Bali isn’t just a place you see in photos. It’s sooooo much more!
And honestly? No matter how many times I go (and I’ve lost count by now!), Bali always finds a way to surprise me. Having family there means
I’ve experienced it all! The big tourist highlights and the hidden local spots you wouldn’t stumble on by accident.
From partying at beach clubs like Finns until sunset, to riding scooters through rice fields, to (yep, true story) having my water bottle stolen by a very cheeky monkey, every trip has been packed with memories I’ll never forget.
Some polished and glamorous, others hilarious and totally unexpected, but that’s what makes Bali so special.
That’s why I put together this full list of the top 32 unmissable things to do in Bali, real experiences, local tips, and unmissable spots on the island.
P.S. Some of these activities are so popular you’ll definitely want to pre-book. I’ll flag those for you too!
⏰ Short on time?
Where to Stay in Bali
($) The Bed By The Sea (Canggu)
($$) Alaya Resort (Ubud)
($$$) Potato Head Suites (Seminyak)
View more hotels here Must-Do Activities in Bali
– Tanah Lot at Sunset
– Mount Batur Sunrise Hike
– Nusa Penida Day Trip
– Tegallalang Rice Terraces stroll + coconut stop
– Traditional Balinese cooking class
Don’t wait till you land! Pre-book your Bali airport transfer
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Watch the Sunset at Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple sits dramatically on a cliff edge, offering one of the best sunset views in Bali. After exploring the temple grounds (watch your stuff, cheeky monkeys roam free!), grab a seat for the famous Kecak fire dance. It’s a hypnotic performance of chanting, dance, and flames with the Indian Ocean as your backdrop. Tickets for the dance are around 150,000 IDR.
👉 Book a Uluwatu sunset tour ahead here if you want reserved seating because they go fast!
Visit the Mother Temple, Besakih
Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, Besakih is Bali’s holiest and largest temple complex. You’ll need a sarong (or rent one there), and hiring a local guide (about 100,000 IDR) is totally worth it to understand the rich symbolism and traditions. Go in the morning for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
Explore Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most photographed temples, built on a rock offshore. Visit during low tide to walk closer and soak up the magic. Honestly, sunset is when it’s at its dreamiest. Entrance fees are around 60,000 IDR. It does get busy, but wander to the nearby clifftops for quieter spots and stunning photos.
Wander the Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Yes, it’s popular, but these green cascading terraces are still breathtaking in person. Entry is about 15,000 IDR. You can walk the narrow paths between the fields and even hop on one of those iconic swings (extra 100,000 IDR if you want a photo, and yes, you can hire a flying dress too). Go early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.
👉 I would recommend these tickets if you want to pre purchase.
Watch Sunset at Rock Bar, Uluwatu
This clifftop bar literally carved into the rocks is famous for a reason. Get there early (around 4:30 pm) to grab a spot for sunset. Drinks aren’t cheap but the view and atmosphere are worth the splurge.
Hike Mount Batur for Sunrise
This trek is for early risers. You’ll start hiking at 2 or 3 am to reach the summit in time for sunrise. Watching the clouds part and the sun burst over the horizon is pure magic. It gets chilly before dawn, so pack a jacket. Guided treks cost around 500,000–700,000 IDR and they usually include breakfast.
👉 Pre-book your Mount Batur sunrise hike here because spots fill up fast!
Swim at Sekumpul Waterfalls
Arguably Bali’s most beautiful waterfall, Sekumpul is a little adventure to reach. Expect steep steps and a river crossing. Entry plus a local guide will cost about 200,000 IDR. Once you’re standing at the base with jungle all around and mist on your face, you’ll know it was worth every step.
Learn to Surf at Kuta Beach
First time on a board? Kuta’s rolling waves are perfect for beginners. You can rent a surfboard right on the beach (around 50,000–75,000 IDR/hour) or take a 2-hour surf lesson for about 300,000 IDR. Yes, Kuta is busy and chaotic, but there’s no better feeling than catching your first wave in Bali.
