Exploring Bali: Ultimate Travel Guide to Must-Visit Places and Things to Do

 Last Updated: 03 Aug, 2019 By Swati Mishra

While looking for the best places to visit in Bali, I came across a number of activities convincing me this popular destination is more than a romantic getaway. And I couldn’t resist writing a blog on it! As I was going through (virtually) the beauty of Bali, I kept wondering how can be a destination so bewitching and an all-rounder. Whether it is to relax with a Bintang (Indonesian Beer) in your hand while on the beach at Seminyak or practice yoga at the Four Seasons Resort at Sayan; get the best surfing experience at Uluwatu or relish traditional Balinese food at Warung Blanjong, you will definitely find your bliss at this top tourist destination of Indonesia. So, if you are planning a holiday, I bring to you a short travel guide to explore Bali comprising where to go and stay, what to eat and do, and a lot more. Let’s quickly scroll down to keep reading..

Top Places to Visit in Bali

1. Lovina: For a Laid-Back Holiday and Dolphin Watching

If you are amongst those who love to relax, explore and meet new people over a few beers, Lovina is where you can plan your escape. Being one of the largest resort areas in the north coast of Bali, Lovina let you relax on the stunning black sand beaches, enjoy dolphin watching, go snorkelling and scuba diving, enjoy hot springs at Banjar, canyoning at Sambangan and a Buddhist Temple tour to Brahmavihara-Arama. Also, the sunrises and sunsets of Lovina beach are a feast to the eyes and shouldn’t be missed.

Accommodation Options in Lovina

• Budget Hotel- Beach House Lovina
• Mid-Range Hotel- Lilin Lovina Beach Hotel
• Luxury Hotel- The Damai and Lovina Bali Resort

2. Canggu: For A Peaceful Break Away From the Crowd

A coastal village, Canggu is for all kinds of travellers especially those seeking tranquillity or a place to enjoy surfing. This place retaining its rural charm isn’t much crowded which makes it ideal for a peaceful escape when in Bali. You can simply sit at the beachside with a drink or two, watch the mesmerising sunset and enjoy the sound of the waves. If not this, the place is even good for refreshing swimming and exhilarating surfing activities.

Accommodation Options in Canggu

• Budget Hotel- Ecosfera Hotel
• Mid-Range Hotel- Aston Canggu Beach Resort
• Luxury Hotel- Ametis Villa

3. Ubud: To Witness Balinese Art & Culture and Indulge in Shopping

Yet another top place to visit in Bali, Ubud is home to Balinese art and culture. Take a stroll in Ubud to come across a number of art studios, galleries, local craft market selling textiles, paintings, jewellery, antiques, wood carvings and more. To take a glimpse of the Balinese art, make sure you visit the Agung Rai Museum of Art, Neka Art Museum, Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets, Museum Puri Lukisan and The Blanco Renaissance Museum. Also, if you wish to take home some pieces of art, don’t miss out on shopping from Ubud Art Market. Apart from this, you can take a walk along the rice terraces or end your day with a soothing meditation and massage session at Yoga Barn.

Accommodation Options in Ubud

• Budget Hotel- In Da Lodge
• Mid-Range Hotel- Biyukukung Suites & Spa
• Luxury Hotel- Adiwana Resort Jembawan and Hanging Gardens of Bali

4. Tanah Lot: To Marvel at Tanah Lot Temple and Watch the Mesmerising Sunset

Home to ancient Hindu temple Pura Tanah Lot (Tanah Lot Temple), Tanah Lot is also one of the beach holiday destinations in Bali. Perched on top of a large rock formation with constantly crashing water waves, Tanah Lot temple is among the seven sea temples situated in the coast of Bali. Also, the unique offshore settings and the backdrop of Tanah Lot is a wonderful for photography.

Best Travel Tip: The sunset is mesmerising here, so make sure you go early to catch the best spot to witness the spectacle.

Note: International tourists can’t enter any of the temples of the Tanah Lot complex but can take a stroll across the main temple at low tide.

