Bali is one of the most rewarding destinations in the world for travelling with children, and after more than 30 trips, I can confidently say it’s a dream spot for a family holiday in Bali when you know how to do it right. As a mum of two young kids, half Indonesian, and someone who has been visiting Bali since childhood (and even got married here), I’ve experienced this island in every season and stage of life, including travelling to Bali with a baby.

This guide covers the best things to do in Bali with kids, from cultural experiences and wildlife encounters to beaches, creative workshops, and indoor activities that are perfect for things to do in Bali when raining. Every recommendation is based on personal experience, with clear age groups, locations, costs, and practical tips that actually work when travelling Bali with kids.

Whether you’re planning your first Bali family holiday or returning with older children, this post is designed to help you build an itinerary that feels balanced, memorable, and realistic for parents. These are the things to do in Bali with kids that truly make a family trip unforgettable.

Quick Tips for Travelling to Bali with Kids

• Pre-purchase your eVisa to avoid long queues at the airport. It’s fast, easy and saves a lot of stress when travelling with little ones.

• Arrive early for immigration—families are often prioritised, but lines can still get long, especially during peak periods.

• Use the family bathrooms at DPS Airport—they’re cleaner, quieter and easier for changing nappies or helping toddlers.

• Organise an airport transfer before landing. Many drivers offer car seats on request (book early!).

• Get an eSIM before you leave or as soon as you land. We always recommend Airalo or Holafly—both work well across Bali and make it easy to stay connected.

• Download WhatsApp and Gojek.

  • WhatsApp: every hotel, driver and restaurant uses it.

  • Gojek: essential for food delivery, quick rides, nappy runs and snacks on demand.

• Stay in a mix of villas and resorts.
  Villas = space + private pool + flexibility.
  Resorts = kids clubs + pools + on-site dining + activities.
  The combination gives you the best of both worlds.

• Use Bali Kidz Hire for prams, cots, car seats, toys, high chairs, pool fences and more. It’s affordable and saves major luggage stress.

• Bring a soft baby carrier for navigating markets, rice terraces or uneven paths.

• Avoid street dogs—tell little ones not to touch or approach them. When we first started visiting, just like at home Kylo would love to pat the Bali dogos. We needed to teach him that it’s best not to in Bali.

• Carry small amounts of cash for snacks, coconuts, beach loungers, market stalls, and taxi boats.

• Always drink filtered water and avoid tap water for brushing teeth with younger kids.

• Consider travel insurance that covers kids’ medical needs, including ear infections, gastro and tropical illnesses.

• Pack lightweight clothes and swim gear, but remember Bali can also get cool at night in Ubud or Sidemen—bring a light jumper too.

• Plan downtime every day. Bali is stimulating—kids do best with slow mornings or afternoon naps/swims.

• Book activities early, especially beach clubs, water parks and boat transfers.

Best Time to Visit Bali with Kids

The best time to visit Bali with kids is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is sunny, humidity is lower, and the ocean is calmer for swimming. Families especially love June, July, September and early October, which offer comfortable temperatures and clearer skies—perfect for beach days, waterfall visits, and pool time.

That said, Bali is a fantastic family destination year-round. If you’re travelling in wet season (November–March), expect short afternoon downpours, lush green rice terraces, quieter beaches, and better deals on hotels and activities. This can be a great time for babies and toddlers who aren’t in school yet, as crowds are lighter and resorts often run specials. Just plan more indoor activities (cafés, soft play, kid-friendly restaurants, markets) and keep flexible day plans.

Getting Around in Bali with Kids

Getting around Bali with kids is easier than most families expect. We loved having a private driver during our last few trips, who we organised through Bali Kidz Hire. Wayan was knowledgable, reliable and had car seats for our kids! Most drivers typically include car seats on request, help with bags, and know the best scenic routes and local shortcuts.

For shorter distances, Bluebird taxis and Grab/Gojek cars are reliable and budget-friendly. In busy areas like Canggu or Seminyak, traffic can be unpredictable, so leave extra time for naps, feeds and getting to dinner reservations. Avoid scooters unless you are experienced and have proper helmets and insurance—roads can be chaotic and not ideal for little ones.

