Having spent the last three years hopping between Bali’s rice fields and beach towns, I’ve lost count of how many times friends have asked me where to go on the island. The question always makes me pause – how do you compress such a rich tapestry of experiences into a quick answer?
“Bali isn’t just one destination, it’s many worlds wrapped into one island,” says Ketut Sumerta, a local guide I’ve worked with who has shown travelers around his home for over two decades. “You can find peace in our temples, adventure in our mountains, and community in our villages – each corner tells its own story.”
While you’d need months to fully explore every hidden spot on this Indonesian paradise, most visitors have limited time. So I’ve put together this carefully chosen list of 18 places that will give you a genuine taste of what makes Bali special.
- Best tourist destination: Uluwatu Temple
- Underrated hidden gem: Nusa Penida Island
- Best for families: Waterbom Bali
- Best for couples: Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Best for solo travelers: Canggu
- Best beach spot: Nusa Dua
Uluwatu Temple
Perched majestically on a cliff’s edge in southern Bali, Uluwatu Temple stands as one of the island’s most important spiritual landmarks. This ancient temple, built in the 11th century, sits 70 meters above the roaring Indian Ocean, offering visitors both cultural significance and incredible sea views. The temple complex features traditional Balinese architecture with its multi-tiered roofs and detailed stone carvings, while wild monkeys roam freely throughout the grounds, adding an extra touch of local charm.
Ubud Monkey Forest
Ever wondered what it’s like to share your walking path with hundreds of cheeky monkeys? That’s daily life at Ubud Monkey Forest, a leafy sanctuary in the heart of Bali’s cultural center. This 30-acre forest temple complex is home to over 700 long-tailed macaques who’ve made ancient stone temples and towering banyan trees their playground. You can watch these curious creatures swing through branches, care for their babies, or maybe even try to snatch a snack from unsuspecting visitors. Beyond the monkey business, the forest holds three Hindu temples dating back to the 14th century, making it a place where nature and spirituality come together in true Balinese style.
Tanah Lot Temple
Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop along Bali’s southwestern coast, Tanah Lot Temple is one of the island’s most photographed landmarks. This 16th-century Hindu shrine sits on a small island that becomes completely surrounded by ocean waters during high tide, creating a scene that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale. The temple is one of Bali’s seven sea temples, built to honor the guardian spirits of the sea, and offers some of the best sunset views you’ll find on the island.
Nusa Penida Island
With its rugged coastline and hidden coves, Nusa Penida is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special. This small island off Bali’s southeast coast has become increasingly popular with travelers seeking experiences beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s a place where limestone cliffs drop dramatically into crystal-clear waters, and secluded beaches require a bit of effort to reach – think steep staircases and bumpy dirt roads. While the journey to get there isn’t always smooth (the boat ride from mainland Bali can be choppy), those who make the trip are treated to some of Indonesia’s most impressive coastal views and encounters with massive manta rays gliding through the waters below.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Just 20 minutes north of Ubud lies the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces, a place that shows off Bali’s ancient farming traditions. Like many rice fields across the island, Tegalalang follows the traditional Subak irrigation system that dates back to the 8th century. But what sets it apart is how the terraces cascade down the valley in perfect curves, creating a natural amphitheater of green. Early morning visitors might catch local farmers tending to their crops using the same methods their ancestors did generations ago. The area has grown beyond just farming – you’ll now find small cafes perched on the hillsides, swing sets suspended over the paddies, and photo spots where you can take in the layered landscape that’s become a symbol of Balinese agriculture.
Seminyak Beach
Looking for the perfect mix of luxury and beach life? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Seminyak Beach, where Bali’s high-end scene meets golden sands and rolling waves. This stretch of coastline has become a magnet for surf enthusiasts and sunset chasers, with rows of chic beach clubs and boutique hotels lining the shore. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your morning riding waves, your afternoon browsing designer boutiques, and your evening sipping cocktails at spots like Potato Head Beach Club while the sun dips into the Indian Ocean. Unlike its busier neighbor Kuta, Seminyak keeps things more laid-back and sophisticated, making it perfect for those who want their beach time with a side of style.
Gili Islands
The Gili Islands were my escape from Bali’s busy beaches back in 2018. This trio of small islands sits just off Lombok’s northwest coast, each offering its own take on paradise. Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air are car-free havens where bicycles and horse-drawn carts rule the sandy paths. The islands combine laid-back beach life with world-class snorkeling spots, where you can swim alongside sea turtles and colorful fish in crystal-clear waters. Each sunset brings a different show, with Mount Agung’s silhouette creating a perfect backdrop for beachfront restaurants and bamboo swing sets that have become Instagram favorites.
Mount Batur
For adventurous souls seeking a true taste of Bali’s natural power, Mount Batur offers an experience that’ll stay with you forever. This active volcano sits 5,600 feet above sea level, and while it might not be the tallest peak on the island, it delivers some of the most memorable moments you can find. Most visitors tackle the 2-hour pre-dawn hike to reach the summit just as the sun begins to paint the sky, lighting up the massive crater lake below and distant Mount Agung in the background. It’s not the easiest morning – you’ll need to start around 3:30 AM – but sharing breakfast cooked using the volcano’s own steam vents while watching the world wake up makes it all worthwhile.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Get up close with hundreds of mischievous monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a leafy natural preserve in the heart of Ubud. This 30-acre forest houses ancient temples and winding pathways where long-tailed macaques roam freely, often approaching visitors hoping for a banana or two. You can join a guided tour to learn about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts and the cultural significance of the temples, or simply wander the shaded paths on your own. Just remember to secure your belongings – these clever creatures have quite the reputation for snatching phones and sunglasses from unsuspecting tourists.
