Bali is buzzing with energy this week! The island is alive with vibrant festivals, world-class waves are rolling in, and the food scene is hotter than ever. Get ready for an unforgettable Balinese adventure filled with cultural immersion, outdoor thrills, and culinary delights.
Catch some of Bali's most legendary waves at Uluwatu Beach. Known for its consistent swells and stunning clifftop views, it's a surfer's paradise. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are waves for everyone, with plenty of surf schools offering lessons.
Tip: Head there early in the morning to avoid the crowds and catch the best waves before the tide changes.
Embark on an unforgettable sunrise trek up Mount Batur, an active volcano. Witness breathtaking panoramic views as the sun rises over the island. Most tours include breakfast at the summit.
Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a jacket, as it can get chilly at the top.
Get your adrenaline pumping with a white water rafting adventure on the Ayung River. Navigate through exciting rapids, lush rainforest, and cascading waterfalls. This half-day tour includes hotel transfers and an Indonesian buffet lunch.
Tip: Wear waterproof sunscreen and bring a change of clothes, as you're guaranteed to get wet.
Take a day trip to Nusa Penida by fast boat to see Bali's breathtaking coastal views, such as Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, Angel's Billabong, and Crystal Bay. You can visit Manta Point, where you can swim with manta rays.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and bring a hat and sunscreen.
Indulge in Bali's most iconic dish, Babi Guling (suckling pig), at Warung Wardani in Denpasar. The pork is roasted until the skin crisps perfectly and stuffed with traditional Balinese spices, making every bite aromatic and flavorful. Served with rice, lawar (vegetable mix), and sambal, this is authentic Balinese food at its finest.
Tip: Arrive before noon, or you'll wait 30+ minutes. The warung is basic, but the food speaks for itself.
Enjoy a romantic beachfront dinner at Jimbaran Bay, known for its fresh seafood restaurants. Select your seafood, which will be grilled to perfection, and savor it as you watch the sunset over the ocean.
Tip: Go early to secure a good spot on the beach and haggle for the best price on your seafood.
Right on the beach with an infinity pool facing the ocean, The Lawn nails that Bali beach club vibe everyone's chasing. The menu covers Mediterranean and Asian fusion, with their wood-fired pizzas and fresh seafood being standouts. Portions are generous, and the sunset views make everything taste better.
Tip: I come here for lazy Sunday brunches when I want to feel like I'm on vacation (even though I live here!).
If you're a vegan and want to tuck into 100% plant-based Indonesian food, then Dua Hati is a great place for you to visit. At Dua Hati, you'll find Indonesian and Balinese favorites like satay, nasi goreng, and bakso.
Tip: Most vegan restaurants in Canggu offer the usual salad bowls and wraps but Dua Hati was one of the few that offered mostly local dishes.
Experience the ultimate beach club vibes at FINNS in Canggu, the epicenter of daily beach club energy. Featuring resident and international DJs from midday until late, it is the best party spot on the island.
Tip: Get there early to secure a sunbed and enjoy the sunset with a cocktail in hand.
For a more intimate and intense clubbing experience, head to Vault. Located below ground, it strips nightlife down to its essentials: a dark room, a powerful sound system, and carefully curated electronic music.
Tip: Check their schedule for techno and minimal house DJs; this spot is known as one of the most authentic clubbing experiences in Bali.
Enjoy sunset cocktails with a view of a unique rock formation on the beach at Rock Bar @ Ayana in Uluwatu. While this is a pricey spot, it is awesome for sunset cocktails.
Tip: Dress code is smart casual and arrive early to avoid long queues.
Get ready for a night full of laughter at Secret Comedy Night — Bali's top-rated stand-up comedy show. Held at intimate venues across Bali, including Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak, and Uluwatu, this is one of the most fun things to do in Bali at night. Expect surprises, crowd work, and a truly unforgettable live comedy experience.
Tip: Check the listings for locations and showtimes.
Witness the mesmerizing Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple, set against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset. This traditional Balinese performance combines dance, acapella, fire, and theatrical flair for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Tip: Book your tickets in advance, as this is a popular show that sells out quickly.
Visit Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung, the official home of the Ubud royal family. Explore the palace's gorgeous tangle of ornate courtyards, gardens, and gates. You might get to meet a few members of the family too, if you're lucky.
Tip: Dress modestly when visiting the palace.
Immerse yourself in Balinese art and culture at the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) in Ubud. Founded by Agung Rai, it includes galleries, performance spaces, gardens, and workshops. You can view works by Lempad, Ida Bagus Made, and even Indonesian national icons like Raden Saleh.
Tip: Check out the daily dance rehearsals and craft classes.
Bathe in the holy water at Pura Tirta Empul, one of the most important water temples in Bali. With its sacred springs filled with holy water said to boast magical, purifying properties, the best way to test this, of course, is to try it for yourself!
Tip: Be sure to dress appropriately and respect the local customs.
Enjoy a refreshing morning walk along the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud. This paved trail takes you through lush greenery and offers stunning views of the river valley and the Gunung Lebah Temple.
Tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon when it is cooler.
Spend a day relaxing on Bali's beautiful beaches. The beaches of Tuban, Kuta, Sanur and Nusa Dua have footpaths that allow for leisure walks. Kuta and Seminyak are the heart of the island's tourist scene, complete with resorts, restaurants and beach clubs.
Tip: Bring a sarong to sit on and enjoy the sunset.
Immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and sounds of Bali's local markets. Stroll from stall to stall, check out exotic produce and local arts and crafts. Pasar Sindhu Night Market and Kuta Night Market are both popular options for an evening of sensory delights.
Tip: Practice your bargaining skills and be prepared to haggle for the best price.
Visit Pura Taman Saraswati, fronted by a stunning lotus-filled pond. Located behind Café Lotus in central Ubud, this water temple, built in traditional Balinese style in 1952, can be accessed via a stone walkway decorated with Hindu sculptures.
Tip: Inquire locally about evening dance performances, which are staged here regularly.
Spend a day of fun and excitement at Waterbom Bali, one of Asia's best waterparks. With slides and pools for all ages, it's a guaranteed hit with the whole family.
Tip: Get your tickets online in advance to avoid the queues.
Get up close and personal with animals from around the world at Bali Safari and Marine Park in Gianyar. Enjoy animal encounters and educational shows.
Tip: Check the schedule for showtimes and animal feeding sessions.
Participate in a heartwarming experience by releasing baby turtles into the sea. Several conservation centers in Bali offer this activity, allowing you and your children to contribute to the preservation of these endangered creatures.
Tip: Check with local organizations for release schedules.
Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, a beautiful jungle temple complex that is a guaranteed hit with kids of all ages. Be cautious of the cheeky monkeys!
Tip: Keep your belongings secure and avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys.
Take your family to one of Bali's many waterfalls. Tegenungan and Gitgit waterfalls are popular options where children can splash in the cool water and enjoy the lush jungle surroundings.
Tip: Our favourite waterfall in Bali is without a doubt the Gembleng. The views are amazing, there are different small pools where kids can play and swim and, at least until last year (2023) it wasn't too crowded.