Imagine yourself waking up to the gentle lapping of waves against the shore, the sun casting its golden rays over lush green rice terraces. Welcome to Bali, an island paradise with a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and endless adventure. From serene beaches and vibrant temples to thrilling water sports, there are many of the best things to do in Bali to make the most of your trip. Whatever your age or interests, whether you are traveling to Bali with family, friends, or alone, you will find a buffet of various exciting things to do.
With its treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural wonders, and modern amenities, Bali is a joy to visit. It’s an excellent destination for budgets of all sizes and is perfect for those searching for outdoor adventures. From the heart of Ubud to the vibrant streets of Seminyak, here are the top 10 things to do in Bali that guarantee a memorable tropical experience.
10 Things To Do in Bali For Your Tropical Adventure
Visit The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud
A visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest is one of the best things to do in Bali if you want to combine nature, culture, and wildlife. Located in the heart of the Ubud, this forest sanctuary is home to over 700 monkeys. Beyond the playful primates, you will also find ancient temples, stone carvings, and towering trees, creating a mystical atmosphere to enjoy this unique experience. Besides watching playful monkeys, you can also swing through canopies or wander through the ancient temples covered in moss.
- Where to Do it: Ubud, Monkey Forest Road
- When To Do it: Open daily from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm
- Fees: IDR 80,000 for adults and IDR 60,000 for children
Explore The Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Famous for their jaw-dropping beauty, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces are one of the top things to do in Ubud. The emerald-green fields cascading down the hill offer the perfect opportunity to take stunning photos. You can also stroll through the terrace or enjoy a refreshing coconut drink at one of the nearby cafes while soaking in the views. Moreover, you can also purchase woodwork ornaments and handicrafts from the local shops.
- Where to Do it: Tegallalang Village, North of Ubud
- When To Do It: Open daily, but to avoid crowds and heat, it’s better to visit early in the morning.
- Fees: IDR 25,000 for entrance.
Surf at Kuta Beach
For water sports lovers, catching waves at Kuta Beach is one of the must-do Bali activities. Known for its vibrant energy, Kuta is the ideal place for both beginner and advanced surfers. The wide, sandy beach also offers plenty of space for sunbathing and people-watching. Just visit this beach in Bali and enjoy the pristine views of the sun setting along the horizon.
- Where to Do it: Kuta Beach, South Bali
- When To Do it: The best surf season is from May to October
- Fees: Entry is free, but you must rent a surfboard hourly.
Discover Uluwatu Temple and Its Cliffside Views
Perched on a towering cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu temple is one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks. Not only is the view from the top breathtaking, but the temple also hosts nightly Kecak Fire dance performances that tell the story of Ramayana. The performance starts at 6:00 pm and costs around 1,50,000 IDR per adult. It’s one of the best places to catch the sunset and admire the coastline, making it one of the best things to do in Bali.
- Where to Do it: Uluwatu, Bukit Peninsula
- When To Do It: Open daily from 7:00 am to 07:00 pm | You can visit around 5:00 pm to catch the sunset.
- Fees: IDR 50,000 for temple entry.
Chase Waterfalls at Sekumpul
If you are an adventure seeker, visiting Sekumpul Waterfalls should be your Bali things to do list. Nestled deep in the rainforest jungle, it is around 3 times the height of the Banyumala. You can visit this waterfall on a day trip to Sekumpul from Ubud, which is roughly 2 hours drive one way. You have to walk from the car park to the viewpoint of the Sekumpul Waterfall. You can hike down the waterfall’s base from here, enjoy the other waterfalls, and take some epic photos.
- Where to Do it: Sekumpul Village, North Bali
- When To Do It: Open daily, and visit early in the morning to avoid the heat.
- Fees: IDR 25,000 for entrance plus an optional fee for a guide fee.
Visit the Tirta Empul Water Temple
One of the most spiritually significant places on the island, Tirta Empul, is a water temple where locals and tourists come to participate in a purification ritual. You will get the chance to bathe in the holy waters, which are said to cleanse the body and soul, which is highly recommended. This temple visit provides a glimpse into Balinese Hindu culture, making it one of the best things to do in Bali for those interested in local traditions. If you are interested in entering the pools, there are sarongs to rent at the temple.
- Where to Do it: Tampaksiring, near Ubud
- When To Do it: Open from 07:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Fees: IDR 50,000
Explore Seminyak’s Trendy Beaches and Nightlife
For those craving a more modern vibe, things to do in Seminyak should be included in your Bali itinerary. This beach town has trendy bars, chic beach clubs, and stylish boutiques. Spend the day lounging at Double Six Beach or Potato Head Beach Club and experience the lively nightlife that Seminyak is famous for when the sun goes down.
