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10 Best Things to Do in Bali: Experiences, Places & Travel Tips

May 6, 2025 13 Min Read

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10 Best Things to Do in Bali: Temples, Beaches, Culture & Adventure

Bali is one of those destinations that offers something different for almost every type of traveler.

Some visitors come for the beaches and sunsets. Others come for ancient temples, traditional ceremonies, wellness retreats, adventure activities, or the island’s famous food culture.

What makes Bali special is the combination of natural landscapes and local traditions. You can explore rice terraces in the morning, visit a centuries-old temple in the afternoon, and watch the sunset over the ocean in the evening.

The best Bali experiences are not limited to famous tourist spots. The island rewards travelers who slow down and explore beyond the most popular locations.

Bali’s official tourism resources highlight the island’s mix of beaches, cultural heritage, temples, traditional arts, food and outdoor experiences.

This guide covers the best things to do in Bali, whether you are visiting for the first time, planning a couple’s trip, traveling with family, or looking for a more local experience.

If you’re still deciding where to go next, explore our guide to 15 bucket list travel destinations compared by budget and travel style to find ideas for your next trip.

1. Explore Ubud: Bali’s Cultural Heart

If you want to experience a different side of Bali beyond beaches, start with Ubud.

Located in the island’s central highlands, Ubud is known for its art, traditional culture, forests, temples, wellness experiences and surrounding rice terraces.

The area is especially popular for:

Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Traditional Balinese dance performances
Art markets
Cooking classes
Yoga and wellness retreats
Jungle scenery

Ubud is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions because it gives travelers easy access to temples, waterfalls and countryside landscapes.

Official tourism information describes Ubud as a center for Balinese arts, culture and surrounding natural scenery.

Best things to do in Ubud:

Visit Tegallalang Rice Terraces

The famous terraces are one of Bali’s most recognizable landscapes.

Visit early in the morning if you want cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Explore Ubud Art Market

This is a good place to find:

Handmade crafts
Traditional textiles
Artwork
Souvenirs

Remember that bargaining is common in many markets, but it should always be done respectfully.

Visit Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The forest combines nature, temples and wildlife.

Follow local rules, avoid feeding animals without permission, and keep personal belongings secure.

Travelers looking for relaxation can also explore Bali’s wellness culture, which connects naturally with the growing interest in wellness-focused travel. Read our guide on 7 Wellness Travel Trends to Watch for more inspiration.

2. Visit Bali’s Famous Temples

Bali’s temples are active places of worship and an important part of local religious and cultural life. Visiting them offers an opportunity to learn more about Balinese traditions, but it is important to approach these sites respectfully.

Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, and Besakih Temple are among Bali’s well-known religious landmarks. Each has its own setting and significance, from coastal temples overlooking the ocean to sacred sites connected with the island’s spiritual traditions.

Temple Etiquette for Visitors

Wear clothing that follows the temple’s dress requirements.
Use a sarong if required.
Respect ceremonies and people who are praying.
Follow signs and instructions from temple staff.
Ask permission before photographing people during religious activities.

Before visiting religious sites abroad, it helps to understand local customs. Our guide to 10 cultural traditions travelers should know explains why cultural awareness matters when exploring a new destination.

Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most recognizable coastal temples.

Built on a rocky formation surrounded by the ocean, it is especially popular around sunset when the temple creates a dramatic view against the sea.

Indonesia Travel describes Tanah Lot as one of Bali’s iconic sea temples and a major cultural attraction.

Best time to visit:

Late afternoon for sunset
Earlier morning for fewer visitors

You can learn more about Tanah Lot’s history and visitor information through the official Indonesia Travel guide.

Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple sits dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Many visitors combine their temple visit with the famous Kecak dance performance, which takes place near sunset.

The location is especially popular because it combines cultural experience with ocean views.

Tips for visiting temples in Bali:

Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees
Use a sarong where required
Respect ongoing ceremonies
Ask before photographing people during religious activities

3. Enjoy Bali’s Beaches

Bali has many beaches, but each area offers a different experience.

Instead of trying to visit every beach, choose locations that match your travel style.

Seminyak

Good for:

Restaurants
Beach clubs
Shopping
Sunset views

Sanur

Good for:

Families
Relaxed mornings
Calmer beach atmosphere

Uluwatu

Good for:

Surfing
Cliff views
Dramatic sunsets

Nusa Dua

Good for:

Resorts
Relaxation
Travelers looking for a quieter stay

Bali’s official tourism resources highlight the island’s beaches as one of its major attractions, alongside culture and nature experiences.

4. Watch the Sunset at Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple sits on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, making it a popular place to watch the sunset in Bali. The elevated coastal setting offers sweeping ocean views, especially as the sky changes color in the late afternoon.

