14 Things to do in Bali: Temples, Waterfalls & More [with Tickets]

Planning a trip to Bali and wondering what to do once you get there?
You’re in the right place. This guide is packed with the best things to do in Bali: from must-see temples and stunning waterfalls to beach clubs, yoga retreats, cultural performances, and a few hidden gems you probably haven’t heard of yet.

You’ll find helpful travel tips, local recommendations, and personalized insights to help you plan smart and travel deeper. Think of this as your go-to Bali bucket list with a little bit of everything: sacred temples, surf spots, jungle rafting, traditional cooking classes, beachside massages, and all the magic in between.

So grab your notes! Because by the end of this guide, you’ll have a crystal-clear idea of what to do in Bali and how to make the most of your time on the island.

Let’s dive in. 🌺

1. 🛕 The Must-Visit Temples of Bali

Bali isn’t just an island paradise: it’s a deeply spiritual place where ancient traditions are still very much alive. The Balinese Hindu temples, known locally as “pura”, are more than just photogenic landmarks; they are the heartbeat of the island’s culture.

Scattered across jungles, cliffs, lakesides, and even the sea, these temples invite you to slow down and connect with the spiritual essence of Bali. Whether you're here for the views or the vibes, these sacred spaces are worth every step.

Here are some of the most iconic temples to add to your Bali itinerary:

Pura Lempuyang (The Gateway to Heaven)

• 📍 Location: East Bali, Karangasem Regency
• Famous for its split gate with Mount Agung in the backdrop, this is one of Bali’s most photographed temples. But be prepared it’s a bit of a hike to the top!
• Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid long queues and harsh sun.

Tanah Lot Temple

• 📍 Location: Beraban, Tabanan (West Coast)
• Built on a rocky outcrop surrounded by crashing waves, Tanah Lot is a true icon. It’s especially magical at sunset.
• Tip: Stay for the traditional dance performance held near the temple during golden hour.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

• 📍 Location: Bedugul, Central Bali (Lake Beratan)
• Floating peacefully on the lake, this temple is dedicated to the goddess of water. The cool mountain air here is a welcome break from Bali’s heat.
• Tip: Pair your visit with a stop at the nearby local market for strawberries and corn-on-the-cob.

Tirta Empul Temple

• 📍 Location: Tampaksiring, near Ubud
• Known for its sacred spring water pools, where locals and visitors alike take part in purification rituals.
• Tip: Bring a change of clothes if you plan to join the water blessing — it’s open to tourists too!

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave Temple)

• 📍 Location: Just outside Ubud
• An archaeological site with mysterious carvings, cave shrines, and jungle surroundings. It’s smaller than most temples but full of character.
• Tip: Combine it with a visit to nearby rice terraces or coffee plantations.

🧘 Temple Etiquette Tips

1. Dress respectfully: Sarongs and sashes are usually required (you can rent them at the entrance).
2. No entry during menstruation: According to Balinese custom, women are not allowed to enter temples during their period.
3. Be mindful of ceremonies: If you see locals preparing for offerings or rituals, observe quietly and respectfully.

2. 💦 Best Waterfalls in Bali

If you're craving a break from the beaches and want to reconnect with nature, Bali’s waterfalls are exactly where you need to be. Hidden deep in lush jungles, nestled between rice terraces, or gushing down from dramatic cliffs each waterfall has its own unique magic.

Many of these spots feel like scenes straight out of a dream, and the journey to get there is often half the fun: think short hikes, bamboo bridges, and the occasional monkey crossing your path.

Here are some of the most breathtaking waterfalls to add to your Bali adventure:

Tegenungan Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Near Ubud (Sukawati, Gianyar)
• One of Bali’s most accessible waterfalls, ideal for first-time visitors. It’s powerful, scenic, and surrounded by cafés with stunning views.
• Tip: Visit early morning to beat the crowds and catch the waterfall in soft light.

Sekumpul Waterfall

• 📍 Location: North Bali, Buleleng Regency
• Often called the most beautiful waterfall in Bali, Sekumpul actually consists of multiple falls crashing down a lush cliffside. It's a bit of a trek but totally worth it.
• Tip: Wear proper shoes — it’s a hike with steps, river crossings, and steep sections.

