amount of Rupiah. This is because Indonesian banking law does not permit credit card transactions in any other currency. If you pay by cash, you can settle with the currency in which you were quoted the room rate.

It is generally best to seek a rate in Indonesian Rupiah and resist efforts by the hotels and villa owners to quote in a foreign currency unless you are able to make payment in the currency and it is agreeable to you to do so.

It is important to understand the tax and service charge that hotels are obliged to levy by Indonesian law. All high-end and mid-range (and a fair proportion of budget) hotels will levy a 21% tax and service charge on the room rate (the so-called "plus plus"). When you make a booking, you should always ask whether the rate quoted includes or excludes this. Simple budget homestays/losmen and informal accommodation are not obliged to levy these charges. The 21% consists of 11% sales tax which goes to the government and a 10% service charge which should go into a pool shared between the staff.

Be careful when you book/search three-stars hotels or below, because sometimes the hotels have uncommon rules. Different price of one, two or three persons stay. For the three persons sometimes has two options with extra bed (compulsory or not) or without extra bed (extra person). For three persons and more you can share a family room with bunk beds in some hotels and the hotel will provide you a 5-gallon drinking water and its dispenser. With and without breakfast. With breakfast means you have to eat in its small breakfast room. But if you want to eat in your room, additional charge will be added. Some hotels which have no breakfast room, will deliver your breakfast to your room after you telephone the front office or maybe they give a packet breakfast meal in a box or on disposable tray with thin plastic cover. Some hotels will charge you cleaning service charge (at least $5) when your trash bucket is full with your own (rubbish) eat and drink are bought from outside the hotel, but it is not mentioned in the internet, but it is mentioned on the hotel guideline book in your room. Compulsory pickup charge from and to airport is also implemented by some hotels, the other hotels use big vehicle to pick up your group with more charge, but they mention price for small car.

The newest trend is for some big local companies in Indonesia to build bed and breakfast hotels to keep continuous earnings. The hotels claim to be 3-star, but they have no pool or spa, and their room rates range from Rp350,000 to Rp450,000. They are spread through Kuta, Legian, Seminyak and Denpasar near the Bypass and aimed at domestic tourists, though foreign tourists are also welcome. One advantage is the hotels are always near the crowd, which Indonesians prefer, with minimarkets and cheap/modest food stalls around the hotels. The locations are 1-2 km from the beach.

Like most of Southeast Asia, there are only a couple hotels in Bali that have family room, triple or quadruple room. The closest option would be to book two rooms with a connecting door, though it may be more expensive than one whole family suite. Most hotels count a kid over 2 years old as an adult, while others allow one child up to 10 years old accompanying the adults without extra bed for free.

Private villas

Bali has become famous for its large collection of private villas for rent, complete with staff and top-class levels of service. Low labour costs result in single villas boasting staff teams of up to 30 people at the really high end. A private villa rental can be a great option for a visit to Bali, but it pays to be aware of the potential pitfalls.

Not every place sold as a villa actually fits the bill. Prices vary widely and some operators claim to go as low as US$30 per night, which usually means a standalone bungalow on hotel grounds with little actual privacy. Realistically, costs will be upwards of US$200 per night for anything with a decent location and a private pool. At the top of the range, nightly rents can easily exceed US$1,000. The general rule of you get what you pay for applies here. There are, of course, exceptions, but a 4 bedroom villa offered for US$400 and one for US$800 per night will be different in many ways: the standard of maintenance, the number of staff and their English ability, and the overall quality of furnishings and fittings in the property.

Look carefully as to who is running the villa. Is it run by the owner, a local company, a western company or by local staff who answer to an absent overseas owner? And who you are renting through: directly from the owner, a management company, an established villa agent or one who just opened a month ago after his friend Nyoman told him how easy it was? Each path has its pros and cons. If it is an agency, see if there are press reviews. Ask how long the villa has been taking commercial guests, as villas normally take a year or so to get to best service levels. In the first six to 12 months of operation, great villas may offer introductory rates that are well below market value to gain awareness. In all circumstances thoroughly examine and query the security arrangements, especially if dealing with an apparently inexperienced or opportunistic operator to ensure you are not exposing yourself or your belongings to any unnecessary risks.

Many private villas are found in the greater Seminyak area ( Seminyak , Umalas, Canggu ), in the south around Jimbaran and Uluwatu , in Sanur and around the hill town of Ubud as well as Lovina in north Bali. They are rare in heavily built-up areas like Kuta , Legian and Denpasar .

For an extended stay, it is worth considering a long-term rental, which can be as low as US$4,000 per year. Restaurants, shops and bars frequented by Bali's sizable expatriate community, particularly in Seminyak , Sanur and Ubud , are good places to find information about long-term rentals. Look for a bulletin board with property advertisements tacked up or pick up a copy of the local expat biweekly publication, The Bali Advertiser . With a year-round tourism trade, villas that have everything right are usually available for more lucrative short-term rental only. Long-term rental houses tend to be older and not as well maintained. If you are willing to be flexible, though, you can find nice house options over a wide range of budgets.

Bali is, in general, a safe destination, and few visitors encounter any real problems.

Bali was the scene of lethal terrorist bombings in 2002 and 2005, with both waves of attacks targeting nightclubs and restaurants popular among foreign visitors. Security is consequently tight at obvious targets, but it is of course impossible to protect oneself fully against terrorism. If it is any reassurance, the Balinese themselves — who depend on tourism for their livelihood — deplored the bombings and the terrorists behind them for the terrible suffering they have caused on this peaceful island. As a visitor, it is important to put the risk in perspective: Bali's roads are statistically far more dangerous than even the deadliest bomb. It may still be prudent to avoid high-profile Western hangouts, especially those without security measures. The paranoid or just security-conscious may wish to head out of the tourist enclaves of South Bali to elsewhere on the island.

Bali is increasingly enforcing Indonesia's harsh penalties against the import, export, trafficking and possession of illegal drugs , including marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine and heroin. Several high-profile arrests of foreigners have taken place in Bali since 2004, and a number have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms or (very rarely) execution. Even the possession of a small amount of drugs for personal use puts you at risk of a trial and prison sentence. Watch out for seemingly harmless street boys looking to sell you drugs (marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, etc.). More often than not, they are working with undercover police and will try to sell you drugs so that they can then get uniformed officers onto you. The police officers will (if you are lucky) demand a bribe for your release, or, more likely, look for a far larger payday by taking you into custody. Just avoid Bali's drug scene at all costs .

The unfortunate people who are caught and processed will find there is little distinction between personal use and dealing in the eyes of the Indonesian legal system. 'Expedition fees', monies paid to shorten prison sentences can easily be US$20,000 and are often a lot more.

There is a fair chance that you will be offered magic mushrooms , especially if you are young and find yourself in Kuta . Indonesian law is a little unclear in this area but with the whole country in the midst of a drug crackdown since 2004, it is not worth taking the risk.

If you see a red flag planted in the sand, do not swim there, as they are a warning of dangerous rip currents . These currents can pull you out to sea with alarming speed and even the strongest swimmers cannot swim against them. The thing to do is to stay calm and swim sideways (along the shore) until out of the rip and only then head for the shore. The ocean is not to be trifled with in Bali, and dozens of people, some experienced some not, die by drowning every year.

Even though Bali is quite a safe place in which few tourists encounter problems, avoid scams and overpriced services this island can offer you.

Petty scams are not uncommon, although they can usually be avoided with a modicum of common sense. If approached on the street by anybody offering a deal on souvenirs, transport, etc., you can rest assured that you will pay more if you follow your new found friend. Guard your bags, especially at transport terminals and ferry terminals. In addition to the risk of them being stolen, self-appointed porters like to grab them without warning and then insist on ridiculous prices for their "services".

Timeshare scams and schemes are common in Bali with several high profile, apparently legitimate operators. If you are approached by a very friendly street canvasser asking you to complete a survey and then attend a holiday resort presentation to claim your 'prize' (this is inevitably a 'free' holiday which you end up paying for anyway), politely refuse and walk away. You may also be cold-called at your hotel to be told you have 'won a holiday' - the caller may even know your name and nationality thanks to a tip-off from someone who has already seen your data. If you fall for this scam, you will be subjected to a very long, high pressure sales presentation and if you actually buy the 'holiday club' product, you will certainly regret it. Timeshare is a completely unregulated industry in Indonesia, and you have no recourse.

When leaving Bali, if you have anything glass in your baggage (such as duty-free alcohol) the security guards may put some pressure on you to have it wrapped to keep it safe, and it can seem like its a requirement rather than a suggestion (it is Rp 60,000 a bag). Similarly, when arriving in Bali, some uniformed airport porters may offer to take your bags for you and walk you through customs, be generally friendly and helpful, and then demand a tip. The charge is Rp 5,000, a request for any amount in excess of this has no formal sanction, it is best to stop them from interfering with your bags in any way, just tell them you do not want their services unless you are sure you want to use them, if so clarify the price before they lift up your bags. These 'services' are best avoided.

The money changing rule is simple: use only authorised money changers with proper offices and always ask for a receipt. The largest is called PT Central Kuta and they have several outlets. If you are especially nervous, then use a formal bank. You may get a better rate at an authorised money changer though.

Avoid changing money in smaller currency exchange offices in shops, as they more often than not will try to steal money by using very creative and "magician" like methods. Even when you think you've watched the dealers every move, you're not unlikely to end up with far too low an amount in your hands, so just take a minute to recount your stack of notes at the spot. Often the rate advertised on the street is nowhere near the rate that they will give you in the end. Many times the rate is set higher to lure you in so that they can con you out of a banknote or two, and when this is not possible, they will give you a shoddy rate and state that the difference is due to commission. This even applies to the places which clearly state that there is no commission, of course any money changer charges a commission, they would cease to be viable if they did not and it is built into the differential between the purchase rate and the sell rate at any given time.

For many, the largest irritant will be the hawkers and peddlers who linger around temples, malls, beaches, and anywhere tourists congregate. It may feel difficult or rude to ignore the constant come-ons to buy souvenirs, food and assorted junk, but it can be necessary in order to enjoy your holiday in semi-peace.