Many visitors combine their visit with the traditional Kecak dance performance held near the temple. Watching the performance around sunset can add a cultural experience to an evening spent exploring Bali’s southern coast.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

Arrive early: Allow time to enter the temple grounds and explore the viewpoints before sunset.
Check performance details: Confirm the current Kecak dance schedule, ticket availability, and entry requirements before your visit.
Protect your belongings: Monkeys in the area may grab loose items such as sunglasses, hats, and phones.
Stay on designated paths: Be cautious near cliff edges, particularly when the area is crowded.
Allow extra travel time: Traffic in southern Bali can affect how long it takes to reach the temple.

Is Uluwatu Worth Visiting?

Uluwatu is worth considering if you enjoy coastal scenery, cultural performances, and sunset photography. You can also combine it with nearby beaches, provided you allow enough time to travel between locations.

For destination information and visitor guidance, check the Indonesia Travel website before your visit.

5. Take a Day Trip to the Nusa Islands

If you want to experience a quieter side of Bali, consider adding the nearby Nusa Islands to your itinerary.

The three main islands are:

Nusa Penida
Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Ceningan

Each island offers a different experience.

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is known for dramatic coastal landscapes, cliffs and viewpoints.

Popular locations include:

Kelingking Beach viewpoint
Diamond Beach
Angel’s Billabong
Broken Beach

The island is beautiful, but travelers should remember that some viewpoints involve steep roads, uneven paths and longer travel times.

Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan has a more relaxed atmosphere.

It is popular for:

Snorkeling
Beach cafes
Clear water
Cycling
Relaxing away from Bali’s busier areas

Nusa Ceningan

The smallest of the three islands is connected to Nusa Lembongan by a yellow bridge and is known for:

Ocean viewpoints
Small beaches
Adventure activities

Bali’s official tourism information recognizes Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and other surrounding islands as important parts of Bali’s natural attractions.

Travel Tip:

Do not try to visit every location in one day.

A rushed day trip can become mostly transportation. If possible, staying overnight gives you more time to enjoy the islands.

Best for:

Adventure travelers
Beach lovers
Photography
Snorkeling

6. Try Traditional Balinese Food

Food is one of the easiest ways to experience Bali’s culture.

While Bali has many international restaurants, local dishes offer a better connection to the island’s traditions and ingredients.

Some foods worth trying include:

Nasi Campur Bali

A mixed rice dish usually served with different side dishes, vegetables, meat, and sambal.

Babi Guling

A traditional Balinese roasted pork dish prepared with local spices.

Ayam Betutu

Slow-cooked chicken with a rich blend of herbs and spices.

Sate Lilit

A Balinese-style satay made by wrapping seasoned meat around a bamboo stick.

Lawar

A traditional dish combining vegetables, coconut and other ingredients.

Indonesia’s official tourism information highlights Balinese cuisine as an important part of the island’s cultural experience, including dishes such as babi guling, ayam betutu and lawar.

Where to try Balinese food:

Local warungs
Traditional markets
Family restaurants
Cooking classes

Travelers who enjoy discovering local dishes should also explore our guide to 15 Asian Street Foods to Try: A Traveler’s Guide to What to Eat, which covers more food experiences across Asia.

7. Visit Bali’s Waterfalls

Bali is not only about beaches and temples.

The island’s interior is filled with waterfalls surrounded by forests, rivers and hiking trails.

Some popular waterfalls include:

Tegenungan Waterfall

One of the easier waterfalls to visit, especially for travelers staying near Ubud or southern Bali.

Good for:

First-time visitors
Photography
Short visits

Sekumpul Waterfall

Often considered one of Bali’s most impressive waterfalls.

The journey usually involves more walking, so it suits travelers looking for a more active experience.

Gitgit Waterfall

Located in northern Bali, Gitgit is a good option if you are exploring areas away from the main tourist zones.

Tips before visiting waterfalls:

Wear shoes with good grip
Bring water
Check weather conditions
Be prepared for stairs and uneven paths

Bali’s tourism resources highlight the island’s natural attractions beyond beaches, including waterfalls, forests and mountain landscapes.

Best for:

Nature lovers
Photographers
Adventure travelers

8. Try Adventure Activities in Bali

Bali offers activities for travelers who want more than sightseeing.

Depending on your comfort level, you can try:

Mount Batur Sunrise Hike

Watching sunrise from Mount Batur is one of Bali’s most popular outdoor experiences.

The hike usually starts early in the morning and requires reasonable fitness because of the uphill climb.

White Water Rafting

The Ayung River near Ubud is popular for rafting experiences.

It can be a fun group activity and a different way to see Bali’s landscapes.

