Things to do in Bali

Bali is undoubtedly one of the best tropical vacation spots in the world. An adventurer’s paradise and spiritual sanctuary rolled into one, Bali is an attractive destination for retirees and families, as well as for young hedonists and digital nomads. And despite certain destinations being almost tourist spots, when you venture beyond the ordinary, you’ll likely find that Bali lives up to its well-deserved reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful islands.

So, what are the top things to do in Bali? To help you, I’ve compiled everything that caught my eye into the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Bali. With enough activities to inspire the tireless adrenaline junkie or the most demanding culture buff, this locally curated list will turn your visit to the Island into an incredible escape!

Explore Bali’s Natural Wonders

Climb Mount Batur for Sunrise

This is the most popular thing for both domestic and foreign tourists to do. Why, you might ask? Well, because everyone is eager to see Bali from a different point of view: high up. Being the least difficult mountain to climb compared to others in Bali (at 1,717 metres above sea level) makes this possible. And take my word for it – the view from the top of Mount Batur is well worth your early morning hike! As the sun rises, it illuminates the surrounding volcanoes, such as Mount Abang, Agung and Rinjani. The volcanic lake shimmers below, and you’ll also get panoramic views of the surrounding towns and villages.

Discover the Nusa Islands

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is a very well-known island among tourists, especially divers and snorkellers, for its beautiful underwater world. If you’re lucky, you can swim with majestic Manta Rays, sea turtles, and even sunfish (mola-mola)!

Nusa Lembongan

With crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches, Nusa Lembongan is Bali’s second most famous island. It’s smaller in terms of size than Nusa Penida, but no less beautiful! It can provide a solution if you don’t really want to be in the crowds of Nusa Penida.

Nusa Ceningan

Nusa Ceningan is a small island between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. It can be accessed via the iconic yellow bridge from Nusa Lembongan (likely you’ve seen its image!). Most people visit this island for day trips while staying on Nusa Lembongan but, if you’re looking for a quiet retreat on the cheap, then this is the place to go – and they have plenty of secret beaches too!

Explore Bali’s Best Waterfalls

As an island with a lot of natural treasures, Bali has countless waterfalls. From the famous to the hidden, they are all gems of beauty in their own right! These are three of the many beautiful ones:

Sekumpul Waterfall

Located in a quiet valley in Singaraja, the northern part of Bali, Sekumpul Waterfall offers a breathtaking view of seven waterfalls surrounded by lush jungle with a serene atmosphere. The water flows from 80 metres above at high speed, hitting the rocks below with such force that the surrounding area is covered in a thick mist like rain.

Tegenungan Waterfall

You can find Tegenungan Waterfall at Jalan Raya Tegenungan, Kemenuh, Sukawati, and Gianyar Regency. Unlike some of the more remote waterfalls in Bali, Tegenungan is easily accessible and well-connected. It is perfect for a day trip or a short getaway from the hustle and bustle of Ubud. But given that the water rushes down in large volumes, it’s best not to swim too deep to avoid being swept away.

Gitgit Waterfall

Gitgit Waterfall is located in a highland area at a height of about 35 metres. It is surrounded by tropical trees and emits a continuous flow of water throughout the year. This two-drop waterfall sits in a picturesque canyon and cascades into a small picturesque pool, making it one of the most dramatic waterfalls on the island.

Visit Bali’s UNESCO Rice Terraces

The rice fields in Bali are truly among nature’s amazing and mesmerising treasures. The beautiful green scenery will steal your heart and, no matter how many you’ve seen, there’s no such thing as a rice paddy overdose – and here are the most beautiful rice fields in Bali.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

This one is quite famous among tourists due to its location near the cultural town of Ubud. Showcasing vast and stunning rice fields that will take your breath away, it can also be easy to get overwhelmed by tourists. So, if you want to capture a more peaceful picture, go early in the morning.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Measuring 632 hectares, this is the largest rice field with terraces, showcasing a unique and breathtaking natural landscape. The best time to visit is before the harvest, between February and April. You’ll see tall, yellowish-green rice paddies all over the area.

Sidemen Rice Terraces

Sidemen Valley is one of Bali’s hidden gems, with Mount Agung towering above. Located in the eastern part of Bali, this location is especially recommended if you plan to also visit Besakih Temple nearby.

Watch Dolphins in Lovina

Okay, this one is hands down my favourite activity! And I’m sure you will think so too. This tour is easily available on Google with various prices, but you have to be good at negotiating because the costs vary.

