Say ‘Bali’ to most people and they’ll immediately picture a sun-drenched beach with bamboo huts and hammocks lining the palm-fringed coastline, chilled locals supping on fresh coconuts as they meander by. While there is absolutely no doubt that if you look hard enough, you can still find it, be warned – Bali is not the peaceful tropical island that you imagine it to be!
The island is BIG for starters (it would take around 12 hours to drive around the whole island) and there can be serious traffic jams, from whizzing motorbikes to fancy sports cars in the queue. Like many of the most popular islands in Southeast Asia, Bali suffers from pollution problems, with exhaust fumes and litter-strewn beaches. The south of the island gets the majority of tourists and splaying out from the city of Denpasar (the location of the airport), the beach resorts of Kuta, Seminyak and Sanur are overly developed with many shopping malls, restaurants and big highways. But don’t let us ruin the image of this island paradise for you…
The island of Bali still came in eighth place in our 50 Best Islands in Southeast Asia Poll! Despite the crowds (which mainly descend on the island all in one go during high season!) there is a hell of a lot to be discovered on Bali if you’re feeling adventurous…
The North and West regions are a far cry from the tourist-clad beaches of the South and the offshore islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan remain natural havens with little tourist infrastructure! As Bali is such a big island with an abundance of activities to try such as surfing, yoga, cooking classes, beach bumming, motorbike adventures, diving, snorkelling, island hopping and much more… this guide to backpacking in Bali is intended as an overview only. We will give a short summary of each of the most popular places to base yourself during your stay in Bali and the experiences on offer in each place!
Bali Map & Resources
MORE INFO: (Opens in new tab)
- 🇮🇩 Indonesia Travel Guide
- 💰 Cost of Backpacking Indonesia
- 🗺️ Bali Backpacking Itinerary
- 🏝 Nearby places: Nusa Penida | Nusa Lembongan | Nusa Ceningan
- 🤿 Must-do activity: Surf at Bali’s Top Spots!
Bali, Indonesia — Travel Guide
Bali Climate: When to visit Bali?
High season in Bali corresponds with school holidays in Europe and the winter months in Australia with July-August being peak season. Easter and Christmas/New Year are also being particularly busy times to visit. For backpackers, the best times to visit Bali are April, May, June and September when the weather is dry and less humid and activities and accommodation can be heavily discounted sometimes up to 50% off!
For divers and snorkelers, these months are also the best time to visit as visibility in the ocean is at its best. Manta Rays can be spotted in Bali from March – June, while the Mola Mola, the unusual looking oceanic sun-fish is most likely to be swimming around Balinese waters from mid-June to early October, with July and August being the best months.
Surfers can visit year round as the west and east coasts work at different times. The breaks along the west and south coast (including Uluwatu) are best during the dry season, while the east coast breaks are pumping during the monsoon season.
The rainy season begins in October, although it doesn’t really kick in until November when rainfall is at its highest. The monsoon lasts until March, although it shouldn’t put you off visiting as many days are sunny with afternoon downpours and the island can still be enjoyed – with much fewer crowds!
A Note on Bali’s Wet Season
The rainy season in Bali is actually opposite to many other parts of Southeast Asia who have their dry/high season between October – March. Read more about the monsoon seasons in Southeast Asia here.
Getting to Bali
By Air
Bali’s airport in Denpasar (I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport) is well connected and many major airlines fly to the island. If you’re travelling from elsewhere in Southeast Asia or from Australia, there are several budget carriers serving Bali. We always search for flights via the websites Skyscanner, or Momondo, to see which gives us the best price! Budget airline AirAsia will likely have the cheapest deals from elsewhere in Southeast Asia, but it’s good to compare.
At the airport, there are fixed rate taxis to just about anywhere on Bali you want to go.
By Sea
If you’re travelling from elsewhere in Indonesia or from Malaysia or Singapore, you can make use of the country’s extensive ferry and boat network. There are ferries from Java, arriving at Gilimanuk in the far west of Bali. Travellers coming from Lombok or the Gili islands are likely to land at Padangbai, Sanur or Serangan on Bali’s east coast.
Where to Stay in Bali
Bali features some of the best hostels in Southeast Asia! Below are a few of our top picks. For a detailed overview of the best places to stay in Bali, read our Bali neighbourhood guide. Also, see our guide to the best hostels in Bali here.
1. Lokal Bali Hostel (Kuta): A stunning hostel with impeccable facilities and service. The swimming pool, dorm rooms and common area are designed to absolute perfection! Within walking distance of the airport, this hostel is a great place to stay on your first night in Bali while you recover from any jetlag and get ready to explore the island! Backpackers who stay here rave about the food, oh and the fact that the TVs have Netflix!
2. Poshtel Ubud (Ubud): A super friendly hostel in Ubud with local owners who will go out of their way to make your experience a pleasant one. Dorm beds are cleaned daily and include a privacy curtain and sumptuous duvets. The beautiful rooftop common area is a great place to relax and chat with fellow travellers after a day exploring Ubud. Banana pancakes for breakfast are a huge hit too!
