Bali Bucket List: 36 Awesome Things To Do!
Last Updated: November 4 2024
Known to many as the ‘Island of the Gods’, it’s no surprise that this striking destination attracts over a million tourists every year! Boasting pristine beaches, breathtaking natural landscapes, and an intriguing culture, there aren’t many places quite like Bali.
Located in Indonesia, it’s one of the of the Lesser Sunda Islands so naturally, offers a tropical climate throughout the year. The great thing about Bali is that it really does have something for everyone, which is why we’ve put together this epic Bali bucket list.
Whether you’re looking to dive with manta rays, take a cooking class, or visit beautiful temples, you won’t be short of things to do. This guide is going to take you through the very best things to do in Bali, and why you should include them in your itinerary! So let’s dive straight in.
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Adventurous Things to Do in Bali
First of all, if you’re a thrill-seeker then you’re going to be over the moon. You’ll find a wide variety of exhilarating activities to get involved with in Bali; either land-based, water-based, or otherwise. Thanks to its clear waters, snorkelling and scuba diving are two of the most popular options!
You’ve also got plenty of other awesome activities available including white-water rafting, parasailing, surfing, and hiking. Many people opt to go on ATV tours too as there are several adventure routes available. No matter what you’re after, there will be something to your liking.
Cultural Things to Do in Bali
Bali has a fascinating culture and no trip to the island is complete without embracing it. One of the best ways to do this is by visiting the local temples and there are plenty of them! From Uluwatu to Ubud, many of Bali’s stunning towns and villages feature striking temples.
During your time here, you’ll also want to attend some of the island’s traditional dances. This includes the Kecak Fire Dance and the Barong Dance! Not only that, but Bali features plenty of cultural classes where you can learn how to cook traditional dishes and make Balinese Art.
Relaxing Things to Do in Bali
If you’re after an action-packed itinerary then you’re in luck. You won’t run out of things to do in Bali! However, sometimes it’s just as important to relax. This beautiful island is full of luxury spas, pristine beaches, and fantastic beach clubs, so you’ll have plenty of options.
One of the best ways to relax is to opt for a traditional Balinese Massage. If you’ve got the time, you’ll also want to spend a day at Finn’s Beach Club. Here you can relax in an infinity pool, get food delivered right to your sunbed, and listen to live music.
Places to Visit from Bali
Thanks to Bali’s location in Indonesia, there are plenty of fantastic opportunities for onward travel. You can either sort all the logistics yourself or head out on one of the many available tours. Some of these locations can be visited on a day trip, while others will require at least 2-3 days.
Popular trips from Bali include the Nusa Islands, the Gili Islands, and Lombok. In terms of the Nusa Islands, you’ve got three to choose from; Ceningan, Lembongan, and Penida. There are also three Gili Islands; Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan.
The Perfect Bali Bucket List: A Quick Summary
The Monkey Forest | Bali Swings | Bukit Cinta |
Lempuyang Temple | Hanging Gardens of Bali | Banyumala Waterfall |
Tegalalang Rice Terraces | Tegenungan Waterfall | The Campuhan Ridge Walk |
Handara Gate | Tanah Lot Temple | Try out some Watersports |
Uluwatu Temple | Tirta Gangga | Make Jewellery in Bali |
Mount Batur | Balinese Cooking Class | Ulun Danu Beratan Temple |
Releasing Sea Turtles | Relax on Bali’s Beaches | Visit a Coffee Plantation |
Nusa Penida | Toya Devasya Hot Springs | Learn to Surf |
Kecak Fire Dance | Taman Soekasada Ujung | Waterbom Bali |
The Gili Islands | Pura Tirta Empul | West Bali National Park |
Try Nasi Goreng | Finn’s Beach Club | Gitgit Waterfall |
Swim with Manta Rays | Nusa Lembongan | Stay in a Luxury Villa |
What to Include on Your Bali Bucket List
1. The Monkey Forest
- Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar
- Suggested Tour: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary Ticket and Guided Tour
- Where to Stay: Ubud Bungalow
The Ubud Monkey Forest is a must for any Bali bucket list! Covering an area of 12.5 hectares and home to over 1,200 Balinese Long Tail Monkeys, this isn’t a place you want to miss.