Tibumana Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Bangli, 30 minutes from Ubud
• A peaceful and picturesque single-drop fall surrounded by jungle. Great for swimming and less crowded than other waterfalls nearby.
• Tip: Bring water shoes, the rocks can be slippery near the pool.

Leke Leke Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Tabanan, Central Bali
• Tucked away in a bamboo forest, this narrow waterfall is Insta-famous for a reason. The walk down is scenic and relatively easy.
• Tip: Stop at the little café near the entrance for fresh coconut before your walk back up.

Nungnung Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Petang, North of Ubud
• Powerful and dramatic, Nungnung is for those who don’t mind stairs: 500+ of them! But once you’re at the bottom, it’s like finding your own secret jungle paradise.
• Tip: Go during the dry season (May–October); during rainy months, the flow can be too strong to swim.

🌿 Bonus Tip: Hire a Local Driver for a Waterfall Day Trip

Some waterfalls are remote and not easy to reach with a scooter, especially if it’s your first time in Bali. Hiring a private driver for a full-day waterfall tour is a great way to cover multiple spots safely and comfortably — plus, they often know extra hidden gems not on Google Maps.

3. 🌾 Where Nature and Culture Intertwine: Rice Terraces in Bali

When people picture Bali, rice terraces are often at the top of their mental postcard and for good reason. These emerald-green landscapes are more than just beautiful; they’re living proof of the island’s centuries-old subak irrigation system, a UNESCO-recognized heritage that blends water management with spiritual philosophy.

Walking through the terraces is a sensory experience the scent of wet earth, the rustling of palm leaves, and the rhythm of farmers tending the fields. It’s peaceful, it’s poetic, and it’s pure Bali.

Here are the most stunning rice terraces worth exploring:

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

• 📍 Location: Just north of Ubud
• Arguably the most famous rice fields in Bali, thanks to their steep, dramatic layout and countless Instagram appearances. Expect swings, cafés, and scenic viewpoints.
• Tip: Get there early (before 9 AM) for fewer crowds and cooler weather. Some paths may ask for small donations, keep small bills handy.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

• 📍 Location: Tabanan, Central Bali
• A UNESCO World Heritage Site and far less touristy than Tegallalang. The landscape is vast, open, and perfect for longer treks or bike rides.
• Tip: Bring walking shoes and time your visit around late afternoon for magical golden-hour lighting.

Sidemen Rice Fields

• 📍 Location: East Bali, near Mount Agung
• This area is a hidden gem: quieter, more authentic, and surrounded by traditional Balinese villages. The backdrop of Mount Agung makes it feel surreal.
• Tip: Consider staying overnight in a local guesthouse to catch sunrise over the fields. Pure magic.

🌿 Bonus Experience: Join a Guided Rice Field Walk

Several villages and eco-lodges offer guided walks through their local rice fields, where you can learn about traditional farming techniques, seasonal planting cycles, and even try planting rice yourself.

4. 🚣‍♂️ Rafting in Ubud: Paddle Through Bali’s Jungle Paradise

If you’re looking to balance Bali’s serene temples and peaceful rice fields with something a little more thrilling, white water rafting in Ubud is the perfect way to do it. Picture yourself paddling through lush rainforest canopies, past cascading waterfalls, and down gentle rapids: it’s the kind of adventure that gets your heart racing while still feeling deeply connected to nature.

The most popular river for rafting in Bali is the Ayung River, just a short drive from Ubud. It offers the perfect combination of excitement and accessibility, even for first-timers.

Ayung River Rafting

• 📍 Start point: Near Ubud town center (15–20 min drive)
• Class II–III rapids, suitable for beginners
• 10–12 km of river, around 2 hours of rafting
• Jungle cliffs, carvings in the rock walls, hidden waterfalls
• Tip: Many rafting packages include hotel pickup, lunch with a view, and shower facilities. Ideal after a muddy, splash-filled ride. Wear quick-drying clothes, water shoes (or old sneakers), and bring a waterproof bag if you plan to bring your phone or camera.

