✨ Introduction: Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia
Bali, the Island of the Gods, is a tropical paradise that promises far more than just sun-kissed beaches and turquoise waters. Nestled in the heart of Indonesia, this enchanting island blends spiritual heritage, natural beauty, and a vibrant culture into one unforgettable experience. From surfing the legendary waves of Uluwatu to discovering the sacred temples of Ubud, Bali offers something for every type of traveler—whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or someone simply looking to unwind in paradise.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the most exciting, relaxing, and awe-inspiring things to do in Bali Indonesia so you can make the most of your journey to this magical destination. Ready to explore the best of Bali? Let’s dive in!
1. Take an Authentic Balinese Cooking Class
A cooking class is a must-do while in Bali! The island is one of our all-time favorite food destinations, so we just had to take a cooking class to learn how to cook at home. We thought it would be fun and a great way to try foods we don’t usually eat – and we were right! We’ve done a few of these classes in Bali, but our top picks are…
We loved this group cooking class, which started with a trip to the local market to pick out the freshest ingredients. Then, we went to a local warung where we learned to cook 9 different Balinese dishes.
We loved how hands-on the class was, and even though I’ve eaten a lot of Balinese food over the years, I discovered dishes I’d never tried before. It was a lovely end to the class to sit down together to eat the feast we made, and we even got a recipe book to take home.
It cost $45, and we drove ourselves. It's easy to get to Seminyak by bike or Gojek from the most popular spots on the island, but the hosts can also arrange transportation. We thought it was a good value because the price included all the ingredients and we got to eat a lot of food! We met at the market at 8am and the class lasted 5 hours, so it was a fun way to spend the morning. We would definitely do it again!
Private Tour of Ubud
We also wanted to try a private cooking class, and Ubud was amazing. It was held in a private home in a traditional village and we got to meet our host's entire family! We learned to make recipes that have been passed down for generations.
We cooked a 5-course meal and tried lots of fruits and vegetables from the family garden, as well as homemade jamu, which is a healthy Balinese tonic, and even washed down all the food with some local beer.
What made this experience special for us was that it was so personal. We loved hearing stories from Putu and his family and touring their family compound. We weren’t the only ones who loved it – there are hundreds of 5-star reviews you can check out! Or read more about our experience in our in-depth review.
The cost of the class is $74-$98 USD per person, depending on the size of the group, which includes transportation from Ubud, although if you’re staying in another area, you can always drive yourself. Trust me, it’s worth it!
2. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest is one of the most iconic attractions in all of Bali, which is definitely saying something. Plus, it’s super easy to visit as it’s right in the middle of Ubud – so if you’re planning a trip to Ubud, this is a must-do.
This sanctuary is home to over 1,200 long-tailed macaque monkeys, which are sacred in Balinese culture. These cute little monkeys are protected here. We can happily say that they weren’t aggressive and didn’t try to steal anything from us – oops! Just keep a respectful distance and remember that the forest is their home.
Speaking of the forest, it’s absolutely beautiful. Monkeys aside, we loved wandering around here. There are sacred temples and shrines to see.
There is parking available if you’re coming by scooter and the entrance fee is around $5 USD on weekdays or $6.50 USD on weekends. It is open daily from 9am to 6pm, but we recommend arriving just before 9am to beat the crowds. After all, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the entire island.
You can also visit the Monkey Forest as part of this sightseeing tour, which will take you to many of Ubud’s attractions in one fun day. This tour includes visits to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Tirta Empul, and the Monkey Forest, and prices start at $33 USD.
3. Visit Finns Beach Club
You can’t miss the chance to party at Finns Beach Club in Canggu! It is a huge beach club with four pools, two swim-up bars, and several dance floors with live music and DJs. We say if you want to party in Bali, there is no better place than Finns Beach.
Finns accepts walk-ins but is extremely popular, so you should book tables, booths, day beds, and party platforms in advance. You can even book a lagoon bed right in the middle of the VIP pool! There is a minimum cost associated with each option, starting at $42 USD for a single daybed and going up to $420 USD for a deluxe party bed that can accommodate up to 10 people. Finns is quite expensive, so you can easily meet the minimum cost here.
However, Finns has a pretty good happy hour from 7-9pm where you can save money on 2-for-1 cocktails, mocktails, beer, and wine. It’s a really fun place to party, so a day at Finns is worth it. It’s open 7 days a week from 10am to midnight, and you can make reservations online.