3. The Jungle House (Canggu): Reopened in May 2022. Another gorgeous hostel located in Canggu that has quirky bamboo beds and a beautiful natural design concept. Travellers love the fun social vibe, as well as the friendly staff. With a lovely swimming pool set in a tropical garden and cute design touches throughout the hostel, you’ll feel like you are living closer to nature than in most hostels. Breakfast included.
4. Ocean Prana (Amed): A rustic hostel set within natural surroundings just a 2-minute walk from the beach in Amed. Open-air showers add to the natural vibe as you wash under the tree canopy. Daily yoga and diving are available and there’s a chilled-out vibe throughout the hostel as people chat on bean bags and relax in hammocks. The swimming pool set amidst rocks is beautiful.
5. Tribal Bali Hostel (Canggu): Bali’s first hostel built with digital nomads in mind, Tribal Bali the perfect place to combine work and play. Located in Pererenan, just outside the hustle and bustle of the popular ex-pat hub of Canggu, the hostel features dedicated co-working spaces, a cafe, bar and a pool. Accommodation options include private deluxe rooms, female-only dorm rooms and mixed dorm rooms, all featuring AC, secure lockers, hot showers, and free WiFi.
For more cheap hostels in Bali search here.
Food and drink in Bali
You are spoilt for choice in most places in Bali when it comes to food. From local rice and satay dishes at markets to foods (cooked well) from all over the world, you should find something to suit all taste buds. As should be expected, Western-style dishes and established restaurants are more expensive than eating in markets or warungs (local restaurants). If you eat locally, you can usually enjoy Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng (spicy fried rice) or mei goreng (fried noodles) for just a few US dollars.
Drinks to Avoid: Arak and Luwak
Be careful about drinking homemade arak (the local spirit) in Bali or elsewhere in Indonesia as the drink can contain methanol, which can be lethal when consumed. There have been several deaths of backpackers in recent years after drinking arak in Bali and the Gili Islands. We also advise avoiding Luwak coffee (Kopi Luwak), the world’s most expensive cup of java, due to animal cruelty concerns.
Places To Stay & Things to do in Bali: South to North
Looking to Get off the Tourist Path?
If you’re seeking off-the-beaten-track adventure in Bali, check out this alternative guide to Bali. Chock full of recommendations for lesser-visited destinations and unique activities, this guide is for those looking to get away from the crowds and discover the real Island of the Gods.
Check out our in-depth guide to Bali’s neighbourhoods here!
SOUTH BALI:
Kuta – For Party Animals & Newbie Surfers
- Go if: You’re not offended by T-shirts that read “What part of deep throat don’t you understand.”
- Avoid if: You’re not looking for a Balinese version of Magaluf (or Cancun for our American friends.)
Kuta (not to be confused with Kuta in Lombok) is Bali’s original tourist hotspot and still to this day attracts hoards of tourists from all over the world. It’s the first stop in Bali for many due to its close proximity to the airport. Many travellers come to seek out Kuta’s notorious party scene (don’t say we didn’t warn you!).
During the day, bars, spas and discount stalls selling knock-off goods and t-shirts with tacky slogans will greet you as you step onto the busy streets of Kuta… At night, you’ll find yourself surrounded by drunken holiday-makers and, unfortunately, litter-strewn beaches. (Sadly, Kuta was voted the 5th worse place to visit in the whole of Southeast Asia in a recent Readers Poll.)
But what the beaches and tourists of Kuta lack, the Balinese locals certainly make up for in their kind and friendly welcomes… Plus, Kuta Beach is actually one the best (and cheapest) places on the island if you’re wanting to learn how to surf!
Top Things to do in Kuta, Bali:
Surfs Up! The long waves that crash on to Kuta beach are perfect for learning to surf, so it’s no surprise that pretty much every other shop sells surfboards or is a surf school. The beach can be pretty crowded with beginner surfers but it’s a cheap place to learn, and you’ll receive the best type of teaching from locals, who know the waves and Kuta Beach like the back of their hand.
Surf Camps in Kuta
Check out these cheap accommodation + surf packages on our website – Organised by local company Stoked Surf, these surf and accommodation packages are great for beginners and budget backpackers. The surf school is located in the heart of Kuta and packages can also include yoga classes if you fancy it. They also offer really cool ‘surfing safaris’ where you get to explore the best surfing spots on the island with local knowledgeable guides. (For beginners or more advanced surfers.) If you’re just looking for a taster, you can book yourself a 2-hour surf lesson right on the beach in Kuta from the many hostels and surf shacks.
Escape the crowds of Kuta Beach: If you’re after a quiet sunbathe then Kuta beach is definitely not for you. Instead, head to Pandawa Beach or ‘Secret Beach’ as the locals originally dubbed it (sadly it’s not so secret these days!). Concealed behind impressive limestone cliffs, its crystal clear waters and white sandy beach are perfect for those looking to spend a peaceful day sunbathing or enjoying the exotic view. Rent a kayak to explore the ocean further or relax with a fresh coconut from the local vendors.
Cool off at a water park: Whilst it might not score too highly on the cultural ratings, Waterbom is a highly rated water park and a must visit if you’re a fan of water slides and rides. A great way to cool off from the often stifling Bali heat, you’re guaranteed a day packed full of fun and thrills. And if getting soaked on their 22 rides isn’t your thing, they have a relaxing swim up bar which is the perfect spot for some people watching.
