20 Top Things To Do In Bali
Bali is such a special place. The island is known for its stunning beaches, gorgeous green tropical forests, and amazing culture.
The Balinese culture is deeply rooted in religion, with temples and offerings visible throughout the island. The locals are SO incredibly friendly and welcoming - some of the nicest people I've encountered while traveling. The food in Bali is also really good, with a range of delicious dishes influenced by local ingredients and global influences.
There are so many unique and amazing things to experience, it’s hard to narrow it down! Here are my top 20 things to do in Bali.
20 Top Things To Do In Bali
1. Visit Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is located on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean in the southern part of the island. It’s also known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu, and is one of the six key temples believed to be Bali’s spiritual pillars. The temple is home to some mischievous monkeys, so make sure to keep your belongings close. We saw someone get their sunglasses taken by one!
2. Go Surfing At Uluwatu Beach
If you're a surfer, Uluwatu is one of the best places to be. Uluwatu Beach is a popular spot for surfers and has consistent waves no matter what time of year. It's best for intermediate to advanced surfers because of the reef break. Aside from being a great place to surf, you have amazing views to look at.
3. Take A Yoga Class At Yoga Barn
One of my travel bucket list items was to do Yoga in Bali, specifically Ubud. We found Yoga Barn and took a beginners class. This was one of my top most relaxing moments ever – I even fell asleep in a yoga pose for what was probably two minutes, but felt like a deep sleep. Oops.
4. Go Snorkeling or Diving in Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island, located off the northwest coast of Bali, is known for its coral reefs and diverse marine life. Part of the West Bali National Park, this secluded island offers some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in Bali. The crystal-clear waters surrounding Menjangan are home to so many fish species, including the iconic and elusive Menjangan (Javanese) deer, after which the island is named.
5. Visit The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Monkey Forest Sanctuary is another iconic top thing to do in Bali. You’ll wander through the forest with hundreds of monkeys roaming about. And the infamous monkeys are no joke… proceed with caution! Even though we didn’t have any negative encounters, we saw a few climb up and steal things from other people. As long as you’re mindful, it will be a pleasant experience.
6. Cleanse At Tirta Empul Temple
Participate in a traditional cleansing ritual at this holy water temple in Tampak Siring. It’s a very unique experience. If you plan on getting into the water (which you should for the full experience), make sure to bring a towel. For girls, I recommend bringing bikini bottoms + a change of clothes.
7. Visit Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple, situated on the southwestern coast of Bali, is an iconic sea temple that symbolizes the island’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The temple is perched on a rock formation just offshore, and appears to float above the Indian Ocean. You can explore the temple grounds and see the Balinese architecture, ancient stone carvings, and sculptures. During low tide, you can even walk to the base of the temple. Be sure to plan your visit around the sunset - it’s gorgeous.
8. Explore Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
Goa Gajah, known as the Elephant Cave, is an ancient archaeological site with a super cool cave entrance, intricate carvings, and a tranquil temple. Located in Ubud, this ancient cave dates back to the 9th century and is adorned with intricate carvings. The entrance to the cave is marked by a demon's mouth. Inside, you will encounter a cavernous space with a central meditation area and the remains of ancient bathing pools.
9. Climb Mount Batur
Although climbing Mount Batur starts with a 2am wake up call to hike an active volcano, it’s a great experience. Most guides will pick you up from your hotel, treat you to coffee/breakfast, and then take you to the hike. It’s pretty dark for the majority of the hike (since the goal is to make it up the mountain by sunrise), but once you get to the top, it’s SO worth it. The sunrise is beautiful and the views are gorgeous.
10. Watch A Bali Sunset
A Bali sunset feels like you’re watching the sunset on the edge of the world. Regardless of where you are in Bali, there are so many amazing places to experience the sunset. Single Fin is probably one of the most popular spots in Uluwatu – made obvious by the dozens of motorbikes parked outside when you arrive. It’s a multi-story bar/restaurant with seating on a first come-first serve basis.