Telaga Waja River (For More Thrill Seekers)

• 📍 Location: East Bali, near Sidemen
• If you want more intense rapids, Telaga Waja delivers with faster flows and steeper drops, especially during the wet season.
• Tip: Better suited for those with a bit of rafting experience or who don’t mind getting seriously soaked.

🧭 What to Expect

1. Safety gear is always provided (helmet, life jacket)
2. Professional guides paddle with you and give commands. No experience needed.
3. Most tours are family-friendly, age 7+
4. Dry season (May to September) is ideal, but rivers run year-round

5. 🌊 Catch a Wave in Paradise: Surfing in Bali

Whether you're a total beginner or chasing barrels like a pro, surfing in Bali is a rite of passage. With warm water year-round, consistent waves, and a laid-back beach culture, it’s no surprise that surfers from all over the globe flock to Bali’s shores.

From mellow beach breaks perfect for first-timers to legendary reef breaks for the more daring, there’s a wave here with your name on it.

Here’s where to paddle out, no matter your skill level:

🟢 For Beginners: Easy Waves & Chill Vibes

🔹 Kuta Beach

• 📍 Location: South Bali, near the airport
• Wide sandy beach with small, rolling waves: ideal for first lessons. Surf schools and board rentals are everywhere.
• Tip: Great for your very first surf. Go early morning to avoid strong winds and big crowds.

🔹 Seminyak Beach

• 📍 Location: Just north of Kuta
• A bit more polished than Kuta but still beginner-friendly. Fewer vendors and more space to spread out.
• Tip: Surf, then chill at a beachfront café with a fresh coconut in hand. Perfect Bali day.

🟡 For Intermediate Surfers: Ready to Level Up

🔹 Canggu (Batu Bolong & Echo Beach)

• 📍 Location: West coast, north of Seminyak
• Canggu is Bali’s hipster surf haven and it delivers on waves too. Batu Bolong has softer waves, while Echo Beach is punchier.
• Tip: Morning sessions are best. Rent boards by the hour or join a surf camp if you’re staying longer.

🔹 Balangan Beach

• 📍 Location: Bukit Peninsula, south Bali
• A dreamy left-hand reef break with crystal-clear water. Good waves, fewer crowds than nearby Uluwatu.
• Tip: Not ideal for total beginners, but perfect if you’re gaining confidence.

🔴 For Advanced Surfers: Legendary Breaks

🔹 Uluwatu

• 📍 Location: Southern tip of Bali
• World-famous reef break with fast, powerful lefts and incredible cave access. A bucket list wave for many.
• Tip: Only for experienced surfers. Strong currents, reef bottom. Don’t paddle out unless you know what you’re doing.

🔹 Padang Padang

• 📍 Location: Just north of Uluwatu
• Called the “Pipeline of Bali,” this spot gets hollow and heavy during the dry season. Pro-level conditions.
• Tip: Spectators welcome! Even if you’re not surfing, watching from the cliffside warung is an experience in itself.

🏄‍♂️ Local Tips for Surfing in Bali

1. Dry season (May–September) = best swell + offshore winds
2. Wear reef booties if surfing reef breaks — saves your feet
3. Don’t drop in on locals — surf etiquette matters
4. Book a surf lesson or join a surf camp if you want to improve fast

6. 🔥 The Kecak Dance: Bali’s Most Mesmerizing Cultural Performance

If there’s one cultural experience in Bali you absolutely shouldn't miss, it’s the Kecak Dance: a fiery, rhythmic, and visually stunning performance that will leave you in awe.

Performed at sunset, often on dramatic cliffside stages like Uluwatu Temple, the Kecak Dance is part storytelling, part ritual, and 100% unforgettable.

What Is the Kecak Dance?

Unlike most traditional dances, the Kecak has no instruments: instead, the music is created entirely by a choir of over 50 chanting men who sit in a circle, moving in hypnotic rhythm. The performance tells the story of the Ramayana, an ancient Hindu epic filled with love, betrayal, and battles between good and evil.

