Bali is an island that endlessly surprises. With every return visit (we have now visited over 30 times), we find new corners, hidden gems, and fresh stories to tell. Over the years, we’ve poured those discoveries into guides like our Bali Travel Guide – Best Areas to Stay and our Bali Itinerary posts – and now, it’s time to update The Ultimate Bali Bucket List: Best Things to Do in Bali with new insights, hidden finds, and deeper tips for every kind of traveller!
This isn’t just a list of “tourist must-sees” – it’s your complete roadmap to things to do in Bali for adults, adventures for couples, family-friendly activities, and off-beat paths waiting to be explored. Whether you’re chasing the top 10 things to do in Bali, dreaming of romantic moments, looking for things to do in Bali with a baby or kids, or hunting for the most Instagrammable vistas, this guide will help you build a Bali itinerary you’ll remember forever.
The first 10 are our best things to do in Bali for your first visit or if you have a short amount of time. We will then continue the list with some extra must-do activities in Bali for a longer stay or a repeat visit. Let’s jump in – your Bali bucket list just got a glow-up.
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Visa Requirements for Bali
Most visitors to Bali will need a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or an electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA). The e-VOA is now the recommended option, and in some cases required, as it saves you time queuing at the airport. You can apply online at the official portal evisa.imigrasi.go.id at least 48 hours before you travel. The government fee is around USD $50, and once approved you’ll receive a digital visa to present on arrival.
If you choose to get your visa when you land, the VOA desk is still available at major airports, but expect longer lines. Payment is usually accepted by card or cash (USD/IDR), and you’ll need a passport valid for at least six months plus proof of onward travel. Both the e-VOA and VOA are valid for 30 days and can usually be extended once if you need a little more time.
Keep in mind that Bali also charges a tourist levy (around IDR 150,000 ≈ USD $10–15), which helps support local culture and sustainability projects. Always check the latest requirements before flying, as visa policies and fees can change.
Getting Around Bali
Navigating Bali is part of the adventure, and understanding your transport options is key to unlocking more things to do in Bali. We love to hire a private driver (we use the same one every year) rather than public transport, especially when moving between areas like Ubud, Canggu, or the east coast. Having a car and driver gives us the flexibility to stop at waterfalls, rice terraces, and temples along the way, plus we are also able to organise car seats for the kids thi way.
If you’re staying in more touristy areas (like Ubud, Canggu, or Seminyak), scooters are a popular choice. But always assess your comfort and local traffic conditions before renting. I’ve never had the confidence to hire one myself but many tourists love the convenience of this option. For shorter runs inside towns, we use ride-share apps (e.g. Gojek / Grab) or local taxis. Just make sure you download the Gojek or Grab app.
We recommend mapping your driver ahead (or having local SIM / eSIM) so you can adapt your day on the go. This freedom lets you hit more attractions in Bali without losing time battling transport.
Best Time to Visit
To enjoy Bali at its best, aim for the dry season, from April through October. During these months, skies are clearer, trails are drier, and outdoor adventures (treks, beaches, temples) are more pleasurable. We visit Bali every year for 3 weeks in May.
That said, Bali is still liveable in off-peak seasons (December–March), though rain and humidity rise. If you travel in the shoulder months (April–May or September–October), you may strike the best balance of fewer crowds, decent weather, and lower accommodation prices.
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Trying to decide where to stay in Bali where to stay in Bali can be tricky, as there are so many amazing places. Some of the places to visit in Bali may be far from where your hotel is, so mixing your bases or staying centrally matters.
We often stay in 3-4 areas during a 3-week trip and so we can experience a mix of relaxing, adventure and exploring all the things to do in Bali.
Ubud – heart of culture, jungle vibes, wellness and rice terraces. Great for couples, those seekinga slower pace, or things to do in Bali for adults.
Canggu – trendy, surfy, cafés, nightlife, but also peaceful corners. Fantastic for things to do in Bali with family or couples.
- Uluwatu – Amazing beaches, surfy, cafés, beach clubs. Great for all traveller types.
Seminyak / Legian – luxury, beach clubs, restaurants, shopping. Good for first nights or city-style access.
East Bali / Sidemen – quieter retreats, rice fields, village life – perfect for escaping the usual crowds.
