So you’re planning a trip to Bali? Smart choice. This Indonesian paradise has been stealing hearts for decades, and honestly, I get why. From ancient temples perched on dramatic cliffs to rice terraces that look like nature’s own Instagram filter, Bali delivers experiences you’ll be talking about for years.
We’re here to spill all the secrets. Whether you’re chasing perfect waves, seeking spiritual enlightenment, or just want to eat incredible food while watching epic sunsets, this guide has you covered.
Quick Bali Cheat Sheet – Save This!
| Spot | What’s the Vibe? | Best Time | Must-Do |
| Canggu | Surf town meets hipster haven | Golden hour magic | Catching the perfect sunset over the temple |
| Ubud | Spiritual meets cultural | Dawn adventures | Rice terrace sunrise |
| Seminyak | Fancy beach life | Sunset cocktail hour | Beach club vibes |
| Uluwatu | Clifftop drama queen | Sunset temple time | Monkey temple antics |
| Nusa Dua | Resort bubble luxury | Anytime really | Water geysers |
| Munduk | Mountain chill vibes | Morning freshness | Waterfall swimming |
What to visit in Canggu
Look, Canggu wasn’t even a thing a few years ago. Now? It’s basically the hottest destination on the island – all trendy cafes, coworking spaces, and all the smoothie bowls you can imagine. But here’s the thing: it works. The mix of traditional Bali culture with modern nomad energy creates something pretty special.
You’ll find rice paddies next to artisanal coffee shops. Balinese ceremonies are happening while someone livestreams their yoga class nearby. It sounds chaotic, but it’s actually magical.
Café del Mar Bali
This beachfront spot transplanted itself from the Spanish party island, and somehow it fits perfectly here. Café del Mar Bali offers housemade cocktails, stunning sunsets, and some Balearic beats for your own little slice of paradise in Bali!
- Hours: 11 AM to 9 PM daily
- Entrance fee: Free, minimum spend applied
- Where is it? Jl. Subak Sari, Canggu, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
- Phone: 0811-3811-7171
Batu Bolong Beach
Discover the real Canggu energy at Batu Bolong Beach! Catch surfers testing the waves at dawn, join yoga sessions along the path to the shore, and watch local dogs playfully mingle with visitors. The beach is lined with cozy warungs and vibrant beach clubs, offering the perfect blend of laid-back charm and lively vibes.
- Hours: 24/7 because beaches don’t close
- Entrance fee: Free, but parking costs IDR 2,000/scooter and IDR 5,000/car
- Where is it? Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong, Desa Canggu (The beach right in front of The Lawn)
Tanah Lot Temple
A little further up from Canggu (around 30 mins) and perched on a rocky island, this temple is arguably Bali’s most photographed spot. When sunset hits and the temple turns into a striking silhouette against the orange sky, you’ll wish you’d arrived earlier to snag the best vantage point!
Locals believe sea serpents guard the temple. At high tide, it appears to float on the ocean; at low tide, you can walk right up to it and explore its mystical charm. The temple itself is open only for Balinese Hindus; however, tourists are free to explore the surrounding area.
- Hours: 7 AM to 7 PM
- Entrance fee: From IDR 75,000/adult
- Where is it? Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency,
What to Visit in Ubud
Ubud pulses with genuine Balinese culture that goes back centuries. The rice terraces alone justify the trip. Add traditional healers, ancient temples, and art workshops where masters still teach century-old techniques? You’ve got something worth fighting the crowds for.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
Get right into the heart of Ubud by taking the long walk across the gorgeous hilltop of Campuhan Ridge Walk. This scenic trail winds through lush valleys and offers panoramic views of tropical vegetation and traditional villages.
Insider tip: Sunrise visits = fewer people + better photos + cooler temps
The entrance to Campuhan Ridge Walk is just outside central Ubud, making it easy to reach from most hotels and villas. If you’re staying in central Ubud, you head toward the Warwick Ibah Villas, and you’ll see a small sign pointing to the trail. Parking is available near the Gunung Lebah Temple, which also marks the starting point of the walk.