The tour will start at dawn, where small boats will take you to the middle of the sea and… voilà! You’ll see dolphins jumping out of the sea in packs right before your eyes. You can also swim among them if you’d like to. This tour happens every day unless the weather is bad – to find out, you should actively ask your guide the night before your trip.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Go White Water Rafting on the Ayung River

If you’re in Ubud and need a slight adrenaline boost, I highly recommend trying out rafting on the Ayung River. For those of you who are beginners, don’t be afraid because the water is not as rough as Telaga Waja in Karangasem; the water here is quite calm but just right to give you the adrenaline rush you need. Along the way, you’ll also be treated to views of the surrounding green forests – what a cool way to enjoy the lush green scenery!

Ride ATVs Through the Jungle

If you’re not afraid of getting dirty and into something fun, put this on your list too! The instructor will conduct a safety briefing before riding through rice fields, plantations, bamboo forests, jungles, rivers, villages and scenic panoramas. If you bring a group of friends, racing will be a lot of fun.

Trekking and Hiking in Bali’s Mountains

Seeing the beauty of Bali from a height will give you a whole different experience from ordinary tourists. If you regularly hit the gym, this shouldn’t be a big challenge for you. Especially since Bali also has some mountains that are easy to conquer – Mount Batur, for example, is only about 1,717m high, with a 2–3 hour trek to the summit.

Try Water Sports at Tanjung Benoa

Okay, this one you must be familiar with. Tanjung Benoa is a thriving centre for water sports and you can choose whether you are into Jetski, Banana Boat, Parasailing, Flying Fish, or even all of them? Absolutely! You can choose the water sports packages provided. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on your skin before you get baked to a crispy crust.

Take a Ride on a Bali Swing

Keen to witness incredible scenery while bracing yourself? This is your chance. Bali swings are becoming popular among tourists, all scrambling to click a beautiful photo swinging at a high altitude with a background of rice fields or lush jungle. You might also wish to rent a long-tailed dress provided in bright colours to make your photos even more fabulous!

Experience the Thrills of Canyon Tubing

If you love white water rafting and want to take your enjoyment to the next level then Canyon Tubing will be a great choice. The adrenaline will be ramped up with this activity as you can explore the Balinese jungle at the same time as descending a crystal-clear stream within a hidden canyon, all from your own inflatable tube.

Bali’s Best Temples and Cultural Experiences

Visit Bali’s Iconic Temples

Known as the ‘Island of the Gods’, Bali is famous for a deep-rooted spirituality that runs deep into every aspect of the local people’s lives. Truth be told, no trip to Bali is complete without visiting a temple or two. These spiritual sites, each with its own unique history and purpose, offer a glimpse into Bali’s vibrant culture and religious practices.

Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot is a unique temple and is a stunning place to visit at sunset. At low tide, you can walk into the temple and receive a blessing for a small donation. However, note that you cannot go inside as a tourist, as the site is sacred for prayers. The temple became increasingly popular after Julia Roberts’ iconic movie, Eat Pray Love, featured the temple.

Ulun Danu Beratan (Floating Temple)

Ulun Danu Beratan is an iconic Balinese water temple on the shores of Lake Beratan in Bedugul, North Bali. People refer to it as ‘the floating temple’ because the structure looks like it floats on the Beratan Lake surface.

Pura Lempuyang (Gates of Heaven)

Pura Lempuyang is an iconic temple complex with stunning views of Mount Agung. Even if you’ve never heard of this temple, I’m sure you’ll probably recognise its main gate, a famous photo spot known as ‘Heaven’s Gate’. Facts: This temple is one of the most overcrowded tourist destinations on the island, where you might need more than 3–4 hours to take a shot at the gates.

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Goa Gajah, popularly known as Elephant Cave, is a 1,000-year-old temple and archaeological site located south of the centre of Ubud. The temple is famous for its unusual man-made cave with many intricate creature carvings around the perimeter – proof that Balinese handicrafts are exceptional.

Besakih Temple (Mother Temple)

Located on the slopes of the majestic Mount Agung, Besakih Temple is the largest and holiest temple in Bali. You could say that this is like a mecca for Hindus, as all Hindus in Bali will wish to come and pray in this temple.

Watch a Traditional Kecak Dance

The dance is believed to have its roots in ancient Balinese Sanghyang rituals, which were used to ward off evil spirits or perform exorcisms. The name Kecak is taken from the cry of ‘Cak’ that they shout during the performance. The performance, however, is not accompanied by Gamelan instruments, but only by the singing voices of the dancers, who wear a variety of traditional Balinese costumes.

Participate in a Balinese Purification Ritual (Melukat)

If you want to experience the spirituality of Bali, Melukat is the way to go. Melukat is one of the magical rituals in Bali that uses water as a cleanser. The purpose is to cleanse the body and mind, refresh the soul and remove negative influences. In a nutshell, Balinese people do this to purify the mind, body and soul.