Turn your life Upside Down: This kooky activity will provide you with some Instagram-worthy photos as Upside Down World compromises of seven rooms where, as you guessed it, everything is upside down. The furniture and décor have been purposefully designed to be the wrong way up so that you when you take a photo you look as though you have superhuman powers and can defy gravity! (Worth a visit for the ‘Gram!)
Go Rafting! White Water Rafting adventures on the Ayung River can be organised from Kuta. A rafting day trip costs around $30 US and includes free pick-up and an Indonesian buffet lunch.
Eat at Crumb & Coaster: After a night out on Kuta’s tiles, treat yourself to an amazing breakfast at Crumb & Coaster. A lovely café serving vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes as well as the finest coffee in town, your day is set to be a good one after a breakfast treat here. Their thick shakes and all day breakfasts will leave you planning your next visit!
Party time: We couldn’t write a guide to Kuta without giving the party–scene a mention. Sky Garden is probably the most famous bar in Kuta. It has played host to many top DJs and often puts on big events, but don’t go there if you’re looking for a tasteful night out! Expect cheesy music and cheap drinks but with free entry and a prime location, it’s just one of those places you have go at least once, right?
👉 WHERE TO STAY: OUR PICK! Lokal Bali Hostel Within walking distance of the airport, Lokal Bali Hostel provides everything you need for a smooth stay in Kuta. A favourite on the Bali backpacking route!
Search for more accommodation in Kuta here.
Sanur – For Chilled Out Travellers
- Go if: You’re looking for a pleasant and quiet beach resort town with a local feel.
- Avoid if: You’re looking for any excitement. For those dreamy tropical beaches – look elsewhere.
Sanur is Kuta’s neighbour on the opposite coast. Often nicknamed ‘Snore’ or ‘Sanbore’ in contrast to Kuta’s pumping nightlife, Sanur is home to many expats and attracts an older, less party-mad crowd than Kuta. Although the long sandy beach is not great for swimming, Sanur does provide a much more chilled out place to stay with a decidedly more local feel. It’s also the departure point for many tourist boats to Lombok and the Gili islands.
For food in Sanur, there’s an excellent selection of warungs (family-owned restaurants) and a night market for cheap, tasty street foods. Make sure you try babi guling, a celebration dish of roast pig, rice & sambal. (A very good warung is opposite MacDonalds at the entry to Sanur beach road.)
Top Thing to do in Sanur, Bali
Taman Festival, Bali’s Abandoned Theme Park: 4 km north of Sanur, you’ll find one of Bali’s strangest attractions; Taman Festival, the abandoned theme park. With its disused slides and impressive artwork, it’s an urban explorer’s dream. Psst. If you’re an Urbex fan you’ll want to check out our spooky archives here.
Don’t Forget: Sanur is also a good jumping off point for Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and The Gili Islands! Find more deals on hotels in Sanur here.
👉 WHERE TO STAY: OUR PICK! For a great accommodation option, Little Pond Homestay has very well priced rooms and a small swimming pool.
Seminyak – For Flashpackers and Expats
- Go if: You’re looking for a posh hotel, expensive cocktails and trendy bars.
- Avoid if: You don’t want to blow your entire budget for Southeast Asia on one week in Seminyak!
Just a little further north up the coast from Kuta, Seminyak is a lively place, with trendy bars, restaurants and resorts. It’s considered to be more stylish than Kuta and is a big hit with flashpackers and wealthier tourists as it’s home to the island’s luxury hotels and upmarket five-star beach resorts. It’s one of the most expensive places to stay on the island.
There are also some fancy restaurants and boutique fashion stores lining Seminyak’s streets that are a stark contrast to Kuta’s backpacker grunge. Seminyak is a favourite amongst expats In Bali who have opened businesses here and spend their days looking cool in the cafés and beaches. However, those of you wanting to backpack Bali on a budget should look elsewhere… Search accommodation in Seminyak here!
Top Thing to do in Seminyak, Bali
Spend the day at Potato Head: Visit one of Bali’s best (and most fun named!) beach clubs. Lounge on a day bed, swim in the infinity pool and bask in the good life.
Canggu – For Digital Nomads
- Go if: You’re a digital nomad hipster looking for the best place in Bali to base yourself long-term.
- Avoid if: You hate hipsters.
Close to the beach with a hipster vibe, Canggu, 20 minutes north of Seminyak, has become popular with long-term travellers and digital nomads who get themselves a cheap apartment with a sea view and set up a tropical base for a few months in paradise! While it’s more chilled than Kuta or Seminyak, Canggu is becoming increasingly busy as development along Bali’s southwest coast creeps ever northward.
Canggu is a great place to while away a few days, take a yoga class or treat yourself to a massage (or two!), and it’s perfectly placed to visit many of the island’s sights while staying away from the noise of Kuta. Check out deals on accommodation in Canggu here.
Top Things to do in Canggu, Bali
Hit the waves: With much quieter beaches than Kuta and Seminyak and decent waves, surfing is a popular activity in Canggu.
