Bali is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful regions globally, and with good reason. Its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery make traveling to Bali an enticing idea. It’s also still a unique destination, so you know you won’t be getting the same experience as everyone else.
Whether you want to go on an adventure or just relax by the beach eating local food, a trip to Bali can scratch that itch. And with our Bali travel tips, it can be affordable, too.
Things to See and Do In Bali
Bali is rich in culture and has a lot to offer. While it’s renowned for its beautiful beaches, gorgeous ocean-fronts, and breathtaking scenery, it also has a thriving arts and culture scene. The entire region is dotted with beautiful temples and historical sites open to the public. Here we’ve compiled some of the main things Bali is known for, but remember – this is just a start!
1. Temples
All around Bali, you can find gorgeous temples in a variety of shapes and sizes. These have religious significance and are ornately decorated, and many of them have centuries of history associated with them.
Start with the iconic Tanah Lot temple positioned atop a rock and surrounded by open sea, one of Bali’s most important sea temples. Or visit Uluwatu, which is positioned prominently at the top of a cliff. During the day, you can see the expansive seascape; in the late afternoon, take in the breathtaking sunsets. The Besakih Temple, known as Bali’s “mother temple,” is a compound of elaborate architecture you won’t want to miss. And don’t forget Bunut Bolong, an offbeat landmark shrine positioned against a hollow banyan tree.
2. Scenery and wildlife
Bali is renowned for its beauty and with good reason. Appreciate the lush rolling greenery of the Tegallang and Jatiliwuh Rice Terraces. Or embark on a safari and enjoy Bali’s Marine Park, the region’s largest animal theme park. Bali has many beachfront hotels where you can stroll beaches peacefully if you want to admire the scenery without having to travel far.
3. Arts and culture
Acquaint yourself with Bali’s one-of-a-kind arts scene. Start with the Ubud Art Market and browse local crafts – a great place to pick up souvenirs. Take in their food culture with sunset dining, sampling fresh-caught seafood. Bali has many local dances; catch a performance of the Baron and Kris or Legong dances. When you’re finished, visit one of Bali’s most important archaeological sites, Goa Gajah.
4. Embark on an outdoor adventure
If you want to experience Bali’s environment in a more hands-on way, visit Kintamani, a mountain village in Central Bali home to Mount Batur. Unsurprisingly, Bali also offers a wealth of water sports such as surfing, white water rafting, snorkeling, and relaxing hot springs.
Already overwhelmed with possibilities? Start at Trip Advisor. You’ll find up-to-date information on all the exciting activities Bali has to offer.
Where To Stay in Bali
There’s no shortage of places to stay in Bali, but we’ve rounded up a few favorites to get you started.
1. Ubud (Central Bali)
In a lot of ways, Ubud is the best of everything. Its central location makes day trips to farther-out sites like Gunung Kawi’s cliff sculptures, Jatiluwih rice terraces, and the Bali Zoo doable. Ubud itself is also fascinating. If you stay in the city, you’ll find a vibrant live music scene, plentiful eateries, and activities for your spiritual side like meditation and yoga retreats.
Keep in mind if your priority for your Bali visit is water sports, Ubud may not be for you; its centralized location doesn’t put it on any beaches.
2. Sanur
If you’ve never been to Indonesia before, consider starting in Sanur. Bali’s busier regions can be overwhelming for some people. A quieter area rich with resorts, Sanur is a good place to dip your toes into all Bali has to offer. It’s just a short taxi ride from Kuta’s airport, malls, and nightclubs, so you can sample activities without being inundated with them.
3. Seminyak
Perhaps Bali’s best food scene, Seminyak, is filled with eclectic cafes and quaint bistros right on the ocean. In the afternoon, beachside cafes even spread beanbag chairs on the sand so you can enjoy the sunset while sipping cocktails and taking in live music.
4. Nusa Lembongan
If you’re looking to get away from it all and spend your trip in quiet contemplation, this is a great option. The remote location makes it less than ideal for shopping or nightlife but makes it perfect for exploring groves of trees, remote beaches, and quiet villages.
