bali hookup travel

11 Things You Need to Know About Dating in Bali

With its romantic sunsets, fancy cliffside restaurants, exotic beaches , and vibrant nightlife, you’re having the time of your life in Bali—if only you had someone to share it with. Lucky for you, it’s not hard meeting and dating someone in Bali, whether it’s fellow tourists or locals. From what to expect on the first date to privacy policies, discover important things you need to know about dating in Bali.

The stereotype.

Locals who date bule (Indonesian slang for “foreigners,” especially Caucasian foreigners) are often seen as gold diggers or bed-warmers who will ask you to provide for them and their entire family. There are cases that confirm this prejudice, but there are many decent Indonesian men and women with financial independence who wouldn’t expect material things from you. But even if they do ask for something, do not quickly write it off as an act of financial exploitation, especially when it comes from women. It’s an acknowledged fact that the average Indonesian workers earn much less than those from developed countries, and some may simply perceive that they’re just asking for a scratch on the back. Be open and discuss these topics before things got too complicated.

First Dates

Don’t expect much on the first (few) dates, as many locals—especially women—are not used to getting intimate too quickly. Even if they like you, some will likely set some boundaries at first, especially with physical contact. If you’re looking for more than just a hookup, be prepared to invest more time going on a few dates before making advances. Don’t force it, otherwise you’ll risk being labeled as a sexual predator and scare her away.

The Families

No matter how old they are, most Indonesians are close with their families. Living with your parents at age 30 is not necessarily a sign of immaturity or even financial dependence—that’s just the way it is. Moving out is simply not something many Indonesian adults pursue, and they learn to adjust to adult life along with their families, nuclear or extended.

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So if your Indonesian girlfriend or boyfriend talks about you with his or her mom, do not feel like your partner perceives the relationship as super serious and expects marriage anytime soon. Do not be alarmed by your partner’s closeness with family, but do respect that sacred bond.

Traditions and Daily Life

If you’re dating a Balinese local, be mindful of his of her ways of life. Many Balinese Hindu, no matter how modern their lives or mindsets are, still adhere strictly to ancient traditions , such as daily offerings and prayers. Respect their traditions and daily routines, and be thoughtful enough to make plans accordingly. Understand that daily rituals and occasional ceremonies have been a part of their entire lives, and those rituals are more important for them to attend than hanging out with a girlfriend or boyfriend. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t actually like you.

Privacy Policies

A lot of foreigners can attest to these tendencies, but as with everything else, try not to generalize . If you find someone you’re dating in Bali glaring at your screen when you’re on your phone, or even scrolling through your chats, don’t judge them as you would people in Western cultures. Many Indonesians are raised in tight communities, and privacy may not have the same meaning for them. If you’re uncomfortable with this kind of habit, do communicate, instead of hiding your phone or creating an 18-digit password—they’ll find it.

Their Friendliness

Balinese are generally very friendly people. If you seem lost or confused, they’ll ask where you’re going and try to help. Those are not signs that they’re attracted to you; they’re just very kind people. If a Balinese man or woman helps take you to your destination, do not perceive it as a green light to make sexual advances. Find someone who’s actually interested.

Compared to other Indonesian regions, Bali is relatively loose in terms of social constrictions on public displays of affection. While even holding hands is frowned upon in other towns, Balinese are used to seeing tourists hug or even kiss lightly in public. But that doesn’t mean they are comfortable being the ones doing it. Be thoughtful enough to ask how they feel about holding hands while waking down the streets, or refrain yourself from public displays of affection if you see any signs of discomfort.

Their Religiosity

Despite being notoriously spiritual, many Balinese people, especially those in the younger generation, practice a modern and moderate outlook on things. They are not holy virgins who will expect you to marry them after one night. It’s never okay to take advantage of other people, but you’re missing out on a lot if you limit your experiences by thinking that their rigorous spirituality will hinder Balinese people from having a fun and mutually rewarding relationship.

Meeting People

While Bali’s lively nightlife scene is tempting, there are other places to meet great people to date, especially if you’re looking for more than just brief hookups. If you’re into surfing, for example, stay at a surfer’s hostel and socialize there. If you think people who do yoga are hot, join some classes at your chosen studio.

Online Dating

Thanks to Tinder and other similar platforms, finding potential dates is now much easier. You can use Tinder to interact with and eventually meet both fellow foreigners and locals. Just be honest in saying what you’re looking for, and if you’re dating a local, tell him or her the length of your stay, as some may prefer a long-term relationship.

When on a Date

If you’re dating a local woman, be ready to pay for the first date (or in some cases, for all dates). Again, this doesn’t show dependence or exploitation, it’s just how things have been for them. Men are expected to be breadwinners and providers, even in casual relationships. Of course, this doesn’t go for all women, and the role is often negotiable—just communicate.

Also, try not to be too strict with time. Balinese did not grow up with bustling city lives, where time is money and there is not a second to waste. If they show up five minutes late on a date, that doesn’t necessarily mean they are sloppy and irresponsible. Use this buffer time to chill and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.

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3 Best Nightlife Areas For Singles In Bali

If you are new to the nightlife scene in Bali, you should know that it has a lot to offer for single guys.

You can find a wide range of entertainments from nightclubs to the beach bars to the girlie bars… But what makes Bali a unique night experience is a large number of beautiful girls:

• Indonesian girls from all over the country, not only Balinese girls.
• East European girls, mostly from Ukranian and Russia.
• African women.
• A lot of horny Aussie and British women.

Yes, the nightlife is truly international, and you’ll have many chances to pick up and get laid in Bali .

If you are looking for a temporary girlfriend in Bali , you don’t want to search in a club in Kuta. The girls can’t be trusted.

To avoid being overwhelmed by the possibilities, I’ve chosen the best nightlife areas where every single guy should go out at night to have a blast.

It’ll help you decide where to party, show you the kind of atmosphere to expect and how much is going to cost you.

1. Nightlife In Kuta

2. nightlife in legian, 3. nightlife in seminyak, is easy to hookups with singles in bali , bali nightlife map for singles.

Kuta nightlife is centered on a stretch of road with pubs, nightclubs, beach bars, souvenir shops, restaurants, you got the idea.

It’s a second area popular with backpackers and people on a budget, consider it an under 27 years old of age. If you are young and don’t mind to drink from a plastic glass, Kuta is the place for you.

The positive side is the low drinks price, beer is around 40.000 Rupiah and cocktails start at 80.000. With all the alcohol going around in Kuta, it’s easy to hook up with Indonesian and foreign women, especially after midnight, when everyone is wasted.

Most nightclubs don’t have an entrance fee, no door policy, the atmosphere is laid back while the loud music keeps the youngsters entertained.

Near the Ground Zero Monument there are the majority of venues, but keep in mind that this area is popular with sex workers after midnight. If a girl in the street smile at you, most probably she is after your wallet.

The best places to party and meet girls are:

•  Sky Garden

This is the biggest club in Bali with 6 different music rooms. The vibe is excellent, a great variety of music and youngsters in their 20s. The majority are Australians follow by Indonesians. Most local girls are prostitutes.

The entrance is free, but the drinks slightly expensive.

• Engine Room

Excellent club with a small room in front, but a bigger one in the back where the real action takes place. Many Australian single girls are looking for fun.

•  Red Ruby

A great club with a chilled atmosphere suitable for single men in their 30s. The girls are half prostitutes and half normal girls.

•  Boshe VVIP Club

This club is for Asian guys. The set up is a table and sofa where groups of people party together. The girls are mostly hookers and hostesses from the nearby KTV.

Next to Kuta, there is a village called Legian. It’s hard to separate the two because the towns don’t have clear boundaries. But that doesn’t matter, what matter is the nightlife.

In this area, you’ll find the majority of the crowd to be families or singles in their 30s-40s. There are pubs, open-air sports bars and many beaches clubs, just a few nightclubs.

The beach clubs are on the higher end of prices, but the crowd is more mature and presentable. No drank people all over the place like in Kuta.

You can find Eastern Europe women on this side of Bali, but keep in mind a few are hookers.

The best places to hookup are:

•  Pyramid Club

After hours clubs that get busy when all other discos close. Foreign girls wasted, easy to pick up but at your own risk or cheap hookers, not the best looking.

Restaurant on level 1 and 2, a dance club on level 3. The crowd is mostly in their 30s, mixed between westerners and Indonesian. It is on the higher end on price, but they have excellent drink promotions 🙂

This part of Bali has a high-end crowd because is where the luxury hotels and Villas are located.

The area is much less touristic than Kuta and Legian, and quiet during weekdays. But on weekends is where the hottest girls in Bali go to party.

To approach these women, you need to dress well and be confident in pulling a phone number…

I usually have a short conversation, joke a bit around and ask for the number. I might call the her the next day, but I rarely give up the night for one girl.

The prices are stiff in Seminyak, some clubs have an entry fee and you need to wear shoes and trousers to get in.

There are several types of venues for most tastes:

• Beachfront bars and clubs: Mrs Sippy ,  Woo Bar ,  Kudeta.
• Clubs: Red Carpet Champagne Bar ,  Rumors , La Favela.

For the top club in Seminyak where the rich meet on weekends, visit Mirror which looks like a Catholic church. Pretty Cool! This place is the best to pick up hot girls from Jakarta hot for action, but make sure to have plenty of cash. They like to be impressed.

Bali is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia where girls go to have fun, get drunk and hopefully getting laid. Yes, they hope you pick them up and give a good night of sex.

Being easy or not depends a lot from you. If you can get laid in your home country, in Bali, you’ll find most probably too easy. But hey, there is nothing to complain.

Most of the girls you’ll meet – either foreigners or Indonesians – are in Bali for the same reason: to get laid.

Before midnight when most girls are sober, it takes longer conversations and convincing to get down to business. But after midnight, when they start to feel dizzy, they are going to get horny pretty fast.

In most cases, you only need to go with the flow. They will follow you to your room without any drama.

This concludes this guide about Bali nightlife for singles. Have Fun!

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Hi, my name is Rocco. If you want to learn how to meet Asian women and plan unforgettable holidays, then stick around. I've helped thousands of travelers with their journey.

Best Nightclubs and Bars to Meet Girls in Bali (2023)

8 comments to '' Best Nightclubs and Bars to Meet Girls in Bali (2023) "

Not sure when the last time you went to La Favela was but definitely in 2018 high season more like 30% + Javanese prostitutes now.

Visiting Bali in April or May stay there for 25 days. Intrested to have a English speaking girl for company. Please advise.

So you want to dump the girl after 25 days you left Bali?

Just walk on street! they will find you.

A MESSAGE TO FOREIGNERS: The Indonesian Government has just released the terrorist Abu Bakar Baasyir, the Islamic cleric who ordered the bombing of Bali in 2002. Please be aware of a few facts before planning travel to Bali. 1. Bali is the most visited tourist attraction in Indonesia by foreigners. 2. When the President Jokowi was elected Mayor of Solo, Abu Bakar was a major influence in that community and approved of Jokowi as Mayor. 3. Since the bombing of Bali the number of Muslims moving to the island for work has increased 10 fold, the government has been subsidizing the construction of Mosques on the island for the past 10 years. 4. Some of the most recent ministerial appointments of Indonesia have been and are sympathetic to Abu Bakar's plight. 5. If the International community is stupid enough to believe that after being allowed to return to his school Abu Bakar will not plan and or order another act of terrorism then they are delusional. 6. Since the Bali bombing Indonesia has become MORE fundamentalist, not less. 7. While in prison Abu Bakar pledged allegiance to ISIS, an act that would put any other Indonesian behind bars but instead of extending Abu Bakar's sentence, they chose to release him. While this does not guarantee another act of terrorism will occur it also does not guarantee that the Government of Indonesia will prevent another act of terrorism from occurring in Bali. I was on the same flight with with many members of Rugby sides, some of whom died in the bombing, BE SMART, BE SAFE!

Great review, thanks! I've checked Seeking.com , just the free version for now (that only allows to look at girl's profiles and photos). I was pleasantly surprised to see so many hotties, especially young ones in their early 20s. Since I'm only in Bali for a short time, it seems like a good way for me to get a companion during my trip. Unfortunately, the membership fee is quite expensive at 80 euros. I can afford it, but before paying, I'm wondering if anyone has tried it and if they would be kind enough to give a quick feedback. Does it work well? Do the girls reply to your messages? Are they interested with short-time arrangement? For your info, I'm 42, white, average looking (but slim, tall, and I have all my hair).

From my experience yes, they replied and have good convo also. Some of them looking for short term, there is lots of arrangement you can find depends on what you want, you will find it I hit ssome girls from seeking

Went to La Favela September 2023. Mostly foreign tourists, a fair number of fat ugly Indonesian girls who were mostly unfriendly and too busy smoking to bother with. I went to most of the clubs recommended as places to pick up girls and they were nearly all half empty with almost no local girls. Don't bother, go to Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, anywhere else basically.

How To Plan an Ultimate Bali Girls Trip

We’ve put together our list of not to be missed activities to do with your BFFs when you are holidaying in Bali together.

Plan your Bali Girls Trip in 15 Steps

Bali is the ultimate destination to get your girlfriends together & getaway and enjoy all of the shopping, sun, spas & unique hospitality that the island has to offer!

We’ve put together our list of not to be missed activities to do with your BFFs when you are holidaying in Bali together…

Table of Contents

Hire Your Group a Villa

Villas come in all sizes so it’s easy to find one for your group no matter how many of you there are. Staying in a villa gives you a chance to have your own private area & pool, and to really make the most of your time together!

See some of our favourite villas in Seminyak here.

Visit a Bali Beach Club

Nothing quite says ‘girls trip’ like throwing on the swimmers and sipping, nibbling & splashing your day away at an epic Bali Beach Club .

Finns Beach Club will have your girl gang sorted no matter the size of your group. You can either choose from a private & intimate day or get amongst the party crowd! There are daybeds to relax on or get funky on the VIP party platform. With 4 restaurants & swim-up bars to choose from, your group can spend the whole day enjoying the fun vibes of this epic venue! There is even a fantastic retail store featuring local & international designers if you fancy some shopping too. Enjoy the 170m of absolute beachfront and all the fun that Finns has to offer.

Make your bookings at Finns Beach Club here.

Wine Down in the Garden at Sababay

Spend an afternoon wine pairing picnic style at Sababay winery.

Located in Keramas (just 20 minutes from Sanur ) is the Sababay wine factory. Here you can take a tour through the factory & learn about winemaking in Bali.

After your tour, head down to the garden to enjoy a picnic-style wine-pairing session. The “wine down” in the garden is the perfect activity to do with your girlfriends during a Bali trip.

Book your winery visit here.

Turn back time with a group Botox appointment at MOII Aesthetics

Don’t just return home feeling refreshed from your Bali holiday, but you can all look fresher and younger too. MOII Aesthetic Clinic is a one-stop beauty clinic, offering world-class treatments and injectables (BOTOX, Fillers, Skin boosters and more!).

Take the opportunity to access aesthetic treatments in Bali, not only in this exclusive and comfortable setting…but at a fraction of the price you’d pay at home!

You’ll also find Machine Treatments (CRISTAL, EXILIS, EMSCULPT) at MOII if you are looking for something extra, Their Body Sculpting Package combines a few of their machine treatments to help you achieve your desired and ideal body.

Explore more of what MOII Aesthetic Clinic has to offer here

Enjoy a Sunday Brunch

There are so many amazing Sunday brunch offerings in Bali, definitely choose one to schedule in for your girls’ trip.

Most of the brunches even offer a free-flow drinks package and free use of the pools. Spend your Sunday indulging in all of the delicious food on offer, sipping on bubbles or cocktails, and then diving in and enjoying the pools.

Explore Bali’s best Sunday Brunches here.

Step back in time and visit a speakeasy bar

The Shady Family – The Shady Pig in Berawa, The Shady Fox in Peranan & The Shady Flamingo in Seminyak, will take you back in time and give you a girls’ night out like no other! 

The Shady Pig was the first of The Shady family, taking you back to the glamour of the 1920s in Birmingham. Enjoy their contraband laboratory producing your drinks you won’t find anywhere else on the Island…make sure you DM them on insta for the nightly password though, no password, no entry!

See what’s happening at The Shady Pig here

The Shady Fox will transport you back to London in the 30s, here you’ll surrender to a playful night of nostalgic fun. If you knock on the right door you’ll find yourself in a gaming room, where you can play your luck on classic games while sipping on the theatrical cocktails on offer. 

See what’s happening at The Shady Fox here

The newest member of The Shady Family, The Shady Flamingo is set back in Los Angeles in the 1940s, in the secret den of America’s Queen of the Mob, Betty Hood. When you arrive, ring the bell and you’ll step into the flamboyant décor of her living room, where celebrities, politicians, gangsters & molls are invited to mix & mingle over bubbles, glitzy cocktails and vinyl tunes. Expect an evening where Hollywood glamour and shady gangster vibes blend together.

See what’s happening at The Shady Flamingo here

Book a Group Spa Treatment

It’s not a Bali girls’ trip without some serious pampering.

Goldust Spa offers spa parties for 4-12 people, and what better indulgence on a trip away than to get golden with your girls? Sip on wine, enjoy some nibbles and get pampered…you will all leave this experience feeling GOLD!

With a choice of 4 different spa party options, Goldust Spa is the ultimate choice for some serious pampering time together.

Book your spa party here.

Sip on Some Bubbles While Taking a Tour of Kuta on Bali Beer Cycle

Bali Beer Cycle is the perfect way to see the sights of Kuta and Legian , all while sipping on drinks & listening to your favourite tunes!

Whether you want to book just a few seats or book out the cycle completely, the SHE-I-P experience is the ultimate girls’ trip activity. Enjoy free-flow bubbles, wine, Smirnoffs, beers & soft drinks while cruising the streets together.

Better still make a booking for 10 or more for the SHE-I-P experience and get 10% off when you mention BaliBuddiesSheIP.

Book your beer cycle experience here.

Shop up a Storm & Invest in Your Art Collection

Bali stores and markets are full of clothing, homewares, art & accessories. Whether you are looking for a bargain or looking for something unique, spending a way indulging in Bali’s vibrant shopping scene with your friends, is a great day. If you are headed to the markets, get your negotiating skills ready!

Explore the Bali shopping scene here.

If you are looking for something truly unique and memorable to bring home from your trip, then a visit to Feliz’Eye Art Painting Gallery & Concept Store should be on your itinerary.

The gallery has evolved into a sparkling and warm place that showcases a diverse array of artistic expressions. Some of you may remember this store as ReservoArt Gallery, which was established in 2007. With its new name, this gallery continues to sell original and authentic artworks, which all come with a certificate of authenticity.

Within the gallery, you’ll find Asiatic-themed paintings, modern contemporary art, figurative art, abstract art, pop art, and Balinese traditional paintings from more than 50 Local & International artists.

Apart from paintings, Félicie also delights us with a punchy summer capsule such as beachwear terry cloth djellabas for women and kids, colourful bags and pouches for your day-to-day needs, bucket hats and many more. Definitely, a spot to bring some Bali home with you!

Explore more of the gallery here

Unleash Your Radiance at Fusion Wellness

Ladies, if you’ve been burning the candle at both ends, Fusion Wellness is your go-to for a swift transformation that will take you from drab to fab in no time!

Offering an array of IV Vitamin Infusions and rejuvenating treatments, Fusion Wellness is your ticket to staying fabulous on your girly Bali getaway. Say hello to their Revive & Restore Range – perfect for bouncing back after those epic evenings out dancing the night away, or tackling the notorious Bali Belly. 

And if you’re keen to turn back time (without the hassle of surgery) their top of the range stem cell and ozone therapy keeps fine lines at bay and combats the signs of ageing. Plus, their mood-boosting NAD+ will have you shining with radiance both inside and out. And don’t worry, their medically trained and licensed staff are on standby to ensure you’re in tip-top condition to enjoy some unforgettable island adventures.

They have 3 clinics throughout Bali:

Their flagship clinic in Canggu – Jl. Nelayan No.2, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara

One within the Akoya Spa in Viceroy Ubud

One within the Revivo Wellness Resort in Nusa Dua

Instagram: @fusionwellness.club  WhatsApp: +62 812-3752-1662

Try A Traditional Balinese Dance

Get ready to unleash your inner goddess and prepare to shimmy and shake in style with Dedari Balinese Dance. This traditional dance class is not just about learning the moves, it’s a full-blown cultural experience for you and your besties, and the perfect way to soak up some authentic island flavour.

Led by their amazing English-speaking dance pros, you’ll be nailing those hand, feet, body and eye moves in no time. What better girly bonding experience than busting out a two-minute Balinese dance routine with a videographer on standby to capture all of the laughter and magic. These classes are made for everyone, from toe-tapping beginners to dancefloor divas, plus their professional team will cater to your group size – no matter how big or small!

And for the more self-conscious, you don’t even have to leave your villa, as Dedari’s dance masters will even come straight to you! So whether you’re a dance enthusiast or just looking for a unique and fun Bali experience, why not grab your squad and get ready to make some dance floor magic?

Hop On the Adventure Bus and Booz for Unlimited Fun

Who’s up for the best party bus scene in Bali? Adventure Bus and Booz are revving up the excitement, and this is a fun pub crawl experience you won’t want to miss!

Cruise around Kuta’s hottest spots while sipping ice-cold, free-flow beer or wine. Adventure Bus and Booz are masters when it comes to throwing down an epic celebration, and they’ve got your girls’ crew covered for a day filled with refreshing drinks, good pals, and non-stop party vibes.

It’s your party, your rules! So you can choose the route and decide when to roll (11 am, 2 pm, 5 pm, or 8 pm). If you’ve got a special request, Adventure Bus and Booz is all about making your day one for the books!

Here are the adventure packages they’ve got:

• Soft Package (30 AUD/pax): free-flow soft drinks, juice, water, and snacks.
• Bubbly Package (70 AUD/pax): free-flow sparkling wine, beer/Smirnoff ice, soft drinks, water, and snacks.
• Smirnoff Package (59 AUD/pax): free-flow Smirnoff, soft drinks, water, and snacks.
• Beer Package (69 AUD/pax): free-flow beer, soft drinks, water, and snacks.
• Wine Package (70 AUD/pax): free-flow red/white wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and snacks.

No matter which package you choose, you’re in for a whirlwind 1.5 to 2 hours of pub-hopping. Plus, they provide wifi, an onboard toilet, a dedicated driver, a hostess, and top-notch security. And, of course, the hottest hits and some fun games.

Book your party bus experience here.

We all know the girls just wanna have fun! And you certainly don’t want to miss out on GoDrinks – the ultimate party essential for your Bali getaway! Whether you’re sipping, swirling or toasting, this top-rated delivery service is the only ingredient you’ll need to make sure that your celebration has plenty of fizz!

Imagine lounging in your villa surrounded by your besties, and sipping on the finest wines from GoDrink’s impressive selection of quality bottles and boxes. With unbeatable prices, promos and bundles on the best wines, beers and spirits on the island, you can indulge in your favourite tipple without breaking the bank. And the convenience? It’s off the charts! GoDrinks offers fast and free delivery straight to your door – so you can keep partying without even missing a beat. 

Need something a little extra? GoDrinks also brings the bar to you with their pop-up wine and mini bar service, ensuring that you have everything you need for the ultimate girls night in. So what are you waiting for? Let’s raise a glass and let the good times roll!

Get your drinks brought to you here

Glow Together with Refreshing Treatments at Body Lab

While you’re on the island with your girl crew, experiencing rejuvenating treatments is a great way to look and feel your best. Tucked in the Seminyak area, Body Lab offers a variety of aesthetic treatment options to improve your skin…and return home with that real holiday glow!

One of the most popular treatments to consider is their injectable rejuvenation treatment. The Radiasse treatment is Body Lab’s highlight, perfect for wrinkle solution. When it comes to Botox treatments, they offer two options: Allergan & Xeomin. For Dermal Fillers, you can choose from Juvederm, Restylane, and Teosysal. Additionally, LifteraHIFU is another great option for anti-aging treatments.

Other treatments include Skin boosters with various options: Nucleofill, Profhilo, Juvederm, and NCTF 135 HA. For facial treatments, Body Lab features the Hydra Facial MD and IS Clinical Fire and Ice for a glowing complexion, along with their signature lifting face massage.

And if you’re looking for slimming treatments, they also have them, including Cristal Fat Freezing and Alma Accent Prime Slimming . Plus, they offer Cellulite therapy and Endospheres therapy or Endymed Pro for skin tightening.

Make your appointment here.

Great Creative at Creative Art Bar

Get inspired by the beauty of Bali and create some art to take home.

Paint n Sip, or take a pottery class together with the girls at Creative Art Bar. Either book a private group session or head to one of their theme nights featuring a Willy Wonker Oompa Loompa performance, drag queens or magician nights!

Book your creative experience here.

Make the Most of Your Villa & Order in a Grazing Board

Bali Grazing Boards produce delicious boards that can be delivered anywhere in Bali.

Featuring products from local suppliers packaged in beautiful cases made of banana leaves, handmade with love by Balinese women. You won’t find plastic anywhere in the operation.

Have a food allergy? They also cater to make the boards vegan, gluten and nut-free too.

The best part is that when you enjoy a grazing board with your besties you can also feel good knowing that for every board purchased a donation is made to Feed Bali, a location organization providing food and support directly to Balinese families in need.

These boards are perfect for an afternoon by the pool with the girls…or take it down the beach and catch a sunset!

Choose your delicious board here

Visit John Hardy Boutique

This gorgeous boutique in Seminyak is more than your average jewellery shopping experience. Not only can you view and shop from the unique handcrafted jewellery, but you can also get yourself a cocktail from the Jamu Bar during your visit.

The boutique is also home to ‘The Long Table’. This boutique dining experience, featuring a delicious Indonesian feast, is the perfect place to make memories with your girlfriends during your trip.

If you’re visiting on a Friday afternoon you can also join them for their sunset picnic, which features free-flow cocktails and a choice of nibbling out on their stunning lawn.