Visit Tanah Lot Temple: From Canggu, it’s less than half an hour’s drive to one of Bali’s most iconic sights, Tanah Lot Temple.
Live it up at a beach club: Canggu is home to some of Bali’s most famous beach clubs, including Finns, Atlas and The Lawn. Spend a lazy (or boozy) day at one of these clubs gearing up for a beachside party.
Watch the sunset at La Brisa: Among the Canggu beach clubs, La Brisa stands out as a sunset location. You know all those Bali beach sunset shots you’ve seen on Instagram with people enjoying a drink on the sand? There’s a high chance that many were shot from the beach at La Brisa.
See our favourite beaches in Bali here!
Pererenan – For Foodies and Gym Bunnies
- Go if: You want to stay somewhere quieter but still close to the action
- Avoid if: You’re expecting a quiet Balinese village
On the western edges of Canggu is Pererenan, a quieter neighbourhood that is gaining popularity. It’s a great location for those who want to enjoy the amenities and nightlife of Canggu without staying in the thick of it. It’s also making a name for itself as a foodie hotspot, with acclaimed restaurants like Woods, Origen and Red Gunpowder, serving Mediterranean, Mexican and Indian dishes respectively.
Top Things to do in Pererenan, Bali
Savour some delicious cuisine: You’ll find some of the island’s most mouth-watering dishes in this up-and-coming part of the island. (If pizza’s the only thing that will do it for you, head to Arte.)
Hit the gym: Work off all that fantastic food at the Wrong Gym, one of the best in Bali. Or, if you fancy simply chilling, their recovery centre is well worth a visit on its own! Elite Fit and Nirvana are two other great options nearby.
Chill on a empty beach: Pantai Pererenan is a beach of two halves. To the south it’s lined with eateries, bars and surfers. However, head north and you’ll find a delightfully deserted stretch of black sand, perfect for escaping the crowds.
👉 WHERE TO STAY: OUR PICK! Tribal Bali Hostel is a home from home for digital nomads and backpackers whether you’re looking to work in their co-work space or relax and socialise around the pool.
Uluwatu – For Surfers
- Go if: You’re looking for Bali’s best surf breaks
- Avoid if: You hate big sprawling urban areas and traffic
Uluwatu, or Ulu, is located on the west of Bukit Peninsula in the far south of Bali. It’s known as the top surfing destination on the island and is home to some of Bali’s best breaks. Beyond surfing by day (or relaxing on the beach) and partying by night, there’s not a great deal to do here. However, the dramatic landscape with its plunging cliffs is picturesque and there are ample fantastic sunset spots. There is no real ‘centre’ of Uluwatu and it’s spread across a relatively big area. If you’re trying to work out where to stay, you can’t go far wrong if you base yourself close to Dreamland, Bingin Beach or Padang Padang Beach.
Top Things to do in Uluwatu, Bali:
Catch a barrel: Advanced surfers looking to get barrelled can ride the world-class waves at Padang Padang or Uluwatu.
Visit Uluwatu Temple: The beautiful clifftop temple at Uluwatu is best visited at golden hour. Don’t miss the renowned Kecak and Fire Dance while you’re there.
Chill on the beach: Some of Uluwatu’s beaches are beautiful places to spend a day on the sand, although the pounding surf makes swimming inadvisable, if not impossible. Dreamland and Padang Padang are two of the best, the latter was made famous in Eat, Pray, Love.
Have a drink at Single Fin: Another iconic Bali beach bar, Single Fin’s clifftop location is the perfect place for a sundowner while watching the surfing pros tackle the epic waves.
Nusa Dua – For Beach Lovers
- Go if: You’re seeking the best beaches in Bali
- Avoid if: You want an authentic Balinese experience
The west coast of Bukit Peninsula is lined with high-end resorts along the endless stretches of beautiful beaches. It’s a good option for couples or families who simply want to relax on a tropical beach. The resort area of this tourist enclave feels more like a gated community than an Indonesian island so won’t appeal to those looking for a real taste of Bali.
Top Things to do in Nusa Dua, Bali:
Enjoy beach life: This part of the island is home to some of Bali’s best beaches, so pull up a lounger, order a coconut and settle in for beach days.
See the Waterblow: Marvel at the power of Mother Nature as you watch powerful waves crashing onto the rocks at Waterblow creating an almighty splash!
EAST BALI
Padangbai – For Budget Backpackers and Divers
- Go if: You’re a backpacker looking for cheap accommodation and a diving scene with easy access to the Gili Islands.
- Avoid if: Plastic on the beach upsets you. (Not always the case as efforts to control Bali’s plastic waste are ongoing!)
Padangbai is a small chilled out seaside town with some lively backpackers’ places and a small but pleasant beach (the only downside is that the sand is pretty coarse). Padangbai is also famous for diving and there are lots of dive shops that will get you kitted out for a 3-day Open Water Diver Course or a Discover SCUBA Dive. For beginners, there are many shallow dive sites around this area that have colourful corals and calm waters teeming with underwater life, perfect for beginners. Padangbai is also a major port for the public ferry from Bali to Lombok and some of the fast boats to the Gilis (although some tourist boats depart from Sanur).
