Bali, Indonesia: 57 Best Things to Do and See

Imagine an island where you wake up every morning to the sound of tropical birds, where green rice terraces alternate with turquoise lagoons, and where a spiritual atmosphere permeates everything. Bali is not just another tropical destination to tick off your travel list; it’s a magical place that will irrevocably captivate you with its beauty, culture, and endless variety of experiences.

On this Indonesian island, you’ll find virtually everything you could wish for, and there’s always something to do. Do you want to learn to surf? Do you long for spiritual cleansing in sacred temples? You’ll find that here too. In this guide I will share with you Bali, Indonesia: 57 Best Things to Do and See.

Do you love adventure and nature trips? Waterfalls you have to trek through the jungle to reach, volcanoes at sunrise, and hidden beaches where you’ll be completely alone await you. Do you want to practice yoga every day or take a yoga course? Well, where else to do it than in Bali, right? Do you want to enjoy smoothie bowls and other delicacies in beautiful establishments every day for just a few dollars? Fly to Bali.

So, let’s take a look at 57 places to see in Bali.

TL;DR

• Best time to visit: April to October (dry season), but Bali is beautiful all year round (even with showers).
• Accommodation: Ubud for culture (Kumala Ubud Villa), Seminyak for luxury, Canggu (e.g., Dicky House) for surfing and nightlife, Uluwatu for peace (e.g., Wiras Village or Zena Surf Suite).
• Transport: Rent a scooter (if you dare) or use Gojek/Grab apps, or hire a driver with a car.
• Biggest treasures: Rice terraces, Tanah Lot temple, Nusa Penida island, Sekumpul waterfalls, and sunrise at Mount Batur.

When to Go to Bali

Bali welcomes you with sunny and warm weather almost any time of the year, but if you want a perfect vacation, proper timing and a bit of planning are essential.

• The dry season (April-October) is considered the best time to visit. The sun shines almost every day, temperatures hover around a pleasant 30 degrees Celsius, and humidity is not too high. This is an ideal time for sightseeing, relaxing on beaches, and mountain treks. However, be aware that this is when Bali receives the most tourists, so popular places will be crowded and prices a bit higher.
• The rainy season (November-March) also has its charm. It usually rains only briefly during the day, then the sun comes out again, and the entire island becomes even greener thanks to the rain. Moreover, this is a time when you’ll encounter fewer tourists in Bali and enjoy a more authentic atmosphere. Just be careful in December, when crowds of visitors arrive on the island due to the Christmas holidays.

The best compromise? Try May, June, September, or October. In these months, you are almost guaranteed sunny weather, but there are fewer tourists than in the high season.

Bali Vacation: where to Stay

Choosing accommodation in Bali is quite a challenge – beautiful accommodations are around every corner, at a reasonable price, and each area of Bali has its own soul and atmosphere. So it’s almost impossible to decide where to stay. 😅

• Ubud is the heart of spiritual Bali. Here you’ll sleep surrounded by rice fields, waking up to the sound of birds instead of noisy scooters. It’s an ideal place for those seeking peace, wanting to practice yoga, or explore Balinese culture. Stay in one of the beautiful resorts with jungle views.
• Seminyak is for luxury lovers. You’ll find designer hotels, excellent restaurants, and the most beautiful beach clubs on the island. While it’s more expensive than other areas, the comfort and services are top-notch.
• Canggu is loved by young travelers and surfers. The atmosphere here is relaxed, with trendy cafes everywhere and affordable accommodation. If you want to be in the center of the action but don’t want to spend a fortune, Canggu is a perfect choice.
• Uluwatu is a paradise for those seeking peace and privacy. The area is less developed but all the more beautiful. It is located on cliffs with amazing ocean views.
• Nusa Dua is a place of luxurious resorts with perfectly maintained beaches. It’s a great choice for families with children.

But if I had to recommend something, then these are the accommodations:

• Zena Surf Suite,
• Wiras Village,
• Dicky Guest House 2 Batu Bolong.

Bali and Transportation

Getting around Bali is an adventure in itself. There aren’t many road rules, and they drive on the left.