Be wary around the monkeys that occupy many temples (most notably Uluwatu and Ubud 's Monkey Forest). They are experts at stealing possessions like glasses, cameras and even handbags, and have been known to attack people carrying food. Feeding them is just asking for trouble.

Rabies is present in Bali and several deaths arising from rabies infections have been recorded in early 2011. Visitors to the island should avoid contact with dogs, cats, monkeys and other animals that carry the disease. If bitten seek medical attention.

Whilst eating dog meat is not illegal in Bali, some vendors are breaching animal cruelty and food safety laws. Dogs are being bludgeoned, strangled or poisoned for human consumption. Dog meat is filtering into the tourist food chain in Bali, sometimes unsafely.

"Turtle Island" scam

A "Turtle ‘Island’" in Tanjung Benoa is one of Bali's most infamous scams. Bali does possess a legitimate Turtle Conservation and Education Center (TCEC) at Serangan Island, also known as "Turtle Island", which is sponsored by the government (to be exact, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry [Kementerian Lingkungan Hidup dan Kehutanan]). However, when requested to go to "Turtle Island", many drivers, guides, and tour agencies will instead lead tourists to an unlicensed "conservation center" called Moon Cot Sari there. It is more of a mini-zoo than a conservation centre, despite its name. What’s wrong with this place is that animals are kept in filthy, small habitat and subject to several forms of mistreatment. For instance, the snakes are kept there with their mouths taped, while the turtles (which really are solitary animals) were packed into several murky, small-for-turtle pens. Civets were kept in dirty cages which allows them to experience improper breeding and stimulation. Furthermore, tourists are subject to high-price services being offered on the departure spot leading there - that is, at BMR Watersport. There, you will be led into boats that take you to that place, which is actually not in an island - that is, it is accessible by land (not just water). These boat trips are generally expensive, and stop for a while at a very small coral reef situated offshore, where several boats also wait, before going to your final destination - the "turtle ‘island’".

It is all part of a system - guides, drivers, and tour agencies gets a cut (commission) from the company when they bring tourists there.

If you have any concern about animal welfare, make sure that you visit the licensed (and government-funded) TCEC at Serangan. Do not support any tour agencies, drivers, or guides, that attempt to lead tourists and locals to the fake "conservation center" at Tanjung Benoa.

Satria Agrowisata

Another scam in Bali involves a "coffee plantation" called Satria Agrowisata, which specialises on kopi luwak. In it, visitors are subject to luwaks that has been "drugged up" and exorbitant prices of their "tea"s and "coffee"s. Furthermore, while their "tea"s and "coffee"s are not really tea and coffee powder at all, but just useless sweet-tasting powder, with one review stating that it was just "kool-aid"; the ingredients are also not specified at all, with some claiming to be "sugar-free" but in fact it is sweet, so you will never know what are the actual contents of the product.

If you want to sample coffees, make sure that you go to Seniman Coffee Studio at Ubud. Also, do not support any tour agents, guides, or drivers that bring you into Satria Agrowisata or similar kopi luwak-based scams.

Stay healthy

The standards of healthcare and emergency facilities remain below what most visitors would be accustomed to in their home country. Whilst minor illness and injury can be adequately treated in the ubiquitous local clinics most overseas visitors would not be comfortable having serious problems dealt with in a local hospital, and insurance coverage for emergency medical evacuation is therefore a wise precaution. If a medical evacuation is required then patients are normally moved to Singapore or Perth in Australia . Jakarta , Indonesia's capital, does however have at least 5 international accredited hospitals, if you are seeking luxury medical attention at a closer location. Sanglah Hospital in Denpasar, though less luxurious, has also been internationally accredited since 2014.

Even if you have travel insurance, most clinics and hospitals may require payment in advance, or sometimes by incremental payment as various services are rendered. This may require access to a quite significant amount of cash to keep things moving. Any claim is then made to the insurance company upon your return home. This is almost always the case if the problem is one that can be dealt with on an outpatient basis. Make sure that your insurance company has an agreement with the provider or immediately establishes one, otherwise you will also be landed with a bill for an inpatient stay. Bali International Medical Centre (BIMC) has agreements with many insurance companies and is a well serviced hospital. This is however a relatively expensive option and even they ask for payment for outpatient treatments.

The major travel insurance companies may be slow to respond with appropriate assistance and equally slow to refer a claimant to a suitable medical service. Delays may also be experienced if the insurer is slow or indecisive in authorising treatment. Difficulties may arise from an insurer not authorising a payment guarantee to the local medical services provider. Delays in rendering appropriate treatment are a common outcome. Try to gain a comprehensive understanding of the policy terms and limitations of your travel insurance cover well before departing your home country. Trying to gain an understanding of the limitations of cover during a crisis is not recommended.

Some travel insurance companies and their emergency response centres may not live up to your own expectations of regional knowledge, appropriate case management and speedy response. Your best insurance is always common sense, some basic pre-departure research on your destination and the application of good situational awareness whilst travelling. Try to have your own plan in place to deal with any crisis you may encounter when travelling rather than relying solely upon a possibly inadequately skilled and under-qualified person sitting in a distant call centre who may have their own role complicated by problems with language, communication and access to the insurers decision makers. You may wish to consider carrying the names and contact numbers of one or two of the major local medical and evacuation providers in your wallet or purse so that you know how to quickly obtain medical assistance should an emergency arise. Always ensure that you contact your insurer as soon as possible should an emergency arise otherwise you may find they are later unwilling to accept liability for payment for any expenses that arise. Always keep a thorough record of all expenditures and communications with your insurer and obtain full and detailed invoices and receipts for all services provided and any incidental costs. If you do not understand the detail of anything that you are billed for, ask for an explanation; if information is not forthcoming withhold payment or authorisation until such time as an acceptable explanation is given.

International SOS Indonesia (AEA SOS Medika) was founded in Indonesia in 1984 and has grown into an international organisation handling around 9 million cases per year. It has a professionally staffed and operated clinic in Bali. They offer clinic services, hospital referral and emergency medical evacuation services. They have agreements or associations in place with many of the major travel insurers and are a principal medical service supplier in the Southeast Asian region, including Indonesia.

The midday sun in Bali will fry the unwary traveller to a crisp, so slap on plenty of high-factor sun protection and drink lots of fluids. However, there is no need to carry litres of water as you can buy a bottle virtually anywhere. The locals tend to stay away from the beaches until about two hours before sunset, when the sun's heat and UV intensity have diminished.

Travelling to Bali may expose you to some risks in contracting one of many tropical diseases that are present in the region. Bali is officially a malaria -free zone but dengue fever is a problem and all sensible precautions should be taken against being bitten by mosquitoes .

Take care in restaurants and bars; although it is very rare nowadays, some may use untreated/unsafe tap water to make ice for drinks otherwise made with clean ingredients. Tap water in hotels should not be used for drinking or brushing teeth unless explicitly labelled as safe.

Drink adulteration or contamination with methyl alcohol (methanol) and drink spiking in bars and clubs are not uncommon in Bali. Sensible precautions should be taken when buying and consuming beverages. During 2009/2010 a number of Indonesians and visiting tourists in Java, Bali and Lombok/Gili Islands were poisoned by consuming drinks containing methyl alcohol resulting in fatalities. Methyl alcohol (AKA methanol or wood alcohol) is dangerous and has been found in some locally produced alcoholic drinks including locally made Arak. The symptoms of methanol poisoning are drowsiness, a reduced level of consciousness, confusion, headache, dizziness, and the inability to coordinate muscle movement (ataxia). If methyl alcohol poisoning is suspected seek medical assistance immediately.

The HIV infection rate in Bali is increasing, mainly among sex workers of both genders and intravenous drug users. If you engage in any risky activity, always protect yourself.

Finally, be careful around monkeys. They may be habituated to humans, but they are wild animals, and being bitten or scratched by a monkey could result in your contracting any number of maladies, possibly including rabies. So you are best off keeping your distance, especially if a monkey seems to be behaving erratically. If you are bitten or scratched by a monkey or bat, get medical help immediately, as rabies, if not treated before symptoms occur, is almost 100% fatal.

Owing to overtourism and Bali's attractiveness as a cheap, mass-market tourist destination, some visitors end up doing stupid things in Bali. Now, more than ever, they are likely to be caught and punished. In February 2024, the Balinese government launched a new tourist police unit to deal with troublemaking foreigners. As of April 2024, this force comprises over 70 officers. In 2023, the Balinese government deported 340 foreigners for overstaying visas, working illegally, and behaving inappropriately at sacred places such as temples. This is an increase of 80% over the number of deportations for 2022. It goes without saying that foreign visitors should behave respectfully when visiting sacred sites, and, if you encounter police, follow their instructions and keep your cool.

Unfortunately, it is very unlikely you will find a working public telephone on the street, which can be very frustrating in emergency situations. Depending on your circumstances, you may have to rely on mobile phones (local SIM cards may be used in unlocked phones with economical local and international calling rates) or phone/internet shops. Budget accommodation options are unlikely to offer telephone services to guests. Private rental phone booths (frequently together with internet rental) are available almost everywhere in Bali, mostly in Kuta and Legian, but the number is decreasing, because of cheap mobile phone prices which can easily be obtained for under Rp 300,000. Around Kuta and Legian, there are Biznet WiFi spots which are very fast and easy to use from your device. The voucher can be bought in Alfamart: Rp 10,000 for 500MB/10 days or Rp 30,000 for 2GB/30 days, and can be used in up to 2 devices.

It is worth investing in a SIM card for your own mobile phone, if only to use rideshare services like Grab and translate menus and signs with Google Translate. SIM cards are widely available at roadside stalls and phone service shops. Recent law changes means foreigners need to their passport to buy a SIM card; it will be photographed and registered in a database, but the vendor will fold a page over so your signature is not captured. A card alone should be just a few thousand; the smallest data package available to foreigners seems to be 6 GB for Rp 100,000.

