13 Best Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia

If there’s one place on Earth where you can hop between lush rice terraces, lively beach clubs, hidden waterfalls, and sacred temples all before sunset, it’s Bali.

The island has this incredible way of blending adventure, relaxation, and pure chaos (in the best way) into one day.

Having spent time zig-zagging the island on a scooter, chasing down sunrise views and accidentally wandering into ceremonies (true story), I’m here to break down some of the best things to do in Bali, starting with a few of my personal favorites. Let’s dive right in!

Day trip to Nusa Pineda

If you come all the way to Bali and don’t hop over to Nusa Penida, you’re honestly missing a huge part of what makes this region unforgettable.

Nusa Penida is a rugged, jaw-dropping island located about 45 minutes away by fast boat from Sanur harbor. And let me tell you, the photos you’ve seen online? Yeah, they don’t even do it justice.

You can visit incredible spots like Kelingking Beach (the iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff), Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and the surreal waters of Crystal Bay.

If you can, rent a driver for the day once you’re on the island, the roads are no joke. Think potholes the size of small craters.

A guided day trip will make it way less stressful, and you can pack in the most sights without worrying about logistics.

Traveler Tip: Start early in the morning to beat the crowds, trust me, you’ll thank yourself when you’re taking in those views with only a few people around.

Visit the Ceking Rice Terrace

Ever wondered where all those dreamlike Bali photos of neon-green rice fields come from?

The Ceking Rice Terrace in Tegallalang is basically the poster child for that.

Walking through the Ceking Rice Terrace feels like stepping into a storybook.

The perfectly carved steps of the terraces, the palm trees swaying lazily overhead, and the farmers tending their fields create an atmosphere that’s somehow both vibrant and peaceful at the same time.

You can walk along the paths, cross a few small bamboo bridges, and even stop for a coconut drink at a tiny café hidden within the fields.

Traveler Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon for the best light and to avoid getting baked under the midday sun.

(Also, bring a few small bills there are occasional “entrance donations” at different entry points.)

Experience the Beach Clubs

Bali has beach clubs down to a science. Whether you want to sip cocktails in an infinity pool, dance to a DJ set, or just chill with your feet buried in the sand, there’s a spot for it.

And no, you don’t have to be some mega-influencer to enjoy them. Trust me, rolling in after a sweaty day on a scooter and crashing onto a bean bag with a drink in hand is Bali bliss.

Here’s a quick handy list of some of the best beach clubs in Bali:

• Potato Head Beach Club – Seminyak’s iconic spot with massive pools, quirky design, and sunset views that’ll wreck your camera roll.
• Finns Beach Club – A huge open-air bamboo structure right on the beach in Canggu, very lively, very photogenic.
• Sundays Beach Club – Hidden away in Uluwatu, you literally take a funicular down to a private beach.
• Atlas Beach Fest – One of the newest (and biggest) beach clubs in Canggu, feels like a mini music festival every night.
• La Brisa Bali – A bohemian dream right on Echo Beach with driftwood decor and epic seafood.
• Savaya Bali – Formerly Omnia, this one’s perched dramatically on a cliff in Uluwatu, next-level luxury vibes.
• The Lawn Canggu – Chill sunset sessions, bean bags on the grass, and a casual cool crowd.

Traveler Tip: Many of these clubs have minimum spends for seating during peak hours, call ahead or check online before you show up.

Day Trip to the Gili Islands

If you’re itching for that real island vibe, turquoise water, no traffic noise (because there are no cars!), and sand between your toes 24/7, the Gili Islands are calling.

The Gili Islands are actually three tiny islands off the coast of Lombok, just east of Bali. Gili Trawangan (the lively one), Gili Air (the chill one), and Gili Meno (the honeymoon one). You can hop over by fast boat from Padang Bai harbor, and the ride takes about 1.5–2 hours depending on the sea conditions.

I’ll be honest, it’s a bit of a mission to get there and back in one day, but if you’re up for it, the reward is next-level.

You’ll find picture-perfect beaches, amazing snorkeling spots (turtles galore), and a vibe that’s somehow even slower than Bali’s most laid-back corners. Plus, bikes and horse carts are the only transportation on the islands, so once you land, the stress level just melts away.