👉 WHERE TO STAY: OUR PICK! Topi Inn is a colourful bar and restaurant area downstairs with a selection of private rooms and ‘dorm’ beds upstairs (essentially comfortable mattresses under mozzie-nets on a covered terrace, which are a great budget option). The boys working behind the bar are great fun and staff can also arrange boat tickets on to other islands for just about the cheapest price going. Topi Inn can also help to arrange one of the cultural classes or courses on offer in Padangbai – learn to batik, create silver jewellery, dance to traditional music or learn to play the drums like a local! Find Cheap Hotels in Padangbai here.
Amed and Tulamben – For Divers and Laid-Back Travellers
- Go if: Snorkeling and SCUBA diving are your thing.
- Avoid if: You want Instagram-worthy white sandy beach shots.
Head for the east coast for laid-back lifestyle, diving and black sand beaches. Amed and Tulamben, along the northeast coast of the island, are quiet, old fishing villages, catering to relaxed travellers and holidaymakers alike. There are plenty of cheap digs and cheap eats, plus a few slightly larger hotels that appeal to an older and more family-orientated crowd.
Check out the beachside warungs for fresh fish cooked Bali style over coconut shells. One of the most popular places to stay in Amed is Geri Giria Shanti – (you almost certainly will need to book in advance!). An absolute haven of a guest house, run by the beautiful and oh-so-helpful Lise, Geri Giria offers beautiful bungalows with free breakfast, and free tea and coffee all day. Lise and her partner David also run Adventure Divers on the same site, if you’re feeling adventurous. Bungalows with private bathrooms start at 20 Euros a night for a double bed, but they’re happy to add an extra mattress if you ask to make the room a triple.
👉 WHERE TO STAY: OUR PICK! Three Brothers (Bobby’s Villas) offers beachfront bungalows and includes great service from the staff, plus a beautiful pool overlooking the beach. Drink a cold beer in the pool while the sun sets over the ocean and locals play their guitars on the beach!
Top Thing to do in Ahmed, Bali:
Diving: Amed is most popular for its diving, in particular, the awesome wreck dive that lies just offshore, the U.S.A.T Liberty Wreck. The famous Liberty Wreck is a US cargo ship sunk during the Second World War. Set your alarms and go for an early morning dive (most dive shops will be happy to arrange a 6.30am dive) to avoid the crowds and see the huge family of bump head fish that swim through the remains. Find out more about the wreck dive here.
Local underwater life also includes turtles, reef sharks and fantastic hard & soft corals as well as healthy Anemones. If you’re not a diver and prefer snorkelling, snorkelers also have plenty of areas to visit, including the liberty shipwreck at low tide.
CENTRAL BALI
Ubud – For Hippies and Yogis
- Go if: You like café latte, vegan brownies and Kundalini yoga classes.
- Avoid if: You don’t want to spend a week’s worth of accommodation on café latte, vegan brownies and Kundalini yoga classes.
Ubud, away from the coast and up in the mountains, is a beautiful and artistic town, with a thriving tourism industry and stunning landscapes. (A must-see for fans of the novel, Eat, Pray, Love.) The centre is very congested with taxis touting for business and nose to tail tour buses, but don’t let that put you off as you can walk ten minutes away from the central area and be in the countryside amongst beautiful rice terraced landscapes. You can also rent a motorbike or bicycle and enjoy the countryside surrounding the town centre – it takes only minutes to get away from the tourist attractions and get lost amongst rice paddies and rolling hillsides!
Top Things to do in Ubud, Bali:
Practice yoga: Ubud has become a centre for yoga, meditation and the holistic arts. The popular Yoga Barn has a variety of excellent, but rather expensive yoga classes, everything from Kundalini to Yin yoga. In addition, the annual Bali Spirit Festival draws yogis and musician every year to enjoy a celebration of yoga, music, arts and general hippie stuff! It’s well worth it if you happen to be in Ubud in March/April. (See more below). Read more about Yoga & Meditation in Bali and Southeast Asia here.
Monkey Forest in Ubud: Get up and close with hundreds of monkeys and a few picturesque temples at Monkey Forest in Ubud. Be warned though, as these furry little critters will steal anything including hats and sunglasses! Lock up your bags as they can apparently open the zips! Leave your bag at the gate if you have any food with you. A good way to spend an hour and if you’re lucky you may see a religious ceremony at one of the temples.
Campuhan Ridge Walk: Heading west from the palace and turning off at Hotel Ibah will take you to the Campuhan Ridge Walk. An easy walk for all fitness levels with great views of the valleys, farmers and countryside which after a few kilometres turns into a village. Carry on further and be rewarded with rice fields and a mountain backdrop. Postcard perfect and without the masses of tours at the well-known rice terraces. Bring sunscreen & mosquito repellent and head out early before the sun gets fierce.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces: The most famous rice terraces to visit in the whole of Bali are the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, just north of Ubud, which you can visit on a group tour from the town, or hire a motorbike and make your own way there.
Take a Cooking Class: Being the cultural heart of Bali, there are many cooking classes that will show you how to make authentic Balinese food in a local setting. Most of them included a trip to the market, visit to a local house or temple and cost around $30 USD or under. Check out Subak Cooking Class in Ubud. All classes normally involve pick-up and of course, you get to eat all of the delicious food that you cook!