International Direct Dialing prefix: 001, 007, or 008. (the three digits prefix means using non-internet phone, which the tariff is more expensive than the internet phone and sometimes up to 8x.)

International phone operators , ☏ 101 .
Directory enquiries , ☏ 108 . (if using a cell phone locally dial the area code you are in (e.g. 0361) and then 108
Immigration office , Niti Mandala, Renon, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 227828 .
Immigration office , I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport , ☏ +62 361 751038 .

Bali has six area codes.

0361 : all of South Bali ( Bukit Peninsula , Canggu , Denpasar , Jimbaran , Legian , Nusa Dua , Sanur , Seminyak , Tanah Lot ) plus Gianyar, Tabanan and Ubud )
0362 : Lovina , Pemuteran and Singaraja
0363 : Amed , Candidasa , Karangasem, Kintamani , Padang Bai , Tirta Gangga
0365 : Negara , Gilimanuk , Medewi Beach , West Bali National Park
0366 : Bangli, Besakih , Kintamani , Klungkung , Mount Agung , Nusa Ceningan , Nusa Lembongan , Nusa Penida
0368 : Bedugul
Ambulance , ☏ 118 .
Indonesian Red Cross ( PMI ), ☏ +62 361 4872680282 (+62 361 48sanu0282) . free ambulance service
Police , ☏ 110 .
Search & Rescue team , ☏ 115, 151, +62 361 751111 .
Tourist Police , ☏ +62 361 754599 , +62 361 763753 .
Bali Police HQ , Jl WR Supratman, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 227711 .
Badung Police HQ , Jl Gunung Sanghyang, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 424245 .
Denpasar , Jl Ahmad Yani , ☏ +62 361 225456 .
Sanur , Jl By Pass Ngurah Ra , ☏ +62 361 288597 .
Kuta , Jl Raya Tuban , ☏ +62 361 751598 .
Nusa Dua , Jl By Pass Nusa Dua , ☏ +62 361 772110 .
RS Umum Sanglah , Jl Kesehatan 1, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 243307 , +62 361 227911 , +62 361 225483 , +62 361 265064 .
RS Umum Badung , Jl Raya Kapal Mengwi, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 7421880 .
RS Umum Dharma Usadha , Jl Jend Sudirman 50, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 227560 , +62 361 233786 , +62 361 233787 .
RS Umum Manuaba , Jl HOS Cokroaminoto 28, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 426393 , +62 361 226393 .
RS Umum Surya Husadha , Jl Pulau Serangan 1-3, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 233787 .
RS Umum Wangaya , Jl RA Kartini 133, Denpasar , ☏ +62 361 222141 .

Selected medical clinics with English language abilities:

Bali International Medical Centre ( BIMC ), Jl By Pass Ngurah Rai 100 X, Kuta , ☏ +62 361 761263 .
Manuaba , Jl Raya Kuta Nusa Indah Plaza Bl IX, Kuta , ☏ +62 361 754748 .
Nusa Dua Medical , Nusa Dua Beach Hotel, Nuas Dua , ☏ +62 361 772118 .
Surya Husadha , Jl Danau Buyan 47, Sanur , ☏ +62 361 285236 (Jl. Kartika Plaza 9-X), +62 361 752947 .
SOS , Jl By Pass Ngurah Rai 505X, Kuta , ☏ +62 361 710505 .
Siloam , Jalan Sunset Road No.818, Kuta, Kut, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung , ☏ +62 361 779900 .

Central Bali

Toyo Medika Clinic , Jl Raya Pengosekan, Ubud , ☏ +62 361 971 264 .
Ubud Clinic , Jl Raya Ubud 36, Ubud , ☏ +62 361 974911 .
Klungkung Hospital , Jl Flamboyan 40-42, Klungkung , ☏ +62 366-21172 .
Prodia Clinic , Jl RA Kartini 12, Singaraja , ☏ +62 362 24516 .
Kertha Usadha Hospital , Jl. Cendrawasih No.5 - 7, Kaliuntu, Singaraja , ☏ +62 362 26277 . Nurses and receptionists have English skills. Parking Rp5,000 . ( updated Sep 2020 )
Kerta Yasa Clinic , Jl Ngurah Rai 143, Negara , ☏ +62 365 41248 .

Some countries have set up consulates or honorary consulates in Bali, all in the Denpasar area, and often with "Denpasar" in the consulate's name, even if the consulate is in a nearby town. The Australian, Austrian, Japanese, Swiss and U.S. consulates are in Denpasar; the Czech, Chilean, Finnish, French, German, Swedish and UK consulates are in Sanur ; the Danish and Norwegian honorary consulates are in Jimbaran ; the Hungarian and Dutch consulates are in Kuta ; and the honorary Malaysian consulate is in Legian . Full listings for these consulates and honorary consulates are in the articles for those cities.

Boat services run regularly to Lombok , Flores and islands further east. Combined bus and ferry services will take you to destinations in Java such as Yogyakarta .

Lombok is growing as an alternate to Bali with a majority Muslim population. Attractions include beaches, waterfalls and volcanoes. Reachable by boat from Padangbai.
The Gili Islands are three tiny islands very close by to the northwest coast of the main island of Lombok. A backpacker favourite fast going upmarket and easily accessed by direct boat services.
Flores the next star destination in Nusa Tenggara region where you can find the Komodo dragon, see 3-colour Kelimutu Lake, and explore the Manggarai and Ngadha cultures. Flight time 90 minutes from Bali.
Yogyakarta for sightseeing of Prambanan and Borobudur Temples.
Bandung , known for its textiles, Art Deco buildings and pleasant cafes, is near Jakarta but conveniently served from Bali using AirAsia service (flight time around 1+ hour).

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Bali Travel Guide and Tips: How to Plan the Perfect Bali Itinerary

Traveling to Bali was the main reason I visited Asia for the first time. The incredible photos I had seen of the green rice terraces instantly convinced me to take a trip to Bali.

However, since I was traveling so far, I thought it would be a good idea to visit other countries and areas of Indonesia during my trip to Southeast Asia . Ultimately, as time was limited, I spent 7 days in Bali, following the advice Dan had given me after his vacation in Bali a few months before.

How to plan the perfect Bali Itinerary

To help you plan a trip to Bali, we have compiled everything you need to know before you go to this magical island of Indonesia.

This is our Ultimate Bali Travel Guide and the first Capture the Atlas post that you should read if you’re going to travel to Bali. From here, you’ll find links to other specific articles about Bali that we’ve written (you can see the full list at the end).

Additionally, we’ll share some essential Bali travel tips for first-time visitors. But before you start planning a Bali itinerary , are you sure you want to go there?

Bali vacation – Why you need to travel to Bali

I can assure you that Bali is still worth visiting even if nowadays it’s very touristy. It’s a great destination for all kinds of travelers. I went backpacking in Bali , but some friends went to Bali on their honeymoon, and we all came back delighted.

Without a doubt, the best thing about spending a holiday in Bali is experiencing a new culture, and Bali is the island of smiles; it’s impossible not to fall in love with its people and their way of life.

Holiday in Bali, the guide that helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Bali

On the other hand, you should know that the influx of tourists in Bali has not stopped growing, and thanks to this, the Balinese live much better than locals in other, poorer islands of Indonesia. However, there are also some drawbacks to tourism in Bali. It’s important that we, who are lucky enough to travel to the Island of the Gods, practice responsible tourism in Bali so that we can all continue enjoying the island in the future.

Traveling to Bali is simply a unique experience, and I hope to help you make it unforgettable with this Bali trip planner.

How to plan a trip to Bali – The best Bali itinerary

Planning a trip to Bali is not complicated, since you can book almost everything online, and there is a lot of information everywhere. In general, to plan a trip to Bali , follow these ten steps:

Things to do in Bali: Check out the best places to visit.
Best Bali itinerary: Choose the best Bali itinerary according to the days you have.
Best time to visit Bali: When to go to Bali depending on your interests.
Cheap flights to Bali: Where to get the best deals.
Hotels and Villas in Bali: Best areas and accommodations.
How to get around Bali: Scooter rental in Bali or private driver.
Best tours in Bali: Tours that will save you time and money.
How much cost for a vacation to Bali: Currency, prices, and money per day.
Bali visa information: Check that you have the necessary documentation.
Safety in Bali: Vaccines, malaria tablets and travel insurance.

In addition, at the end of this article, we’ll give you other Bali Travel Tips : Internet access, restaurants, driving in Bali, and more.

Bali travel guide (Indonesia) –Essential Bali travel tips

In this Bali travel guide, we walk you through every step of planning your trip to Bali. You’ll find a lot of useful tips based on our own experience, along with some anecdotes of our trips to Bali .

1. Best places to visit in Bali

There are so many places you can’t miss on the Island of the Gods that it’s difficult to choose. To help you out, we’ve written a list of 60 things to do in Bali , Indonesia, so you don’t miss a thing.

To sum it up, these are the most important attractions to visit during your trip to Bali.

Best temples in Bali

Without a doubt, there is nothing like Bali temples, so the first thing you have to do is pinpoint the most important ones.

lempuyang temple bali indonesia planning a vacation

First Bali Travel Tip: Don’t try to visit all the temples

Besakih Temple: Mother Temple. The biggest temple in Bali.
Ulun Danu Beratan: The most photographed temple in Bali, on Lake Bratan.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu: Temple on a cliff. An ideal place to watch the sunset.
Tanah Lot: Bali’s most touristy temple, only accessible at low tide.
Lempuyang Temple: Temple of the Gates to Heaven.

There are more than 1,000 temples in Bali, so one of the most well known tips for traveling to Bali is not to get frustrated if you can’t see them all. Even so, I leave you with a slightly more extensive list of temples in Bali that I recommend you visit.

Best rice terraces in Bali

The rice terraces are the best of Bali. Rice is the base ingredient in Balinese cuisine, and as such, rural life revolves around the cultivation of this cereal. If you choose the best time to visit Bali, you’ll be rewarded with green rice paddies and unforgettable landscapes.

