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 Simovo —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 or Airalo 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).
- Seseh – Quiet beachside village, trendy cafes
- 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. Eg. Seseh → Sidemen → Uluwatu
Hyatt Regency Bali is the best resort in Bali for families (our pick — beachfront, exceptional buffet breakfast, kids club) and Kayumanis Sanur (villa experience — they sent a beautiful car to collect us, stunning property)
Family Nest Villas (our top family pick — walking distance to Pangolin Kids Club, Bulvana Pilates)
Best Things 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 Uluwatu Temple when travelling with kids, but with the right timing it’s one of our favourite half-days out. I’ve visited countless times over the years, and once I had kids, I learned quickly that earlier is always better.
We went mid-afternoon with my eldest, focused on the clifftop walk and ocean views, and skipped the sunset crowds entirely. The drama of the cliffs keeps kids genuinely engaged — it doesn’t feel like a “cultural detour” parents are forcing on them.
Tip: Leave hats, snacks, and sunglasses in the car. The monkeys are part of the experience here, and keeping your belongings secure is the difference between a fun visit and a stressful one.


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.

The best cooking class we’ve done in Bali with kids was at Wapa di Ume Ubud — a private class with Chef Ayu and Lasmini where Kylo ground spices in the mortar and pestle, chopped shallots (very closely supervised), and whisked the pandan pancake batter. Kylo was so proud to cook and try some traditional Indonesian food. I
Lasmini had already worked out that Kylo was obsessed with strawberries and snuck some into his pancakes with a palm sugar syrup she made just for him. He ate every single one and was absolutely beaming with pride. It was one of the highlights of our whole trip.
Most classes are 3–4 hours and include a sit-down meal of everything you made. For families who want something meaningful but relaxed, it’s one of the best things to do in Bali with kids.
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.



4. 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.


5. 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
6. 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.


7. 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
8. 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.
9. 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
10. Pangolin Kids Club at Family Nest Villas
Age group: 0–10 years
Location: Family Nest Experience Villas, Jl. Labuansait, Pecatu, Uluwatu
Cost: IDR 280,000 for one child + one adult (includes all play areas). Additional children IDR 180,000 each
If there is one place in all of Bali I would tell every family with young kids about, it’s Pangolin. We discovered it when we stayed at Family Nest Villas on our most recent Uluwatu trip and it completely changed what a family day in Uluwatu looked like for us.
The space spans over 1,000m² across multiple storeys of indoor and outdoor play — and I mean proper, thoughtful play. There’s a 12-metre climbing tower with a ball pit, a dedicated baby play area where Zadi was completely happy, magnetic building tiles, a play kitchen, a library corner, an “ocean wave” dance and movement space, an outdoor playground with a basketball hoop and trampolines, and an art space called Dreamland.

Everything is built around Montessori principles and nature-based play, and it shows in the way kids actually engage with it rather than just bouncing between screens.
Kylo settled in within minutes. He found the magnetic building tiles and made a friend named Reef. When I asked him later how it was, he said he was “absolutely loving life,” which is the most Kylo review possible and also probably the most accurate.
There are daily workshops you can book in advance too: bracelet making, hair braiding, cookie decorating, cooking classes. Kylo did a cookie decorating session one afternoon and ate most of the icing before I could stop him. He considered this a triumph.



The SANDO café sits inside the club and does excellent smoothie bowls, Japanese sandos and karaage bowls — so you can refuel without going anywhere.
You don’t need to be staying at Family Nest to visit — day passes are available — but having it as part of your daily rhythm when you’re staying there makes a significant difference to the whole trip. It’s the reason we’d book Family Nest again!
Hours: Daily 8am – 8pm
Note: Grip socks required in play areas — available to purchase on site
Book Family Nest Villas — link | Pangolin Kids Club — pangolinkids.com





11. Waterbom Bali
Age group: 2–12 years
Location: Kuta
Cost: Around AUD $40–60 per child
Waterbom has lived up to the hype every single time we’ve visited. It’s beautifully maintained, well organised, and genuinely caters to different age groups — shaded areas and slower slides for younger kids, bigger rides for the older ones, so nobody in the family is left out.
Kylo loved the toddler playground and slides, and had a go on the eurotrampoline too.
Tip: Buy tickets online and arrive early. You’ll get far more out of the day before the crowds and afternoon fatigue set in.