Visit a museum: Ubud is also home to several museums, with important and historical Balinese artworks, including Museum Puri Lukisan and The Blanco Renaissance Museum.
Take a day trip to Taro village to see a natural firefly show: A unique tour from Ubud where you’ll be taken to a local village to watch the fireflies dance over the rice fields.
Treat Yourself: If you want to indulge a little in this beautiful place, there are plenty of good-but-cheap spas offering massages, reflexology and various body scrub treatments.
Spiritual Cleansing and Shamanic Healing: With Ubud being a magnet for spiritual seekers, local companies are starting to offer tourists the chance to meet locally famous magic men for shamanic counselling and healing. A visit to the 11th century Goa Gajah Temple is also a must as well as a spiritual cleansing at Bali’s Holy Spring Temple (Pura Tirta Empul).
👉 WHERE TO STAY: OUR PICK! Depa House is a lovely, sociable place to stay nestled right in the heart of Ubud. It was voted best hostel in the whole of Indonesia on Hostel World in 2016! Spacious private rooms with free delicious breakfast and friendly staff who will help you to arrange any trips and tours that you like, it’s great value for money for budget travellers who are looking for a little more comfort. Find Cheap Hotels in Ubud here.
Read our Article: Eating Your Way Through Ubud: A Self Guided Food Walking Tour.
Munduk – For Nature Lovers
- Go if: You want to experience the real Bali!
- Avoid if: Countryside and nature aren’t your thing.
If you’re searching for the ‘real Bali’, Munduk is not a bad place to start. This quiet and green area of Bali feels a world away from the frenetic south. Sprawling rice fields, lakes and waterfalls dot the landscape and life moves at a slower place here in the countryside.
Top Things to do in Munduk, Bali:
Visit Ulun Danu Temple (pictured at the top of this page): One of Bali’s iconic temples is located close to Munduk.
Chase waterfalls: Central Bali is full of glorious waterfalls, many of which are easily reachable from Munduk. Sekumpul, Aling-Aling and Banyumala are a few of the best.
Enjoy the ride: This area of Bali is a great place to simply slow down and enjoy some quiet. To soak up some scenery, hop on a motorbike and just see where the wind takes you. You’re almost guaranteed beautiful views around every turn.
NORTH BALI
Lovina – For Second-time Bali visitors
- Go if: You’ve had enough of the touristy south or want to see some dolphins.
- Avoid if: You want to watch the sunset without getting asked to go on a dolphin tour 56 times.
Much less visited than Bali’s centre and southern coast, rural and rugged Northern Bali feels like a completely different island. The atmosphere is decidedly more local and accommodation is much cheaper. The main beach resorts are Pemuteran and Lovina – both fishing villages that are developing rapidly to cater to a growing number of tourists who venture from the over-saturated southern region. Most people choose to stay in Lovina.
Despite the fewer tourists, which is nice, it does mean that the touts have fewer people to pester and so ironically, you are likely to get hassled more often here than in the south. You can’t sit on the beach for 5 minutes in Lovina without being offered a dolphin tour!
Top Things to do in Lovina, Bali:
Watch the dolphins: We might have mentioned the dolphin tours in Lovina… If you want to see these majestic mammals, this is the place to do it!
Visit Lion King Town!: Just along the coast from Lovina, you’ll find the old island capital of Singaraja, the second largest town of Bali (after Denpasar) that nobody seems to mention, let alone visit! (Singa = lion. Raja = King. Lion King town!) The city was founded in 1604 and taken over by the Dutch colonials in 1848 while it was used as a harbour for their ships in and around other parts of Asia. (In 1958 the capital was moved to Denpasar.) Its tree-lined streets and surviving Dutch colonial buildings are worth exploring for a few hours!
Find accommodation in Lovina, click here!
Bali’s Volcanoes – Gunung Agung and Gunung Batur
Gunung Agung is the highest and holiest volcano on Bali standing at 3,142 meters. Gunung Batur, standing at 1717 metres and located in the northeast of the island, is Bali’s most active volcano. Both provide fabulous trekking opportunities. Agung is longer and more challenging (at around 5-7 hours return), while Batur is a more accessible (and more popular) trek taking about 2-3 hours to the summit by those with a relative degree of fitness.
WEST BALI
Medewi – For Laid-back Surfers and The Adventurous
- Go if: You’re looking for off-the-beaten-track Bali and the island’s least crowded waves.
- Avoid if: You don’t do windy roads.
Western Bali is the least visited and least populated region of the island. The only place you’re likely to find any other travellers (and few at that) is the small town of Medewi. This little laid-back coastal town attracts surfers who are looking for the least crowded waves on Bali. Head to the Holy Tree Cafe and Surf Shop for board rental and the chance to bump into other travellers.
Top Things to do in Medewi, Bali:
Ride Bali’s Longest Left: Medewi is home to the longest left wave on the island — great news for goofy footers!
Visit Bali’s only national park: In the far west corner of the island West Bali National Park is a large protected nature reserve founded in 1917 to protect Bali’s endemic bird, the Bali Starling. To enter the National Park foreigners must have a guide. The cost is about 200,000 IDR per person for a 2-hour hike.