Although there are many rice terraces in Bali, these are the best ones:

tegalalang rice fields best bali attractions

Bali Travel Guide (Indonesia): Visiting the Tegalalang is one of the main things to do in Bali

Tegalalang: The most popular rice paddies in Bali.
Jatiluwih: Considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO .

Best villages in Bali

The traditional villages are something you must visit in Bali because they are full of art and good vibes. While there, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to learn more about Balinese culture and traditions.

Ubud market, a must-visit in Bali

Ubud: Bali artistic and cultural center. Check our complete list of things to do in Ubud.
Penglipuran: Traditional village ideal for learning about Balinese culture.
Canggu: Coastal town very popular for its perfect waves for surfing.

Best beaches in Bali

Taking a trip to Southeast Asia and not planning some time at the beach is a sin. Most of Bali’s best beaches aren’t found on the main island, but rather, on the small islands surrounding Bali. These are the beaches that you should not miss.

how to travel to bali simple itinerary beachs

Kelingking Beach: don’t miss it on your trip to Bali

Kelingking Beach: You’ll find some of the best beaches in Bali on the Nusa Islands.
Balagan Beach: One of the many turquoise beaches in the Uluwatu area.
Jimbaran Beach: The best beach to eat fresh fish with incredible views.
Pasut Beach: Black sand beach where you will find a famous crooked palm tree.
Kuta: Popular surfing beach among Australian tourists. Party destination.
Seminyak: Very popular at sunset, with beautiful beach clubs.

Best volcanoes in Bali

Bali is a volcanic island that has a lot of activity. Additionally, the volcanoes of Bali are not just part of the landscape. The religion, customs, and traditions of the Balinese people are intimately linked with the volcanoes of the island.

Sunrise at Batur Volcano: Best tour to take in Bali

Mt Batur: From the summit, you can see the best sunrise in Bali.
Agung: Highest volcano in Bali. The last time it erupted was in 2017.

Best waterfalls in Bali

Visiting the waterfalls of Bali is the best way to get out of the stifling heat. You can even take a dip in some of them. Although most are far from the most touristy sites, on this tour you can see three of the most important Bali waterfalls.

traveling to bali for the first time itinerary

Include at least one waterfall in your Bali itinerary

Nung Nung: Bali’s most popular waterfall, which is 230 ft tall.
Tukad Cepung: This waterfall is hidden in a cave.
Banyumala: It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali.
Tegenungan: The best waterfall to bathe in in Bali.

Other things to do in Bali

The list is endless! But below you will find the five best things to see in Bali.

Tips for traveling to Bali: Beware of Monkey Forest inhabitants

Monkey Forest: The best place to have fun watching the monkeys of Bali.
Wanagiri Hidden Hill: Place full of swings, and straw baskets overlooking the great lakes of Bedugul.
Karang Boma Cliff: Cliffs located south of Bali from which you can watch the sunset.

In addition, I advise you to use this map of Bali to help you figure out where the places we’re talking about are. With this map, you’re totally ready to plan the best Bali itinerary .

2. Best Bali itinerary

To plan a trip to Bali , once you know what you want to do and where the different attractions are located, it’s time to choose the best Bali itinerary . Since the road conditions are not as good as Google Maps says, another of our tips for traveling to Bali is to leave plenty of time to travel from one place to another.

How many days do you need to visit Bali?

In my opinion, the minimum number of days to spend in Bali is four days. With this time and good planning, you can see most of the essentials places to visit in Bali. However, unless it’s impossible to book more days for Bali, I recommend you spend at least one week in Bali. If you don’t have that much time and still want to visit the landmarks, check out these top-rated tours in Bali.

One-week Bali itinerary idea

This is the best Bali itinerary if you only have 7 days:

Day 1: Arrive in Ubud . Beginning of your 7-day Bali trip.
Day 2: Tegalalang rice terraces and Ubud surroundings.
Day 3: Sunset hike at Batur . The best of my one-week Bali tour.
Day 4: Eastern Temples of Bali – Besakih, Lempuyang and Tirta Gangga.
Day 5: Ulun Danu Beratan. Essential temple to visit in Bali in 7 days.
Day 6: Taman Ayun Temple, Tanah Lot and Canggu.
Day 7: Jimbaran and Uluwatu . End of your trip to Bali in a week.

one-week bali trip itinerary infographic

Best Bali itinerary for one week

10-day Bali itinerary idea

If you only have 10 days, this it the Bali itinerary I recommend you do:

Day 1: Beginning of your trip to Bali in 10 days.
Day 2: Batur sunrise tour.
Day 3: Besakih, Tirta Gangga, Lempuyang and Amed.
Day 4: Tegalalang and surroundings of Ubud.
Day 5: Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and Bedugul waterfalls.
Day 6: Jatiluwih, Pasut beach, Tanah Lot and Seminyak.
Day 7: Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.
Day 8: Nusa Penida.
Day 9: Uluwatu.
Day 10: Jimbaran.

Best 10-day Bali itinerary

I hope you find these Bali itinerary ideas useful !

3. Best time to visit Bali

Many people ask us when to visit Bali, and the answer always varies. It’s not the same for someone who’s very interested in seeing green rice paddies as it is for someone whose reason to travel to Bali is to surf, so we tell you in more detail about the best time to go to Bali in this article.

when is the best time to plan a trip to bali

Best time to visit Bali if you want to surf

Most agree that the best time to visit Bali is from April to November, coinciding with the dry season. The monsoon in Bali is from the end of October until April.

What you should know about the weather in Bali is that, unlike other places in Southeast Asia, the monsoon on this island is quite mild, so you can consider any time a good time to visit Bali.

The high season of Bali is considered July, August, and also Christmas, when many tourists decide to spend the holiday season on this island .

4. Flights to Bali, Indonesia

Once you’re sure about the Bali itinerary you want to take, it’s time to book your flights to Bali.

In my case, I usually book flights three months in advance, since it is statistically when they are cheapest.

The Bali airport that all international flights arrive at is the Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is very close to Denpasar, the capital of Bali.

Sometimes, you’ll find it difficult to get direct flights to Bali. Most of the time, you will need to make a connection at the Shanghai or Dubai airport.

I usually use Kiwi.com to find the best combination, since you can activate an alert to be notified if the price of flights to Bali drops. The cheapest airline to travel to Bali is usually China Eastern Airlines, although sometimes cheap flights to Bali can also be found with Qatar Airways or Emirates.

In my case, I flew with Qatar but used the following trick to find cheap flights to Bali .

Cheap flights to Bali

To get the cheapest flights to Asia from the US, you must know they arrive at the airports of Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Kuala Lumpur, so I recommend you take a flight from your home country to one of these airports and from there, take a local flight to Denpasar Airport, since they are the cheapest connections to Bali.

In addition to getting a cheap flight to Bali, you can visit these cities.

In my case, I flew to Singapore before going to Bali and came back through Kuala Lumpur , and although it was not the cheapest way to get to Bali since I took two one-way flights instead of one round-trip, it was worth it .

5. Where to stay in Bali

If you already know the exact dates of your trip and your Bali itinerary is ready, it’s time to book your hotels in Bali.

My next Bali travel tip is that you stay in Ubud. Although there are plenty of accommodation options in Bali, Ubud is my favorite area if you plan to take some of the essential tours. For example, to climb Mt. Batur or visit the eastern temples , this area is the best. These are my recommended accommodations in Ubud according to your budget.

PREMIUM OPTION

Ulun ubud resort.

Ulun Ubud Resort , located in Sanggingan, 3 miles from the Ubud temple, is the perfect hotel for even the most demanding guests. The rooms have a modern Balinese style and your pool in the middle of the Bali jungle will make you never want to return from your vacation.

Ulun Ubud Resort

ADIWANA MONKEY FOREST

Adiwana Monkey Forest is located 1 mile from the Ubud market. This hotel has 21 suites, which mix the charm of the Monkey Forest with the indigenous culture of the area. Wondering where to stay in Bali ? If you want greater immersion in Balinese culture, this is one of the best hotels thanks to its healthy and traditional gastronomic offerings.

beautiful hotel in bali with bath tub at the bedroom

Adiwana Monkey Forest

STANDARD OPTION

B saya villas.

B Saya Villas is a complex that has simple, traditional-style villas with wooden furniture. Since it’s located among rice fields, you’ll have fantastic sunset views from your terrace. In addition, every morning, they organize yoga sessions. For me, it’s one of the best accommodations in Bali , with prices starting at $40 per night.

best cheaps accommodation to travel in a group to bali

B Saya Villas

LOW COST OPTION

Teja home stay.

Teja Home Stay is located near the Ubud art market. This family business is one of the most popular hotels in Bali . It stands out for its garden surrounded by fountains, where you can see exotic birds. It offers rooms from $20 per night with continental breakfast included.

Teja Home one of the best places to stay in Bali

Teja Home Stay

In addition, in the surroundings of Ubud, you can find some of the best villas in Bali, at a lower price than you could imagine. If you’ve dreamed of sleeping in the middle of the jungle or enjoying breakfast in your private infinity pool, this is the best place.

Where to stay in Bali: there are luxury villas in Bali for less than $100

Another of the places where I recommend staying for a few days is in the southern area, in Uluwatu, where some of the best hotels in Bali are located. Additionally, you’ll get better access to other tourist attractions that are in this area, such as, for example, some of the best beaches in Bali. These are our four recommended accommodations in Uluwatu:

ANANTARA ULUWATU BALI RESORT

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort is one of the most exclusive accommodations in Bali and is located in a unique enclave near the Pura Uluwatu temple and Nusa Dua beach. The resort offers views of the Indian Ocean from all angles, as well as rooms and villas in a contemporary Balinese style with direct access to an infinity pool and a balcony with jacuzzi.

Are there any overwater bungalows in Bali?

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort

RENAISSANCE BALI ULUWATU RESORT & SPA

This modern luxury resort in Bali is surrounded by hills. Both its rooms and the infinity pool have incredible views of the jungle and the ocean. At Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa staff can provide information about the history of the indigenous people in the area, and you can even relax with a spa session.