Throughout this incredible destination, there are paved trails that weave their way through the forest. Along the way, you’ll get to appreciate ruined ancient temples, intricate Balinese statues, and lush natural scenery.
However, the highlight has to be the monkeys of course! Just make sure you keep all belongings safely tucked away, as they’re known to steal valuables. Luckily, there are lots of local guides and wardens scattered throughout the forest to help you.
2. Admire the views from Lempuyang Temple
- Location: Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem
- Suggested Tour: Besakih Temple & Lempuyang Temple Gates of Heaven Tour
- Where to Stay: Villa di Bias
Lempuyang Temple (or Pura Lempuyang Luhur) is honestly one of our favourite places to visit in Bali. It’s situated in East Bali and is one of the island’s oldest temples. To reach the temple, you’ll need to climb up over 1,700 steps but the views from the top are entirely worth it.
Thanks to its location at 1,175 metres (3,854 feet), you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This includes the towering Mount Agung which you can view right through the temple’s ‘Gates of Heaven’.
This place gets extremely busy so you’ll want to arrive here early (or later on in the afternoon). This way, you’ll have a better chance of avoiding the crowds.
3. Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Ubud
- Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar
- Suggested Tour: Best of Ubud – All-Inclusive Tour
- Where to Stay: Padi Bali Eco Villas
Tegalalang Rice Terraces (sometimes spelt Tegallalang) are a highlight of any Bali trip! Here, you’ll find some of the island’s most scenic landscapes. So much so, that Tegalalang has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Boasting lush rice paddies and Balinese irrigation systems, the beauty here is unparalleled. First of all, you’ll want to admire the vistas from the scenic overlook. Then, make sure you take a wander down to the terraces themselves.
If you’ve got a drone, then this is the place to fly it. The aerial views above the rice terraces are like nothing you’ve ever seen, and it’s fascinating to see them from a completely different angle!
4. Take a photograph at Handara Gate
- Location: Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng
- Suggested Tour: Northern Charm: Lake Bratan, Handara Gate, Waterfall & Swing
- Where to Stay: Pondanu Cabins By The Lake
Located within Handara Golf and Resort is Handara Gate! If you’ve got Instagram, then you’ve probably already seen this iconic place over a dozen times. In fact, Handara Gate is one of the most photographed locations in Bali.
This traditional Hindu Gate acts as an entrance to the golf course and it’s a superb attraction. Aside from the intricate design of the gate itself, you’ve also got the lush mountain backdrop which only adds to the magic of this place.
Thanks to its popularity, you now have to pay to take a picture in front of Handara Gate. However, it’s only a small amount so it’s certainly worth a visit.
5. Uluwatu Temple
- Location: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency
- Suggested Tour: Uluwatu Temple, Kecak Dance, and Jimbaran Bay
- Where to Stay: Three Monkeys Villas
Uluwatu Temple has to be included on your Bali bucket list! It’s honestly one of our favourite places in the whole of Bali, and there are so many reasons for this.
First of all, it’s a great place to appreciate the island’s culture as it’s considered to be one of Bali’s ‘spiritual pillars’. While here, you can appreciate a traditional Balinese Kecak Dance and ancient sculptures.
Secondly, Uluwatu Temple is situated on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. If you’re lucky, you might even get to spot turtles swimming in the waters below you as you walk along the path to the temple. Just beware of the monkeys!
6. Hike up Mount Batur
- Location: Bangli Regency, Bali
- Suggested Tour: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike and Natural Hot Spring
- Where to Stay: Batur Panorama
Mount Batur is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia and is 1,717 metres (5,633 ft) at its highest point. The first recorded eruption was back in 1804, while the most recent was in the year 2000.
For the best experience of this impressive volcano, you’ll want to hike up Mount Batur for sunrise. To reach the top, you’ll need to allow at least 1.5-2 hours. Then make sure you spend plenty of time at the top appreciating the epic vistas.
