Discover the Best Things to Do in Bali: Top Activities and Attractions

Catch a Wave

Surfing is a quintessential Bali activity, and Kuta Beach is one of the best places to start. With numerous board rental stands and surf schools, even beginners can enjoy the waves. For more experienced surfers, the Bukit Peninsula and Canggu’s Old Man’s Beach offer world-class breaks. Local surf guides like Baliboarders can help you find the best spots.

Practice Yoga

Yoga in Bali is a transformative experience. Ubud is a global center for yoga, with studios like The Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive offering a variety of classes. Canggu is also becoming a popular spot for yoga enthusiasts, with numerous studios and retreats available.

Hang Out with Macaques

Ubud’s Monkey Forest is a famous attraction where you can interact with playful macaques. For a less crowded experience, visit Sangeh Monkey Forest. Remember to avoid showing your teeth, as macaques see grinning as a sign of aggression.

Explore West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers. This park is home to diverse wildlife, including the rare Bali starling and ebony leaf monkeys. Stay at The Menjangan for a unique experience with views of jungle-clad hills and flocks of flying foxes.

Catch the Sunrise on Mount Batur

Mount Batur offers one of the best sunrise views in Bali. The trek to the 1,717-meter summit starts early, around 3 AM, but the breathtaking sunrise and views of Mount Agung and Mount Rinjani make it worth the effort. For a quieter experience, consider climbing the remoter Batukaru.

Swim Under a Waterfall

Bali’s waterfalls are spectacular. Tegenungan Waterfall is easily accessible from Ubud, while Nungnung Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a more secluded experience. The stunning Sekumpul Waterfall features a series of seven cascades and is perfect for a refreshing dip.

Explore Villages on a Scooter

Rent a scooter to explore Bali’s villages and scenic landscapes. Companies like BaliMotion.pro and Bali4Rider offer well-maintained scooters with insurance. Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bali’s picturesque roads and rural hideaways.

Hit the Trails Around Sidemen Village

Sidemen Village is a beautiful, rural area perfect for hiking. The journey from Ubud to Sidemen is a scenic adventure, passing through ravines and terraced rice fields. Sidemen’s serene valleys and forests offer a glimpse of Bali’s traditional way of life.

Dive or Snorkel Balinese Reefs

Bali’s north coast is a diver’s paradise. Menjangan Island, off the coast of West Bali National Park, is renowned for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Amed and Pemuteran also offer excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Bali Hai Diving Adventures provides trips to top dive spots like Manta Point near Nusa Lembongan.

Walk with Pink Buffalo

In West Bali, you can encounter unique pink buffalo. Paddy-farmer Nengah Sudana’s Pink Buffalo Walks offer insight into traditional rice farming and the island’s irrigation systems. This eco-friendly tour is a fascinating way to learn about Bali’s agricultural heritage.

Relax at a Beach Club

Bali’s beach clubs are legendary, and Canggu has some standout options near Masmara Resort. La Brisa, located on Echo Beach, offers stunning ocean views, rustic decor, and delicious cocktails. Additionally, The Lawn and Finns Beach Club are popular spots for lounging by the pool, enjoying sunset drinks, and soaking up the laid-back vibes. While Seminyak’s iconic Potato Head Beach Club is worth a visit, Canggu’s beach clubs provide a more relaxed, local experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Visit a Sea Temple

Bali’s sea temples are iconic. Uluwatu Temple, perched on a clifftop, offers breathtaking views of the ocean. Tanah Lot Temple is another must-visit, especially at sunset. For a more serene experience, explore Rambut Siwi Temple with its tranquil beach views.

Shoot the Rapids in Ayung Valley

White-water rafting in Ayung Valley is an exhilarating way to explore Bali’s jungle landscapes. Mason Adventures offers rafting trips combined with cycling tours through forests, rice fields, and traditional villages.

Cruise Among the World’s Most Vibrant Fishing Fleet

At Perancak Inlet on Bali’s west coast, you can see a colorful fleet of fishing boats. This off-the-beaten-path location is a photographer’s dream, with vibrant boats and local fishermen at work.

Learn Indonesian Cooking

Take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Indonesian cuisine. Classes often include market visits and hands-on cooking lessons. Prepare and enjoy dishes like nasi goreng and satay, gaining culinary skills to impress your friends back home.

Leave Your Heart at the Top of the ‘Smashdown’ Waterslide

Waterbom Bali is a popular water park with thrilling slides and attractions. The park’s new section includes additional slides, a lagoon pool, and dining venues, making it a perfect spot for family fun.

Meet Bali’s Feathered Population on a Bird Walk

Bali is home to nearly 350 bird species. Join a bird walk with expert guides like Sumadi from Bali Bird Walks to discover the island’s avian diversity. These walks also offer insights into Bali’s paddy-farming system and traditional life.

Sip on Sundowners at Rock Bar

Rock Bar Bali, located on dramatic cliffs in Jimbaran, is perfect for sunset cocktails. This stylish venue, part of Ayana Resort, is known for its chic atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Remember to dress smartly to gain entry.

Stroll the Campuhan Ridge Walk

Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud offers a scenic trail with beautiful views. For a quieter alternative, try the Subak Sok Wayah trail, which winds through rice fields and charming cafes. This walk changes with the seasons, offering a new experience each time.