- Hours: 6 AM – 7 PM
- Entrance fee: Free! But keep small cash for parking.
- Where is it? Kelusa, Payangan, Gianyar Regency, Bali
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Over 700 long-tailed macaques live here alongside three ancient temples. It’s simultaneously sacred and slightly wild. Monkeys might steal your sunglasses, but watching them interact in their natural habitat is fascinating.
The temple architecture here is incredible – moss-covered stones telling stories from centuries past. Just keep your phone in a secure pocket.
- Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entrance fee: IDR 100,000/adult; IDR 80,000/child
- Where is it? Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
- Phone: 0857-3700-0080
Puri Saren Royal Palace
This isn’t some dusty museum. The descendants of the royal family still live here. The traditional Balinese architecture is stunning, but those evening dance performances? They’re the real treasure. Centuries-old stories told through movement and music that make your skin tingle.
- Hours: 8 AM-6 PM
- Entrance fee: Free; dance shows start from IDR 100,000
- Where is it? Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
What to Visit in Seminyak
If Canggu is the cool younger sibling, Seminyak is the successful older one who made it but stayed humble. Designer boutiques, world-class restaurants, legendary beach clubs – all without losing that essential Bali warmth.
Seminyak Beach
This golden sand stretch consistently ranks among the world’s best sunset spots. The hype is real. As evening approaches, the sky transforms into art – colors so intense they seem filtered even when they’re not.
You might even see horses trot along the waterline while vendors sell fresh coconuts, and everyone – locals and tourists alike – stops whatever they’re doing to watch the sun disappear into the Indian Ocean.
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Entrance Fee: Free as ocean air
- Peak time: 5:30 PM when the sunset crowd gathers
Seminyak Village
Take a break from the tropical heat and step into the air-conditioned mall right in the heart of Seminyak. Shop for trendy items, handmade goods, and then charge up with a tasty brunch at Baked. And if you’re already feeling the burn from walking around Bali, you can recharge yourself at Spring Spa, tucked right on top.
- Hours: 10 AM-10 PM
- Entrance fee: Free
- Where is it? Seminyak Village, Jl. Kayu Jati No.8, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361.
- Phone: (0361) 738097
La Favela
A visit to Seminyak isn’t complete without stopping by La Favela. Think Latin vibes, sharing platters, and a dance floor that gets crowded as the night goes on. There is a dress code, though, so make sure you dress to impress (no flip-flops, athleisure, or beachwear) or else you might be denied entry!
- Hours: 7 PM – 3 AM
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Where is it? Jalan Laksamana Oberoi No.177X, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80561
- Phone: 0818-0210-0010
What To Visit in Uluwatu
Seventy meters above crashing waves, Uluwatu clings to limestone cliffs that seem to scrape the sky. Ancient Balinese believed these cliffs protected the island from evil spirits. Standing here at sunset, temple bells ringing while waves crash far below, you might become a believer too.
Uluwatu Temple
This 11th-century temple clings to clifftops like it grew there naturally. Mischievous monkeys patrol the premises (seriously, guard your belongings), and the ocean views are absolutely jaw-dropping.
The evening Kecak performances are hypnotic – dozens of men chanting in circles while dancers tell ancient stories. Fire dances as the sun melts into the ocean. It’s pure magic.
- Hours: 7 AM to 7 PM
- Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000/adult; IDR 30,000/kids
- Where is it? Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali
Single Fin Bar
Perched right on the cliff edge, this legendary surfer spot offers front-row seats to Uluwatu’s drama. Cold beers, decent food, endless ocean views – plus you might catch world-class surfers tackling monster breaks below.
Weekend live music adds to the chilled atmosphere. It’s where surfers decompress after challenging sessions.