Surf Lessons

Bali is famous for surfing, and areas such as Kuta are popular for beginners.

Snorkeling and Diving

The waters around Bali and nearby islands offer opportunities to explore marine life.

Travel Tip:

Choose activities based on your experience level. Some locations may look easy online but involve physical challenges, weather conditions or strong currents.

Best for:

Active travelers
Couples
Families with older children
Adventure seekers

9. Experience Bali’s Wellness Culture

Bali has become well known for wellness travel, combining nature, relaxation and traditional practices.

Popular wellness experiences include:

Yoga classes
Traditional Balinese massages
Meditation sessions
Spa treatments
Wellness retreats

Ubud is especially popular for travelers interested in slower-paced experiences surrounded by nature.

This connects naturally with the growing interest in wellness-focused travel.

For more inspiration, read our guide: 7 Wellness Travel Trends to Watch.

Best for:

Solo travelers
Couples
Relaxation trips
Longer stays

10. Experience Bali Like a Local

One of the best ways to enjoy Bali is to move beyond the busiest tourist areas.

A more local experience may include:

Visiting traditional villages
Exploring local markets
Taking a cooking class
Learning about Balinese ceremonies
Supporting small local businesses

Responsible travel is especially important in popular destinations like Bali.

Small choices can make a difference:

Respect temple customs
Reduce unnecessary plastic use
Support local businesses
Avoid activities that harm wildlife
Follow local guidelines

For more ideas on responsible travel, read:

Practical Sustainable Travel Tips: How to Travel More Responsibly

Best Time to Visit Bali

Bali can be visited throughout the year, but weather conditions can affect your experience.

Dry Season (Generally April–October)

Usually preferred for:

Beaches
Outdoor activities
Hiking
Island trips

Rainy Season (Generally November–March)

You may experience:

More rainfall
Green landscapes
Fewer visitors in some areas

However, rain does not necessarily mean your entire trip will be affected. Showers are often short, and conditions vary throughout the island.

The best time depends on your travel style.

Choose dry season if you want:

More predictable outdoor conditions
Beach days
Hiking
Island trips

Choose rainy season if you prefer:

Fewer crowds
Greener scenery
Potentially lower accommodation prices

Bali Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

1. Plan Your Location Carefully

Bali may look small on a map, but traffic can make journeys much longer than expected.

Consider staying in different areas depending on your plans:

Ubud → culture and nature
Uluwatu → beaches and sunsets
Seminyak → restaurants and nightlife
Sanur → relaxed beach atmosphere

2. Respect Local Culture

Bali is a place where religion and daily life are closely connected.

Remember:

Dress appropriately at temples
Follow photography rules
Respect ceremonies
Avoid entering restricted areas

3. Carry Some Cash

Cards are accepted in many tourist areas, but smaller restaurants, markets and local businesses may prefer cash.

4. Be Careful With Transport

Common options include:

Private drivers
Ride-hailing apps
Scooter rental

If renting a scooter, make sure you are comfortable riding in Bali’s traffic conditions.

5. Pack for Different Experiences

For Bali, consider bringing:

Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear
Light clothing
Sun protection
Rain jacket
Reusable water bottle
Temple-appropriate clothing

For a broader international packing guide:

International Travel Packing Checklist: What to Pack for Your First Trip Abroad.

How Many Days Do You Need in Bali?

The ideal length of a Bali trip depends on what you want to experience.

Bali may look like a small island, but traffic, weather and travel time between areas can make a big difference.

Trying to see everything in just a few days often results in spending more time in transportation than actually enjoying the destination.

Here are some practical options:

3–5 Days in Bali

A short trip works best if you focus on one area.

Suggested plan:

Day 1:

Seminyak or Canggu beaches
Sunset dinner

Day 2:

Uluwatu Temple
Kecak dance
Beach visit

Day 3:

Ubud day trip
Rice terraces
Local market

Best for:

Short vacations
Stopovers
Travelers with limited time

7 Days in Bali

One week allows you to experience a good mix of culture, nature and beaches.

Example itinerary:

Days 1–2: Ubud

Explore:

Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Monkey Forest
Local markets
Waterfalls

Days 3–4: Uluwatu or Southern Bali

Explore:

Uluwatu Temple
Beaches
Sunset viewpoints

Days 5–7: Flexible Days

Choose:

Nusa Penida day trip
Wellness activities
Food experiences
Relaxing beach time

10–14 Days in Bali

A longer trip gives you time to explore slower.

You can include:

Ubud
Uluwatu
Seminyak
Sanur
Nusa Islands
Northern Bali
More local villages

A slower itinerary often creates a better experience because Bali is best enjoyed without constantly rushing between attractions.