Explore John Hardy Boutique here.

Make Your Own Personal Scent at a Perfume Workshop

L’Atelier Parfums et Créations is both a great bonding & relaxing activity. Explore the scents of Indonesia and learn how to create your own signature scent.

Each of the girls will leave with their own unique creations, and every time you use your perfume back home, it will remind you of your fabulous Bali girls’ trip!

Make your enquiries & bookings here.

Explore the Life of a Local on the Balinese Village Experience

A big draw card of visiting Bali is the island’s vibrant culture.

Spend a day in the life of a Balinese villager. You will eat some traditional Balinese sweets and foods, learn to make offerings, and learn about Balinese village life.

After lunch, you will make your way down a small waterfall and participate in a Hindu purification ritual. Here you will wash away any negative energy you are holding and welcome positivity.

A special & memorable experience to have with your friends.

See more of this unique Bali village experience here.

Upgrade your Smiles at SoSmile Bali

You and your girls can come back from Bali with more than just a tan, why not come back with some pearly white teeth too! SoSmile Bali has 5 locations across Seminyak, Kuta and Canggu and they welcome group bookings. You can get your teeth up to 20 shades lighter in just 45 minutes at SoSmile. Definitely one of Bali’s best beauty hacks, you can all sit back and relax in their funky pod seats while you upgrade your smiles. Holiday selfies have never looked better with SoSmile!

Make your bookings here

Final Words

So ladies – get together and clear your calendars, book some flights, and get yourself ready for an ultimate Bali experience with your friends!

PS. We also wrote a similar blog about planning the ultimate Bali Boys trip. Check it out here.

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About The Author

Karlie Cummins

Karlie is an Australian expat living with her family in Sanur, Bali. After 15 years of travelling to Bali as a tourist, Karlie moved to live in Bali full time with her husband and two children in 2017.

Karlie founded Bali Buddies in 2012 and has been helping people to enjoy the best of Bali ever since, whether as a tourist or a resident. She founded Bali Buddies to share her love of Bali and to encourage others to explore more of the Island she now calls home.

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• Looking for the best flight deals to Bali? Compare prices on Skyscanner
• Need accommodation in one of Bali’s top hotels or resorts? Visit Booking.com or Agoda.com to check today's rates.
• If you prefer alternative accommodation, check out Bali’s stunning treehouses .
• For the best Bali holiday packages, check out today's Luxury Escapes deals.
• Want to explore Bali on a bike? Rent a bike via Bikago.
• Accidents do happen. In case they happen to you, make sure you have a travel insurance. Check-out Cover-More Travel Insurance .
• Arrive without any hassle, book the Airport VIP Fast Track service and your airport transfer in advance.
• Download the Grab app . It's your reliable app for transportation, food delivery, and more.
• Book your tours and activities prior to departure with Klook , Viator , or GetYourGuide .
• Need to transfer money without the huge fees then check out Wise .
• Always connected to WiFi? Buy a Skyroam hotspot.
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Must-know when Partying in Bali

Some tips to stay safe, it’s gonna be a long night in bali – stay safe, some do’s & don’ts when diving into bali’s nightlife.

In Bali, as in any other part of the world, there are no limits to how hard you can party, and a wild night can quickly turn bad when enjoying Bali’s nightlife .

Bali is a rather tolerant the Balinese are very friendly and welcoming. Bali Tourists can enjoy being who they want to be without being harrassed or judged which some abuse by being a “little bit too carefree”.

If you are not careful, a night out in Bali may quickly go bad and if you let your guard down and indulge in some unhealthy behaviors and illegal practices.

Sex & Prostitution in Bali – The Bali Prostitutes

In Bali’s discos, clubs, bars, and even pubs, you’ll see young local girls, “kupu kupu malam” (working girls often coming from poorer rural areas of Java),  the “night butterflies”.

At least in the south of Bali, taxi drivers, security guards, and street vendors will know where the popular karaoke bars and massage parlors are in Kuta, Legian, and Denpasar, as well as the “Houses of ill Repute” in the narrow back lanes.

The dating apps such as Tinder, Bumble, IndonesianCupid are often used by prostitutes to find new clients online.

Massage parlors that offer Plus and Plus Plus services are now often run online and offer outcall massage services, where the “therapist” comes to your hotel or villa giving you more service than what is advertised BUT….

Don’t engage in Prostitution in Bali – it is illegal

Actually, prostitution is illegal in Indonesia. Yet, it still exists of course. It is also a big business like in almost any other popular tourism destination in the world. So also in Bali, like in many countries, everyone turns a blind eye, and tourists aren’t the only ones looking for some action, domestic tourists from all over Indonesia come to Bali to “party”.

Regular customers of massage parlors in Indonesia, especially the rich and wealthy, tend to request what is known as a “happy ending” or “plus services” massage. That’s why establishments who do not offer these sex services do calal themselves Day Spa or Family Spa. 

Sometimes, police will raid these clubs and plus-plus massage parlours. And when they do, they will make an example of everyone, and show no mercy to the owners, managers, workers and the clients, whether you are a foreigner or not. The law will slap you.

Even though it is against the law, prostitution is common, so tourists should be wary of anyone who offers their services. Locals who are too helpful and offer rides, Viagra, and other things to tourists under the false illusion of wanting to “help” should be avoided by tourists. Keep your guard up , or you might be conned into purchasing something illegal.

Respect the Local Customs and the Balinese Culture

We read about it in the headlines every day: “ Drunk Tourist Urinates on Sacred Temple ,” “ Angry Tourists Attack Local ,” “ Tourists Party Loud Till 4am ,” ” Intoxicated Tourists Race Scooters Into Canggu’s Ditches ,” or “ Tourist Poses Naked on Sacred Tree .

As we said, even though Bali is very open-minded and the Balinese have a lot of patience with tourists, Indonesia is still a conservative country. People from other places should be respectful of the locals and their culture and the local government is becoming more strict when it comes to misbehaving tourists. 

Official Guide to How to Behave in Bali

Just Say No to Drugs In Bali – be smart!

In Indonesia, using or trafficking drugs is similar to playing Russian roulette. If you choose to use them, you may end up in a big mess so to speak.

Drug trafficking is a serious crime in Indonesia , and foreigners who are caught are either imprisoned or might even be sentenced to death.

Although the death penalty is only used in extreme cases, it is frequently used against some drug traffickers. In 2021, Indonesia imposed the most confirmed death sentences for drug offenses, with 89. Seven of them were foreign nationals.

More than half of Indonesia’s hundreds of people on death row are there because of drug crimes. This makes Indonesia, along with Iran and Saudi Arabia, one of the most dangerous places in the world to possess or sell drugs.

However, people continue to sell drugs in Bali, sometimes even in broad daylight, in the Kuta and Legian backstreets (and not to forget Gili Trawangan). Tourists can buy marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, mushrooms, or whatever they want. We’ve already given you the reasons why partaking in that game is risky. Don’t believe it’s safe to buy and use drugs just because a security guard is openly selling them or because many people are taking them right in front of you.

Too many young tourists in Bali and the Gilis lose everything to drugs: their money, passports, credit cards, sense of reason, control of their motorbikes, health, and sometimes worse.

Stay alert. What might seem like a good time at first might easily turn into an issue or a demand for money. Although everything is pretty clear, even the most clueless tourists will know what they’re getting into. Some are cleverer than others. Don’t let your emotions control your decisions and instead rely on your common sense and good judgment.

You Never Know when the police will come for you

The cases of Schapelle Corby and the Bali Nine made it clear that authorities would not hesitate to crack down on drug trafficking harshly. Many nightclubs are subject to frequent, unpredictable police raids. There’s no telling who’s watching or if there are any ongoing investigations, so this could be a bad idea.

Drinking and Driving in Bali is No Bueno!

“ Don’t drink and drive .” is a common phrase that continues to be ignored despite the fact that hundreds of visitors to Bali are injured or killed each year riding motorbikes. In Bali, one of the worst things you can do is get on a scooter while intoxicated or high on drugs whether you cause an accident or not. Scootering or motorcycling alone in Bali is risky in and of itself. Inexperienced drivers, stray dogs, potholes, ditches, darkness, and who knows what else populate the highways. Drunken visitors are the last thing Bali needs.

Petty Thieves and Con Artists

Even though about 5 million people from other countries and 8 million people from Bali visit each year, the crime rate is low. Most people who come to Bali say that they feel and experience a very high level of safety while they are here. But you shouldn’t forget about your own safety, especially in Kuta, where drunk people at parties are easy targets. Stay with your close friends and be careful by setting limits.

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The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide For Couples

Your Essential Travel Guide To Holidaying or Honeymooning in Bali.

Hands up if you’ve been dreaming of Bali’s lush landscapes and intoxicating holiday appeal? We’ve put together this ultimate travel guide to Bali so you can follow the frangipani breezes from the beautiful beaches to the lush jungles and navigate this intoxicating island paradise stress-free!

If you’re planning a trip to Bali, even for the first time , you probably know this southeast-Asian gem packs a lot into a compact footprint. From luxury accommodation and a renowned spa scene to delicious food, extreme natural beauty and a rich local culture that resonates long after you return home.  

So, if you’re wondering what to see and do in Bali, we have you covered! We’ve been visiting the Island of the Gods for more than 20 years, so this Bali travel guide (designed especially for couples) will ensure you’re off to a flying start …

How to get to Bali Head just west of Australia’s northern tip and you’ll find the tropical idyll of Bali. A province of Indonesia, and part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, Bali includes the main island and several other small islands including Nusa Lembongan.Direct flight time is 6-7 hours from Brisbane and Sydney and just under 4 hours from Perth, arriving at theNgurah Rai International Airport (often called the Denpasar International Airport) in the capital of Bali,Denpasar . Currently Australian visitors can travel to Bali and buy a visa on arrival for up to 30 days.

Travel tip: ‘Nusa’ = island and ‘Pantai’ = beach in the local Balinese language. When is the best time to visit Bali?

You can always pack light for a trip to Bali! Sitting just eight degrees south of the equator, the island enjoys a warm and humid tropical climate with two main seasons to consider. Dry season (April-October) is considered one of the best times to travel to Bali because the days are pleasantly warm and there is less rain and humidity. Along with the usual holiday surge of Christmas, high season in Bali is July and August when you’ll get the best weather but also an uptick in prices. Wet season (November-March) comes with rain and higher humidity but less tourists and more chances of scoring a bargain on your Bali accommodation.  

Travel tip: If you’re keen to dodge the crowds, consider the ‘shoulder seasons’ including April, May, June, September, and October.

Find the ultimate Bali honeymoon itinerary here

How does the money work? As in the rest of Indonesia, the currency of Bali is the rupiah. For every $A1 you’ll get around 10,500 rupiah and you’ll find your money goes a long way here, especially when it comes to food and transport. We recommend having some cash for your travels as it’s handy for markets and tipping (which is not required but appreciated) and some places still don’t accept credit cards.

The best way to travel around Bali For this Bali travel guide, we considered the many ways you can get around the island. The good news? They’re all relatively affordable! If you’re staying at one of Bali’s luxury resorts or hotels, chances are you’ll start your adventure with an air-conditioned airport transfer. To explore beyond the resort, we usually hire a driver — it’s reasonable and you get the benefit of local knowledge when it comes to sightseeing. If you’re catching a taxi, look for the metered Bluebird taxi service, which often has English-speaking drivers. There’s also the local Kura-Kura shuttle bus, which operates daily between some of the most popular tourist areas (tickets can be bought onboard). 

For the adventurous (with good health insurance!), there are mopeds/scooters for hire – just remember that riding in Bali is not for the faint-hearted and ALWAYS wear a helmet. 

Wondering where to stay in Bali? Here are some of the best options for couples .

Best places to see in Bali Bali has so many holiday destinations within its beautiful shores that, chances are, you’ll need more than one trip. Here are some of the best…

Will this be your first trip to Bali? Be sure to read our first-timers’ guide to Bali here!

A magical place for couples to retreat and reconnect, Ubud is the spiritual heart of Bali. Beloved for its lush landscapes, tiered rice paddies, and peaceful feel, this region can be found in the highlands north of Denpasar. Spend your days exploring the many Hindu shrines and temples, trekking the Campuhan Ridge Walk, cycling through the rice paddies or drifting in and out of the world-class day spas. The township is a creative hub of arts, dining and shopping while the outskirts offer heavenly hideaways, some overlooking the Ayung River. For a romantic getaway in Bali, don’t miss Ubud.

Your complete travel guide to Ubud is ready to help you create the most amazing memories there together!

Legian & Seminyak

If you’re searching for five-star resorts, awesome sunsets and an all-rounder appeal, look to the west-coast regions of Legian and Seminyak. Connected by popular Double Six Beach, Legian is a low-key alternative to neighbouring Kuta while just to the north you’ll find Bali’s capital of cool, Seminyak. This upscale coastal enclave features a beachfront lined with luxury hotels, restaurants, beach clubs, boutiques and spas. From Indian Ocean vistas to shopping and gallery-hopping, Seminyak is a must-consider for any couple travelling to Bali.

Heading to Seminyak? These articles will be helpful: The Ultimate Guide to Seminyak, Bali: Where to Stay, Eat, and Pla y

If you’re in the mood to surf, shop and party (and you don’t mind braving the crowds), head south to the iconic waves of Kuta. 

Jimbaran Bay

The charming fishing village of Jimbaran is beloved for its sensational sunsets, crescent-shaped beach and trail of seafood warungs (food stalls) right on the sand! It’s not far from the airport and offers a unique mix of luxury resorts, relaxed dining, and insights into local Balinese life. A romantic option for the low-key couple.

Uluwatu Looking for a little drama? Head to the south-western tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula to experience the world-class surf breaks and clifftop bars of Uluwatu. One of the holiest and most spectacular temples on the island can be found here: the Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple, perched 70 metres above the waves. Or follow the sound of the waves down to Suluban Beach (also called Blue Point Beach) or the pretty cove of Padang Padang Beach. Our non-negotiable when visiting Uluwatu? Sunset cocktails at the Rock Bar, accessible via AYANA Resort and Spa’s cool cliffside funicular.

East coast appeal: Nusa Dua & Sanur

While south-coast sunsets draw many to a Bali holiday, there is much to love on the east coast too. And the sun rises are epic! The southern town of Nusa Dua is where you’ll find some of Bali’s best luxury resorts and high-end hideaways. Roll out of bed and hit the beach straight from your resort (many are backed by a private stretch of sand) or explore one of the lovely local beaches including Pantai Mengiat and Pantai Geget. 

Further north, Bali’s original beach town of Sanur is all laid-back vibes. It’s the Bali of old, where couples can take it easy with long walks along the seaside promenade and lazy days spent at the beach or sampling the local cuisine. The calm, crystalline waters are dotted with traditional jukung fishing boats and Sanur is so lovely, you’ll wonder why more tourists don’t spend time here (although we’re kind of glad they don’t). If you need more convincing, check out our guide to the best things to do in Sanur.

Travel tip: Pick up a couple of sarongs at the local markets. They’re perfectly packable mementos, great for the beach, and come in handy for covering bare shoulders and legs in the local Balinese temples.

Related: Nusa Dua vs Jimbaran. Which one is right for you?

Beyond Bali

Bali has so much to offer but if you have more time, hit up these nearby holiday escapes and day trip destinations – all located off the east coast.

1. Nusa Lembongan An island idyll of turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, Nusa Lembongan is part of the Bali province and located just to the east of Sanur. An under-the-radar gem for romantic getaways, honeymoons and even destination weddings in Bali!

2. Lombok A longtime surfing mecca, the beautiful island of Lombok also attracts active couples keen to take on the guided multi-day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano.

Related: A complete guide to Lombok for couples.

3. Gili Islands Just off the north-west coast of Lombok, the Gili Islands may be tiny but they’re renowned for their stunning beaches, excellent snorkelling and diving, and ultra-relaxed vibe. No motorised transport is allowed here, meaning a quieter experience than in many other parts of Bali. Each of the three Gili Islands has its own personality, from the party scene and beach bars of Gili Trawangan to the totally under-the-radar charm of Gili Meno. 

STILL WONDERING WHERE TO STAY? CHECK OUT OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST AREAS IN BALI FOR COUPLES.

More info We hope you’ve found plenty of inspiration and a few new ideas in our Bali travel guide. It really is a magical holiday destination for couples, with more to discover on each visit. And if you’re looking for a romantic place to stay, don’t forget to check out our Bali accommodation guide .

If you enjoyed this Bali Travel Guide for couples and want to discover more about the Island of the Gods, visit our comprehensive library of Bali Travel articles here .

Related posts:

• Unveiling the Cultural Gems of Bali: A Guide for Culture Vultures
• Bali Adventure Travel Guide: Best Activities and Places to Visit
• Travel Guide to Munduk, North Bali – Best Things to Do
• Unique Experiences in Bali for Couples

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This website contains no sponsored content. The content is written entirely on my own and is based on my personal experience and extensive research. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Have you been wondering About Where to Stay in Bali for Couples? Are you looking for the most romantic places to stay in Bali? or do you want to know where to stay in Bali for honeymoon? don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

Bali is a paradise. It is one of the most beautiful places on earth – one that combines natural beauty with culture. The magic of this place is why I think Bali is one of the best couples destinations in the world.

That’s also why, I have been to Bali multiple times. I have done it all – been on a couple’s trip to Bali on a budget, then on a later trip stayed at luxury resorts in Bali, explored all the different areas in Bali, and figured out the most romantic places to stay in Bali.

In this guide, I am going to put it all together for you so that you no longer feel confused about the best area to stay in Bali for couples. This one article has it all – the best place to stay in Bali for couples as well as the best accommodation in Bali for couples. Make sure you read the article till the very end to plan the most memorable romantic trip to Bali.

My Top 3 Picks: Where to Stay in Bali for Couples

Cultural hub, greenery with rice paddies, temples, romantic villas

Stay at Udaya Villas

Cozy beach properties, a mix of quiet and vibey beaches, upscale area

Stay at Impiana Villas and Spa

Plush gated area with beaches, watersports, and resorts with private beaches

Stay at Amarterra Villas

Bali Map – Where to stay in Bali for Couples

The best areas to stay in Bali for couples are Ubud, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, and Canggu. If you want to stay in remote locations, far away from touristy areas, Candidasa and Amed are also excellent areas for couples to stay in Bali .

But staying in Amed or Candidasa is not recommended if it’s your first time in Bali or if you are in Bali for a short vacation.

Here’re a few quick insights about the best places for couples in Bali mentioned above

Related 📖 I have a special article on the best places to stay in Bali for senior couples . Read it if you are visiting Bali as a ‘young-at-heart’ couple for suggestions that are more curated for your age and style of travel.

Best Areas to Stay in Bali for Couples + Best Couples Resorts in Bali

As stated above, the best places to stay in Bali for couples are

Ubud is the best location to stay in Bali for couples. Here’s why:

• Ubud is one of the most scenic regions in Bali.
• Ubud accommodation options are very couple-friendly. You’ll find plenty of villas in Ubud with a private pool. The best flower pool and spas in Bali are in Ubud. And overall, the accommodation in Ubud exudes romantic, calming, serene couple vibes – perfect for a honeymoon in Bali.

Fair disclosure : Ubud is not a beach destination but it is still the most romantic area in Bali. The closest beach is about 30-40 minutes away from Ubud. For a beach vacation in Bali, stay at Seminyak or any of the other Bali couple areas mentioned below.

💡 Pro tip : I found Ubud to be the perfect place to stay right after the monsoons in Bali. The rice fields are extra green and the landscape around looks a lot fresher. So even if you’re a beach person, if you’re traveling to Bali between April and June, I urge you to spend a couple of nights in Ubud at any of the best romantic hotels in Bali.

Where to Stay in Ubud for Couples

Udaya resort and spa.

💰  Price:  $$$$ | ❤️ Private flower pool + spa | ✅  See availability (Awarded World’s Best Hotel with Spa. It’s also TripAdvisor’s most saved hotel)

Udaya is a luxury resort in Bali and is often rated as the best place to stay in Bali for honeymoon. You can choose between a private room or a private villa with a pool. For couples, the staff goes above and beyond. You can get a romantic flower pool, relax at a couples spa session, or bond over a lavish floating breakfast.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bali's Best Hotel & Resort (@theudaya)

Each room, decorated in warm hues and adorned with wooden furnishings, provides cozy comforts. The private balcony or terrace offer views of the captivating pool or the lush garden.

An array of on-site activities such as yoga, biking, and trekking tours offers a vibrant mix of relaxation and adventure.

Win-win all the way!

😍 Check Prices and Availability

Batu Agung Villa

💰  Price:  $$ | ❤️ Serene location, budget-friendly private villa| ✅  See availability

I highly recommend this villa for those of you that are looking for a couple-friendly villa in Bali.

Batu Agung Villa Ubud, located in the serene heart of Ubud, is an ideal retreat for a romantic vacation to Bali. With private terraces and modern amenities in every unit, the villa promises both intimacy and comfort. For more privacy, book the 2-BHK villa that comes with its own private pool.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Batu Agung Villas (@batuagungvillas)

The on-site restaurant serves daily breakfast with local specialties, perfect for starting an adventure-filled day. Being close to notable attractions and offering bicycle rentals, it presents ample opportunities for sightseeing.

Things to do in Ubud for couples

• Click couples pictures at the Ubud Swing
• Stroll through the picturesque and serene Tegallang Rice terraces
• Bond over a Balinese cooking class or a yoga class
• Watch the sunrise together. Trek to the top of Mount Batur – I recommend this guided midnight trek tour. (Only head on this trek if you’re comfortable waking up at 2 am and spending the night trekking to the top. You’ll end up losing most of the day after as you’d want to rest or even get a foot massage. So plan accordingly)
• Shop for handicrafts at the Ubud Art Market
• Go for a hot air balloon ride at sunrise
• Seek blessings at one of the many temples like Saraswati Temple, Ubud Water Temple, Goa Gajah Temple, Pura Pentarah Sasih, Tirta Empul Temple or Taman Ayun Temple. (My favourites are the Taman Ayun Temple and the Saraswati Temple. If you’re not really into temples, you can skip the others!)

2. Seminyak

Seminyak is the best beach area in Bali for couples. Here’s why:

• Seminyak is an upscale area with some of the best beaches in Bali that are serene and tranquil unlike its noisy, backpacker neighbor Kuta.
• Seminyak’s high-end dining scene offers romantic experiences. The area, just like Ubud, also has some of the best spas. Seminyak also has plush boutiques, vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences – overall, it’s the best place to stay in Bali for young couples.
• Seminyak is pretty centrally located and most touristy areas like Uluwatu, Kuta, and Ubud are about 1-1.5 hours away.

Where to Stay in Seminyak for Couples

Impiana private villas and spa.

💰  Price:  $$$$ | ❤️ Flower pool + Best Spa in Bali | ✅  See availability

Situated in the lively heart of Seminyak, Impiana Private Villas is a romantic haven for couples seeking a blend of Balinese tradition and modern luxury. The villas, with their charming thatched roofs and private pools, offer intimate settings for relaxation and connection.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Prana Spa Bali By Impiana (@pranaspabali)

The surrounding boutiques and restaurants provide opportunities for delightful exploration, while the villa’s close proximity to stunning beaches promises romantic beachside strolls.

The villas are enhanced with amenities such as a kitchen, dining area, and entertainment system, ensuring comfort and convenience.

The property also features one of the best spas in Bali – the Prana Spa. Its tastefully done decor is the perfect spot to unwind with your partner. The villa also offers a serene retreat with unique treatments and yoga sessions, while the Prana Restaurant caters to gastronomic desires with a range of healthy cuisine. Given its fusion of privacy, comfort, and location, it’s no wonder couples rate this property highly for a two-person trip.

Moson Villa Legian

💰  Price:  $$$ | ❤️ Serene location, budget-friendly private villa| ✅  See availability

Located in the vibrant Seminyak area, Moson Villa Legian offers a fusion of sustainability and luxury, making it a perfect haven for couples seeking a responsible yet lavish retreat. The 4-star villa, set within a lush garden and featuring views of the pool, ensures complete security and dedicated concierge service for a hassle-free experience.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Moson Bali | Cafe & Villa (@mosonbalilegian)

The villa offers delightful daily continental and American breakfast options. Moson Villa Legian also offers wellness packages for in-house rejuvenation.

With bicycle and car rental services available, exploring the nearby Double Six Beach, Legian Beach, and Kuta Beach is easy and convenient.

Things to do in Seminyak for couples

• Stroll along the calm and refreshing Petitinget beach
• Chill and lounge on the colorful beanbags of the Double Six beach. I found the experience of lounging on colorful bean bags so unique that I didn’t mind the crowds around sunset.
• Visit the centuries-old Pura Petitenget Temple
• Laze around and enjoy a pool day at the Potato Beach Club
• Shop for souvenirs and branded lifestyle products
• Go on a fine dining date at Chez Gado Gado or Sarong.

3. Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua in South Bali is one of the top areas for couples to stay in Bali because

• Its BTDC area is a gated complex hosting a number of luxury resorts and upscale hotels of globally reputed hospitality chains – many with their own private beaches.
• It is close to spectacular beaches, watersport activities, and top attractions in South Bali.

Fair disclosure: While Nusa Dua makes visiting Uluwatu temple and other attractions in South Bali convenient, it is over 2 hours away from Ubud. To make the most of your romantic holiday to Bali, split your holiday between Nusa Dua and a stay at Ubud.

Where to Stay in Nusa Dua for Couples

Amarterra villas.

💰  Price:  $$$$$ | ❤️ Top-rated couples villa in Bali | ✅  See availability

Amarterra Villas Bali Nusa Dua presents an idyllic setting for a romantic escape in Bali. Each spacious villa offers private seclusion, equipped with its own pool, creating an intimate oasis for couples to unwind and reconnect.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amarterra Villas Bali Nusa Dua (@amarterravillasbalinusadua)

You can choose to stay inside the beautiful villa complex, which is clean and well-maintained. The whole place feels like a world in itself.