Relaxation and Wellness

Pamper Yourself at Bali’s Top Spas

Travelling around on a scooter and exploring Bali can be tiring at times. What you want for relaxation is a gentle massage, with soothing music in the background as you close your eyes and let your tense muscles relax. Bali has dozens or even hundreds of spa centres scattered around to serve as your destination when you’re tired – from the most luxurious to the most on-budget, you’ll easily spot them.

Take a Yoga Class in Ubud

Among all the towns in Bali, Ubud is known as a place for those who seek tranquility, rejuvenation, and wellness centres. With its location surrounded by beautiful landscapes – rice fields, forests, and rivers – Ubud is a popular place to pursue yoga and other wellness activities. In addition, the wellness centres in Ubud also outnumber those in other areas of Bali so, if you go to Ubud without taking even one yoga class, you’re arguably not experiencing Ubud to the fullest.

Enjoy Bali’s Natural Hot Springs

Yep! You read it right. Bali has many natural hot springs because this island is dotted with volcanoes. Kintamani and Tabanan are where they are located mostly. So, if you want to enjoy the hot springs, you can choose to visit these two towns, especially during the rainy season.

Take a Sunset Cruise

If you’re on a romantic vacation with your partner you should definitely give this a try. Sailing the seas of Bali while enjoying a meal accompanied by the sunset might be the sweetest way to end the day. There are many companies you can contact to book this, for example, Pirate Dinner Cruise and Bali Hai Cruises.

Beaches and Beach Clubs

Relax on Bali’s Best Beaches

I’m quite sure you’ll figure this out without me even mentioning it – I mean, it’s Bali, come on. With so many beautiful beaches surrounding the island, lounging on the beach is a must. Let’s take a look at some of the best!

Uluwatu Beach

A paradise for surfers, Uluwatu has waves that are challenging enough for the world’s best. Its clear blue water and clean white sands have made Uluwatu famous among tourists. Oh and the sunset here is magical!

Balangan Beach

A white sandy beach stretching 200 metres with a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean, Balangan is another place for surfers to conquer the waves. But if you’re not into surfing, you can easily enjoy your day sunbathing and swimming – and, of course, sipping on fresh young coconuts.

Sanur Beach

The clear waters, calm waves, and fine white sands are the main attractions. Sanur is an area known as a family destination – and not without reason. Its beautiful beaches, lined with luxury hotels, spas and cafés, are all here for you to enjoy without having to venture miles away.

Kuta Beach

Kuta is the most crowded beach in Bali. Its location in the centre of the crowd makes this beach a bustling place to hang out. The waves are quite wavy but not high, so suitable for those of you who are just learning to surf.

Visit Bali’s Top Beach Clubs

Delicious cocktails, sparkling infinity pools, DJs spinning by the beach – Bali is home to the best beach clubs in the world. So we can agree that beach clubs are something you shouldn’t miss while you’re here. Let’s talk about which ones are worth visiting.

FINNS Beach Club

This is Canggu’s iconic beach club. I’m sure it’s on every list of best beach club articles you’ve read. Set amongst white sandy beaches, luxury hotels and coconut trees, Finns’ building is mainly made of bamboo, giving it a traditional feel but with a more modern concept.

Sundays Beach Club

The beautiful white sandy beach is equipped with bean bags and sun loungers where you can spend the day relaxing, eating, swimming and sunbathing. But take note of one thing: they don’t have a swimming pool. Even so, who needs a swimming pool when you have the beautiful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean right in front of you? But hey, who needs a pool when you have the beautiful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean straight in front of you?

Potato Head Beach Club

This one is a legend! With a Balinese-inspired aesthetic and an array of delicious food and cocktails, Potato Head Beach Club has always been a top choice for beachgoers in Bali. Lounge on the daybeds, swim in the infinity pools, soak up the sunset while listening to the music swirl – Potato Head is your go-to for unwinding.

Unique Dining Experiences

Enjoy a Gourmet Sunday Brunch

Don’t have any definite plans for your Sunday? Why not indulge in a gourmet Sunday brunch instead? Whether you’re looking to lounge around with friends or have a lavish feast at a five-star resort, there are plenty of Sunday brunch options to choose from.

Dine on Seafood at Jimbaran Bay

Enjoying seafood straight from the source, with the sea breeze blowing, a beautiful sunset, the sound of the waves crashing and candles burning. Sounds like the most epic dinner? Well, this is exactly what you can get if you decide to try the dining experience at Jimbaran Bay. There are restaurants you can choose from based on your tastes and budget, so don’t be shy to explore!

Eat in an Abandoned Airplane at Keramas Aero Park

Located on the side of the main highway, you can easily locate this iconic spot if you’re heading to Karangasem from Denpasar. When entering Aero Park, Bali, visitors will experience a special dining experience in a Boeing 737-400 airplane converted into a unique dining venue with a selection of varied menu packages. Fasten your seatbelts, they’re ready to take off with a delicious meal!