You can hike Mount Batur without a guide, although having someone experienced with you is always a bonus. However, if you’re on a budget, then you can save a lot of cash by doing it solo! New rules are currently in the process of being released about hiking up mountains in Bali, so you’ll want to keep an eye on those.
7. Release baby sea turtles
- Location: Jl. Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung
- Where to Stay: Kuta Puri Bungalows, Villas, and Resort
This was undoubtedly one of our favourite activities in Bali. In Kuta, you’ll come across the Bali Sea Turtle Society which is a charity that protects turtles through relocating and protecting the eggs, among other projects.
What’s special about this society, is that you can actually release baby sea turtles once the eggs have hatched. This is a magical experience and one that needs to be included on any Bali bucket list.
On their Facebook page, they notify followers of release days and the time you’ll need to be at the society building. The Bali Sea Turtle Society can be found along Kuta’s seafront. You won’t miss it, as there’s a large statue of a sea turtle right outside.
8. Take a trip out to Nusa Penida
- Location: Klungkung Regency, Bali
- Suggested Tour: Nusa Penida Small Group Tour by Speed Boat
- Where to Stay: Kelingking Mesari Villa and Spa
Nusa Penida is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful locations in Indonesia. Boasting pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and Hindu temples, this isn’t a destination that you want to miss.
Some of the most popular locations in Nusa Penida include Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong. If you’ve got the time, then you’ll want to visit Diamond Beach and Teletubbies Hill too.
For those who are short of time, you can take a day trip out to Nusa Penida. However, for the best experience, try to spend at least 2-3 days on this island. You can hire a scooter to get around and that way, you can create your own itinerary.
9. Watch a Kecak Fire Dance
- Location: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency
- Suggested Tour: Uluwatu Kecak and Fire Dance Show Entry Ticket
- Where to Stay: Uluwatu Jungle Villa
Watching a Kecak Fire Dance is one of the things you just have to do in Bali! Although the dance seems like an ancient tradition, it was only created in the 1930s. It’s typically performed by over a dozen dancers and involves a unique routine and fire.
There are several locations on the island where you can watch this traditional dance. This includes Tanah lot, Batubulan, and GWK Cultural Park.
However, the best place for it has to be Uluwatu Temple! The dance takes place daily at this temple, and you’ll get to appreciate the epic sunset in the background. To ensure your visit, we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance.
10. Visit the Gili Islands
- Location: Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan
- Suggested Tour: Private Snorkeling Trip
- Where to Stay: The Beach House Resort – Gili Trawangan
There are three Gili Islands in total and each one can easily be accessed from Bali by ferry. There’s Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan, and each island offers something unique.
If you’re after a relaxing getaway then Gili Meno is the best option as it’s the most remote of the three. Gili Air is another relatively quiet island and offers fantastic snorkelling opportunities. Lastly, Gili Trawangan is the party island so is perfect for rowdy backpackers!
No matter which one you choose, you’ll be treated to white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and plenty of charm. Like with Nusa Penida, you’ll want to spend a couple of days on whichever island you choose.
11. Try Nasi Goreng
- Location: Anywhere!
If you’re a big foodie then no trip to Bali is complete without trying Nasi Goreng. This Indonesian dish can be found all throughout the island and it’s the perfect option for backpackers.
Why you ask? Well, it’s one of the cheapest meals you’ll come across as you can find it for as little as 10,000 IDR (£0.50). For the most authentic version, check out the local warungs.
Nasia Goreng is a fried rice dish that’s typically made with meat and vegetables. It’s then often served with salad, a fried egg, and Indonesian crackers. Honestly, this is one of our favourite dishes to date, and we regularly cook it at home!
12. Swim with manta rays in Nusa Penida
- Location: Klungkung Regency, Bali
- Suggested Tour: Swim with Manta Rays in Nusa Penida
- Where to Stay: Penida Bay Village
If there’s one activity you’ll want to include on your Bali bucket list it’s this! Swimming with manta rays is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and there’s no better place to do it than Nusa Penida.