A scooter is king of local transport. For a rental fee of around 150-200 CZK per day, you gain complete freedom of movement. Just be careful with traffic – Balinese drivers are somewhat chaotic, and roads are often not in the best condition. Don’t forget your helmet and international driving permit.

A private driver costs approximately 600-1500 CZK for a full day and is a great investment if you want to visit more places or go on a longer trip. Local drivers know the best routes and often recommend hidden spots you wouldn’t find on your own.

But if you don’t want to bump around in a car, forgot to get an international driver’s license, or simply don’t dare to ride a scooter yourself, then my favorite mode of transport is the Grab or Gojek apps. They work on the same principle as Bolt or Uber, except here you have the option to get a scooter driver (calling a car is also an option). It’s reliable and very cost-effective. Plus, you don’t have to worry about parking or navigation. And it all adds to the Bali experience.

What not to Do in Bali

To ensure your vacation goes smoothly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Do not disregard local customs. When visiting temples, wear long pants and cover your shoulders. You can borrow a sarong at the entrance. Never enter a temple barefoot and respect worshippers. Also, avoid entering a temple if you are menstruating – for Balinese, this is considered impure. And most importantly, behave quietly and respectfully, especially when prayers are taking place.
• Do not photograph locals without permission. Be sensitive, especially at temples and during religious ceremonies. Balinese people are very friendly, but respect their privacy.
• Do not underestimate the power of the sun. Even when it’s cloudy, the tropical sun is very intense. Use high-factor sunscreen and drink plenty of water.
• Do not destroy or step on offerings (canang sari). These are small baskets made of palm leaves with flowers, rice or other food, and incense sticks. They are part of daily Balinese life. You’ll find them on sidewalks, in front of houses, in cars, and in shops. Be careful where you step; unintentionally destroying an offering is considered disrespectful.

Bali, Indonesia: 57 Best Things to Do and See

Let’s take a look at 57 places to see in Bali.

Ubud and Central Bali – the Spiritual Heart of the Island

The central part of Bali is a place where time has stood still. Among endless rice terraces and sacred jungle, you’ll find Ubud – a town that has become synonymous with Balinese spirituality and art. Here you’ll encounter authentic Bali, where every sunrise brings the sound of gamelan bells and the scent of incense from thousands of home shrines.

This area is ideal for those seeking peace and wanting to experience the true face of Balinese culture. Local villages awaken with crowing roosters, farmers in wide hats tend to their rice fields, and the air smells of jasmine and plumeria. It’s a place where you’ll realize why Bali is called the Island of the Gods.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

When you first see Tegallalang, you’ll understand why photographers from all over the world consider this place the most beautiful in Bali. Thousands of emerald green terraces wind along the hillsides like giant natural stairs leading up to the clouds. This 1000-year-old subak irrigation system is a masterpiece of engineering that still functions today without any modern technology.

Walk along the narrow dikes between the fields, where you’ll see farmers with hoes and golden grains on their backs. You can also try one of the iconic swings – the feeling of flying over the green terraces is unforgettable. The best light for photography is early morning or before sunset, when the entire valley is bathed in golden light.

Ubud Town

Ubud is not just a town; it’s a state of mind. Here, every alley hides a gallery with paintings by local artists, every other house is a yoga studio, and the air is filled with the sounds of Tibetan singing bowls and chanting mantras. In the center, you’ll find the Puri Saren Royal Palace, where descendants of the local royal family still live, and the traditional Pasar Ubud markets, where you can buy everything from fresh tropical fruit to wood carvings.

Monkey Forest

Monkey Forest is a sacred place with three ancient temples covered in moss and tropical vines. Among the beautiful banana trees and giant trees, over 700 macaques roam, having lived here for hundreds of years.

But be careful with your belongings; the local monkeys are incredibly clever and can steal your sunglasses, phone, water bottle, or even your entire backpack in seconds.

Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta Empul Temple is a place where you can literally wash away all your worries and start anew. Tirta Empul is the most sacred place for ritual purification in all of Bali. The water from the sacred springs is said to heal illnesses, remove bad karma, and bring inner peace.

