13 Best Things to Do in Bali

Bali is a Hindu-majority province in Indonesia. 82% of the population practices Hinduism. Bali is just one island among 13,677 islands, also known as the Indonesian Archipelago. We list the 13 best things to do in Bali.

I went to Bali with my best friend, Ariana. We went in April 2019 and had an incredible experience because we learned about the culture, met the locals, and tried the traditional, spicy food. We even took a cooking class and made some of their iconic meals. Below I will list the best things to do in Bali. We booked private tours to see multiple places each day.

1. Mount Batur-

Watching the stunning sunrise at the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, is one of the best experiences in Bali and should be at the TOP of your Bali bucket list. The first documented eruption was in 1804. The most recent one was in 2000. You will wake up at the crack of dawn to go hiking and it will be 1000% worth it.

2. Padang Padang Beach–

The beaches are breathtaking in Bali. The ocean is turquoise blue and the sand is soft. Padang Padang Beach has rock formations and large waves. This spectacular beach is next to Uluwatu. I highly recommend trying the tasty coconut water on the beaches in Bali.

3. Try the local street food!

Durian tasted different. The unusual taste consisted of a combination between savory, sweet, and creamy all at once. Would I try it again? Probably not. Do I recommend trying it for yourself? Yes, 100%.

4. The Tegallalang Rice Terrace-

This place in Bali was slightly touristy and overcrowded, but gorgeous and a must-see if you are ever in Ubud. These terraces stand 600 meters above sea level. The rice terraces carved into the mountain are used for crop cultivation.

5. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary-

This place is also known as Monkey Forest Temple. It’s a fun day trip and only costs $3 per person. The place feels as if you are in a small rainforest among large groups of monkeys. The monkeys might seem all nice and cute, but don’t be fooled because they are not. They will scratch you or steal your water bottle. Don’t forget to hold on tight to your things!

6. Try the infamous Balinese Coffee

Balinese coffee is known as Kopi Luwak made from cat poop. Okay, I agree! This coffee sounds disgusting, but I recommend trying it because it is infamous. To be honest, it tastes pretty good. I also recommend trying their local beer, also known as Bintang beer. In my opinion, it tastes similar to Heineken. Also taste dragon fruit and durian while you are in Bali.

7. Temples in Bali.

There are so many temples to cover, as every home in Bali has a temple. Buildings and Temples in Bali are made out of volcanic rock. I can list a few below that we went to and a few that I have researched, but we did not have time to see them. Legend has it that entering all temples in Bali from the south through the split gate also known as ‘Candi Bentar’ means that I have allowed my physical body to enter the spiritual world.

A. Uluwatu Temple- This Balanise Hindu Sea temple is dedicated to Hyang Widhi Wasa. The image above is from the popular show, also known as the Kecak Fire Dance. This performance runs every single evening after the sunset at the Uluwatu Temple. The entrance fee is IDR 50,000 /person and IDR 25,000 for children. This Balinese Hindu dance and music was developed in 1930 and is based on the story of Ramayana.

B. The Elephant Cave Temple, also known as Goa Gajah Temple, is located in central Ubud. This temple is known for its rock wall carvings, elephant-carved cave, bathing pools, and fountains.

C. Besakih Temples– We were grateful we saw the 80 temples of Besakih on a Sunday because there were ceremonies everywhere. We got to witness their traditional outfits and Balance offerings to their god. This place is on the inclines of Bali’s largest volcano, also known as Mount Agung.

D. Other temples to see that we did not get to include Tirta Empul and Luhur Lemuyang.

8. Pantai Pandawa Beach

All of the beaches in Bali are beautiful, but wow, Pantai Pandawa beach took my breath away, and I can’t imagine my trip without seeing this stunning place. Enjoy your time in the water by kayaking, swimming, or even snorkeling.

9. Seminak Beach

Seminyak beach is a touristy spot in Bali and overcrowded. There are restaurants located right on the beach and surrounding the area. We were able to catch a motorcycle ride from our hotel to the beach, and it was an experience I will never forget!

10. Traditional Balinese Cooking Class

Take a cooking class and try some local food from Bali. The ingredients we used are not available back at home. A cooking class is for you if you love spicy food. It is cool to say that I have cooked a traditional Balinese dish!

11. Yoga Class at the Yoga Barn

We were able to take an indoor, outdoor yoga class at the Yoga Barn, and it was nothing but both peaceful and relaxing. The yoga barn is more than a simple studio because it consists of seven studios and offers 100 classes per week. It is a well-rounded experience of healing, wellness, and community. They also offer meditation classes and Ayurvedic treatments.

Address: Jl. Pengoseken 80571 Ubud

12. Waterfalls in Bali

I recommend visiting the Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud; however, there are a variety of waterfalls to swim at in Bali. This one had clean water, and gorgeous views. There are local shops and restaurants surrounding it.

Address: Jalan Lod Tunduh & Jalan Raya Negara, Gianyar, Bali 80571

13. Bali Swing

We were able to swing on the infamous ‘Bali Swings’ in multiple places. One of the main places you can hop on a swing is the Tegallalang Rice Terrace. I recommend this activity, as it is not only exhilarating, but also loads of fun.

We listed 13 best things to do in Bali. I hope that you enjoyed this blog post, and I am wondering have you been to Bali? If so, please comment below on your experience. I would love to hear about your adventures in Bali. Below are additional images that I have taken on my incredible trip! I hope that you have a wonderful day and have safe future travels!

XOXO,

Ashley

13 Best Things to Do in Bali!