Manta rays can be spotted here all year around which is why it’s such a popular diving and snorkelling spot. There are a couple of places on the island that give you a higher chance of seeing them including Manta Point, Manta Bay, and Crystal Bay.
Day trips run from Bali and these are a great option if you’re short of time. Just don’t forget your action camera, as this is an experience you’ll want to remember forever!
13. Try out one of the ‘Bali Swings’
- Location: Bali Swing, Jl. Dewi Saraswati No.7, Bongkasa Pertiwi, Kec. Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung
- Suggested Tour: Ubud: Jungle Swing Private Tour
- Where to Stay: Villa D’Uma
There are plenty of awesome swings throughout the island, although the most popular is Bali Swing. It’s located just outside of Ubud and is home to several swings, so you can take your pick.
You’ll also find some fantastic swings located at Wanagiri Hidden Hills, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, and Terrace River. You’ve also got Alas Harum which is one of our personal favourites as they have a couple’s swing. This way, you can experience the thrill with your significant other or travel buddy.
The prices of each swing differ depending on its location and popularity, so you’ll want to check this in advance. This will allow you to work within your budget!
14. Relax at The Hanging Gardens of Bali
- Location: Buahan, Payangan 80571, Kabupaten Gianyar
- Where to Stay: Hanging Gardens of Bali
If you need some relaxation then check out the Hanging Gardens of Bali. This gorgeous resort is located just North of Ubud and is nestled within Bali’s exotic jungles.
For those who have the cash, this is one of the area’s most luxurious hotels. Several jungle villas boast their own private infinity pool but if you’re not staying here, simply head to the on-site spa.
There are a variety of treatments available including facials, massages, and flower baths, so you can opt for whatever you fancy. Through ancient techniques and local ingredients, both your body and mind will feel truly rejuvenated.
15. Visit Tegenungan Waterfall
- Location: Kemenuh, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency
- Suggested Tour: Ubud – Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest Private Tour
- Where to Stay: Kailash Bali
In our opinion, Tegenungan Waterfall is a must for any Bali bucket list! It’s one of the most popular waterfalls on the island and it’s not hard to see why. It’s located within a lush forest, and the natural beauty here is unparalleled.
Once you reach Tegenungan, you can either head for a dip in the pool below the waterfall or take photographs from the main viewpoints. Either way, don’t rush your time here!
To reach the waterfall, it’s just a short walk from the car park. Although pleasant on the way down, walking back up the endless stairs can feel somewhat of a challenge in the heat.
16. Walk over to Tanah Lot Temple
- Location: Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82121
- Suggested Tour: Bali: Tanah Lot Temple Guided Tour
- Where to Stay: Natya Hotel Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one of the most important landmarks in Bali and is a place not to be missed. It’s located on top of an outcrop just off the coastline and is a 22 km (13.7 miles) drive from the town of Kuta.
The history behind this temple dates back to 1489 when a high priest dedicated the site to Baruna; a sea god. Even today, it still plays an important role in Balinese culture, and regular dances are held here.
It’s important to note that the main temple is closed off to visitors as it’s purely for pilgrims. However, the views alone are enough to make anyone want to visit, and you can explore other areas of the site.
17. Tirta Gangga
- Location: Jalan Raya Abang Desa Adat Jl. Raya Tirta Gangga, Ababi, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem
- Suggested Tour: Bali: Full-Day Instagram Highlights Tour
- Where to Stay: Villa di Bias
Tirta Gangga is another of our favourite places in Bali and there are so many reasons for this. Firstly, this royal water garden is undeniably beautiful. It’s located on the slope of the iconic Mount Agung and is home to 1.2 hectares of landscaped gardens, ponds, and fountains.
The highlight of this place has to be the golden koi that you can find swimming in the water gardens. When we visited, you could even pay for fish pellets and feed them. This makes for some awesome photographs, so don’t miss out on the experience.
For the best experience, try to get here relatively early as this place can get pretty busy!