The purification ritual is a powerful spiritual experience. You’ll put on a traditional sarong, enter the sacred water, and gradually immerse yourself under each of the 12 fountains. The water is cold, but afterward, you should feel a sense of inner peace.

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

The first glimpse of the entrance gate to this mysterious cave will take your breath away. Giant demonic mouths with bulging tongues and teeth look like a gateway to the underworld. This 1000-year-old sanctuary was carved directly into the rock and served both Buddhists and Hindus as a place of meditation and spiritual ceremonies.

Inside the cave, you’ll find statues of Ganesha and other Hindu deities illuminated only by the faint light that penetrates the narrow entrance.

Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring

Descending 300 steps through the dense tropical jungle is like a journey into a forgotten civilization. And when ten 7-meter royal tombs carved directly into the rock face appear before you, you’ll feel the same awe as explorers of ancient monuments.

These 11th-century shrines are dedicated to King Anak Wungsu and his family. It is one of the most breathtaking archaeological sites in Bali, where history touches nature.

Tegenungan Waterfall

If you’re new to Bali, Tegenungan will be your first introduction to the local waterfalls. It’s just a half-hour drive from Ubud and easily accessible.

The 30-meter waterfall plunges into a natural pool where you can swim in clean mountain water. The surrounding moss-covered rocks and tropical ferns create a fairytale view. However, come early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Coffee Plantations

A visit to a coffee plantation in Bali is more than just a coffee tasting. You’ll immerse yourself in the way of life of local farmers. You’ll walk among coffee trees, see the entire process from bean to cup, and learn interesting facts about the famous civet coffee, Kopi Luwak. You can also taste various types of teas and spices grown by locals.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

When you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Ubud, take this beautiful walk along the ridge. The narrow path winds between grassy hills, offering panoramic views of the jungle, rice fields, and distant mountains.

The best time is early morning or late afternoon, when the sun isn’t as strong and the landscape is bathed in golden light. The walk takes about an hour and ends in a small village where you can relax in a local cafe with a view of the valley.

North Bali – Land of Waterfalls and Tranquility

North Bali is a different world. Instead of heat and tourist crowds, you’ll find a cooler climate, fewer people, and the most beautiful waterfalls on the entire island. It’s an area for adventurers and nature lovers who aren’t afraid to go the extra mile for beauty. Black volcanic beaches, misty mountain lakes, and waterfalls hidden in the jungle all await you on the northern side of the island.

Sekumpul Waterfalls

When, after an hour-long jungle trek, you behold seven majestic waterfalls plunging from a height of over 80 meters into an emerald green valley, you’ll understand why Sekumpul is considered the most beautiful waterfall in Bali. Each cascade has its own personality; some fall straight down, while others fan out.

Banyumala Waterfalls

The twin Banyumala waterfalls are less known than Sekumpul, and that’s precisely what makes them so magical. Fewer tourists come here, so you have a better chance of enjoying this place in complete tranquility. The water cascades down a rock covered in moss and tropical plants into a crystal-clear pool.

Lovina Beach

Lovina Beach is famous for its black volcanic beach and, especially, for dolphin watching at sunrise. Every morning around 5 AM, traditional fishing boats depart from the small harbor, taking you directly among groups of wild dolphins.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Ulun Danu Beratan is one of Bali’s most iconic temples, dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water. It is most beautiful at sunrise, when the first rays of sun reflect on the calm surface and the temple mirrors in the water. Be prepared for cooler weather, as the temperature at this altitude is several degrees lower, and there are often mists from the surrounding mountains.

Danau Buyan Twin Lakes

Two beautiful mountain lakes surrounded by tropical rainforest are an ideal place to escape the tropical heat. The air here is cooler and cleaner, and a light mist often hovers over the surface.

The lakes are connected by a narrow channel, and you can walk along their shores on forest trails. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic, reading a book, or simply watching the play of light on the water. Locals here sell fresh tropical fruit and hot cocoa.

Handara Golf Resort

The famous entrance gates of the golf resort have become one of the most photographed places in Bali. Traditional Balinese architecture against the backdrop of green hills creates a beautiful view. Even if you’re not a golfer, it’s worth a visit. The entire resort is located in a beautiful mountain valley surrounded by forests and rice fields.

