Things to Do in Bali

What to Do in Bali

As a popular island in Indonesia, there are countless things to do in Bali. Sunrise hiking at Mount Batur shows off the island’s breathtaking landscape. While partying and afternoon drinks at the beach clubs in Seminyak sound like fun things to do in Bali, you can also try water sports in Nusa Dua. Witnessing the Kecak Dance in Uluwatu is certainly part of Balinese culture you shouldn’t miss. Looking for other cool things to do in Bali? Try diving and snorkelling in East Bali to explore its underwater beauty.

1. Iconic Temples to Visit

Aside from being religious sites, some of the important temples in Bali are set in scenic locations. Uluwatu Temple sits at the top of the Uluwatu Cliff, offering a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean. Tanah Lot nestles on a rock in the ocean and can only be visited during low tide. Besakih is the most important temple in Bali, perched 1,000 metres up the slope of Mount Agung. Visiting the temples should definitely be part of your Bali itinerary.

Each temple has specific functions in Balinese culture. Ulun Danu Beratan is a water temple, while Tanah Lot Temple in northwest Bali is a sea temple in honour of the Gods of the Sea.

Although it’s one of the key things to do in Bali, before your visit, make sure that no ceremonies are taking place. On some important dates, the temples are closed to the public. The entrance fee varies between temples, ranging from IDR 50K to 75K. You also need to wear a sarong and appropriate clothes before entering the temple area.

2. Breathtaking Rice Terraces

The rice terraces in Bali are known for their unique irrigation system. Subak has existed since the 9th century and has become part of Balinese identity. Visiting Tegallalang Rice Terraces, located north of Ubud, has become one of the preferred things to do in Bali. You can trek there to admire the layered rice terraces, which make for a great photo.

In 2012, subak was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Five central and north Bali sites showcase the connection between nature, culture and religion. Those five sites are Jatiluwih, Lake Batur, Taman Ayun Water Temple, Ulun Danu Batur Temple, and Pakerisan River.

The best time to visit is during the planting, which happens in the wet season from November to March. You can catch the beautiful mist hovering over the bright green lush rice fields in the early morning, perfect as a backdrop to snap your photos. The rice fields have been popular spots for pre-wedding photos too. Get ready to see couples celebrating during your visit!

3. Relaxing Beaches for Sunbathing

One of the top things to do in Bali is explore the beaches. Surrounded by water, it’s easy to see why the beach is everyone’s favourite. If you don’t know what to do in Bali, going to the beach is always an option. There is a reason why Bali is famous for its beaches, as there is always something to do and see.

Seminyak and Canggu, with a row of beachfront restaurants and beach clubs, are perfect for sunset and afternoon drinks. If sunbathing and surfing are on your list, you can never go wrong with the beaches in south Bali, such as Uluwatu and Jimbaran.

While relaxing on the sunbeds in Nusa Dua, don’t miss the chance to enjoy water sports like banana boat rides. East Bali has some fantastic black sandy beaches, while Sanur Beach is family-friendly for cycling, walking and swimming.

Visiting beaches is one of the absolute best things to do in Bali. With many cafés and restaurants, you can spend a day on the beach in Bali without feeling bored.

4. Hiking and Trekking Trails

If adventure is on your itinerary during your visit to Bali, then hiking or trekking the volcanoes is necessary. Mount Batur Sunrise Hike is possibly the most popular and one of the best things to do in Bali. You need to get up after midnight and take a trip to Mount Batur in the Bangli Regency in North Bali. The Mount Batur trek is relatively flat and anyone with a different fitness level can reach the summit without a problem.

Campuhan Ridge Walk is another popular trail in Bali. The trek is about two kilometres of flat track surrounded by Ubud’s lush hills and greenery. Campuhan Ridge Walk is great for morning or afternoon walks when the weather is not too hot.

The only time to avoid hiking Mount Batur is during the wet season, as the weather is unpredictable. Although a guide is no longer mandatory, we recommend hiring one for safety.

5. Snorkelling and Diving Spots

Bali is also an excellent destination for underwater activities. Whether snorkelling or diving is your preference, there are many spots in Bali that you can explore, especially in East Bali. Amed, Tulamben and Nusa Penida are three popular diving and snorkelling sites with stunning marine ecosystems. If you’re a marine enthusiast, diving and snorkelling are certainly on the list of things to do in Bali.

Tulamben has a USAT Liberty Wreck, while the Japanese Ship Wreck is the main attraction in Amed. Aside from these wrecks, the underwater paradise in Bali boasts diverse marine life. From mola-mola fish and different species of coral reefs with striking colours to giant reef mantas, you can see them all in Bali.

There are various dive and snorkelling packages you can take. Prices range from USD 200 to USD 600, depending on the locations and how many dives you want to have. You can also get your dive certifications in Bali, as some dive centres provide this service.

6. Traditional Balinese Dance Performances

Whether in the traditional village or the city, dance is part of the ritual in Balinese ceremonies. Though often performed by female dancers, Balinese dances like Kecak are primarily performed by men. Kecak is a dance inspired by the story of Ramayana, with the help of Hanuman, to fight the evil king Ravana to save Sita.

The Kecak Dance show is famously performed at Uluwatu Temple. With the sunset as a backdrop, watching the show is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bali. You can also catch the performance at GWK and Pura Dalem Taman Kaja in Ubud. The ticket fee costs IDR 100K–IDR 150K.

Legong Dance is famous for its intricate fingers, eyes and foot movements. It used to be performed by young girls who had yet to reach puberty, but now it is danced by women of all ages. You can see the Legong performance at the Ubud Palace every evening. The entrance fee is IDR 100K.

7. Family-Friendly Activities in Bali

Bali can be a fantastic destination for a family holiday. There are various attractions and unique things to do in Bali for kids. One of the spots to enjoy with kids is Waterbom in Kuta. With different rides and attractions, Waterbom is a great place for families. What’s excellent about Waterbom Bali is that they have either a single or two-day pass you can purchase. Who doesn’t enjoy two days of fun playing in the water?

Bali Safari Park in Gianyar Regency is the place for your kids to learn about more than a thousand fauna, including exotic animals. The park is more than just a safari; it is also a wildlife conservation in Indonesia. Among the animals at the park, your kids can have a fun educational experience about endangered animals like orangutans, Sumatran elephants, and Bali starling birds. Purchasing the ticket online is a convenient way to save time!

8. Day Trips from Bali

When visiting Bali, island hopping may not be the first thing on your mind. But you should consider a day trip to Nusa Penida. At Nusa Penida, you can snorkel, dive, or visit the iconic Kelingking and Diamond Beach. You can leave from Sanur on a fast boat from PenidaGo and return on the same day, or stay for a few days.

Java and Gili Islands are the best of Bali’s neighbouring islands to explore if you want to venture outside of Bali. You can visit the Blue Flame at Ijen Crater or the Bromo Mountain in East Java. The three Gili Islands are perfect for a weekend getaway. You can party at Gili Trawangan, relax in Gili Air’s quietness, and learn more about the local community at Gili Meno.

There are only two ways to visit Java: by plane or ferry. A ferry takes longer than a plane, but it offers a sense of adventure. If you’re visiting the Gili Islands, your options are a ferry or fast boat. The fast boat from Gili Ferries takes about 3.5 hours compared to 6 hours by ferry.