La Plancha (in Seminyak) is still one of my favorite places ever to watch the sunset. Imagine lounging on a beanbag chair overlooking the ocean/sunset, surrounded by a beach full of people and colorful umbrellas. Add in a cold glass of wine and speakers playing old dance hits - it doesn't get much better than that.
11. Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces
One of the most iconic things to do in Bali is to go to the rice terrace (or rice paddies). You can walk through the fields, taking pictures and learning about Bali's traditional agricultural practices.
12. Try Balinese Cuisine
Balinese cuisine includes a blend of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and locally sourced ingredients. Most meals are usually accompanied by Bumbu Bali (a spicy sambal chili paste) and the aromatic Boreh (a herbal paste believed to have health benefits). Be sure to try all the staples:
Nasi Goreng: A delicious fried rice dish often served with a fried egg on top
Babi Guling: Suckling pig, usually enjoyed on special occasions
Bebek Betutu: A slow-cooked duck infused with traditional spices
Sate Lilit: Fish satay wrapped around bamboo sticks
Lawar: A traditional minced meat salad with herbs and spices
Ayam Betutu: A slow-cooked chicken dish
13. Attend a Traditional Kecak Dance
Attending a traditional Kecak Dance performance in Bali is a unique cultural experience. Typically held in the evenings at open-air amphitheaters, the dance includes performers dressed in traditional costumes, reenacting ancient stories.
14. Visit The Four Seasons Ubud (Sayan)
The Four Seasons in Sayan, Ubud is stunning and definitely earns its keep as one of the top hotels in the world. Surrounded by rice terraces and palm trees, the resort is peaceful and serene. Even if you aren’t staying at the Four Seasons, you can still walk around and grab a drink at their bar.
15. Go Swimming At The Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is situated in the lush jungles near Ubud. It’s one of the most popular waterfalls in Bali and allows visitors to swim in the pool at its base. There is gorgeous greenery surrounding the waterfall, making it super peaceful. The waterfall is easily accessible, with a short walk down a staircase that leads to a gorgeous viewpoint.
16. Spend A Day At Finn’s Beach Club
Seminyak is known for its clubs (specifically, beach clubs). One of the most popular beach clubs, and my personal favorite, is Finn’s Beach Club. Finn’s is like a Vegas pool party, but on the beach overlooking the ocean. Whether you come for a drink or spend the whole day there, you’ll have such a great time.
17. Swing On A Bali Swing
Before getting to the Bali Swing, I didn’t realize there are a number of other swings + activities to do. You pay for entry and have access for however long you want. If you’re trying to take a ton of pictures, I would recommend getting there right when it opens to avoid a rush. We went on a Thursday and it was PACKED with everyone trying to get the best picture.
18. Relax At Seminyak Beach
Seminyak Beach is located on Bali’s southwest coast. Unlike some of the busier beaches in Bali, Seminyak is more laid back. The beach is filled with chic beach clubs, bars, and luxury resorts. You can partake in a variety of water activities like surfing to horseback riding. And like I mentioned earlier, don’t miss experiencing a Bali sunset on Seminyak beach!
19. Take A Balinese Cooking Class
Taking a Balinese cooking class is an immersive way to learn more about the island’s culinary heritage. Classes usually start with a visit to a local market, where you’ll pick fresh ingredients. You’ll learn the art of preparing traditional dishes like Nasi Goreng, Babi Guling, and Lawar. The instructor will share insight into the cultural significance of the ingredients and the role of food in Balinese traditions. Most classes take place in a charming setting too.
20. Visit Pura Lempuyang
Pura Lempuyang, often referred to as the "Gateway to Heaven," is a spiritually significant and stunning temple complex situated on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang in East Bali. It’s known for its iconic split gate, or "Candi Bentar," that frames a view of Mount Agung, Bali's highest volcano. The temple complex consists of several different temples, with the main temple, Pura Lempuyang Luhur, situated at the summit. To reach the top, you’ll climb ~1,700 steps, passing other smaller temples along the way. The views are amazing.