Luxury resorts in Bali that you book for your Renaissance vacation

Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa

TORAJA BAMBU BOUTIQUE HOTEL

As its name suggests, this eleven-room boutique hotel is built with bamboo. Toraja Bambu Boutique promises a totally immersive experience. Its rooms have traditional Indonesian interior and exterior finishes, and overlook the pool and jungle.

The most luxurious hotels in Bali Toroja Bambu, an essential place to stay in Bali

Toraja Bambu Boutique

PADANG-PADANG INN

Padang-Padang Inn is a three-star hotel that stands out for its proximity to Padang-Padang beach, famous for its slanting palm tree. A great low-priced option, it has an attractive pool, and car and bicycle rental service.

Hotel in the middle of the jungle in Bali area with more options to stay in Bali

Padang-Padang Inn

Ubud and Uluwatu are my two favorites, but there are other areas to stay in Bali that I recommend.

6. How to get around Bali

When planning a trip to Bali, one of the main concerns is usually the best way to travel around Bali. Here, we bring you four options that will depend a bit on your budget and interests.

Transfers in Bali

Booking transfers in Bali can be a good option to go from Denpasar airport to Ubud and other areas of the island. However, it can be difficult to book transfers in Bali. If that is the case, you’ll need to rent your own vehicle or hire a private driver directly for all the transfers you have to do during the day, which will save you some money.

Even if you plan to rent a scooter in Bali, I recommend you don’t do it at Denpasar Airport. It’s better to book a transfer from Bali Airport to Ubud or to the area where you’re going to spend the first day of your trip in Bali and familiarize yourself with traffic before driving.

We booked the first transfer from Denpasar to Ubud here, since the price was the cheapest we found. In addition, we liked our driver so much that we hired him as a private driver for the next few days of our trip to Bali.

Scooter rental in Bali

Dan rode a scooter during his trip to Bali and wrote a guide with everything you need to know if you are renting a motorcycle in Bali. Some of the tips for traveling to Bali that he gives in that guide are:

Learn how to ride a scooter before traveling to Bali
Drive like the Balinese if you don’t want the police to fine you
Take your international driver’s license with you
Always wear a helmet
Hire good travel insurance to Bali

plan a itinerary for a bali vacation holidays

Another of the best Bali travel tips: Hire travel insurance

Car rental in Bali

Renting a car in Bali is another option, which neither Dan nor I have tried, so we can’t tell you about our experience. However, in my case, I did look at this alternative when I was planning my trip to Bali, and it seemed quite expensive, so in the end, I ended up discarding it.

Also, you should keep in mind that Bali is made for scooters, and traffic jams can sometimes be horrible. If scooters are not your thing, I advise you to hire a private driver in Bali before renting your own car.

Private driver in Bali

It is, undoubtedly, the most comfortable option but also the most expensive. Normally you can hire a private driver in Bali for hours (10 hours) and during that time, they will take you wherever you need. We had booked a private driver here, but when we met our driver during the transfer from the airport to Ubud , we liked him so much that we canceled the other reservation.

However, some friends, who went on a honeymoon to Bali a few months after my trip, hired the driver through that platform, and they told me the service was great.

GRAB – Uber in Bali

Before traveling to Bali, Dan recommended I download an app similar to Uber or Lyft and told me that it worked pretty well in Bali for short journeys.

However, I tried to use it during my trip, and there were almost never any drivers nearby.

I could only use it once in Ubud, and the driver told me that local taxi drivers had declared war on this application, since the prices were much lower than those that the taxi drivers charged tourists. In any case, I encourage you to try it and tell me how it goes in the comment section.

Public Transportation in Bali

Although there is public transportation in Bali, it’s slow, and there is little information about it online. It’s true that it’s the best way to travel to Bali on a budget, but I don’t recommend it if you are going to spend a short time on the island.

The most common means of transport are the Kura Kura, small green buses, the Bemo , a kind of van, and the Trans Sarbagita, conventional blue buses.

To know how to get from one place to another in Bali via local transport , it’s best to check with your accommodation .

7. Best tours in Bali

My next tip for traveling to Bali, if you don’t want to rent a car or scooter or hire an expensive private driver either, is to book some tours, especially to those areas of Bali that are more inaccessible or where going with a local guide is mandatory. You will also need to hire tours or ferries to visit one of the archipelagos of paradise islands that surround Bali.

Visiting the Gili Islands is probably one of the most popular excursions, so we’ve written a small guide to tell you the best things to do and which one to visit. We decided on Gili Trawangan.

plan trip to bali itinerary gili trawangan

Visiting the Gili Islands is highly recommended during your vacation in Bali

In addition, in this article on the best tours in Bali , I recommend 4 excursions with which you can visit the most important places in Bali in only four days. In summary, these are the Bali tours that I recommend:

Sunrise on the Batur volcano: The best tour I did during my trip.
Ubud Surroundings: Best tour to visit the rice terraces of Tegalalang and Goa Gajah.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan + Jatiluwih + Tanah Lot: The most complete tour in Bali.
Eastern Temples: The tour that won’t miss the Pura Besakih and Pura Lempuyang temples.
Uluwatu and Jimbaran: Tour of southern Bali. Beaches, traditional dance, and seafood.
Nusa Lembongan: Round-trip speedboat to Nusa Lembongan with pickup at your hotel in Bali.
Nusa Penida: Round-trip speedboat to Nusa Penida with pickup at your hotel in Bali.
Gili Islands: Round-trip speedboat to Gili Trawangan or Gili Air with pickup at your Bali hotel.

8. Currency in Bali (Indonesia) – How much does it cost for a vacation to Bali

The currency in Bali (Indonesia) is the Indonesian rupee, and currently, $1 is equivalent to 14,200 IDR. That means you will have to handle much higher figures than you’re used to. Even if everything seems expensive, once you make the currency exchange, it may be much less than you’d imagined.

A trick that I recommend you do is to make a note of the most common exchanges ($1 -14.2k IDR, $2 -28.3k IDR, $5 -70.8k IDR, $10 -142k IDR, $50 -709k IDR, etc.) In this way, over the first days of your trip, you can quickly learn how much things cost in Bali.

I assure you that in two or three days you’ll have gotten used to Balinese currency and you won’t need to consult your notes anymore.

In most places, you can pay with a debit/credit card in Bali, although be careful because your bank can charge you extra for the currency exchange.

However, keep in mind that there are small shops that may not accept card payment. Therefore, it’s always advisable to carry some cash in Bali.

Currency exchange in Bali

If you plan to ex change money in Bali, I advise you to check how much the real exchange is before accepting any offer made to you by any Bali money changers.

ATMs in Bali

There are many ATMs in Bali , especially in tourist areas. Even if you travel to more remote places, such as the Gili Islands, you’ll still find ATMs on each island.

In addition, ATMs in Bali don’t charge a surcharge fee, so if you withdraw from any ATM in Bali, the only fee you need to pay is the one that your bank charges you.

Prices in Bali

Although it is a cheap country, Bali is the most touristy island in Indonesia, so you can find hotels from less than $10 to luxury villas for more than $1000 (there are also very cheap villas in Bali ). To answer the question of whether Bali is expensive or cheap depends more on who answers it than on the island itself.

If you go backpacking in Bali, you can survive on less than $10 a day. However, if you’re planning a honeymoon in Bali , plan at least $200 per person per day.

That’s why Bali is such a popular tourist destination: whatever your budget is, it’s a good option.

How much is a Bali vacation?

This table can give you an approximation of how much it costs for a vacation to Bali.

Consider the backpacking budget for Bali if you’re traveling long-term and not spending much is essential for you. If you don’t mind staying in less comfortable hotels and you prefer to use local transport and reach the sights on your own without hiring any tours, your vacation to Bali will cost around $30 per day, plus flights.

The standard budget is the one for most travelers in Bali. If you’re visiting the island for a few days and want to see almost everything in a very short time, you’ll need to hire some tours. As for accommodation, if you prefer to book amazing hotels for a very low price that’s impossible to find in other parts of the world, plan $135 per day plus flights.

The premium budget is for those who are traveling for a special occasion, honeymoons in Bali, or for all those who can afford it. If you want to experience staying in one of the best villas in Bali , hire private tours in Bali and of course, eat in the best restaurants, plan $270 per day plus flights .

9. Bali visa information

If you are from one of these 169 countries and are only spending a holiday in Bali (less than 30 days), you have visa exception. Just check that your passport doesn’t expire in the next six months from when you enter the country and that you have a couple of blank pages so that they can stamp it and give you an “admission permit.”

If you want to spend more time, you’ll need a visa for Bali.

Social cultural visa for Indonesia

If you plan to stay more than 30 days in Bali, the best option is to process a social cultural visa for Bali at the Indonesian embassy in your home country.

This visa will last 60 days, but you can extend it for up to 6 months. The price is $50 plus the renewal fee if you would like to stay for more than 60 days.

You can find more information on how to process your visa here.

Visa on arrival (VOA)

If you think you’ll stay for less than 30 days in Bali but you aren’t sure, I recommend you apply for your visa on arrival (VOA) at the arrival airport. This visa only allows you to stay in Bali for 30 days, but, one week before it expires, you can extend it for another 30 days . If you enter Bali without paying the VOA, you will not be able to extend your permit.

The price of the Bali visa on arrival is $35 and you can get it directly at the airport upon arrival. To renew it, you will have to go to immigration several times, so some travelers prefer to hire an agency directly to manage it, although it’s usually more expensive.

Another option, if you’ve run out of time for renewal or did not request your VOA upon your arrival in Indonesia, is to leave and re-enter the country (either with the visa exception to Bali or with the VOA). You can do it even on the same day, and you will have another 30 days in Bali, although this is perhaps the most expensive option. In addition, it is very likely that they will ask for your flight out of the country to verify that you don’t intend to stay in Indonesia longer .

10. Is Bali safe to visit?

Although when talking about security in Bali, you might think about terrorist attacks, earthquakes, and tsunamis in Bali , the truth is that this is not what you should worry about.

Apart from natural disasters, which can occur virtually anywhere in the world, Bali is one of the safest islands in Indonesia. Even so, you always must take certain precautions.