Dive off of Pulau Menjangan: A couple of hours from Medewi, sitting off Bali’s northwest coast is the small island of Pulau Menjangan. The diving and snorkelling here is spectacular and much less crowded than Bali’s southern dive sites. The quiet roads of West Bali make for a great road trip along mountainous terrain stopping to photograph coconut plantations, untouched beaches and sleepy fishing villages.
BALI’S OFFSHORE ISLANDS – SOUTHEAST
Nusa Lembongan – For Surfers and Snorkelers
- Go if: You’re a surfer looking for less crowded breaks or a diver looking for Manta Rays.
- Avoid if: You’re looking for a cheap surf shack – Nusa Lembongan just got expensive!
Nusa Lembongan is the second largest of the smaller, quieter islands just off the south-east coast of Bali. (The others are Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan). The 8km square Nusa Lembongan is a beautiful, quiet island, with serene beaches as well as the famous ‘Manta Point’ dive site and great surf breaks on the north of the island. Read more here about diving in Nusa Lembongan! All in all, Nusa Lembongan is a great place to get away from the traffic and business of Southern Bali! (The island came 46th in our readers poll of the best islands in Southeast Asia!)
Top Things to do in Nusa Lembongan, Bali:
Surf: For surfers who are bored of the crowds at Kuta, head to Nusa Lembongan for the breaks ominously named ‘Shipwreck’, ‘Lacerations’ and ‘Playground’ (not for beginners).
Snorkel: Boats can be chartered for the day (bargain hard) to go to two, or three celebrated spots. A cheaper option is to head to Mangrove point and wade into the water from outside Bobo’s Warung. Swim a few hundred metres to the reef where the fish are abundant and friendly. Bobo’s will also rent snorkelling equipment, sell drinks and lunch.
Dive: Diving can be completed at Mangrove point, and also several sites on Nusa Penida (see below). Manta Rays and Mola Molas can be seen at certain times of the year, but conditions can be challenging.
👉 WHERE TO STAY: OUR PICK! If you’re looking for a laid-back place to stay, Bong Hostel is a favourite amongst backpackers with a gorgeous infinity pool and amazing sea view. Friendly staff, free brekkie and good vibes included. Find more places to stay in Nusa Lembongan here!
Getting to Nusa Lembongan:
There are many options to travel the 60-minute journey from Bali to Nusa Lembongan for all budgets. We have travelled with a company called Perama and found them to run on time, have friendly staff and lifejackets on board. They also run connections to the Gili Islands and Lombok. Always make sure the boats provide lifejackets. Safety is often not the priority in Indonesia.
Nusa Penida – For Nature Lovers and Motorcyclists
- Go if: You’re looking to get away from it all and find some peace and bloody quiet! (Great to explore by motorbike!)
- Avoid if: You want luxury or half-decent beach-front accommodation.
Nusa Penida is the largest of the three islands which lie off Bali’s south-east coast and is most famous for T-Rex Beach (the dinosaur-shaped headland!). There is less infrastructure here and a much more natural vibe as the island is home to a bird sanctuary, seaweed farming and just a few places to stay. (The island was voted 16th in our 50 best islands in Southeast Asia poll.)
Top Things to do in Nusa Penida, Bali:
Dive at Manta Point: Manta Point is a manta ray cleaning station and one of the best places in Southeast Asia to spot these amazing creatures (the best season is March to June). You can take a diving trip or a snorkelling trip which includes pick-up from your hotel in Bali, lunch and a visit to the beautiful Crystal Bay included.
Visit Tembeling Forest: The virgin rainforest is in the centre of the island and home to many wildlife and bird species.
Relax on a deserted beach: The north and the north-west coast is home to many deserted white sandy beaches while the south coast has spectacular white limestone cliffs – a stark contrast to Southern Bali’s crowded shores!
👉 WHERE TO STAY: OUR PICK! The new Nuansa Penida Hostel is a lovely, friendly and clean place to stay with open-air showers, big comfortable dorm beds and awesome free breakfast. Find cheap hostels in Nusa Penida here.
Festivals and Events in Bali
Galungan
This Hindu festival takes place every 210 days so the date shifts every year. Galungan is a celebration of good triumphing over evil. During this time, it’s believed that spirits return to Earth and Balinese people welcome their ancestors with prayers and offerings.
MARCH
Nyepi — The Day of Silence
Nyepi is the start of the Hindu New Year and Bali’s unique ‘Day of Silence’ which takes place every year for a full 24 hours, starting at 6 am. It’s a very unusual time to visit Bali as you’ll see the islands busy streets and beaches become empty as everyone adheres to the restrictions of this holy day. For one day only, talking, travelling, working and eating are restricted. Tourists are expected to respect the day with bars, restaurants and the airport closing. It falls at the end of March or beginning of April.
The Annual Bali Spirit Festival
The Bali Spirit Festival takes place every March/April in the cultural heart of Ubud, Bali, drawing thousands of Yogis, musicians and hippies from across Asia. The Festival is a collaboration of yoga, music, singing, dance, meditation and workshops dealing with healing and holistic therapies. The venue is stunning, surrounded by rice fields and palm trees and there’s a mix of local and internationally renowned musicians who play the festival every year. Definitely, check it out if you’re there!