Jimbaran Bay
Jimbaran Bay first caught my eye during a visit to Bali in 2018. Located on the island’s southwestern coast, this curved bay stretches along soft golden sands, where local fishing boats dot the shoreline each morning. The area is best known for its fresh seafood restaurants that line the beach, where tables are set directly on the sand as the sun dips into the Indian Ocean. At dusk, dozens of grills fire up along the shore, and the scent of grilled fish and prawns fills the air. The quiet buzz of conversation from beachfront cafes mingles with gentle waves, while traditional fishing boats, painted in bright colors, bob peacefully in the distance.
Sanur Beach
Experience the calmer side of Bali at Sanur Beach, a peaceful stretch of coastline perfect for families and early risers. The long beachfront promenade lets you stroll or bike while watching local fishermen bring in their morning catch. Unlike the busy beaches of Kuta, Sanur’s gentle waves and shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and paddle boarding. Head to one of the seaside restaurants for fresh seafood and cold drinks, or grab a spot under a beach umbrella to watch the sun rise over the ocean – it’s one of the best morning views on the island.
Kuta Beach
Kuta Beach is where I send anyone looking to experience Bali’s famous surf scene. Located on the island’s southern coast, this 2.5-kilometer stretch of sand has become a go-to spot for both seasoned surfers and beginners who want to catch their first wave. The beach is lined with surf schools, beachfront bars, and local warungs (restaurants) serving up fresh seafood and cold Bintang beers.
Tirta Empul Temple
Of all the sacred sites I’ve explored in Bali, Tirta Empul Temple stands out as something truly special. This 1000-year-old water temple draws both locals and visitors who come to take part in traditional purification rituals in its spring-fed pools. The temple complex features a series of water spouts where people line up to pray and cleanse themselves in the cool, clear water that’s believed to have healing properties. It’s not just another tourist spot – watching Balinese worshippers in their white garments performing age-old ceremonies alongside travelers creates a genuine atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere on the island. While it can get busy, especially in the morning hours, the peaceful garden settings and intricate stone carvings make it worth navigating the crowds.
Lempuyang Temple
Get ready for one of Bali’s most photographed spots at Lempuyang Temple, home to the famous “Gates of Heaven.” These towering split gates frame Mount Agung perfectly, creating an iconic view that’s all over Instagram. The temple sits high up in East Bali at 1,775 feet above sea level, where cool mountain air meets ancient Balinese architecture. While the gates steal the show, the temple complex actually includes seven different sanctuaries connected by 1,700 steps. For the best experience, arrive early in the morning when the mist rolls in and the crowds are thin. Just remember to pack a sarong and be prepared for a bit of a climb – the views are worth every step.
Sekumpul Waterfall
If there’s one waterfall in Bali that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a hidden paradise, it’s Sekumpul. This collection of seven cascading falls drops nearly 300 feet through the dense northern jungle, creating what many consider the island’s most impressive natural water display. Getting here involves a decent trek down roughly 100 stairs and across bamboo bridges, but the journey itself becomes part of the adventure. The locals who guide visitors through the surrounding coffee plantations and small villages add a personal touch to the experience, sharing stories about growing up in the shadow of these powerful falls. It’s not the easiest place to reach – you’ll need to commit to a bumpy 2-hour drive from Ubud – but those who make the effort get to experience a side of Bali that most tourists never see.
Canggu
Canggu has evolved from a sleepy surf town into one of Bali’s most talked-about hangouts, and it’s easy to see why. This beachside area draws in digital nomads, surfers, and travelers looking to experience Bali’s laid-back charm without the crowds you’ll find in nearby Seminyak. The black-sand beaches here offer some of the island’s best waves, while the streets are lined with cool cafes, beach clubs, and local warungs serving up tasty Indonesian fare. It’s not the most peaceful spot in Bali anymore – the constant buzz of scooters and construction speaks to its growing popularity – but there’s still something special about watching the sunset from a rice field while sipping on a coconut.
Taman Ayun Temple
Want to experience Bali’s rich royal heritage? Step into Taman Ayun Temple, the grand former royal family temple of the Mengwi Kingdom. Built in 1634, this peaceful complex surrounded by wide moats feels like stepping into ancient Bali, with its traditional multi-tiered shrines and expansive courtyard gardens. Located in Mengwi village, about 30 minutes from Ubud, it’s a perfect morning stop before the day gets too hot. You can wander past lotus ponds and towering meru towers while learning about Balinese Hindu traditions, or simply find a quiet spot to take in the serene atmosphere away from Bali’s busier temples.
Nusa Dua Beach
Many travelers flock to Nusa Dua Beach for its pristine white sand and calm blue waters, but this destination is more than just a beach getaway. The area features a long stretch of shoreline protected by offshore reefs, making it perfect for families with small children and those seeking gentle waters for swimming. Along the beachfront, you’ll find high-end resorts, waterfront restaurants, and a paved walking path that connects the entire coast. While most visitors come for beach activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, Nusa Dua’s Bali Collection shopping center and the Museum Pasifika offer plenty to do when you need a break from the sun.