Traveler Tip: If you can swing it, stay overnight instead of just day-tripping. Watching the sunset from Gili T with a Bintang beer in hand is the stuff tropical dreams are made of.

Ubud Monkey Forest

Welcome to the chaos. And I say that with love! The Ubud Monkey Forest, officially known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is one of those places that sounds peaceful in theory (ancient temples! lush jungle!)… until you realize there are hundreds of mischievous monkeys running the show.

Walking through the forest feels like entering some sort of real-life jungle movie. The ancient banyan trees have roots that look like they’re swallowing the temples whole, moss covers nearly every surface, and the monkeys? Oh, they have zero fear.

If you’re holding a plastic bag, a drink, sunglasses, even a loose scrunchie, prepare to be targeted. These little guys are smart, and they know tourists carry snacks.

That being said, it’s absolutely worth visiting. It’s one of the few places that genuinely feels like old Bali: raw, untamed, and alive with spiritual energy.

Traveler Tip: Don’t make eye contact with the monkeys (they see it as a challenge) and leave everything you don’t need locked up or hidden deep inside your bag. Trust me, you don’t want to get mugged by a monkey in broad daylight.

Check Out the Many Beaches

Now, Bali’s beaches get a mixed reputation, some people love them, some people complain they’re “overrated.”

The truth? You just have to know where to go. Sure, Kuta Beach isn’t winning any awards these days (unless it’s for the most crowded place to get a questionable tattoo at 2 AM), but Bali has incredible beaches if you hit the right spots.

Here’s a quick list of some of my favorite beaches around the island:

• Nusa Dua Beach – White sand, calm waters, and perfect for lazy days under a palm tree.
• Padang Padang Beach – Tiny hidden beach accessed by a steep staircase, great for swimming and people-watching surfers.
• Melasti Beach – Dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear water, and fewer crowds than the better-known beaches.
• Bingin Beach – Rugged, beautiful, and home to some epic small cafes perched right above the sand.
• Thomas Beach – A secret-feeling beach near Uluwatu — ideal for a quiet afternoon.
• Echo Beach – Canggu’s hipster surf spot with lots of beach bars and smoothie bowls on standby.
• Amed Beach – On the northeast coast, famous for black sand beaches and amazing snorkeling.
• Green Bowl Beach – Hidden, wild, and usually empty, the descent down is steep, but the payoff is insane.

Traveler Tip: If you’re renting a scooter, you can easily hit multiple beaches in one day. Just pack a sarong, some sunscreen, and expect a few “creative” parking situations.

Explore the Waterfalls

Bali’s waterfalls are something straight out of a dream, wild, lush, and a little bit chaotic (in the best way).

Exploring these hidden gems was one of my favorite ways to spend a day on the island. Whether you want a quiet swim or an adventurous hike down slippery jungle paths, there’s a waterfall for you.

Here’s a handy list of some of the best waterfalls in Bali:

• Tegenungan Waterfall – Located close to Ubud, it’s one of the easiest to access. There’s even a small café overlooking the falls where you can sip a coconut and just exist.
• Sekumpul Waterfall – This one’s a bit of a mission to get to, but absolutely worth it. Towering falls hidden deep in the jungle you’ll feel like you’re in Jurassic Park.
• Tibumana Waterfall – A smaller, more peaceful spot with a perfect swimming hole. Great if you want to avoid the bigger crowds.
• Leke Leke Waterfall – A narrow cascade hidden behind a short trek through the jungle. Not many tourists, and crazy photogenic.
• Nungnung Waterfall – 509 steps down (and up don’t forget that part), but hands down one of the most powerful waterfalls you’ll see.

Traveler Tip: Wear good sandals or sneakers with grip Bali’s waterfalls can be very slippery. Also, bring some small bills for parking fees and donations at local entrances.

Hike Mount Batur

If you’re even remotely thinking about hiking Mount Batur, do it! Mount Batur is an active volcano that offers one of the most iconic sunrise hikes in all of Southeast Asia.

Trust me, watching the world slowly light up from above the clouds is a memory you’ll keep forever (even if your legs are screaming the whole way up).

