18 Best Things to Do in Bali

Bali blends spiritual calm with tropical adventure. The Indonesian island gathers emerald rice terraces, clifftop temples, world-class surf, and a famously warm culture into a place that feels both relaxing and endlessly explorable. Whether you want yoga retreats, jungle treks, or beach days, the island delivers.

Here are 18 of the best things to do in Bali, grouped by theme so you can plan a trip that matches your pace and interests.

Temples and culture

Tanah Lot

This iconic sea temple perches on a rock just offshore, especially dramatic at sunset when waves crash around it. Arrive an hour before dusk and explore the cliffside paths nearby.

Uluwatu Temple

Set atop a sheer clifftop on the southern peninsula, Uluwatu offers stunning ocean views and a nightly Kecak fire dance performance. Watch out for the cheeky resident monkeys around your belongings.

Tirta Empul

At this holy water temple near Ubud, visitors can take part in a purification ritual at the spring-fed bathing pools. Bring a change of clothes and a sarong, which you can rent on site.

Ubud and its palace

Bali's cultural heart, Ubud, offers the Royal Palace, traditional dance shows, art markets, and countless cafes. It makes an ideal base for inland exploring.

Nature and adventure

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

These sculpted, emerald-green terraces north of Ubud are among Bali's most photographed sights. Go early to beat crowds and heat, and tip the farmers if you photograph their land.

Mount Batur sunrise trek

A pre-dawn hike up this active volcano rewards you with a spectacular sunrise above the clouds and a view over the caldera lake. Go with a licensed guide and bring a light jacket for the summit.

Sekumpul and Tibumana waterfalls

Bali's jungle hides dozens of waterfalls. Sekumpul in the north is the most majestic, while Tibumana near Ubud is gentler and easier to reach for a refreshing swim.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

This easy, scenic walking trail just outside Ubud winds along a green ridge between valleys. It is best at sunrise or late afternoon when the light is soft.

Bali Swing and jungle viewpoints

Around Ubud, jungle swings and nest platforms offer thrilling photo opportunities over the treetops and rivers. Choose a reputable operator with proper safety harnesses.

Beaches and surf

Seminyak and Canggu

These trendy coastal areas offer surf breaks for all levels, beach clubs, sunsets, and a buzzing cafe scene. Canggu is more laid-back and popular with digital nomads.

Uluwatu beaches

The southern peninsula hides dramatic, cliff-backed beaches like Padang Padang and Bingin, prized by surfers and beautiful for a swim when the tide allows.

Nusa Penida day trip

A fast boat from Sanur reaches this rugged island, home to the famous Kelingking cliff viewpoint and crystal-clear snorkelling spots. The roads are rough, so hire a driver.

Sanur

Calmer and more family-friendly, Sanur offers gentle swimming beaches, a long seafront path, and a relaxed pace ideal for a slower holiday.

Wellness, food, and extras

Yoga and wellness retreats

Ubud is a global yoga hub, with studios and retreats offering classes for all levels in serene jungle settings. Drop-in classes are widely available.

Balinese cooking class

Learn to make local dishes like nasi goreng and satay, often starting with a visit to a local market. It is a fun, hands-on way to understand the island's flavours.

Monkey Forest Sanctuary

This leafy temple complex in Ubud is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques. Keep food hidden and follow the staff's guidance around the animals.

Jatiluwih rice fields

For a quieter, UNESCO-listed alternative to Tegalalang, the sweeping Jatiluwih terraces offer peaceful walking trails and fewer crowds.

Practical tips

Bali is busiest and driest from April to October, the best months to visit, while the wetter season runs November to March. Hire a private driver or scooter to get around, as public transport is limited. Always wear a sarong at temples (often provided), carry small cash, and respect local customs. Many warungs and restaurants offer halal and vegetarian dishes, and the south has plenty of choice for Muslim travellers.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Bali?

Seven to ten days lets you combine Ubud's culture, the southern beaches, and a day trip to Nusa Penida without rushing. Five days is enough for a focused first visit.

Is Bali suitable for families?

Yes. Areas like Sanur and Nusa Dua offer calm beaches and resorts, while gentle waterfalls, rice fields, and cultural shows appeal to all ages.

What is the best area to stay?

Ubud suits nature and culture lovers, Seminyak and Canggu suit beach and nightlife seekers, and Sanur or Nusa Dua suit families wanting calm.

Bali rewards travellers who slow down to its rhythm. Pair a sunrise trek or temple visit with an unhurried afternoon by the sea, and you will quickly understand why so many visitors find it hard to leave.