Bali's Best: Top 25 Must-See Destinations and Experiences
Updated: Jun 12
Check out our Top 25 MUST SEE and DO destinations and activities in Bali!
Bali is one of the most beautiful and interesting Islands in the world. Visiting Indonesia's most popular tourist destination is an adventure worth taking if you are looking for fun, sun and culture!
Bali boasts beaches of all kinds, from the soft white sands and calm seas of Nusa Dua to the black sands and legendary surfing waves of Echo beach. This island offers something for everyone. You will find yourself immersed in the Balinese Hindu culture with opportunities to explore stunning temples and historical sights.
“Bali is more than a place. It’s a mood, it’s magical.
It’s a tropical state of mind.”
– Unknown
Join us as we count down the 25 must see and do places and activities in Bali.
White Water Rafting on the Ayung River
An unforgettable adventure in Bali! Spend the day on the Ayung River, surrounded by tropical forests and waterfalls located just outside the village of Ubud. This 2-hour guided trip will have you rafting downriver for approximately 7.5 miles in class II and III rapids. There are plenty of tour groups that offer days trips, transportation and sometimes lunch.
Spot Dolphins in Lovina
North Bali is not as well-traveled as other areas on the island like Ubud or Kuta, but it is just as majestic and a perfect spot if you are looking for a vacation away from the crowds. Besides peace and quiet northern Bali also offers beautiful beaches and Dolphin Tours. These early morning tours have you up and out on the water before sunrise. You will have a chance to relax and take in the views from a traditional outrigger boat on calms seas, making it an ideal place to spot hundreds of dolphin swimming and jumping right before your eyes.
Enjoy Bali's most famous dish- Baba Guling
Baba Guling (suckling pig) is a hugely popular and delicious dish on the island of Bali. Aromatic spices like turmeric, lemongrass, garlic and coriander permeate the tender spit-roasted meat; combined with rice, fresh veggies, and traditional spicy sambal makes this dish irresistible. You can find this dish in many warungs around the island, but our recommended places for the best Baba Guling are Ibu Oka’s, an institution in the heart of Ubud.
Climb Mount Batur
Bali boasts some of the world's most beautiful views, but one of our favorites is Mount Batur. This is a perfect place to take an early morning hike. We mean really early--starting at 2:00 am! Don’t worry it will be worth it. You will arrive at the summit just in time to take in the breathtaking sunrise views.
Learn to Surf in Kuta
Kuta beach is one of Bali's most popular sites, and it is no wonder, with long stretches of golden sand and stunning coastline. This beach is perfect for families and beginning surfers with gentle waves and plenty of surf instructors for hire. Sit and enjoy the sun on rented beach chairs with cold drinks. After a long day on the beach, venture across the street for shopping and dinner in the Beachwalk Mall.
Snorkel in Bali
Bali offers a vast array of water sports, from surfing and kayaking to diving and snorkeling. Bali's best spots for diving and snorkeling are found on the east coast of the island in Amed and Tulamben. Jemeluk Bay in Amed is the main attraction with an immense coral reef spanning the bay and is home to the Banyuning site, a Japanese shipwreck that attracts tons of beautiful tropical fish and reef sharks. If shipwrecks are your thing, neighboring Tulamben houses the sunken remains of the USAT Liberty wreck. Amed offers an array of restaurants, hotels and tour companies to accommodate your every need.
Watch a Traditional Balinese Dance
The Kecak Dance is a traditional Balinese performance that tells the Ramayana Hindu Epic story—usually performed by 50 to 100 men wearing only traditional kamben wraps. The performers sit in concentric circles around a coconut lamp and chant the words rhythmically "chak ke-chak ke-chak ke chak". This performance makes for a wonderful night out, usually one-hour long and starts around 6:00 pm. Some of the best places to watch this performance are the temples of Uluwatu and Tanah Lot.
Enjoy a Coffee Tasting
You will find that Bali is home to some of the most amazing tropical agriculture available, from coconut and jackfruit to coffee and cocoa beans. Take an afternoon drive from Ubud to the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, and you will find yourself driving by coffee plantations. These vast properties specialize in Kopi Luwak Coffee, otherwise known as "cat poop coffee". This coffee is eaten and discharged by the Asian Palm Civet, a small cat-like creature, before processing. Luwak coffee is some of the most expensive in the world, typically selling at $600 per kilo.
Delight in Amazing Local Chocolate
Pod Chocolate is delicious and happens to be the world's first 100% plant-based coffee factory located in the heart of Bali, making it a perfect stop on the way to visit Jatiluwih Rice Terrace or on the way to Lovina. This modern chocolate factory offers 20 plus varieties of chocolate as well as frappes and coffee.
Bathe in the Sacred Waters of Tirta Empul
If you are looking for an extraordinary and authentic Balinese experience, look no further than Tirta Empul, translated to mean holy water spring. This temple was founded in 926 A.D. and is dedicated to the Hindu god of water, Vishnu. The temple complex is relatively expansive, with several areas to sit, relax and pray, but the Jaba Tengah is the main event. This area houses two purification pools that are believed to have magical healing powers. Tourists and locals alike line up to cleanse themselves beneath the water spouts.
Hike to Tegenungan Waterfall
The island of Bali is home to many, many beautiful waterfalls, but one of our favorites is Tegenungan Waterfall. This waterfall is located about 30 minutes outside of Ubud. It is a perfect escape from the bustling urban centers of Bali. To reach the waterfall, you will need to descend about 100 steps, but the path is clean and easy to maneuver. You can enjoy several Instagram worthy moments from the giant swing to several cute signs and a restaurant ready to serve you authentic Balinese cuisine.