Both Dan and I have had personal experiences with accidents in Bali.

During my trip to Bali, a monkey bit me in the Monkey Forest of Ubud (it wasn’t a serious incident, but I got quite scared). There are also many tourists who have been robbed by these monkeys and those of Uluwatu. They have learned to get food by stealing and then giving back tourists’ belongings.

Be careful with the monkeys and follow our Bali travel tips

On the other hand, a friend of Dan had an accident with a scooter in Bali . But, luckily, he had bought good travel insurance to Indonesia that helped him with everything.

We also have some friends who were robbed of some of the money they had left in their hotel room and others who had their backpack taken while they were eating in a warung (you have to be careful about pickpockets in Bali ).

It’s also no wonder that you can get sick even if you have been careful enough to drink bottled water in Bali.

Long story short, Bali is not dangerous, but you must be careful. If you are traveling on a budget buy the cheapest travel insurance plan.

Bali travel insurance

Although Bali is safe, you can always experience unforeseen events, so if you want peace of mind, you should buy travel insurance to Bali.

We recommend Heymondo , but first, compare the best travel insurance companies on the market.

5% OFF your travel insurance

Vaccines in Bali

There are no mandatory vaccines for Bali, although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise getting vaccinated for Tetanus, Hepatitis A, and Typhus. In any case, I always advise you to go to your health center so they can give you some recommendations.

Malaria in Bali

There isn’t a high risk of malaria in Bali, although there is in some rural areas of Indonesia. Please share your itinerary with your doctor and check if you need to take malaria tablets for Bali .

Other Bali Travel Tips

Finally, here are some other Bali Travel Tips. If you have any other questions, leave them in the comments section, so we can add them to this part of the article.

Where to eat in Bali

The best place to eat in Bali is in warungs, small family restaurants where you can try the delicious cuisine of Bali.

Where to eat in Bali: You can’t miss the best warungs on the island

The best known Balinese recipe is Nasi Goreng, fried rice with eggs and vegetables that can be accompanied by meat or seafood. I loved it!

The best restaurants in Bali that I tried during my trip are located in Ubud.

Best SIM cards for Bali

It’s very easy to get internet connection in Indonesia . However, if you prefer having mobile data, I recommend you order one of these SIM cards for Indonesia .

Driving in Bali

Riding a motorcycle is one of the best options to explore Bali. However, I recommend you not do so without first following our advice to rent a scooter in Bali.

Additionally, it’s essential that you get an International Driver ’ s License for Bali, since, although you won’t need to show it when renting your scooter, the police can pull you over and fine you without it.

Supermarkets and shops in Bali

If you’re taking a long-term trip to Bali, you may want to cook instead of eating out every day. In this case, I recommend you go to the local markets that open in the morning and usually have fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, etc.

There are also large supermarkets where you can buy absolutely everything: from personal grooming items to drinks and food. The best known are Coco, Bintang, and Pepito.

You can also find small local stores where you can buy a snack or soda — some of these are open 24 hours a day.

What is the religion in Bali?

Religion in Bali plays a very important role in local Balinese life. Bali is the only island in Indonesia where Hinduism is the main religion. In most parts of Indonesia, most people are Muslims. In Bali, however, “Balinese Hinduism” is practiced, where Hindu and animist beliefs are mixed with the worship of Buddhist saints.

They believe in Karma, and because of that, Bali is called the “Island of Smiles,” but if you want to learn more about the culture of Bali, I recommend this tour.

Please respect the religion of Bali and its customs. You may be surprised at the beginning by the amount of Canang sari, which you will find on the floor, in the temples, and even at the counters of stores and hotel desks.

These offerings are made daily with flower petals, rice, lime leaves, and incense. It is true that they usually attract insects and generate a lot of dirt on the streets of Bali, but they are really important for locals and much less harmful than the plastic waste that others leave.

What clothes to wear in Bali Temples

You don’t need to remove your shoes before entering a temple in Bali. However, in some temples, you’ll be asked to cover your legs with a Sarong , whether you are a man or a woman.

A curious fact is that if you are a woman, in some temples, there are signs that ask you not to enter the temple if you are on your period.

What is the official language of Bali?

The official language of Bali is Indonesian , although Balinese is also spoken. A large part of the population also speaks English, especially those whose jobs are related to tourism and hospitality.

Where should I stay in Bali?

Ubud is one of the best areas to stay in Bali. In Kuta and Seminyak , there are also many accommodation options, although the best area to stay in luxury resorts in Bali is Nusa Dua.

Uluwatu is also a good place to sleep in Bali and visit its best beaches, and other option would be Bedugul, to visit the most remote areas of the island.

Responsible tourism in Bali

Finally, I don’t want to end this article on tips for traveling to Bali without asking you to be a responsible traveler.

Please, don’t hire tours in which animals are mistreated. Although there have never been elephants in Bali, it’s a shame to see how there are places with elephants in enclosures that are called “Sanctuaries.” This is done to attract tourists who, while thinking that they’re doing a good deed, are actually promoting a business that’s cruel to animals.

Elephant rides in Bali are not fun. These poor animals have been tortured for years so that tourists can pay to get on their backs for a while. Any place where you can interact with wild animals is a place where nature is not respected. Keep wildlife wild!

Please, there are a million things to do in Bali . You don’t need to add any activity that involves domesticated wild animals to make your trip to Bali a unique experience.

Essential Map for your trip to Bali

That’s all! Here is a map of Bali that will help you figure out where the main attractions are.

I hope you find this article useful to plan your trip to Bali , but before you go, here are the essentials for your trip to Bali.

Essentials to save on your trip to Bali

Check the best no-foreign transaction fee credit cards .

Find the BEST DEALS for the top accommodation options in Bali .

Get a 5% discount on your travel insurance for Bali .

Check the best tours in Bali to make the most of your time HERE and HERE .

CHEAP FERRIES from Bali (hotel pick-up not included).

If you have any questions when planning a trip to bali, leave us a comment. See you soon!

Ascen Aynat

8 replies on “ Bali Travel Guide and Tips: How to Plan the Perfect Bali Itinerary ”

I’ve found this information really useful. I cancelled a holiday here several years ago and went to Thailand instead, I absolutely love Thailand but would like to visit Bali after reading the information. It sounds like a week is enough to visit the most important cultural sites and would like to team it with another destination, any suggestions?

There are much more to see within Indonesia apart from Bali. I recommend checking Yogyakarta .

Let me know if you have any questions, Ascen

Great Article. Really useful. You have covered all the things for a perfect vacation.

thanks Raj! Have a nice trip to Bali!

Great article, thanks for sharing this! I visited Bali, Penida and the Gili Islands in February before quarantaine. Their are so much things to do and see on the Islands. I travelled the Islands with The 7 Holiday and they exceeded my expectations! I really had a wonderful and unique experience! The locals are so kind and helpful. I am curious to travel the rest of Indonesia as well.

Thanks for your message Ann, I’m happy you found our Bali travel guide useful!

As you said, there are so many things to do in Bali and surrrounding islands…if we speak about Indonesia you could spend months or even years visiting all the islands and wonders. We’d also love to travel back there and visit new islands, everything over there is so peaceful and beautiful 😉

Awesome article, strike to the point, thanks for sharing

Thank you! I hope you enjoy your trip to Bali 🙂

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Bali Travel Guide

Why Go To Bali

Known as the "Island of the Gods" for its devotion to Hinduism – best seen in its many temples, scattered across the whole island – Bali is something of a heaven on earth. Smoking volcanoes wrapped in green canopies, sandy shores fading into turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls surrounded by jungle make up the landscape here, and it rarely disappoints.

There's something for everyone in this lush, exotic paradise – from luxury travelers who come for the oceanfront resorts to adventurers looking to scale one of several volcanoes (including the famous Mount Batur, in Kintamani ). In the south, resort towns such as Kuta , Seminyak , Canggu and Uluwatu boast buzzing nightlife, trendy beach clubs and world-class surfing, while the north offers plenty for culture vultures and those looking to see less touristy spots.

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Bali Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Bali is between April and October, during the dry season, when you can expect warm, sunny days and low humidity. The offseason (from November to March) can be a great time to travel if you want to escape the crowds; downpours are often heavy but short-lived. Thanks to Bali's location close to the equator, in the southern hemisphere, daytime temperatures hover around the low 80s year-round, with only humidity and precipitation patterns changing. The lack of rain during the summer season makes Bali more comfortable for beachgoers.

Weather in Bali

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Check out remote neighbors The Gili Islands are about a 90-minute speedboat ride from Bali's east coast and offer pristine sands and zero traffic. There are no motorized vehicles, so you can cycle around on two wheels or hop on a horse and cart to explore.

Know culinary favorites In southern Bali, seafood is king. In central Bali, the local specialty is babi guling , or suckling pig slow-roasted on an open fire. You'll also find nasi goreng (fried rice with chicken and egg), mie goreng (stir-fried noodles) and chicken sate (satay) with peanut sauce on almost every local menu.

Nyepi is Bali's most important Hindu holiday Nyepi, or the "Day of Silence", marks the Balinese New Year, which falls in mid-March. On the day itself, everyone stays inside and is expected to remain silent. Businesses, schools, roads and the airport close for 24 hours. It's a magical, spiritual experience, with exuberant parades and festivities throughout the island in the days leading up to it.

How to Save Money in Bali

Book a local guest house Bali's luxury resorts and big-name brands can be pricey, but local guest houses and homestays often offer excellent value for money, so it's worth widening your search.

Be prepared to barter If you're shopping at one of Bali's many markets, you can normally barter to get a good price.

Eat at warungs Bali has plenty in the way of fancy beach clubs and high-end restaurants (which still offer excellent value compared to the U.S.), but if you want to save a little more, look for warung s. These are small, family-owned cafes/restaurants that normally offer lower prices.

Culture & Customs

As an island in Indonesia, the official (and dominant) language in Bali is Indonesian. However, you'll still hear Balinese (a Malayo-Polynesian language) being spoken by some locals. Because international tourism plays a key role in Bali's economy, English is widely spoken in larger towns and cities. That means you shouldn't have a problem getting around, buying souvenirs or ordering food.