But if you choose to head out, you can reach your section of the beach in a minute or even walk to the Bali Collection invites leisurely exploration of local shops and eateries.

To make the experience more memorable, meals are delivered straight to your villa. The staff is always looking at ways to make your stay more special making this villa the best villa in Bali for couples.

The hospitality, comfort, and quality of maintenance of this villa are absolutely worth the money you spend on this villa. Once you live here, you will understand why this villa is one of the highest-rated couples villas in Bali.

Nunamkhalu Private Villa and Spa

Getting a villa in Nusa Dua that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg is difficult. But this villa is an exception to that as it is one of the best villas to stay in Bali for couples with budget constraints.

Nunamkhalu Private Villa and Spa provides villas for couples, each boasting a private pool and a rooftop deck, that offer not just privacy, but an elevated sense of tranquillity and luxury.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nunamkhalu Private Villa & Spa (@nunamkhalubali)

The presence of modern amenities such as a home theatre surround sound system and a well-equipped kitchenette elevate the comfort and convenience during the stay.

Even though not as high-end and exquisitely designed as the Amarterra Villas , the hospitality of the staff at the villa, the spacious rooms and the privacy and the comfort these villas offer, still deliver excellent value for money.

Things to do in Nusa Dua for couples

• Walk along the beach walking trail starting from Mengiat beach and moving northwards. (For a truly undisturbed time on the beach, avoid the Pandawa Beach or the main Nusa Dua beach)
• Be mesmerized by the Kecak dance show at Uluwatu
• Book a couples spa package
• Spend an afternoon playing golf
• Take your partner out for watersport adventures
• Get drenched at the Water Blow (waves crashing against rocks)
• Shop at the Bali collection – a chic shopping area featuring top brands and local handicrafts.

4. Jimbaran

Many Bali for couples packages recommend staying at Jimbaran because

• it has plenty of stunning couple villas with private pools overlooking the sea.
• it is fairly close to the airport and other tourist attractions in South Bali as well as to prime touristy regions to the north of the airport like Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, etc.

Thus, for couples, Jimbaran offers luxury villas for a romantic stay and its location provides easy access to explore the rest of Bali.

💡 Pro tip : During my time in Jimbaran with my husband, we found that the Jimbaran beach was too crowded at sunset thanks to its famous sunset seafood dinner. So we instead chose the Balangan beach next to it. It’s pristine and offers an equally beautiful sunset view. For the candlelight seafood dinner, we went to Serangan Beach (Jimbaran’s northern neighbor).

Where to Stay in Jimbaran for Couples

💰  Price:  $$$ | ❤️ Comfy beds, Instagrammable property | ✅  See availability

La Cabane, set within the tropical greenery and a short stroll away from the white sand of Balangan Beach (a beach close to Jimbaran), creates a romantic haven for couples. The wooden bungalows come with a private terrace and overlook photogenic lush gardens.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by La Cabane Bali (@lacabanebali)

Regardless of whether you choose to opt for the 3-bhk villa with a private pool, the property’s chic decor and beautifully designed rooms make it the best honeymoon resort in Bali. You would be surprised by how comfortable and large the beds are. The swings and the lounge area by the pool are straight out of a Pinterest board.

Its shared infinity pool are the best place to unwind and the private beach is only a 2-minute walk away. The impressive rooms, gardens, pools and complex of the property coupled with its excellent location, make these moderately priced villas the best accommodation in Bali for couples.

Ayana Resort

💰  Price:  $$$$ | ❤️ 14 pools, cliff views| ✅  See availability

The Ayana Resort is a cliff-top resort in Bali offering one of the most unique stays in Jimbaran. Even though the resort doesn’t provide private pool villas, it makes up for it with its 14 pools – all with outstanding views that you just can’t get enough of and truly top-notch stay quality.

The rooms are dressed up with elegant wooden furnishings and the well-maintained gardens are a delight. The place is one of the best resorts in Bali for couples with its endless delights.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AYANA Resort Bali (@ayanaresort)

You can enjoy special massage therapies or enjoy a game of golf at its own golf course. You could even eat a quiet meal overlooking a stunning lotus pond or simply walk around the vast complex.

Things to do in Jimbaran for couples

• Spend time at the beach – a lazy afternoon is perfect as that’s when the beach is not too crowded
• Enjoy a candle light sunset seafood dinner – Jimbaran’s speciality
• Bond over a Balinese cooking class or a yoga class at your villa
• Visit the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Park – one of the best cultural tourist attractions in Bali
• Go for a date at the Balique restaurant in Jimbaran

I also think Jimbaran is one of the best place to stay in Bali for first-timers. The neighbourhood is not too touristy but not secluded either. There are enough tour operators and bike rentals around to make visiting major tourist attractions like Uluwatu Temple or the Tanah Lot Temple , or the many beaches in South Bali like Pandawa, Padang Padang, Nusa Dua or ones in western Bali like Kuta, Seminyak, Legian easily manageable.

Canggu (pronounced Chahng-goo) is the best location to stay in Bali for young couples as it is an ideal spot for couples seeking a blend of relaxation and social activities in Bali.

• Canggu is known for its surf-friendly beaches and scenic rice fields, Canggu offers plenty of outdoor adventures.
• Canggu is also popular for its vibrant café and restaurant scene, offering a diverse array of dining experiences.

Mayana Villas

💰  Price:  $$$$ | ❤️ Private pool + excellent staff | ✅  See availability

Mayana Villas, located in Canggu is a short walk away from the beach. They provide an ideal setting for a romantic holiday. Each villa offers a mix of privacy and comfort, with a semi-open living area, a well-equipped kitchen, and a private pool.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mayana Villas (@mayanavillas)

The staff is particularly helpful and is glad to make your stay at the villas special by arranging for a special flower pool or floating breakfast. The gardens outside the villa are refreshing. The shower area and the rooms are tastefully done and the whole villa creates a magical, private world in itself – perfect for a couples vacation to Bali.

Kharista Villas & Retreat

💰  Price:  $$$$ | ❤️ Private pool, greenery and location| ✅  See availability

This villa is a gem – a rare one where the pictures don’t do justice to the property. The villas are designed in classic Balinese style and are soothing on the eyes. Despite being located so close to the beach, you will enjoy absolute privacy at these villas making this the perfect romantic haven for your trip to Bali.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by KHARISTA VILLAS & RETREAT – by Ekosistem (@kharistavillasandretreat)

The bathtub at the villa can easily accommodate two people making it an excellent place to unwind with your partner. The staff is also very accommodating and is willing to add special touches to your stay in the form of floral decor, cake for special occasions etc.

The restaurant specializes in vegetarian and vegan dishes for couples making the stay even more pleasurable for couples with dietary limitations. Couples can avail special treatment at the in-house wellness center.

Overall, if you want to stay in Canggu for its youthful vibe but want a place that offers tranquility and privacy, these eco-conscious villas are perfect for you.

Things to do in Canggu for couples

• Walk through the picturesque rice terraces
• Watch an epic sunset at Tanah Lot – the best sunset in Bali
• Go surfing at the echo beach – best for couples to ride the waves together
• Socialize and hang out with other couples at one of Canggu’s lively clubs like La Brisa Bali
• Shop at the Love Anchor Market
• Practice yoga together at one of the many yoga centers in Canggu. I love the yoga classes held at Serenity Yoga Retreat.

6. Candidasa

Candidasa is located on the eastern side of Bali and is away from most tourist attractions. It is a great area for couples visiting Bali as

• It has world-class resorts and villas with outstanding ocean views and indulgence
• It is away from touristy areas of Bali and perfect couples looking for romantic escapades
• It is great for snorkeling, hiking, and exploring offbeat attractions
• It is a lot cheaper than tourist hubs and yet far more scenic

Heads up : Candidasa is a scenic, unfiltered gem of Bali. But it is away from the touristy side of Bali. Taking day trips from Candidasa to the touristy areas in Bali like Ubud and Uluwatu is not suggested as the one-way travel time would be over 2-3 hours. If it’s your first time in Bali, I recommend dividing your time in Bali between a more central area and Candidasa.

The forty Eight Resort, Candidasa

💰  Price:  $$ | ❤️ Greenery, cozy cottages | ✅  See availability

The Forty Eight Resort Candidasa, nestled in the peaceful greenery of Eastern Bali, presents an idyllic escape for you if you want a tranquil retreat. It is just 50 meters from the ocean. The cottages are elegantly designed and each cottage boasts a stylish bathroom with unique features like a glass-bowl sink and both indoor and outdoor showers.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Forty Eight Resort (@the48resort)

The resort also has a lovely solarium, a swimming pool, and an outstanding international cuisine restaurant with the best views of the Candidasa Lagoon. The beauty and the tranquility offered by this resort coupled with its pure indulgent service will give you no reason to miss touristy Bali. The staff is also willing to pamper you with a floating breakfast or special room decor for your honeymoon or special occasions.

What’s best is that the place, being in Candidasa, is also a lot cheaper than accommodation in the areas mentioned above.

😍 C heck Prices and Availability

Things to do in Candidasa for couples

• Stroll around Lotus Lagoon – A serene spot with blooming lotuses.
• Spend quiet evenings at the Sengkidu beach or sunbathe at the idyllic Pasir Putih beach
• Snorkeling in Blue Lagoon: Explore diverse marine life.
• Visit Taman Ujung Water Palace or the Tirta Gangga Water Palace for the beautiful gardens and sculptures.
• Go on tranquil hikes through the rice plantation
• Simply disconnect and take in the gorgeous views of the ocean from your resort.

Amed, located on the northeastern coast of Bali, is a captivating destination for couples and honeymooners, offering a distinct charm from the rest of the island as

• it is a world-renowned snorkeling and diving spots perfect for adventure-seeking couples.
• it has the picturesque backdrop of Mount Agung and black sand beaches for romantic strolls.
• accommodations in Amed range from cozy beachfront villas to luxury resorts, all catering to a quiet, intimate experience.

Note : Amed is a world in itself. It is one of the least touristy areas in Bali. It is also far away (around 3 hours) from most tourist attractions. If you choose to stay here, be prepared to completely absorb yourself in the magic of Amed and disconnect from the rest of Bali’s touristy offerings.

As with Candidasa, if it’s your first time in Bali, I recommend dividing your time in Bali between a more central area and Amed.

The Griya Villas and Spa

💰  Price:  $$$$ | ❤️ Sunrise views + private infinity pool | ✅  See availability

If you have the time and the budget to extend your stay in Bali and to transport yourself to a romantic haven like none other, stay at the Griya Villas and Spa.

Each villa comes with with a private infinity pool, and opens to panoramic views of the sea, mountains, sunrise, and star-filled night skies.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Griya Villas and Spa (@thegriyavillasandspa)

This resort’s strategic location allows easy access to beautiful beaches like Jemeluk beach and the Japanese shipwreck. You can also visit iconic local attractions like Heaven’s Gate at Pura Luhur Lempuyang in a few minutes. It also offers additional services such as car rentals, yoga classes, and cultural performances.

It has received high praise from couples for its delectable cuisine and commendable staff and is an idyllic couple’s retreat in Bali for relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion.

Things to do in Amed for couples

• Watch the sunrise from Amed – the best sunrise in Bali thanks to the scenic addition of Mount Agung to the backdrop
• Bond over snorkeling sessions as you explore the vibrant coral reefs and see the Japanese shipwreck
• Hike to the top of Mount Agung
• Visit the Pura Luhur Lempuyang known for its heaven’s gate for perfect couple pics
• Go on a gorgeous Jukung boat (local fishing boat) ride
• Disconnect and take in the spectacular beauty of the landscape around you

FAQs – Best Area in Bali for Couples

In this section, I will answer some of the commonly asked questions about a Bali romantic getaway.

Which Part Of Bali Is Best For Couples?

Ubud is the best area in Bali for couples who want to stay in a romantic private villa close to rice fields, waterfalls and cultural attractions. For beach lovers, Seminyak is the best area for couples visiting Bali.

How Much Does It Cost For A Couple To Stay In Bali?

High-end honeymoon accommodation in private villas with pools ranges between USD 250-500 while a fancy room in the best couples resorts in Bali costs around USD 150-200. In addition to that, couples visiting Bali should factor an expense of about USD 200 per day for food and sightseeing. But couples can also visit Bali on a budget where the total daily expenses per couple can be as low as USD 200.

Can Couples Stay Together In Bali?

Couples can stay together in Bali. The new law prohibiting cohabitation before marriage is yet to come into effect and its applicability to foreign tourists visiting Bali is still unclear.

For the best romantic stay Bali, I recommend staying in Ubud at Udaya Resort and Spa

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Stay in Bali for Couples

To round up this article and to make decision-making easier for you, here are the best places to stay in Bali.

Ubud : Most romantic place to stay in Bali Seminyak : Best place to stay in Bali for couples that love beaches Nusa Dua : Best area to stay in Bali for luxury villas and resorts Jimbaran : Best hotels in Bali for honeymoon with private pool are found here Canggu : Best part of Bali for couples that prefer surfing, socializing or longer-stays Candidasa : Best part of Bali to stay for those that like to be away from the crowds + most budget-friendly romantic accommodation in Bali is found here. Amed : Most romantic villa in Bali with infinity pool is found here + the most offbeat and remote area to stay in Bali

How many days do you need in Bali

How to spend 10 days in Bali – A perfect guide

Vietnam vs Bali: Which is better?

Where should you go after Bali? A curated-list

TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!

Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair

Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .

Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.

Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.

Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world

Hey, if you found this post helpful, share it with more people or buy me a coffee !

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

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12 things to know before going to Bali, Indonesia

Jan 18, 2024 • 8 min read

These top tips for visiting Bali can help you plan the perfect trip © Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

The Indonesian island of Bali is a sun-soaked paradise that attracts every type of traveler, from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury jet-setters.

But – as with any destination – the vast majority of travelers (especially first-timers) will have a number of questions, whether it's "Can unmarried couples stay together in Bali?" (an increasingly common one in the light of recently-introduced new rules for tourists in Bali, which we'll get to later) or "What should I wear?"

Thankfully, Bali is one of the easiest destinations to explore, although its size – the island covers 5776 sq km (2230 sq miles) – means travelers should take the time to think about what they want to see and do relatively early on. For example, places such as Seminyak , with its beach clubs and five-star hotels, tend to become somewhat crowded during peak season, while more rural destinations, such as Ubud , might well require a longer taxi journey  but are absolutely worth the effort, especially for those keen to avoid the crowds.

It's also worth bearing in mind that Bali is one of Asia's safest destinations. As with any holiday hot spot, there are always going to be certain things we can do to ensure we stay safe while traveling, but crackdowns on petty theft and bad behavior have all helped transform the island into a wonderfully family-friendly destination .

Here are our top tips for anyone heading to Bali.

1. Check your vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to Indonesia

There are no mandatory vaccinations for visitors to Bali (barring the need for travelers arriving from countries with a high yellow fever transmission risk to carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate), although Hepatitis A, typhoid and tetanus are often recommended. Bali falls into the "low to no risk" category when it comes to malaria.

Rabies remains a big problem in Indonesia, and although it claims fewer lives in Bali than elsewhere (according to the World Health Organization, 11 people died from rabies in the first half of 2023), it still exists, and the rabies vaccination is worth considering. Working out what vaccinations you need for a holiday to Bali is mostly a personal choice, but if you have concerns, contact your local physician for the latest guidance.

2. Bring a reusable bottle

One of the most asked questions by tourists: "Is Bali's tap water safe to drink?" The short answer is "no." Stick to bottled water or, better still, bring a bottle with a built-in water filtering membrane. Purchasing bottled water – especially in restaurants – can quickly become expensive, which is another reason we're fans of reusable filtered ones, such as Larq and Lifestraw. These are also handy when it comes to purifying water used for cleaning fruits and vegetables. Additionally, try to steer clear of ice and use bottled water to brush your teeth.

3. Don't write off the rainy season

Having a rough idea of when dry and rainy seasons fall is undoubtedly something that is useful to know before heading to Indonesia . But bear with us – Bali's rainy season, which takes place between October and April, is a great time to visit. It's typified by short, sharp showers that often only last a few minutes. And in addition to the fact that prices for everything – from regional airfares to hotels – plummet, the island becomes wonderfully lush, the weather is still warm (typically hovering between 24°C/75°F and 29°C/85°F), and the main tourist attractions are blissfully crowd-free. You'll also find it easier to snap up places on excursions, such as snorkeling tours and guided hikes.

4. Buy some bug spray

To be clear, Bali doesn't have a major mosquito problem, but like anywhere in Southeast Asia, these pesky biting bugs love the occasional bloodsucking session – in the case of Bali, particularly during the rainy season between November and April. Lighten the load on your wallet by purchasing your repellent in Bali and opting for bug sprays made in Asia. Popular (and much cheaper) Asian brands you'll find throughout Indonesia include Soffell (snap up the surprisingly pleasant floral-scented version if you can).

5. Avoid traveling during peak times

Traffic in Bali can be horrendous – especially around busier spots such as Denpasar and Kuta – and estimated journey times on apps like Google Maps or Grab are notoriously unreliable. Peak times tend to be 6am to 8am (but roads often remain busy until 10am when day-trippers head out) and 4pm to 7pm. Allow plenty of time to get from A to B, especially when heading to the airport.

6. Pack clothes that will cover you up for when you're not on the beach

In Bali, skimpy swimwear is fine for the beach, but definitely not for trips to a supermarket or restaurant.

Men and women need to ensure their shoulders and upper legs are covered when visiting religious sites, although most of these places will have sarongs for visitors to borrow. Pack like a pro by taking a light cotton scarf that can double as a sarong if you visit a temple or other religious site, and a pair of light cotton trousers (bonus points if they've got a built-in mosquito repellent), which will protect you from bites while also providing enough coverage at sites where tiny denim shorts or a vest just won't cut it.

7. Behave respectfully

Various media reports might give the impression it's easy to get into trouble in Bali, but it's not. In reality, you just need to be sensible: don't do drugs (being caught with under a gram of cannabis will land you in prison), be respectful and dress appropriately at religious sites, don't ride a motorbike or moped without a helmet (Bali's police have recently started cracking down especially hard on foreign moped drivers), and treat locals with respect.

8. Locals will be keen to share their knowledge with you

Staying at a hotel with a concierge or a friendly receptionist? Feel free to grill them about the best local bar, beach or restaurant. The Balinese are incredibly proud of their island  – don't be surprised if the bartender at your favorite beach bar ends up inviting you to their home for dinner with their family – and love nothing more than telling visitors about their favorite beach, nature walk or temple.

9. Eat, drink, stay and shop locally

Don't be afraid to go local, whether this means eating at tiny family-run restaurants or opting for local drink brands. You'll pay less and enjoy delicious local dishes, and you'll be contributing directly to the local economy, too. These days, even the smallest restaurants, bars and independent hotels will be listed on online review sites such as Zomato (especially popular in Asia), and a quick glance should tell you whether the business in question is reputable or not.

10. Carry some loose change

Many businesses in Bali will take payment by card, but there are still plenty of places that only take cash. These include temples, smaller souvenir shops and beachfront masseuses (which, by the way, offer some of the best massages going). ATMs on the island can be unreliable and are also few and far between in some areas. Additionally, don't assume you'll always have the mobile data you'll need to book a ride-share taxi. If you need to hail a tuk-tuk or taxi from the side of the road, it's highly likely you'll need to pay in cash.

When using ATMs, opt for ones connected with major banks (in Indonesia, these include BNI, Bank Mandiri, BCA and CIMB Niaga) to avoid withdrawal fees and remember that Indonesian ATMs issue the cash first, so don't forget to wait for your card to appear.

11. Get around by moped (but always wear a helmet)

Mopeds are the cheapest way to get around Bali  and often – especially during rush hour in places such as Kuta – the quickest, too. They're also offered as a mode of transport by Grab and Gojek (Bali's most popular ride-sharing apps), and prices for journeys via mopeds are significantly cheaper than those made by car. Just remember to check the reviews of your chosen driver and always wear a helmet (the driver will typically provide one). Avoid hailing scooter taxis on the street – you won't be able to check their credentials, and, in reality, Grab and Gojek have so many scooter drivers (both identifiable for their bright green jackets) that there's simply no need.

12. There is a no-sex-before-marriage law

In December 2022, the Indonesian government brought in a new law that forbids sex outside of marriage. Technically, this law applies to visitors as well as locals.

At the time, it was announced that the legislation won't be introduced until late 2025. Since then, Bali's governor has said that the law – dubbed by some newspapers as the "Bali bonk ban"– won't apply to tourists and, additionally, guilty parties can only be reported by spouses, parents or children. In summary, the law represents a worrying development for human rights in Indonesia, but it's not one that is likely to affect tourists.

This article was first published May 2019 and updated January 2024

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The Ultimate Bali Itinerary: How To Plan The Perfect Trip To Bali

Planning a trip to Indonesia and looking for the best Bali itinerary? Whether you’re only spending 5 days, one week, 10 days, or two full weeks, I guarantee this Bali trip travel guide will be extremely helpful!

Bali is truly one of my favorite destinations in the world and a place I’ve called home several times. But planning a trip to Bali can be a bit intimidating as there really are so many amazing places to explore!

There’s no need to wonder why Bali has become one of the world’s most visited and popular vacation hotspots. It has jaw-dropping landscapes, lush rice terraces, stunning beaches, serene temples, cute monkeys, scenic waterfalls, wild nightlife, and unforgettable sunsets.

Bali really does have a little something for everybody, and I guarantee that if you follow this Bali travel itinerary, you will fall in love with this island just as much as I have!

While tourism in Bali has exploded in recent years due to the popularity of Instagram, it definitely lives up to the hype because there is a LOT more to this island than what you see on social media. Don’t let the annoying Bali IG couples + IG influencers deter you from planning a trip here because it is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia!

Tip: Add something unique to your Bali travel plan by choosing to go glamping in Bali  instead of staying at a hotel.

Check out my Instagram page  for more holiday inspiration!

Whether you’re only spending a few days, two weeks, or even an entire month, this Bali Itinerary guide will go into loads of detail about what to expect about visiting this island, the best things to do, what to pack for Bali, when to go, insider travel tips, and loads more.  

So without further ado, let’s get started!

WHAT ARE THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT BALI?

Bali is an incredible destination to visit year-round, and if you’ve only got limited time off work, I would say book that ticket no matter what! Being located in Southeast Asia, the weather in Bali is exceptionally tropical, so you can expect hot and humid temperatures pretty much every day, but there are two main seasons – the wet and dry months.

The rainy season in Bali is from October to April, and the dry season is between May – September.

That said, traveling to Bali during the rainy season is NOT an issue. I LIVED in Bali in December & January (known as the wettest months of the year), and I barely even noticed the rain.

Yes, some days were worse than others, but more often than not – every day was beautifully sunny blue skies and perfect beach weather.

According to Bali.com, “ The best time to come to Bali is April, May, June and September, just before and just after high season. It’s still the dry season, it’s slightly less humid, and room prices and villa rentals can be 30-50% cheaper than during high season. Many shops offer sales and promotions, restaurants are less crowded in those mid-season months, and in general, Bali is a bit more relaxed. October is not too bad either, still much less rain than November (usually, check the rainfall chart).”

I agree with that statement for sure, but traveling to Bali during Christmas time & New Year’s Eve can be an incredible experience. I spent Christmas Day lounging at a day club and absolutely loved it!  

IS BALI A DANGEROUS PLACE TO VISIT?

Absolutely not! Bali is completely safe to visit, and I’ve honestly never felt like I was in any danger while there. While just like a vacation to anywhere in the world, you want to make sure you’re traveling wisely and acting responsibly.

The only dangerous or unsafe behavior I’ve heard of is from “motorcycle thieves or purse-snatchers.” These are people that will try and grab purses or backpacks from people while riding on the back of a motorcycle. But as long as you pay attention to your belongings, nothing bad will happen.  

What I will  say in this section, though, is that you NEED to be extremely careful if you decide to rent a scooter in Bali. I’d say that’s actually the most dangerous thing on the island! I drive very cautiously when riding my moto , and I’ve never been in an accident (knock on wood), but I’ve had several friends end up in the hospital with serious injuries.

Nevertheless, I wouldn’t let that stop you from enjoying the feeling of exploring the island on two wheels. The scooter rides through rice terraces are one of my favorite things about living in Bali, and it’s a great, cheap, and efficient way to experience Bali. Just make sure the person driving is confident and skilled. You should also avoid driving during peak traffic hours.

Best Bali Trip Travel Insurance

I never travel anywhere without booking a travel insurance policy . This is essential for all Bali visitors!

So I’ll repeat…

Please, do NOT visit Bali WITHOUT Travel Insurance!

It’s unfortunately all too common that people come to Bali, get into a scooter accident, and end up needing a lot of medical attention. This, as you can imagine, is not cheap, and while the Bintangs and good vibes are, don’t expect medical treatment as a foreigner to also be of great value! These bills will add up, and sometimes they won’t even operate before they know you’re covered.

I’ve had at least 4 friends now get in serious accidents, but only half of them had travel insurance to cover their needs. Trust me – especially if you plan on driving or getting on the back of a moto (which you most likely will), you’ll want peace of mind to make sure you’re covered.

You also need to consider other issues that could arise, such as theft, boat sinking or water damage, or catching dengue. Trust me when I say these warnings aren’t to scare you, but real-life examples I’ve seen during my time in Bali.

I highly recommend HeyMondo due to its extensive range of cover for all situations and trip lengths. Their fair pricing and handy app allow you to manage any claims within the app and access free assistance online. This means you don’t need to rack up an expensive phone bill in Indonesia, where the charges are steep!

Nowadays, I would never travel without insurance again, especially after hearing so many of those (expensive and dangerous) horror stories from other travelers I’ve met. So, whether you need a single trip cover for two weeks in Bali or an affordable annual cover for multiple trips worldwide, be sure to buy your travel insurance before you travel, knowing that HeyMondo has your back.