18. Take a Balinese Cooking Class
- Location: A wide variety of locations
- Suggested Tour: Authentic Cooking Class in a Local Village
- Where to Stay: The Pesaren Ubud
Bali and Indonesia as a whole are home to some of the most delicious cuisine on the planet. Thanks to the island’s Chinese, Indian, and Malay influences, the food here is extremely distinctive, with its wide variety of spices and flavours.
There’s no better way to appreciate Balinese food than by taking a cooking class. This way, you’ll get to learn how to cook authentic dishes so you can bring a bit of the island back home.
Some of the cooking classes in Bali will include a visit to a local market, which is always a bonus. This way you’ll get to purchase fresh, local ingredients for your dishes.
19. Relax on Bali’s beaches
- Location: Everywhere across Bali
- Suggested Tour: Full-Day Private White Sand Beaches and Sunset Tour
Bali is famous for its beautiful beaches! In fact, some of the world’s best beaches are found here so don’t leave them off your itinerary. Where you visit will all depend on what you’re after.
The likes of Kuta, Canggu, and Seminyak all offer beaches, but these tend to be crowded. In our opinion, they’re also not as scenic. For the best experience, you’ll want to head down to the South Coast of Bali (Uluwatu in particular).
Here, you’ll find a variety of beautiful beaches including Padang Padang, Melasti, Suluban, and Nyang Nyang. Boasting dramatic scenery, pristine white sands, and turquoise waters, the beaches in the South of Bali are certainly worth a visit.
20. Spend some time at Toya Devasya Hot Springs
- Location: Jalan Puri Bening (STA), Toya Bungkah Kintamani,
- Where to Stay: The Lava Bali Villa and Hot Spring
If you’ve got the chance then don’t miss out on a visit to Toya Devasya! It’s a gorgeous wellness resort that features four natural hot springs, some of which overlook the iconic Mount Batur.
The heated waters here are known for their minerals making them the perfect place to relax. In Kintamani, you’ll find a variety of awesome activities including hiking, cycling, and canoeing. After doing any one of these, head to Toya Devasya so you can relax and recharge in the hot springs!
Not to mention, the views from this place are spectacular so definitely spend some time here if you can.
21. Gitgit Waterfall
- Location: Jl. Raya Bedugul – Singaraja, Gitgit, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng
- Suggested Tour: Private Full-Day West Bali Tour with Waterfall Visit
- Where to Stay: Shanti Natural Panorama View Hotel
If you’re still wondering what to include in your Bali bucket list, then head to Gitgit Waterfall. Surrounded by lush forest, Gitgit Waterfall is the highest waterfall on the island. You’ll find it in North Bali.
This waterfall is one of the best natural tourist attractions in the area. It has a height of 48 metres (157 feet) so is an imposing sight. Easy to access, there are actually five different waterfalls to take a look at in Gitgit.
The waterfalls you can find in Gitgit are called Colek Pamor, Ceburan Dukuh, Gitgit Twin, Campuhan, and of course, Gitgit Waterfall.
22. Taman Soekasada Ujung
- Location: Ujung Water Palace, Tumbu, Karangasem, Karangasem Regency
- Suggested Tour: Bali Instagram Private Tour: Selection of the best spots
- Where to Stay: Two Smiling Buddhas
You have to make sure Taman Soekasada Ujung is on your Bali to-do list if you want to see the very best of what this island has to offer!
Also known as Ujung Water Palace, Taman Soekasada Ujung was once a palace in Karangasem Regency. Although it may now be a former palace, that doesn’t stop it from being absolutely incredible.
Located just 5 km away from Amlapura, Ujung Water Palace is simply breathtaking. It has three large pools, vibrant fauna, and awesome views of the nearby landscapes. This is a great spot to take photos so don’t forget your camera!
23. Pura Tirta Empul
- Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80552
- Suggested Tour: Best of Central Bali: Waterfall, Elephant Cave & Rice Fields
- Where to Stay: Pinggala Villa Ubud
The next place on our Bali bucket list is Pura Tirta Empul. This place is situated in central Bali in the village of Manukaya so it’s not too far away from Tampakisiring. Also referred to as Tirta Empul Temple, this incredible destination is home to one of the most important temple ponds in Bali.