Nusa Islands – for island hopping, snorkelling, clear waters and laid-back beach life.
Staying in more than one area helps you experience more of what Bali has to offer without spending all your time driving.
Our Top 15 Things To Do In Bali
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1. Explore Uluwatu – My favourite Place on the Island
No Bali bucket list is complete without spending time in Uluwatu and after visiting Bali more than 30 times, this is one place we love to return every year. Perched along dramatic limestone cliffs on the Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is famous for its world-class surf breaks, jaw-dropping ocean views and laid-back coastal energy. Surfers travel from all over the world to chase legendary waves at Padang Padang, Bingin, and Uluwatu Main Break, while even non-surfers will find plenty to love simply cruising between viewpoints and beaches.
Hiring a scooter and spending the day checking the swell at different breaks is easily one of the most iconic things to do in Bali Indonesia.
Beyond the waves, Uluwatu is home to some of the best beaches in Bali, epic clifftop beach clubs and an ever-growing food scene. Lazy afternoons at one of the the best Uuwatu beach clubs like Ulu Cliffhouse or Sundays Beach Club are a rite of passage, and the area is packed with some of the best cafes and restaurants in Bali, from casual warungs to elevated dining.
As the sun dips, head to Uluwatu Temple, dramatically perched above the Indian Ocean, and stay for the iconic Kecak Fire Dance at sunset, one of the most unforgettable things to do in Uluwatu.
During our wedding at Uluwatu Surf Villas we had a pre-wedding at Savaya and El Kabron, which were highlights for our friends and family during their time in Bali. These iconic Uluwatu venues are so much fun and have the best views of the sunset! We also spent our wedding morning doing very Uluwatu things – for the girls, it was a Pilates class overlooking the water, while the boys did a big group surf!
Accommodation here suits every travel style. You’ll find luxury resorts like Anantara Uluwatu, boutique stays such as Elementum and Green Escape Eco Resort, and spacious private villas perfect for families or groups. We’ve stayed across all styles over the years, and it’s one of the reasons we keep coming back — Uluwatu always feels special, whether you’re visiting with kids or planning a romantic escape. If you’re planning your stay, we break it all down in our full Uluwatu accommodation guide, including our favourite resorts, boutique hotels and villas.
2. Fall in Love With Ubud – The Cultural Hub of Bali
At the heart of the island lies Ubud, Bali’s cultural and spiritual hub. Surrounded by lush rice terraces and waterfalls, it’s the perfect place to slow down and reconnect. We have visited Ubud for yoga retreats and got to experience the beautiful meditation and healing ceremonies — making it one of the best destinations for things to do in Bali for couples and solo travellers alike.
But Ubud isn’t just about wellness though. You can wander through the famous Monkey Forest, or my favourite take a sunrise trek along the Campuhan Ridge Walk, or visit art galleries and craft markets. We also enjoy Ubud’s cafes and thriving plant-based dining. Whether you’re planning a Bali bucket list adventure or just want to recharge, Ubud offers a deeper side of the island that balances perfectly with the coastal fun of Canggu and Uluwatu.
One of our absolutely favourite things to do in Ubud is escape the hustle and embark on a rural discovery of the local villages that surround Ubud with a cycling tour! There are options for both half and full-day eco-educational cycling tours! Escape the tourist areas and see the real Bali, learning directly from the locals.
It gives you a deeper sense of Bali. We loved visiting the family compounds, rice paddies, markets and to learn about local life. This is easily one of the best Ubud attractions and should be on every Bali itinerary. Lunch, snacks, and a coffee break are usually included.
WHERE: Ubud
HOW MUCH: $30-$50
OUR PICKS: Bali Hai Bike Tours, Eco- Tours
3. Discover Sidemen – Bali’s Hidden Gem
Sidemen is a quiet village in East Bali. It’s about 90 minutes from Ubud and around 2.5 hours from areas down south like Canggu or Uluwatu. It is a true hidden gem that we discovered on our last trip to Bali and aboslutely fell in love. It’s one of those rare places that still holds that raw, authentic magic that Bali was once known for before the crowds arrived. We stayed at Wapa di Ume with our 5-month-old baby and 4-year-old old and it was the highlight of our 3-week trip.