5. Jimbaran
To set yourself up for a romantic vacation, consider tranquil Jimbaran. There are many resorts here, but they aren’t catered to kids, meaning a quiet stay for you. The long, winding sandy beaches are great for sunbathing and long walks. In the afternoon, seaside cafes offer romantic candlelit dinners. Watch the sunset while you sample fresh seafood, admire fireworks, and take in performances by local musicians and dancers.
6. Pasir Putih
This largely undeveloped site is considered to be the best beach in Bali. Along the East Coast, its white sand is largely undisturbed. The area has no hotels and just a handful of small cafes. Its pristine white sand is mostly undisturbed, meaning you can enjoy the calm seas and nearby coconut groves. The curving bay’s rocky outcrops make it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Half the beach is still a fishing village, which lends credence to its claims of a yet-undiscovered gem.
7. Toya Bungkah
This village is positioned inside the crater of Mount Batur, Bali’s most active volcano. It has many spots for visitors to enjoy hot springs and cool-water pools, including the most popular (and incredibly affordable) Toya Devasya Resort. Toya Bungkah is extremely affordable, especially for the setting it provides. The restaurant and villa are very comfortable, yet the setting along the deep blue crater lake in the shadow of a volcano adds excitement.
8. Nusa Dua
If you’re looking for luxury on a budget, the gated complex of 4 and 5-star resorts in Nusa Dua are for you. If the nightlife chaos of Kuta sounds like too much for you, Nusa Dua was designed to be approachable and relaxing. You won’t find any traffic or street vendors there, and the streets are kept clean.
These resorts are great for couples or families with kids. Most boast gardens, swimming pools, and beachside lounging. The resorts all have their own shops and bars but are mostly positioned too far from external shops and eateries for you to walk there. Fear not, resort shuttle buses make the rest of Bali accessible.
When To Visit Bali
Bali’s weather makes it simple to plan a trip in that it only has 2 seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Temperatures are consistent throughout the year (except daytime temperatures between the mid-80s and low 90s Fahrenheit), so the only weather change from season to season is humidity and precipitation.
It’s generally agreed that Bali’s best time is during the dry season: April through October. The lack of rain during the summer season makes for fantastic beach weather. However, this is also (unsurprisingly) peak tourist season. Hotel prices spike in July and August, so book as early as you can to avoid paying ridiculous amounts for a room. If you can, book just before or just after peak season (April through June or September) to get the best price. Check Booking.com to find the best prices on hotels all around Bali.
- Bali Arts Festival in June and July
- Nusa Dua Festival in June and July
- Bali Kites Festival in July and August
- Indonesia Independence Day in August
While not ideal, the rainy season (aka, the off-season) from November through March is undeniably less expensive. Expect huge amounts of rain – in January, Bali sees some amount of precipitation nearly every day. You’ll also see high humidity, decreased visibility at dive sites, and mosquitoes. But your trip will cost less. Depending on your priorities and what in Bali you’re looking to do, it might be worth considering a trip during this part of the year.
Notable events during the wet season: Nepi Festival in March
Sample Budgets for Bali’s Top Spots
As in any place, different areas in Bali will cost you different amounts. Here, we’ve provided sample budgets for all the most popular Bali locations. Mix and match if you’re planning a long tour of the whole area, or stick to one and plan accordingly.
Central Bali:
This area is cooler than in other regions. Expect more rain here than in other areas, but that means Central Bali is lush and beautiful. It’s known for its breathtaking scenery – explore its mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and botanical gardens.
Hotel: $8 – $14 per day
Breakfast: $2.5 per day (if you eat out; you can often get breakfast included at your hotel)
Lunch: $4 per day
Dinner: $5 per day
Transportation: $4 per day, if you take taxis
Renting a scooter to get around the city is a great way to save here. Bonus, it’s fun!
Activities: $6 per day
Others: $1.5 per day (including SIM cards, toiletries, incidentals, etc.)
Total: $36
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan:
This region’s most famous site is Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, located in Lakeside. This region is one of the most photographed in all of Bali, with good reason. Its iconic temples provide a breathtaking and distinctive backdrop for you to remember your travels. If your main interest in visiting Bali is the culture, this is a great place to start.