In fact, the name ‘Pura Tirta Empul’ is Balinese for Holy Springs. This temple has a fresh spring that Balinese Hindus believe to be holy, so it’s a must-visit.
Locals travel to the temple for ritual purification to cleanse their souls, so it’s a very special place. As long as you follow the rules, you can cleanse your body and soul too!
24. Spend a day at Finn’s Beach Club
- Location: Jl. Pantai Berawa No.99, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung
- Where to Stay: Dana Homestay
You’ll find plenty of crazy things to do in Bali, but sometimes it’s just as important to relax. As far as relaxing is concerned, there’s no better place to visit in Bali than Finn’s Beach Club.
Finn’s claims to be the best beach club in the world, and we can’t say that we disagree. Featuring four pools, five restaurants, nine bars, two swim-up bars, DJ set-ups, and more; Finn’s is an amazing place to kick back, relax, enjoy good food, sunbathe, and generally just enjoy a great afternoon by the sea.
Visiting Finn’s at night is one of the best things to do in Bali at night too!
25. Take a trip out to Nusa Lembongan
- Location: Klungkung Regency, Bali
- Suggested Tour: From Bali: 3 Snorkeling Spots Tour to Lembongan and Penida
- Where to Stay: Jenggala Hill
Nusa Lembongan isn’t actually found on the Bali mainland so it could be argued that it should be on an Indonesia bucket list instead. However, you would probably only visit Nusa Lembongan during a trip to Bali, as it’s so close.
Nusa Lembongan Island sits to the southeast of Bali. It’s a tropical island and one of the three islands that makes up the famous Nusa Penida district. The other two islands are Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida.
Exploring this island is a lot of fun! There’s lots of wildlife to see, enormous coral reefs to explore, stunning white sand beaches to wander along, and so much more.
26. Admire the views from Bukit Cinta
- Location: Abyandauh, Pangi Karangasem, Karangasem, Kec. Karangasem, Kabupaten Karangasem
- Where to Stay: GumiBali Villa
Although Bukit Cinta may not be one of the most famous locations on the island, it’s certainly a must for any Bali bucket list.
Bukit Cinta is a spectacular viewpoint that offers arguably the best views on the entire island. Best enjoyed at dawn, you can find the viewpoint in the Karangasem District. The closest town to here is Amlapura.
From this viewpoint, you’ll be treated to the most amazing views of Bali’s rice fields and the iconic Mount Agung. In our opinion, this stunning viewpoint sums up the island’s beauty perfectly. If you can time your visit at sunrise or sunset then even better!
27. Visit Banyumala Waterfall
- Location: Wanagiri, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency
- Suggested Tour: Northern Charm: Lake Bratan, Handara Gate, Waterfall & Swing
- Where to Stay: Kayukopi
No Bali bucket list is complete without visiting the island’s waterfalls. There are plenty to choose from but make sure you head to Banyumala Waterfall. It’s a twin waterfall and is one of the island’s most beautiful natural wonders!
Even though it’s incredibly scenic, Banyumala Twin Waterfall isn’t as popular compared to the more central falls on the island. It’s around a 1.5-hour drive from Ubud and then from the parking lot, it’s just a 20-minute walk.
You can visit these walls at any time of year, but beware of the trail during the wet season as it can get extremely slippery.
28. The Campuhan Ridge Walk
- Location: Kelusa, Payangan, Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar
- Suggested Tour: Best of Ubud Private Day Tour
- Where to Stay: Taman Indrakila
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a must for any Ubud bucket list! It’s a 9 km (5.6 miles) scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and tropical forests. You can easily find the location on Google Maps, and from there, the trail is incredibly easy to follow.
From experience, we can safely say that you’ll want to do this hike in the morning. We’ve walked it twice now, and somehow, we still haven’t learnt our lesson!
Luckily, along the way, there are several cafes and restaurants where you can grab a drink and something to eat.