There’s fire, costumes, trance-like chanting, and a sunset backdrop that makes it feel otherworldly.

📍 Best Places to See the Kecak Dance in Bali

🔹 Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu)

The most famous Kecak performance, held on a cliffside stage with a view of the Indian Ocean. The sun sets behind the dancers, it’s truly magical.

Tip: Arrive early (before 5 PM) to explore the temple and grab a good seat. Watch out for monkeys!

🔹 Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

A more intimate experience in the cultural heart of Bali. The performance takes place in the palace courtyard, lit by candlelight.

Tip: Walk around Ubud in the afternoon and grab tickets at a local booth or your hotel — they sell out quickly.

🎟️ How to Watch the Kecak Dance

• Most shows start at 6:00–6:30 PM, perfectly timed for sunset.
• Important: These performances are incredibly popular — especially at Uluwatu Temple — and they sell out fast. If you're planning to go, book your tickets in advance, either online or through your hotel/tour operator.
• Don’t wait until the last minute, arriving without a ticket often means standing room only or missing out altogether.
• Pro tip: Aim to arrive at least 45–60 minutes early, not just for better seats but to enjoy the temple grounds and sunset views before the show begins.

7. Yoga Retreat in Bali: Find Your Flow in the Island of Balance

There’s a reason why Bali is considered one of the global capitals of yoga. It’s not just about stretching on a mat — it’s about slowing down, breathing deeper, and tapping into a calmer version of yourself. Whether you're a first-timer or someone who already practices regularly, yoga in Bali hits differently maybe it’s the jungle air, the energy of the island, or the fact that savasana just feels better after a smoothie bowl.

While yoga studios are popping up all over Bali, the spiritual and cultural heart of yoga here is Ubud. Surrounded by rice fields and jungle, Ubud offers everything from casual drop-in classes to multi-day retreats with wellness programs, sound healing, and meditation.

🧘 Best Yoga Studios in Bali (for All Levels)

🔹 The Yoga Barn

• 📍 Ubud
• A world-famous yoga hub offering a wide range of classes — from Vinyasa and Yin to ecstatic dance and chakra healing. With multiple open-air studios, a healthy café, and holistic healing services, it's a full-on wellness sanctuary.
• Tip: Classes can fill up quickly — book ahead online, especially for sunset slots.

🔹 Radiantly Alive

• 📍 Ubud
• A stylish, welcoming studio offering strong flows, breathwork sessions, and more advanced workshops. Great for building consistency or trying new styles.
• Tip: Their community vibe is strong — check their schedule for events, talks, and even cacao ceremonies.

🔹 Serenity Yoga

• 📍 Canggu
• If you’re based by the beach, Serenity is your spot. Relaxed, friendly, and just a short walk from the surf. They offer a mix of drop-in classes and longer yoga retreats.
• Tip: Stay at their eco-guesthouse for an all-in-one surf + yoga + vegan food experience.

🧘‍♂️ 4 Yoga Tips for Your Bali Trip

1. No experience needed: Many classes are beginner-friendly — just show up and breathe.
2. Bring your own mat if you prefer, but most studios provide everything you need.
3. Hydrate & take it slow: Bali is humid, and some classes (especially power yoga) can feel intense.
4. Try something new: Sound healing, aerial yoga, ecstatic dance — Bali is the place to explore beyond the basics.

8. 🍳 Balinese Cooking Classes: Taste the Island, One Dish at a Time

One of the best ways to experience a culture is through its food and in Bali, that means getting your hands (and taste buds) into the island’s vibrant, aromatic, and spicy cuisine.

A Balinese cooking class isn’t just about learning recipes it’s a full experience. From walking through traditional markets to grinding spices with a mortar and pestle, these classes give you a true taste of island life. Plus, you get to eat everything you make and trust us, you’ll want to.

🔥 What You’ll Learn

• How to make traditional dishes like nasi goreng, satay lilit, gado-gado, lawar, and Balinese sambal
• The role of spices, herbs, and ceremonial ingredients in Balinese cooking
• Hands-on techniques like using banana leaves, grilling over coconut husks, and hand-pressing spice pastes
• Most classes are half-day experiences and often include a market tour, welcome drink, cooking session, and shared meal.