Spend the Day in Canggu and Echo Beach
Canggu is located just north of Seminyak; this area is known for its laid-back vibes and incredible surf. Famous amongst surfers, this beach is not for beginners as the waves are powerful, and there can be a dangerous riptide. The beach is lined with small stalls serving food and drinks. A favorite place to enjoy dinner and the sunset is Echo Beach Club, where you can enjoy fresh grilled seafood.
Climb the stairs of Besakih-Bali's Mother Temple
Known as Pura Agung Besakih in Balinese, this is the largest Hindu temple complex in Bali and often referred to as the "Mother Temple". Sitting for more than 1,000 years on the southwest slopes of Mount Agung in Northwest Bali. This holy and most important temple complex is dedicated to the three primary Hindu Gods, Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. Visitors are welcome to climb the stairs and explore the ancient temples.
Take a Photo at the Gates of Heaven
Lempuyang Temple located within the Besakih complex is where you can explore the seven layers of the universe, each with its own shrines. This Temple has become extremely popular for its Instagram worthy setting, but that is not all it has to offer. Take some time to admire the stone carvings and ceremonial rituals around you.
Bask in the picture perfect Tegalalang Rice Terrace
The Tegallalang Rice Terrace is a spectacular place to take in the beauty of Bali. Just north of Ubud, it is definitely worth the trip. This rice field is famous for the traditional Balinese terraced irrigation system cut into the valley walls in combination with the surrounding green landscape makes for spectacular scenery.
Feast on Seafood in Jimbaran
Jimbaran Beach is the perfect place if you are looking for an amazing sunset, fresh seafood and your toes in the sand; every night we spent on this beach was magical and delicious! The long white sand beach is lined with restaurants, all of which offer similar menus, food and prices, making it hard to go wrong when picking a place for the night. Our best tip is to arrive early to get the best-unobstructed views of the sunset. We often would arrive in the afternoon for sunbathing and splashing in the water; the restaurants will offer you beach chairs if you are a paying customer, and we would enjoy a few Bintang beers before dinner. The restaurants are fun and offer a large variety of seafood choices that are freshly grilled to perfection. A visit to Jimbaran is undoubtedly a must-do while in Bali.
Find Culture and Art in Ubud
Ubud is considered Bali's cultural heart, and you cannot visit this fantastic island without spending some time there. Ubud is known for its thriving arts and crafts industry, cultural performances, traditional Balinese healers, yoga, and so much more. In the heart of Ubud, you will find the traditional market where you can buy many beautiful treasures. Just across the street from the market you can take a tour of the Ubud Palace. There are tons of great restaurants, performances, and shops to enjoy while visiting this village. If you are interested in finding some of the regions, best deals there are villages just outside Ubud specialize in silver jewelry, wood carvings and Batik fabrics.
Ubud Monkey Forest
Ubud Monkey Forest is an oasis of lush green forest within the village of Ubud. Here you can watch and interact with hundreds of monkeys and trust me; they are not shy. Sit still long enough, and you will find that you have several new friends.
Explore Goa Gajah Temple
Goa Gajah is a remarkable Hindu temple and archaeological site, known locally as the Elephant Cave. This temple cave offers a different experience from other temples in Bali. After descending the long stretch of stairs, you find the cave opening adorned with carvings. Around this cave, you will discover ancient bathing pools and an enormous, sacred Ceiba tree.
Surf the waves at Padang Padang Beach
This stunning beach is located in the Bukit Peninsula on the south-west coastline. This 100 meter-long stretch of sand is accessible down a flight of stairs and through a unique hollow rock entrance. Know for attracting surfers and surf competitions; this area is not ideal for beginners. It is still a lovely place to relax, build a sandcastle or enjoy a meal at one of the local warungs.
Check out the caves of Suluban Beach
Nicknamed Blue Point, Suluban Beach is one of the most beautiful and rugged beaches in Bali. This shoreline is surrounded by natural limestone formations and is accessed by quite a few steps and long ramps through narrow rock gaps. This beach is ideal for pro surfers or someone looking to enjoy a slightly more adventurous beach experience. It is located just down the coastline from Padang Padang and Uluwatu. You will find plenty to do with local warungs, small shops and surfboard rentals all available.
Sip Drinks in Seminyak
Seminyak is known for its modern and beautiful resorts, restaurants and bars. Double Six Beach is one of Bali's most popular hang-out spots to have a few drinks and enjoy the sunset. Located just north of Kuta beach, you will find various activities from spa treatments to art museums and more.
Marvel at Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is considered one of the six main temples in Bali. The Balinese Hindu believe that the powers of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva merge here. This area sits over 200 feet above the beach, perched high on limestone cliffs and surrounded by lush green forests. This is the perfect spot to take in one of the daily Kecak dances in the amphitheater or stroll along the cliff line paths for some of the most remarkable views in Bali.
Enjoy a Spa Treatment in Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is located on the Bukit Peninsula and is home to some of the most pristine beaches and luxury resorts. If you are looking to relax book yourself a spa day in one of the many luxury hotels in this area. Once you have been adequately pampered, have fun sunbathing on Geger Beach or playing a round of golf at the Bali National Golf Club.
Walk out onto the 'land in the Sea' -Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali. This spectacular rock formation houses an ancient and spiritually significant water temple for the Balinese. Explore the main temple as well as the beautiful grounds.
As we conclude our journey through Bali's vibrant and diverse landscape, we hope this curated list of the Top 25 MUST SEE and DO destinations has ignited your wanderlust for your own Balinese adventure. From the serene temples of Ubud to the mesmerizing coral reefs that await beneath the waves, each experience is designed to touch your soul and captivate your senses. Bali is more than just a destination; it's an invitation to explore, discover, and create unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, open your heart to new adventures, and remember that in Bali, every corner holds a story waiting to be told and a moment to be treasured. Safe travels, and may your Balinese adventure be as magical as the island itself.
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