Accommodation Options in Tanah Lot

• Budget Hotel- Dewi Sinta Hotel and Restaurant
• Mid Range Hotel- Natya Hotel Tanah Lot
• Luxury Hotel- The Kryamaha Villas

5. Seminyak: To Enjoy Night Partying at Some of the Best Venues and Indulge in Shopping

An upscale beach resort area, Seminyak is in the southwestern coast of Bali. The tourism place in Bali is home to some of the island’s most luxurious resorts. The streets here are lined with some of the high-end boutique hotels and fine dining restaurants. Also, the place offers a great nightlife scene at sophisticated bars, clubbing hotspots and chic entertainment venues. The visitors who wouldn’t like to indulge in partying or surfing, can simply sit by the beachside with a beer and watch the amazing sunset views. Also, one can head to attain blessings at the Pura Petitenget temple or indulge in shopping from the top boutiques including Biasa, Magali Pascal, and Bamboo Blonde, Kody & Ko, and more.

Accommodation Options in Seminyak

• Budget Hotel- Ping Hotel
• Mid-Range Hotel- L Hotel Seminyak and Ize Seminyak
• Luxury Hotel- The Legian and Koenokoeni Villa

6. Uluwatu: To Get the Best Surfing Experience amidst Five Surf Breaks

For the surfers, there can be no better place than Uluwatu in Bali for indulging in this thrilling activity. The waves of the beach comprise the five surf breaks and this is the reason why you should visit Uluwatu if you love surfing. So, bring your board and test your surfing skills. In addition to this, located at a short distance from Uluwatu, Padang Padang Beach (also known as Taplau) is yet another important surfing destination in Bali which you can visit. If you aren’t an adventure enthusiast, the place is ideal for simply relaxing at the beachside with a beautiful view. You can also head to visit tourist attractions like Uluwatu Temple that has ornate architecture and is renowned for its monkey population.

Accommodation Options in Uluwatu

• Budget Hotels- Bukit Surf Villa
• Mid-Range Hotels- Adila Bali and Padang Padang Inn
• Luxury Hotels- Suarga Padang Padang and Klapa Resort

7. Nusa Lembongan: To Witness a Slower-Paced Bali and Try a Variety of Fun Activities

If you are looking to witness a slower-paced Bali, Nusa Lembongan is a place that you shouldn’t miss adding to your Bali travel itinerary. With no hawkers and traffic, Nusa Lembongan is one of the most beautiful places in Bali that offers plenty of experiences to the tourists. If you have the zeal for indulging in some adventure, you can try some of the activities like surfing at Mushroom Bay; go for snorkelling, diving or cruise ride; witness the Devil’s Tears rock outcrop and discover the discover the hidden dream beach.

Accommodation Options in Nusa Lembongan

• Budget Hotel: The Ocean Sunset Villas Ceningan
• Mid-range Hotel: Poh Manias
• Luxury Hotel: Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Day Spa

8. Green Bowl Beach: To Sit, Relax and Enjoy the Solitariness at the Secluded Beach

If you are looking for a lesser-visited or hidden beach in Bali, head to Green Bowl Beach in Ungasan. Being a secluded beach, it attracts only water adventure sports junkies and die-hard surfers. But if you are not fond of adventure and just want a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the solitude, you can visit some of the limestone caves that are present on the beach.

Accommodation Options on Green Bowl Beach

• Budget Hotel: Pandawa Hill Resort
• Mid-range Hotel: Ungasan Bay View Hotel & Convention
• Luxury Hotel: The Ungasan and Karma Kandara

9. Sanur: To Witness the Night Market Amidst the Relaxed Coastal Ambience

A seaside town, Sanur is yet another place to consider when looking for place to see in Bali. With a relaxed coastal ambience, Sanur manages to cling on to its charm and uniqueness of art and culture. On visiting Sanur, make sure you visit the night market, which is a perfect place to trya diverse range of Balinese meal. Also, heading to Sanur Beach is something that you shouldn’t miss where you can watch the beautiful view of sunrise; enjoy wind and kite surfing; glass bottom boat ride; kayaking; parasailing; and fishing.