👩‍🍳 Best Cooking Classes in Bali

🔹 Paon Bali Cooking Class

• 📍 Location: Ubud
• One of the most popular (and top-rated) cooking classes in Bali, set in a local family compound. You'll cook authentic recipes with ingredients picked fresh from their garden.
• Tip: Book in advance — this one fills up fast!

🔹 Lobong Culinary Experience

• 📍 Location: Ubud
• A deeper dive into traditional Balinese culture and cooking. You’ll learn not just how to cook, but why certain dishes are prepared for specific ceremonies.
• Tip: Great if you're looking for something beyond just the food — more of a cultural immersion.

🔹 Pemulan Bali Farm Cooking School

• 📍 Location: Outside Ubud (pick-up included)
• An organic farm-to-table experience where you’ll harvest some of your own ingredients before heading into the kitchen.
• Tip: Vegetarian- and vegan-friendly with flexible menus.

🍽️ Why It’s Worth Doing

• Fun, interactive, and delicious: a great non-touristy day activity
• Perfect for couples, solo travelers, or families
• You’ll leave with recipes you can actually recreate back home
• A deeper appreciation for Balinese culture and hospitality

9.🍹 Beach Clubs in Bali: Where Sunsets, Beats & Cocktails Collide

Bali doesn’t just do beaches — it does beach life. And if you’re in the mood for sipping a cocktail with your toes in the sand, watching the sun melt into the sea while a live DJ sets the mood, then you’re going to love the island’s beach club scene.

From boho-chic hangouts in Canggu to luxury cliff-top lounges in Uluwatu, Bali’s beach clubs cater to every kind of vibe: relaxed afternoons, poolside parties, or full-blown sunset celebrations.

📍 Best Areas for Beach Clubs in Bali

🔸 Canggu – Trendy, youthful, barefoot luxury

This is Bali’s epicenter of surf-meets-style. Think bean bags, coconuts, surfboards, and sunset DJs.

🔹 Finns Beach Club

• With multiple pools, oceanfront daybeds, 9 bars, and a constant party vibe, Finns is easily Bali’s most famous beach club. Whether you’re here to chill by the pool or dance till after dark, Finns brings big energy — day and night.
• Tip: Book your spot in advance, especially on weekends or during DJ events. And don’t miss their sunset “fire show” by the pool — it's one of the best in Canggu.

🔹 The Lawn

• Laid-back yet stylish, with front-row sunset views and chill music. Come early for a daybed.
• Tip: Stay for their weekend parties — it heats up after dark.

🔹 La Brisa

• A whimsical, eco-chic beach club built entirely from reclaimed wood and fishing boats. Amazing food, dreamy views.
• Tip: Go for sunset, stay for the fire dancers and twilight magic.

🔸 Seminyak – Polished, upscale, all-day lounging

Seminyak knows how to do luxury with a casual twist.

🔹 Potato Head Beach Club

• An architectural icon with an infinity pool, oceanfront bar, and rotating art installations. Very Bali.
• Tip: Arrive early or reserve a daybed — this place gets packed.

🔹 KU DE TA

• One of the OGs. Elegant yet fun, with great food, cocktails, and music that leans into deep house and mellow vibes.
• Tip: Great for sunset dinners or stylish date nights.

🔸 Uluwatu – Cliff-top, exclusive, and cinematic

Here, it’s all about next-level views and a more sophisticated, resort-like feel.

🔹 Savaya (formerly Omnia)

• A luxury cliff-top day club with a glass-bottom infinity pool and big-name DJs. It’s a scene — and it’s stunning.
• Tip: Dress code applies. And yes, it’s worth the price tag for the views alone.

🔹 Single Fin

• Legendary surfer hangout perched above Uluwatu’s iconic break. Great drinks, live music, and unbeatable sunset views.
• Tip: Don’t miss their famous Sunday Sessions — it’s the place to be.