If you’re craving peace, natural beauty, culture and connection, this is where you’ll find it. It’s not the place for beach clubs or shopping, instead we did some trekking through rice paddies, sipped ginger tea with a view and explored sacred waterfalls. Whether you’re travelling solo, with your partner, or as a family, Sidemen Bali has something special to offer.
4. Island Hop over to the Nusa Islands
One of the best things to do in Bali is to leave it for a more relaxed island life! Head to the Nusa Islands for uninterrupted paradise.
Just a short boat ride from Sanur, the Nusa Islands – Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida – offer a completely different vibe from mainland Bali. With their crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and hidden beaches, they’ve become some of the most photographed places to visit in Bali Indonesia. Exploring these islands is a true Bali bucket list adventure.
On Nusa Penida, you’ll find iconic viewpoints like Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach, while Nusa Lembongan is known for its laid-back vibe, mangrove tours, and surfing. Nusa Ceningan is the smallest of the three, but it’s famous for its yellow bridge and cliff-jumping spots. Whether you’re a couple chasing adventure or a family looking for a relaxed island escape, a day trip or overnight stay on the Nusas is one of the top 10 things to do in Bali.
My husband and I visited Nusa Lembongan for our honeymoon after our Bali wedding. It was 5 days of pure bliss, which was really needed after planning a wedding. With no traffic or hawkers on the island, it is fast becoming a popular sanctuary for surfing, diving and snorkelling. It also has some of the clearest water you will find anywhere, with a very vivid shade of blue.
HOW TO GET THERE: From Sanur or Pandang Bai take a speedboat with Setia Cruise Ferries or Rocky Fast Cruise. Alternatively, you can take a local boat.
HOW MUCH: Approx $20 return ticket for a speedboat
WHERE TO STAY: Royal Retreat Villa’s Lembongan, Svaha Private Villas Ceningan, Bukit Ancak Lembongan Villa
5. Find the Best Beaches in Bali
One of the reasons we never get tired of Bali is how different each beach feels — even after dozens of visits, exploring the coastline is still one of our favourite things to do in Bali. We’ve spent days hopping between surf beaches, quiet coves and family-friendly bays, and every trip ends up looking a little different depending on our mood and who we’re travelling with.
In Uluwatu, my love Thomas Beach. The walk down is a bit tricky but its worthy as it has the bluest water i have ever seen. It’s one of our go-to spots for a relaxed beach day as a couple, especially in the afternoon when the light softens. Balangan Beach is another favourite — we love it for long walks along the sand, watching surfers, and staying until sunset when the cliffs glow golden.
When travelling with kids, we naturally gravitate towards calmer waters. Geger Beach in Nusa Dua has been a great option for us, with gentle waves and plenty of space to spread out, while the beaches around Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida offer clear, shallow water and a slower island pace. For something completely different, Amed and Jemeluk on the east coast have become places we seek out for snorkelling straight from the shore and a more local, unpolished beach experience.
Padang Padang and Thomas Beach (Uluwatu area): foamy surf, striking cliffs, and a little magic for couples.
Geger Beach (Nusa Dua / East Bali): calmer waters, great for families and snorkelling.
Balangan Beach: long stretch, good for beach walks, surf, and sunsets.
Amed / Jemeluk (East Bali): black-sand coastlines and reef snorkelling spots.
Nusa Lembongan / Penida: pristine, turquoise bays away from the mainland hustle.
6. Do A Cooking Class – A Cultural Immersion
I believe to truly immerse yourself in a country, you must understand its food culture and a hands on Balinese cooking class lets you bring Bali home in flavour. Many classes start with a morning visit to a traditional market, where you’ll pick spices, herbs, fruits, and vegetables.
Back in the kitchen, you’ll chop, grind, stir, and learn local techniques and recipes that have been handed down through generations – think satay, lawar, nasi campur, and sambals. Then you sit down and enjoy your creations. Its a great activity to do in Bali with kids.
Cooking classes are offered all over Bali – especially in Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu. Many also include cultural insights about ceremonial uses of food and local ingredients. By the end, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for what things to do in Bali Indonesia really mean, not just sights, but flavour and connection.