Still, planning your trip? You can always get a no-commitment travel insurance quote now, so you know how much extra to budget for your vacation!

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR A TRIP TO BALI? A BASIC PACKING LIST

One of the things I love about Bali is that you really don’t need to bring all that much — especially if you’re just on a quick 10-day or two-week holiday. Also, shopping in Bali is fantastic. You’ll want to bring back a separate suitcase filled with souvenirs and clothing.

Here are a few items I think are essential for your travels to Bali!  

• Clothing: You’ll want a couple of pairs of shorts, swim trunks, t-shirts, sandals, and comfortable adventure shoes. Add one or two fancier outfits for dinners or nightlife too. Everyone will have different styles or preferences, but my main clothing tip would be to keep it light. Quick-drying clothes will be helpful, mainly because you will sweat up a storm.  
• Portable charger: Anker PowerCore Portable Charger  is one of the smallest and lightest power banks available. I carry this with me everywhere I go because I’m using my iPhone a bit more than I care to admit! Well, when you’re exploring Bali, you’ll definitely want a portable charger.
• Microfiber towel: This Rainleaf MicroFiber Towel  is budget-friendly and stylish. Plus, a quick-drying towel is a must for visiting Bali. You’ll find yourself hiking, sweating, and swimming often – and you’re really going to want one of these. I just bought one of these myself, and it’s the #1 best seller on Amazon!
• Quality sunscreen: The sun is super intense in Bali, and you’ll be out in the sun often during this Bali itinerary. So, make sure you buy some decent sunscreen before you get to Bali because it costs SO much more out there for some reason. I personally use this Neutrogena Lightweight & Water Resistant SPF,  and I love it!
• Mosquito repellent: Unfortunately, mosquitos are flying all over the place in Bali. And you really want to protect yourself when you go on long adventures. I recommend this Mosquito Repellent Bracelet . If you’re just shopping around Seminyak or chilling in Canggu, I wouldn’t worry too much, but if you’re out in nature, definitely put some on!  
• Go Pro: The GoPro Hero 11 is my favorite adventure camera, and I’m truly blown away by the hyper-smooth stability that the GoPro Hero 11 offers. You can take some epic images with this, and it’ll also be perfect for all the underwater or snorkeling shots you’ll want. For the aspiring content creators out there, combine it with a TELESIN Dome Port  for some unique, fun, and creative shots!
• Waterproof phone case: No matter what kind of phone you have, you really want to protect it during your trip. This itinerary is pretty active, and if you don’t have a supportive phone case, like the JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone , I bet you’ll be paying for some phone repairs!  
• Power adapter: Last but certainly not least, this Universal Power Adapter  is just a basic travel essential that you’ll want to pick up one of these before your trip to Bali. I personally love this one and would definitely recommend it!  

THE ULTIMATE BALI TRIP ITINERARY | PLANNING A TRIP TO BALI

Alright, let’s dive into my guide for my extensive Bali holiday itinerary!

10 DAYS & TWO-WEEKS IN BALI ITINERARY

The way I’ve set up this 10-day itinerary is that it’s all focused on Bali. But if you have a full two weeks, I’ve included a trip to the Gili Islands too.

I think it’s best to do it this way because when you book round-trip boat transfers to Gili Trawangan, you can have them drop you off directly at the airport, depending on your schedule. You can book day trips or rent scooters to explore nearby attractions when you’re based in one place for a bit longer.

One thing I think is important about traveling around Bali is avoiding checking in and out of hotels and Airbnb’s every couple of days. That’s why I’ve put at least 3+ nights in each place, and you’ll get a better feeling for the area.  

The full itinerary is below, but here’s an overview of my recommended route so you can start planning:

• Uluwatu (3 Nights)
• Canggu (3 Nights)
• Ubud (4 Nights)
• Gili Islands (3-4 Nights for Two-Week Itinerary)

You might not have the time, energy, or money to do everything on this Bali itinerary, but I wanted to include as much information as possible. So without further ado, let’s get down to the day-to-day itinerary activities!!

BEST PLACES TO STAY ON THIS ITINERARY FOR BALI

Bali is home to some of the world’s most gorgeous luxury resorts and private villas but also has an extensive variety of mid-range hotels and backpacker hostels. It depends on your budget and how much you want to spend. I’ve compiled a fun selection of my top recommended accommodation for each destination on my Bali itinerary. I know you’ll enjoy your stay at any of the options below:

WHERE TO STAY IN ULUWATU

Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu : Consistently reviewed as one of the best values in Bali, get treated like royalty here without breaking the bank. There’s a gorgeous sun terrace with a swimming pool, extremely clean and comfortable rooms, and impeccable service!  

Six Senses Uluwatu : This brand new 5-Star Luxury Resort in Uluwatu will certainly provide an unforgettable stay, but rooms here are costly. Its cliffside location, delicious cuisine, and immaculate attention would make for an exceptional first hotel on the island.    

Home-Bience  Hostel : If you’re a backpacker on a tight budget in Bali, look no further than staying here at Home-Bience Hostel. While it has a shared kitchen and barbeque facilities, you can also get a varied breakfast at an affordable rate too.

WHERE TO STAY IN CANGGU

Theanna Eco Villa and Spa : Top-notch luxury at bargain prices! Once you step foot inside this eco resort, you’ll fall into a state of complete tranquility. It’s consistently rated and reviewed as the best hotel and resort in Canggu, with excellent value for money and world-class service.

Kosone Hostel | Alternative Beach : I was living in Canggu when this opened (early 2019), and I’d say it’s the best hostel in Canggu! It’s got a fabulous pool with a swim-up bar, DJs spinning music all day, delicious food, comfortable beds, and rooftop jacuzzis. Do I need to say anymore? Trust me – if you’re a backpacker in Canggu, stay here!  

WHERE TO STAY IN UBUD

Hanging Gardens of Bali | Ubud’s Premiere Luxury Resort : This is the jungle resort of your dreams! “Located just 30-minute drive from the Ubud’s town center and nestled deep in the heart of Ubud’s rich rainforest preserve, this enchanting five-star luxury resort on 3.2 hectares has 44 private suites and individual villas.”  

Visesa Ubud Resort : This best-seller luxury resort has fantastic prices for the comfort you’ll receive. The villas are absolutely stunning, the staff goes above and beyond, and it has pretty much everything you look for in a resort in Ubud. Delicious food, gorgeous views, shuttle services to the center, and a full spa await you.

Wayan’s Family Hostel Ubud : If you’re looking for an excellent but cheap hostel in Ubud, look no money than this charming family-run guesthouse. It has a magnificent backpacker atmosphere, is a beautiful property, and you’ll fall in love with the staff!

WHERE TO STAY ON GILI TRAWANGAN

Pearl Of Trawangan Resort : There are tons of beautiful resorts on the Gili Islands, but this is easily my favorite! It has an unbeatable beachfront location near the main promenade. The stunning property would be an excellent pick for your time in paradise!!

Gili Castle (formerly known as Gili Backpackers) : This is where I worked when I lived on Gili T, and I’ve got nothing but fond memories of this backpacker hostel! They organize awesome parties and pub crawls, which make it easy to meet fellow travelers. There is a pool with a rock climbing wall, and all the facilities are comfortable. I’d highly recommend staying here for young travelers on a budget.

BALI ITINERARY DAY 1: INTRODUCTION TO BALI = ULUWATU BLISS (3+ NIGHTS)

Honestly, there is no better place to begin your Bali vacation than down in Uluwatu , which is at the southern tip of the island!

It’s my personal favorite area in Bali, world-famous for its surf competitions, has a really fun nightlife scene, and is undoubtedly the best part of the island for watching the sunset. Uluwatu is a place that will certainly leave an impression and will keep you coming back for more! Here you can spend your days relaxing on the beach, swimming in infinity pools, lounging at day clubs, surfing gnarly waves, or riding a scooter along epic coastlines.  

It also has a perfectly relaxed atmosphere that I absolutely love, and I could easily see myself living in Uluwatu for a couple of months sometime in the future. There really is no shortage of amazing things to do in Uluwatu , which I’ve discussed for day 2. Since it’s your first day on the island, take the evening to relax at your resort, enjoy a lovely evening meal, and hopefully conquer any jet lag you’re feeling.  

If you’re up for it, you could enjoy dinner and cocktails your first evening having dinner soaking up the vibe. I recommend one of Jimbaran Bay’s cliffside restaurants or candlelit dinners on Jimbaran Bay, about a 15-20 minute drive from Uluwatu.

“Perched atop distinctive rock formations along Jimbaran’s pristine sunset coast, Rock Bar Bali is widely respected as one of the globe’s most popular sunset, cocktail, and entertainment venues. Showcasing unparalleled views from 14 meters above the Indian Ocean, Rock Bar is accessible via AYANA’s dramatic cliffside inclinator. Featuring a glamorous sunset vibe, and a seductive after-dark ambiance, listen to premier international DJs as they heighten your experience from a custom DJ booth carved directly into the cliff face”.

BALI ITINERARY DAY 2: ULUWATU BEACH EXPLORATIONS & NIGHTLIFE

Everyone will be different, depending on how you want to spend your Bali vacation. Do you want to treat this as a relaxing holiday, or are you more adventurous? Do you want to be surrounded by people and experience luxurious beach clubs, or do you prefer solitude and exploring quieter areas?

No matter what kind of traveler you are, I’ve listed a few of my favorite activities in Uluwatu and the south coast of Bali, and I’m sure this will keep you super busy.

ULUWATU HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Visit the Uluwatu Temple: “This one of six key temples believed to be Bali’s spiritual pillars, and is renowned for its magnificent location, perched on top of a steep cliff approximately 70 meters above sea level.”  After your tour of the Uluwatu Temple, I’d also suggest checking out the Kecak Fire Dance if you’re there simultaneously. It’s a unique cultural fire and traditional Balinese dance show that is definitely a superb experience.
• Watch the professional surfers at Uluwatu Beach: There are tons of different bars and restaurants to choose from, but sit back, grab a Bintang (local beer), and watch from above while these pros amaze you with their skills.  
• Explore all the beautiful beaches around Uluwatu: You’re spoiled for choice here with beaches like Suluban Beach, Padang Padang, Dreamland Beach, Bingin Beach, Melasti Beach, Green Bowl Beach, and Pandawa Beach.
• Never miss a sunset. Uluwatu is home to the most magical sunsets practically every evening, so make sure you plan accordingly! Find an infinity pool, rooftop bar, or restaurant terrace, and soak it up!
• Check out a day club: Sundays Beach Club, Finns Beach Club, OMNIA, Karma Beach Club, etc. Honestly, there are tons of epic places to spend a day, but they can be a bit pricey if you’re a backpacker on a budget!  
• Sunday nights at Single Fin: This is one of the most legendary parties on the island, but they only really happen on Sunday night. Don’t get me wrong, Single Fin is an awesome bar & restaurant every night of the week, but definitely, don’t miss the Sunday night party.  
• Spend Saturday nights at Padang Padang Beach: There’s a really cool beach party every Saturday night with reggae and electronic music, lively crowds, and a unique location!  
• Rent a moto to explore it all easily: Uluwatu is one of the best areas on the island to adventure around on a moto! You can rent one for as little as $4 per day, the roads never seem too busy, and it’s just a great feeling!  
• Enjoy a meal at Cashew Tree: This will always be one of my favorite restaurants in all of Bali! They’ve got deliciously healthy smoothies, a large menu, and affordable prices. It’s a backpacker favorite as well, located nearby Bingin’ Beach.  

Check out my article about the best things to do in Uluwatu for more information. All I know is that it’s simply a breathtaking area of Bali, and it might just be hard to leave.

BALI ITINERARY DAY 3: NUSA ISLANDS DAY-TRIPPING

Located just a short 20-30 minute speedboat ride off the coast of Bali are three idyllic islands: Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida.

They are all absolutely gorgeous and have unbelievable beaches, landscapes, and some of the best snorkeling or scuba-diving in the country. I’ll talk about this at the bottom of this article, but a substitution would be spending several days on one of these islands if you care a lot about these water activities.

I think it’s a really fun and fantastic day trip since it’s just off the coast, and you can see a lot and still make it back to Uluwatu for sunset cocktails — that is if you have the energy!

There are tons of options, but here are a few of the best sellers. It really just depends if you’re more into beaches, viewpoints, swimming, or snorkeling.

BEST OF NUSA PENIDA PRIVATE FULL-DAY TOUR

Review: “Climb aboard a fast boat at Sanur Beach and cross the sea to Toyapakeh on the small island of Nusa Penida. Meet your local host on arrival and begin your private day tour. Visit the famous Kelingking Beach for the chance to take photos of the most beautiful spot on the island. Marvel at the cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, and then continue to Pasih Uug (Broken Beach) and the natural pool of Angel’s Billabong. Experience the peace and quiet of one of the less visited spots on Nusa Penida before going to the popular beach at Crystal Bay, known for its great diving and snorkeling opportunities.”  

Price:   $33

Read Reviews & Check the Availability

FROM BALI: SNORKELING DAY TRIP TO NUSA LEMBONGAN

Review: “Discover an island paradise off the south coast of Bali and snorkel at 3 different spots around the islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida in the Indian Ocean. Marvel at the wide variety of tropical fish and live coral flora and fauna.”

Price:   $68

FULL-DAY SNORKELING TRIP TO NUSA PENIDA & MANTA POINT

Review: “Nusa Penida is a perfect spot for snorkeling and exploring marine life as you’ll see on this full-day trip. Spot the ocean sunfish, or mola mola and the great manta rays on some of the most amazing drift dives in Indonesia. Board the boat at Sanur Beach for the ride to Nusa Penida and your first snorkeling session of the day at Manta Point. Marvel at the majestic manta rays, which grow up to 6 meters in length. Take some time to enjoy a swim or to relax on the boat, before your second snorkeling session. Afterwards, savor a delicious lunch on the boat.”   

Price:  $132

Check out this epic YouTube Video about Nusa Penida for some travel inspiration!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 4: CANGGU CHILLIN & BAR HOPPING

In only a few short years, Canggu has quickly become popular and overthrown Seminyak as “the place to be”  in Bali. It’s changed drastically since my first visit in 2015. Since then, it has   become a digital nomad hotspot loaded with trendy cafes, co-working spaces, yoga studios, beach clubs, funky bars, surf camps, and thousands of people enjoying the Canggu lifestyle!   

I was fortunate to live in Canggu for a couple of months this year, and it really is a must-visit in Bali. Here’s what you should add to your Bali itinerary for 4 days.

CANGGU HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Eat at as many different cafes as possible: Canggu is easily one of the top “foodie hotspots” I’ve ever visited in my entire life. There are literally dozens of places you should try! A couple of my personal favorites are Milk & Madu, The Shady Shack, Motion Cafe, Peleton Supershop, Cinta Cafe, and Milu by Nook.
• Take a surfing lesson: If you’re new to the sport, Canggu can be an excellent place to learn the basics of surfing! While the waves can be a bit rough on some days, the surf camps are awesome in Canggu and will be a great way to spend a couple of hours. Take this tour  as an introduction to the sport.
• Watch the sunset every night on the beach: There are tons of different little local bars & restaurants along the beach, and they tend to put out bean bags and tables during the sunset. Grab a coconut and a beer, and watch the sky change colors to gorgeous orange and pink hues.
• Relax & swim at Alternative Beach Pool & Hostel: This venue is becoming super popular in Canggu. It’s got a perfect temperature pool, decent food options, and a nice sandy vibe hence the name.
• Spend a luxurious day at Finns Beach Club: If you’re not on the strictest budget, why not book a daybed at Finn’s for an easygoing day at a gorgeous venue?
• Stop by AMO Spa for one of their famous facials, relaxing massages, and an Epsom salt jacuzzi session: I’m sad I didn’t discover this place sooner because it ended up being one of my favorite spots in Canggu. The sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and cold plunge circuit are an outstanding endorphin rush!
• Go Canggu nightlife bar hopping: There are plenty of places to visit whether you go for drinks at Old Man’s, cocktails at La Brisa, or find your way to the hidden bar in the supermarket along the  “Canggu shortcut.”  Other really awesome bars I enjoy are The Lawn (awesome pool included), Pretty Poison, and Deus Ex Machina! You can check out this article about the best bars in Canggu for more information on the nightlife!

Check out this epic YouTube video for some more Canggu Travel Information & Inspiration!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 5: SURF, EAT, REPEAT & TANAH LOT TEMPLE SUNSET

Spend another day exploring everything (mainly the cafes) that Canggu has to offer. Do some yoga, surf, hit a co-working space, cross-fit, join a beach clean up, and more!

For sunset, I’d recommend renting a moto and driving down the road (only 20-25 minutes) to the Tanah Lot Temple . It’s one of Bali’s most important landmarks, famed for its unique offshore setting and sunset backdrops. It’s an ancient Hindu shrine perched on top of an outcrop amidst constantly crashing waves.

There’s a small entrance fee of 60,000 IDR ($4 USD), and you can easily spend an hour or two walking around the coastline and enjoying the scenic views.  

BALI ITINERARY DAY 6: SEMINYAK SHOPPING, DAY CLUBS & NIGHTLIFE

Continuing on with this Bali trip planning, I’d recommend making the short drive from Canggu down to Seminyak for a day of shopping and beach clubs. Seminyak is one of the fancier and more developed regions on the island and is full of awesome things to do, places to eat, and fantastic souvenir shopping!  

Now, on this itinerary, I’ve only listed one day in Seminyak because the last time I visited, I felt it was starting to get a bit too overcrowded. Still, you could easily stay here for several days and explore everything this place offers.

SEMINYAK HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Souvenir shop til’ you drop: For me, I think the Seminyak, Legian, and Kuta area is the best for buying all your souvenirs in Bali. Just remember to haggle, or the locals will take you for a ride. Most prices in all the souvenir stalls are negotiable!
• Visit Potato Head Beach Club: I’ve visited the world-famous Potato Head several times, and it remains one of my favorite spots in Seminyak! It’s a gorgeous beachfront property, has tons of fancy daybeds and loungers, and the food is absolutely delicious! While Potato Head Beach Club is a bit costly (for Bali standards), it’s worth stopping by for a swim, a meal, and a beer. There’s a lively atmosphere, and it can be a great place to meet people – especially around the swim-up bar.
• Relax on bean bags and under umbrellas at La Plancha Seminyak: One of the most colorful bars & restaurants on the beach you’ll ever see. During sunset, they’ve got a fun DJ spinning, decent prices, and an overall fantastic vibe you’re guaranteed to love!
• Pool party at Mrs. Sippy: This is the largest saltwater pool and one of the best pool party hotspots in Bali! Sippy regularly has international DJs come to perform (I saw Pete Tong there earlier this year), and you’ll love watching people jump from the high platform all day long.
• Grab a cup of coffee at Revolver: If you’re a coffee snob, you have to try a cup from Revolver, known to be the best coffee in Seminyak!
• Party it up at the Legendary Nightlife: Kuta & Seminyak are two areas that are quite popular for their bar and nightclub scene. Here are a few of my favorite spots: Motel Mexicola, SkyGarden, Ku De Ta, Cocoon, Woobar, and JENJA.

SEMINYAK TOURS

Seminyak balinese cooking class & market tour.

Review:   “Learn how to cook authentic Balinese dishes with your friendly and experienced local chefs in Seminyak. Join this fun cooking course and bring back some Balinese recipes and newly acquired skills from this 4.5-hour cooking class.”   

Price:   $35.00

Read Reviews & Check the Availability  

BALI ITINERARY DAY 7: UBUD CAFES, MONKEYS, TEMPLES, AND YOGA

Now that you’ve gotten plenty of time to explore Bali’s popular beach areas, the time has come to make the hour’s drive up to the cultural and spiritual capital of Bali.

Many people plan a trip to Bali and immediately add Ubud to their itinerary. That’s because there is truly something magical in the air at Ubud. The minute you step foot in this town, you will slowly start to feel your stress & worries float away.

Ubud is also a fantastic jumping-off point for adventuring around the rest of the island.

UBUD HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

For your first day in Ubud, though, here’s what I would suggest crossing off your bucket list!

• Try out trendy cafes, vegan eats & smoothie bowls: Ubud is another incredible destination for food, and you could easily spend 3 days here eating at as many places as possible and still only scratch the surface. A few of my favorites you MUST TRY are ZEST, Sayuri Healing Food, Alchemy, KAFE, and Clear Cafe.
• Get up close and personal with monkeys: Well, strolling through the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is the best place to do it. Just be careful. The monkeys at this magical sanctuary  aren’t always as friendly as you’d hope! It’s centrally located in town, super cheap, and a super fun way to spend an hour.
• Legends of the Hidden Temples: Rent a moto, and explore as many of the beautiful temples in the Ubud area as possible. There are literally dozens, and all of them are gorgeous. A few top picks are Pura Tirta Empul, Pura Taman Saraswati, and Goa Gajah!
• Do some Y-O-G-A: There are some fantastic yoga studios in Ubud, and even if it’s not your thing, I’d recommend trying it out. My first experience with Bikram yoga was in Ubud, and it was a sweaty experience I’ll never forget.  
• Ubud Art Market and beyond: Strolling around downtown Ubud has some really fantastic shopping opportunities. You can find some awesome stuff from the traditional art market, souvenir stalls, and trendy fashion stalls here.

 UBUD TOURS

Ubud balinese cooking class at an organic farm.

Review: “Discover the culinary secrets of Bali at an exclusive cooking class at an organic farm in the lush tropics surrounding Ubud. Visit a local market and experience everyday life, before preparing a regular or vegetarian meal with the help of a chef.”  

BALI ITINERARY DAY 8: TEGALALANG RICE TERRACES, BALI SWING & CAMPUHAN RIDGE WALK

Ubud still has so many places to teach you about Balinese culture and beauty, like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the famous swings that almost every influencer has taken pictures at while visiting Bali. These are all ideal for your second day here.

HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Visit the rice terraces: Located just a quick twenty-minute scooter ride from downtown Ubud is the Instagram-famous and undeniably gorgeous Tegalalang Rice Terraces . It’s one of the most stunning tourist destinations in Bali and will certainly impress you with its sprawling views of lush green valleys, rice paddies, and towering palm trees! It’s completely free to walk through, but I would bring money for any Bali swings you want to do, coconuts, cold drinks, meals, etc.

• Catch the rice terrace sunrises: If you’re willing to wake up early, watching the sunrise & witnessing the light rays shine through the palm trees is a sight you must see to believe! It’ll be one of the most peaceful ways to start your day, and then you can spend the next 3-4 hours exploring the area. If you head there around mid-day, though, expect big crowds and intense humidity (which can make for some sweaty explorations)!

When you’re done hiking around the rice terraces, I’d recommend picking one of the restaurants up at the top for a bite to eat! It’s a pretty epic place to enjoy a refreshing smoothie bowl & fresh coconut water!

• Terrace River Pool Swing: A few minutes from the main rice terraces is this super fun zip-lining and Bali Swing mini-amusement park called Terrace River Pool Swing . It’s also free to walk through and take photos, but you’ll have to pay if you want to do any of the activities. My friend Vanessa and I spent a good hour here and loved it!  

• Campuhan Ridge Walk: The Campuhan Ridge Walk is the best-known Ubud hiking trail and is a fantastic place to stroll during the sunset (or any time of the day, really). The sparse crowds and the aesthetically rich vistas will remind you why people worldwide come to Bali. The trail starts at the historical origin of Ubud, the confluence (or Campuhan) of the Wos Rivers. You’ll get some epic hilltop views as you stroll along the nice paved trail and will be surrounded by Ubud rice fields and a deep gorge with a river rushing through it. It’s only about 1.5 kilometers long, so it is popular as a place to work up a sweat. If you’re not too exhausted after exploring the rice terraces, I would say this is an absolute must-do in Ubud!  

Check out this video for a bit of travel inspiration and what to expect!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 9: MT. BATUR SUNRISE HIKE & SPA RELAXATION RECOVERY

Admire the panoramic view of the three volcanoes of Mt. Agung, Mt. Abang, and Mt. Rinjani in Lombok in the majestic sunrise over the clouds from the crater of Mt. Batur!

For adventure travelers, I’d highly recommend waking up super early and beginning the trek to the top of Mt. Batur to witness one of the most magnificent sunrises you will ever see!  

Fair warning, though, this hike is known to be a bit intense and is not for the faint-hearted. Unfortunately, this is one of the few main activities I haven’t gotten the chance to do myself yet, but everyone speaks so highly of it!

There are a few different tours to choose from, and it just depends on what piques your interest the most! Read through some of their itineraries, and browse through all their company reviews.  

• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek with Breakfast
• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek with Hidden Waterfall
• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek & Hot Springs

“Head up the mountain along a less-crowded hiking trail that follows the volcano’s eastern slope. During the ascent, you’ll trek along a 3-kilometer-long trail. The trail is of moderate difficulty, and passes through lush tropical jungles. On reaching the top you’ll enjoy breakfast cooked by steam from the volcano. Sip hot tea or coffee at leisure while watching the magical sunrise. Afterwards, your trek continues to the main crater rim of the volcano, at 1,717 meters above sea level. Take a different route down the mountain, starting from the southwestern crater rim. The journey ends with a chance to soak in the crystal-clear waters of a hot spring to soothe away any aches and pains you may have.”  

UBUD SPA RECOVERY HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

After an early morning wake-up and a long day of climbing up a volcano, you will be ready for a little bit of #self-care and pampering! Ubud was the first time I booked a full-day spa package, and the overall experience blew me away.

I only paid $120 USD, but I received a body scrub, 60-minute massage, herbal bath, healthy lunch, manicure, and pedicure!! It was called DIVINE PAMPERING!!