29. Try out some Watersports
- Location: Tanjung Benoa
- Suggested Tour: Bali Water Sports Adventure
While in Bali, you need to try out some of the island’s watersports. You’ll find a variety of locations here that offer watersports, but Tanjung Benoa is certainly one of the best! It’s a small peninsula in the South of Bali that is often referred to as a ‘water sports playground’.
Some of the best watersports here include jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boats. While in Tanjung Benoa, you can also try out some other exhilarating activities such as sea walking, underwater scooters, and water jetpacks.
This part of Bali is also popular with scuba divers and snorkellers as the seas are calm and the waters are clear.
30. Make jewellery in Bali
- Location: GBE Silver Class, delodsema, Jl. Taman Gajah, Taro, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar
- Suggested Tour: Silver jewellery-making class in Ubud
- Where to Stay: Pondok Sebatu Eco Lodge
If you’re after a relaxing activity in Bali then go on a jewellery-making class! They usually last for around 3 hours and you’ll be taught how to make jewellery out of silver by a silversmith.
This traditional Balinese craft is a wonder to behold and you’ll get to take home the most precious souvenir of all – a silver piece of jewellery that you’ll have made yourself. Many people choose to make a ring (which is what we did), but you can also make a pendant or a small bracelet.
Before your tour, do some research and come up with a few simple designs. Generally, the silversmith will take a look at them and see whether they can be done!
31. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
- Location: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency
- Suggested Tour: North Bali: Sekumpul Waterfalls and Ulun Danu Temple Tour
- Where to Stay: Dedanau Hotel
Ulu Danu Beratan is undeniably one of Bali’s most beautiful temples. It’s located on the shores of Lake Beratan and is one of the most picturesque destinations across the whole island.
Ulu Danu Temple dates back to the 17th century and was built to honour the lake goddess of Dewi Danu and the trinity of Hindu gods (Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu). Thanks to the way it’s been built, it’s nicknamed the ‘Floating Temple’ as it seems to be afloat on the lake’s surface.
To appreciate the temple from a different view, you can head out on a motorized boat ride or a traditional Jukung outrigger.
32. Visit a coffee plantation
- Location: Satria Agrowisata, Lodtunduh, Ubud, Gianyar Regency
- Suggested Tour: Bali: Ubud Rice Terraces, Temples, and Volcano Day Trip
- Where to Stay: Villa Lestaru
When putting together a bucket list for Bali, visiting a coffee plantation may not be at the top of your list. However, it’s a unique experience as you’ll get to learn all about the production of local teas and coffees, and even try them for yourself!
We headed to Satria Agrowisata which gave us a whole selection of coffees and teas to try. Better yet, the sampler is free so it’s the perfect activity for those on a budget. However, you’ll want to make sure you give a good tip.
While in Bali, don’t forget to try Luwak Coffee – one of the most expensive coffees in the world!
33. Learn to surf
- Location: Legian, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung
- Suggested Tour: Legian Beach, Bali: Beginner or Intermediate Surf Lessons
- Where to Stay: AlamKulkul Boutique Resort
Although your Bali itinerary may be packed by now, try to leave some time free to take a surfing lesson or two. This incredible island is home to a wide variety of fantastic surfing spots. Some of the most popular locations include Uluwatu, Canggu, and Nusa Dua.
What’s great about Bali is that you’ll find several incredible surfing schools here. These are often the best places to learn as you’ll have a qualified instructor teaching you all the basics.
For those who have more experience, not to worry! Many surf schools and water sports centres offer lessons for every skill level, ranging from beginner to advanced.
34. Have fun at Waterbom Bali
- Location: Jl. Kartika Plaza, Tuban, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung
- Suggested Tour: 1-Day Instant Entry Ticket to Waterbom Bali
- Where to Stay: Puspa Ayu Villas & Apartments
If you’re looking for fun things to do then don’t leave this awesome water park off your Bali bucket list. Waterbom Bali is one of the island’s most popular attractions and you could easily spend all day here! It’s located in Kuta and is home to over a dozen water slides and games.