Hotel: $10 – $15 per day
Breakfast: $2.7 per day (if you eat out; you can often get breakfast included at your hotel)
Lunch: $5 per day
Dinner: $5.2 per day
Transportation: $3.8 per day, if you take taxis
Renting a scooter to get around the city is a great way to save here. Bonus, it’s fun!
Activities: $3.5 per day
Others: $1.5 per day (including SIM cards, toiletries, incidentals, etc.)
Total: $37
Lake Batur And Besakih Temple East Bali:
Lake Batur is a gorgeous clear lake in Kintamani. Volcanic eruptions formed the lake over time. This is due to the still-active Mount Batur just a few kilometers southeast of the lake.
Also notable is the Besakih Temple, or the “Mother Temple.” This unique, artistic complex of over 86 temples rests 1,000 meters high on Mount Agung’s slopes. Built over 1,000 years ago, the temples are truly ancient.
The most visited individual temple is the Pura Penataran Agung or the Great Temple of State. This is considered to be the largest and holiest island temple in all of Bali. Every year, at least seventy festivals take place there.
Hotel: $7 to $11 per day
Breakfast: $2 per day (if you eat out; you can often get breakfast included at your hotel)
Lunch: $4.5 per day
Dinner: $5 per day
Transportation: $3 per day, if you take taxis
Renting a scooter to get around the city is a great way to save here. Bonus, it’s fun!
Activities: $2.5 per day
Others: $1.4 per day (including SIM cards, toiletries, incidentals, etc.)
Total: $26
Ubud:
Ubud is considered to be Bali’s arts and cultural hub. Set against the backdrop of cool mountains, dense forests, and sprawling rice paddies, you can find famous resorts and cultural sites such as museums, zoos, and shops. There’s a flourishing art scene here, which means it’s a great place to admire pieces or to shop – you can find antiques, crafts, woodcarvings, paintings, and jewelry.
Hotel: $2 to $5 per day.
Breakfast: $2.5 per day (if you eat out; you can often get breakfast included at your hotel)
Lunch: $4 per day
Dinner: $3.5 per day
Transportation: $3.7 per day, if you take taxis
Renting a scooter to get around the city is a great way to save here. Bonus, it’s fun!
Activities: $6 per day
Others: $1.2 per day (including SIM cards, toiletries, incidentals, etc.)
Total: $24
Seminyak And Sanur:
These two islands provide a wide range of appeal and activities. Seminyak is considered to be the most stylish and upscale beach resort area in Bali. It’s very touristy, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the high-end shopping scene, fine dining, and lavish villas. You can also find great art and crafts and even furniture shops to browse.
Sanur is known for its soothing coastal setting. Its many hotel resorts are located on the eastern side of the island’s isthmus. You can find traditional fishing boats along the coast, affording a scenic view of the nearby island Nusa Penida along Sunrise Beach.
Hotel: $6 – $11 per day
Breakfast: $2.5 per day (if you eat out; you can often get breakfast included at your hotel)
Lunch: $4.8 per day
Dinner: $5.5 per day
Transportation: $3 per day, if you take taxis
Renting a scooter to get around the city is a great way to save here. Bonus, it’s fun!
Activities: $8 per day
Others: $1.5 per day (including SIM cards, toiletries, incidentals, etc.)
Total: $34
The Nusa Islands:
This small island cluster is only a 30-minute boat ride from Sanur, making them an ideal quick stop along your journey. Start at Nusa Lembongan, then make stops at Nusa Penida and Nusa Cenigan. The islands boast a waterfall, treehouse, and gorgeous clear blue water you’ll love basking alongside and taking a dip into.
Nusa Penida:
Hotel: $6 – $12 per day
Breakfast: $2.5 per day (if you eat out; you can often get breakfast included at your hotel)
Lunch: $5 per day
Dinner: $5.5 per day
Transportation: $3 per day if you take taxis. Rent a scooter instead to save on transportation.
Activities: $7 per day
Others: $1.5 per day (including SIM cards, toiletries, incidentals, etc.)