4. Day Trip to Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is a small and stunning island off the east coast of Bali, and it’s here that you’ll find the famous T-Rex Cliffs, or Kelingking Cliffs to use their proper name. Believe it or not, there’s more to Nusa Penida than just these dinosaur-shaped rock formations.
You can take a day trip to Nusa Penida on your own if you take the slow ferry, but speaking from experience, ferries in Bali can often be cramped, uncomfortable, and often delayed. So instead, we booked this speedboat tour and it turned out to be a great decision!
After ziplining around the island, we saw the famous cliffs above Kelingking Beach, as well as Broken Beach, which is home to a beautiful natural bridge. Our guides also took us snorkeling, and we visited a beautiful restaurant with epic coastal views for lunch. We’ve got all the details covered in this Nusa Penida tour review here!
Having our friendly guides drive us around, we also saved ourselves the hassle of renting a scooter to get around the island. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from various hotels in Bali, so we didn’t have to worry about getting to the port on our own.
You need at least two people to book this tour, and we recommend choosing the snorkeling option as it was one of the best snorkeling experiences we’ve had in Bali. It costs $116 USD, which we think is totally worth it as we’ll be doing this tour again in no time!
5. Dinner at Sa Mesa
Sa'Mesa in Bali is a really fun and unique dining experience. It's an Italian restaurant and since Daniel is Italian, we had to check it out... and we're so glad we did!
Sa'Mesa is a family-style restaurant, so everyone eats together at two long tables. Their motto is "Come as a stranger, leave as a friend", which is absolutely true! They have two locations in the Canggu area, so hopefully you'll be near one of them!
You don't order a la carte here, but rather pay a set price of 590,000 IDR ($36 USD) and get to enjoy about 18 different dishes. It's a real culinary journey and what's even better is that you get free homemade limoncello all night long, which definitely helps liven things up.
The night ends with everyone dancing at the tables, so you start with an incredible meal and end with a big party. It’s a lot of fun and not the kind of experience you might expect in Bali, but it’s a memorable way to spend an evening.
6. Tirta Empul Temple
The entire Tirta Empul is one of the most famous temples in Bali. People come here to drink holy water from the springs that fill the temple’s ponds. In fact, the name “Tirta Empul” means “holy spring.” Visiting Tirta Empul allows you to participate in this purification ritual and experience the spiritual side of Balinese culture.
The temple costs around $4 USD to enter, which includes renting a sarong. If you’re going alone, a local guide will likely approach you and offer to take you on a tour of the temple, which we found really helpful on our first visit.
Before heading to the changing rooms, you can make offerings in front of the temple, where you can rent a special sarong to go into the water for less than $1 USD. Only swimwear is allowed, so please be respectful of cultural norms. There are also lockers for rent for $1 USD.
We worked through three pools, representing the past, present, and future. Each pool has multiple spouts to cleanse yourself, so if you want to do it right, you can stop at each one. However, the pool gets busy, so people tend to skip a few spouts. Make sure to skip the 11th and 12th spouts after the first pool, as our guide told us they are only for use during the death ceremony!
Tirta Empul is a 30-minute drive from the center of Ubud, so if you rent a scooter and stay in Ubud, you can drive yourself.
Alternatively, you can book this skip-the-line tour that includes private transportation, temple entry, locker rental, and a guide to show you what to do during the purification ceremony. This costs around $30 USD per person – depending on where you need to go. They arrange pickups from different parts of the island which is convenient. The lines at the temples can be very long, so we recommend this tour!
7. Waterfall Tour
It’s no secret that Bali has some beautiful waterfalls, but many of them can be difficult to find on your own. So, to make sure you don’t miss any of the best spots, you can spend a day exploring the island with a private driver and taking Insta-worthy photos that will have everyone green with envy.
The waterfalls you’ll see include the stunning and dramatic Munduk Waterfall located in the highlands and the Banumala Twin Waterfalls, which are beautiful and much less touristy. Your guide will also take you to Leke Leke Waterfall, which is located in the jungle and is difficult to find on your own, so you’ll really find some hidden gems on this tour.
If you’re the type of person who likes to get off the beaten path and discover hidden gems, this waterfall tour is the perfect way to explore Bali! Not only do we love it, it has hundreds of 5-star reviews that you can read here.
It costs $129 USD for two, but prices are lower for larger groups. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Seminyak, Central Canggu, Central Ubud, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, or Nusa Dua, as well as lunch at a local restaurant. It lasts about 9 hours and you can start between 7-10am, although we recommend going early so you can enjoy these places with fewer people!