If you’re visiting the Nusa Islands, Gili Islands or Nusa Penida, pre-book boat transfers and avoid the busiest mid-day departures with younger children. Always pack snacks, hats and water for travel days—heat and waiting times can catch families off guard.

Getting an eSIM for Your Bali Family Trip

One of the most useful things you can do before flying to Bali with kids is to organise an eSIM. It makes your entire trip smoother, especially when you’re juggling little ones, luggage, naps, and transfers. Having instant data the moment you land means you can order a Grab or Gojek, message your accommodation, pull up directions, and keep kids entertained without relying on airport Wi-Fi.

An eSIM also removes the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards (which always seem to disappear into thin air when travelling with kids!). There’s no need to queue at the airport, no confusion with different providers, and no time wasted before you’re online. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly reliable – perfect for navigating Bali’s traffic, booking drivers, calling restaurants, or staying connected if your group splits up.

We recommend using Simovo for your Bali eSIM. Their setup is super simple, prices are great, and activation takes just a couple of minutes, ideal when travelling with little ones who don’t want to wait around. Having strong coverage across Bali also means you can stay connected everywhere from Canggu to Ubud, the Nusa Islands, Sidemen, or Uluwatu. Trust us, once you travel with an eSIM, you’ll never go back.

Where to Stay in Bali with Kids

Bali has some of the best family-friendly accommodation in the world, with options ranging from beachfront resorts to peaceful jungle villas. Your best location depends on your family’s travel style:

• Sanur – Calm waters, stroller-friendly paths, playgrounds, cafés and relaxed vibes. Ideal for toddlers and babies.

• Nusa Dua – Large resorts, kids clubs, private beaches, and the smoothest swimming conditions.

• Seminyak & Legian – Great for older kids or tweens who love beach clubs, shopping and lots of restaurant choices.

• Canggu – Trendy, villa-heavy, and fun, with a huge café scene and activities for families (soft play, playground cafés, beach bars).

• Ubud – Perfect for cultural experiences, rice terraces, animal encounters and jungle views. Best for kids who love exploring.

• Sidemen – Peaceful, authentic and stunning—great for nature-loving families and those looking to slow down.

• Uluwatu – Cliff views, surf beaches and incredible sunsets. Better for families with older kids due to steep paths.

Mixing locations is key. Our Bali itinerary with kids often looks like: beach area → cultural area → restful area.

Best Thing To Do In Bali With Kids

Culture and Temples

1. Uluwatu Temple

Age group: 5–10 years
Location: Uluwatu, South Bali
Cost: Around AUD $5 per person

Uluwatu Temple is one of the best things to do in Uluwatu. People often skip it when travelling Bali with kids, but with the right timing it can be one of the most memorable things to do in Bali with kids. I’ve visited Uluwatu countless times over the years, and once I had kids, I learned quickly that earlier is always better.

We visited mid-afternoon with my eldest, focused on the clifftop walk and ocean views, and skipped sunset crowds. The drama of the cliffs keeps kids engaged, and it adds a cultural layer to your family holiday in Bali without feeling like a chore.

Tip: Leave hats, snacks, and sunglasses in the car. Monkeys are part of the experience here, and keeping belongings secure makes this one of the best things to do in Bali with kids, not the most stressful.

2. Cooking Class

Age group: 4–10 years
Location: Ubud, Sanur, Canggu
Cost: Around AUD $40–70 per adult, kids often discounted

A family-friendly cooking class is one of my go-to recommendations for a Bali family holiday, especially when parents want something meaningful but kid-appropriate. We’ve done several over the years, and the relaxed, hands-on ones always work best with children.

My kids loved stirring sauces and tasting ingredients, and it’s such a lovely way to slow down during a busy family holiday in Bali and try some traditional Indonesian food. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for things to do in Bali when raining, since most classes are undercover.

Tip: Ask if kids can skip the market visit and head straight to cooking. Markets can be overwhelming, especially when travelling Bali with kids.

