Things to do in Bali

More about Bali

Bali is a tropical paradise located in Indonesia, renowned for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant lifestyle. This unique island destination offers a mix of natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and modern amenities, making it a top choice for travelers from around the globe. 

Lies between Java to the west and Lombok to the east, the island is famous for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush tropical forests and towering volcanoes to serene beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Bali's cultural landscape is equally captivating, with many Hindu temples, traditional ceremonies, and artistic traditions that are deeply woven into daily life. There are always the best things to do in Bali for you, a solo traveler or full-packed with beloved family!

Best Things to Do in Bali

Bali, the enchanting island of Indonesia, is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. From ancient temples to pristine beaches and thrilling adventures, there is something for every traveler. Here are some of the best things to do in Bali that will make your visit truly memorable.

Day Tour to Lempuyang Temple and Virgin Beach

Embark on a journey to the eastern part of Bali, where you can explore the majestic Lempuyang Temple and relax at the serene Virgin Beach.

Lempuyang Temple: Known for its iconic “Gates of Heaven,” Lempuyang Temple offers breathtaking views of Mount Agung. The temple complex is one of the oldest and most sacred in Bali, and the panoramic vistas make it a photographer’s dream.

Virgin Beach: After exploring the temple, unwind at Virgin Beach, also known as Pasir Putih. This hidden gem boasts soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging under the sun.

Try Out an ATV Ride in Gianyar

For adrenaline junkies, an ATV ride through the lush landscapes of Gianyar is a must-do. Navigate through rice paddies, rivers, and traditional villages on a powerful ATV. This thrilling adventure provides a unique perspective on Bali’s natural beauty and rural life.

Unique Highlights:

• Experience the thrill of off-road driving.
• Discover hidden paths and scenic spots.
• Suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.

Indulge in Spa Massages

No trip to Bali is complete without indulging in a relaxing spa treatment. The island is renowned for its luxurious spas and traditional Balinese massages that rejuvenate the mind and body.

Top Spa Recommendations:

• Glow Spa by Bali Mandira: Offers a range of treatments in a serene setting.
• Sundari Day Spa: Known for its holistic approach and organic products.
• Sancto Spa & Wellness: Choose from a variety of treatments including body massage, hot stones treatment, and many more

Watch Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple

Immerse yourself in Balinese culture by watching the mesmerizing Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple. This traditional dance, performed by a choir of men chanting “cak,” depicts the epic story of Ramayana against the backdrop of a stunning sunset.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It:

• The performance takes place on a cliffside amphitheater with panoramic ocean views.
• The dramatic sunset enhances the mystical atmosphere of the dance.
• It offers a deep insight into Balinese mythology and art.

Explore Nusa Penida

Take a day trip to Nusa Penida, an island off the southeastern coast of Bali, known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. To make the best of your visit, you can book a full-day tour to Nusa Penida in Traveloka.

Top Attractions:

• Kelingking Beach: Famous for its T-Rex shaped cliff and turquoise waters.
• Angel’s Billabong: A natural infinity pool with breathtaking views.
• Crystal Bay: Ideal for snorkeling and diving, with a chance to see manta rays and colorful coral reefs.

Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud is a must-visit for nature and animal lovers. Home to hundreds of playful long-tailed macaques, this lush forest sanctuary also features ancient temples and statues.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It:

• Interact with the friendly and curious monkeys.
• Explore the ancient temples hidden within the forest.
• Enjoy the serene and mystical atmosphere of the sanctuary.

Dive and Snorkel in Amed

Amed, located on Bali’s northeastern coast, is a fantastic spot for diving and snorkeling. The area is known for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and the famous USAT Liberty shipwreck in nearby Tulamben.

Top Experiences:

• Explore the rich underwater world teeming with colorful fish and corals.
• Dive or snorkel around the USAT Liberty shipwreck.
• Enjoy the tranquil, laid-back vibe of the Amed coastal area.

Bali Transportations 

Navigating Bali can be an adventure in itself, with various modes of transportation available to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a rundown of the most common ways to get around the island:

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services 

Taxis are readily available in most tourist areas, with Blue Bird Taxis being the most reputable. Ride-hailing services like Grab and Gojek are also popular, offering a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

Scooter and Motorcycle Rentals

Renting a scooter or motorcycle is a popular choice for those who want the freedom to explore at their own pace. Rentals are affordable, but it's essential to have an international driver’s license and experience riding a scooter.

Car Rentals

For families or groups, renting a car can be a comfortable way to travel. Cars can be rented with or without a driver, though navigating Bali's traffic can be challenging for those unfamiliar with local driving conditions. You can check out car rentals in Bali provided by Traveloka.

Public Transport 

Public transportation options are limited, there is Bus service that offer routes between popular tourist areas. These options are more economical but less flexible in terms of schedule and coverage.

Recommended Bali Food

Bali is not only a paradise for beach lovers and adventurers but also a haven for food enthusiasts. The island's cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that reflect its rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary influences. 

Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng, or Indonesian fried rice, is a staple dish that you’ll find almost everywhere in Bali. This savory rice dish is typically cooked with kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), garlic, shallots, and chili, then topped with a fried egg. It’s often served with shrimp, chicken, or a mix of vegetables, and garnished with pickles and crispy prawn crackers.

Where to Try It:

• Warung Nia in Seminyak
• Made’s Warung in Kuta
• Cafe Lotus in Ubud

Babi Guling

Babi Guling, or roasted suckling pig, is a Balinese specialty that is usually reserved for special occasions and ceremonies. The pig is marinated with a blend of traditional spices and herbs, then slow-roasted to perfection. The result is tender, flavorful meat with crispy skin, often served with rice, vegetables, and spicy sambal.