Gitgit Waterfall

The 35-meter Gitgit Waterfall is easily accessible from the main road between Bedugul and Singaraja, making it a perfect stop during a trip through the north of the island. The path to the waterfall leads along a well-maintained trail through tropical vegetation full of giant ferns and colorful orchids. The waterfall plunges into a natural pool where you can swim in clean mountain water.

Aling Aling Waterfall

For those seeking a bit more adrenaline, Aling Aling is the perfect choice. Besides the beautiful 35-meter waterfall, you can experience cliff jumping into deep pools, or a rope swing over the abyss.

There are waterfalls of various heights and difficulties, so everyone can find their own. The bravest can try a jump from 15 meters, while beginners can settle for safer 5-meter jumps. Local guides will teach you the correct technique and ensure safety.

East Bali – Land of Temples and Volcanic Beaches

The eastern part of Bali is the least tourist-affected area, and that’s precisely why it has its unique charm. On one side, you’ll find the island’s most sacred temples, and on the other, tranquil fishing villages with black volcanic beaches.

East Bali is ideal for those who want to experience authentic island life. Here you’ll meet fishermen heading out to sea before dawn, farmers working in their fields, and artisans creating traditional items using methods passed down through generations.

Besakih Temple

The complex of 23 temples scattered across the slopes of the sacred Mount Agung is the most sacred place in all of Bali. Locals call it the “Mother Temple”, and it is the center of Hindu faith on the island. Although entry inside is not permitted for tourists, the view from the outside is breathtaking.

The temples are built on six different levels, each with its specific function. The highest temple is dedicated to Shiva, the god of destruction and renewal. On clear days, you can see all the way to the ocean from here, but most often, the volcano’s peaks are shrouded in clouds.

Amed

The tranquil fishing town of Amed is worlds away from the bustling south of Bali. Black volcanic beaches, traditional jukung fishing boats, and an atmosphere where time stands still. It’s a place to go for peace and excellent snorkeling.

Coral reefs start right off the shore, and the underwater world here is amazing. You can see colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and with a bit of luck, even reef sharks. But the biggest attraction is the wreck of a Japanese ship from World War II, lying at a depth of 5-30 meters – it’s accessible even for beginner divers.

Tirta Gangga

Tirta Gangga is a magnificent water palace with pools, fountains, and stone water lilies, looking like a place from a fairy tale. The King of Karangasem had it built in 1946 as his summer residence, but today it is open to the public, and you can even swim in some of the pools.

The entire complex is a masterpiece of Balinese garden architecture. Water winds among stone statues, over bridges and fountains in perfect harmony. It’s most beautiful early in the morning when the first sunbeams reflect on the water’s surface, and the whole place is bathed in golden light.

Taman Ujung

The second of the royal water palaces offers an even more romantic atmosphere than Tirta Gangga. It is located on a hill with amazing views of the east coast, and the entire complex feels like a place from another world.

The palace was partially destroyed by an earthquake and a volcanic eruption, but it has been beautifully reconstructed. The combination of traditional Balinese and European architecture creates a unique atmosphere. It is less visited than other sights, so you can often enjoy relative peace here.

Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven)

The climb of 1700 steps to Bali’s oldest temple is quite a challenge, but the view that awaits you at the top is worth it. The iconic “Gate of Heaven” frames the majestic Mount Agung, and on clear days, you can see all the way to the ocean.

Lempuyang Temple is one of the six most sacred temples in Bali, and its history dates back over 1000 years. The atmosphere is mystical and powerful; locals come here to perform their most important rituals. Come early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the sunrise over Agung.

Virgin Beach (Bias Tugel)

This beach is the exact opposite of most Balinese beaches. Instead of black volcanic sand, you’ll find fine white sand and turquoise water reminiscent of the Maldives. It’s a bit hidden from the main roads, so even in high season, you’ll find relative peace here.

The beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs covered with tropical vegetation, and the whole atmosphere is very peaceful. Locals here offer fresh coconuts and grilled fish. It’s an ideal place for a full day of relaxation by the sea.