• Relax at Tasku Spa: Countless different spas in Ubud would be perfect, but I went to Taksu Spa | Ubud’s Premiere Wellness Center  for my spa treatment. They didn’t pay me to say this or anything. I just loved my experience and would highly recommend it to fellow travelers! If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, though, you can visit any of the smaller massage parlors spread around the town!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 10: HANDARA GATE, LAKE BATAN & ULUN DANU BERATAN TEMPLE & SEKUMPUL WATERFALL

Next up on this ultimate Bali itinerary is to book a day trip, hire a private driver, or rent some scooters and explore north Bali! There’s quite a lot to see up there, and it will definitely be a pretty solid day of adventures.  

NORTH BALI HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Handara Gate : Make a quick stop over at this iconic “Bali Gate,” which is actually the entrance to a golf course. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and is a breathtaking view of green scenery and the gigantic exotic traditional Balinese gate as your backdrop.

• Lake Beratan: This is where you’ll visit the majestic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple sitting on a small island on the lake, just as you’ve seen in the postcards and Instagram shots of Bali. This lakeside temple was constructed in honor of Dewi Danu, the lake goddess, formed by a volcanic eruption 30,000 years ago.

• Sekumpul Waterfall: Quite commonly called the best waterfall in Bali. It’s just a 40-minute drive from the lake and is the perfect place to spend a few hours! Just don’t forget your GoPro!  
• Banyumala Twin Waterfall: “This stunningly beautiful waterfall is perfect for a quiet and peaceful afternoon in the arms of Mother Nature. The natural pool is inviting with its translucent turquoise waters. Swim in tranquility, listen to the thunderous roar of cascading waters, and take in the sights of the vibrant greenery. Although no picture will ever do this natural wonder justice, that shouldn’t stop you from that perfect Instagram shot!”
• Rent a scooter: If you’re confident on a scooter, I would 100% recommend you explore by yourself. The roads are all really scenic, and I loved my experience just whippin’ around the North. It’s higher elevation, which means it’s less hot, and the way the clouds sit upon the hills is majestic!  

NORTH OF BALI TOURS

Northern charm: lake bratan, handara gate, waterfall & swing.

This tour company offers a trip that goes to most of these places and would be a great way to see everything with a professional guide. The price includes all entrance fees (which can actually add up) and has excellent reviews!  

HIRE A CAR WITH A PRIVATE DRIVER FOR 10 HOURS

I remember when I first visited Bali and discovered you could hire a car with a driver to take you anywhere you wanted to go for less than $50! It’s such a fantastic deal, especially if you’re traveling with a significant other or a group of friends!  

Price:   $45.00

BALI ITINERARY DAYS 11-14: EXPERIENCE PARADISE ON THE GILI ISLANDS

Now, if you’ve got more than 10 days in Bali, this is where I’d suggest sailing over to the Gili Islands — one of my favorite destinations in Indonesia! I actually spent a few months living on Gili Trawangan working at a party hostel back in 2015, and it was one of the highlights of my time backpacking through Southeast Asia.

A trip to the Gili Islands is a trip to paradise! The color of the water here will honestly leave you speechless, and I’m just obsessed with the fact that pretty much anytime you go snorkeling/ scuba-diving out there, you’ll be swimming with turtles. There is top-notch nightlife, incredible restaurants, a relaxed atmosphere, gorgeous villas, and the most jaw-dropping sunsets every night!!

Here is a quick breakdown of every island:

• Gili Trawangan = Party Island
• Gili Meno = Honeymoon Island
• Gili Air = Best of Both Worlds / Family Friendly

To get to the Gili Islands, you’ll need to talk to any travel agent in Ubud to organize the hotel pick-up and transfer schedule. You can pick various times, but I’d recommend doing the earliest one possible. It’s a couple hours’ drive to the port and then another couple of hours to the islands!

GILI ISLANDS HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Go snorkeling or scuba-diving every day: The water is crystal clear here, and you can see some pretty awesome marine life just off the shores of each of the three islands! For scuba divers, make sure you chat with some of the dive centers to discuss the best dive sites!
• Watch the sunset every night: Grab a cocktail or a coconut at one of the many beach bars, and watch while the sky dips beneath the horizon in the future and lights up the sky in pretty much every color of the rainbow.
• Party it up: Gili Trawangan is easily one of the best party islands in Southeast Asia , and you can find yourself bar hopping every night if you want to.
• Bike ride around the island: There are no cars on the Gili’s, so I’d recommend renting a bike for at least one day and riding all the way around the island!  
• Enjoy a psychedelic experience: You may or may not be interested in this, but you can buy magic mushrooms in Indonesia quite easily! They’re readily available at many beach bars and shops, and they’re a super fun way to spend a few hours!    

ARRIVAL AT BALI DENPASAR AIRPORT

Once you’ve landed in Bali, successfully made it through immigration and customs, and collected your bags – you’ll need to get your transportation sorted to your first hotel. I must warn you that Bali’s worst part is the Ngurah Rai International Airport !  

You will be harassed by countless people asking you for a taxi, which can be overwhelming after a long-haul flight. That’s why I’d strongly suggest booking a Bali Airport Private Transfer beforehand!   

There are tons of different Bali transfer companies, and most hotels will offer this service (but charge way too much), but I really love this one through Get Your Guide – Bali Airport Private Transfer ! I’ve personally used this service before, and for only $18, it’s a pretty fantastic deal!

It’s really nice to have this all handled before arriving at the airport because it makes for a stress-free arrival! Most Bali car drivers are super friendly and are happy to chat about their favorite things on the island, food, etc.

BEST ITINERARY FOR BALI SUBSTITUTIONS

Alright, so I know I just went over so much information, but now I’m offering up a few other possible Bali itinerary ideas! The truth is that every traveler is a bit different, and there is no right way to spend 10 days or two weeks exploring Bali!  

• Spend more time on the Nusa Islands: With fantastic marine biodiversity, rugged landscapes, and pristine beaches – taking the ferry over to the Nusa Islands and spending 3-4 days over here would be a great option.
• Book a few nights at Mt. Kintamani instead of Ubud: This is a really gorgeous part of Bali, and you wouldn’t believe some of the gorgeous resorts up there. It’ll also make the sunrise hike a lot easier, and you could even attempt to do it on your own to save money!

• Relax & slow down in Sanur: This sleepy coastal town was one of the very first places I visited in Bali, and I honestly loved it. While it may not have the gorgeous coastlines like in Uluwatu or the trendy cafes in Canggu, it’s definitely a comfortable spot with some lively resorts, beautiful white sand beaches, and a nice relaxing vibe. There’s great souvenir shopping, an awesome night market, and overall a solid place to spend a few days!  

BALI ITINERARY TRAVEL TIPS

Bring an international driver’s license.

Fair warning – there’s a good chance that you will get pulled over while driving around Bali! The local cops in Bali are, well… they can be rather CORRUPT. Not all of them, but there’s a huge issue with cops extorting cash from tourists!  

I’ve been harassed almost every time I drive around Bali (for longer-distance trips), but if you have the proper paperwork and an International Driver’s License , you shouldn’t have any problems. Most of the time, they are just security checkpoints on major roads.

If you do get pulled over and they are giving you a difficult time… just try and BRIBE THEM. Hand them over a 50,000 IDR bill, and then show them an empty wall! Simply drive off, and see if that works.

BE CAREFUL WITH THE MONEY EXCHANGE PLACES

They are notorious on the island for scamming tourists, so my recommendation would be to just use the ATMs to get your money. Also, make sure you bring a credit card with no international withdrawal fees! Most tour agencies, restaurants, and bars accept credit cards these days!

DON’T TRUST THE MONKEYS

If this is your first time traveling through Southeast Asia, you might not understand how evil monkeys can actually be! Don’t have any loose jewelry around them, don’t smile at them, don’t look at them directly in the eyes, etc. Just be super cautious with them!  

Check out these YouTube videos below for First Time Travelers to Bali!

HOW TO GET AROUND IN BALI

Use a rideshare app.

There are three main Rideshare apps in Bali: UBER, GOJEK, and GRAB! Download all three of these before landing, and you’ll always be able to find a ride. I’ve never had any issues using any of these platforms, and it is definitely the easiest way to get around. You can even call a MOTO GoJek, and they’ll offer you a helmet, and you sit behind them!  

RENT A SCOOTER

Scooters are an extremely popular way for travelers in Bali to explore the island. Especially around Canggu, Uluwatu, and Ubud – it makes a huge difference if you have your own moto !  

HIRE A PRIVATE DRIVER

For $40-$60 per day, you can Hire a Private Driver (depending on how long you hire for)! For example, if you’re booking a taxi from Uluwatu to Canggu, why not just hire the driver for the entire day, and go explore as much as possible? It really just depends on how you want to spend your days!  

INTERESTED IN SCUBA DIVING?

If you’ve found yourself with some more time to gallivant around Indonesia, I’d highly recommend booking a flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo. So you can visit the wondrous Komodo National Park  and experience some of the world’s most unbelievable marine biodiversity and scuba-diving.  

I’ve now visited Komodo two different times, and it is a remarkable destination that deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list! Komodo National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve!  

The color and clarity of the water are stunning, the landscape is completely gorgeous, and getting up close and personal with Komodo Dragons is an experience you’ll never forget. But the real magic begins when you strap on your fins and snorkel mask and start exploring the underwater scenery!

It really is the best snorkeling and scuba-diving I’ve witnessed in my life! It’s also one of the best places to do a liveaboard in Southeast Asia, as the prices are relatively affordable (compared to other popular scuba destinations).  

Check out these Komodo National Park liveaboards to view dates, prices, and availability to see if you can squeeze one into your Bali itinerary!

• Adelaar Liveaboard (Bali – Komodo)
• Moana Liveaboard
• Indo Aggressor (Komodo National Park)

PURCHASE THE BALI LONELY PLANET & POCKETBOOK

No matter how long your Bali vacation is, I’d also recommend picking up one of the Bali Lonely Planet Travel Guide Books ! They are honestly loaded with insider tips, restaurant recommendations, and fun day ideas! I know I’ve gone into a  lot of detail in this post (so maybe you should bookmark this for your trip), but these are always handy!  

PLANNING A TRIP TO BALI, INDONESIA & SOUTHEAST ASIA?

I’ve spent a lot of time backpacking around this marvelous region of the world, and I’ve written a rather large amount to help you figure out your ideal upcoming vacation! Look through some of my favorite articles below, and feel free to contact me if you have any questions about my Bali itinerary travel guide!

Further Reading:

• The Ultimate Ubud Itinerary | 3 Days In Bali’s Hidden Paradise
• Top 12 Music Festivals In Bali To Experience This Year
• The Ultimate Backpackers Guide to Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
• 17 Amazing Things To Do On Gili Trawangan
• The 7 Best Places to Eat on Gili Trawangan
• Komodo Island Trip Review | Sailing from Lombok to Flores
• The 5 Best Places to Trip on Magic Mushrooms in Southeast Asia
• The 15 Best Places to Party in Southeast Asia
• 20 Best Beaches In Malaysia | Beach Resorts & Islands
• The 20 Best Beaches In Vietnam | Epic Islands, Beach Resorts + Hotels
• The 20 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka
• Thailand Itinerary | 10 Days In The Land Of Smiles

THANKS FOR READING MY BALI ITINERARY TRAVEL GUIDE!!

Share this bali trip planner with your squad.

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Looking for sample itinerary on your trip to Bali? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ox35Xqg55OI&t=755s

Indeed this content is really helpful and interesting. In line with that maybe you would like to consider as well the sample itinerary on my youtube channel :) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ox35Xqg55OI&t=755s

Hi, I’m thinking of going this November, I know it’s “rainy season” but it’s not a terrible time to go is it?

Thanks, Lisa

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Hi! This guide has been really useful. But I would love some advice on how to book some of the hotels, trips etc, And can I do this with a flight included? I am a 53 year old female who will be travelling alone and as you may have guessed I have only ever been on package holidays before but would love to do Bali on a multi hotel basis to ensure I see as much as possible in either 2 or 3 weeks. Look forward to some replies – all advice welcomed xx

I agree that Bali is one of the best places to stay. I still have never been there. Hope to get there this year! Bali is definitely on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

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When we, as Australians can travel again (once our international borders reopen), we are planning on heading direct to Bali on our way through Asia. We have been to Bali many times but amazingly have never been to Uluwatu or Gili T. You have definitely sold us on both!

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Southeast Asia

• The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide for First Timers

To be honest with you I knew almost nothing about Bali before I visited. Sure, I’ve seen a million pictures of this dream island, I knew that every proper Instagrammer had been there at least once and I saw Eat, Pray, Love, but that was it.

If you are like me, I have some good news for you: this Bali travel guide for first-timers is everything you’re gonna need! In this post, I put together everything you need to know if you are traveling to Bali for the first time. So let’s dive in!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

Table of Contents

Bali is located in the Indian Ocean, it’s by far the most famous of the more than 17,000 islands of Indonesia. The island sits east of Java (the most populous island in the world) and west of Lombok.

I know it seems like a tiny island on the map but actually, Bali is pretty big: the distance is 145 km from west to east and 85 km from north to south. Apart from the main island, the Nusa Islands (Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida) also belong to Bali.

Bali is home to more than 4.3 million people. About 90% of the population are Balinese, the other ethnic groups are Javanese, Baliaga, and Madurese.

The official language is Indonesian, but many people use the Balinese language in everyday life. English is widely used as well due to the high level of tourism.

Indonesia is the biggest Muslim country in the world, accounting for 13% of the world’s total Muslims. One of the most interesting facts about Bali is that it’s the only exception, as the island is the only Hindu island in Indonesia.

Actually, this is not the standard Hindu religion, it’s rather a Balinese Hinduism: it’s kind of a mixture of local beliefs and Hindu influences.

Balinese people live in a magic world of people, spirits, gods, and demons. I was so surprised to see how deeply religious they are! There are over 20,000 temples in Bali and you can’t go anywhere without seeing countless offerings to the gods and spirits.

They seriously believe in karma, that life is governed by a system of cause and effect, action, and reaction. Their religion and culture are really interesting so try to learn about them as much as you can while you are there!

Although Bali used to have a free visa if you were visiting for less than 30 days, unfortunately, it’s no longer available.

They have a new Visa on Arrival (VoA) in place, and more than 90 countries can apply for this type of visa. In case you are coming from another country, you will need to apply for a different visa so make sure to check this in advance.

This new VoA costs 500,000 IDR ($33 US) and you can stay with this on the island for a maximum of 30 days. The visa can be extended once for another 30 days (this has an additional cost of course).

You can purchase the visa online in advance which I would strongly recommend. One thing you need to be aware of is that the visa must be used within 90 days from the date of issue, so don’t buy it earlier than 3 months from your travel date. Also, make sure to only purchase from the official website !

Don’t worry, if you can’t buy the visa online (the website doesn’t always work properly), you will still be able to do it at the airport after arrival. You’ll just have to wait in line first for the visa before proceeding to immigration.

Money in Bali

The official local currency in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR or Rp). The amounts in rupiah are usually very large because of all the zeros. $1 US is around 15,200 IDR.

Therefore the prices are often given with the thousands implied and left off of the end. So when someone says “one hundred”, they most likely mean 100,000 IDR (around $6.5 US).

Cash is the king in Bali, therefore you always need to carry around some cash in your pocket. You can generally pay with credit cards at most of the hotels and cafes in the urban area but you will need cash for everything else.

The largest denomination is the 100,000 IDR banknote so your wallet will always be stuffed with a lot of banknotes. Make sure you don’t bring your tiniest wallet with you!

You can easily find ATMs in the popular travel hubs but once you are out you will have a hard time finding a machine in the countryside. So it’s better to stack up on cash while you are in a more touristy area.

ATMs typically charge you a transaction fee for every transaction. Fortunately, it’s not that much but the bad news is that there is a daily withdrawal limit.

It can be different depending on what kind of ATM you use but it’s usually between 1.5-2.5 million IDR (around $100-170 US). So basically you have to pick up cash from an ATM almost every day (or you can use different credit cards if you have more).

Important note: Some ATMs deliver your cash first and your credit card after. If you are coming from a place that it’s the other way around you have to pay attention not to leave your card in the machine. Unfortunately, we managed to lose a credit card, most likely for this reason. So learn from our mistakes!

Of course, you can exchange all the major currencies into rupiahs at the airport or banks but you always have to pay a commission fee and the exchange rates are not always in your favor. Generally using an ATM is a better option but it’s really up to you.

Technically US dollars are not accepted in Indonesia, however, you can almost always use them in reality. You will always have to pay more in dollars (because you obviously can’t pay $1.2 US so you will pay 2), but it’s good to have a plan B if you accidentally run out of rupiahs.

Best Time to Visit Bali

Bali is located a few degrees south of the equator, therefore it has a tropical climate all year around. It means that the weather is always hot and humid and there are only two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

Generally, the rainy season is between November and March but it can vary a bit from year to year. During this time it usually rains a couple of hours in the morning and a couple of hours in the afternoon so you can still have some rain-free hours during the day if you are lucky.

Nevertheless, I still wouldn’t recommend this period for traveling especially if you’re traveling to Bali for the first time.

Bali is always busy during holidays like Easter or Christmas. July and August are usually crowded too because of the national school holidays in Indonesia. So if you’re not a fan of mass tourism I would avoid these periods as well.

Based on all this, the best time to visit is May, June, or September. You will have pleasant weather with almost no rain and the beaches and famous sites will not be that crowded either.

October can still be a good time, we also visited at the end of October. We were really lucky with the weather because it only rained on our last day. On the other hand, our driver said that this time last year it was constantly raining all day long and it didn’t stop for days. So be careful with October, it can really be a hit or miss.

How Much Time Do You Need to Spend in Bali

Bali is one of the most breathtaking dream destinations in the world and you can easily spend months on the island without ever getting bored. If you’re traveling to Bali for the first time, it’s best to spend at least 2 weeks in Bali to be able to properly explore the island.

When we visited Bali for the first time, we spent 8 days on the island and it felt really short. We managed to cover all the famous sites but in exchange, we spent almost no time at the beach and we were extremely tired at the end. Needless to say, it was totally worth it!

How much time you need to spend in Bali also depends on what you want to see and do. If you are only looking for beautiful beaches and you wish to relax all day long, one week could be enough.

However, there are so many wonderful sites to explore and various activities to do, that you will need at least 2 weeks if you really want to see the best of Bali.

Luckily the cost of living in Bali is totally budget-friendly so if your time allows or if you’re a digital nomad, you can even make it your base for a few months.

Transportation in Bali

Public transportation.

Public transportation is basically non-existent in Bali. All right, this is not exactly true: there are some public minibuses called bemo. If you are in a really adventurous mode and you wanna try getting around like a local you can opt for a ride. But for real transportation, I wouldn’t consider this as an option.

Renting a bicycle is possible but Bali is far too big for biking around. However, if you wanna explore the countryside close to your accommodation it can be a great way to get around.

The cheapest and most popular way of transportation is renting a scooter. However, if you don’t have experience in scooter riding I wouldn’t recommend it.

Why? Because the traffic is crazy! Cars, scooters, chickens, dogs, all share the same lane and they are coming from every direction possible. No matter where you go, the streets are always full of scooters and the roads are often in a really bad condition.

Scooter accidents are not exceptional and trust me, you don’t want to spend your holiday lying in the hospital.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not against scooters at all. I’m just saying you have to be really, really prepared and have a ton of experience before trying to get around this way. If you’re planning to drive a scooter, you might be interested in reading a comprehensive guide about scooter rental in Bali !

And please don’t forget about travel insurance! Unfortunately, accidents can happen anytime and it’s better to be prepared for that. After many hours of research, I decided to choose SafetyWing and I can honestly recommend them!

You can find a taxi practically anywhere and it works the same way as it does in Europe or America. In Bali, almost everyone is a taxi driver. Seriously. You will be constantly asked by the locals where are you headed and whether if you will need a ride. Everyone will be glad to take you anywhere.

There are two types of taxis in Bali: the Bluebird taxis and the rest. The Bluebird taxis always go by the meter and they are safe to use. They even have their own app which you can download and after registration, you can summon a taxi as you please.

The non-Bluebird taxis on the other hand are often corrupt and they usually play dirty tricks with the tourists, like claiming to have a broken meter or taking you on a long road to pay more.

Private driver

I think having a private driver in Bali is the best option ever, especially it will be your first time in Bali and you don’t have any experience in scooter riding. It is generally more expensive than renting a scooter but in exchange, it takes away all the stress and you don’t have to worry about transportation during your stay.

We also decided to hire a private driver and I’m so glad we did! I received a recommendation from another Hungarian girl and that’s how we found Putu . He is the sweetest guy ever!

I contacted him while we were still at home. As I mentioned before I’m a big planner so I’ve already planned most of our itinerary before we first spoke.

Therefore we only needed to finalize the program I had in mind and he helped me organize every little detail. So by the time we arrived in Bali we already had a perfect itinerary and everything was taken care of.

How does it work in real life?

To be honest I had no clue how does it work in real-life and I received many questions about it so I will share my experience. When we arrived at the airport Putu was already there, waiting for us. He took us to our hotel (since it was already late in the afternoon) and we agreed on which time he should pick us up the next day.

The next morning he picked us up as we agreed and from that point, he was always with us until he took us back to the hotel at the end of the day. He drove us from location to location and while we were away exploring he waited for us in the car or spent the time with other drivers (who were waiting for their clients as well).

Yes, even when we were out for hours! Sometimes he even joined us in exploring the area so he could tell us stories about the place and Balinese life in general.

He was really flexible with the timing as well. We wanted to do a lot of sunrise tours so he usually picked us up very early. And by that, I mean very, very early.

Like 1 am or 3 am. Yes, you’ve read it right! (I know, you must think I’m crazy. Wait until you see my sunrise pictures!) The only general rule is that they don’t work more than 14 hours a day which is totally understandable.

Long story short, I really can’t recommend enough to have a private driver. Everything was just so perfect!

What to Wear in Bali

Despite Bali being a very religious island, there is no strict dress code for tourists. The only exceptions are the religious sites where you always have to wear a sarong (and a scarf if your shoulders are not covered by your clothes). Don’t worry, if you don’t own a sarong you can always rent it for a small amount of money at every religious site.

As I mentioned before, the weather in Bali is always hot and humid. Therefore you will most likely stroll around in shorts and T-shirts or dresses. Try to pack lightweight cotton and loose clothes! A beach hat or baseball cap is also a good idea to protect your head from the sun.

Regarding shoes, you can almost always wear flip-flops or sandals. But having a comfy sneaker in your suitcase is a huge bonus if you wanna go for a hike. If you plan to hike Mount Batur you should prepare with some warm clothes too!

I know it sounds weird to pack a jacket and a warmer sweater for Bali, but trust me, you’re gonna need it.

Best Places to Visit in Bali + Where to Stay in Bali

There are just so many things do to and see in Bali that I can go on and on for hours without ever repeating myself. Since this is a Bali travel guide for first-timers I will give you a rough overview of the different areas of Bali including the best places to visit and the best places to stay in each area.

The southern side of Bali is the most touristy area on the island. Denpasar (the capital city of Bali) is located here together with the Ngurah Rai International Airport. South Bali is packed with beautiful beaches, posh cafes, fancy restaurants, and cool party places.

If you’re a foodie like me, you will love this list of the  best cafes in Canggu ! Bali is famous for its sunsets as well and the southern part is one of the best areas to find the best sunsets in Bali .

Best places to visit in South Bali: Uluwatu Temple, Tanah Lot, Nyangnyang Beach, Nusa Dua Beach, Kuta Beach, Cabina Bali

Where to stay in South Bali

As I mentioned before the southern side of the island is the most touristy area so you will find a wide range of hotels to choose from. If you’re traveling to Bali for the first time I would recommend staying at either Seminyak or Kuta but Canggu , Uluwatu and Jimbaran could be a great option as well.

Best places to stay in Seminyak

LUXURY – The Legian Seminyak, Bali

This beachfront hotel offers beautiful rooms in a scenic setting as you’ll get stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The Legian Seminyak also has plenty of fantastic facilities including a three-tiered swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center.

MID-RANGE – Montigo Resorts Seminyak

Montigo Resorts is situated right next to Potato Head Beach Club so is in a great location. The hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the center of Seminyak, and there are two swimming pools on-site as well as a spa & wellness center. Not only that but Montigo Resorts also has a bar and fitness center

BUDGET – Bali Ayu Hotel & Villas

Bali Ayu Hotel & Villas is set in a great location as it’s just a 4-minute walk from the beach and it’s close to Petitenget Street. The rooms are very budget-friendly, and each one is spacious and features a balcony. Breakfast is available at the property, and there are two swimming pools.

Best places to stay in Kuta

LUXURY – The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali

This beachfront 5-star hotel is situated close to popular attractions within Kuta including Waterbom Bali and the Discovery Shopping Mall. With a large swimming pool, landscaped tropical gardens, and a spa & wellness center – this place has plenty to offer. There are also several restaurants on-site, a pool bar, and a private beach area.

MID-RANGE – Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel

Located right next to Discovery Shopping Mall and the coast, this hotel is one of the best mid-range accommodation options in Kuta. There are plenty of fantastic facilities too including two swimming pools, a spa & wellness center, and a fitness center. There’s also a variety of room options and many of them offer views of the ocean.

BUDGET – The Kana Kuta Hotel

If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation then make sure you check out the Kana Kuta Hotel. With an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center, there are lots of amenities available for guests. All the rooms are spacious too and feature air conditioning, a seating area, and an ensuite bathroom.

Central Bali

The central area is the cultural heart of Bali and it is also the most picturesque side of the island. Central Bali is home to many beautiful temples, deep river gorges, unbelievably green rice terraces, and gorgeous waterfalls.