8. Go on a food tour
We love food tours because they are so much fun and a great way to get to know a place. Balinese food is so delicious and with so many dishes to try, we love to take different food tours all over the island. No two are exactly the same!
Private Food Tour with 10 Tastes in Denpasar
We enjoyed this private food tour in Denpasar because it took us off the beaten track. Denpasar isn’t really a tourist destination in Bali, so this tour helped us discover lots of authentic local places with the help of our incredible guide, Reza! We tried lots of different foods from the food markets and local restaurants, but the real highlight was the babi guling, which is a Balinese hog roast. Reza also took us to see some temples and religious sites as we walked around.
The tour cost $60 USD for the two of us, but only $35 USD for a group of 8, which we thought was great value for a private tour. We would highly recommend this for anyone looking to get away from the beach clubs and Instagram hotspots for a few hours and experience the “real” Bali!
Ubud Night Market Food Tour
We had a great time on this Ubud night market tour and enjoyed the market experience much more deeply than we would have on our own. Our guide, Kadek, made sure we sampled all the best stalls, from traditional laklak cakes to delicious babi guling. A few beers were also included, so it was a fun and relaxing night! Kadek was very friendly and a great host, and we were absolutely full by the end of the evening.
In my experience, Asian markets can actually be a bit overwhelming when you’re visiting for the first time, so it’s worth getting a local to help you get the most out of the experience. And at $36 USD, this tour is hard to beat in terms of value! The price also includes pickup from Ubud.
9. Pura Lempuang Temple
Who wouldn’t want to see the temple known as the “Gateway to Heaven”? We definitely went!
Pura Lempuang is one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Bali. We had to climb about 1,700 steps to get to the top, so it was a lot of work to see the views, but it was definitely worth it. And once we reached the top, we were able to take that famous Instagram photo, with Mount Agung framed between two pillars – although the reflected water you see in the photo is actually the photographer holding a mirror under the camera!
It is possible to visit the temple on your own. It is open from 7am to 5pm and the entrance fee for foreigners is around 100,000 IDR (around 6 USD).
However, the temple is located at least a 2-hour drive from most of the island’s tourist attractions, such as Canggu, Seminyak and Ubud, so we decided to save ourselves the hassle and book this all-inclusive guided tour. There are pickups all over the island and it’s better to travel in an air-conditioned car than to sweat it out on a bike and navigate alone – I’ve found that Google Maps isn’t always 100% accurate in Bali!
As part of this tour we were able to visit Titra Ganga, a stunning water temple, and the ancient village of Tenganan, which gave us a glimpse into what life was like in Bali before the massive tourism boom. This is a full-day private tour, and costs $75 USD for two people. Ketut was a fantastic guide and made the trip a lot of fun, as well as providing some great insights into Balinese culture.
10. Go on an Instagram Tour
Bali is a paradise for great travel photos, so why not combine sightseeing with some fun photoshoots on this Instagram tour?
We had heard the hype about this tour (it has 2,000 positive reviews online!) and I have to say, it was everything I expected and more. We traveled to all the top Instagrammable spots on the island with our own personal photographer. He took pictures of us swimming under the Tukad Sepung waterfall, climbing the giant swings on the Tegallalang rice terraces, posing at the Heaven’s Gate, and jumping between the steps of the Tirta Gangga waterfall.
These Insta-famous spots are scattered around the island, and we can assure you that it’s worth going with a local guide who knows their way around and understands how to capture your best angles, of course! If you want more information (and to see all the pictures we had!), check out our review of the Bali Instagram Tour.
This is a private tour and it’s all inclusive, which meant we were able to relax and enjoy the experience… and occasionally say cheese to take our photos! It costs $134 USD for two or more people or $199 USD if you’re a solo traveler, which might actually be ideal if you don’t have anyone to take photos of that all-important vacation. This price includes pickup from your hotel in Uluwatu and all entrance fees, so it’s a great value overall!
11. Sunset Dinner Cruise
We think this dinner cruise is the perfect way to end a day in Bali! In addition to enjoying a magnificent Balinese sunset at sea, this 4-hour cruise also offers a range of local entertainment, which was a lot of fun to watch. We got to see traditional Balinese dancing, as well as a singer and even a bodybuilder, so there was something for everyone!
