Top 10 Things To Do in Bali
Bali may have been overrun with tourists for many years, but it still is for many reasons. Not only are there many places to visit in Bali, but there are also activities you can indulge in.
Travelers here would not be bored and will find something to do that will suit them. Bali has a lot to offer, from just partying at the beach and drinking the night away to culture, arts, and history or from adventures to relaxing with spa and yoga.
With so many to choose from, here are some of the recommended things to do in Bali for you to start with:
Interact with locals
One of the best things about independent travel is that you have ample time to truly connect and interact with the locals. Eat at the local warung, chat with the owner, take local public transport and talk to people around you, ask for directions, ask for ideas, talk to the people you meet on the streets, and join in some fun stuff they are doing. With this, you can learn the Balinese way of life and how friendly and hospitable the people can be.

People of Bali. Photo by Robert Tannemaat
Climb Mount Batur at Kintamani
If the surfs have not broken your bones yet, you may want to try another adventure in Bali. Climb the famous Mount Batur, a volcanic mountain that rises over a lake that beautifully mirrors it. It is best to be conquered in the morning when hikers start their ascent as early as 4 am to reach in time to catch the sunrise at 6 am. It may be cold so remember to bring a jacket and always remember to be careful as it is an active volcano and some accidents have happened on this mountain before.
This is not a physically demanding hike; unlike its cousin, Mount Rinjani on nearby Lombok Island, which takes several days, Mount Batur, which stands at 1,700m, can be done in just a morning.

Hike Mount Batur, Bali. Photo by ValeriosVeo
Watch Kecak Dance in Puri Dalem Taman Kaja
Kecak dance is one of Bali’s traditional dances and musical dramas that is enchanting and a favorite among travelers. Kecak dance has 150 performers wearing check cloth around their waist chant the word “cak” while throwing up their arms in the depiction of the battle of Ramayana, with roots of the dance dating back to Sanghyang, a trance-like exorcism dance of the old. The best place to watch it is on the temple grounds of Puri Dalem Taman Kaja, where you will find an authentic atmosphere and setting.

Kecak Dance at Bali. Photo by Meru Muhammad
Explore Bali on two wheels
You can find many cycle tours in Bali now simply because it is a wonder to explore Bali this way. For those who instead go independent, you may rent a bicycle and explore to your heart’s content. Some places to explore are the surrounding villages and rice paddy fields, soaking in the arts and culture, and the hard-working locals.
Also, cycle to Monkey Forest to visit the crab-eating macaques and then head on to Goa Gajah, one of the holiest places in Bali. Then end your day in the village of Petulu, where you might catch a massive migration of Heron returning to their roost.

Rice Paddy Fields, Bali. Photo by rajkumar1220
White water Rafting on Ayung River at Sayan
Ayung River, right down inside the Ayung gorge, is very scenic for white water rafting. Imagine rafting through the heart of Bali, with you riding the wild rapids through rice paddies, people working the fields, and children playing. You will feel as if you are traveling in speed and style through a motion picture of the hidden parts of this paradise island. There are two well-established operators that you can find on the main road in Sayan, but other new operators have opened up in recent years.

Sunset Seafood dinner at Jimbaran Bay, Bali. Photo by Kevin Poh
Eat seafood in Jimbaran bay
You may walk down along the beach at Jimbaran Bay and find it dotted with warungs and candle-lit tables like mushrooms after the rain. Here you can dine on prawns, squids, and fishes fresh off the sea onto your table, almost literally. Couple it by feasting the sun setting over the horizon, making this authentic setting much more atmospheric. Unsurprisingly, as one of the popular areas for people to stay, Jimbaran hotels * are people’s favorites.

Snorkel and Diving at Bali. Photo by Ilse Reijs and Jan-Noud Hutten
Snorkel or dive the reefs of Bali
While Bali has so much to offer on land and beaches and mountains, do not forget the marvels of what’s under the sea. The sea is full of wild marine life, such as manta rays and turtles, surrounded by beautiful coral reefs. For the best snorkeling experience, take a boat out of the coastline to Lembongan Island, where the reefs surrounding it are spectacular. Here divers can also experience a 40 m drop-off into the wonders of the sea.
Join a festival like Bali Arts Festival
The Balinese know their art well, and they celebrate in style. Bali Arts Festival is an annual event held from June to July. This is a well-known event worldwide where travelers from all over the world travel to Bali to catch this festival of a whole month of daily cultural performances, handicraft exhibitions, and many more arts-related activities.