Best places to visit in Central Bali: Ubud Monkey Forest, Campuhan Ridge Walk, Tegalalang rice terraces, Jatiluwih rice terraces, Pura Tirta Empul, Tegenungan waterfall, Tukad Cepung waterfall , Kanto Lampo waterfall

Where to stay in Central Bali

If you want to explore the best places in Central Bali I recommend staying in Ubud. Ubud is the heart of Central Bali with many hotels to choose from and it’s packed with amazing restaurants and bars as well, so it’s worth spending at least 3 days in Ubud .

Below you can find some of the best hotels to stay in Ubud. If you’re looking for something more special, check out these private pool villas in Ubud or the best bamboo houses in Bali around the city.

Best places to stay in Ubud

LUXURY – Kamandalu Ubud

Kamandalu Ubud is one of the most luxurious hotels on the island. Offering stunning views of the Petanu River and the surrounding forest, this place is the best luxury stay in Ubud. The rooms are inspired by traditional Balinese decor and most units feature a daybed and a private pool.

MID-RANGE – The Udaya Resorts and Spa

This place has a lot to offer with striking views, spacious suites, and fantastic facilities. Guests will benefit from a swimming pool, a spa & wellness center, and a restaurant that serves delicious Indonesian dishes.

BUDGET – Gita Maha Ubud Hotel by Mahaputra

Ubud is full of budget-friendly accommodation options but not many are as beautiful as this place! Gita Maha Ubud Hotel is situated just a 5-minute drive from the Royal Palace and offers an outdoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant. Each room at this hotel is incredibly spacious too, and many of them feature a private balcony.

East Bali is dominated by the largest volcano on the island: Mount Agung. This is a very active volcano with constant eruptions, therefore it is not allowed to visit.

But its little brother, Mount Batur (who is also an active volcano) is still safe and open for hiking. The nearby area is really beautiful and it is home to some of the island’s oldest villages.

Best places to visit in East Bali: Mount Agung, Mount Batur, Pura Luhur Lempuyang (Gate of Heaven), Tirta Gangga Royal Water Garden

Where to stay in East Bali

If you are traveling to Bali for the first time I would recommend you to stay either in South or Central Bali instead of East Bali. There are much more things to do in those areas and you can easily do some day trips from there to visit the best tourist spots in the east.

However, if you want to have a more unique Bali experience staying in East Bali can be great for you! You will find many amazing hotels in the area, the best places to stay are either Candidasa (close to the beach) or Sidemen (more inland with an amazing view over the volcanos).

If you’re looking for a more unique stay, you can also find the many magical bamboo houses in Bali , especially in this part of the island.

Best places to stay in Sidemen

LUXURY – Wapa di Ume Sidemen

If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, then stay at Wapa di Ume Sidemen. You’ll benefit from a variety of fantastic facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and a bar. There’s also a garden and terrace area, and bicycles are free to use. 

MID-RANGE – Alamdhari Resort and Spa

With an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the lush forests, an on-site restaurant, and a bar – Alamdhari Resort and Spa has a lot to offer guests. Breakfast is included with your stay too, and there’s a garden area where you can relax. The rooms here are stunning and many of them feature a private balcony with amazing views.

BUDGET – Sawah Indah Villa

Sawah Indah Villa is just a 30-minute drive from Tirta Gangga and is surrounded by lush rice terraces and forested mountains. Offering an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and spa treatments this hotel has everything you could need and more! The staff at the hotel can also help with vehicle rentals and organizing excursions.

Best places to stay in Candidasa

LUXURY – Candi Beach Resort & Spa

Candi Beach Resort & Spa is located along a private beach and offers three swimming pools, a variety of water sports, and a spa & wellness center. There are also several on-site restaurants so you’ll have plenty of dining options. If that’s not enough to convince you, this hotel has two bars and a tour desk that can help with excursions.

MID-RANGE – Villa Barong

Villa Barong is just a 5-minute walk from the beach and is nestled within landscaped gardens and coconut trees. There are several villas available at the property and each one offers a private pool, a modern kitchen, and a terrace area. The villas sleep up to four people so are a great option for groups and small families.

BUDGET – Rama Shinta Hotel Candidasa

This is one of the best budget-friendly accommodation options in Candidasa. Set within tropical gardens, this hotel has plenty to offer with excellent facilities and spacious rooms. Guests will benefit from an outdoor pool, an open-air restaurant, and a bar during their stay too! Staff at the hotel can also help arrange rentals and excursions.

The northern side of Bali is really different from the rest of the island. The climate is more foggy and rainy, therefore you can see many cloudy lakes, misty mountains, and some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali you’ll ever see.

Best places to visit in North Bali: Munduk Moding Plantation, Wanagiri Hidden Hill, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, Banyumala twin waterfalls, Sekumpul waterfall , Handara gate

Where to stay in North Bali

If you want to explore all the beauty the northern part of the island has to offer I recommend staying at least one night in Munduk ! It will be a totally different feeling to stay there compared to the rest of the island and the area is really beautiful too.

Best places to stay in Munduk

LUXURY – Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa

Munduk Moding Plantation is easily one of the most beautiful hotels in Bali. It’s famous for its infinity pool that offers striking views of the surrounding rice terraces and mountains. There are also plenty of other facilities at the hotel including an on-site restaurant, a spa & wellness center, and a bar.

MID-RANGE – Nadira Bali Villa

If you’re looking for mid-range accommodation in Munduk then make sure you check out Nadira Bali Villa. With an outdoor swimming pool, a sun terrace, and an on-site restaurant – this place has so much to offer. The villas and suites are also stunning and many of them offer superb views of the surrounding mountains.

BUDGET – Atres Villa

Atres Villa is just a 20-minute drive from Munduk Waterfall so is set in a great location to explore the area. This hotel also has lots of excellent facilities including an outdoor pool, a spa & wellness center, and a bar. However, the highlight of this place has to be the surrounding rice terraces!

Nusa Islands

Local people say that the Nusa Islands (Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Penida) are the perfect place to see what Bali was like 20 years ago before it became a tourist hotspot.

And it’s really true: the Nusa Islands have such a raw beauty and they are (mostly) still untouched and not packed with tourists. If you’re planning to visit the Nusa Islands, you might be interested in reading my Perfect Nusa Islands Itinerary as well!

Best places to visit in the Nusa Islands: Kelingking Beach , Rumah Pohon treehouse, Peguyangan Waterfall , Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, Devil’s Tear, Blue Lagoon

Where to stay in the Nusa islands

Most people choose to stay on Nusa Lembongan , however, I recommend staying on Nusa Penida . Nusa Penida is the biggest and most developed of the three Nusa Islands and there are so many places to visit there that you’re gonna need the most time for this island.

Best places to stay in Nusa Penida

LUXURY – Adiwana Warnakali Resort

Adiwana Warnakali Resort in Nusa Penida provides adults-only accommodation with a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, and a bar. Each accommodation at the 4-star resort has mountain views, and guests can enjoy access to a sun terrace.

MID-RANGE – Semabu Hills Hotel Nusa Penida

Perched on the quiet hills of Nusa Penida, this hotel offers sweeping views of the island and the sea beyond. Guests can take advantage of the infinity pool or try traditional meals at the on-site Asian restaurant.

BUDGET – Surya Maha Bungallo

For a budget-friendly stay in Nusa Penida, take a look at Surya Maha Bungallo. Boasting a lush garden with a stunning outdoor pool, the property offers double or twin rooms either with a garden or pool view. A daily continental breakfast is also available.

Planning a trip to Bali?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Bali. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Bali Travel Guides:

• The Ultimate 2 Weeks in Bali Itinerary for First Timers
• Top 13 Best Waterfalls in Bali You Can’t Miss
• 14 Best Cafes in Canggu, Bali – Canggu Foodie Guide
• The Perfect 3 Days in Ubud Itinerary for First Timers
• 13 Best Cafes in Ubud You Have To Try

Bali Hotel Guides:

• Where to Stay in Bali: 10 Best Areas & Hotels
• 11 Most Instagrammable & Unique Hotels in Bali
• 15 Magical Bamboo Houses in Bali You Can Actually Book
• 15 Best Private Pool Villas in Ubud for Every Budget
• Top 15 Best Airbnbs in Ubud, Bali
• Luxury Redefined: AYANA Villas Bali Hotel Review
• Romantic Getaway in Ubud: Kamandalu Ubud Hotel Review
• Hotel Review: The Udaya Resorts & Spa, Bali
• A Slice of Balinese Paradise: Wapa Di Ume Sidemen Hotel Review
• Hotel Review: Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa

Nusa Penida Travel Guides:

• The Perfect Nusa Islands Itinerary for 3 Days
• Top 16 Best Things to Do in Nusa Penida You Can’t Miss
• 21 Best Hotels in Nusa Penida for Every Budget
• Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida: Complete Guide & Tips for Visiting
• How to Visit the Famous Nusa Penida Treehouse: A Complete Guide
• Peguyangan Waterfall, Nusa Penida: All You Need to Know Before Visiting

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37 thoughts on “The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide for First Timers”

Breakfast in the pool? We’re in! 😉 Thanks for all of the great details! Bali somehow has not made it off of our Bucket List. Soon, though, and this is helpful!

Oh Bali is definitely the most magical place I’ve ever been to! I hope you can thick it off of your bucket list really soon 🙂

I’ve been daydreaming of Bali since Eat, Pray,Love! YouR beautiful photos have given me some serious wanderlust for the weekend! Thanks for sharing!

Thank you Anna! I really love that movie and everything it represents! Bali is still my favorite place on Earth and can’t wait to go back soon 🙂

Great and detailed guide, thanks, I will save it for future! Bali looks like a great escape from the chilly winter in Europe

Thank you Maria! Yes it definitely is 🙂 I’m also planning to go back soon, can’t wait!!

Just stunning! I so want to go to Bali and your pictures make me want to book a plane ticket right now! Love your comprehensive guide and all of your tips & hints!! They will definitely come in handy when I finally get to go 🙂

Your photos are incredible! This is extremely informative! I hope to be able to visit Bali soon, and use all of your useful tips.

Thank you so much! Bali is so photogenic, you simply can’t make a bad photo in Bali 🙂 I really hope you will be able to visit soon!

This is super useful and I just know someone heading over there, I will recommend reading this post. I have a love-hate relationship with Bali but I´m sure there are wonderful hidden corners of the island I had not yet discovered, so might be back one day. Thanks for sharing this informative post, x

Thank you so much for sharing it! Yeah I really get why you have a love-hate relationship with Bali, that’s why I usually try to wake up early in the morning and explore the places without the crowds or go to off the beaten path spots. It feels so much different this way! 🙂

Literally the best Bali Guide I have read! So much information and now I can plan my trip accordingly!

Thank you so much Dana! 🙂

O wow I wish I’d had this guide before my first trip to Bali! So well written, thank you for sharing! I will definitely refer back to this guide for my next trip 🙂

Thank you Ellie! Bali is really such a wonderful place 🙂

This is such a great guide and I love your writing style! Definitely saving this for a future trip and I love your advice about a driver!

Thank you so much Linnea, I’m so happy you liked it! 🙂

Bali looks so fun! Really hoping to visit there sometime this year ? love your photos!

Thank you Jen! Bali is such a wonderful place, I can only recommend!

Love this! Especially as I’m in Bali now! So detailed and helpful x

Aww thank you so much! I’m also in Bali now, love this island so much! 🙂

How much did you pay the driver each day to stay with you for the whole day? Or how much did you end up paying him in total and for how many days? I’m curious because I might do that too when I visit! It’s a great idea!

We typically paid around 600-800k IDR (42-56 USD) for one day depending on how far did we go from our hotel. It was a price per car so it would have been the same for 4 people but we were just the 2 of us. We were there first in October 2018 so these are the prices from that time. When we visited again in March 2020 we didn’t go for a trip so I don’t know the exact prices now but you can always ask our driver, Putu 🙂

Thank you! I am wanting to visit Bali for the first time this year and your guide is awesome!

Thank you so much for your lovely comment Julie! I hope your Bali trip will be amazing!

Thank you for this guide. Im celebrating my birthday in Bali and reading your blog is helping me to plan better. I am flying from Miami to Bali and the best deal its to one stop in Dubai for 7 hours. Do you happened to have a recommendation of what to do in Dubai for 7 hours? or better yet do you recommended a better route to get to Bali from the US? Thank you!

Hey! First of all, thank you so much for your lovely comment 🙂 Dubai is the biggest hub for travelers heading to Southeast Asia so I think that’s a great route. Honestly, since you are flying internationally, I’m not sure I would leave the airport. You need to be there at least 2-3 hours before your flight to Bali departs which leaves you a lot less time to explore, plus you need to stay on top of every regulation to be able to enter Dubai. That being said, since DXB is only a 15-minute drive from the Burj Khalifa, I’m sure I would pick that! You can go up to the top, or just stroll around the tower. You can also see the Dubai Fountain, the Wings of Mexico, and the Dubai Mall too because they are all in one place. Happy travels!

Thanks for the exhaustive guide. The longing to see this Paradise on Earth had been hidden deep in my heart for years. Might materialize this December when going to Thailand to attend a wedding. However, I am not so young or mobile now and wanted to ask you many many questions on how I should make the most of this long cherished dream come true. For instance, is there a lot of walking involved? What about people with limited mobility? Is there any way to talk to you or chat with you? How many days to keep? Will I be able to do it?? Thanks so much.

Hey! To be honest, Bali is not really a good place for people with limited mobility. For instance, most of the time there is no pedestrian walkway by the streets, most waterfalls are hidden deep inside a jungle and some beaches are also only reachable via stairs. That being said, you can still visit some incredible places that are easier to reach but you’ll definitely need to let go of many places. I recommend hiring a driver who can take care of your transportation and he can also help with questions about specific attractions.

hi , thank you sooo much for a very detail explaination. i am planning to visit bali in coming november. i am having few queries pls let me know 1. can i take my 3 yrs old child along with my wife? is it ok to travel with kid ? 2. if i planned to stay in candidisa – east bali — will it be long to go other places of bali ? will the travel time will be more ? 3. in november ending is it ok to travel ? u mentioned its rainy – is it rainy whole day ? 4. i am from india – can u give some more detail about currency usuage with indian rupees ?

Hey! Yes, you can take your kid, many people travel to Bali as a family holiday so it will be all good 🙂 Candidasa is quite far away from the main Bali attractions, it’s a great base to explore the east part of the island but I would recommend diving your time between Candidasa and one/two more central locations. Well, November is technically the start of the rainy season but it’s different each year so nobody can tell you how it will be this year. Normally it only rains a few times a day but it’s really a draw of luck. Sorry, I don’t have any experience with Indian rupees. Hope you will have an amazing trip!

Hi Your article for 1st timer is very useful. I am going in June 2023 as a 1st timer. I like the beach, so I will be staying in the southern part. I am thinking to hire a private guide for this trip as I prefer that way. My stay is about 5 days. Do you have any recommendation for me. If you have any suggestion for me, I really welcome to hear from you. Thank you

Hi Danny! I would recommend getting in touch with Putu, he works as a private driver on Bali and he is amazing! Here’s his Instagram where you can reach him: https://www.instagram.com/bali_travel_monkey/

Thank you Kriszti for the informative travel guide to Bali and for sharing amazing photos as well. Really helpful tips specially for first time travellers with family. I wonder if possible for you to share the contact details of Putu, the private driver you hired during your stay in Bali. I am planned to spend my holidays with my family in Bali next month. Thank you.

Hi Chona! Sure, you can find him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bali_travel_monkey/

hello ms kriszti,

thank you for sharing all these travel guides for first timers, its truly very helpful; my friend ( PWD ) is going to bali this oct and we plan to hire a driver . do you still have contact with mr PUTU or any one you can recommend.

Sure, you can reach him on his Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bali_travel_monkey/

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Ultimate Gay Travel Guide To Bali, Indonesia

There’s Bali, then there’s the real Bali . The Bali we know conjures screensaver worthy images of beaches, centuries-old temples, pampering villas and spas and maybe a healer or two. Those who have actually visited the island will argue that’s just scratching the surface. Bali is detox and spiritual quests, participating in a Hindu ceremony, rainforest trekking and learning local customs and language, and it’s a haven for gay travelers, especially with the thriving LGBT scene. Here’s our gay travel guide to Bali.

First, right off the bat, we should mention if you’re gangbusters explorative, you will inevitably (and perhaps unfortunately) discover the real “real” Bali . This includes the lack of a waste management system, giving locals no option but to throw garbage into the rivers, which carries trash into the ocean, monster waves spitting them back onto shore, sea water deemed so bad that skin disorders are a threat, particularly after monsoon season (Indonesia was listed as 2nd worst country with poorly managed plastic waste in 2015 ).

Threats are a reality with Al Qaeda’s objection of the 80 percent Hindu population and the Westerners who support the destination (while Indonesia is the largest Muslim community in the world, Bali is a predominately Hindu-practiced island nation). The 2002 and 2005 bombings still resonate with Americans.

Traffic-choked roads worsen as the rise of motorbikes create further chaos, road rage and destroy the environment. So, now… Bali. Paradise or trouble in Paradise?

Bali gets a lot of slack. While the island may be quickly developing, the infrastructure is not. And there are people like me who notice the buzzkill.

But like the rainbow that emerges after the Balinese rain clouds, Bali is slowly— very slowly—making adjustments. Indonesia is holding onto real democracy and change, a country reimagined after the collapse of the New Order in 1999. While some problems may take years to tackle, the current president Joko Widodo is aware . And he’s not the only one who wants to eat, pray and love Bali.

Hotels belonging to Bali Hotels Association practice sustainable ecological waste management, and traffic control is being explored. Furthermore, security checks are enforced at all resorts, popular restaurants and attractions, every vehicle as well as roster of guests carefully investigated. In fact, the search is so thorough security officials often check under hoods, under the cars and inside trunks, so safety is never questioned.

Thanks to gorgeous resorts, scenery and just pure fabulousness of Bali island life, the gay scene is burgeoning with international visitors. The gay strip— Dhyana Pura—is home to gay bars and gay friendly establishments, and the resorts, beaches, restaurants and attractions are unarguably paradise for the LGBT community. In fact, one doesn’t necessarily need a gay travel guide to Bali; it’s already pretty gay.

I also won’t hesitate to say Bali is one of the most exciting destinations I’ve visited. The dynamic street culture is infectious. Exoticism is rich from beach to rain forest. Centuries-old rituals are still practiced today and ancient temples are ubiquitous, as well as moss-covered stone shrines. The Balinese people are some of the most friendliest and altruistic people on this planet. Indonesian food—if you’re a fan of spice—gets high marks.

Reputable hotel groups have set up camp here due to the unforgettable, commanding landscape and influx of starry-eyed visitors. There’s so much to see in Bali—the size of Singapore with a population of five million—that the average time spent here (10 days) may not be enough. With that said, many visit and actually never leave, evident with the wealth of ex-pats drawn to the people, food and customs—and the fact it’s inexpensive to live there.

From the cultural point of Ubud to the sublime coast of Nusa Dua, each of Bali’s 8 regencies (some would equate to neighborhoods in a city) are unique, impressing those who like diversity with their one-stop destinations. Ultimately, Bali is hedonism, a place of soul-searching and finding it, whether with a romantic partner or yourself and no one will argue that’s the real Bali. Here’s our gay travel guide to Bali based on popular regions.

Ultimate Gay Travel Guide to Bali

While the island is sprawling with endless areas of interest, some are better equipped for tourism, one of which is Seminyak, the most visited regency in Bali, and with good reason. It serves as a hub of terrific hotels and villas, local boutique designer shops, miles of beach and easy access from the airport (about fifteen minutes). But don’t expect glam. The narrow streets are a traffic nightmare, cramped with speedy motorbikes and wandering dogs almost 24-7 and the beaches are trashy (and I mean this literally regarding the floating debris, especially at night).

Even walking along the street, the curbs and sidewalks are littered with flower offerings, small boxes or “boats” typically made from coconut leaves and filled with flower petals and the humidity tends to capture the days-old garbage. In fact, on my first outing, it felt as if there was a huge festival the night before and nobody bothered to clean up. It turns out, well, that’s how the streets look every day! Nevertheless, Seminyak does harbor some of the island’s best sunsets, hotels keep their beachfront tidy and the camp-fed “gay” street is novelty alone.

+ Looking forward to dinner at the delicious Sarong tomorrow evening. One of my favs. #Bali #permissionistriumph #Sarong pic.twitter.com/yPymzNlDI3 — Adriano Di Prato (@AdrianoDiPrato) January 15, 2019

Speaking of gays, they come to Seminyak in droves. You’ll find a healthy variety at Café Bali , a restaurant that looks like a colonial doll house of sorts with a large outdoor deck, or at Sarong , a trendy restaurant offering a modern approach to street food. It was nice to find Seminyak offered some cosmopolitan flair. I was impressed with the diverse clientele: I heard conversations in German, Japanese and the heaviest of accents (from Australia to the deep south of the states!) proved Bali is on the international bucket list.

In Seminyak, there’s a gay “beach” though it’s reputation of cruising precedes it (which is great if that’s how you roll!). You’re better off at Ku De Ta , a casual hangout favored by both hetero and homo alike, known for beachfront cabanas, a South Beach-style scene with lounge grooves and killer cocktails to boot. A newer option is Potato Head, just down the road, similar atmosphere, same concept. Both bars truly took me from the bustling streets to melt away with a stiff drink.

Legian is a suburban 7 beach area on the west coast of Bali just north of Kuta & south of Seminyak the area between Melasti & Dhyana Pura. pic.twitter.com/BFtP8f8eBx — THE HAVEN Seminyak (@thehavenbali) March 6, 2017

The strongest indication Seminyak lures the LGBT community is the fact it’s the only place with gay nightlife in Bali. You’ll find the motherload on Dhyana Pura, a tiny street home to a string of small gay bars. Mixwell is the preferred watering hole as the staff is friendliest and the DJ seems to know what the crowd wants. My idea to rise early for the sunset was foiled when the bar really didn’t pick up until after midnight. Every fifteen minutes, a drag queen commanded the audience with American pop songs and local go-go boys strut on the bar in the skimpiest and campiest of outfits. So wrong it was just right. What makes this strip exciting is that the streetfront bars allow the patrons to flood out into the street, particularly on the weekends: tourists (both gay and straight) pause to socialize, flirt and get a nice dose of the free shows at the bars.

There’s no shortage of pampering hotels and villas in Seminyak and you’ll find a diverse range of accommodations, whether it’s the old-school queen of luxury at Legian or the new W Bali.

Physically at home, mentally poolside at @WBali . #WEscapes #Daydreaming pic.twitter.com/hnaOK7ESNS — W Hotels (@WHotels) July 14, 2020

W managed to muscle its way onto the beach, bringing its signature amenities and design gays live for. The design is a contemporary approach to traditional Balinese, and it’s eye candy with fun amenities (oxygen-filled lounge, three-story beach bar).

I wanted to go medium local and stayed at Anantara Resort & Spa , a Thai brand that opened on the beach about a decade ago. The comfortably chic boutique is a three-minute walk to the gay strip so my stumbling walks home were short and sweet without having to hop on the back of someone’s moped for chump change.

Most of the 60 suites have fantastic ocean views but that was the least of my concerns considering the delightful amenities all the suites are equipped with, including a large outdoor veranda with private jacuzzi tub, large shower with various pressure settings, separate vanity with ample closet space and the cuteness of the welcome fruit inside a large birdcage. We can’t not include this hotel in our gay travel guide to Bali.

Jimbaran Bay

Jimbaran Bay, Pantai Nelayan Tersembunyi Di Bali Selatan https://t.co/iWT6rIhhEB #travelblog pic.twitter.com/xxSWT4Z0kf — Fahmi (@catperku) June 21, 2020

Romance is completely amped up at Jimbaran Bay on the southern peninsula, only a twenty-minute drive from Seminyak. While it shares the same coast, I found the beaches substantially nicer here, and a pace that truly captured “island time.” The shore hosts a number of seafood restaurants, trademark “beds on the beach” and unforgettable sunsets. In fact, these are the three main highlights of the area, considering a shortage of healers, nightlife, rice paddies, jungle treks and money boys. It’s a compact paradise luring foodies to the bustling morning fish markets and surfers to the wealth of great waves, giving a more “retro” feel to the Balinese coast.

The scent of fresh seafood lingers in the salt-stung air, and the perpetual sound of crashing waves creates Zen. Even the two luxury resorts here are attractions in themselves, for both locals and visitors alike. It was the best detox from Seminyak, and I finally had time to crack open my beach book, Robinson Crusoe.

If you’re looking for sprawling and fab, Ayana Resort and Spa is a 200-acre, 368-room property that’s so tricked-out, you don’t have to leave the premises and, quite frankly, most guests don’t. I felt like a passing traveler in a self-contained village.

Do you know that sleep is key for overall health and wellbeing? That is why our ultra luxurious villas are set on the scenic Jimbaran Bay cliffs amongst the lush tropical gardens, and offer world-class facilities and uncompromised privacy. #AYANAresort #Bali pic.twitter.com/hXTR5238tZ — AYANA Hotels (@AyanaResort) April 6, 2020

There are five pools (both fresh- and salt-water), 12 restaurants and lounges, two glass-wedding chapels, a sliver of private beach, tucked away hales , award-winning, 236,000-square-foot spa (that includes a truly pampering, 12-course aquatherapy circuit) and a sports facility that includes fitness center, jogging path, yoga pavilion, tennis courts and 18-hole golf putting course.

If you think that’s enough to keep you busy, they throw in surprises. For instance, during my stay, guest yogi Jacqui Cooper, a medal-winning aerial skiing Olympian and certified instructor, taught a free outdoor class to fifty guests.

To really do Ayana right, splurge on one of the 78 free-standing, cliff-top villas . They start at 3,225 square-feet and include a 24-hour butler (you’re given a cell should you need anything), private infinity-edge plunge pool, sunbeds and gazebos and your own waterfall garden. If that’s not privileged enough, there’s a separate room entirely for the soaking bathtub, about the same size of the living area. I felt quite liliputian in such quarters but I also felt rightfully like a prince in my own kingdom.