☀️ 4 Beach Club Tips

1. Daybeds often require minimum spend (ranges from ~$30–$150 USD depending on the place)
2. Sunset is prime time: expect crowds; book ahead when possible
3. Many clubs offer free entry if you arrive early (before 1–2 PM)
4. Dress code? Mostly casual, but some upscale clubs have rules (no surf shorts/tank tops)

10. 💆‍♀️ Massage & Spa in Bali: Relaxation, The Balinese Way

In Bali, getting a massage isn’t just a treat; it’s a way of life. Whether you’ve just landed, finished a waterfall hike, or spent a day surfing, a Balinese massage is the perfect way to reset. Rooted in ancient healing traditions, Balinese treatments blend long strokes, deep pressure, aromatherapy, and reflexology to release tension and restore energy flow.

And the best part? You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy a world-class experience. From luxurious jungle spas to budget-friendly massage huts by the beach, Bali offers relaxation at every price point.

✨ What Makes a Balinese Massage Special?

• Combines traditional Indonesian techniques with Ayurvedic influences
• Uses essential oils (like frangipani, lemongrass, or ginger)
• Focuses on both physical and energetic healing
• Often ends with a warm herbal tea and peaceful chill-out time

🧖‍♀️ Best Places to Experience Massage & Spa in Bali

🔹 Ubud: Jungle Calm & Spiritual Energy

If you’re looking for a serene, natural setting to fully unplug, Ubud’s spas are your go-to.

→ Ubud Traditional Spa

• 📍 Located just outside central Ubud
• If you're looking for an authentic, deeply healing Balinese massage experience, this is the spot. Family-owned and tucked away in a peaceful village setting, Ubud Traditional Spa is known for its warm hospitality, personalized treatments, and spiritual energy.
  
• Tip: Their Rice Farmer Massage is iconic — it combines deep pressure with long, sweeping strokes using coconut oil. Book well in advance — they have limited slots and lots of demand.
• Website

→ Karsa Spa

• 📍 Located on the Campuhan Ridge Walk
• Set among rice fields, with open-air massage rooms and flower baths — it’s the definition of a healing space.
• Tip: Book days in advance, especially for sunset time slots.
• Website

→ Taksu Spa

• 📍 Central Ubud
• Great for traditional treatments in a lush jungle garden setting. Affordable and professional.
• Tip: Try their signature Balinese massage + foot reflexology combo.
• Website

🔹 Canggu: Modern Vibes with Island Zen

Surfer town meets self-care haven. Canggu has a great mix of stylish spas and casual massage spots.

→ Goldust Beauty Lounge

• 📍 Batu Bolong, Canggu
• Known for its 24K gold facial and full-body pampering. Luxurious yet laid-back.
• Tip: Book a mani-pedi + massage package for a beach-ready refresh.
• Website

→ Therapy

• 📍 Echo Beach, Canggu
• Trendy spa with professional treatments and calming interiors. They take relaxation seriously.
• Tip: Excellent for couples massages and post-surf recovery.
• Website

🔹 Seminyak & Uluwatu: Luxury Escapes

If you're here to splurge, Seminyak and Uluwatu offer spa experiences worthy of a travel magazine.

→ Bodyworks Bali

• 📍 Seminyak
• Chic, iconic, and consistently top-rated. From deep tissue to hot stone massage — every detail is curated.
• Tip: Their flower baths are as photogenic as they are therapeutic.
• Website

→ The Spa at Alila Villas Uluwatu

• 📍 Uluwatu
• Ultra-luxury spa perched on a cliff. Come for the massage, stay for the ocean breeze and champagne after.
• Tip: Perfect for honeymooners or a treat-yourself day.
• Website

💡 4 Insider Spa Tips

1. Book ahead — especially in Ubud and during high season
2. Tipping is appreciated, but not required (10–15% is standard)
3. Avoid massages right after eating or sunburn
4. Ask for “medium” pressure if you're unsure. Balinese massages can get intense!

11. 🌴 Best Day Trips from Bali: Explore Beyond the Usual

As much as Bali’s main hubs (like Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu) have to offer, some of the most memorable moments happen just outside the usual routes. From sacred mountains to secret islands, there are endless ways to escape the crowds and dive deeper into Bali’s wild, beautiful heart — all within a day.