There are a few ways to experience it:

• Sunrise Hike: This is the classic. You’ll leave your hotel around 2 AM (yes, it’s brutal) and hike for about two hours in the dark. But standing at the summit at dawn? Worth every step.
• Jeep Tour: Not feeling the hike? You can book a sunrise jeep tour that takes you most of the way up the volcano for a much easier (and warmer) experience.
• Daytime Trek: If waking up at 1 AM isn’t your vibe, you can also hike it later in the morning or afternoon — it’s still beautiful, just hotter and a little less magical.

Traveler Tip: Bring a light jacket or hoodie. It gets cold at the summit before sunrise — like, “where the heck am I, this isn’t Bali” cold.

Uluwatu Temple Show

Picture this: a cliffside temple perched dramatically over crashing waves, the sky lit up with golden sunset hues, and a traditional Balinese Kecak fire dance unfolding right in front of you. That’s the Uluwatu Temple experience.

The temple itself, Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is one of the six key spiritual pillars of Bali — and visiting it feels like stepping into something sacred.

But the real magic happens during the Kecak Dance Show. It’s not your typical dance.

There’s no music, just a chorus of chanting men setting the rhythm as the dancers tell the ancient story of the Ramayana through fire, movement, and sheer intensity.

Traveler Tip: Hold onto your belongings — the monkeys around Uluwatu are little pickpockets. Sunglasses, hats, phones, they love ‘em.

Walk Campuhan Ridge

When you need a break from the scooters, the street noise, and the overall “Bali buzz,” the Campuhan Ridge Walk is pure therapy.

This easy, scenic trail weaves through rolling hills, lush greenery, and quiet landscapes just outside of central Ubud. It’s not some crazy hike, more like a peaceful, soul-cleansing stroll.

Along the way, you’ll pass tiny temples, local artists’ studios, and maybe a few cows munching lazily by the path. And the views, especially early in the morning, are insane, all misty valleys and endless palms.

Traveler Tip: Go just after sunrise for cooler temps and that magical, misty light. Also, pack water — there aren’t many places to grab a drink along the trail.

Visit Jatiluwih

If you’re dreaming of Bali’s lush, endless rice fields without the Instagram crowds breathing down your neck, Jatiluwih is your spot.

Located about 90 minutes northwest of Ubud, these rice terraces are so spectacular they’ve been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And once you see them in person, it’s pretty obvious why. It’s not just a quick stop-and-snap kind of place either, Jatiluwih stretches for miles, giving you space to breathe, wander, and genuinely soak it all in.

There are well-marked walking trails that lead you through the terraces, and some small cafes tucked along the paths where you can sip a coconut or grab a snack while staring out at some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in Bali.

Traveler Tip: If you have time, rent a scooter and drive the scenic route here. The small villages and countryside you pass through are half the magic of this adventure.

Explore the Ubud Art Market

Tucked right in the heart of Ubud is a place where Bali’s creativity is on full, colorful display, the Ubud Art Market.

It’s chaotic, vibrant, and 100% worth wandering through even if you’re not the “shopping type.” You’ll find everything from handwoven baskets and silk scarves to wooden carvings, paintings, and silver jewelry.

Some of the goods are mass-produced, sure, but if you dig a little deeper (and venture away from the main tourist thoroughfare), you can find some truly unique, locally crafted pieces.

Beyond just buying souvenirs, walking the Art Market gives you a peek into Bali’s artisan culture, something that’s been alive here for centuries.

Traveler Tip: Haggling is expected, and it can actually be fun if you treat it with a smile. Start your offer around 50% of the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle.

ATV & Rafting

If you thought Bali was all about serene temples and sunset cocktails, you’re in for a wild surprise.

Strap on your helmet, because ATV and whitewater rafting are two ridiculously fun ways to crank the adventure up a notch.

Most ATV tours wind through muddy jungle trails, rice fields, and even spooky cave tunnels. You will get dirty, it’s half the fun. Rafting trips, usually on the Ayung River, are a blast too. It’s not extreme-level rapids, but there’s enough bounce and splash to keep you laughing (and maybe screaming a little) the whole way down.