Padangbai

The port town of Padangbai is a starting point for ferries to Lombok and the Gili Islands, but it’s worth a visit on its own. It has two beautiful lagoons with crystal clear water and fresh seafood in local restaurants.

Blue Lagoon is popular for snorkeling. The coral reefs here are in good condition, and marine life is diverse. If you’re lucky, you might encounter sea turtles or small reef sharks. After snorkeling, you can enjoy freshly grilled fish right on the beach.

Tenganan Village

A traditional village of Bali’s indigenous people, where time stopped centuries ago. Locals belong to the pre-Hindu Bali Aga ethnic group and still live according to ancient traditions. They produce textiles using the gringsing technique, which is found nowhere else in the world.

Volcanoes and Mountains

Balinese volcanoes are more than just mountains; they are sacred places where, according to locals, gods reside. Climbing one of them is a spiritual journey as much as a physical challenge. When you stand at the summit and watch the sun emerge above the clouds, you’ll understand why locals revere these mountains so much.

Each volcano has its own energy and atmosphere. Batur is more accessible and popular, Agung is a challenge for experienced climbers. But both will offer unforgettable views and the feeling of being on the roof of the world.

Sunrise at Mount Batur

Climbing Mount Batur is one of those experiences that will change your perspective on life. The night trek starts around three in the morning, and after two hours of climbing, you’ll find yourself at the summit of the active volcano just as the sun emerges over the horizon.

The view is unforgettable; below you lies a crater lake, Mount Agung rises in the distance, and on clear days, you can see all the way to Lombok. Steam rises from some craters, reminding you that you are standing on an active volcano. Local guides often bring eggs and bananas, which they cook in the hot volcanic soil.

Mount Agung (Trek)

Bali’s highest mountain (3142 m) is a challenge only for experienced climbers in good physical condition. The ascent takes 6-7 hours and is physically and mentally demanding, but the view from the summit is among the most beautiful in the world.

The path leads through various climatic zones, from tropical vegetation at the base through mountain forests to bare volcanic slopes at the summit. The last 500 meters are the most challenging. The slope is very steep, and the soil is loose. But when you reach the summit and see all of Bali below you, all the effort will be worth it.

Kintamani

The area around Mount Batur offers some of the most beautiful views in all of Bali. From scenic restaurants, you can admire the crater with its lake, observe the volcano’s activity, and enjoy lunch with a panoramic view.

Local villages have preserved their traditional way of life. Locals grow vegetables in the volcanic soil, which is extremely fertile. You can visit one of the villages here and learn how life works near an active volcano.

Lake Batur

The crater lake near Mount Batur is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation. Local restaurants offer fresh fish prepared in all possible ways – grilled, fried, in curry, or soup. A specialty is fish raised directly in the lake.

The lake is also a starting point for climbing Mount Batur or for walks around the surrounding villages. The atmosphere is peaceful and the air clean, a complete contrast to the bustling south of the island.

South Bali and the Bukit Peninsula

The southern tip of Bali is a landscape of cliffs, hidden beaches, and perfect waves. Here you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s a kingdom for surfers, influencers, and anyone who loves the combination of adrenaline and stunning nature.

The Bukit Peninsula is drier and wilder than the rest of the island. Instead of rice fields, you’ll find savannas with acacia trees; instead of rivers, there are underground caves; and instead of calm beaches, there are cliffs with waves crashing against the rocks.

Uluwatu Temple

The temple is built on a 70-meter cliff above the turbulent ocean and is one of the most breathtaking places in Bali. The approach itself is an experience: you have to walk through a forest park full of monkeys, who are quite cheeky and like to steal anything shiny.

Padang Padang Beach

This small beach, hidden beneath the rocks, became famous thanks to the movie “Eat Pray Love” starring Julia Roberts. It’s therefore subject to a fee, and you have to squeeze through rock passages and descend narrow stairs to get there. Also, expect it to be crowded with people.

The beach is surrounded by high cliffs, and the waves here are ideal for surfing, and when you’re not surfing, you can relax at one of the beach bars built directly into the rocks. Be careful of the tide; at high tide, the beach almost disappears.