12. Maimain Playground Canggu
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.





13. AeroXSpace Adventure
Age group: 4-10 years
Location: Denpasar
Cost: Around AUD $20-30 per child
AeroXSpace was a genuine lifesaver the day we discovered it. We walked in mid jet-lagged meltdown — overtired kids, overstimulated parents, day three of a trip that suddenly needed a reset — and it turned the whole day around. Trampolines, foam pits, obstacle courses, and safe, padded indoor play give restless kids somewhere to genuinely burn energy, rain or shine.
It’s not a “cultural” Bali experience, and it doesn’t need to be. Sometimes the best thing you can do for a family trip is give everyone a couple of hours to be loud and tired in a safe space, and this does exactly that.
Tip: Visit early for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures — by early afternoon it gets busy with local school groups.
14. 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
15. Learn to Surf
Age group: 5–12 years
Location: Seminyak, Legian, Nusa Dua
Cost: Around AUD $25-50 per child
Learning to surf is one of those experiences that turns into a real highlight of the trip, even for kids who’ve never been near a board before. Seminyak and Legian are the beaches we’d point you to first — the breaks are gentle and forgiving, and the local instructors there are genuinely great with kids, patient in a way that makes even a nervous first-timer relax within the first ten minutes.
We watched our eldest go from clinging to the instructor’s hand in the shallows to standing up (briefly, wobbly, absolutely thrilled) within a single lesson. It’s physical, it’s outdoors, and it gives kids a real sense of achievement that a lot of the more passive Bali activities don’t.
Tip: Always choose a lesson that includes a proper safety briefing and one-on-one support for younger kids — group lessons can mean less actual time in the water per child.

16. Sanur Snorkelling for First-Timers
Age group: 4-10 years
Location: Sanur
Cost: Around AUD $20-40 per child
Sanur is our top recommendation for a first snorkelling experience, hands down. The water here is shallow, calm, and protected by a reef, which makes it a completely different proposition to open-water snorkelling elsewhere in Bali — genuinely low-stress for both kids and parents.
We introduced snorkelling here with our eldest, mask and all, and it turned into one of the standout moments of that trip. Seeing colourful fish just metres from the shore, in water calm enough that there’s no real fear involved, is exactly the kind of low-stakes, high-reward activity that makes a family holiday feel easy rather than effortful.
Tip: Go early in the morning when the water is clearest and before the beach traffic picks up — visibility drops noticeably by midday.

17. Ulu Petanu Waterfall, Ubud ⭐ Our Top Family Pick
Waterfalls are one of those Bali experiences that work at every age — even the littlest kids respond to the sound and spray of water crashing through jungle. The key when travelling with young children is choosing the right waterfall. We’ve learned the hard way that steep, slippery, uneven tracks with no handrails and a screaming toddler on your back is not the vibe. These are the ones that actually work for families.
Our local Ubud driver Wayan recommended Ulu Petanu specifically because it’s more manageable with young children than most — and he was right. Around 90 concrete steps down to the waterfall itself, which makes it steep but doable even with Zadi in the carrier. On the way down we passed through a pond area full of koi fish and ducks and ducklings, which completely absorbed both kids before we’d even reached the water.

The waterfall itself is beautiful — not the biggest we’ve seen, but genuinely lovely with clear water and a rock pool at the base where a few people were swimming when we visited. If you want to keep going, there’s a cave beyond (IDR 10,000 extra per adult) and a second waterfall on the other side that Kylo was very insistent we see. We went through the cave — a bit smoky, a bit dark, genuinely exciting for a four-year-old — and viewed the second waterfall from above. By that point Zadi was fading so we turned back, which was absolutely the right call.
Entry: IDR 75,000 per adult, children free
Best time: Morning before the heat peaks
Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes — the steps and paths can be slippery


18. Munduk Waterfall Trek, North Bali ⭐ For Older Kids
The Munduk waterfall trek is a completely different experience to the waterfalls around Ubud — this is a half-day hike through clove and cacao plantations covering four separate falls (Melanting Falls, Golden Valley, Red Coral and Munduk Waterfall) and it’s genuinely spectacular. The cool highland air makes hiking so much more comfortable than in the south, and the plantation scenery along the route — smelling raw cloves and cacao as you walk — is unlike anything else in Bali.
We did this from Munduk Moding Plantation and the guides were excellent. We’d recommend this for families with kids aged 6 and up who are comfortable on uneven terrain for a few hours. For families with younger children, the drive up to Munduk is worth it for the views and the plantation experience even without the full trek — you can do shorter sections of the route.
💡 Tip: Stay overnight in Munduk rather than doing it as a day trip. The morning mist over the caldera lakes before a waterfall trek is genuinely one of the most beautiful things we’ve experienced in Bali.