Opening Ceremony of Bali Arts Festival. Photo by Pandu Adnyana
Splurge and have a cocktail in Ayana Bar on Rocks
Ayana bar on rocks is known as the best bar in Bali, with a long line of people daily trying to get in and have a drink on this bar that is perched on a cliff overlooking the sea and waves crashing the rocks below. Get a cocktail here, which is surprisingly good, and drink your night away staring at the roaring sea that seems to stretch into infinity with white waves crashing in like a spectacular natural show.
If you stay at Ayana Resorts and Spa * you can skip the queue and enjoy every evening!

Bar on rocks at Ayana, Bali. Photo by Jeda Villa Bali
Learn to surf on Kuta Beach
If there is one place on earth you want to learn to surf, Bali may be one of the good choices. Kuta beach has waves breaking over sand rather than corals, making it a haven for beginner surfers. There are many good surf schools here, so you are not short of choice; with famous ones like Odyssey or Rip Curl School of Surf, else you can always hire a local guide for a cheaper alternative.
After the surf, relax and unwind with drinks and sunset at Ku De Ta and stay at one of the hotels near Kuta Beach * to maximize your surfing.

Learn to surf at Kuta Beach. Photo by Rip Curl School of Surf
Best Accommodations in Bali
Booking.com is my favorite site for booking a place in Bali when planning my trip. The main reason is that most bookings can be canceled right up to the trip, allowing flexibility. Here are a few of the best accommodations that we recommend for a stay in Bali:
Luxury (from 150 USD)
Oberoi Villa, Seminyak
For those looking for privacy and to splurge for a honeymoon or special occasion. With quick access to Seminyak Beach, this Balinese-inspired accommodation is built on 15 acres of tropical gardens. The Frangipani Cafe inside here is famed for its cuisine. Notables are their open-air massage pavilions and outdoor pool overlooking the ocean.
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Tandjung Sari Hotel, Sanur
For those who appreciate traditional architecture and design. This hotel, built in 1962, encapsulates the Balinese style and spirit. The spacious gardens are thatched roofed bungalows, pavilions, sculptures, and fish ponds. It also has direct access to Sanur Beach.
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Mid-range (50 – 150 USD)
Sri Ratih Cottage, Ubud
For those who are looking for unpretentious comfort with Balinese charm. Located in Ubud, our favorite place to stay in Bali, the Balinese-style cottages with carved wood furnishings are set in beautiful gardens with a pool.
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Resort Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Seminyak
Marriott is a trusted brand for many, and this one in Bali lives up to its name. This secured luxury is located just 5-minute walk to Seminyak Beach. A noted feature is its private terraces for relaxation, making it a favorite of couples.
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Budget (below 50 USD)
Nick’s Pension, Ubud
For those seeking a mixture of peace and action in the heart of Bali – Ubud. The rooms come with traditional Indonesian architecture and air-conditioning. A swimming pool, restaurant, Wifi, and parking are also provided.
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Linda Villa, Sanur
For the budget conscious, this guesthouse in Sanur is a steal, featuring swimming pools, clean, air-conditioned rooms, and a simple breakfast. It is located at a quiet place with only 15 minutes easy walk to the beach. Prices start from only 24 USD!
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Travel Tips: |
1. Book the best accommodations – Booking.com* or Agoda.com * |
2. Find the cheapest flight options that suit you – Skyscanner * or 12Go.asia * |
3. Rent a car in advance and make your trip more convenient – Rentalcars * |
4. Make the most of the time that you have! Exciting excursions, professional guides, and more – Klook * |
5. Book your train tickets online easily – Tiket.com * or bus tickets at Easybook.com * |
6. Oder ahead Indonesian Rupiah with the best exchange rate – Wise Travel Card * |