WHERE: Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu
HOW MUCH: Starting from $35
OUR PICKS: Bumbu Bali, Casa Luna Cooking School, Urban Farm
7. Visit the Amazing Waterfalls
Waterfall chasing is one of our favourite inland adventures in Bali, especially when we want a break from the heat and crowds. We’ve visited waterfalls across the island, from easily accessible ones near Ubud to more remote, jungle-hidden gems in the north – and each visit feels like a mini adventure. There are many great waterfalls in Bali to discover, in the North of Bali we love Sekumpul Waterfall, which is located towards the Bedugul area. Due to its height and force, it is definitely one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali. For an unbelievable swim head to Banyumala Twin Waterfall which is around 57km from Ubud.
There’s something incredibly refreshing about hiking down through lush greenery, hearing the sound of rushing water before you see it, and then swimming beneath a waterfall surrounded by jungle. It’s one of those activities in Bali that makes you feel immersed in nature and reminds you how diverse the island really is.
Quick tips
Best time to visit: Morning before tour groups arrive
Where to stay nearby: Ubud or Munduk
8. Explore the Awe-Inspiring Rice Terraces
Seeing Bali’s rice terraces for the first time is unforgettable, and even after dozens of visits, they still stop us in our tracks. While Tegallalang is the most well-known, we personally prefer exploring quieter areas like Sidemen or Jatiluwih, where you can truly appreciate the scale and beauty without the crowds.
Walking through the rice paddies, watching farmers tend the fields, and hearing water flow through the ancient Subak irrigation channels gives you a deeper understanding of Bali’s way of life. These landscapes aren’t just beautiful, they’re living, working systems that have sustained communities for generations. For us, this is one of the most authentic things to see in Bali.
Quick tips
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon
Where to stay nearby: Sidemen for peace, Ubud for convenience
Best cafes: Local warungs near Jatiluwih, KAFE or Sayuri in Ubud
9. Learn to surf
Many beaches in Bali don’t have big swell, making them the perfect spots for learning to surf. I recently learnt to surf at Batu Belong in Canggu by Sunny Surf & Stay whom I HIGHLY recommend. It is a great and freeing skill to learn! They cater specifically for beginners and intermediate surfers who want to learn how to surf or improve their surfing in a fun and safe environment. Many retreats and camps combine surfing and yoga in an all-inclusive deal. Check out Goddess Retreats.
WHERE: Canggu, Seminyak, Sanur, Uluwatu, Kuta
HOW MUCH: Starting from $20
OUR PICKS: Sunny Surf and Stay, Mojo Surf
10. Indulge in Bali’s Wellness Rituals
One of the most iconic activities in Bali is to simply indulge. From world-class spas and yoga studios to flower baths and floating breakfasts, the island is a haven for wellness lovers. Treat yourself to a traditional Balinese massage at a jungle spa in Ubud, or book a beachfront treatment in Seminyak – both experiences you’ll want to add to your Bali bucket list.
Many resorts and private villas offer floating breakfasts, where trays of tropical fruit, pancakes, and coffee arrive at your private pool – one of the ultimate things to do in Bali for couples. For a deeper reset, Ubud is full of yoga shalas and healing centers where you can try sound baths, reiki, or multi-day retreats. Whether you’re looking for romantic moments, self-care, or family-friendly downtime, Bali’s wellness culture makes indulging part of the journey.
Best Spas in Bali:
- Alam Wellness – Peneneren
- Bodyworks – Seminyak
- Spring Spa – Various locations
- Svaha Spa – Ubud
- Goldust Spa – Canggu
- Spa Alila – Uluwatu
11. Appreciate the Food Scene
Bali’s food scene is as diverse and exciting as the island itself. From humble warungs serving fragrant nasi goreng to fine-dining restaurants led by international chefs, food here is an experience in itself. Start your mornings in Canggu’s cafes, famous for smoothie bowls, specialty coffee, and creative brunches, many of which are contenders for the best breakfast in Bali.
For dinner, we love seafood feasts in Jimbaran, elevated Indonesian cuisine in Ubud, or spend the evening at one of the best beach clubs in Bali, where global menus meet sunset cocktails. Food is also a family-friendly highlight, with plenty of healthy, kid-approved options. No matter your taste or budget, exploring Bali’s culinary side is one of the top 10 things to do in Bali and a delicious way to connect with the island’s culture.