Accommodation Options in Sanur

• Budget Hotel- Hotel Kesumasari
• Mid-range Hotel- Tamukami Hotel
• Luxury Hotel- Maya Sanur Resort & Spa

10. Nusa Dua: For a Romantic and Adveturous Getaway with Your Partner

Well, writing about the places to visit in Bali, we cannot miss out on talking about its romantic side. And if you are planning to visit this most preferred honeymoon destination in the world with your significant other, don’t miss out on Nusa Dua that ticks all the classic honeymoon itinerary boxes. With romantic five-star villas offering relaxing spas, candle-lit dinner for couples, manicured beaches overlooking golf courses, your romantic getaway to Nusa Dua will be a cozy one. Also, the place offers a number of water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing, parasailing where you and your partner can see adventurous side of each other.

Accommodation Options in Nusa Dua

• Budget Hotel- Hotel Santika Siligita Nusa Dua
• Mid-Range Hotel- The Bali Khama a Beach Resort & Spa
• Luxury Hotel- Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Resort

Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia

11. Indulge in a Myriad of Thrilling Activities at Kintamani

Sitting at the base of Mount Batur, Kintamani is the highest point reaching up to 5,633 ft/1716 m where travellers can’t seem to quit climbing. Reaching the top, it is the mesmerising view of the sunrise over Lake Batur which does justification to the hiking. The climb is doable in two to four hours depending on your fitness level. If hiking is not what you look for, Kintamani has covered you with other thrilling activities including bike and cycle tour, ATV ride for a sightseeing tour, kayaking, canoeing. At the hot springs you can soak your sore muscles and feel relaxed. Also, you can even make your dream of a helicopter flight come true that will give you a breathtaking view of the iconic Tanah Lot Temple and the rugged terrain of Kintamani area.

12. Book a Luxury Stay at the Four Seasons Resort at Sayan

How about a luxury stay when holidaying in Bali? Well, even though there are many luxurious resorts and hotels in Bali but booking a stay at the Four Season Resort at Sayan would give you a wholesome travel experience to cherish for a lifetime. Located at a distance of approx 6 km from Ubud, the resort is surrounded by rainforest and rice terrace making it an ultimate place to zen out. The places have sacred energy which lets you spend your days in a complete bliss where you can feel the symphony of the river, gentle breezes and of the wildlife. Comprising river-view bedrooms and private swimming pools, sacred river spa, wellness centre, private rafting on River Ayung, Four Season Resort will make your stay a tranquil one by taking you close to the heart and soul of Bali.

13. Spend Time Playing With Monkeys at Ubud Monkey Forest

Also known as Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, the forest is one of the top tourist attractions especially for the monkey lovers and photographers. It is one of the top attractions in this tourist town and a must-see for animal lovers and photographers. Even though the grey long-tailed macaques are the centre of attraction but the evocative jungle setting is too alluring where these monkeys are seen to be roaming carefree. A visit to Ubud Monkey Forest will not just let you play with the notorious monkeys but also explore other points of tourist interests like the three temples of Pura Dalem Agung; Pura Beji Temple; and Pura Prajapati Temple. You can also witness the aesthetic art and culture by visiting Agung Rai Museum of Art and Blanco Renaissance Museum.

14. Buy Some Prettiest Souvenirs or Gifts in Mas

Perhaps one of the most interesting parts of visiting a new place is buying things that you can take home as souvenirs or gifts. When it is about shopping in Bali, there are many places where you can get the best things to take back home. Of all, Mas is one such destination that boasts of intricate wood carvings like beautiful wooden boxes, showpieces, statues and more. On visiting the place, I would recommend you to buy a hand-carved wooden mask that represents the Balinese culture. The famous spots in Mas to buy the prettiest souvenirs and gifts are Nyana & Tilem Gallery and I.B Sutarja Mask Carver Gallery.

15. Take a Dip in the Holy Waters of Tirta Empul Temple

If you are planning for family holidays in Bali, then Tirta Empul Temple is a place not to be missed. Located in the village of Manukaya, near the town of Tampaksiring, Tirta Empul Temple is one of the top tourist attractions in Bali that features pools that are filled with fountains. The water here is believed to be sacred and worshippers and tourists from all over the world come to marvel at the beauty of the place and bathe in the holy springs of Tirta Empul.