- Where to Do it: Seminyak, South Bali
- When To Do It: Beach clubs are best during the late afternoon for sunset & nightlife starts after 09:00 pm.
- Fees: Beaches are free for entry, and clubs might have entry charges that vary from place to place.
Take A Sunrise Hike Up Mount Batur
If you are looking for a challenge with a rewarding payoff, then a sunrise hike up to Mount Batur is one of the best things to do in Bali. Starting in the early hours, you will hike through the dark to reach the summit just in time to watch the sunrise over the surrounding mountain and lake. It’s a magical experience for both nature and adventure lovers. Mount Batur sits close to Mount Agung, two of which are the most critical spiritual locations on the island.
- Where to Do it: Mount Batur, Kintamani
- When To Do It: Early morning, around 3:00 am, to catch the sunrise.
- Fees: there are several private tours that you can book online, which costs around IDR 400,000 to 600,000
Relax at Nusa Dua Beach
If relaxation is more your style, then heading to Nusa Dua Beach is a must on your list of things to do in Bali. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sands, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a peaceful day in the ocean. Nusa Dua is also home to some of Bali’s best luxury resorts. The best part is that you can snorkel, swim near the coastline, and enjoy the glass-bottom boat rides.
- Where to Do it: Nusa Dua, South Bali
- When To Do it: Open all-day
- Fees: Free Entry
Go White Water Rafting down The Ayung River
Experience the thrill of white water rafting on Bali’s scenic Ayung River. As you navigate the rapids, enjoy stunning jungle views, waterfalls, and hidden carvings on the riverbanks. This adventure offers an exhilarating mix of excitement and beauty, suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike. You’ll hop in a raft with up to 6 other people and go down the river for about 10 km. During the dry season, most rapids are class II and III (out of six), making it a good activity for most ages and experience levels.
- Where to Do it: Ayung River, located near Ubud, Bali,
- When To Do it: during the dry season (April to October) | Tours are available from 08:30 am to 02:00 pm
- Fees: Price ranges from IDR 340,000 to 490,000 IDR
Ready To Book Your Bali Adventure
Bali offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, relaxation, and nightlife, making it an ideal destination for every kind of traveler. Whether you are exploring the things to do in Ubud or enjoying the vibrant energy of Seminyak, Bali has something that will captivate your heart with its unique and memorable experiences. Don’t wait to experience this tropical paradise. Book your Bali tour package with JustWravel today and embark on an unforgettable journey.
FAQs
What are the things couples should do in Bali?
Bali is a romantic paradise for couples seeking unforgettable experiences. Start with a relaxing day at one of the island’s beautiful beaches, like Jimbaran or Nusa Dua, perfect for lounging and enjoying the ocean views. A private beachside dinner under the stars offers a truly intimate experience. Couples can also explore the island’s stunning temples, like Uluwatu Temple, where the sunset views are breathtaking, followed by a traditional Kecak dance performance.
What are the best things young adults can do in Bali?
Young adults visiting Bali can enjoy an exciting mix of adventure, culture, and nightlife. Start with water sports like surfing at Kuta or Canggu Beach, or try diving and snorkeling at Nusa Penida, where you can swim with manta rays. Bali’s lively beach clubs, such as Potato Head Beach Club or Finns Beach Club, are perfect for chilling out, enjoying cocktails, and watching the sunset. Explore Ubud’s vibrant art markets and cafes, or take a cycling tour through the rice terraces. Adventure seekers can try white-water rafting on the Ayung River or zip-lining through the jungle.
What are the things to do in Seminyak?
Seminyak is a trendy and upscale area of Bali known for its luxury and vibrant atmosphere. Begin your day by relaxing at chic beach clubs like Ku De Ta or Potato Head, where you can sip cocktails and enjoy the ocean breeze. Seminyak is also a shopper’s paradise with stylish boutiques and local art galleries. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience at one of the luxurious wellness centers. When evening falls, dine at one of the gourmet restaurants, such as La Lucciola or Metis.
Suggest some things to do in Ubud, Bali.
Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali and offers a mix of serene nature and rich traditions. Start your day by visiting the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces, where you can take scenic walks through lush greenery. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is another must-visit, where you can observe playful monkeys in a natural forest setting. Ubud is also known for its wellness retreats, so treat yourself to a yoga session or a Balinese spa experience.
What are the things you should do with kids in Bali?
Bali is a fantastic destination for family vacations, offering plenty of kid-friendly activities. Visit Bali Safari and Marine Park, where children can see animals up close and enjoy a fun elephant ride. Waterbom Bali in Kuta is a waterpark paradise with slides and lazy rivers that are perfect for a family day out. The Bali Zoo and Bali Bird Park are great spots for kids to interact with animals and learn about wildlife.
Book your Bali tour package with JustWravel today and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of Bali.