During one of our trips to Bali, we spent a whole day here. You can hit the water slides, relax in the Lazy River, and grab something to eat, as there are several awesome cafes and restaurants at the park. There’s even a swim-up bar if you fancy a drink!
Just make sure you wear plenty of sunscreen and keep hydrated throughout the day as there’s not much shade.
35. Search for deer in West Bali National Park
- Location: Sumber Klampok, Bali, Indonesia
- Where to Stay: NusaBay Menjangan
West Bali National Park isn’t a location that’s frequented much by travellers. It’s located in the North of Bali and is known for its crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and incredible biodiversity.
The national park covers a total land (and sea) area of 19,000 hectares and is home to over a hundred different wildlife species. As such, this isn’t a place you want to miss if you’re a nature lover. Especially, as West Bali National Park is home to the Menjangan Wild Deer.
To visit, you’ll need to check in at one of the park offices and get a permit. You’ll also need a guide with you at all times.
36. Stay in a luxury villa
- Location: Anywhere!
- Where to Stay: Villa Tawa
There are tons of amazing things to include on your Bali bucket list. However, you’ll also want a great base, where you can relax, and enjoy some downtime when you’re not out and about.
Luckily, you’ll have tons of options. Whether you’re after a cheap budget stay or a luxurious getaway, there’s something for everyone in Bali. For the best experience, we’d recommend going for one of the island’s luxurious villas, as they’re still incredibly cost-effective.
During our second trip to Bali, we stayed at the beautiful Villa Tawa. It’s a gorgeous boho-chic villa that sleeps up to 6 guests and boasts a private pool.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bali
What should you not miss in Bali?
There are so many fascinating places to visit in Bali but there are some that you just can’t miss. This includes the Ubud Monkey Forest, Mount Batur, Uluwatu Temple, and Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Don’t miss out on Lempuyang Temple or Tirta Gangga either.
If you’ve got enough time to visit some of the nearby islands, then head to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Gili Trawangan.
How many days do you need in Bali?
You could spend months exploring Bali and still not get to see everything that it has to offer. However, most of us don’t have unlimited time when it comes to holidays. For the best experience, allow at least 1-2 weeks to ensure you can make the most of your trip.
At an absolute minimum, you’ll want 5 days to see the highlights, although you’ll really be rushing your time if that’s all you can allow.
What is a good budget for Bali?
Bali is extremely cheap so you can really make the most of your money. For those on a budget, you can get by on $30-$50 if you’re staying in a hostel, eating cheap meals, and making the most of affordable attractions.
For a more luxurious stay, opt for a budget of $70-$90. This will get you a fantastic hotel and restaurant meals, although you may want to allow a higher budget if you’re looking to do a lot of activities.
How do you decide what to do in Bali?
Honestly, deciding what things to do in Bali can often feel like an impossible task. There’s so much on offer, so you’ll want to make a note of the attractions you want to prioritise. That way, you can plan the rest of your itinerary around those.
For those looking to learn about the culture, then prioritise Bali’s temples. If you’re simply looking to appreciate the island’s beauty, then check out some of the beaches and waterfalls.
What will you do in Bali?
So there you have it, the ultimate Bali Bucket List. This amazing island has so much to offer and for the best experience, you’ll want to spend at least two weeks here.
Home to breathtaking landscapes, delicious local cuisine, and friendly locals, Bali needs to be on your bucket list if it’s not already. There’s just so much to do here and best of all, it’s an extremely cheap place to visit.
Hopefully, this Bali travel guide has given you an idea of the best things to do on the island. Whether you’re looking to explore some of the many temples, relax on a beach, or learn to surf, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re heading to Bali here are some other guides you may find helpful:
- Hiring a Private Driver in Bali – The Ultimate Guide
- Visiting Kuta in Bali – The Ultimate Guide
- A Months Budget Travel Breakdown For Bali
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I’m one half of Acouplescalling. I'm passionate about all things travel and photography and I love sharing my experiences with others. I've seen a lot of the world already and I want to help as many people as I can do the same thing!