The currency in Bali is the Indonesian rupiah. Since the rupiah to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check the current exchange rate before you go. For reference, $1 is equal to approximately 15,500 rupiahs.

In terms of religion, Bali is unique among the Indonesian islands, which are mostly Islamic. Hinduism is the predominant religion in Bali. Most of the temples found here are sacred Hindu sites, so be respectful of the customs you'll witness, such as praying in pools of water. To get a sense for the island's unique religion, it's well worth visiting some of Bali's temples.

What to Eat

Bali's cuisine scene is heavily Indonesian, with Chinese and Indian influences. Most dishes include rice, vegetables and meat or fish – and plenty of spice. Many meals feature base gede – a spice paste that usually consists of garlic, red chilies, nutmeg, turmeric, coriander, ginger, shrimp paste, coconut oil and bay leaves. There are several standout dishes that travelers should sample. Nasi goreng (fried rice with egg and chicken), mie goreng (fried noodles) and gado-gado (vegetables and tofu in peanut sauce) feature on almost every Indonesian menu. Order babi guling (turning pig) and you'll get a plate of tender roasted meat that's also crispy and caramelized. Bebek betutu is a spice-rubbed, slow-roasted duck often cooked in banana leaves. The satay (or sate ) in Bali includes strips of chicken, pork, fish or tofu placed on skewers and grilled over a hot flame, usually served with peanut sauce.

When it comes to restaurants, local warungs – family-run, affordable eateries – are the best places to find classic Indonesian dishes, while restaurants along the coast dish out casual meals with beautiful beach views. For upscale, international cuisine, there are plenty of great restaurants in and around the main resort areas – especially Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu and Uluwatu. Expect everything from Japanese and Indian to Mexican and Italian, with prices at a fraction of what you'd pay back home.

Getting Around Bali

The best way to get around Bali is by hired car or scooter. Hiring a car and driver grants you the freedom of roaming around the island without the hassle of having to drive yourself. Traveling by scooter is also very popular – but take care on the busy roads, and be prepared to weave through chaotic traffic (especially around the southerly resort towns of Kuta , Canggu and Seminyak ). Alternatively, car and scooter taxis are easy to come by and relatively cheap, especially in the south, and can be booked on the Grab or Gojek apps. If you're visiting neighboring islands such as Nusa Penida , Nusa Lembongan and the Gilis, there are speedboats and ferries from Bali ports including Sanur and Padangbai.

Most travelers arrive through I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), which is located between Kuta and Jimbaran on the island's southern tip. To reach your hotel, check in advance to see if there's a complimentary resort shuttle available. Some hotels also provide private transportation for a fee. If you plan to take a taxi, you'll prepay your fare at the airport's taxi counter. Fares range widely depending on your destination, but expect to pay around 120,000 to 150,000 rupiahs ($8 to $10) if you're going to Kuta or Seminyak and around 300,000 rupiahs (about $20) if you're going to Ubud.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least six months from when you enter the country and have at least two blank passport pages. You need a visa to enter Indonesia; you can get a 30-day visitor visa on arrival at the airport in Bali for 500,000 rupiahs (around $32). The temporary visa applies to tourist and short business trips only. If you are coming to Indonesia for more than 30 days, you either need to apply for a special visa prior to arrival, or extend the visa once in the country (local agencies in the main resort towns can arrange this). For more information, check out the U.S. Department of State's website .

You'll enjoy peace and quiet, plus the gorgeous beach scene, at Nusa Dua .

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Balinese woman carrying basket of flowers

How to plan a trip to Bali, Indonesia

As the world’s largest archipelagic nation, Indonesia encompasses thousands of geographically diverse destinations, but for culture, nature, adventure and relaxation, Bali stands out.

The tropical Indonesian island of Bali has enticed travellers for over a century with its coralline seas, sacred volcanoes, mist-shrouded lakes and vibrant living heritage. A favoured holiday destination for antipodeans, Bali's irresistible beaches beckon backpackers, surfers and families alike. The south-coast areas of Seminyak, Kuta and Canggu, close to the airport, are where most visitors flock to, but it’s even better when you roam a little further.

Flowers in the foreground with rice paddies and a mountain in the background

Best for: culture Straddling a series of river valleys at the base of Bali’s central highlands, Ubud was once a cluster of villages with an eclectic art colony that drew writers, painters and filmmakers from distant lands. Today, its museums house sprawling collections by the island’s most revered artists and dozens of small galleries exhibit contemporary works, such as Purga Artspace , attached to the endearing library cafe, Littletalks Ubud . Listen out for the exuberant polyphony of gamelan (traditional ensemble music) emanating nightly from the temples. Ubud also hosts a celebration of contemporary artists, Ubud Open Studios , and Southeast Asia’s largest annual literary event, Ubud Writers and Readers Festival .

Be sure to visit one of Bali’s best independent bookstores, Ganesha Bookshop , and one of the nation’s leading traditional textile conservationists, Threads of Life . Delve further into Ubud’s cultural past and present and see a host of archaeological treasures on a walking tour led by Ubud Story Walks . After a culture-packed day, refresh in a secluded bungalow and the natural stone pool at Rumah Semanggi . For a culturally immersive stay, Gayatri and Honeymoon Guesthouse both preserve Bali’s ornate architectural style, while an edifying introduction to Indonesia’s diverse regional cuisines can be found at Warung Pulau Kelapa , Nusantara and Hujan Locale .

Flowers in the foreground with a Hindunese temple on a lake in the background

Best for: nature The crisp air of Bedugul, a horticultural district in the undulating hills of central Bali, is a welcome reprieve from the dense humidity of the south. Overlooking Lake Beratan — said to have been Bali’s largest lake until an earthquake split it into three — lies Indonesia’s biggest botanical garden, Kebun Raya Bali. Established in the late 1950s, it contains 2,400 species from across the archipelago, including a giant ficus thought to be over 100 years old whose towering, Tolkienesque roots have tangled into awe-inspiring arches. A stroll east past ancient cycads is one of the island’s most picturesque picnic spots: a grassy slope fringed by the saffron blooms of flame trees before the duck-egg blue lake beyond.

Visitors can wake to this view at Kebun Raya Bali's onsite Guesthouse Etnobotani or take a 20-minute drive along the northeastern shore of neighbouring Lake Buyan to Giriwood , a boutique hotel with villas enveloped by the Wanagiri forest. Around one mile north is the trailhead to Banyu Wana Amertha, an ensemble of four exquisite waterfalls. When it’s time to refuel, the bebek timbungan — tender, aromatic duck cooked in bamboo — at Secret Garden Village is a delicious option.

Villages along a coastline with a mountain in the background

Best for: adventure Against the backdrop of majestic Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest and most sacred volcano, Amed on the island’s northeast coast is as enchanting below the water as it is above. A string of seven fishing villages fanning out from black sand shores, its usually calm seas and fertile volcanic soils have created a haven for weird and wondrous creatures. From otherworldly nudibranchs (soft-bodied marine molluscs) to mind-boggling mimic octopuses, the critters lurking in Amed’s silty depths have secured its reputation as a global hotspot for macro diving — a style of diving named after the kind of lens photographers use to capture such colourful marine life. Meanwhile, just over nine miles northwest in the shallow waters of Tulamben lies the coral-draped skeleton of the USAT Liberty , one of the most accessible wreck dive sites in the world.

If you prefer snorkelling over scuba diving, keep an eye out for hawksbill sea turtles gracefully gliding over the reefs fringing the coast. One of the healthiest reefs is just over 300ft west of The Kampung , two collections of charming wooden seafront bungalows and a spacious villa for up to ten guests. You can order in hearty Indonesian meals from Warung Agung (try the fragrant pepes ikan — fish steamed in a banana leaf) or sample the superb Spanish omelette from Zaitun.

Aerial view of a white-sand beach with traditional Balinese boats anchored

Best for: relaxation One of the island’s oldest tourism areas, Sanur’s gentle charm and relatively minimal traffic make it popular among visitors seeking Bali’s more serene side. In contrast to the southwest’s barrelling swells, Sanur’s southeast coast is an almost constantly calm tidal lagoon protected by distant reefs. At sunrise and sunset when the wind is low, the lagoon glows like a vast mirror, glassy and luminescent, reflecting the celestial hues of the changing sky. On clear dusks and dawns, the silvery silhouette of Mount Agung soars above the horizon.

A paved path — the first beachfront walk in Bali — stretches across the sand from Sanur Beach to Mertasari Beach around four miles south. Recently doubled to designate pedestrian and cycle lanes, it’s lined with clothing stalls, cafes, seafood restaurants and resorts, such as the boutique Tandjung Sari . Established in the early 1960s, the luxury heritage hotel has an open-air restaurant that serves refined Indonesian dishes and international favourites beneath the curving limbs of towering trees adorned with lanterns. Families looking for a relaxing getaway will enjoy the miniature water park at Prama Sanur Beach Bali and appreciate the creative comfort food at Soul on the Beach and Shotgun Social .

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Unveiling Bali: A Comprehensive Breakdown of Travel Costs

Welcome to Bali, a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable travel options. Whether you’re a budget traveler or looking for a luxury getaway, Bali has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll delve into the costs associated with traveling to Bali, from accommodations and food to transportation and activities. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect and how to plan your perfect Bali trip.

Accommodation Costs in Bali

Bali offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From luxury resorts to budget hostels, you can find a place that fits your needs. Here’s a breakdown of different types of accommodations and their average prices:

Luxury Resorts: $100 – $800 per night
Mid-Range Hotels: $40 – $100 per night
Budget Hostels: $5 – $20 per night
Private Villas: $50 – $400 per night

For more details and options, check out this guide on where to stay in Bali .

Food and Dining Costs

Bali is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of local Balinese cuisine and international flavors. Dining options range from street food to high-end restaurants. Here’s a look at the average costs:

Street Food: $1 – $3 per meal
Local Restaurants: $3 – $10 per meal
Mid-Range Restaurants: $10 – $30 per meal
High-End Restaurants: $30 – $100 per meal

Traditional Balinese dishes like Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Sate Lilit (minced meat satay) are must-tries. Explore local food markets for an authentic culinary experience.