Total: $31
Nusa Lembongan:
Hotel: $8 – $12 per day
Breakfast: $2.5 per day (if you eat out; you can often get breakfast included at your hotel)
Lunch: $5 per day
Dinner: $5.5 per day
Transportation: $3 per day if you take taxis. Rent a scooter instead to save on transportation.
Activities: $7 per day
Others: $1.5 per day (including SIM cards, toiletries, incidentals, etc.)
Total: $36
Kuta Beach:
Meander down Kuta Beach’s trademark long, white sand beach, taking in its renowned waves. Kuta Beach is also called Sunset Beach because it’s positioned directly opposite Sunrise Beach (Sanur’s Beach).
While the main draw to this small island is definitely the beach (there aren’t many other tourist attractions here), this is a fantastic place to sample local food like fresh-caught fish prepared spicy. Browse the small local shops in this quiet fishing village and enjoy a nice break from the whirlwind of the rest of your trip.
Hotel: $4 – $8 per day
Breakfast: $2 per day (if you eat out; you can often get breakfast included at your hotel)
Lunch: $4.5 per day
Dinner: $4 per day
Transportation: $4 per day if you take taxis. Rent a scooter instead to save on transportation.
Activities: $6 per day
Others: $1.5 per day (including SIM cards, toiletries, incidentals, etc.)
Total: $27
How to Cut Costs Without Skimping on Experiences
1. Book your hotels and airfare early
Just like with any trip, you’ll pay less the further in advance you book. If you can, book just before or just after the dry season for your best prices. Check Booking.com to find the best prices on hotels all around the region, no matter your budget. For flights, check Skyscanner.
2. Eat like a local
Bali has an abundance of restaurants aimed at appealing to Western tourists, particularly in Ubud and Canggu. But this comes with a hefty price tag that probably conflicts with your prime directive to stick to a budget.
The solution to this is to eat at local restaurants instead. You’re in Indonesia; embrace it, and that means embracing the food. Try local markets (not the touristy ones; the early-morning and night markets that locals shop at). You’ll find cheap, delicious food there, and it’s an activity in and of itself to see the hustle and bustle. Besides, why would you want to eat at a Westernized restaurant and get a dish you can buy at home? Balinese food is delicious, much cheaper, and is an experience you simply can’t get at home.
3. Rent a scooter for the day
Just like anywhere else, Balinese cities are too big to walk everywhere. Public transportation isn’t really a thing in Bali, so your options are to take a taxi or a scooter. It’s easy to find taxis, but it’s much less expensive to rent a scooter for the day.
If you’re intimidated, don’t worry – riding a scooter isn’t that hard! Just be sure to wear a helmet and drive carefully. Follow traffic laws. And follow traveler common sense – don’t leave your belongings in your parked scooter.
4. Skip overpriced taxis
Occasionally, you’ll inevitably need to just get from one place to another, and renting a scooter for the quick trip won’t be practical. When you do need a taxi, skip overpriced ones and stick to Uber or Bluebird Taxis. Bluebird Taxis are recognizably bright blue and are a reputable company known for their reasonable prices. You can hail one at the curb, or you can download the app and order one that way.
5. Pay with cash, not a card
Many Balinese stores don’t take cards at all, and those that do will often charge you a hefty transaction fee. The last thing you want to do is spend money on fees that you could be spending on experiences. Plan ahead; get cash at an ATM right after your plane lands and use that for purchases.
Best Bali Travel Books You Can Find on Amazon
1. Bali: The Solo Girl's Travel Guide
This tagline really says it all: “Ditch the generic travel guides that are impersonal AF and feel like they were written for your nerdy cousin who wears socks with sandals.”
Written specifically with solo female travelers in mind but with tips that can apply to anyone embarking on their journey unaccompanied, this vacation planner’s writing is so witty you’ll love reading it. The book includes standards like a packing list and money-saving tips, but it goes further than that.
You’ll get personal access to a travel expert and author, Alexa West, for all your questions. The book includes snippets of cultural and historical information but promises not to be overwhelming in its depth so that you can stay focused on your trip. And true to its premise, West answers specific questions women traveling on their own might have, like how to avoid sketchy areas and feel safe when traveling alone.