- Hours: 8 AM to 10 PM (Wed, Sat, and Sun until 2 AM)
- Entrance Fee: Free (but order something – the views are worth paying for)
- Where is it? Pantai Suluban, Jl. Labuan Sait, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Kuta Selatan, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
- Phone: 0859-5895-1520
Suluban Beach
This next destination is conveniently located right in front of Single Fin Bar! Also called Blue Point, this hidden beach demands effort. You’ll squeeze through narrow rock passages and navigate steep paths. But the reward? A secluded paradise surrounded by towering cliffs, with some of the world’s most challenging surf breaks.
- Hours: Open daily
- Entrance Fee: Entry IDR 5,000; parking IDR 5,000/scooter; IDR 10,000/car
- Caution: Steep scramble through cave-like rocks
What to Visit in Nusa Dua
Engineered specifically for tourism, Nusa Dua might seem artificial. But there’s something to be said for manicured perfection when you want hassle-free luxury. Clean beaches, world-class resorts, family-friendly attractions – sometimes you just want things to work smoothly.
Geger Beach
This crescent of white sand offers what many Bali beaches don’t – gentle, shallow waters perfect for kids. The sand is powder-soft, waves are manageable, and luxury resorts provide convenient amenities.
The calm waters make for the best conditions for snorkelling, paddleboarding, and canoeing!
- Hours: Open daily
- Entrance Fee: IDR 15,000
- Perfect for: Families wanting calm waters and soft sand
Bali Collection
This outdoor complex combines international brands with local handicrafts. Restaurants serve everything from authentic Indonesian dishes to familiar comfort food. It’s tourist-oriented, sure, but sometimes you want efficiency over authenticity.
- Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM
- Entry: Free browsing
- Where is it? Jl. Kw. Nusa Dua Resort, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
- Phone: (0361) 771662
Waterblow
When waves crash against these rocky formations, water shoots skyward like geysers – sometimes reaching 30 meters high. It’s a simple, natural theater that never gets boring.
Check tide schedules for the most dramatic water displays.
- Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Entrance fee: IDR 25,000/adult; IDR 15,000/child (foreigners)
- Where is it? Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80363
What To Visit in Munduk
Leave beach crowds behind and climb into Bali’s mountainous heart. Munduk sits in the highlands where temperatures drop, mist clings to jungle canopies, and waterfalls cascade through virgin forest. It’s a different Bali – one that feels almost untouched.
Munduk Waterfall
The hike to this waterfall is therapeutic before you even arrive. You’ll pass coffee plantations where beans dry on traditional platforms, spice gardens perfuming the air, and tropical forests alive with bird songs.
The waterfall drops into a natural swimming pool – perfect for cooling off after a 20-minute trek. The water’s cold but refreshing.
- Access: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Fee: IDR 20,000
- Where is it? Jl Raya No.Desa, Munduk, Kec. Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81152
Lake Tamblingan
One of the two twin lakes in Bali sits surrounded by virgin forest. Traditional boats can take you across waters while monkeys chatter in the surrounding trees. Jungle trekking here leads to hidden temples and ancient trees that predate tourism.
According to Balinese lore, the lake was formed after villagers prayed to the gods during a devastating drought. Miraculously, water burst forth from the earth, filling the basin and saving the people. The name Tamblingan comes from “tamba” (medicine) and “elingan” (remembrance), symbolizing the lake’s sacred role as a source of healing and divine blessing.
- Hours: Open daily
- Entrance fee: From IDR 10,000
- Experience: Traditional outrigger canoes across misty waters, guided trekking, and breathtaking photo sessions
- Where is it? Munduk, Banjar, Buleleng Regency, Bali
Banjar Hot Springs
These sulfur springs have attracted visitors for centuries. Three pools offer different temperatures – perfect progression after mountain hiking. The mineral-rich waters supposedly have healing properties.
Whether that’s scientifically accurate or not, they definitely soothe tired muscles.