Where to Try It:

• Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka in Ubud
• Babi Guling Pak Malen in Seminyak
• Babi Guling Candra in Denpasar

Satay

Satay is a popular Indonesian dish consisting of skewered and grilled meat, typically served with a rich peanut sauce. In Bali, you can find a variety of satay, including chicken (satay ayam), pork (satay babi), and fish (satay lilit). Satay lilit is unique to Bali, made by wrapping minced fish around bamboo sticks and grilling it to a smoky perfection.

Where to Try It:

• Warung Men Weti in Sanur
• Sate Plecing Arjuna in Denpasar
• Warung Murah in Legian

Bebek Betutu

Bebek Betutu is a traditional Balinese dish featuring duck that has been marinated in a rich blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked until tender. The cooking process can take up to 12 hours, resulting in succulent meat infused with aromatic flavors.

Where to Try It:

• Bebek Tepi Sawah in Ubud
• Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner) in Ubud
• Bebek Joni in Gianyar

Lawar

Lawar is a traditional Balinese dish made from a mix of vegetables, grated coconut, and minced meat, typically pork or chicken, combined with rich spices and herbs. It’s often served as a side dish and comes in different variations, such as red lawar (using blood) and white lawar (without blood).

Where to Try It:

• Warung Wardani in Denpasar
• Warung Nyoman in Ubud
• Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku in Ubud

Nasi Campur

Nasi Campur, or mixed rice, is a versatile and popular dish that offers a little bit of everything. It typically includes white rice served with a variety of side dishes, such as meats, vegetables, peanuts, eggs, and sambal. Each serving of Nasi Campur can be a unique combination, making it a delightful surprise each time.

Where to Try It:

• Warung Teges in Ubud
• Warung Indonesia in Kuta
• Warung Wardani in Denpasar

Sate Lilit

Sate Lilit is a Balinese satay variant made from minced fish, chicken, or pork, mixed with grated coconut, lime leaves, and a blend of traditional spices. The mixture is then wrapped around bamboo sticks or lemongrass stalks and grilled to perfection. This dish is bursting with flavor and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Where to Try It:

• Warung Mak Beng in Sanur
• Bumbu Bali Restaurant in Nusa Dua
• Sate Plecing Arjuna in Denpasar

Shopping in Bali 

Ubud Art Market

Address: Jalan Raya Ubud No.35, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

The Ubud Art Market, locally known as Pasar Seni Ubud, is a bustling hub of local craftsmanship and artistry. It is a treasure trove of handmade goods, including intricate textiles, woven baskets, wooden carvings, and traditional Balinese art. Perfect for finding unique souvenirs and gifts, the market offers a glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage. Bargaining is expected, so be prepared to haggle for the best prices.

Seminyak Village

Address: Jalan Kayu Jati No.8, Seminyak, Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361

Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

For a more upscale shopping experience, head to Seminyak Village. This modern shopping complex is situated in the trendy area of Seminyak and features a mix of international and local brands. With a sleek, contemporary design, Seminyak Village offers a variety of fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, and lifestyle shops. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking high-quality, stylish items. 

Kuta Art Market

Address: Jalan Bakung Sari, Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Located just a stone’s throw from Kuta Beach, the Kuta Art Market is a vibrant open-air market offering a wide range of souvenirs and handicrafts. From colorful sarongs and T-shirts to handmade jewelry and beachwear, this market is a shopper’s paradise for affordable and unique finds. The market's lively atmosphere and friendly vendors make it a fun place to explore. 

Beachwalk Shopping Center

Address: Jalan Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361

Opening Hours: Daily, 10:30 AM - 10:30 PM

Beachwalk Shopping Center in Kuta is a premier shopping destination that combines the beauty of Bali’s coastline with modern retail therapy. This open-air mall is designed to blend seamlessly with its beachside location, featuring lush gardens and water features. With its beachfront views and diverse offerings, Beachwalk provides a relaxing yet stylish shopping experience.

Sukawati Art Market

Address: Jalan Raya Sukawati, Sukawati, Gianyar, Bali 80582

Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Sukawati Art Market, located in Gianyar, is one of Bali’s oldest and most famous art markets. Known for its wide selection of traditional Balinese arts and crafts, this market is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Shoppers can find paintings, sculptures, masks, and other handcrafted items that reflect the island's artistic heritage. The market is especially popular for its affordable prices, making it an excellent place to pick up unique decor and gifts.

Jalan Pantai Berawa

Address: Jalan Pantai Berawa, Canggu, North Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361

Opening Hours: Varies by shop, generally 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Jalan Pantai Berawa in Canggu is an emerging shopping district known for its trendy boutiques and hipster vibe. This area is perfect for those looking for unique fashion pieces, accessories, and home decor items that blend Balinese style with modern design. Many of the shops here focus on sustainability and local craftsmanship, offering eco-friendly and ethically made products. 

Best Time to Visit Bali 

Bali's tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but the best time to visit largely depends on your preferences for weather and activities.

Dry Season (April to October): This period is considered the best time to visit Bali, with warm, sunny days and lower humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities such as surfing, diving, hiking, and exploring the island's natural and cultural attractions. July and August are the peak tourist months, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Wet Season (November to March): The wet season brings higher humidity and frequent, though usually short, rain showers. Despite the rain, Bali remains beautiful and less crowded, making it a good time for those looking for a quieter experience. The rain can sometimes affect outdoor activities, but the island's lush landscapes during this period are particularly vibrant.

Shoulder Seasons (April-June and September-October): The months just before and after the peak tourist season are also great times to visit. The weather is still mostly dry, and the island is less crowded, offering a more relaxed and enjoyable experience