2. Lonely Planet Bali, Lombok & Nusa Tenggara
If you’re looking for a standard guidebook with a trusted name, this is the one for you. It’s been recently updated, so you know the information is still current (no more outdated guidebooks!).
Its highlights include honest reviews for destinations to fit any budget, hidden gems, cultural insights to help you get the most out of your experience and appreciate Bali’s cultural heritage in addition to its tourist attractions, and a summary of every single region in detail. It’s also honest – for key sites, it lets you know what’s actually a must-see and what popular things you can skip.
In addition to common guidebook information, it also includes hours of operation for important sites, phone numbers, transit tips, and transit prices. It’s even illustrated!
3. Bali: The Ultimate Guide To the World's Most Spectacular Tropical Island
This truly comprehensive guide covers must-visit spots as well as lesser-known sites you may have missed otherwise, with detailed descriptions of everything, so you know what you’re getting into. Included history and culture articles make it easy for you to read up on Bali before you even get there.
A practical guide as well as a travel guide, you’ll find a language primer, etiquette tips, transportation notes, and a glossary to help you communicate well with locals, avoid accidentally coming off as a rude tourist, and tips to help you get around.
They even included a few bonuses that none of these other books have: information on the nearby Gili Islands and a physical pull-out map! We know just about everyone uses Google Maps nowadays, but sometimes you really do need a paper map instead of fumbling on your tiny phone screen. Or hang it up in your house to remember your trip!
4. 101 Amazing Things to Do in Bali: Bali Travel Guide
This is a great start if you’re looking for inspiration on specific places to visit but are feeling stumped and is all written in a casual, fun tone that will make you feel like you’re planning your trip with a friend (even if you’re venturing out solo).
The information is truly exhaustive and comprehensive, including eateries, where to buy authentic souvenirs to buy the best gifts for your friends back home, and the best places to make local friends. The “festival information” section lists everything from religious festivals at sacred Hindu temples to electronic music festivals so you can groove on the beach.
Packing List
In addition to your regular travel packing list, there are a few items you want to make sure you bring along that are specific to Bali.
1. Lightweight pashmina/cover-up
Balinese temples require both men and women to cover their shoulders and knees before entry. In Bali’s warm climate, you probably won’t want to cover up that much for the rest of your trip. Bring a full scarf or cover-up so you can respect the sacred spaces you’re visiting while staying comfortable for the rest of your trip.
2. Lightweight, water-resistant backpack
If you’re bringing your things along with you on a ferry to the Nusa or Gili Islands, porters will likely carry your bags through waist-deep water. While they’re obviously pros at this by now, I’d personally opt for a lightweight, easy-to-carry backpack that won’t get ruined if it’s dropped in the water. For your own peace of mind, opt for a backpack that’s easy to carry and is a lot easier to handle than a heavy, clunky suitcase. Bonus, it’ll be more comfortable for you to bring on adventures.
Bali is known for its gorgeous beaches and water attractions. If the mood strikes you, you want to be able to hop in and out of waterfalls, rivers, pools in water temples (if permitted!), and the ocean, without spending the rest of the day sopping wet or bringing a full change of clothes.
These shorts won’t get dirty or wrinkled and look stylish (no one will be able to tell you bought them purely for practical reasons) and are perfect for going on adventures near the water right before heading off to the next part of your adventure.
We know, just about everyone owns a pair of sandals. But if you’re adventuring through Bali, you’ll need sandals that are supportive, sturdy, comfortable, durable, and that you can take from the beach all the way up through mountains.
These aren’t your grandpa’s sandals. They’re lightweight, have a great grip, and can even double as water shoes. They were made for running on mud, dirt, and gravel, so you can even take them on mountain hikes. And, bonus, they’re cute!
5. Don’t forget about traveler’s insurance!
Whenever you travel, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Allianz Assistance traveler’s insurance can get you the coverage you need for peace of mind at a price that won’t break your budget. It’s all about keeping your money focused on what’s most important – experiencing everything Bali has to offer.
We hope this guide and all our tips prove helpful in planning your trip to Bali. Get in touch – have you been to Bali? What tips did you use to stay on budget without skimping on all your favorite activities?
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