Top 10 Must-do Activities Of Bali

The Hub for every adventurer, a go to place for every vacation seeker and a place that pools every spiritual practitioner. A destination that appeals to families and retirees as much as it does to digital nomads and young hedonists. Bali is a one-stop destination for your “running away from Chaos” moments. Bali lives up to its reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful islands.

So the big question that arises is, what are the best things to do in Bali? We’ve pooled up a perfect mix of Bali’s best experiences, from very popular to the unexpectedly intriguing destinations we’ve covered all. This locally-curated list will turn a visit to the Island of the Gods into a heavenly vacation.

What to do in Bali in 2023

1. Ride on the Wave

Bali has a vast cuisine for a surfing nerd or even a beginner who’s looking forward to catching their first wave of life. The island is widely popular due to its world-class breaks that can test even the pros. Kuta Beach is a renowned  place to surf, with plenty of board-rental stands and top notch tutors lined up along the sand. The Bukit’s Dreamland surf break and Canggu’s legendary Old Man’s – are also great places to hone your skills. Baliboarders is a collection of experienced local surf teachers who can operate as tutors or guides anywhere on the island.

2. A ‘safari’ in the Wild West

Sadly, the last Bali tiger was shot over 80 years ago but regardless of the mishap still Bali’s far north-western tip boasts a jungle wilderness unlike the conventional notions such as being ‘overcrowded, overdeveloped’ Bali. West Bali National Park is still a secret spot. Magnificent Sambar deer gallop along the shallow lane and squirrels as big as cats jump through the canopy. You have an excellent chance of sightings of Bali starlings (one of the world’s rarest birds) and rare endemic ebony leaf monkeys. Also this place is a home to flocks of flying foxes and hornbills.

3. Witness the sunrise on Mount Batur

Bali is also known as ‘The Morning of the World’. The spellbinding tropical sunrises can be your natural healing and the 1,717-meter summit of Batur Volcano is arguably the best place on the island to witness it. Trekkers set out around 3am each morning for a spiritual retreat with the rising sun or maybe just for a plenty of cool Instagram pictures. This should be a part of your itinerary: the views of Mount Agung (Bali’s highest peak) and Mount Rinjani (on neighbouring Lombok) make this place so worthy of your time and attention.

4. Visit a Sea Temple

While Besakih is the mother temple for Balinese Hindus, Uluwatu Temple is probably the most famous religious drawcard for visitors. The truly breathtaking cliff top and the location above the wave-smashed reefs of one of the world’s most challenging surfing amphitheaters is everything that you need to mesmerize your heart, soul and body. 

Tanah Lot Temple also attracts sunset-chasers because of its spectacular location on a steep islet. If you’re willing to experience the splendour of Rambut Siwi Temple then head forward to the West. 

5. Bali’s Emptiest Beach

A sandy beach without a single human species. Yes we know that it sounds too good to be true. The Yeh Leh Beach in West Bali’s Jembrana province runs for nine unbroken miles eastwards from the low-key surf town of Medewi. This picturesque curve of wave-crashed volcanic sand – rarely sees more than a handful of local fishermen. There are a couple of lovely resorts here, in the form of perennial Bali favourite Puri Dajuma and the edgy new kid on the block Lost Lindenberg.

6. Unwind with Yoga and Wellness Retreats

Embrace Bali's soothing energy with yoga and wellness retreats. Ubud, in particular, is known for its yoga studios, meditation centers, and holistic healing practices. Ubud has become one of the world centres for yoga. Around Ubud you can find everything to extend your outstanding retreat. 

The Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive are battling it out for the title of Ubud’s premier yoga studio. Each has their dedicated practitioners, but you wouldn’t doubt your experience with either of the two brands. They’re both such well-reputed brands and they never compromise in offering the best facilities.

7. Stroll along Bali’s feathered population on a Bird Walk

This incredibly diverse island is home to almost 350 bird species. Despite the staggering pace of industrialization the paddies, forested canyons, and jungle temples of Ubud remain an important bird habitat. This walk will be a walk that you could reminisce even after a while of visiting Bali. The amazing collaboration with the tempestuous and prolific species of the bird, this place will be proved as an absolute out of body experience.

8. Experience Bali's Rice Terraces

Venture to the scenic rice terraces of Tegalalang, where emerald green fields create a mesmerizing landscape. Don’t miss out on a leisurely stroll through the terraces and also along the way learn about the traditional Subak irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage practice.

9. Swim beneath a waterfall

The tropical rainfall on Bali’s volcanic peaks creates a profusion of waterfalls as the island’s lifeblood makes its way down to the stepped paddy terraces. But these beauty spots are threatened by the collection of garbage. Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the most popular places to be in Bali. With the main drop crashing down from 80 metres, you’d be unwise to swim directly under this one.

10. Experience Bali's Festivals and Celebrations

Immerse yourself in Bali's vibrant culture by joining traditional festivals. Witness the grand Galungan and Kuningan celebrations, where streets come alive with colorful offerings and processions. Additionally, the Nyepi Day, or Bali's "Day of Silence," offers a unique experience of complete tranquility and reflection.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

What is the best time to visit Bali?

Bali's peak tourist season is from April to October when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, shoulder months like April, May, September, and October offer fewer crowds and more affordable rates while still enjoying favorable weather conditions.

Do I need a visa to visit Bali?

Most tourists visiting Bali do not require a visa for short stays. Citizens of many countries can enter Indonesia visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism purposes. However, it's essential to check the visa requirements specific to your nationality before traveling.

Can I exchange currency easily in Bali? 

Yes, currency exchange booths and banks are readily available in popular tourist areas. However, it's recommended to exchange money at reputable establishments to avoid scams or unfair rates.