Formerly the Ritz Carlton, the property became Ayana two years ago and repeat visitors will notice the sheer awesomeness of the year-old Rock Bar. An open-top bar—with cocktails created by Michelin-star F&B executive Marc Dobbels—is set on a cliff outcrop where crashing waves, 360-degree views and sublime sunset (happy hour is popular here) create an atmosphere challenging to duplicate. Don’t even get me started on the stargazing. It’s one of the main reasons we actually wrote this gay travel guide to Bali… it must have been in the stars!

The 147 villas at Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay are modeled after typical Balinese homes (of the swankier variety), completely rustic with private plunge pools and views of the Bay. The resort is intimate and simple, understated elegance with a signature Beds on the Beach so fine-toothed you’ll think it was specially crafted for you. It includes pampering hale on the coast, a terrific degustation menu under the stars while torch-baring canoes roll out in the ocean before you.

Sonho de hoje: começar o dia com esse café da manhã em uma da villas privativas do @FSBali , em Jimbaran Bay. ?: alexpreview (via IG) https://t.co/Fd6G3RMJtq #DreamWithFS #Indonesia pic.twitter.com/X46koUTfL8 — Four Seasons Brasil (@FourSeasonsBR) July 31, 2020

If you want to feel the “old-school” atmosphere of Bali, head to Balangan Beach , a hedonistic strip of sandy beach and home to surfer competitions, $20-a-room hotels on stilts and not much more. It’s wildly idyllic and bare-boned, with little shading so don’t forget your sunscreen. Visit Aluwatu, home of one of Bali’s biggest and most important shrines, and you’ll experience traditional choreographed dances at sunset. Like to ride waves? The breaks here have been named one of the best surfing spots in the world, so we just have to include it in our gay guide to Bali.

The Ubud Rice fields are just so peaceful and an amazing place to just sit reflect and meditate ??‍♂️ — marcusmeetsworld via IG // Fam, what are some of your self-care practices during this pandemic? Let us know in the comments. #travelnoire #stayhome pic.twitter.com/zg94v6CH6z — Travel Noire (@TravelNoire) April 28, 2020

Locals, including ex-pats, won’t exactly admit Eat, Pray, Love ruined Ubud but their eyes will tell a different story. The location for the blockbuster film is more overrun with tourists, which means longer lines at favorite haunts, cheesy tours and thrice as many roaring motorbikes. If there’s one redemptive note to the instant tourism boom in the small, inland village high in the foothills is that tourists truly fall in love with Ubud, and the small town itself hasn’t changed, which is why we need to include it in our gay guide to Bali.

Ubud is the heart and cultural pulse of Bali. There’s something so magical here, you’re bound to feel a wonderful sensation right away. It’s traditionally been known to inspire and incite artists, writers, hippies, the spiritual variety and, more recently, me. Retreats and ancient temples abound in unspoiled rain forestry. Winding roads are lined with decades-old art studios and old-school vendors while large, stringy root hang from leafy trees, creating a setting only found in fables.

So we tried Babi Guling at Ibu Oka (Ubud) because of an episode in Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. It really tastes good ? pic.twitter.com/2tIHC818y7 — Nirvana in Fire (@LinShu__) September 25, 2019

Most villas and resorts perch along the Ayung River, harboring views into the jungle, of rice terraces and gorges. 14th century temples in the Sacred Monkey Forest are home to hundreds of free-roaming, Balinese Macaques monkeys, known to be ubersacred (both the monkeys and the temple) in this neck of the woods. And culinary treats of all kinds—fresh juices, family-run Indonesian restaurants, outdoor BBQ and even suckling pig—make Ubud a fascinating foodie destination. Make a bee-line to Ibu Oka , which the late Anthony Bourdain declared his favorite suckling pig place ever. Get there early as seats fill up fast. Even at 11 am, I stood in line, waiting to work on my appetite on crispy pork skin and savory meat.

Mozaic marches to a more fine-dining beat. It’s touted as the best restaurant in Ubud, heck even all of Bali, thanks to chef Chris Salans (graduate of French Laundry), who opened ten years ago. Mozaic features a six-course tasting menu in a stylish, outdoor venue in the jungle.

A sunset pic we took @ the #Amandari resort, where we stayed for a few days last time in #Bali . Review: https://t.co/mgc0PEFmI9 @Amanresorts pic.twitter.com/EnXf7gRE2B — TravelPlusStyle.com (@TravelPStyle) January 25, 2017

If you come to Ubud and see a temple, ride a motorbike, chill in a resort’s infinity pool and indulge in a streetside $5 massage then you haven’t truly experienced Ubud. To fully understand the culture, one must immerse himself by participating in pastimes, activities and attractions most hotels offer.

The chic, 30-suites Amandari was able to arrange a traditional blessing ceremony with a local priest for me. This ceremony is generally offered during an important day (birthday or wedding), a Karma cleansing, if you will, and was performed just outside Amandari’s main entrance. After the priest sang a variety of prayers, I was blessed by him, sprinkled with water and dry rice, and finally I made all sorts of offerings ( canag ) to the God, and was able to ask for wishes. One wish I should have made was to stop the rain, which comes every day in rainy season due to its location, but the random showers never last a handful of hours.

The 60-room Four Seasons Sayan , where Julia Roberts stayed during filming, is at the base of the river. The design of the resort is quite commanding (note the signature, disc-shaped lily pond roof) and botany lovers will appreciate the well-kept landscape chockfull of stag-horn ferns, thumbergia vines, herb and gardens and Banyan trees. Just imagine the invigorating, floral scents.

eat pray love ⭐⭐ a primeira hora é tão chata que quase desisti, a segunda melhora um pouco mas nada espetacular. o que vale a pena é a elizabeth andando de bicicleta, comendo pizza e falando francês. pic.twitter.com/fcHTEpGI6F — laura ミ☆ (@latinsroses) December 24, 2020

The resort pays tribute to the Balinese farmer by offering “Live Like a Local” excursion. After an hour-long, scenic trek in the jungle and village, I had breakfast in a bale by a sprawling rice paddy then planted some of my own. Don’t worry, it gets better. After a few hours of dirtying hands, I was whisked away to the spa villa to experience batukali (stone bathing ritual), which comprises a stone scrub and massage. It’s perhaps more posh than the way of the traditional farmer but thematic nonetheless. This was followed by a riverfront, nasi campur (mixed rice) lunch in a private bale and included a gorgeous scrapbook memento with nasi campur recipes and photos of the day’s journey.

COMO Shambala #Bali , adds a whole new dimension of opulence to your standard wellness retreat. http://t.co/PSEvD3BDHY pic.twitter.com/K2BrvTPjJj — Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia (@TravLeisureAsia) May 14, 2014

Well off the beaten-path is COMO Shambhala Estate just on the outskirts of Ubud, reached by one road (as in, a one-way road shared both directions). The remote location reflects its level of exclusivity, high in the mountains, about 3,400 feet, right on the edge of a cliff that drops down to Ayung river. It’s home to a natural sacred spring bursting with holy water, creating a handful of pools for natural dipping (ancient texts indicate this is one of seven springs women have to visit before getting married).

There’s only 30 villas, most of which are always booked, thanks to its rustic-chic design (stone walls, thatch roofs, green grounds and most of the villas face a whole hillside of terraced rice paddies), personal butler attendant and holistic program that includes unlimited yoga and pilates classes from some of the world’s top experts. COMO is regarded as the best of the best for the best, as visitors have included Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Edward Norton. Don’t expect tacky guest speakers and group meditations as this is not that sort of retreat; the spirituality comes from within and it’s one of the reasons we need to include in our ultimate gay guide to Bali.

A perfect place to stay at East Bali is Amankila. pic.twitter.com/tO6o9xvwhj — P O S I T I V I T Y (@RightDisplay) October 22, 2020

Visit the Karangasem regency on the east coast, and you’ll still see Bali pre-tourism boom. It’s chockfull of caged-up, cock-fighting roosters, rice fields, home-cum-“street”-front shops and arguably the most smiles in the entire archipelago. Karangasem is as old-school as Bali gets, and we’re talking a thousand years. In fact, the small village of Tenganan was the first to be settled in the 11th century and still retains traditions and customs that haven’t changed from the get-go.

Those who live in the village (about 200 families) never leave, and if they marry someone outside their ring, they must move out. Tenganan is also home to ecat, a type of tapestry that’s hand-woven and takes up to two years to make. This is the village that originally gave birth to ecat and is one of few places where production exists… and out of weavers’ shops for that matter. The art form is so intricate and difficult that no one has learned how to duplicate it correctly. Being that Tenganan was the first settlement in Bali, it’s also home to some of the oldest temples and shrines.

Winding pathways lead to secluded stilted suites at #Amankila , where the air is veiled with the tropical scent of frangipani and the magnificent three-tier infinity pool appears to tumble down to black sand beach below. https://t.co/I6Wh956tue pic.twitter.com/uvtLpyRwVa — Aman (@Amanresorts) October 29, 2020

Tradition lingers outside the village. I was fortunate to visit Bali during Usabha Ketiga—meaning “the rituals of the third month” according to the Balinese calendar—where a celebration of dancing, offerings and drinking took place on the side of the street—literally. Cars and motorbikes actually dodged the festival on the edge of the street, the same exact spot where the festival had taken place for centuries, and the road was just an impediment. Visiting shrines and temples are de riguer for locals but tourists should plan to visit one during a celebration, which is much more moving.

A charming, oceanside resort town exists but affluent travelers will prefer the 30-year old Amankila resort. The 34 stilted, thatch-roof, free-standing suites (200 square feet) are bridged by raised walkways, completely removed in its own oasis. Aman groupies may recognize the resort by its signature, three-tiered, infinity swimming pool set into the cliff, facing the sea and flowing into the other down a stepped gradient, similar to terraced rice paddies.

#Amankila ’s 3-tier infinity pool tumbles down to the beach below, as views across the Lombok Strait disappear beyond the horizon. Immersed in the beauty of these natural surroundings, Balinese dishes are served, created from locally sourced ingredients. https://t.co/I6Wh956tue pic.twitter.com/l5qW6AGXo9 — Aman (@Amanresorts) November 21, 2020

The streamlined staff enhance the atmosphere while the design is noteworthy in itself: tall, stone walls covered with fern and moss, angular structures and thoughtful composition, commanding views anywhere you stand, private cabanas (or bales ) throughout the property. At the base of the cliff on which the resort rests is the Beach Club where myriad watersports are offered as well as another pool at a whopping 135 feet. After an exhausting, eight-mile bike ride throughout the regency (mountain bikes provided by the resort), there really wasn’t a better place to come back to than Amankila. Under the band of stars (the light pollution is low, thus constellations wildly pop from the sky), it’s an unrivaled experience, and one of the reasons we need to include in our gay guide to Bali.

What’s not to love @ConradBali with a lagoon access room, blue skies, giant swimming pools, excellent service, delicious food and hot weather. Will certainly be switching off for the next few days #hothotel #conrad #bali pic.twitter.com/8Mn6yDqjPE — TheDesignAir (@thedesignair) September 22, 2019

If for some unearthly reason you have to get away from the belly of Bali, head to Nusa Dua, a self-contained, gated resort complex on the east side of the island. In all fairness, Nusa Dua was conceived in the late seventies as the first development specifically designed for tourism—it’s this region that put Bali on the map internationally!

Also, the best beaches of Bali are arguably here, should you need winning snapshots for your Instagram.

Like to hang at @HiltonHotels ? These are the 52 best, including the Conrad Bali: https://t.co/ceZGanVcTL pic.twitter.com/UqGMOYXIhq — ForbesLife (@ForbesLife) August 12, 2019

Resorts (most fit for large conventions or weddings) line the sandy coast, all considered high end. There’s also a small shopping center—Bali Connections—and a golf course. The best beach is probably at the base of St Regis, open only three years and still feeling quite new. While one would gripe that there’s no Balinese culture found within the property, most won’t turn down the chic pool with swim-up bar, 24-hour butler service and indulgent Remede Spa. Grand Hyatt recently went through a major renovation and Amanusa is still a luxury hotel junkie’s poison. Further up the coast, just on the border, is Conrad Bali , which has the biggest pools in all of Bali (the lagoon pool is 40,000 square feet).

The new Conrad Suites may be underwhelming with design but it’s the perks—private 2,000-square-foot pool, fee-free cabanas, free laundry and dry cleaning and 15% percent off all F&B—that matter.

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20 Easy Ways To Meet People In Bali As A Solo Traveller

Victoria Heinz

• April 4, 2023

Are you on a solo trip to Bali and have no idea how to meet new people and make friends?

The good news is, you couldn’t have come to a better place to find a fun and supportive community of travellers and digital nomads. I’ve lived in Bali for several years now, and before that, I used to come here all the time as a solo traveller. Even now, I still spend a lot of time meeting new people and even host my own meetups for Bali residents. If you’re hoping to find some new friends, I’ve got you covered.

There are more ways to meet people in Bali than to stay in a hostel and join Facebook groups. My list of 20 ways to make friends on the Island of the Gods has plenty of inspiration for you, so you can make your trip unforgettable.

Boasting stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, Bali is the perfect place for solo travellers looking for adventure. Being away from home can be quite daunting at first, but luckily there are plenty of ways to connect with like-minded people in the area.

So whether you’re looking for someone to explore with or just hoping to make some new friends while travelling abroad, these 17 easy tips on how to meet people in Bali as a solo traveller will set you up right. From joining local groups and getting involved in bar crawls to taking surfing lessons or signing up for yoga classes – let’s take a look at your options!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep Guide Your Travel free and provide high-quality content for you. Please read the full disclaimer for more information.

How to find friends in Bali’s digital nomad and expat community

Bali is known for its large community of expats and digital nomads who make the island their permanent or semi-permanent home. You’ll soon realise that finding friends in Bali is easy, what’s difficult is making lasting connections with those who actually stay here long-term. If you’re just a traveller passing through or hoping to stay in Bali for a few months, you’ll find plenty of friends using the tips below.

But for more permanent friendships, you might want to keep an eye out for events meant specifically for expats living on the island. There are Facebook groups you can join, and you can keep an eye out for meetups. Try to make friends with people who have businesses or properties in Bali, or even family, which means they’re more likely to stay for longer.

Don’t forget to check out our favourite Instagram captions about solo travel .

Best ways to make friends and meet people as a solo traveller in Bali

After finding some of my best friends through travelling, I’ve collected the best ways to meet people in Bali, whether you’ll stay in touch for years or just enjoy a fun few days together.

1. Join a yoga retreat and meet people with similar interests

Looking to connect with like-minded people while seeking inner peace and physical well-being? Look no further than a yoga retreat! Not only will you delve deeper into your practice and learn new techniques, but you’ll also meet fellow yogis who share your love for the practice. With activities like hiking, meditation, and even beachfront yoga sessions, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to bond with your new friends. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, a yoga retreat is the perfect way to deepen your practice and make lasting connections. So roll out your mat, take a deep breath, and get ready to meditate your way to a rejuvenating and rewarding experience.

I’d highly recommend joining a multi-day yoga retreat in Bali, but if you’re not ready to commit to a longer stay just yet, why not try a single class first? This yoga class also includes a food tour of Ubud, and I met fantastic people along the way, so it’s a top choice for solo travellers.

2. Join a group trip around Bali to meet people

Joining a multi-day group tour is the easiest way to find friends in Bali. If you’re anxious to travel solo and want a guarantee that you won’t struggle to meet people, this is the best recommendation I can give you. Plus, since South East Asia is a relatively affordable place for travelling, even multi-day group trips aren’t as expensive as you might expect.

I’ve experienced it firsthand, and it was an unforgettable adventure full of fun and laughter. Not only did I make lifelong connections with other travellers, but I also got to explore parts of this beautiful country that I would never have seen otherwise. From visiting iconic Balinese temples to white water rafting through the jungle, there was always something new and exciting around every corner. So if you’re looking for a unique way to make friends and have an adventure of a lifetime, then don’t hesitate – join a group tour today !

The best part? You can book it with one click and then look forward to your trip. No need for tedious planning and worrying about ending up alone in a cheap hostel somewhere.

If you want to find friends during your time in Bali, the best multi-day group tour by far is the 12-day trip by One Life Adventures . You’ll be joined by 20 other travellers aged 18 to 39 and explore the Island of the Gods together. In my experience, this is the perfect group size since you’ll have the chance to get to know everyone, but there will still be enough people so that you can be sure you’ll click with someone. After our tour, some of us even decided to stay in Bali together a bit longer, and we made amazing friendships. Plus, the price is unbeatable, especially if you’ve done your research on how much you’ll actually spend on a trip to Bali if you organise it yourself. I couldn’t recommend this tour more.

3. Try a local cooking class and learn more about the Balinese cuisine

Nothing brings people together as food does, and Bali has some of the best local cuisine in the world. It’s common for travellers to join a cooking class where you’ll begin the day at a local market shopping for ingredients before cooking different local dishes together in a big group. In my experience, the more collaborative and interactive an activity is, the easier it is to make friends. Not only will you learn valuable culinary skills, but you’ll also have the opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals who share your passion for food and travel. Plus, what better way to immerse yourself in the local culture than through their food? So put on your apron, grab a spatula, and get ready to cook up some amazing new friendships while expanding your culinary repertoire in beautiful Bali.

Click here to check out my favourite cooking class in Bali , which takes place in Ubud. The groups are small, and you cook together in a local family’s home, so it’s a very fun and authentic experience.

Save time when planning a trip to Bali ➼ 8€ airport pickup? Klook ➼ Best travel insurance? SafetyWing ➼ Accommodation? Agoda or Booking.com ➼ ATM to get cash out for free? Maybank ➼ Best SIM card? Telkomsel ➼ Best place to book flights? Skyscanner

4. Take a surfing lesson – the ocean is full of potential friends!

Are you ready to catch some waves in Bali, meet people and make new friends? It’s time to take a surfing lesson! The ocean is teeming with potential buddies that you just need to chat up. With a board under your feet and the rush of the salty sea air in your face, you’ll quickly see why surfing is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life. Not only will you learn the basics of surfing, but you’ll also get the chance to meet fellow adventurers who share your love for the water.

The surfing community sticks together, especially in Bali. Even if you book a private lesson , the instructor will be able to introduce you to other students, and you’ll dive into the surf community in no time. Or, join a group lesson, which has the added benefit of being cheaper.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your wetsuit and get ready to discover a whole new world of fun and friendship!

The very first surf lesson I ever had was with 27 Surf in Kuta , and I couldn’t have been happier. They’re super affordable and very beginner-oriented. I’ve also joined this group surf lesson in Legian and can highly recommend them if you’re staying a bit further up the coast.

5. Join a group day-trip tour

Day trips are a must-do in Bali, and the options for different types of tours you can book are enormous. They usually consist of groups of five to 25 people, and you’ll be taken to popular hotspots around the island that might be difficult to reach as a solo traveller. These include, for example, Nusa Penida , Nusa Lembongan , Uluwatu , Ubud or the north of Bali . You’ll be picked up from your hotel in the morning and returned in the evening, so there’s nothing between you and meeting new friends other than a fun day packed with activities.

This Nusa Penida day trip tour really stood out to me, especially if you only have a short time in Bali. The group I joined was fun, and you’ll get to see all the hotspots like Kelingking Beach , Diamond Beach , the Rumah Pohon Treehouse and more.

6. Spend the evening at a chess bar

Bali’s most popular chess bar is the perfect place for solo travellers looking to make new friends while enjoying a game of chess. Located in the bustling Canggu neighbourhood, this vibrant bar has become a popular hangout spot for both locals and tourists alike. Here, you can challenge yourself against other players of varying skill levels or just relax with a cold beer and watch the competition. As you play, you’ll be able to connect with people from all walks of life, making it an ideal place to find new friends! So why not join the chess bar crowd today? Everyone’s game for a good time.

7. Head to one of Bali’s many coworking spots and connect with digital nomads

Bali is not just a place to soak up the sun and enjoy the waves. It also has a bustling community of digital nomads looking for a place to work and network. Enter the world of coworking spaces where freelancers, entrepreneurs and remote workers gather to connect and collaborate. These spaces offer a range of amenities, from high-speed internet, private meeting rooms and even workout classes. And if you’re in Bali for an extended period, why not pop in and connect with other like-minded individuals? Who knows, you might just find your next business partner or even make new friends. So grab a coffee, pull up a seat and join the community.

My top choices for coworking spaces which regularly host events are Outpost, Tropical Nomad, and Beluna. Keep in mind that Dojo Coliving in Bali is permanently closed.

8. Join a hike to Mount Batur at sunrise

Mount Batur is one of Bali’s most iconic attractions, and most people hike up to this beautiful volcano at sunrise. Going on such an unusual and adventurous excursion really bonds people together, so if you join a group tour, you’re almost guaranteed to make friends. Most groups go to breakfast together or grab some coffee afterwards, so you’ll be in great company.

I’ve had great experiences with this Mount Batur sunrise hike tour , although I’ve only tried the private option, not the group trip. Keep in mind that you need a tour guide to see Mount Batur, it’s not permitted for tourists to hike up alone.

9. Check out one of Bali’s many beach bars for sunset drinks and conversations

Bali is well-known for its spectacular sunsets, and what better way to enjoy them than with a refreshing drink in hand at one of the many beach bars dotted around the island? Imagine sinking back into a beanbag, feeling the sand between your toes, and watching the sky turn shades of red and orange as the sun dips below the horizon. The walk along the beach from Seminyak to Canggu is also highly recommended. But even if you’re travelling alone, you shouldn’t be shy and end up skipping the beach bars. Strike up a conversation with fellow travellers or the friendly locals, and let the good times roll. You have nothing to lose, and you’ll find that there are always plenty of others sitting alone. If you want to meet people in Bali, you need a bit of courage sometimes.

10. Join meetup groups on Facebook or Whatsapp to meet other solo travellers in Bali

Are you a solo traveller looking to make some new friends during your Bali adventure? Say no more! The solution lies in joining meetup groups on either Facebook or WhatsApp. Not only will you have the opportunity to meet other travellers, but you’ll also get to explore hidden gems on the island with like-minded individuals. From surfing and hiking to exploring local markets and enjoying traditional cuisine, the possibilities are endless. So why not add some fun and adventure to your Bali experience and join a meetup group today? Who knows, you may find a lifelong travel buddy or two!

Best meetup groups in Bali

Check out these meetup groups to find friends or a travel buddy for Bali.

• Bali for Travelers
• Bali Travel Forum
• Bali Tourist Information
• Canggu Community Bali
• Bali Travel
• Girls in Bali
• Bali Community
• Travelling in Bali

11. Try Nomeo

Are you a traveller or a digital nomad in Bali? Look no further than Nomeo ! This platform is specifically designed for individuals like you to connect and explore together. With Nomeo, you can attend meetups hosted by other members or even create your own event to bring people together. Whether you’re searching for a new adventure or just looking to make some new friends, Nomeo has got you covered. So why not join this exciting community and start your journey to meet new people and experience all that Bali has to offer? The possibilities are endless with Nomeo meetups!

Nomeo is the leading platform when it comes to meetups in Bali. Even if you’re only on the island for a short time, make sure to sign up (it’s free), join their Whatsapp groups and make use of their many meetups. You can even host your own! The community is incredible, and the site has so many useful features.

12. Eat at Sa’Mesa – come as strangers and leave as friends

Looking for a unique dining experience that is sure to leave you feeling like part of the family? Look no further than Sa’Mesa, a dining restaurant in Seminyak and Canggu that prides itself on its motto of “come as strangers, leave as friends”. Here, you’ll be treated to a family-style authentic Italian meal that includes over 18 different dishes, each one more delicious than the last. And for those looking to add a little extra kick to their evening, there’s free-flow limoncello to sample as well. So why settle for a boring meal out when you can enjoy a fun and memorable night at Sa’Mesa?

Their unique dining concept ends in everyone dancing on the tables, and the whole idea relies on strangers becoming family. They actively encourage singles to join, it’s not awkward. I’ve been to Sa’Mesa four times now (and I’ve got my next dinner booked already), and every single time I meet someone cool. I don’t like to promise things, but in this case, I can safely guarantee you’ll love it as a solo traveller.

Sa’mesa is not only great to meet new friends but also perfect for a birthday celebration or special occasion. Just make sure to book at least a week or more in advance, this place sells out fast.

13. Stay at a hostel to meet friends in Bali

This is the most obvious way to meet people in Bali, and it always works. Hostels are a fantastic option for budget-minded travellers, but they also offer an unparalleled opportunity to connect with other like-minded adventurers. Whether you’re exploring the island’s stunning beaches, checking out its vibrant nightlife scene, or simply lounging by the pool, a hostel stay is the perfect way to meet new friends from all around the world. So book your bed today and get ready to have the time of your life in Bali!

My favourite social hostels to meet people in Bali

If you’re hoping to find a travel buddy for your time in Bali, check out these hostels where I’ve found incredible friends. If I had to choose one hostel from this list, it would be Tipsy Gypsy in Canggu . This hostel has the perfect size and isn’t too big, so it feels like you’re one big family. I live in Bali now and still come back here all the time. I can promise that you’ll find friends if you stay at this amazing little spot.

If you’re on a budget, you’ll love our guide to saving money in Indonesia and our post on how much money you actually need for a week in Bali.

14. Try group sports or a workout class to meet other travellers in Bali

If you want to stay active and meet friends at the same time, why not try your hand at beach volleyball, padel, tennis or a high-energy workout class like spinning? These activities not only provide a great opportunity to break a sweat but also allow you to socialize with like-minded individuals who share a passion for fitness and adventure. Plus, with Bali’s stunning scenery and beautiful beaches as your backdrop, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable experience. So grab your sunscreen and a towel and get ready to make some new friends while exploring this exciting island destination!

Best ways to meet people in Bali while working out

Here’s a small selection of group workouts and places to meet friends around Bali. I’d especially recommend checking out the Hash House Harriers if you’re not familiar with the concept.