The buffet was also really great, with lots of Balinese and international food options, and then there was a disco after dinner. We think this would be a great option for groups of friends looking for a fun night out in Bali, and the staff were super friendly and happy to take lots of photos.
The cruise from Seminyak leaves at 5:45pm and lasts 4 hours. There is free pickup from Seminyak, but pickups from other parts of the island can be arranged for an additional fee. It costs $87 USD, which includes the cruise, buffet dinner and a welcome drink, and then there is a well-stocked bar on board if you want to buy additional drinks.
12. Go surfing
We surfed all over Bali, but the most popular spots were Kuta, Canggu, Seminyak and Uluwatu. We often go to Canggu Beach to surf and it is possible to rent a board for between $3-$4 USD for two hours, although this usually requires a bit of bargaining.
If you have never surfed before, or need to brush up on your skills, I think this 2 hour private lesson in Canggu is the best way to learn. It is a private lesson, so it is completely tailored to your skill level, and is an amazing way to build confidence. I think it is a steal at $28 USD, especially since board rental is included, and there is no haggling involved when booking online!
We also love surfing in Uluwatu, which is the ultimate surfer hotspot in Bali. There are lots of great spots for experienced surfers here, such as Bingin Beach, Balangan Beach and Suluban Beach.
While Uluwatu attracts a lot of experienced surfers, it is also a great place to learn. Padang Padang Wright's Beach Break is perfect for beginners, and it doesn't hurt that the beach itself is stunning. This place gets busy, so we recommend booking this private lesson for $51 USD, which includes transport, board rental, and a 2-hour class. I think if you want to surf independently for the rest of your trip, private lessons are the best way to go, as you'll get plenty of personalized instruction.
13. Kecak Dance Uluwatu
Kecak dance is a popular Balinese dance performed in villages and temples. It is based on an ancient exorcism tradition to ward off evil spirits and usually involves fire and traditional costumes.
Bali’s most famous Kecak dance is held at the Uluwatu Temple. Around 75 artists perform the Kecak dance every day at sunset on a steep cliff, and the dramatic scenery makes the performance even more impressive.
We definitely think it’s worth going to Uluwatu to see this epic show, but depending on where you’re staying in Bali, it can be a 2-hour drive. That’s a lot of time to sit on a scooter in the heat, so we recommend taking this sunset tour, which offers pickups from around the island. This way, you will be taken to Uluwatu Temple in an air-conditioned vehicle and will receive a guided tour of the temple before the performance begins.
We recommend choosing the all-inclusive option, as you will not only get the chance to see the world-famous Kecak dance, but also have a delicious seafood dinner in Jimbaran afterwards. Jimbaran is the seafood capital of Bali, and who doesn’t love dinner on the beach? If you have the time, we highly recommend enjoying this experience.
14. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (aka Pura Beratan) is one of the main temples in Bali and, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful temples. It is located on the edge of a lake, so it is surrounded by stunning scenery and on calm days it is possible to see the tall tower reflected in the water. Unsurprisingly, it is a popular spot for photographers!
Ulun Danu Beratan is located in the north of Bali, so it’s about 1.5 hours away from places like Ubud and Canggu. The entrance fee is IDR 75,000 (about US$5), but it can be quite difficult to find on your own, so we recommend going on this full-day water temple tour. This way, not only will we be able to visit Pura Beratan, but we’ll also be able to visit Luhur Batukaru, which is located on the slopes of Mount Batukaru volcano, and see Tanah Lot at sunset, which was spectacular.
One thing we loved about this tour is that the itinerary also includes a visit to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, which are much quieter than the famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud. Prices start at $39 USD per person, but we opted for the all-inclusive option at $69 USD because it included all entrance fees, lunch, and a delicious lunch based on the beautiful rice terraces.
15. Yoga
There are plenty of yoga studios all over the island, but as the spiritual center of Bali, Ubud is the ultimate yogi destination. The most famous place to find your zen is The Yoga Barn, which offers up to 20 classes per day. It has everything from Hatha and Power Yoga to types of yoga I’ve never heard of before, like Piao and Somatic Flow. So if you’re looking to try something new, I’d say you’re in for a treat!
Yoga Barn is open daily from 7am to 9pm, and a class pass usually costs IDR 165,000 (around $10 USD). I’d recommend arriving at least 20 minutes early, as classes fill up quickly.
Alternatively, for those who really want to get in touch with their spiritual side, there’s this full-day retreat, which includes a water purification ceremony, healing massage, lunch, and a yoga meditation session. It costs $82 USD and is the perfect way to relax and reset. Hey, while you’re in Ubud, right?