Snorkel in Amed
This peaceful fishing village on Bali’s east coast is a snorkelling dream. Just offshore, you’ll find coral gardens and even the Japanese Shipwreck dive site. Equipment rentals are cheap (about 50,000 IDR), and many hotels offer guided snorkel tours.
Take a Nusa Penida Day Trip
Nusa Penida’s landscapes are wild, dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and epic viewpoints. You’ll definitely recognise Kelingking Beach (“the T-Rex beach”) from Instagram. A day trip costs about 700,000–900,000 IDR and usually includes ferry tickets, transport around the island, and lunch.
👉 Book your Nusa Penida ferry and day tour here to avoid a huge headache later.
Relax on Nusa Dua Beach
If you’re craving calm waters and a low-key beach day, Nusa Dua is my top pick. It’s perfect for swimming without waves crashing over you, and the beach is super clean. Resorts line the coast, but you can also find free access areas. If you want pure relaxation after busy sightseeing days, I’d suggest spending a morning here.
Chill at Finns Beach Club
If you’re looking for the ultimate Bali beach club experience, Finns is it. Daybeds right over the pool, ocean views, DJs spinning all day. It’s lively but still somehow chill. Entry is free, but daybeds and minimum spends apply (around 600,000 IDR+). Get there by 11 am to snag a good spot.
Experience a Balinese Cooking Class
If you love food (who doesn’t?), a cooking class is one of the most fun ways to dive into Balinese culture. Most classes include a local market visit too. Prices are around 400,000–600,000 IDR.
👉 Book your Bali cooking class here because they sell out during high season.
Visit the Floating Temple at Ulun Danu Beratan
Up in the cooler mountains near Bedugul, this lakeside temple looks like it’s floating when the water is high. It’s serene, misty, and less crowded if you visit early. Entrance is about 75,000 IDR.
Try White Water Rafting on the Ayung River
If you want a mix of adventure and scenery, I’d suggest rafting down the Ayung River. It’s not super hardcore, perfect for beginners, but the jungle views are insane. Expect to pay around 500,000 IDR for a half-day trip, including pickup, gear, and lunch.
Meditate at a Silent Retreat
Want to totally disconnect? You can do that in Bali. There are silent retreats tucked away in Bali’s jungles. Places like Bali Silent Retreat near Tabanan offer day passes for around 400,000 IDR including meals and meditation sessions.
Party in Kuta
Kuta gets a bad rap, but honestly, if you’re in the mood for a wild night out, it’s the place to be. Think cheap drinks, loud music, dancing barefoot on the beach at 2 am.
Walk Through the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud
Yes, it’s touristy, but honestly, it’s also hilarious. Hundreds of cheeky monkeys roam the temple ruins and jungle paths. Entrance is about 80,000 IDR (tickets here). Keep your sunglasses, hats, and snacks hidden. These little guys are professionals at grabbing anything loose.
Hunt for Treasures at Ubud Art Market
I always recommend visitors save shopping for Ubud. It’s where you’ll find woven bags, dreamcatchers, handmade jewellery, and cute dresses. It’s touristy but honestly still worth a wander.
Visit Tirta Empul Temple
This beautiful water temple near Ubud is famous for its holy springs. Locals and visitors line up to bathe under the fountains for a spiritual cleansing. Entrance is around 50,000 IDR, and you’ll need a sarong (they rent them at the entrance). Visit early morning to avoid tour groups. It’s much more peaceful.
👉 Bamboo Hotels to Stay in Bali
($) Bambu Indah
($$) Hideout Bali
($$$) Veluvana Bali
Shop at Seminyak’s Boutiques
If you’re into fashion, Seminyak is the place. Think linen dresses, woven sandals, stylish hats, all the Bali holiday vibes. Stroll Jalan Kayu Aya (Eat Street) where the best shops are. Be warned, prices here can be Australian-level sometimes.
Dive at Menjangan Island
Way up north near West Bali National Park, Menjangan has some of the clearest water and vibrant coral reefs I’ve ever seen in Bali. It’s quieter than the southern spots, so diving and snorkelling here feel super peaceful.