Transportation Costs

Getting around Bali is relatively inexpensive. Options include renting a scooter, hiring a driver, or using ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab. Here are the average costs:

Scooter Rental: $4 – $7 per day
Car Rental: $20 – $50 per day
Private Driver: $40 – $60 per day
Ride-Hailing Services: $1 – $5 per ride

For longer distances, consider booking a shuttle service or a domestic flight. Bali’s transportation network makes it easy to explore the island at your own pace.

Activities and Attractions

Bali is packed with breathtaking attractions and exciting activities, many of which are budget-friendly or even free. Here’s a list of popular activities along with their costs:

Beach Visits: Free
Temple Visits: $2 – $5 entry fee
Water Sports: $10 – $50
Yoga Classes: $10 – $20
Cooking Classes: $30 – $60
Day Tours: $40 – $100

Don’t miss visiting iconic spots like Uluwatu Temple, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, and the Beaches of Seminyak. Participating in a Balinese cooking class is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Cost of Living in Bali

If you’re planning an extended stay in Bali, knowing the cost of living is essential. Here are average monthly expenses for a single person:

Accommodation: $300 – $1,500
Food: $200 – $600
Transportation: $50 – $200
Utilities and Internet: $50 – $100
Entertainment and Miscellaneous: $100 – $300

Bali is becoming a popular destination for digital nomads and expats due to its affordable cost of living and vibrant community. Consider renting a villa or an apartment for more comfort during your stay.

Budget Tips for Travelers

Traveling to Bali on a budget is entirely possible with some smart planning. Here are some tips to help you save money:

Book Flights Early: Take advantage of early bird discounts and promo deals.
Off-Season Travel: Visit during the off-peak season to enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds.
Stay in Hostels: Opt for budget-friendly hostels or homestays.
Eat Local: Enjoy delicious meals at local warungs (small family-owned eateries).
Public Transport: Utilize affordable public transportation options like buses and ride-hailing services.

By following these tips, you can stretch your budget and make the most of your Bali adventure without breaking the bank.

Bali remains one of the most captivating and affordable destinations for travelers around the world. From its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine to its stunning beaches and rich history, Bali offers an experience like no other. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and manage your travel costs efficiently. Have a fantastic time exploring the wonders of Bali!

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Unleashing Umami: Japanese Dashi and Mie’s Gourmet Delights image

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Exploring Wat Rong Khun: A Detailed Guide to Chiang Rai's White Temple Marvel

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A Flavorful Journey: Discover the Best Traditional Foods to Eat in India image

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Embark on a Shinobi Experience in Iga, the Birthplace of Ninjas: See, Listen, Feel—A Journey to Discover Your Inner Ninja image

In movies, dramas, and anime, shinobi, or ninjas, are depicted as shadowy heroes with superhuman physical abilities. Once very real figures in Japan, how did ninjas become ninjas? And what was their purpose? Mie Prefecture’s Iga region and Shiga Prefecture’s Koka region are considered the birthplace of these covert agents and are home to numerous historical sites and legends about them.

Exploring Ise-Shima National Park: Where Nature, Human Activities, and Mythology Coexist image

Ise-Shima National Park encompasses the Shima Peninsula in central Mie Prefecture and its surrounding areas. This vast expanse of green space, covering about 60,000 hectares, includes the inland area centered around Ise Jingu Shrine and the evergreen broadleaf forest behind it, as well as a stretch of countless small inlets and capes along the rias coast.

All Roads Lead to Ise: Following the Path of the Ise Pilgrimage, Edo Japan’s Foremost Prayer Route image

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Last Updated: September 17, 2024

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Bali Best Travel Guide
Bali is unique, Bali is unmatched. There is no other place like Bali. A magical blend of a colourful culture, friendly people, stunning nature, countless activities, tropical weather, culinary delights, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful accommodation. Bali is rated regularly as one of the best travel destinations in the world - for very good ...
13 things to know before going to Bali
Lighten the load on your wallet by purchasing your repellent in Bali and opting for bug sprays made in Asia. Popular (and much cheaper) Asian brands you'll find throughout Indonesia include Soffell (snap up the surprisingly pleasant floral-scented version if you can). 5. Avoid traveling during peak times.
Bali travel
Jimbaran Fish Market. Bukit Peninsula. A popular morning stop on a Bukit peninsula amble, this fish market is smelly, lively and frenetic - watch where you step. Brightly painted boats bob…. View more attractions.
Bali: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)
Bali, Indonesia. Bali packs a lot into one small island— from breathtaking waterfalls like Sekumpul in the north to the white sand beaches of Nyang Nyang in the south. Whatever you're seeking, you'll probably find: surf-able waves in Batu Bolong, all-night clubs in Seminyak, luxury clifftop hotels in Nusa Dua, and spiritual refuges all ...
Visiting Bali Soon? Read this First
As Bali is located 8 degrees south of the equator, you will find the climate to be the typical tropical, warm and humid all year round with two main distinctive seasons: Dry Season and Rainy Season. Some of the areas around Bali's central mountains (volcanoes) have several peaks over 3,000 meters above sea levels.
55 Best Things to Do in Bali (Indonesia)
Here are the 55 best things to do in Bali …. 1. Go surfing in Kuta. Source: flickr. Kuta Beach. If you haven't surfed before or are just looking for some gentle waves then you have to come to the most famous beach in Bali which is Kuta Beach.
Travel Guide: Bali
Plane: Because Bali is an island, the practical to get there is by plane. Visitors will fly into its one international airport, Denpasar-Ngurah Rai International Airport, which services flights ...
The best of Bali: top ways to find your own piece of paradise
Mason Adventures is one of the most reputable rafting companies and runs the longest rafting trips along the Ayung Valley, clocking in at 12km (7.5mi). You can combine an Ayung Valley rafting trip with a 30km (18.5mi) mountain bike tour that runs almost entirely downhill. Rafting Bali's jungle rivers offers a taste of wilderness close to Ubud ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Bali (2024)
See ways to experience (47) 2024. 2. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. 35,481. Nature & Wildlife Areas. Admission tickets from AU$28. Interact with long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat in the peaceful ambience of Bali's lush forests. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is home to over 1,200 monkeys.
17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Bali
Find the best things to do, and some of the island's hidden gems, with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Bali. See also: Where to Stay in Bali. On This Page: Pura Tanah Lot. Mount Batur. Uluwatu Temple. Ubud Monkey Forest. Ubud Art & Culture. Tegallalang and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces in Bali.
19 Best Things to Do in Bali
Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall. Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall, a recently opened Northern Bali attraction, is a little hard to get to. You'll need to drive at least 90 minutes from Ubud and take a ...
Bali Travel Guide
Bali can either be the best time of your life (which it probably will be) or it can tuen also into a nightmare. It all comes down to being a bit prepared and to understand different destinations, culture, transportation options, as well as respecting a few basic rules. Spend some time on reading our travel guide; it will help you have a great ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Bali (2024)
2. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. 35,481. Nature & Wildlife Areas. Admission tickets from $18. Interact with long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat in the peaceful ambience of Bali's lush forests. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is home to over 1,200 monkeys. As you walk alongside….
Ultimate Bali Travel Guide for First Timers
Renting a scooter allows you to travel freely around the region — it's a super affordable and economical option. A scooter will run you about 50,000 IDR ($4 USD) per day and about 20,000 IDR ($2 USD) to fill up the tank. If you plan to stick around for a while, a scooter rental for an entire month is only $60 USD.
Bali
Tourism information, ☏ 166 (from a landline in Bali only), +62 361 166 (mobile). Bali Tourism Board, Jl Raya Puputan No. 41, Denpasar, ☏ +62 361 235 600, fax: +62 361 239200. Some major destinations in Bali have their own tourism offices; contact details are given in the relevant destination articles.
Bali Travel Guide and Tips: How to Plan the Perfect Bali Itinerary
Bali visa information: Check that you have the necessary documentation. Safety in Bali: Vaccines, malaria tablets and travel insurance. In addition, at the end of this article, we'll give you other Bali Travel Tips: Internet access, restaurants, driving in Bali, and more. Bali travel guide (Indonesia) -Essential Bali travel tips
Bali's one-stop trusted information source
Published 08 01 2024 Updated 14 08 2024 Views 206984 Category Entry & Exit Requirements. Bali introduces IDR150,000 tourism levy from February 14, 2024. In an effort to safeguard Bali's rich customs, traditions, arts, and local wisdom, the Bali Provincial government has introduced the International Tourism Levy.
Bali Travel Guide
Best Months to Visit. The best time to visit Bali is between April and October, during the dry season, when you can expect warm, sunny days and low humidity. The offseason (from November to March ...
Bali Travel Regulations Update
The new tourist tax is effective since 14th February 2024 (Tourist Levy for INTERNATIONAL visitors) The Fee is IDR 150,000 per person (ca. USD 10 and AUD 15) The tourist tax (levy) is a local tax that the Bali administration government implemented. It is only related to Bali and not to Indonesia
THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Bali (UPDATED 2024)
2024. 2. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. 35,482. Nature & Wildlife Areas. Admission tickets from ₹1,513. Interact with long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat in the peaceful ambience of Bali's lush forests. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is home to over 1,200 monkeys. As you walk alongside….
How to plan a trip to Bali, Indonesia
Plan your trip. The shortest travel time from the UK to Bali is with Emirates via Dubai at just over 17 hours, while Garuda Indonesia clocks in at just over 18 hours with a stopover in Jakarta ...
Unveiling Bali: A Comprehensive Breakdown of Travel Costs
Traveling to Bali on a budget is entirely possible with some smart planning. Here are some tips to help you save money: Book Flights Early: Take advantage of early bird discounts and promo deals. Off-Season Travel: Visit during the off-peak season to enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds. Stay in Hostels: Opt for budget-friendly hostels or homestays.