16. Explore Ubud
Ubud is the spiritual center of Bali, known for its lush rice fields and picturesque temples. It’s worth spending a night or two in Ubud, but if you can’t, this private full-day tour will ensure you get a real sense of what Ubud is all about.
What we love about this tour is that its itinerary includes all the sights of Ubud, which would be quite difficult to cover on your own in one day. It’s very well planned, so you can visit the Art Village to see some amazing local art and the sprawling Puseh Batuan Hindu Temple.
You’ll also see Tegenungan Waterfall, one of the most impressive in Bali, and my personal favorite, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. These rice fields are so beautiful, and you can also enjoy tea and coffee at the nearby Luwak Coffee.
Plus, there are plenty of places to take photos, including bridges, paths, inside man-made houses, and even the giant swing! Another highlight of this tour is a visit to the sacred monkey forest, which we mentioned earlier.
Since this is a private tour, you can tailor it to your interests, so for example, you can ask your guide to take you to Tirta Empul Temple, where you can participate in a traditional bathing ceremony, or the beautiful Campuhan Ridge Walk. Kanto Lampo Waterfall is also worth a visit for a quick swim, and there are people around who will take amazing photos with your phone in exchange for tips.
This full-day private tour costs $52 per person for a group of 2-3 people, or $33 for a group of 4 or more. We think this is a great value for a tour with 1,900+ positive reviews, especially since it includes entrance fees.
17. Rock Bar in Jimbaran
Rock Bar may seem like the place to go to dance to the Rolling Stones and AC/DC, but it’s actually a super classy bar in Jimbaran. It’s located within the luxurious Ayana Resort, but luckily, you don’t need to be a guest to enjoy this epic sunset spot.
This charming bar is literally carved into the side of a cliff – in fact, we had to climb a flight of stairs to get there! It’s known as one of the best places to watch the sunset in Bali, so we recommend getting there early to secure your table, as only hotel guests can book in advance for sunset.
Sunset times in Bali vary slightly throughout the year, so we’d recommend arriving around 3:30pm to avoid the wait to climb the stairs, and then you should be able to get a table in time to catch the full sunset view.
The minimum cost per person for a tapas table here is 300,000 IDR (~$19 USD) or 500,000 IDR (~$31 USD) for a dinner table, which is easily achievable if you’re having cocktails here. But we promise it’s worth it, because the dramatic scenery and colorful skies had us pinching ourselves!
18. Scuba Diving
Bali is located in Indonesia’s Coral Triangle, making it a world-famous scuba diving destination. So for keen divers, we just had to put on our masks and explore! The east coast of the island has excellent diving spots like Amed, Candidasa, and Tulamben, the latter of which is home to the famous Liberty Wreck. The USS Liberty was a World War II cargo ship that sank in 1942, so diving into it is an incredible experience.
While diving in Bali, we saw so many amazing creatures, such as manta rays, sunfish, stingrays, frogfish... just to name a few! Even though we are quite experienced divers, we were amazed by the diversity of marine life here.
If you have never dived before, Bali is an amazing place to learn! There are many dives suitable for beginners, but the one that caught our attention the most was this 5-hour scuba diving experience designed for beginners. It visits the famous Liberty Wreck and goes at a pace that suits you and makes you feel comfortable. It is no wonder that it has over 300 raving 5-star reviews!
Since we are both already PADI certified, we loved this all-inclusive diving tour to Liberty Wreck. Diving the Liberty Wreck is an unforgettable experience and the dive masters are absolutely fantastic. It costs $64 USD without hotel transfers or $93 USD for 2 people with transport. We think it’s great value for money as it includes lunch, two dives and all equipment. It’s no wonder it has over 100 5-star reviews!
19. Snorkel at the Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon Beach is one of the best places to snorkel in Bali, thanks to its clear, calm waters. The only problem is that it can be a long drive from where you’re staying, as it’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Canggu or Uluwatu, and about an hour from Ubud.
Luckily, this great snorkeling tour includes private transportation to the Blue Lagoon, and you’ll also get to see the Kanto Lampo and Tibumana waterfalls, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, which sounds pretty good to us!
At the Blue Lagoon, you’ll be accompanied in the water by a guide who will show you the best coral areas, where you’ll see plenty of tropical fish, moray eels, pufferfish, and if you’re lucky, even some turtles! You’ll have 2 hours in the water, so you’ll get to see plenty of marine life during this time. The tour price also includes snorkeling equipment, waterfall tickets, and lunch.