• Beach Volleyball
• Hash House Harriers

15. Try Paint and Sip

If you’re looking for unusual ways to meet people in Bali, you should try the Paint and Sip class at the Creative Art Bar in Seminyak. They have a variety of events every week, but this one is definitely the most fun. You’ll be joined by a diverse group of travellers and expats for an exciting evening of art and wine. There is a drink included in the price for the class, and they’ve got a full bar so you can have the best night with newfound friends. Even if you’re coming here alone, you won’t have trouble finding friends, and the friendly staff and teachers will be ready to show you around.

This class even hosts a drag queen night occasionally, which we couldn’t recommend more. It was one of my favourite evenings I’ve had so far in Bali.

16. Try coliving or a shared villa to meet other travellers

Are you tired of travelling solo and looking for other like-minded individuals? Coliving and shared villas might just be the answer you’ve been searching for! These communal living arrangements have become increasingly popular amongst digital nomads and travellers alike. Not only will you be able to meet people who share your passion for exploring the world, but you’ll also have the opportunity to build lasting connections with those who will be staying in Bali longer. From group dinners to shared experiences, coliving and shared villas provide the ultimate opportunity to make new friends and create unforgettable memories. So why not give it a try? Who knows, you might just end up with a new travel buddy for your next adventure!

This tip is most useful for digital nomads or those who are in Bali for at least a few weeks and we love that villas are generally more social than hotels .

If you’re not quite ready to try coliving, you might enjoy the best coworking spaces in Canggu .

The best coliving spots in Bali

Bali has endless coliving spaces, digital nomad residencies and more, some private and some that are bookable online. Here are some good places to start. You can also check out this list of coworking spaces and their living options , which is even more detailed.

• Tribal Bali
• Matra Coliving
• Outside Coliving

Find shared villas in Bali in these Facebook groups

Finding a room in a shared villa in Bali may take some time, but these groups will help.

• Bali Cheap House and Room Rental
• Cheap Villa Rental in Bali
• Bali Rental Rooms and Villas
• Bali Villa Rental and Sale
• Canggu Housing for Girls
• Ubud Housing for Girls
• Uluwatu Housing for Girls

17. Join a Bahasa Indonesia language class

Even just a few classes of Bahasa Indonesia will help you communicate while you’re in Bali and make some local friends, not just other travellers. Language classes are affordable and fun, especially if you join a group. Expect to pay around IDR 70,000 to IDR 120,000 (~ €4.30 to €7.30) per hour, depending on the group size and level. If you’re around others trying to learn Bahasa Indonesia, you’ll find friends in Bali in no time.

18. Try a pottery class

If you’re overwhelmed at the thought of travelling solo but still want to make the most out of your next adventure, one great way to break the ice is by joining a pottery class in Bali. Not only will you learn something new and get creative, but you can also meet like-minded people who could easily become friends for life. You’ll also be able to take home a beautiful piece of pottery you’ve made yourself and have fond memories of the time spent with your new friends. So why not give it a try? Who knows, you might even find yourself enrolled in pottery classes when you get back home!

This is the best pottery class I’ve been able to find in Bali, and I made some great friends here in the past. There are cheaper options out there, but in my experience, they don’t live up to the quality of this class.

19. Discover Komodo National Park as part of a group

Komodo National Park is an ideal destination for tourists looking to explore the beauty of Indonesia and its unique wildlife. Located a few islands over from Bali, Komodo National Park is home to a variety of species, including the famous Komodo dragon. This park provides visitors with an unforgettable experience as they explore wildlife-filled habitats and stunning beaches.

At the Komodo National Park, there are plenty of activities for tourists to enjoy. From taking a hike and spotting wildlife to snorkelling with colourful fish in crystal-clear waters – there is something for everyone.

The only way to see Komodo is by boat, and there are different types of tours to choose from, some departing from Lombok and others from Labuan Bajo .

Both are good options to meet people, but my secret favourites are the tours from Labuan Bajo because you’ll get to see more of the national park along the way. You can book a day trip, but a liveaboard is the best choice by far and makes more sense when you look at the pricing.

My trips to Komodo are some of my fondest memories, and the people I spent time with on the boat truly made them special. This 3-day-2-night tour has up to 14 people on board and goes to all the best beaches and places to see. I’ve never laughed so much than on this boat, and I will forever recommend it as a must-do if you’re in the area.

20. Volunteer and give back

If you’re looking to volunteer in Bali, there are plenty of activities that will make a meaningful impact. From beach cleanups and picking up plastic along the shoreline to helping out at soup kitchens or sea turtle conservation efforts, you can make a real difference. All it takes is some time, effort and dedication! With the vast array of volunteer opportunities available, you can easily find something that fits your skills and interests. Plus, this is a great way to meet other travellers and even find a travel buddy during your time in Bali. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start making a positive difference in the world, and meet like-minded people while you’re at it.

Some of our favourite organisations to support are:

• Sungai Watch (plastic cleanup)
• Prasad Kitchen
• One Island One Voice (beach cleanups)
• Bali Sea Turtle Society
• Bali Animal Welfare Association (BAWA)
• Bali Wildlife Rescue Centre
• You can also find Nomeo events for beach cleanups occasionally

Note that not all of these organisations have permanent volunteer programs, and the amount of time you need to help out varies from a few hours to a few weeks. Some, like Sungai Watch or Prasad Kitchen, host regular events where people come together to volunteer, which is my favourite way to meet people in Bali.

Note that working (even if it is for free) in Indonesia is not allowed on a tourist visa. You most likely won’t be deported for joining a beach cleanup, but you never know, especially as rules concerning visa violations in Bali continue to tighten. Avoid posting about volunteering on social media, which is often monitored by immigration and get a social/business visa which allows you to volunteer, although you cannot work for money. Contact the organisation directly when in doubt.

Making friends in Bali FAQ

You can find a travel buddy or new friend in Bali through meetups, Facebook groups, social hostels, and group tours.

Westerners flock to Bali because of the high quality of life, beautiful nature, spirituality and friendly culture.

Bali has a large community of expats, and it’s easy to find a community here. Living on the Island of the Gods is amazing, especially if you enjoy beaches and surfing.

You can find a travel buddy in Bali if you stay in a hostel or join a group tour. There are also meetup groups on Facebook and Whatsapp to join.

Before you go…

You’ve got 20 fun ways to meet people in Bali, so let’s get started with actually planning your trip. You absolutely need to read our complete guide on the best time to visit Bali , our Ubud and Uluwatu day trip itineraries, and our secret cheapest airport pickup that no one knows about. Ready to explore the neighbouring islands of Bali? We’ll show you how to swim with green sea turtles in Gili T , the best things to do in Kuta Lombok and how to navigate Kelingking Beach , despite it being so dangerous.

My most important travel tips and resources

Book your flights Skyscanner is the best website for finding cheap flights since it works like a search engine, so you can find the best deals across all airlines. Book hotels and hostels • Booking.com : Best worldwide • Agoda : Best in South East Asia • Hostelworld : Best for hostels Book tours, transport and rental cars • Viator : The best place to book tours, day trips and excursions for all budgets • 12Go : Great for ferries, trains, transfers and buses in South East Asia • Discover Cars : Best deals for rental cars around the word Get travel insurance Every traveller needs travel insurance, and I mean every single one. SafetyWing covers you in case of injury, illness or worse, and they’ve got your back if your bag is stolen, flights are cancelled or in case of a natural disaster. Pay abroad Ask any traveller, Wise is the best choice when it comes to sending money abroad. They’ve always got the best exchange rates, lowest fees, and their visa card is great for getting cash out or paying abroad. Things every traveller needs: ➼ Osprey Farpoint 70 Backpack Detachable daypack, ultra-light, durable and free repairs for life. There’s a reason why so many backpackers have this bag. ➼ Packing Cubes Packing cubes are a gamer changer, keeping your luggage organised and providing tons of extra space. ➼ Power bank There is nothing worse than running out of battery on an overnight bus journey or a long flight. With a power bank, you can charge your electronics on the go and make sure you’re always connected. ➼ Micro-fibre towel These lightweight towels are foldable, fast-drying, and, so useful when you’re travelling. ➼ You can find 15 more things every traveller needs here . Some might be a bit controversial, but I warned you!

Did I miss anything? If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post, please leave a comment below or  contact me .

Welcome to Guide your Travel!

Hi! I’m Victoria, a travel blogger from Germany and the author of Guide your Travel. I write about my favourite destinations in Europe, South East Asia and digital nomad life in Bali.

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Hi, I'm Victoria

Welcome to Guide your Travel – a blog about South East Asia and how to travel on a budget.

I’m a blogger, writer and photographer and love to introduce my favourite destinations to others and encourage them to see the world.

I’m originally from Germany but spent four years living in the UK, quite a bit of time in Spain and Malaysia, and am now travelling full time with a home base in Bali, Indonesia.

Work with me!

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Gay Bali Guide | An LGBTQIA+ Guide To Bali

Do you have a local LGBTQIA+ travel tip that you’d love for us to include in this guide, or maybe you’ve noticed something that’s not quite right?  let us know your thoughts BY CLICKING here !

Selamat datang and w elcome to the stunning island of Bali, Indonesia, where natural beauty abounds and the LGBTQIA+ community is embraced with open arms! Whether you’re looking to explore breathtaking landscapes, indulge in some delish cuisine, or immerse yourself in culture, Bali has something for everyone. This LGBTQIA+ travel guide will lead you through the island’s finest dining options, attractions, and accommodations, ensuring a memorable and inclusive experience.

Bali offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes. Here are three LGBTQIA+ friendly restaurants that are sure to tantalize your palate:

WARUNG ENAK

Located in the heart of Kuta, Warung Enak is a charming eatery that specializes in traditional Indonesian cuisine. Their menu showcases a variety of flavorful dishes, including nasi campur (mixed rice), satay, and gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce). Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, making it a haven for all food enthusiasts.

Address : Jl. Mataram No.30, Kuta, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia More Info : No Website Cost : $$ (affordable)

SWEPT AWAY AT THE SAMAYA

For a truly romantic and exquisite dining experience, Swept Away at The Samaya is an idyllic choice. Nestled alongside the Ayung River, this restaurant offers an extensive menu of international and Indonesian fusion dishes, prepared with the finest ingredients. Indulge in their signature dishes while enjoying the serene ambiance and breathtaking views.

Address : Banjar Baung, Sayan, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia More Info : https://thesamayabali.com/ubud/dining/swept-away Cost : $$$ (upscale)

WARUNG DAYU

Warung Dayu is a vibrant eatery in Seminyak, serving up delectable local cuisine. Don’t miss out on their lively atmosphere, perfect for a nice meal with a group.

Address : Gg. Bima No.17, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia More Info : No website available Cost : $$ (affordable)

Bali Swing offers a thrilling and Instagram-worthy experience for adventure-seeking travellers. Located in Ubud, this attraction allows you to soar above lush green valleys on giant swings, capturing stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply seeking a unique photo opportunity, Bali Swing promises an unforgettable time.

Address : Jl. Dewi Saraswati No. 7, Bongkasa Pertiwi, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia More Info : https://www.baliswing.com/ Cost : $$ (moderate)

SEMINYAK BEACH

For those seeking sun, sand, and relaxation, Seminyak Beach is the place to be. This vibrant coastal stretch offers crystal-clear waters, golden sand, and an array of beach clubs, where you can unwind and enjoy the tropical atmosphere. Whether you’re lounging on a beach chair or catching a breathtaking sunset, Seminyak Beach is a must-visit destination.

Address : Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia More Info: No official website Cost : Free

UBUD PALACE

Immerse yourself in Balinese history and culture by visiting Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung. This historic palace is a cultural hub, featuring traditional Balinese architecture and captivating dance performances. Explore the intricate details of the palace

Address : Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia More Info : No official website Cost : Free to enter, donations appreciated

Batu Belig Beach

Known as the unofficial gay beach, Batu Belig Beach is a good place to visit for LGBTQIA+ travellers. Located near Seminyak, this beach features sun loungers, and food and drink. While there is no longer a gay-owned cafe, it is still a queer area.

Address : Jl. Batu Belig, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia More Info : No official website Cost : Free to enter

When it comes to nightlife in Bali, there are plenty of LGBTQIA+ friendly spots to choose from. Here are two venues that we think you’ll love:

POTATO HEAD BEACH CLUB

Located in the vibrant area of Seminyak, Potato Head Beach Club is a popular LGBTQIA+ friendly beachfront venue that offers a lively atmosphere and breathtaking ocean views. Dance the night away to the tunes of talented DJs, sip delicious cocktails, and enjoy the vibrant ambiance. With regular events and parties, this beach club is a must-visit for a fun-filled night out.

Address : Jalan Petitenget no. 51B, Seminyak, Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, 80361, Indonesia More Inf o: https://seminyak.potatohead.co/ Cost : Prices vary by event

Mixwell is a vibrant gay bar located in the heart of Bali’s gay district in Seminyak. This lively venue welcomes people of all sexual orientations and offers a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Enjoy fabulous drag shows, lively music, and signature cocktails, making Mixwell an unforgettable spot for an exciting night out.

Address : Jl. Camplung Tanduk No. 6, Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia More Info : https://www.instagram.com/mixwellbarbaliofficial/?hl=en Cost : Prices vary by event

When it comes to finding LGBTQIA+ friendly accommodation in Bali, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Here are three options that will make your stay on the island even more memorable:

THE ANVAYA BEACH RESORT BALI

Located in the heart of Kuta, The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali offers luxurious accommodations and a warm, inclusive atmosphere. This beachfront resort features stylish rooms, stunning views, and a range of amenities, including swimming pools and a spa. With its welcoming staff and dedication to inclusivity, The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali ensures a delightful stay for all guests.

Address : Jl. Kartika Plaza, Tuban, Kuta, Bali, Indonesia More Info : https://www.theanvayabali.com/ Cost : Rooms start at $150 per night

THE TRANS RESORT BALI

Situated in Seminyak, The Trans Resort Bali offers a luxurious and LGBTQIA+ friendly stay in Bali. This upscale resort boasts spacious rooms, a stunning infinity pool, a spa, and a variety of dining options. With its commitment to inclusivity, The Trans Resort Bali provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for all guests.

Address : Jl. Sunset Road, Kerobokan, Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia More Info : https://www.transresortbali.com/ Cost : Rooms start at $200 per night

THE SAMAYA UBUD

Nestled in the serene surroundings of Ubud, The Samaya Ubud provides a tranquil and LGBTQIA+ friendly retreat. This luxurious resort offers spacious villas with private pools, lush tropical gardens, and stunning views of the Ayung River. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while enjoying exceptional service and world-class amenities.

Address : Banjar Baung, Desa Sayan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia More Info : https://www.thesamayabali.com/ubud Cost : Villas start at $400 per night

We hope this LGBTQIA+ friendly travel guide to Bali helps you make the most of your visit to this breathtaking island. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, embrace the welcoming atmosphere, and create beautiful memories in this inclusive paradise. Safe travels and enjoy Bali!

Auckland Gay Clubs & Bars | An LGBTQIA+ Guide to Auckland Nightlife

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...And remember queen, always drink responsibly and in moderation, and of course, only if you're of the legal drinking age in your area. If alcohol abuse is something you or someone you care about is struggling with, you can find support here . More of a spring chicken than a seasoned queen, and not old enough to view this one?Don't fret! We've got tons of other super cool queer articles here !

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17 Things To Do In Bali For Couples

Bali is a haven for couples of all ages.

This tropical island is bursting with hundreds of activities available to satisfy every desire – from luxurious pampering to blissful relaxation to cultural experiences and thrills that deliver a heart-pumping adrenaline rush. 

Bali has it all.

If you’re trying to impress your special someone, on your honeymoon or celebrating an anniversary, you’ve made a great choice - the Balinese know how to make visitors feel really special. Their hospitality is second to none.

But where do you start your planning? 

I recently returned to Bali for my 20th visit (wow, that makes me sound old!), and I was inspired to explore parts of the island I had not seen before, as well as revisit old favourites. So, I’ve put together the best popular and up-and-coming activities and attractions in Bali for couples, as well as a list of recommended hotels for couples.

Now you’ve got everything you need for a magical trip to Bali.

Bali tip: If you’re staying in a 4 or 5 star resort and celebrating a special occasion, mention that during your reservation, and they may organise something special for you, like flower petals on your bed or bathtub upon arrival. ;-)

Travel tip: When you're ready to book romantic activities in Bali, check out Klook which has over 600 options in Bali alone. I used them quite a few times on my most recent trip, and included direct booking links in this article to make your life easier.

1. Waterbom Bali

Regardless, if you prefer relaxation or excitement, Waterbom is a fun day out. Float along the relaxing Lazy River together in a double tube, or sip a fresh coconut in one of the swim-up bars. If your budget allows, splash out with a romantic private gazebo to make your day extra special. Scream with each other (in a good way) as you plummet down a world-class waterslide. The Constrictor and Boomerang slides support double tubes to share the thrill with your special someone.

Enjoy a delicious lunch together at one of the many restaurants offering a huge range of reasonably-priced delicious dishes, including Indonesian, Japanese, Middle Eastern, Italian, Mexican, Caribbean, burgers and more.

New: Oasis Gardens is a brand-new area that soft-launched on 1 August 2023. It includes 4 new slides, a lagoon pool, a swim-up bar, a restaurant and luxurious gazebos.

Get your discounted tickets online .

2. Couples Massage

When it comes to massage, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Bali, from cheap streetside to ultra-luxurious 5-star spas. Skilled traditional Balinese massage therapists choreograph a dance of soothing strokes to banish stress and tension, leaving you both floating in a cloud of bliss. It's not just about the knots in your back, it's about untangling the knots in your soul.

Here are recommended options in: Jimbaran , Tuban , Kuta , Seminyak , Canggu , and Ubud .

3. Balinese Cooking Class

Get hands-on with Balinese cuisine and learn a few traditional recipes using local ingredients. Imagine a traditional Balinese kitchen, the two of you side by side, armed with mortar and pestle, concocting fragrant curries and sizzling satays under the guidance of a local culinary wizard. It's not just about learning to whip up delicious dishes; it's about creating memories spicier than a chili pepper.

Make your discounted class booking online (Ubud).

4. Ku De Ta – Chill at a Beach Club

This just might be the highlight of your romantic trip to Bali. Splash out and book a spacious poolside daybed (minimum spend applied for daybeds, which varies by date). The minimum spend might seem high at first, but the food quality is world-class, which makes this luxurious experience completely worthwhile. Executive Chef, Jeremy Hunt, brings together flavour combinations you won’t find anywhere else in Bali. There are so many creative, delicious menu items, and everything I tried was spectacular.

To top it all off, the carefully curated Ibiza-inspired music is perfectly paired with the views and time of day – starting off chilled in the afternoon and dialling up the BPM at sunset. Their own globally syndicated radio program ran from 2007-2022. You can listen online to past episodes .

Ku De Ta is an institution that opened back in 2000, when Seminyak was largely covered in rice paddies. Ku De Ta was one of the first major beach clubs in Bali, and set a high standard for other clubs that came afterwards, like Finns , Potato Head and Atlas .

Note: They don’t allow the use of professional cameras, so my pics were taken with my phone (sorry!). Keep in mind that a dress code applies with different rules after 6pm (details on their website).

Make a daybed booking on their official website .

5. Sunset Dinner at Jimbaran Beach

You can’t come to Bali without experiencing a romantic sunset dinner on Jimbaran Beach. This stretch of golden sand is known for low-cost, high-quality seafood, with dozens of beachfront restaurants to choose from. If you’re a veg-head like me, don’t worry, there are some vegan-friendly options available, like fried rice and noodles, upon request.

Tip: Arrive 1 hour before sunset to ensure you can enjoy the full glory of golden hour as the sky lights up every shade of amber and pink you can imagine.

I recommend Kampoeng Seafood at the north end of the beach, or Pandan Sari at the south end ( book online in advance to secure a table, especially during high season).

6. Romantic Dinner at The Café, Mulia Resort

Don’t let the understated name fool you… This buffet is amongst the best in the world, with cuisines from all over the globe. If food is the way to your heart, then you’ll be in heaven. If you’re celebrating a special occasion like a birthday, discretely let your waiter know when you arrive, and they’ll arrange something special for you and your loved one.

Make a table booking on their official website .

7. Instagram Tour

Capture amazing photos with your loved one in some of Bali’s most scenic and romantic locations: Temple Of Penataran Agung Lempuyang (Gateway to Heaven), Tirta Gangga (water gardens), and Tukad Cepung Waterfall.

Make your discounted tour booking online .

8. Create Custom Jewellery

Bali is home to hundreds of gold and silver artisan shops, and entire villages are dedicated to the craft. You can even do a fun Balinese jewellery-making workshop to create your own one-of-a-kind ring, earring or pendant.

Make your discounted workshop booking online .

9. ATV Ride Through Rice Fields

Get your adrenaline pumping with a cosy tandem ATV quad bike tour along bright-green rice fields, through shallow rivers and around a submerged obstacle course. This tour is not for the faint-hearted.

10. Walk through Marigold Fields

If you’ve got your own car, drive out to this quiet corner of East Bali where rows upon rows of gorgeous Marigold flowers are grown for ceremonial purposes. These make a gorgeous backdrop for a romantic photo. Please be sure to respect the landowners and don’t damage the flowers.

Get directions .

11. Floating Breakfast

Want to really impress your loved one? Imagine lounging in a private pool, the morning sun kissing your skin, and a delectable spread of breakfast delights floats your way. Many private villas and high-end resorts offer this service for an extra fee, so ask in advance before making your booking.

12. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

This isn’t quite as grand as a 1-hour hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia . But this 5-7 minute hot air balloon, 50 metres above the surrounding rice paddies, is one of the most romantic ways to start or end your day in Bali. Optionally, you can add breakfast or dinner to the experience and make the magic last longer.

Get your discounted tickets online . 

13. Take A Helicopter Ride

Whisk your loved one off their feet… quite literally. This isn’t a cheap tour, but it is an experience you’ll never forget. See Bali from a completely new perspective. Several scenic helicopter tour routes are available, depending on your departure point and preferred flight time. On a previous trip to Bali, I took a jaw-dropping flight over the volcanic landscape of Mount Batur.

14. Jet Ski in Nusa Dua

If aquatic escapades flick your switch, then Bali has you covered. Tanjung Benoa, a peninsula within Nusa Dua, is Bali’s hub for water sports – jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat, sea walker, and more. Strap on your GoPro and jump in!

15. Swim on a Secluded Beach - Gunung Payung

One of the least developed parts of southern Bali can be found at the meeting point of Nusa Dua and Uluwatu. I visited this relatively secluded beach 5 years ago, but it’s starting to become more popular now thanks to Instagram. Get there early to score a spot in the romantic cave west of the main entrance.

16. Sunset Walk along Kuta Beach

If you visit Bali between April to September, the weather is drier, and there’s little rubbish on the beach (it tends to wash up during the wet season). When your feet get tired after a romantic stroll along the lapping waves, grab a seat on a plastic chair and sip a cold drink, or splash out with a cushioned sun lounge (around Rp150,000 per pair) and watch the golden sun sink into the Indian Ocean.

17. Devdan Show

Get a taste of Indonesian culture in an engaging live performance of music and dance. The stage bursts with dazzling costumes, heart-pounding dances, and acrobatics that defy gravity. I’ve been multiple times. You won’t regret it!

Where to Stay in Bali for Couples

I’ve stayed in dozens of resorts, hotels and villas over the last two decades. So, these are my recommended places to stay for couples coming to Bali for a honeymoon celebrating an anniversary or birthday, or perhaps just an impromptu romantic getaway. All recommendations are from first-hand experience, so you can trust them.

The list is grouped by region/village.

The ultimate in luxury in Bali.

• Mulia Resort ( review )
• The Ritz-Carlton, Bali ( review )
• Samabe Bali Suites & Villas ( review )
• The Balé Nusa Dua
• The Westin Resort
• Grand Mirage Resort

Uluwatu/Ungasan/Goa Gong

The secluded southern region to get away from the hustle and bustle.

• Jumana Bali Ungasan Resort (formerly Banyan Tree Ungasan, review )
• Sun Island Suites & Spa Goa Gong ( review ) 

A slower-paced coastal region famous for beachfront seafood restaurants.

• InterContinental Bali Resort ( review )
• Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran ( review )

Tuban (South Kuta)

South of Kuta, the more family-friendly area that is also close to popular attractions.

• Bali Garden Beach Resort
• Sun Island Hotel & Spa Kuta ( review )
• Bali Dynasty Resort

The middle of the action. The most famous tourist hotspot in Bali.

• Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort ( review )
• Hard Rock Hotel Bali

Sandwiched between Kuta and Seminyak, this region is known for its nightlife.

• Sun Island Hotel & Spa Legian ( review ) 

The more upscale area north of Kuta and Legian, lined with beach bars and beach clubs.

• Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak Resort
• IZE Seminyak
• Avani Seminyak Bali Resort (formerly Anantara Vacation Club Bali Seminyak)
• Astagina Resort Villa and Spa Bali
• Sun Island Boutique Villas & Spa ( review )

This quickly-developing hipster district is known for vegan-friendly cafes and co-working spaces.

• The Santai Canggu (formerly The Santai Umalas)

The quieter district on the east coast that is more frequented by European tourists.

• ARTOTEL Sanur
• Prime Plaza Suites Sanur

The lush mountain region teeming with yoga studios, organic restaurants and spiritual seekers.

• Villa Amrita ( review )
• Viceroy Bali
• Bali Breeze Bungalows

West Bali (Banjuwedang)

The most remote area where relatively few tourists venture.

• The Menjangan

The Bottom Line

There you have it. Everything you need to get started planning your romantic trip to the island of the gods. These are the best attractions and hotels in Bali for couples, selected by an experienced traveller who knows the island inside out. Me!

Now all you need to do is book your flights , and break the news to your loved one. 

They’ll be over the moon!

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