OUR PICKS:
12. Visit Bali’s Best Temples
Another part of Bali that never fails to captivate us is the temples. Having visited the island over 30 times, we’ve come to appreciate not just their beauty, but the deep sense of spirituality and culture that flows through everyday life here. Temples are everywhere, from small shrines in family compounds to grand village complexes — and they offer a window into Bali’s rich Hindu heritage.
Some of our absolute favourites include:
Pura Gunung Kawi – We love wandering through this 11th-century temple complex, with its dramatic rock-cut shrines carved into the cliffs. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful rice terrace views surrounding the temple. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes because the steps can be slippery, and don’t forget your sarong, you can hire one at the entrance.
Pura Lempuyang – The iconic “Gateway to Heaven” here is breathtaking, and we still get goosebumps every time we stand in that frame with Mount Agung in the background. It’s worth planning for an early morning visit; the line for the perfect photo can get long.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu – Visiting this clifftop temple never gets old. We love timing it so we can watch the Kecak Fire Dance at sunset, which is one of the most magical cultural experiences on the island. Keep an eye on the cheeky monkeys around the temple – we’ve had more than one bag-snatching incident! Tip: Bring sunscreen and a hat, as there’s very little shade during the performance.
These temples aren’t just photo opportunities, they’re immersive experiences. Take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and we promise you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the spiritual heart of Bali.
13. Climb Mt Batur
One of our favourite experiences in Bali is the sunrise trek up Mount Batur. It’s the island’s most popular hike, and for good reason — waking up at 2 am, trekking through the cool, dark morning air, and then watching the sun rise over the caldera is simply unforgettable. The hike itself takes around 2 hours at a moderate pace, and the views from the summit make every early wake-up call worth it.
Most tours include a stop for a Balinese coffee and a light breakfast at the top, which is a nice touch after the climb. Prices usually start around $40–45 USD, and you can either book in advance online or organise a tour through street vendors once you arrive in Bali. We personally loved this tour, it’s a more private group — it makes the experience feel a bit more special.
Quick Tips:
Where: Mount Batur, Central Bali – hotel pick-up included on most tours
Best time to go: Sunrise for unbeatable views (be prepared for an early start!)
Our Picks: Sunrise Trek, Mt Batur Trekking – we’ve done both and loved the sunrise vibes and the calm atmosphere before the crowds arrive
Climbing Mt Batur is perfect for adventurers, couples looking for a memorable experience, and families with older kids who enjoy a challenge. It’s hands down one of the must-do activities in Bali and a highlight of our Bali bucket list every visit.
14. Have Sunset Cocktails at Iconic Beach Clubs
For adults, couples, and groups of friends, spending a day at one of Bali’s world-class beach clubs is one of the most fun activities in Bali. From the clifftop infinity pools of Uluwatu to the chic, beachfront vibes of Seminyak and Canggu, these spots mix great dining, music, and incredible ocean views!
Some of our favourites include Sundays Beach Club and Ulu Cliff House in Uluwatu, Finns Beach Club and La Brisa in Canggu, and Potato Head in Seminyak. Each has its own personality – from family-friendly pools to lively party vibes, so you can choose depending on whether you’re after romance, relaxation, or nightlife. For many travellers, it’s not just about lounging; beach clubs have become signature things to do in Bali for adults looking to enjoy sunsets, cocktails, and iconic Bali moments.
For the families check out the best kids club Bali hotels, where you can have a poolside cocktail whilst the kids play!
OUR TOP PICKS:
- Sundays Beach Club
- Finns
- Potato Head
- The Lawn
- El Kabron
- Savaya
15. Become a Local in Canggu
Trendy, lively, and full of Bali’s unique energy, Canggu has quickly become one of the island’s most popular spots and for good reason. With endless surf breaks, boutique shops, yoga studios, and a buzzing café culture, it’s easy to spend days just wandering the streets, sipping coffee, and soaking in the vibe. We love exploring the Canggu Cafes, hopping between Instagram-worthy cafés and restaurants serving everything from colourful smoothie bowls to woodfired pizzas – it really is a foodie paradise.