The Blue Lagoon tour lasts about 10 hours, including transportation, and costs $58 USD for the standard tour, which includes snorkeling and a visit to the waterfall. Alternatively, you can save money by booking a snorkeling-only tour for $44 USD per person, or you can upgrade the experience to include an ATV ride for $104 USD.
20. Get a massage
One of our favorite things about living in Bali was getting regular massages... sometimes even every day! There are plenty of places on the island where you can get massages starting at IDR 150,000 (~$10 USD) for an hour-long session.
We also like to try different types of massages. The traditional Bali-style massage is one of my favorites, as it is very gentle and uses a lot of aromatherapy oils, but the powerful Thai massage is also popular here. If you exercise a lot and want a real deep-tissue treatment, these are great!
Hot stone massages are also popular in Bali, and shiatsu massages are also ideal, which are great for your back or shoulder pain. And when I have a busy day, it’s hard to squeeze in a 30-minute foot massage.
There’s no one place to go for a massage in Bali. There are parlors everywhere and you’re rarely within a few hundred meters of one. There’s no need to go to a fancy, expensive spa – unless, of course, you want to!
21. Visit Uluwatu
Uluwatu is a place where you’ll find those perfect Bali beaches and plenty of amazing surfing. If you’re looking to spend some time here, we’ve got a full guide to things to do in Uluwatu. We love how quiet and serene it feels compared to other parts of Bali, so for us, visiting Uluwatu is a must while on the island!
If possible, we recommend spending a night or two here. There are many beautiful hotels nearby, including the famous Edge Bali Hotel, which is home to the island’s most iconic infinity pool. If that’s out of your budget, you can browse all the hotels in Uluwatu here.
Our must-do in Uluwatu is to visit the famous Uluwatu Temple, located on top of a hill. It dates back to the 11th century and every night at sunset, the island’s most famous Kecak dance is held here. It is a dance that depicts a legendary battle between good and evil, and we were mesmerized by the fire dance. The entrance fee is 50,000 IDR (about $3 USD) and then the performance ticket costs 1,00,000 IDR (about $6 USD). Don’t forget to tip in Taka (IDR).
We also love hanging out at the beach clubs in Uluwatu, which have lovely spots like Ulu Cliff House, Sunvaya, and Single Fin. And of course, we can’t ignore the beaches. We loved relaxing on the lovely Padang Padang Beach and had fun surfing at hotspots like Bingin Beach and Balangan Beach.
If you’re short on time, there are some great Uluwatu tours on offer too. We love this private half-day tour, which includes a guided visit to the temple and a sunset kekak performance, followed by dinner on the beach in Jimbaran, Bali’s seafood capital. The all-inclusive option costs $60 USD, and pickup is offered from all over the island, so it’s really convenient. Apparently we're not the only ones who think it's great, as it has over 1,300 5-star reviews which you can read here!
22. Watch the sunrise from Mount Batur
Mount Batur is an active volcano in northern Bali, and it’s truly a sight to behold! In fact, one of the best things to do on the island is to hike up early in the morning so you can see an epic sunrise from above.
As you can imagine, sunrises at Mount Batur are truly spectacular. Usually, there are all sorts of colors above you and then a layer of clouds below, with Mount Agung peeking out in the distance. It’s an epic experience and definitely worth starting early!
All in all, the hike alone takes about 2-3 hours, and there’s also some driving time to get to Mount Batur, so you’ll need to reach the crater in the middle of the night for sunrise. We don’t recommend doing this on a scooter in the dark, so it’s best to book a tour.
This sunrise tour includes transportation around the island (with pickup between 1:30-2 a.m.!), as well as flashlights, trekking poles, and raincoats so you don’t have to worry about renting hiking equipment separately. Since you’ll be hiking in the dark, it’s safer to go with a guide, and there’s even a nice breakfast with fresh coffee. Our suggestion is to opt for the hot springs visit option so you can reward yourself with a relaxing soak after the hike, with beautiful views.
If hiking (or 2 a.m. wake-up calls) aren’t your thing, you can also explore the lava formations at the base of Mount Batur in Kintamani Province with this private jeep tour! The intense landscape below the volcano feels almost otherworldly, and I personally preferred exploring this area, as it was much quieter and less touristy than many other places in Bali.
