Top Things to Do in Bali – Beaches, Temples, Culture & Adventure

Bali isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that awakens the soul. Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant culture, spiritual traditions, and welcoming people, Bali has captured the hearts of millions. From the surfing waves of Kuta to the tranquil temples of Ubud, this Indonesian gem offers something for every type of traveler.
 

Let me guide you through Bali like a local—with all the insights you need for a memorable journey.

📍 Where Is Bali?

Bali is one of over 17,000 islands in Indonesia, located between Java and Lombok. It’s easily accessible via Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), also known as Denpasar Airport, which serves as the gateway to the island.

🌍 Country: Indonesia

🛫 Main airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)

🗺️ Regions: South Bali (beaches), Central Bali (culture), North Bali (volcanoes), East Bali (diving), West Bali (national park), and offshore islands (like Nusa Penida)

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Bali

Dry Season (April to October): Ideal for beaches, sightseeing, and festivals

Wet Season (November to March): Fewer crowds, lush scenery, great for spa retreats

Peak Tourist Times: July–August and December holidays

🌊 Top Destinations in Bali

1. Ubud – Cultural Heart

Famous for rice terraces, wellness retreats, yoga, and art

Visit Monkey Forest, Tirta Empul Temple, and Campuhan Ridge Walk

Great for couples, solo travelers, and spiritual seekers

2. Seminyak – Chic Coastal Living

Trendy boutiques, beach clubs, and upscale resorts

Great for nightlife, dining, and sunset views

Visit Potato Head Beach Club and Seminyak Square

3. Uluwatu – Cliffside Views & Surf

Iconic Uluwatu Temple perched on a cliff

Known for world-class surfing and dramatic sunsets

Don’t miss the Kecak fire dance performance at sunset

4. Canggu – Surfer's Haven

A favorite for digital nomads and young travelers

Surf schools, smoothie bowls, and hipster cafes

Visit Echo Beach and Tanah Lot Temple nearby

5. Nusa Dua – Luxury & Family Resorts

Ideal for families and honeymooners

Calm beaches, water sports, and 5-star hotels

Home to the Bali Collection shopping complex

6. Amed & Tulamben – Dive Paradise

Quiet fishing villages in East Bali

Excellent for diving and snorkeling (especially USS Liberty wreck)

Explore Mount Agung’s foothills

7. Nusa Islands – Off the Beaten Path

Includes Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan

Dramatic cliffs, blue lagoons, and manta ray snorkeling

Day trips or overnight stays recommended

⛩️ Cultural & Historical Attractions

1. Besakih Temple

The largest and holiest temple complex in Bali, located on Mount Agung’s slope.

2. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

A picturesque water temple on Lake Beratan in Bedugul—perfect for photos.

3. Tirta Empul

Famous for its holy spring water and purification rituals.

4. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Ancient sanctuary with unique rock carvings and a mysterious bathing pool.

5. Bali Museum & Art Galleries (Denpasar/Ubud)

Get insights into Balinese history, sculpture, dance, and painting traditions.

🏄 Adventure & Nature Activities

Surfing: Kuta, Uluwatu, Canggu

Snorkeling & Diving: Menjangan Island, Amed, Nusa Penida

Volcano Trekking: Mount Batur sunrise hike

Rafting: Ayung River (near Ubud)

Cycling Tours: Through rice fields and traditional villages

Jungle ATV Rides: Popular in Ubud’s outskirts

Canyoning & Waterfalls: Gitgit, Sekumpul, Tegenungan

🧘 Wellness & Spiritual Escapes

Bali is known worldwide for its yoga and wellness retreats. If you’re looking to reset, these are some of the best:

The Yoga Barn (Ubud) – Holistic classes and healing

Fivelements Retreat – Eco-luxury healing resort

Floating Leaf Eco-Luxury Retreat – Meditation, detox, and spa

Many spas offer Balinese massage, flower baths, and energy healing.

🍽️ Balinese Cuisine to Try

Must-Try Dishes

Babi Guling: Spiced suckling pig

Bebek Betutu: Slow-cooked duck in banana leaves

Lawar: Spiced minced meat with coconut

Sate Lilit: Balinese skewered fish/meat

Nasi Campur: Mixed rice with a variety of sides

Jaja Bali: Traditional Balinese sweets and cakes

Popular Dining Spots

Locavore (Ubud) – Innovative fine dining

Motel Mexicola (Seminyak) – Lively Mexican vibes

Warung Ibu Oka (Ubud) – Famous for babi guling

Sardine (Seminyak) – Elegant rice field views

La Brisa (Canggu) – Boho beach club experience

🛍️ What to Buy in Bali

Handmade Batik and Ikat textiles

Silver jewelry (Celuk Village)

Balinese wood carvings and masks

Rattan bags and baskets

Essential oils, incense, and spa products

Coffee and spices (especially Luwak Coffee)

Visit Ubud Art Market, Sukawati Market, and Kumbasari Market in Denpasar.

🏨 Where to Stay in Bali

Luxury Resorts

Four Seasons Bali at Sayan (Ubud)

AYANA Resort and Spa (Jimbaran)

The Mulia (Nusa Dua)

Mid-Range Hotels

Tegal Sari (Ubud)

Tijili Seminyak

Alila Manggis (East Bali)

Budget-Friendly

The Island Hotel (Legian)

In Da Lodge (Ubud)

Bali Bobo Hostel (Jimbaran)

🚖 Transportation in Bali

Scooter rental: Budget-friendly but requires caution

Private driver: Ideal for day trips and sightseeing

Taxis: Blue Bird is reliable; avoid unlicensed taxis

Apps: Use Grab or Gojek (some areas restrict usage)

Public transport: Limited outside of Denpasar

💡 Local Travel Tips

Always wear a sarong when entering temples

Avoid touching offerings placed on the ground

Use cash in markets and small warungs

Stay hydrated—don’t drink tap water

Pack light, breathable clothes and reef-safe sunscreen

Be aware of traffic congestion, especially in South Bali

📸 Top Instagram Spots

Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven)

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Bali Swings in Ubud

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Handara Gate

Nusa Penida’s Kelingking Beach

🏁 Final Thoughts

Bali is more than a tropical escape—it’s a place of balance, beauty, and transformation. Whether you’re surfing the waves, meditating in a jungle retreat, tasting spicy Balinese dishes, or witnessing a temple ceremony at sunset, the island touches your heart in unforgettable ways.

This is not just a trip—it’s a journey into the soul of Indonesia.