That said, Canggu can get very busy, especially on weekends, with scooters buzzing, tourists crowding the beaches, and long waits at popular cafés. After several trips, we now prefer staying a little north in the quieter village of Seseh, which has that same Bali charm but with a more peaceful, laid-back pace. Still, Canggu is a must-do if you haven’t experienced it yet — it’s where Bali’s modern, creative energy truly shines.
Canggu is also home to some of the best beach clubs in Bali, like The Lawn and Finns, where you can spend an afternoon lounging by the pool with a cocktail before heading down to Echo Beach for a sunset surf or just to watch the waves roll in. Whether you’re seeking things to do in Bali for couples, fun outings with friends, or simply a mix of relaxation and nightlife, Canggu delivers.
Quick Tips:
Where to stay nearby: Boutique villas in central Canggu, or Seseh for a quieter stay
Must-visit spots: The Lawn, Finns Beach Club, Crate Café, Café Organic, MaiMain Playground for Kids, Alam Wellness Spa
Top Things to Do in Bali Continued…
16. See a Traditional Balinese Dance
Bali is rich in culture, this can be seen in its traditional ceremonies and iconic art performances. We visited Uluwatu to experience The Kecak Fire Dance at sunset where performers use dominant human vocals in place of gamelan instruments to accompany the dramatic dance. We highly recommend this experience and a visit to the island won’t be complete without seeing a show, and the best place to do so is at the cliff-top amphitheatre located just south of the Uluwatu Temple on Bali’s southern Bukit peninsula. There will also be chances in Ubud as an alternative.
WHERE: Uluwatu, Ubud
HOW MUCH: $20-$50
OUR PICKS: Sunset Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance, Balinese Traditional Barong Dance
17. Immerse Yourself in a Wellness Retreat
There are many benefits of a wellness retreat, why not combine these enriching activities with a relaxing stay in Bali. Many retreats in Bali cater to all wellness types including holistic, surf, yoga, detox, fitness, women’s only with a varying degree of budgets.
These renewing experiences are all about personalising your retreat with your individual wellness needs, with most offering nourishing meals, activities, coaches and Ayurvedic and Spa treatments.
WHERE: Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak
HOW MUCH: $800+
OUR PICKS: Pineapple House, Fivelements
18. Eat Local Cuisine – My Favourite is Nasi Campur
The culinary landscape of Indonesia is as diverse as its culture and showcases spices, chilli and aromatics. Favourites include Babi Guling, Gado Gado, Mie Goreng and Bakso. My top pick though is Nasi Campur (pronounced ‘champoor’), which translates to rice with assorted goodies. This is often tempe, a curry, Balinese vegetables and water spinach. Here are the best food to try in Indonesia.
WHERE: Everywhere!
HOW MUCH: Starting from $2
OUR PICKS: Warung Murah, Warung Biah Biah, Warung Sopa, Warung Yogya
19. Learn About the Hindu Culture
Although multi-religious, Bali is predominantly Hindu. Originally from Java, this blend of Shivaism and Buddhism is fascinating, spiritual and complex.
In Balinese Hinduism, the indigenous beliefs manifest in the belief that nature is “power” and each element is subject to influence from spirits, with ancestry worship playing a huge role.
Spirits and ancestors are treated with respect, with daily offerings (Canang Sari) that are made from betel leaf and topped with colourful flowers that all have symbolic meaning. These are then placed in temples, shrines, in front of stalls and even in their cars!
20. Explore Seseh – Another Hidden Gem in Bali
Just north of Canggu lies Seseh – a village that’s quietly becoming one of Bali’s best-kept secrets. If you want to blend beach vibes with rice-field charm, things to do in Bali for couples or creative travellers, Seseh delivers.
Seseh’s coastline is calmer, with fewer tourists, making it ideal for walks, quiet beach time, and coastal sunsets. It’s also close enough to Canggu to hop into the buzz for cafés, surf, and nightlife. Stay in a villa overlooking rice paddies or the ocean and soak in that balanced rhythm of Bali life.
Its proximity to the west coast makes Seseh a strategic base: you can explore places to visit in Bali across both inland and coastal zones, without being stuck in one bubble.
21. Head to the Gili Islands
Head to the Gili Islands for uninterrupted island life complete with beach bungalow living. The Gili Island is made up of three islands, the main one is The Gili Islands are a group of 3 tiny islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – in Indonesia, near the coast of northwest Lombok Island. Characterized by sandy beaches fringed with palm trees, they’re known for their coral reefs just offshore.