3. Balinese Cultural Experience

Age group: 4–10 years
Location: Ubud, village homes, cultural centres
Cost: Around AUD $10–25 per child

Learning how to make canang sari is one of the most meaningful cultural experiences you can do when travelling Bali with kids. I’ve grown up around these offerings, and sharing their meaning with my own children felt incredibly special.

Kids love the hands-on nature of it, and it naturally opens conversations about gratitude and daily rituals, which adds real depth to a Bali family holiday.

Tip: Choose a small-group or home-based experience. It feels more authentic and keeps kids engaged.

Pottery or Art Classes in Ubud

Age group: 4–10 years
Location: Ubud
Cost: Around AUD $15–30 per child

Ubud is full of creative experiences, and pottery or art classes are perfect for kids who need a calmer activity. We’ve done painting sessions here when the heat was too much, and it was such a grounding experience for everyone.

This is also a fantastic option if you’re looking for things to do in Bali when raining, while still adding cultural value to your family holiday in Bali.

Tip: Ask if kids can take their artwork home the same day. Waiting weeks is tough for little ones.

Chocolate Factory Tours

Age group: 3–10 years
Location: Ubud, Canggu, East Bali
Cost: Around AUD $10–20 per child

Chocolate factory tours are an absolute win with kids and parents. We’ve done this a few times, and every single visit has been a hit. Kids learn where chocolate comes from, get hands-on, and yes, taste testing is involved.

It’s educational without feeling like a lesson, which makes it one of the best things to do in Bali with kids, especially if you’re planning a slower family holiday in Bali.

Tip: Choose a smaller, ethical chocolate producer. They tend to be more interactive and kid-friendly.

Animal & Wildlife Encounters

Ubud Monkey Forest

Age group: 5–10 years
Location: Ubud
Cost: Around AUD $10–15 per person

The Ubud Monkey Forest remains one of the best things to do in Bali with kids once they’re old enough to understand boundaries. I waited until my son could follow instructions, and it made all the difference.

The shaded paths, jungle feel, and constant animal activity keep kids engaged without screens. It’s educational, exciting, and surprisingly calm if done right, making it one of the most iconic things to do in Bali with kids.

We visited late afternoon after exploring other Ubud attractions and kid-friendly Ubud Cafes like Milk and Madu.

Tip: Go first thing in the morning and explain monkey rules before entering. Calm kids create a calm experience for your Bali family holiday.

Bali Zoo – Breakfast with Orangutans

• Age group: 3–10 years

• Location: Singapadu, Gianyar

• Cost: Around AUD $50–60 per adult, AUD $30–40 per child

This is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in Bali with kids: a breakfast buffet in the midst of playful orangutans. Little ones can feed friendly deer, catch the bird show, and wave at giraffes from your table. Pair wildlife with a relaxed morning routine—this mix of animal magic and café convenience is a winner for ages 3 to 10.

Bali Safari & Marine Park

• Age group: 4–12 years

• Location: Gianyar

• Cost: Around AUD $60–80 adult; AUD $40–50 child

Hop aboard a safari jeep that drives past lions, zebras, and rhinos—plus enjoy animal shows, water play areas, and cultural dance performances. It’s a full sensory treasure trove that effortlessly earns its spot on any list of best things to do in Bali with kids.

Bali Farmhouse

Age group: 3–8 years
Location: Bedugul
Cost: Around AUD $10–15 per child

Bali Farmhouse is an underrated gem for families. We visited when my daughter was just over one, and it was one of the few places both kids genuinely enjoyed. Cooler air, open space, and animals make it ideal when travelling Bali with kids.

It’s simple and low-pressure, which is exactly what you want mid-trip during a family holiday in Bali.

Tip: Bring a light jumper. The mountain weather changes quickly, especially with young kids.

Water & Adventure Parks

Waterbom Bali

Age group: 2–12 years
Location: Kuta
Cost: Around AUD $40–60 per child

Waterbom Bali is hands down one of the best things to do in Bali with kids, and it’s lived up to the hype every single time we’ve visited. The park is beautifully maintained, well organised, and genuinely caters to different age groups, which makes it perfect for a Bali family holiday.