19. Tibumana Waterfall, Ubud
One of the most accessible waterfalls near Ubud for families — relatively short walk, well-maintained path, and beautiful twin falls with a clear swimming hole at the base. Popular but manageable. Good option for an afternoon activity that won’t exhaust young kids before dinner.
What to avoid with young kids: Sekumpul (2.5 hours from Ubud, steep terrain, not suitable for under 8s), Gitgit (becomes very crowded and slippery), and any waterfall requiring more than a 45-minute return walk on uneven ground without clear steps.
💡 General waterfall tip: Always check recent trail conditions before visiting — paths that are fine in the dry season can be dangerous after heavy rain. Ask your villa or driver the morning you’re planning to go.
20. 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.




21. Kid-Friendly Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih is my number one choice for families. Wide paths, less crowds, and space to explore. During our Ubud itinerary, we also took the kids to Tegallalang Rice Terrace but viewed from Tis cafe rather than walking through it.
We also experienced some beautiful rice terraces during our stay in Sidemen. We would start the morning with a walk through the fields before breakfast. The kids loved starting the morning having a little adventure.
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.



22. 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, but this is usually priced per item. When we have a lot ( which is always because I have a 1year old…messy) we try and find a local laundry place that offer it by kg. A couple of kg is usually around $ 5 AUD.
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.
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, 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.
Bukit, Uluwatu — three-page breakfast menu, staff came straight to the table and gave Kylo colouring before we’d even ordered. One of the most genuinely family-welcoming cafes we’ve found in Bali
Milk and Madu, Uluwatu — warehouse-style space with a kids’ playground. The whole group went for breakfast — broccoli burrito, big breakfast, fritters — and the kids played the whole time. Enough space that it never feels crowded even with a big group
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
FAQ: Bali with Kids
What are the best things to do in Bali with kids?
Our top picks are Pangolin Kids Club at Family Nest Villas, Waterbom Bali, a private cooking class in Ubud, and gentle rice terrace walks in Sidemen. For younger kids, family-friendly waterfalls like Ulu Petanu and calm beaches like Sanur and Nusa Dua are hard to beat. We’ve broken down all 20 of our top picks above, with ages, locations, and costs for each.
Is Bali safe for kids?
Yes, Bali is generally very safe for families. The main things to watch are food and water hygiene (always drink bottled or filtered water), sun and heat exposure, and staying cautious around monkeys and street dogs. Medical care in family-popular areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak is excellent and well set up for treating kids.
What is the best age to bring kids to Bali?
Bali genuinely works at every age — we’ve travelled here with a baby, a toddler, and older kids, and each stage has its own rhythm. Younger kids (0-5) do best with a mix of villa downtime, calm beaches, and shorter activities like Pangolin Kids Club. Older kids (6+) can handle more adventurous days, like the Munduk waterfall trek or longer rice terrace walks.
How many days do you need in Bali with kids?
We’d recommend at least 7-10 days if you can manage it, giving you time to mix a beach base, a cultural stop like Ubud or Sidemen, and downtime without feeling rushed. Shorter trips are still worthwhile, just focus on one or two areas rather than trying to see everything.
How much does a family trip to Bali cost?
Most families spend somewhere between $150-450 AUD per day, depending on whether you’re staying in villas or resorts, how many day trips and activities you book, and whether you hire a driver or nanny. Bali remains one of the best-value family destinations in the world even at the higher end of that range.
Do I need to hire a nanny in Bali?
It’s not necessary, but it’s extremely common and can genuinely transform your trip. Bali nannies are warm, experienced, and easy to book through agencies or your hotel — even a few hours here and there gives parents a proper break for a massage, a date night, or just some quiet time.
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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