On the smallest island of Gili Meno, sea turtles swim at Turtle Point. At Gili Trawangan, the largest island, a sunken ship sits at Wreck Point near Mentigi Beach and don’t miss the famous swing at sunset. Immerse yourself in island life and stay in a beach bungalow!
OUR PICKS: Le Pirate, Gili Kulemba Bungalow, Island Beach, Pondok Santi Estate, Gili Treehouses
22. Visit Kintamani
Kintamani is one of Bali’s most dramatic regions, offering sweeping views of Mount Batur and its surrounding caldera lake. For many travellers, a sunrise trek up Mount Batur is a must-see Bali experience – one of those top 10 things to do in Bali that lives up to the hype. The hike is accessible for most fitness levels, and watching the sun rise over the mountains is unforgettable.
There are many Kintamani tours available so you can enjoy the breathtaking view of an active volcano and lake Batur. The trips usually include a visit to a Balinese traditional house compound, art village, monkey forest, a pass-through Tegallalang rice terrace, coffee plantation stop, before a lunch at the famous Kintamani viewing spot! Alternatively, you could hire a car or driver to drive directly to the volcano.
Beyond trekking, Kintamani is also a hotspot for hot springs, coffee plantations, and scenic restaurants perched above the volcanic lake. Couples will love it for the romantic mountain views, while families can enjoy exploring the natural surroundings and relaxing in the hot springs. It’s one of the most unique places to visit in Bali if you’re looking to see a different side of the island away from the beaches.
23. Learn Bahasa Indonesia
A fun thing to do in Bali when visiting is to try and speak Indonesian! There are many benefits to learning the basics when visiting a new country. Indonesia is an easier language to learn as well so why not try a couple of words, the locals appreciate it and if they think you are more than a regular ‘tourist’ they won’t try to rip you off as much! Try this app to help you learn the basics.
Yes: Ya
No: Tidak
One more: Satu Lagi
Thank you: Terima Kasih
How much: Berupa
I don’t want: Saya Tidak Mau
Food: Makan
Drink: Minum
Very Cold: Dingin Sekali
Delicious: Enak
24. Pick up a bargain at Ubud Markets
One the top things to do in Bali for the shopper is to visit The Ubud Art Market! A huge maze of artisan and handcrafts. It’s open every day from 6am to 6pm and the best time to visit in as early as possible- the crowds will be less, as will the heat and when its less busy the vendor often offer a better price. The markets are located opposite the Royal Ubud Palace, at Jalan Raya Ubud No.35, but most taxi drivers will know it if you just say ‘Ubud Market’.
25. Have a seafood feast at Sunset in on Jimbaran Beach
One of the top things to do in Bali is to have a seafood feast on Jimbaran Beach over sunset. An abundance of seafood restaurants lines Pantai Muaya, offering fresh grilled seafood and yummy Balinese sauces.
26. Go Shopping!
One of the best things to do in Seminyak is to shop! Once Bali shopping equalled cheap knockoffs, Bintang singlets and tie-dyed sarongs. All these still exist in the abundance at markets, but there is now also a more sophisticated shopping experience. From high-end boutiques, incredible homewares, inspiring custom pieces and surf shops scattered through the heart of Seminyak and surrounding areas.
27. Stay in a Private Villa
Bali is the perfect place to choose to stay in a private villa, there are so many wonderful choices that are actually affordable. Here you can have luxurious privacy without the hefty price tag! From private pool villas to traditional Balinese style, or villas with multiple bedrooms and services like cooks and drivers for families. There is something for everyone!
TOP PICKS: Palm House, Fella Villas, Alam Bidadari, Suarti Boutique Villas, Sanakra Villas
28. Escapes the Crowds and Stay in Sanur
A quieter and more relaxed coastal area. Around 30 mins from the airport, it sits on the opposite side of the island to Kuta. A long stretch of beach that offers shallow blue waters. The main street Jalan Tamblingan is home to restaurants, shops and hotels. We stayed at Wirasana Bali on the main street for under $30 a night!