- Hours: 7 AM to 7 PM
- Entrance fee: 30,000 IDR
- Features: Three pools with varying temperatures and carved dragon sculptures
Tips for Visiting Bali
Weather Reality Check
Dry season (April-October) means reliable sunshine but higher prices and crowds everywhere. The wet season brings afternoon storms but also lush landscapes and better deals. Those tropical downpours? Dramatic but usually brief.
Transportation That Won’t drive you to the limit
- Scooter rental gives you freedom but requires confident riding skills (Bali traffic is kinda creative)
- Private drivers cost 500,000-600,000 IDR daily but offer comfort and local knowledge.
- Grab and Gojek work well in tourist areas for shorter trips
Cultural Respect That Opens Doors
- Temple visits require modest dress (sarongs usually provided)
- Shoes off before entering sacred spaces
- Small donations (5,000-10,000 IDR) are customary and appreciated
- Learning “terima kasih” (thank you) works magic
Budget Breakdown That Actually Makes Sense
- Backpacker survival: $25-40 daily
- Comfortable middle ground: $50-100 daily
- Luxury experiences: $150+ daily
- Local warungs serve incredible food for under $3
Bali Travel FAQs (2025)
Q: When is the best time to visit Bali?
A: Bali’s dry season (April–October) is the most popular, with sunny days and calmer seas. Wet season (November–March) brings afternoon showers, but it’s also less crowded and more affordable — plus the landscapes are greener.
Q: Do I need a visa to enter Bali?
A: Most travellers can enter Indonesia visa-free for up to 30 days. For longer stays, you’ll need a tourist visa (Visa on Arrival, extendable to 60 days). Always double-check requirements before flying.
Q: Is Bali safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Bali is generally safe, but use common sense. Watch your belongings in crowded areas, wear helmets when riding scooters, and respect local customs. During the rainy season, check weather updates as heavy downpours can affect travel.
Q: What’s the best way to get around Bali?
A: Hiring a private driver is the most comfortable and reliable option (around IDR 500k–600k per day). Scooters are popular but require confidence in Bali’s traffic. For short trips, Grab or Gojek ride-hailing apps are convenient in major areas.
Q: How much should I budget per day in Bali?
A: Bali can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want:
- Budget travellers: $25–40/day (local warungs, hostels, scooter rental)
- Mid-range travellers: $50–100/day (boutique stays, drivers, nicer restaurants)
- Luxury travellers: $150+/day (5-star resorts, fine dining, private tours)
Q: What should I wear when visiting temples?
A: Modest clothing is required — cover your shoulders and knees. Sarongs and sashes are usually provided at temple entrances. Shoes must be removed before entering sacred areas.
Q: Is Bali good for families?
A: Absolutely. Nusa Dua and Sanur offer calm beaches, family-friendly resorts, and activities for kids. Ubud provides cultural experiences and nature adventures. Avoid heavy scooter use with children — private cars are safer.
Q: What’s one thing most tourists don’t realize about Bali?
A: Bali isn’t just beaches and nightlife — it’s deeply spiritual. You’ll see daily offerings, ceremonies, and festivals everywhere. Taking time to observe or respectfully join these traditions often becomes the most memorable part of the trip.
Final Thoughts
Here’s what guidebooks won’t tell you: Bali isn’t really about checking destinations off lists. It’s about those unexpected moments between planned stops. The elderly musician who teaches you traditional songs. The sunrise that stops you mid-sentence. The temple ceremony you stumble upon by pure luck.
These 18 destinations provide the framework for your adventure. But Bali’s real magic happens in the spaces between – in conversations with locals, in quiet temple moments, in that perfect wave or sunset you weren’t expecting.
Start with these spots, but stay flexible. Sometimes the best discoveries happen when you’re slightly lost, completely confused, and totally open to whatever this incredible island wants to show you next.
Pack light, bring curiosity instead of expectations, and prepare for an island that’ll change how you see the world.