Here are some of the best Bali day trips that are 100% worth carving out time for:

🚤 1. Nusa Penida Day Trip

• 📍 Depart from Sanur or Padang Bai (30–45 min by fast boat)
• Think cliffside views, turquoise water, secret beaches, and dramatic coastlines. Nusa Penida feels like another world — but it’s just a boat ride away from Bali.

Must-sees include:

• Kelingking Beach (T-Rex shaped cliff!)
• Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong
• Crystal Bay (great for snorkeling)

Tip: Go with a guided tour that includes hotel pickup + fast boat + 4x4 transport on the island — the roads are rough and GPS won’t save you here.

Bonus: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and good walking shoes — there’s a lot of up and down.

🌋 2. Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

• 📍 North of Ubud, 2 hours by car (start around 2 AM)
• This is one of the most iconic experiences in Bali: hiking a volcano before dawn and watching the sunrise from above the clouds. The trek takes about 1.5–2 hours and is doable for anyone with average fitness.
• Tip: It gets chilly up there — wear layers and bring a flashlight or headlamp.
• Bonus: Many tours include a stop at a natural hot spring or coffee plantation afterward.

🛕 3. The Temple Circuit (Day Tour with a Spiritual Twist)

• 📍 Central to Northern Bali
• Visit some of Bali’s most important and photogenic temples all in one day — perfect for culture lovers and architecture nerds.

Popular combo:

• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (on a lake!)
• Pura Taman Ayun (royal water temple)
• Tanah Lot Temple (sunset perfection)

Tip: Hire a local driver/guide who can share stories behind each temple.

Bonus: Combine this with a stop at Jatiluwih Rice Terraces for epic scenery.

🌿 4. Sidemen Valley Escape

• 📍 East Bali, 1.5–2 hrs from Ubud or Canggu
• If you want to experience the “old Bali” — quiet, green, and untouched — Sidemen is a hidden gem. Hike through rice fields, visit traditional weavers, or simply relax with Mt. Agung as your backdrop.
• Tip: Visit during weekday mornings — weekends bring small local crowds.
• Bonus: Stop at a local warung for lunch with a volcano view.

🏞️ 5. Sekumpul Waterfall Day Trip

• 📍 North Bali (about 2.5 hours from Ubud)
• Arguably Bali’s most beautiful waterfall — or better yet, set of waterfalls — nestled deep in the jungle. It’s not an easy journey, but it’s totally worth the trek.
• Tip: Prepare for steps, river crossings, and humidity — but the photo ops are next level.
• Bonus: Combine with a stop at Munduk or Bedugul for cooler mountain air.

12. 🐒 Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Ubud’s Wild & Sacred Jungle

Tucked away in the heart of Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of Bali’s most unique and unforgettable experiences. Home to over 300 long-tailed macaques, this lush jungle setting weaves together nature, spirituality, and a bit of cheeky chaos.

Beyond the monkeys, the forest itself is sacred ground, featuring ancient temples, moss-covered statues, and towering trees that make the whole area feel like something out of a movie set.

Insider Tips:

• Don’t carry plastic bags or loose items — the monkeys are very curious
• Avoid direct eye contact and don’t try to feed them — let them do their thing
• Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler air

📍 Location: Central Ubud (walking distance from most hotels)

• Website
• Best Ubud Tour: Monkey forest, Rice Terrace & Waterfall

13. 🐅 Bali Safari & Marine Park: A Wildlife Experience with a Wild Twist

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that goes beyond the usual zoo visit, the Bali Safari & Marine Park delivers big. This sprawling wildlife sanctuary offers a safari-style journey through different animal habitats, home to over 100 species including Sumatran tigers, elephants, zebras, and orangutans.

You can explore the park by safari tram, catch animal shows, visit the freshwater aquarium, and even stay overnight at the Mara River Safari Lodge, where zebras roam just outside your room.