Nyang Nyang Beach

This is one of the most beautiful and least accessible beaches in Bali. The descent down a steep and sometimes dangerous path takes about 20 minutes and requires good fitness and sturdy shoes. But the reward is a pristine beach with white sand, where you’ll often be completely alone.

The beach stretches out beneath high cliffs and offers a feeling of complete separation from civilization. There are no restaurants or showers here, so you must bring everything you need with you.

Balangan Beach

This long white sand beach is popular among surfers worldwide, but non-surfers will also find something to enjoy here. Beach bars built on the cliffs offer amazing views and fresh coconuts straight from the palm tree.

There’s a typical surf culture here, where time is measured by the waves, not by the clock. You can learn to surf at one of the local schools or just watch how local pros handle the perfect waves.

Dreamland Beach

This beautiful beach, surrounded by limestone cliffs, offers perfect conditions for both surfing and swimming. The name “Dreamland” is not an exaggeration – white sand, turquoise water, and cliffs truly look like a dream.

You can spend the whole day here at the beach clubs on the beach with sunbeds, umbrellas, and great cuisine.

Bingin Beach

This small beach, accessible only by narrow staircases between the rocks, is home to some of Bali’s best surf spots. Warungs (local restaurants) built directly on the cliffs offer amazing views and fresh fish.

Suluban Beach

The beach, accessible only by crawling through caves in the cliffs, is an adventure in itself. You have to squeeze through narrow passages between the rocks, sometimes on all fours, but the result is worth the effort.

During low tide, a beautiful beach is revealed, ideal for relaxing and watching surfers. During high tide, the caves are flooded, and the beach is inaccessible, so timing your visit is important here. The local beach bar is hidden in the rock and offers cold Bintang (local beer) and fresh smoothies.

Pandawa Beach

This “hidden beach”, surrounded by high limestone cliffs, was long known only to locals. The access road leads directly through the cliff, a 30-meter hole drilled into the rock, which is remarkable in itself.

On the sides of the road stand statues of the five Pandawa brothers from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. The beach itself is long and wide with fine white sand. It is popular among families with children because the waves are not as strong as on other beaches in this area.

Garuda Wisnu Kencana

The monumental 121-meter statue of the Hindu god Vishnu on the mythical bird Garuda is the second-largest statue in the world. The cultural park offers not only a view of this amazing statue but also regular performances of traditional dances and panoramic views of all of South Bali.

The construction of the statue took over 20 years and is truly an impressive work. From the viewing platform at its base, you can see all the way to Java and Lombok. The park is also a venue for various cultural events and festivals.

West Bali

West Bali is a region of contrasts. On one side, you’ll find the island’s most photographed temple rising from the ocean; on the other, the last remaining jungle with rare animal species. It’s a place of sunsets that bid farewell to each day in Bali, and rice terraces so vast you could get lost in them for a whole day.

The area is less touristically developed than the south or center of the island, meaning you can still find authentic Balinese life here. Villages wake up to crowing roosters, farmers work in their fields, and in the evening, the air fills with the scent of incense from home shrines.

Tanah Lot

Bali’s most photographed temple, standing on a rocky islet in the ocean, is a symbol of the island. At low tide, you can walk to it across a rocky causeway; at high tide, it creates a perfect view of the temple surrounded by water and waves crashing against the rocks.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

The most extensive rice terrace system in Bali spans over 600 hectares across the slopes of Mount Batukaru. Jatiluwih, meaning “truly beautiful”, fully lives up to its name. It’s a place where you can walk for hours and keep discovering new views.

The terraces are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site as an example of the perfect connection between man and nature. The traditional subak irrigation system has been functioning for over a thousand years without any modern technology.

West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park protects the last remaining piece of original jungle on the island and is home to rare animal species, including the white Bali Myna (Rothschild’s Mynah), which is a symbol of the island. Only a few dozens remain in the wild, so if you spot one, it’s great luck.

The park offers jungle trekking routes where you can see wild boars, langurs, and countless species of tropical birds. On the coast, there are coral reefs with amazing underwater life, ideal for snorkeling and diving.

Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island in the national park is considered the best diving spot in all of Bali. The coral reefs here are in perfect condition – something that is unfortunately already a rarity in Bali. Marine life is amazing; you can see sharks, turtles, manta rays, and countless species of tropical fish.

The island is small and uninhabited, so the underwater world remains untouched. Various diving schools from Bali organize trips here, but you can also rent a boat and go on your own. Snorkeling here is excellent even directly from the shore.

Balian Beach

This tranquil black sand beach on the west coast is popular among surfers looking for an alternative to the crowded south of the island. The atmosphere is relaxed, prices are reasonable, and the waves are excellent for both beginners and experienced surfers.

There aren’t as many luxury resorts or opulent restaurants here, but you’ll find basic comforts. It’s a place for those who want to experience Bali without an over-stylized tourist atmosphere.

Medewi Beach

Another surfing gem on the west coast offers some of the longest waves in Bali. The waves here break very slowly and for a long time, so one ride can last several minutes.

The surrounding rice fields create a beautiful backdrop, and the whole atmosphere is very peaceful. It’s a place where surfing becomes meditation and where you can experience Bali as it was before mass tourism.

Nearby Islands

The islands around Bali are incredible. Just a short boat ride and you’ll find yourself in places where time has stood still. Each island has its own personality: Nusa Penida is wilder, Lembongan is more relaxed and friendly, and Ceningan is the smallest of them.

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is the largest of the islands near Bali and is home to the most dramatic and beautiful cliffs and nature. Kelingking Beach, with its T-Rex-shaped cliff, is one of the most photographed places in all of Indonesia, but Nusa Penida offers much more.

The island is wilder and less developed than Bali. Roads are often just dirt tracks, electricity works only occasionally, and the internet is weak. But that’s precisely its charm; it’s a place where you can disconnect from civilization and experience nature in its rawest form.

Angel’s Billabong

A natural pool formed by erosion in the coral reefs fills with crystal clear water at low tide. The result looks like a luxurious pool carved directly from the cliffs with an endless ocean view.

Swimming is only possible at low tide and in calm seas. At high tide, the waves are too strong and dangerous. Locals know the exact timing and can advise you on the best time to visit.

Broken Beach

A natural arch in the cliffs, formed by millennia of erosion, creates an amazing lagoon connected to the ocean by an underground cave. Even if you can’t swim here due to strong currents, the view of this natural architecture is unforgettable.

The spot is perfect for watching the sunset, when the sky turns all shades of orange and pink.

Nusa Lembongan

A smaller island with a relaxed atmosphere, it’s ideal for a break from the hustle and bustle of Bali. There are no cars here; transport relies on bicycles and scooters, and life revolves around the tides.

The mangrove forests on the north side of the island are amazing to explore by kayak. You can paddle through the mangrove roots, observe diverse marine life, and experience complete tranquility.

Nusa Ceningan

The smallest of the islands, connected to Lembongan by a bridge, offers adrenaline in the form of cliff jumping from the Yellow Bridge. Local young men perform their acrobatic stunts here, jumping from a 10-meter height into the sea.

The island has only a few hundred inhabitants and a couple of restaurants, but the atmosphere is unforgettable. It’s a place where you get to know everyone within a day, and where everyone gathers at the only beach bar in the evening.

Bali Facts

• Bali has over 20,000 temples – theoretically, you could visit a different temple every day for 55 years. Each has its unique architecture and spiritual energy.
• Once a year, the island completely shuts down for 24 hours. During the Nyepi holiday (Balinese New Year), no one is allowed to leave their home, planes don’t fly, cars don’t drive, and even electricity is not used. The entire island is in absolute silence.
• Balinese believe their island is a living organism and the mountains are its head. That’s why Mount Agung is considered sacred, and all major temples face it.
• The “subak” rice field irrigation system has been operating for over a thousand years without any modern technology.
• Hundreds of ceremonies are held daily in Bali. In front of every house, shop, and restaurant, you’ll find small baskets with flowers and rice; these are daily offerings to the gods.
• Monkeys in Bali are considered sacred, and in some temples, verses from Hindu texts are even read to them.

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