Take a Balinese Cooking Class

It would be pretty awesome if you could cook some Balinese delicacy and have your friends enjoy it, don’t you think? With plenty of cooking classes available all around Bali (you can even find them at your hotel), pursuing this activity won’t take much effort, so why not?

Island Hopping and Day Trips

Visit the Gili Islands

Gili islands are located in Lombok, which is only 45 minutes by fast ferry from the west Bali port of Gilimanuk – or, if you’re more flexible with your travel, you can also take a bigger ferry that can carry your rented motorbike as well, getting you there in five hours. Some Gili islands have been placed in the spotlight for their beauty and uniqueness – and the three below are the most popular for many reasons. Let’s find out why.

Gili Trawangan

If you like to party, this island is for you. Gili Trawangan is the most partying island of the three, making it the most crowded. But there is one thing to consider: there are no taxis, mopeds, etc., to take you around, but you can rent a horse-drawn carriage or maybe a bicycle to get around more freely.

Gili Meno

Everyone says that this is the quietest of the islands – and it’s true. It’s very quiet, a little eerie at night but the perfect place for being in love. Here, like all the Gili Islands, there are no bicycles or taxis. I’d personally opt for walking anyway because the island is so small (the smallest of the three). And besides, I wanted to burn a few calories after eating too much grilled fish, LOL.

Gili Air

Okay, now Gili Air. For me, this is a combination of both. It’s still quieter than Gili Trawangan, but louder than Gili Meno. So this might be an option when you still want to enjoy the crowds and find peace at the same time.

Discover Menjangan Island and its Wildlife

Located in the West Bali National Park, Menjangan is known for its unique natural beauty. The beaches are stunning, the surroundings are lush and – the best part – you can even see deer roaming around. Menjangan is also famous for its diving and snorkelling sites due to its serene underwater with colourful corals.

Shopping and Local Markets

A trip to Bali wouldn’t be complete without some souvenirs – at least that’s my opinion. I mean, you’ll love coming home and seeing that Balinese painting in your living room, or hanging that seashell dreamcatcher in your bedroom, bringing back memories of good times spent on this beautiful island. Now, if you agree with me, let me take you to three well-known art markets in Bali to pick up your souvenirs.

Explore Ubud Art Market

If you’re in the Ubud area, you’ll often pass by the art market located in the centre. In my personal experience, the prices of souvenirs here are slightly more expensive compared to Sukawati in Gianyar, or Kumbasari in Denpasar. This is only natural considering its location in the centre of tourism, but the selection is so diverse here. You’ll find something you like, that’s for sure.

Shop at Love Anchor Canggu Fashion Marketplace

Love Anchor is one of the most popular markets in Canggu. With its distance of only 1 kilometre from the beach, this market is always crowded with tourists. Here you will find plenty of clothing, accessories and homeware. Don’t forget to hone your negotiation skills, however, as you might need them.

Visit Sukawati Art Market for Souvenirs

Sukawati is the centre of all souvenir shops in Bali. If you’re okay with driving a little further out of town, you’ll be happy to see thousands of items that cost a little less than the traditional markets you visit.

Off the Beaten Path

Explore Bali’s Abandoned Airplanes

If one day you find yourself bored and looking for some new things to do while in Bali, I’d suggest checking out some abandoned airplanes just for fun. I mean, why not?

There is even an abandoned airplane right in the middle of the city, or you can go on an exploration. Here are the options:

• The Abandoned Boeing 737 of South Kuta
• The Abandoned Boeing 737 on the Bukit Peninsula
• The Abandoned Boeing 737 in West Bali

Visit Lesser-Known Beaches

Despite there being so many beaches in Bali, finding the hidden ones is not difficult. You can google all the information about hidden beaches, of course, and be led to the Tabanan area, or Pecatu. For me, the really quiet and hidden beaches are found in these two areas. My personal favourite: Soan Galuh Beach. Thank me later.

Discover the Hidden Waterfalls in Northern Bali

If you dare to risk descending into the bushes and even the jungle in a deserted area, trust me, you can find a beautiful hidden waterfall! Especially in North Bali, where waterfalls seem to flock together. Take, for example, Sambangan Waterfall with its natural turquoise pool, or Sekumpul with its collection of seven waterfalls cascading down the same rock.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Bali

From the relaxing and tranquil to the challenging and adventurous, Bali has it all for you! This is a big reason why Bali remains a top tourist destination for both local and international tourists – whatever your taste in leisure and whoever you’re travelling with, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get the most out of your vacation with Bali’s endless things to do. So pack your bag and grab a coconut or two. Let’s plan that perfect Bali vacation you’ve been dreaming of. Happy holiday!