29. Get Adventurous and Go White Water Rafting
Looking for something a little bit more thrilling? One of the top things to do in Bali for the adventurer is to get wet and wild and enjoy a thrilling white water rafting trip along the enigmatic Ayung River in Ubud.
30. Visit Tirta Empul
Although slightly undiscovered by many tourists there are many top things to do in Bali in the North. Head North to discover one of the largest and busiest water temples in Indonesia. The Tirta Empul was founded in 926 A.D. and is dedicated to Vishnu, who is the Hindu god of water. The name meaning ‘holy water spring’ is located in the village of Manukaya serving as a national cultural heritage site. Many people visit the temple for ritual purification.
31. Experience the big swing in Ubud
A fun thing to do in Bali is the big swing in Ubud. You would have seen the magnificent photos on Instagram, huge swings over the lush rice fields of Ubud. It’s a fairly new playground boasting a number of giant swings with spectacular views below. Once you are in Ubud you can organise with a driver to take you to the spot or book a tour here.
32. Visit Amed
On Bali’s tranquil northeast coast, Amed is a hidden gem for those looking to slow down and experience a different side of the island. Known for its black sand beaches and dramatic volcanic backdrops, this coastal stretch is perfect for diving, snorkeling, and exploring local fishing villages. The waters here are home to colorful coral gardens and the famous USAT Liberty Shipwreck in nearby Tulamben – a must for underwater adventurers.
Beyond the sea, Amed offers a laid-back vibe with cliffside cafés, yoga retreats, and breathtaking sunrise views over Mount Agung. It’s one of the best places in Bali to step away from the hustle of the south and immerse yourself in a more traditional, peaceful rhythm of island life.
33. Snorkel at Blue Lagoon
One of the best places for snorkelling in Bali is Blue Lagoon located in Padang Bai. This spot is also popular for getting your Padi or diving. The snorkeling area has a sandy bottom and is home to one of Bali’s coral reefs. While you are exploring the reef, expect to see cuttle fish, angel fish, cow fish and moray eels.
34. Hot Air Balloon over Ubud
Enjoy a new but very unique experience in Ubud, Chedi Club Tanah Gajah now offers Hot Air Ballooning. Throughout the months of June to November, each flight climbs a thrilling 50 metres over rice fields and floats at the end of a tether and lasts for around 10 minutes. This truly awe-inspiring ride comes with panoramic views of nature including lush tropical forest, Agung Volcano, and Mt Batur as well as breakfast for morning guests and tea and cake for afternoon flights.
35. Escape to the Cool Highlands of Munduk
If you want to see a completely different side of Bali, Munduk is the place to do it. Tucked away in the lush highlands of North Bali, this area feels worlds apart from the busy beach towns. The air is cooler, the pace is slower, and the landscapes are seriously breathtaking — think misty mountains, jungle valleys, coffee plantations and hidden waterfalls. It’s the kind of place where you wake up to clouds rolling through the hills and spend your mornings sipping coffee with a view.
One of the best things to do in Munduk is exploring its waterfalls. Munduk Waterfall, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls and Melanting Waterfall are all within easy reach and feel far less crowded than many of Bali’s southern spots. We loved wandering the walking trails between villages, stopping at local warungs, and just soaking up how peaceful it all feels. Munduk is perfect to add to your Bali itinerary if you’re craving nature, fresh air and a reset — even just one or two nights here makes a big difference.
36. Slow Down by the Sea in Lovina
Lovina is all about slowing right down. Located on Bali’s north coast, it’s best known for its calm black-sand beaches and laid-back coastal vibe. After the energy of places like Canggu or Uluwatu, Lovina feels refreshingly quiet — no beach clubs, no traffic chaos, just gentle waves and sleepy seaside villages. It’s an ideal stop if you want to experience a more local, low-key side of Bali.
One of the most popular things to do in Lovina is heading out early in the morning on a traditional boat to spot dolphins. While it’s a well-known activity, we recommend choosing a responsible operator and going early for the best experience. Outside of dolphin watching, Lovina is a great base for relaxed beach days, snorkelling, visiting nearby hot springs, or using it as a jumping-off point to explore North Bali. If your Bali bucket list includes seeing beyond the usual hotspots, Lovina is absolutely worth adding.
What are your favourite things to do in Bali? Comment below.
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Awesome article.