The best things to do in Bali include not-to-be-missed cultural treasures and some of the most iconic landmarks and landscapes that you can find around this magical island. There are innumerable temples, historical sites, and spots of natural beauty spread across Bali’s 8 regencies, which were formerly kingdoms.
This compilation of great things to see and do in Bali will help you discover the best the island has to offer. Go east to see the majestic ‘mother temple’ and magnificent royal water palaces or travel to the island’s lush interior where rice paddies offer scenic photo opportunities. From Bali’s scenic vistas to exotic cultural performances, there is something for everyone.
Visit some of the best beaches in Bali
Not only are the beaches in Bali some of the best in the world, but also one of the best free things to do in Bali. Bring a beach towel with you and claim a spot on the beach. For a few Indonesian rupiahs, you can rent a beach chair and umbrella. Better yet you may want to rent a house right on the beach. There are a lot of listings in Bali that you may rent that are beachfront. There would be no better place to wake up than at the beach and see the beautiful sunrise and sunset at the beach.
Surf at Kuta beach
If you’re into surfing, Bali is famous for surfing. There are several places offering surf lessons right on the beach or, if you know how to surf, you can rent a surfboard for a few hours. So why not catch your first wave in Bali?
Visit the Ubud monkey forrest
You should be prepared to get up and close with the monkeys at the Ubud monkey forest. Whatever you do, don’t buy bananas from the nice ladies out front or else you want the monkeys will literally crawl up on you. Always keep all your bags zipped and don’t wear a hat/sunglasses, the monkeys are known to be naughty thieves.
Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
It is one of the best things to do in Bali. One of the prettiest in many temples in Bali is the Ulun Danu Beratan temple. It is a floating temple just off the shore in Lake Bratan, which is in the centre of Bali, 3600 feet above sea level. So, it’s really nice and a cool place.
Get a balinesse massage
After a tiring day with all the things to do in Bali, you may want to relax with a Balinese massage. Massages in Bali is super affordable and really amazing. It will cost you around $5 for an hour for a Balinese massage. Massage parlours offer several types of massages and other services. If you happen to run into some rain in Bali, just go get a massage. You will forget about the rain.
Try beach parasailing
If you want some adrenaline rush. Nothing will compare to a good dose of adrenaline to get your day started! Parasailing in Bali is beautiful and one of the cheapest places. It will cost you $30, but only for a few minutes. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro to get some good and cool photos of the beaches in Bali from above.
Hike mount Batur at sunrise
For breathtaking views set your alarm super early. Hiking at Mount Batur starts several hours before the sun rises. The early morning wake-up call is totally worth it once you make it to the top of Mount Batur and you see the sun rising it’s really a promising view. This is easily one of our favourite things to do in Bali and we would do it again in a heartbeat.
Watch the magnificent Bali sunset
There is no better way to end a perfect day in Bali than watching the sunset. Head to the beach and watch the locals come out to play a game of beach soccer, or head to a rooftop bar for happy hour and grab some beer.
Eat your chicken satay
Chicken Satay with peanut sauce? Yes, please! Yummy! Chicken Satay is a must-try dish when in Bali. These tasty little meat skewers are served with a delicious peanut dipping sauce. Once you pop you can’t stop. Eating chicken satay is one of the best things to do in Bali and one you’ll find yourself doing over and over. Very delish!
Visit the Tegallalang rice terraces
For another scenic view, go to the gorgeous green rice paddies really exist and they make for some epic photos. When planning out your things to do in Bali make sure to schedule a day in the Ubud area for the Tegallalang rice terraces & Ubud Monkey Forest. Instagramable view.
Try yoga in Bali
Get your “Eat Pray Love” on and give yoga a try in Bali. There are a lot of yoga retreats in Bali, more specifically in Ubud.
Drink a cup of Kopi Luwak coffee
Drink a cup of the most expensive coffee in the world, Kopi Luwak Bali coffee. This is the coffee that is made from the coffee beans that have been eaten and pooped out from the cat-like animal, civet. Bring your friends back a shitty present, literally. Very satisfying coffee.