Bali is not just a vacation spot. It has natural beauty, delicious local cuisine, and a strong culture. Visiting this incredible place once won’t be enough, Bali will always call you back.
Bali has plenty of natural tourist sites, such as beaches, waterfalls, and a beautiful underwater world. The culture is one of a kind and can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Surround yourself with mystical temples, and thick jungles, and spend your days surfing and exploring. Whether you’re a digital nomad spending time in Canggu, a surfer in Uluwatu, or a couple on their honeymoon, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with Bali.
You can easily spend weeks or months exploring Bali and still have things to do left. The island has so much to offer you’ll find yourself wanting to come back over and over again.
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Visit Uluwatu Temple and experience the Kecak Dance
Uluwatu Temple in Bali is a popular spot known for its stunning cliffside views and cultural significance. When you visit, make sure to stay for the Kecak Fire Dance, a traditional Balinese performance.
This dance is unique because it uses human voices instead of instruments for music. It’s held in the evening, so you can watch it with a beautiful sunset in the background. Tickets are available on arrival but sell out frequently, so make sure to come early.
Remember to dress respectfully, as Uluwatu Temple is a religious site. The dance and the temple visit together make for an unforgettable experience, combining both the natural beauty of Bali and its rich cultural heritage.
Since traffic around Uluwatu can be quite busy, you should stay in the area to make getting home in the evening easier.
Explore Ubud’s Artistic and Spiritual side
Diving into the heart of Balinese culture in Ubud is one of the best things to do in Bali, where art galleries, traditional markets, and vibrant performances await. You can try spiritual experiences with a traditional healer like Julia Roberts does in “Eat, Pray, Love” in Mengening Water Temple.
Ubud is captivating not only for its spiritual influence but also for its natural attractions. If you have an adventurous side, consider embarking on a river tubing adventure or exploring famous waterfalls like Tegenungan. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Monkey Forest and experience the scenic Campuhan Ridge Walk early in the morning when the sun rises over the rice fields.
In the heart of Ubud, you’ll find Puri Saren Agung Ubud, the residence of the royal family. Surrounding it are numerous restaurants and Balinese eateries where you can savor local cuisine for lunch. Take the opportunity to tour the king’s residence and enjoy traditional performances that are often held here in the evening.
Hike Mount Batur at Sunrise
Discover the beauty of Mount Batur in Bali by joining a sunrise hike, an amazing adventure for nature lovers. The cost is usually around IDR 200k per person, making it affordable for everyone.
The trek starts between 3 and 4 AM, allowing you to catch the sunrise in all its glory. The hike to the top takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on how fit you are. Remember, it’s important to have a local guide with you since solo hikes aren’t allowed for safety reasons.
Pick a sunny day for the best experience, as cloudy days may hide the sunrise. It can get a bit chilly at the top, so bring along some long clothing to stay warm. Get ready to enjoy the natural beauty of Bali as you conquer Mount Batur and soak in the stunning sunrise views.
Discover Tanah Lot Temple
Explore the cultural charm of Tanah Lot Temple in Bali, a must-visit destination for a rich cultural experience. The entrance fee is IDR 75,000 per person, which provides access to the captivating temple set against the backdrop of the sea. For an added adventure, consider a visit to the Snake Cave, which can be done if you give a donation. The cave is home to a unique species of snake, which is not poisonous and can even be touched by tourists.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you browse through the numerous souvenir shops at Tanah Lot Temple, offering a variety of local crafts and trinkets. The tropical sun can be intense, so take a moment to cool down and enjoy the surroundings with a refreshing drink at one of the cafes overlooking the temple.
As the waves crash against the shore, the silhouette of Tanah Lot against the setting sun is a magical sight, making it a must-see destination for those seeking the perfect blend of cultural marvel and breathtaking sunset views.
Snorkel in Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida
If you’re looking for the ultimate snorkeling experience in Bali, you’re going to love Crystal Bay. Located on the island of Nusa Penida, you can get here in under 40 minutes by speed boat from Sanur.
Crystal Bay is named for its clear blue waters, making it a great spot for marine enthusiasts. Put on your snorkel gear and discover a world of vibrant coral reefs and colorful tropical fish swimming around.
The water is so clear that you can see the ocean floor, and if you’re lucky, you might spot manta rays or dolphins, which frequently visit this area. Crystal Bay is perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, offering a peaceful setting and a chance to see diverse marine life. Whether you’re near the surface or diving a bit deeper, Crystal Bay promises an exciting experience for everyone.
Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces
When visiting Bali, a must-see attraction is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, renowned for their stunning beauty and traditional agricultural methods. Upon arrival, visitors are required to pay a small entrance fee, which contributes to the maintenance of this spectacular site.
You can explore the terraces via a small hiking trail that leads you through rice farms and along small rivers, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene and picturesque landscape. However, it’s worth noting that the area can become quite crowded with tourists, particularly later on in the day.
To experience the terraces at their most peaceful, it’s best to arrive early in the morning.
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are famous for their Bali swings, providing an unforgettable photo opportunity against the backdrop of the lush, terraced hillsides. This spot is a must-visit for those looking to capture the essence of Bali’s natural beauty.
Visit Gembleng Waterfall
Gembleng Waterfall in the Sidemen area of Bali is a tranquil spot, perfect for those looking to enjoy nature away from crowded tourist areas. The journey there involves a scenic walk, allowing you to take in the lush landscape.
The waterfall itself is beautiful and very peaceful, without large tourist crowds. Conveniently, there is a small restaurant nearby where you can grab a bite to eat and refresh yourself after your walk.
It’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, although you can also purchase refreshments at the restaurant. This less-known waterfall is ideal for travelers seeking a quiet and authentic experience in Bali.
Surf in Kuta
Start from an exciting surfing adventure in Kuta, a hotspot for Bali’s surfers, where the breaks are easy enough for beginners to conquer but still exciting for more advanced surfers.
Whether you’re a beginner learning to surf for the first time or an experienced surfer looking for the thrill of challenging waves, Kuta will provide the surfing experience against the backdrop of Bali’s stunning coastal scenery.
Plus, there are plenty of affordable beach bars located nearby, where you can grab a cold drink after you’re done.
Relax at one of Bali’s best beach clubs
In Bali, beach clubs such as Finns, La Brisa, Sundays, Savaya, and Cafe Del Mar are must-visit destinations for a perfect day by the sea. Each club boasts its own unique vibe, offering stunning ocean views, comfortable lounging areas, and direct beach access.
You can spend your day relaxing under the sun, taking a dip in the inviting pools, and enjoying a variety of food and drinks, with options ranging from local flavors to international cuisine.
As the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts, with most beach clubs hosting lively music sessions or DJs, and some even have full-on beach parties. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure a spot in these popular venues.
Dive at USS Liberty Shipwreck in Amed
Diving at the USS Liberty Shipwreck in Bali is a great adventure for all divers and one of the most exciting things you can do in Bali. Located near Amed, this World War II shipwreck is close to the shore and easy to reach.
The wreck starts at 5 meters deep and goes down to 30 meters. It’s full of marine life, perfect for underwater photos. The water is usually clear, making it good for diving most of the year.
Amed has a fantastic selection of dive schools and getting PADI licensed here is very affordable, so it’s highly recommended.
Visit Goa Gajah, Bali’s Elephant Cave
Goa Gajah, or the Elephant Cave, is a historic site in Bali that is perfect for taking pictures and spending time in nature. It’s located near Ubud and is known for its impressive rock carvings, particularly the intricate facade of the cave entrance.
The site dates back to the 9th century and holds significant archaeological, historical, and artistic value. Inside, you’ll find a meditation space and several Hindu and Buddhist relics.
The surrounding area is lush and serene, with gardens and a pond adding to the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a relatively small site, so a visit here doesn’t take too much time. There’s an entrance fee, and a modest dress is required, as Goa Gajah is a religious site.
Attend a Balinese Cooking Class
A Balinese cooking class is a fun way to learn about local culture and food. You’ll start with a trip to a market to shop for fresh ingredients and prepare your recipes. Then, in a traditional kitchen, you’ll cook Balinese dishes with a local chef’s help.
You might make dishes like Nasi Goreng, Gado Gado, or Satay. The class is good for all cooking levels and even suitable for vegetarians or vegans. After cooking, you get to eat what you made with new friends.
This guest post is contributed by Victoria a travel blogger and Indonesia travel expert from Germany her blog www.guideyourtravel.com
There are 6 comments
Very comprehensive and a good set of tips
Bali is such a beautiful destination! I love the Elephant cave description and picture above. Hope to visit it one day!
If I ever go to Bali, I’ll follow a few points from your list. I didn’t know Bali was so interesting.
Excellent post! Love the images. Such a beautiful place!
This is awesome, never been to bali but it is cool and on my list to visit with my partner.
The photos you used in this article are absolutely breathtaking!