Speaking from experience, I can tell you that riding a scooter around the black rock desert is almost impossible. However, riding a jeep is a lot of fun, and the guides take amazing photos for you. To really enjoy the day, opt for a tour option that includes lunch and a dip in the Batur Hot Springs!
23. Whitewater Rafting
We never miss a chance to go whitewater rafting, and this river trip is one of those Bali activities that is even better during the rainy season on the island because the rapids reach up to class IV!
Although it is perfect for thrill-seekers, you don’t need any prior rafting experience. You’ll get plenty of help and guidance from a professional instructor, so it’s actually an ideal way to try whitewater rafting for the first time. It’s also perfect for families as kids as young as 7 are welcome to join in the fun. We’re sure this tour will be worth it, whether it’s your first time or your 20th.
You can choose whether or not to include pickup, although we recommend doing so. Once you arrive at the rafting center, you’ll be given a safety briefing and then spend 1.5 to 2 hours on the river while enjoying the wild beauty of the Balinese countryside.
This trip costs $28 USD for adults, or $39 USD each with private transportation (which we highly recommend). You can combine your rafting trip with additional activities for an additional fee, such as a visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest or the Rice Terraces.
24. Tegalalang Rice Terraces
You’ve probably already seen the Rice Terraces on Instagram as they’re one of the top photo stops! These days, they’re geared more towards social media users and photographers, with a bird’s nest to climb inside, a colorful “I Love Bali” sign, and a giant bungee swing.
The reason the rice terraces look as vibrant as they do is because of the traditional Indonesian subak irrigation system, which you’ll learn more about if you go on this sightseeing tour with a guide.
There’s an entrance fee of less than $4 USD to explore the rice fields, but there are plenty of fun, photo-worthy activities to enjoy for an additional fee. For example, you can ride a bungee swing, or even rent a long, high-top dress that makes your photos really stand out! There’s also a zipline and a skybike that go over the rice fields for epic views. Just make sure to bring some cash (local currency) so you can join in on all the fun!
Basically, checking out the rice terraces is like an adventure park and an amazing Instagram opportunity all at once!
But perhaps my favorite experience here was sampling coffee and tea at the Luwak Coffee Shop, which overlooks the rice fields. Even better, we can drink our coffee on a glass balcony with a serious view.
Tegallalang Rice Terrace opens at 8am every day and we recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds. As one of the most photogenic spots in Bali, this place is extremely popular!
25. Waterbom Park
Waterbom is a huge water park with 26 different rides and attractions to enjoy. There are some really interesting water slides, like the Pipeline, which are clearly visible, so we got to see some amazing views while going at high speeds. But for those of us who are more relaxed, there is also a lazy river and a private gazebo to relax in.
A day pass to the park costs 493,000 IDR (about $30 USD), and a family pass is available for 1,581,000 IDR (about $97 USD) if you are bringing kids. The best prices are available online in advance, as booking on the Waterbom website saves 15-30% on various entrance passes.
Waterbom is open daily from 9am to 6pm, so there is plenty of time to enjoy all the rides and there are plenty of options for food. Personally, we preferred having cocktails at the Lagoon Bar before swimming!
26. Off-Road ATV Tour
This 1.5-hour ATV tour was one of the most exciting things we did in Bali! If you’re up for a little mud, a lot of fun, and some serious off-road adventure, this is for you.
The tour starts with a safety briefing and a quick test run so you can get used to the quad bike (no experience necessary). Once you’re geared up and ready to roll, you’ll follow your guide on a wild, scenic trail that winds through rice fields, jungle trails, and even underground tunnels.
One of the highlights? Tumbling through a waterfall right in the middle of the trail, easily one of the coolest surprises of the day!
The guides do a great job of keeping the group together and everyone feeling safe, while also encouraging you to have fun and be adventurous. If you’re traveling with a partner or friend, you’ll also have the option to go solo or share a bike.
This trip will include everything you need, equipment, showers, and even food to refuel. It’s the perfect way to break up your beach days with something a little more action-packed. If you’re looking to see a different, dirtier (in a good way!) side of Bali, this trip is a total delight.
27. Mount Agung Sunrise Trekking
Okay, so you may have heard people talk about hiking Mount Batur in Bali, but we recommend you hike Mount Agung!
Mount Agung is the highest volcano in Bali, so the views from here are incredible. But perhaps more importantly, it’s much quieter than Mount Batur! There will be hardly any other tourists on the trail and you won’t be surrounded by crowds at the summit when you see that magnificent sunrise, which is usually the case with Mount Batur.