There are plenty of shaded areas, slower slides for younger kids, and bigger rides for older ones, so everyone feels included. Kylo loved the toddler playground and slides, and also had a go on the eurotrampoline.

Tip: Buy tickets online and arrive early. You’ll get the most out of the day before crowds and afternoon fatigue kick in.

Maimain Playground

Age group: 1–6 years
Location: Canggu
Cost: Around AUD $10–15 per child

Mainmain Playground in Canggu is one of those places I wish I’d discovered earlier. It’s thoughtfully designed, calm, and ideal for younger kids who want to explore at their own pace. We visited when my daughter was still very little, and it was one of the few places where she could move freely while my older child stayed engaged too.

It’s a great option if you’re spending time in Canggu and want something low-key that still feels intentional, especially during a family holiday in Bali where not every day needs to be high-energy.

Tip: Visit mid-morning when it’s quieter and pair it with lunch nearby for an easy half-day outing.

AeroXSpace Adventure

Age group: 4–10 years
Location: Denpasar
Cost: Around AUD $20–30 per child

AeroXspace is a lifesaver when kids need to move. We discovered it after a jet-lagged morning meltdown, and it instantly reset the day. Trampolines, obstacle courses, and safe indoor play make this one of the top things to do in Bali when raining.

For active kids, it’s easily one of the most practical things to do in Bali with kids, especially during a longer Bali family holiday.

Tip: Visit early for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Trans Studio Mall Bali

Age group: 3–10 years
Location: Denpasar
Cost: Free entry, activities vary

Trans Studio Mall is one of my favourite reset days when travelling Bali with kids. It’s air-conditioned, predictable, and has play zones that give parents a break.

Not every day of a family holiday in Bali needs to be adventurous. Sometimes the best memories come from easy days, and this is also a great option for things to do in Bali when raining.

Tip: Pair this with an early night to avoid overtired kids

Outdoor Adventures

Learn to Surf

Age group: 5–10 years
Location: Sanur, Nusa Dua, Legian
Cost: Around AUD $25–50 per child

Learning to surf is one of those unforgettable things to do in Bali with kids. Seminyak or Legian are the perfect learn to surf beaches as they have gentle breaks.

For active kids, this is one of the best things to do in Bali with kids and creates core memories during a family holiday in Bali.

Tip: Always choose a lesson that includes safety briefing and one-on-one support for younger kids.

Sanur Snorkelling for First-Timers

Age group: 4–10 years
Location: Sanur
Cost: Around AUD $20–40 per child

Sanur is hands down my top recommendation for snorkelling when travelling Bali with kids. The water is shallow, calm, and protected by a reef, which makes it ideal for first-timers. We introduced snorkelling here with my eldest, and it was the perfect confidence booster.

Seeing colourful fish just metres from the shore makes this one of the most relaxed things to do in Bali with kids, especially during a Bali family holiday where parents want low stress and high reward.

Tip: Go early in the morning when the water is clearest and before beach traffic picks up.

Kid Friendly Waterfalls

Tibumana and the upper area of Tegenungan are best for families. We avoid steep climbs when travelling Bali with kids, and these spots feel safer and more accessible.

Waterfalls add adventure without being overwhelming, making them some of the more memorable things to do in Bali with kids.

Tip: Always check water levels and avoid visiting after heavy rain.

Kid Friendly Beaches

Choosing the right beach can completely shape your experience when travelling Bali with kids. Over the years, I’ve learnt that calm water is only part of the equation. Easy access, space to explore, and nearby food options matter just as much on a family holiday in Bali.

Sanur and Nusa Dua remain favourites for families thanks to their gentle shorelines and walkable beachfronts, but if you’re staying in Uluwatu, there are still great options. Dreamland Beach and Balangan Beach both work well with kids when you time your visit around low tide. We’ve taken our kids to both, keeping beach visits shorter and pairing them with a relaxed lunch nearby.

For families wanting an even calmer beach experience, heading over to Nusa Lembongan is a fantastic option. The shallow waters and slower pace make it one of my favourite places to visit when travelling Bali with kids, especially if you’re staying a bit longer.