Sample Bali Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Check into accommodation
Explore nearby restaurants
Watch sunset
Rest after your flight

Day 2: Ubud Culture Day

Visit:

Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Ubud Market
Monkey Forest
Traditional performances

Day 3: Temples and Nature

Visit:

Tirta Empul Temple
Waterfalls
Local villages

Day 4: Uluwatu Experience

Visit:

Uluwatu Temple
Cliff viewpoints
Kecak dance
Sunset dinner

Day 5: Beach Day

Choose:

Nusa Dua
Sanur
Seminyak
Uluwatu beaches

Day 6: Nusa Penida Day Trip

Explore:

Coastal viewpoints
Beaches
Snorkeling spots

Day 7: Relax and Departure

Use your final day for:

Shopping
Spa treatment
Local food
Relaxing before your flight

Common Mistakes First-Time Visitors Make in Bali

Bali is welcoming, but a little preparation can make your trip much smoother.

1. Trying to Visit Too Many Places

One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is planning unrealistic daily schedules.

A trip that looks simple on a map can take much longer because of traffic.

Instead of visiting five places in one day, choose fewer experiences and enjoy them properly.

2. Staying in Only One Area

Different parts of Bali offer completely different experiences.

For example:

Ubud → culture, forests and nature
Uluwatu → beaches and cliffs
Seminyak → restaurants and nightlife
Sanur → relaxed atmosphere

Moving between areas can help you experience more of the island.

3. Ignoring Temple Etiquette

Bali’s temples are active religious places.

Visitors should:

Dress respectfully
Follow local rules
Avoid disturbing ceremonies
Ask before photographing people

A respectful traveler usually has a more meaningful experience.

4. Underestimating Travel Time

A 20-minute distance on a map may take much longer during busy traffic periods.

Leave extra time, especially when:

Going to the airport
Visiting popular attractions
Traveling between different regions

5. Treating Bali Only as a Beach Destination

Bali’s beaches are beautiful, but the island offers much more.

Many travelers enjoy Bali most when they combine:

Culture
Food
Nature
Temples
Local experiences

Is Bali Expensive to Visit?

Bali can work for different travel budgets.

Your total cost depends on:

Accommodation style
Restaurants
Transportation choices
Activities
Travel season

Budget Travel

Possible with:

Local restaurants
Guesthouses
Public activities
Affordable transport

Mid-Range Travel

Many visitors choose:

Comfortable hotels
Private drivers occasionally
Restaurants and activities

Luxury Travel

Bali also has many:

Private villas
Luxury resorts
Premium wellness experiences

The important thing is deciding where you want to spend your money.

For more ways to manage travel costs without missing out on worthwhile experiences, read our guide to how to travel on a budget without sacrificing the experience.

For travelers interested in affordable experiences, our guide:

How to Experience Bali Like a Local for Under $40 a Day

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Sustainable Travel Tips for Bali

Bali receives millions of visitors every year, which makes responsible travel important.

Simple choices can help:

Support Local Businesses

Choose:

Local restaurants
Small businesses
Local guides
Community experiences

Reduce Plastic Waste

Carry:

Reusable water bottle
Reusable shopping bag

Respect Nature

Avoid:

Leaving trash behind
Damaging coral reefs
Supporting harmful wildlife activities

Respect Local Communities

Remember that Bali is not only a vacation destination but also home to millions of people.

For more ideas:

Practical Sustainable Travel Tips: How to Travel More Responsibly

Final Thoughts: Is Bali Worth Visiting?

Bali remains one of the world’s most popular island destinations because it offers more than just beautiful beaches.

A good Bali trip can include:

Ancient temples
Local food
Forest landscapes
Rice terraces
Adventure activities
Wellness experiences
Traditional culture

The best way to experience Bali is not by rushing through a checklist of attractions.

Give yourself time to explore different areas, learn about local traditions and enjoy the slower moments between major sightseeing stops.

Whether you are visiting for a short vacation or a longer stay, Bali offers enough variety to create a trip that matches your own travel style.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bali

What are the best things to do in Bali for first-time visitors?

First-time visitors usually enjoy a combination of:

Ubud’s cultural attractions
Bali temples
Beaches
Waterfalls
Local food experiences
Sunset locations
Traditional activities

A balanced itinerary usually works better than focusing only on famous attractions.

How many days are enough for Bali?

A minimum of 5–7 days allows you to experience major highlights. Around 10–14 days gives you more time to explore different areas without rushing.

What is the best month to visit Bali?

Bali can be visited throughout the year. The dry season is generally preferred for outdoor activities, while the rainy season can offer greener scenery and fewer visitors.

Your ideal timing depends on your planned activities.