Now, Mount Agung is a bit more difficult to climb than Mount Batur and since the sunrise trek requires climbing in the dark, we highly recommend booking this tour. Experienced guides will be there to help you along the way, so as long as you are healthy and active, you don’t have to be a hiker. Hiking equipment like poles and a head torch are also included.
And I promise, once you reach the top, the lack of sleep and the 2-hour climb will be 1,000% worth it to watch the sunrise over the sand. In fact, we could see all the way to Lombok, which is a completely different island! Plus, we could have snacks and hot drinks while we were looking, and it really felt like being on top of the world. It was worth the $81 USD and the midnight hike!
28. Devdan Show at Bali Nusa Dua Theatre
The Devdan Show is one of the best ways to spend an evening in Bali. It’s a fantastic dance show that tells the story of two young tourists who get bored and get separated from their group, only to embark on a magical adventure and discover what Balinese culture and spirituality are all about. So, as an audience member, you go on that journey with them!
We loved the costumes, the music and the dancing – it was truly a sight to behold! The production value was great and the show featured many myths, legends and different types of dance. The performers were incredible and we especially loved all the stunts. The show lasted 45 minutes and the time flew by!
Tickets for the show ranged from $33 USD for the cheapest seats to $60 USD for the best seats in the house and included pickup from Nusa Dua. If you’re outside the area, it’s easy to drive to the theatre or take a GoJek or taxi. The show runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays and you can change or cancel your tickets for free when you book through Viator.
📝 Conclusion: Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia
From tranquil rice terraces and sacred temples to thrilling water adventures and world-class beaches, Bali is a destination that never stops inspiring. Whether you're watching the sunset at Tanah Lot, experiencing the spiritual energy of Ubud, or simply relaxing on the sands of Nusa Dua, every moment in Bali is a memory waiting to be made.
No matter your travel style—adventure, culture, nature, or relaxation—Bali delivers an experience that is both unforgettable and deeply enriching. So pack your bags, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready to discover the magic that makes Bali one of the most beloved travel destinations in the world.
🌴 Your Bali adventure awaits—are you ready to explore paradise? 🌺
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Bali, Indonesia 2025
Q1. What is the best time to visit Bali in 2025?
A: The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season from April to October, when the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities, beach visits, and sightseeing.
Q2. Is Bali safe for tourists in 2025?
A: Yes, Bali remains a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions with personal belongings and follow local guidelines, especially in crowded areas.
Q3. Do I need a visa to travel to Bali, Indonesia?
A: Most travelers from countries like the USA, UK, Australia, and EU can enter Bali visa-free for up to 30 days (tourism purposes). However, check the latest visa rules before your trip as policies may change.
Q4. What are the top things to do in Bali in 2025?
A: Some must-do activities include visiting Uluwatu Temple, exploring Ubud's rice terraces, relaxing on Seminyak Beach, hiking Mount Batur, and snorkeling in Nusa Penida.
Q5. Is Bali expensive for tourists in 2025?
A: Bali offers options for every budget. From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts, affordable street food to high-end restaurants—travelers can customize their experience to fit their budget.
Q6. Can I use credit cards in Bali?
A: Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in touristy areas. However, it’s advisable to carry some Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) for local markets and rural areas.
Q7. What local customs should I respect in Bali?
A: Dress modestly when visiting temples, always use your right hand for giving or receiving items, and avoid stepping on offerings placed on the ground. Balinese culture is deeply spiritual—respect is key.
Q8. What language is spoken in Bali?
A: The main language is Bahasa Indonesia, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, making communication relatively easy for travelers.
Q9. What is the local currency in Bali?
A: The currency used in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
Q10. How many days should I spend in Bali?
A: A 5 to 10-day trip is ideal to explore Bali’s highlights comfortably. You can mix beach time, cultural experiences, and nature adventures in that timeframe.
📣 Ready to Explore Bali, Indonesia in 2025?
Bali is calling—and 2025 is the perfect time to answer! With its lush landscapes, sacred temples, vibrant beach towns, and rich culture, Bali offers an unforgettable adventure for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway, a honeymoon, or a soul-searching solo trip, this island paradise has something just for you.
🌺 So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream trip, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the magic of Bali in 2025.
📸 Don’t forget your camera—you’re about to create memories that will last a lifetime!