These beaches consistently feature among the best things to do in Bali with kids, offering space to play, explore, and enjoy the ocean without needing a full-day commitment.

Tip: Visit beaches early in the morning or later in the afternoon. It’s cooler, less crowded, and far more enjoyable for kids.

Kid Friendly Rice Terraces

Jatiluwih is my number one choice for families. Wide paths, less crowds, and space to explore make it far more manageable than Tegalalang with kids.

Walking through rice fields is a beautiful way to slow down during a family holiday in Bali, and kids love spotting frogs and ducks along the way.

Tip: Choose terraces with cafés nearby so kids can rest and parents can enjoy the view.

Kid Friendly Hikes

Short village walks and the Campuhan Ridge Walk early in the morning work best. Long hikes are rarely enjoyable for young kids, especially in the heat.

We absolutely loved our morning rice paddy walks in Sidemen. We stayed at Wapa di Ume Sidemen, and each morning they offer a guided walk through the surrounding rice fields. Starting the day immersed in nature, with Mount Agung rising behind the rice paddies, felt incredibly grounding for both us and the kids. After the walk, we’d head back to the hotel for a relaxed breakfast, which made it such a beautiful and easy way to start the day.

These gentle walks are a lovely way to balance adventure and downtime on a Bali family holiday.

Tip: If it can’t be done in under 45 minutes, save it for another trip.

Safety and Hygiene in Bali with Kids

Bali is generally very safe for families, but a few simple precautions will keep your trip smooth. Always drink bottled or purified water—avoid ice from small warungs, and choose restaurants with high reviews. Hand sanitiser and baby wipes are essential when out exploring, especially after touching animals or playing in the sand.

When it comes to food, introduce local dishes slowly to little tummies. Choose well-known cafés, avoid raw foods for younger kids, and carry rehydration sachets just in case. Bali’s heat can escalate dehydration quickly, so keep kids shaded, encourage regular water breaks, and apply sunscreen frequently.

Be mindful around monkeys (particularly in Ubud and Uluwatu) and street dogs. Teach children not to touch or feed them. Medical care is widely available—hospitals in Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak are excellent, modern, and used to treating families.

Laundry

Most villas and resorts offer affordable laundry services, usually priced by the kilogram. Turnaround is typically 24 hours and clothes come back fresh, pressed and neatly folded. This makes travelling light with kids incredibly easy—no need to pack weeks of outfits. Local laundry shops also provide quick service and are perfectly safe to use.

Tips for Flying to Bali with Kids

• Pick flight times that align with naps or bedtime if possible.

• Bring a fully stocked carry-on: snacks, wipes, spare outfits, entertainment.

• Download movies, games and shows on devices before you leave.

• For babies, feed during take-off and landing to help with ear pressure.

• Use a lightweight travel stroller or carrier for airports—they make transitions faster and easier.

• Pre-order kids meals on long-haul flights if offered.

Vaccinations for Bali

There are no mandatory vaccinations for entering Bali, but after consulting with our doctor, we chose to vaccinate Kylo for Hepatitis A and Typhoid after he was 3. So he went to Bali twice without being vaccinated.

Mosquito protection is more important than medication—pack repellent suitable for kids and choose accommodation that offers nets or indoor spraying if travelling to jungle areas.

Hiring a Nanny in Bali

Hiring a nanny in Bali is extremely common and can transform your holiday into an actual holiday. Bali nannies are warm, experienced and wonderful with children—many visitors book the same nanny year after year. You can hire through agencies or your hotel, from a few hours to full-day support. They can help with swimming supervision, nap times, meals, and giving parents a break to enjoy massages or date nights.

What to Pack for Bali with Kids

Packing for Bali with kids can feel overwhelming, but the good news is—you actually need far less than you think. Bali is warm, casual, and incredibly family-friendly, and anything you forget can easily be replaced once you arrive. Still, there are a few essentials that make travel days smoother and keep everyone comfortable in the tropical heat.