👉 Join a dive or snorkel tour for about 900,000–1,200,000 IDR, which usually includes transport and gear. Check out this one.
Indulge in a Spa Day in Seminyak
You can’t come to Bali and skip a massage. I recommend setting aside a full afternoon for it. A 90-minute Balinese massage in Seminyak costs around 250,000–400,000 IDR, and many spas offer flower baths too. Book in advance at nicer places like Spring Spa or Bodyworks during peak seasons.
Join a Yoga Class in Ubud
Whether you’re a hardcore yogi or just want to stretch after your flight, Ubud’s yoga scene is next level. Places like The Yoga Barn offer everything from sunrise vinyasa to sound healing sessions. Drop in for a morning class. Prices are about 130,000–150,000 IDR per session.
👉 We also recommend this Puppy Yoga Class
Spend the day and night at a Beach Club
Bali is famous for all kinds of Beach Clubs! Bonfires, live DJs, and colourful beanbags right in the sand. So many options in Bali!
Places like to La Brisa or The Lawn around sunset are great. Or splurge a little and go to Savaya!
Visit Sukawati Art Market
Looking for cheaper souvenirs? Sukawati is less polished than Ubud but prices are way better. It’s more local too. You can grab paintings, statues, fabrics, and jewellery for a fraction of Seminyak prices if you don’t mind a little digging.
Feast at Jimbaran Bay
Picture this: a table right on the sand, your feet in the cool beach, a seafood platter arriving as the sun dips behind the ocean. Fresh fish, prawns, squid, all grilled perfectly. Book a table at Menega Cafe if you want the classic experience.
Explore the Bali Swing Parks
Sure, it’s touristy, but it’s also ridiculously fun. Giant jungle swings, bird nests, heart-shaped photo spots. If you lean into the cheesiness, it’s honestly a good time. Entrance plus unlimited swings costs around 200,000–350,000 IDR (~$13–$23).
👉 Book a Bali Swing experience here if you want skip-the-line entry.
👉 Watch my experience at the Bali Swing at Tegalalang Rice Terrace.
Bike Around Sidemen Valley
Sidemen feels like the Bali of 30 years ago: lush rice paddies, small villages, mountain views. Rent a bike for around 50,000 IDR/day and just explore at your own pace. I recommend Sidemen if you’re craving a break from the busy tourist trail.
Snap a Photo at Pura Lempuyang (Heaven’s Gate)
You’ve definitely seen the famous photo: a split gate framing Mount Agung. Be warned, it’s super popular and can have very long queues. Go early (like sunrise early) if you want a real reflection photo without standing in line for hours.
Entrance is donation-based, but there’s a mandatory shuttle up for about 45,000 IDR.
Eat at a Local Warung
Skip the fancy cafes for a night and eat at a simple local warung. Try Nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goreng (fried noodles), sate skewers. Meals usually cost between 20,000–50,000 IDR. I always recommend asking your hotel where their staff eat.
Take a Bali Instagram Tour
If you want to hit multiple famous photo spots (think Handara Gate, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, Lempuyang Temple), it’s worth booking a day tour with a driver who knows all the best angles.
👉 Tip: Pre-book your private Instagram highlights tour here to save time and energy.
👉 Read Next: Bali Travel Guide for First Timers!
FAQ on Visiting Bali
May to September (dry season) is ideal. I’d suggest May or September for great weather without insane crowds.
You could, but I would suggest getting an eSIM. I use one when I go to Bali and it’s so much easier. Plus you’ll need data for apps like Gojek.
I always recommend hiring a private driver for sightseeing days. Scooter rental is also fun if you’re confident (and licensed).
Definitely for popular things like Nusa Penida tours, Mount Batur treks, and nicer beach clubs, especially in high season.
A local, family-run restaurant. Great for authentic food, way cheaper than touristy cafes.
Not mandatory, but rounding up bills or tipping 5–10% is really appreciated by locals.
Lightweight clothes, swimsuits, flip flops, sneakers for exploring, and a sarong for temple visits.
Yes. Credit cards are accepted at bigger places, but you’ll need cash for taxis, warungs, and market shopping.
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