Highlights:

1. Safari Journey (guided tram ride through open enclosures)
2. Night Safari experience with BBQ dinner
3. Animal education shows & traditional Balinese performances
4. On-site water park for kids

📍 Location: Gianyar, around 30–40 minutes from Ubud or Sanur

• Bali Safari Tickets

14. 🦜 Other Fun Attractions: Bali Zoo, Bird Park & Waterbom

If you're traveling with kids or just love interactive, light-hearted experiences. Bali offers plenty of attractions that combine nature, fun, and a bit of splash.

🔹 Bali Zoo

• 📍 Gianyar
• Get up close with sun bears, lions, gibbons, and more. They also offer breakfast with orangutans, night zoo experiences, and a kid-friendly water zone.
  
• Tip: Great half-day activity, especially for younger children.
• Bali Zoo Entry Tickets

🔹 Bali Bird Park

• 📍 Batubulan, near Ubud
• A lush tropical park home to over 1,000 birds from 250 species, including hornbills, macaws, and the rare Bali Starling. You can feed birds, take photos, and even walk through giant aviaries.
  
• Tip: Pair it with a visit to nearby art villages or the Bali Zoo.
• Combo (Save 20%): Bali Bird Park + Bali Zoo Tickets

🔹 Waterbom Bali

• 📍 Kuta
• One of Asia’s top-rated water parks — and it's not just for kids. Think giant slides, lazy rivers, private gazebos, and top-notch food options.
  
• Tip: Come early, wear water shoes, and download their app to check ride wait times.
• Combo (Save 28%): Bali Zoo + Waterbom Bali Tickets

 ✈️ 5 Bali Travel Tips: What You Should Know Before You Go

🛬 Arrival & Airport Tips:

• Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is located in Denpasar, close to Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu
• Visa on arrival available for most countries (~$35 USD for 30 days) — pay in cash or card

💸 Money & Payments:

• Currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) — cash is still king in many areas
• ATMs are widely available, but avoid the standalone ones on small streets — use those attached to banks

🚦 Transport & Getting Around: 

• Bali has no public transportation — rely on Grab, Gojek, or private drivers

🧳 Packing Tips for Bali: Lightweight, breathable clothes

• Sarong (for temples or beach)
• Reef-safe sunscreen — regular sunscreen damages coral

🩺 Health & Safety

• Don’t drink tap water — always use bottled or filtered water
• Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to scooter, surf, or hike

Beyond the Guidebook: Small Experiences That Stay With You

These aren’t full-day activities but they’re the kind of small moments that turn a good trip into a great one. Here’s what you really shouldn’t leave Bali without doing:

1. Try authentic Balinese coffee: Especially Kopi Tubruk (strong, unfiltered local coffee) or Bali Kintamani coffee, which has a citrusy, volcanic flavor. Many cafés also serve Luwak coffee (from civet digestion), but consider the ethical side before trying it.
2. Tip: Want the full experience? Visit a local coffee plantation in Ubud or Kintamani.
3. Watch a Bali sunrise at least once. Whether it's from a mountain, rice terrace, or just the beach, there's something spiritual about Bali at dawn.
4. Take a flower bath — Yes, it's Insta-famous, but also incredibly relaxing. Many spas in Ubud and Canggu offer beautiful setups.
5. Learn a few local words — Even a simple “terima kasih” (thank you) goes a long way. Balinese people appreciate the effort.
6. Join a ceremony if invited — It’s a rare cultural window. Be respectful, wear traditional attire (they might lend you some), and observe quietly.
7. Bring home local goods — Handmade silver jewelry (Celuk village), natural soaps, essential oils, sarongs, and coffee make meaningful souvenirs.

Bali is more than a destination: it’s a feeling. It’s the sound of gamelan echoing through temples, the scent of frangipani in the air, the splash of a waterfall after a jungle hike, and the calm that comes after a sunset yoga class.
Whether you're in it for the waves, the culture, the food, or simply the peace and quiet, this island has a way of giving you exactly what you need — even if you didn’t know you needed it.

We hope this guide helped you discover new places, plan better, and get a little more excited for your trip.
If there’s one thing to remember: don’t try to do it all — just be present, and let Bali do the rest.

🌴 Safe travels, and enjoy every moment.