Start with lightweight, breathable clothing—think cotton tees, rompers, swimmers, and quick-dry items. Pack plenty of sun protection (rashies, hats, sunscreen) and mosquito repellent suitable for kids. Bring a small medical kit with the basics: Panadol/Nurofen, electrolytes, bandaids, antiseptic cream, and any regular medications.

For babies and toddlers, a soft carrier, travel stroller, swim nappies, and a favourite comfort toy will make transitions easier. Don’t forget tech essentials like chargers, power adapters, headphones, and pre-downloaded shows for downtime.

Other must-haves include: reusable water bottles, a wet bag for sandy clothes, floaties, a portable fan for naps, and a microfibre towel for beach days. Families with little ones should also pack their preferred formula, snacks, and a few familiar foods—just enough for travel days until you stock up locally. The rest? Bali has everything.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance isn’t optional for families—it’s essential. Bali is an easy destination, but kids are kids: bumps, bites, fevers, gastro, ear infections, food sensitivities and the occasional scooter scrape can happen. Choose a policy that covers medical care, hospital stays, flight delays, lost baggage, accident cover, and trip cancellations. Make sure your insurance includes water activities, as many families end up snorkelling, swimming at waterfalls, or taking boat trips—even if it wasn’t planned.

Medical care in Bali is excellent, especially in areas like Canggu, Ubud and Seminyak, but private clinics can be expensive without insurance. Always travel with digital and printed copies of your policy and keep your insurer’s emergency number handy. Your peace of mind will be worth every cent.

Bali Belly

Bali Belly (traveller’s diarrhoea) is common but manageable—and often preventable. The biggest causes are contaminated water, ice from local warungs, and unfamiliar food causing tummy upsets in little ones. Stick to bottled or filtered water, avoid brushing kids’ teeth with tap water, and choose restaurants with good hygiene and high reviews. Start slow with new foods to see how kids respond.

If someone does get Bali Belly, keep them hydrated with electrolytes, avoid dairy, and offer plain foods like bananas, rice, toast, and broth. Most cases pass within 24–48 hours. For anything longer—or if your child becomes lethargic or dehydrated—visit a local medical clinic immediately. Bali doctors are fantastic with kids and will help get things under control quickly. And yes, travel insurance helps enormously here.

How Much Does a Family Trip to Bali Cost?

The cost of a family trip to Bali varies depending on your travel style, but overall it’s still one of the best-value family destinations in the world. You can do Bali affordably with simple warungs, small villas, and local transport—or enjoy luxury resorts, private drivers, and premium dining. Most families fall somewhere in the middle.

Things that influence cost include how many locations you visit, villa vs resort stays, the number of day trips, food choices, activities (waterfalls, beach clubs, boats), and whether you hire a nanny. You can expect to spend anywhere from $150 to $450 per day, depending on your comfort level.

We have a full breakdown of our real-life spending as a family—accommodation, drivers, food, activities and more.

Eating Out in Bali with Kids

Bali’s cafes are kid-welcoming and creative. Many will tailor dishes like purée meals or re-heat food for babies—just ask! Look for shaded outdoor seating, babysitter services, or child menus. Always pack snacks and reusable water bottles, and identify local warungs for budget and cultural eating.

Our Favourite Cafes and Restaurants with Kids:

• Milk and Madu – Uluwatu, Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak
• Cashew Tree – Bingin
• Byrd House – Sanur
• Tiny Healthy Family Cafe – Canggu
• Village Cafe – Pererenan
• Mewali – Seseh

Bali truly offers something special for families, and with the right mix of planning and flexibility, it can be one of the most memorable trips you’ll ever take together. From calm beaches and cultural experiences to creative workshops and indoor play, these things to do in Bali with kids are designed to suit real families, real energy levels, and real life.

After decades of travelling here and now experiencing Bali as a parent, I’ve learned that the best family holiday in Bali is not about doing everything, but about choosing experiences that work for your kids and your travel style. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers or school-aged children, Bali continues to be one of the easiest and most rewarding destinations when travelling Bali with kids.

Save this guide, come back to it often, and use it to shape a Bali family holiday that feels fun, meaningful, and manageable from start to finish.

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