The cool part? Many companies combine the two into one epic day tour, ATV riding in the morning, rafting in the afternoon, and a well-earned nap by dinner time.

Traveler Tip: Bring an extra set of clothes (trust me) and leave anything valuable you can’t waterproof back at your hotel.

Where to Stay in Bali

The atmosphere varies from area to area in Bali, so make sure you choose to stay somewhere that more aligns with the stay you’re looking to have!

I tend to stay in Canggu, due to the conveniences in the area, and the fact I always visit for extended periods of time, getting a place through Airbnb.

Quick Tips for Visiting Bali

1. Grab, Gojek & Bolt

These ride-sharing apps are your go-to alternatives to Uber in Bali. Grab and Gojek are the most widely used, even for food delivery, while Bolt is a solid backup.

Just note: some areas (like Canggu beach or Uluwatu temples) restrict pick-up zones, so you might have to walk a bit.

2. Klook for Activity Discounts

This app can save you serious cash. Use Klook to book tours, private transfers, and attractions at discounted rates, super handy when comparing last-minute options on your phone.

It’s also the best way to pre-book your ride from the airport, because once you land in Bali, you’ll be swarmed by persistent taxi drivers. And yes, taxi scams at the airport are very real, don’t wing it!

3. XE & Eik Currency Apps

Exchange rates can be sneaky. These two currency converter apps (XE and Eik) are great for checking real-time rates and avoiding getting ripped off at money changers.

4. Bali Belly? Bring Charcoal Pills

It’s a rite of passage for some travelers. Pack activated charcoal pills, they can help if you get hit with a mild case. And if things get worse, don’t stress: Bali has several clinics that offer vitamin drips or even send medical staff straight to your villa.

5. Cash is Still King

While cards are accepted at most restaurants and hotels, local warungs, markets, and smaller businesses are cash only in Indoneisa. Always keep some Indonesian rupiah on hand, especially in more remote areas.

6. Use Telkomsel for SIMs or Airalo

Grab a local SIM from Telkomsel if you’re not using an eSIM. Telkomsel has the strongest coverage across the island, even in hilly or rural areas, just ensure your phone’s unlocked.

7. Don’t Underestimate Travel Times

Bali looks small on the map, but traffic says otherwise. A trip that looks like 30 minutes can easily double, especially during peak hours. Always plan with buffer time, especially when heading to the airport or between major towns.

Must Do Things to in Bali: What Must I Experience?

If you’re the type of traveler who wants to leave Bali knowing you truly soaked it in, the chaos, the calm, the culture, the coast, there are a few experiences that have to make your list.

These aren’t just random activities; they’re the ones that stuck with me, the ones I still think about when someone brings up Bali over dinner. So if you’re tight on time or just overwhelmed with options, start here:

Got questions about Bali? Drop them in the comments below — I’m happy to help out however I can!

Nusa Penida

This place is raw, rugged, and straight-up breathtaking. A day trip to Nusa Penida feels like stepping onto a different planet, with dramatic cliffs, insane viewpoints, and turquoise water that almost looks fake.

Kelingking Beach alone is worth the boat ride, but there’s so much more. Trust me: do the early morning fast boat, rent a driver, and thank yourself later.

Gili Islands

Okay, technically not Bali, but if you’re craving white sand, zero cars, and the slow island life, hopping over to the Gilis is worth every minute.

Whether it’s Gili T’s social buzz or Gili Meno’s honeymoon hush, there’s something magical about watching the sun dip while pedaling a bike along the shore. If you can swing an overnight stay, do it, a day trip barely scratches the surface.

Uluwatu Temple Show

This is more than just a show, it’s a whole experience. Perched on a cliff above the crashing ocean, watching the Kecak fire dance at sunset is Bali at its most dramatic.

The chants, the flames, the setting… it hits differently. Just keep your sunglasses in a bag, or better yet, don’t bring them at all. The monkeys here have sticky paws!

These three alone give you a taste of Bali’s best, one wild island adventure, one peaceful escape, and one spiritual-cultural spectacle that’ll stay with you long after you’ve left.

Happy & Safe Travels

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