16. Take a Tour and Relish Some Delicious Bites at Pod Chocolate Factory

The thought of Chocolate may not appear in your mind when you think about Bali but the Indonesian destination is one of the top producers of cocoa in the world. And so for a unique experience in Bali, head to the Pod Chocolate Factory which is yet another place of interest. You and your kids can relish some delicious bites and also learn about how cocoa is grown, harvested. Your kids will have the chance to also learn how tempting chocolates are made. As you indulge in a chocolate tour you can buy some of the delicious treats as a souvenir of your trip.

17. Get the Best Nightlife Experience at Kuta Beach

For night party lovers, there can be no better place than Kuta Beach in Bali. Home to entertainment venues, upscale bars and pubs and relaxing cafes, Kuta Beach offers a great party experience to those looking for fun night-time diversion. The party scenes at Kuta Beach keep going till early morning and it is more about grabbing a drink and meeting new people. Jalan Kartika Plaza and the main beach street of Jalan Pantai Kuta are the two great spots where Kuta nightlife scene comes alive. Sky Garden Bali, Bounty Discotheque, Engine Room, Paddy’s Pub are some other places where one can make the most of night party in Kuta.

18. Enjoy Wreck Diving at Tulamben

The beaches of Bali are a beauty but there is more than what meets the eye. There are many beaches where adventure junkies can dive in but for those who wish to try wreck diving need to come to Tulamben. Home to beautiful coral and exotic fish species, Tulamben is best for underwater photography, as one can capture the best shot of rare marine life. The main diving site of Tulamben is USAT Liberty shipwreck which draws the attention of many divers from across the world. Among the corals, you can expect regular sightings of sea turtles, parrotfish, cod and more. The other diving spots in Tulamben include Boga Shipwreck, Suci Palace and Tulamben Beach.

19. Enjoy Safari at Bali Marine and Safari Park

Yet another attraction for kids, Bali Marine and Safari Park offers a fun day out when holidaying in Bali. It is one of the island’s largest and most visited theme parks which has a collection of best flora and fauna in Indonesia. On visiting the park, you will be greeted with approx 60 different species of animals roaming freely in their natural habitat. Enjoy a bus safari ride, watch elephant talent shows, cuddle with baby orangutans and more. Also, you can have a blast with your children at the adjacent water and amusement park. In addition to this, there are dance and musical shows taking place in the complex throughout the day which are fun to watch.

20. Relish Traditional Balinese Food at Warung Blanjong

If you are in Bali and looking to savour Balinese Food, then head to Warung Blanjong in Sanur. Bali has a variety of delicious local specialities that you would hardly find anywhere else in Indonesia. So why not spend some time savouring the real Balinese Food around the island. Of all the other places, I would recommend you to head to Warung Blanjong in Sanur. Being one of the best places to try the local bites, Warung Blanjong offers dishes like Siap Betutu, roasted chicken with local herbs, and Pepes Be Pasih, a fish dish wrapped in banana leaves and Siap Base Kalas, chicken in lemongrass sauce and spices. The restaurant also serves international dishes like sandwiches, burgers, pasta and chips.

Best Time to Visit Bali

Even though Bali is a year-round destination, the best time to plan a trip would be between April and October. During these months the weather is dry which makes it favourable to visit sightseeing places in Bali and indulge in a number of water sports and other fun-filled activities.

How to Reach Bali?

Bali has its own airport called Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport. It is well-connected with direct international flights from United States, Europe, Australia and most Asian countries with the international airlines like Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Dragonair, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines and more.

With this our virtual tour to Bali comes to an end and I hope you are done deciding that you are going to Bali with this list in mind, right away! If we have missed out on something, please suggest in the comment section below. We would love to hear from you.

Also, besides Bali if you need assistance in visiting any other Indonesian destination, then Tour My India is just a call away. You can contact us at +919212553108 and we are all ears to customize your Indonesia Holiday Package just the way you want it. You can even drop your queries at info@tourmyindia.com.

Published: 02 Aug, 2019By Swati Mishra