MAY
Usaba Sambah
Bali’s ‘fighting festival’ takes place every year in the walled village of Tenganan. It’s a must for culture vultures with mock fights, performances and dancing.
JUNE
Bali Arts Festival
Across the island, during the month of June, you’ll see various cultural performances and art installations. The festival is a proud celebration of Balinese traditions and it’s a great time to visit!
JULY
Bali Kite Festival
Kites of all colours, shapes and sizes take to the skies at Sanur Beach, signalling to the Hindu Gods in order to ensure a successful harvest. Celebrations include competitions and live music.
Discover more festivals and events in Southeast Asia here.
Getting around the Island
Although Bali is relatively small, transport can be hard without a set of wheels, be it a car or a motorbike. There is a very limited public transport infrastructure, although Perama offers a shuttle bus service aimed at travellers to get to some of the more popular locations (minimum 2pax to travel, usually).
If you don’t drive (or simply don’t want to because the traffic is horrendous!) it’s very easy to get around the touristed areas by motortaxis. Grab and Gojek are by far the most popular ride-hailing apps and both offer cheap, convenient transport. Short rides usually cost just one or two USD. If you’re heading away from the tourist path (basically anywhere further north than Ubud) you’ll find these options much harder to come by and your best bet is to get your own set of wheels. Expect to pay around $5—8USD per day to hire a scooter.
If you do hire a car or motorbike, be very cautious and make sure you have appropriate travel insurance.
SafetyWing is the travel insurance of choice for scores of backpackers!
- Subscription style insurance
- Cheap and flexible
- Available after your trip has started
A Warning about Road Safety In Bali: Drive-By Robberies
Written by Cherie Julie.
By far, the most popular way to get around the island of Bali is by scooter, however, there have been several reports of people being robbed whilst driving on their scooters, particularly in the tourist area of Canggu. The idea of this notice is not to scare you but to advise you these Bali thieves are notorious and do not care about your safety. While this is only a handful of people targeting tourists it is best to take precautions.
Drive-by robberies usually occur when you ride your scooter or motorbike on the road, and another person attempts to steal your belongings while driving. This can occur by the robber pulling up alongside you to either take your belongings (most commonly your phone) out of your hand, steal your bag or backpack, or even in the worst case push you off your bike or bring your bike to a complete stop. The most common robbery on the road is the drive-by theft of phones. As a result, victims have lost their valuables and sustained injuries.
Here are a few tips you can follow to minimise your risk of being robbed whilst travelling on the road:
- First, secure your valuables in your bag, seater, or jacket pocket.
- Do not hold your phone in front of you or place it in a phone holder whilst driving (not only is this downright dangerous, but it will also make it easier for thieves to rob you).
- Place your phone in your jacket pocket (zip-up pockets are best), bag, or in the seat compartment.
- If you are using a backpack invest in a small rain cover that goes over your bag and use it even when it is not raining – this is a great way to keep people easily unzipping your bag. You could also invest in an anti-theft backpack.
- If you need to use Google maps, try using air pods or headphones so you can drive hands-free.
- Do not drive on your own at night. Unfortunately, this is especially true for females.
- If you are in a situation where you prefer not to ride a scooter you can order a bike or car using either Grab or Gojek. This is a much safer way to travel if you have valuables such as cameras and laptops or if you must travel at night.
Where To Go Next?
Nusa Lembongan: Recharge for a few days on Nusa Lembongan. Witness the power of Mother Nature at Devil’s Tears, eat traditional Indonesian dishes at one of the warungs or head out snorkelling, diving or surfing.
The Gili Islands: When you’ve had enough of Bali, hop on a boat to the Gili Islands (off the coast of Lombok), where ‘something for everyone’ couldn’t be more accurate. Head to Gili Trawangan to party, Gili Air to chill or Gili Meno for a romantic getaway!
Lombok: Head over to Lombok for a quieter experience. Here you’ll find stunning empty beaches, fantastic surf and gorgeous countryside. Challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Rinjani or enjoy the growing nightlife scene in Kuta.
Contributors
South East Asia Backpacker is a ‘travel diary for everyone’. This article has been written with the help of backpackers and local experts. We would like to thank the following for their input to this article…
🙏 Lisa Barham | Writer at South East Asia Backpacker
🙏 Laura Richards | South East Asia Backpacker Community
🙏 Simon Rogers | South East Asia Backpacker Community
🙏 Ben Turland | South East Asia Backpacker Community
🙏 Georgia Wilkinson | South East Asia Backpacker Community
🙏 John Reed | South East Asia Backpacker Community
Nikki Scott | Founder & Editor
Nikki is the founding editor of South East Asia Backpacker and The Backpacker Network. In her early twenties, she left her home in the North of England on a solo backpacking adventure and never returned! After six months on the road, she founded a print magazine that became legendary on the Banana Pancake Trail. The rest is history.
Great amount of info guys, helps us plan a bit without planning to much.
Our pleasure! If you have any updates to our Bali Guide after you visit just let us know 😉 We’re always updating our guides with great suggestions from our community!