Welcome to Bali, the island of gods and a true gem in Indonesia’s crown. Whether you’re a beach lover, a honeymooner, a culture enthusiast, or an adventurer at heart, Bali offers something enchanting for everyone. I recently traveled to this lush paradise, and found there were so many things to do in Bali it was hard to pick which ones to book since we only had a week. Below, we are sharing some of these incredible experiences and our recommendation on some of the best things to do in Bali, Indonesia!
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1. Visit the Rice Terraces Near Ubud
Located just north of Ubud, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a must-see for any visitor. These iconic terraces are a stunning example of the traditional Balinese irrigation system known as “subak.” The view as we walked through with our guide was incredible, and you’re surrounded by the most lush scenery and beautiful views. The best time to visit the rice terraces in Bali is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, and you’ll want to make sure you wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be a bit uneven! We decided to book a private guided tour that took us to several highlights of Ubud, and it included the rice terraces.
2. Bali Jungle Swing
Have you seen travelers on social media posting photoshoot worthy shots of swinging in a swooping dress over a rice terrace? It’s definitely a must try experience and is consistently promoted as one of the most popular things to do in Bali! There are several swings located around Ubud, ranging from 10 to 78 meters above the ground, and offering breathtaking views of the jungle, rice fields, and river (Don’t worry – you’re secured with a harness to the swing so you don’t have to worry about falling off!).
You can often pair the swing experience with a visit to the rice terrace since they are so close together, and many tours offer the experience with the dress rental included. They had dozens of colors and styles available to choose from, but the lines can get long later in the day so be prepared to go early! The guides are pros at taking photos, and will get every single angle possible, as well as slow mo and regular speed videos so you don’t have to worry about how you’re going to capture the perfect shot for Instagram.
3. Explore the Water Temples
Built in 962 AD, Tirta Empul Temple is famous for its holy spring water and offers a deep dive into Balinese spirituality. Tirta Empul’s architecture reflects classic Balinese style, featuring ornate stone carvings, statues, and pavilions that tell stories of gods, mythology, and local culture. Balinese temples require modest dress, so if you decide to visit, you’ll need to wear a sarong while you are on the temple grounds (they are provided at the front as part of your entrance fee) and avoid disruptive behavior. If you take part in the purification ritual, be sure to bring a change of clothes. Also if you are menstruating, it is advised not to enter the holy water, per Balinese tradition.
4. Shop at Ubud Markets
Ubud’s markets are the perfect place to buy local handicrafts, souvenirs, and artwork. From handmade jewelry to traditional textiles, there’s something for everyone. We stumbled upon a silk shop and ended up buying a variety of shirts, dresses, and robes for ourselves and as gifts for family back home! Negotiating on price with local street vendors is quite common in Bali, so don’t be afraid to give a counter offer if the price seems quite high.
5. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest
If you’re wondering what to do in Bali that involves nature and a bit of wildlife, head to the Sacred Monkey Forest. Home to over 700 long-tailed macaques, the Sacred Monkey Forest is a serene sanctuary in Ubud. The forest is not only a natural reserve but also a site of cultural and spiritual significance, with several ancient temples within its grounds. As soon as you enter, you’ll see monkeys throughout so be sure to watch your belongings! Don’t bring in food or drinks and keep a respectful distance from the monkeys. There are some areas where you can take selfies with the monkeys, but you’ll need to get a special ticket at a booth by the entrance to the forest.
6. Take a Balinese Cooking Class
One of my favorite parts of travel is learning about (and eating!) food from other cultures, so we love to do cooking classes in each country we visit. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture and learn a few new techniques and recipes. Many cooking schools in Ubud and other parts of Bali offer classes that start with a visit to the local market to buy fresh ingredients, followed by a hands-on cooking experience. If you are looking for cultural things to do in Bali, I’d definitely recommend taking a cooking class!
7. Take a Day Trip to Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida’s dramatic cliffs and crystal clear waters offer some of the most stunning views in the region, and it’s a great day trip if you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Bali. To get to Nusa Penida, you’ll need to take a short boat ride from Bali’s southeastern coast. If you easily get seasick, I’d recommend bringing dramamine as the water can sometimes get choppy. There’s a few major spots to visit. Popular spots like Kelingking Beach—with its iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff—Atuh Beach, and Angel’s Billabong provide dramatic views and photo opportunities. For underwater enthusiasts, snorkeling or diving around Crystal Bay, Manta Point, and Gamat Bay reveals vibrant coral reefs and the chance to see majestic manta rays and colorful marine life.
The island has quite rugged terrain and less developed infrastructure, so definitely bring motion sickness medication for the windy, bumpy roads! We decided to go with a guided tour that also included transportation to the dock, the boat ride to the island, and a private driver for the day that took us to the highlights of both the east and west side of the island. Our driver was also an excellent photographer and captured some incredible shots of us throughout the day!
8. Visit Waterfalls Near Ubud
Nestled in Bali’s lush interior, Ubud offers a variety of stunning waterfalls perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. Tegenungan Waterfall is a popular spot with easy access and a spacious pool for swimming. For a more secluded experience, head to Tukad Cepung, where sunlight filters through a natural cave, casting beautiful light rays onto the waterfall. Just being in these serene settings is a unique way to enjoy Ubud’s natural tranquility, and we loved that our private guided tour took us to some truly serene spots. If you are planning on exploring Bali’s waterfalls, be sure to pack water shoes and a dry bag for your electronics!
9. See a Traditional Balinese Dance Performance
No visit to Bali is complete without experiencing traditional Balinese dance, a mesmerizing blend of movement, music, and storytelling. In Ubud, catch a performance at Ubud Palace, where dancers portray Hindu epics through intricate gestures and costumes, accompanied by the hypnotic sounds of the gamelan orchestra. The Kecak dance, with its unique chanting chorus, is another must-see, offering a captivating experience rooted in Bali’s rich cultural history. We were able to see traditional performances at some of the hotels and restaurants we visited, and both were wonderful cultural experiences.
10. Relax at a Spa with a Massage
While there’s endless adventures and excursions in Bali, a trip wouldn’t be complete without relaxation as well. If you’re looking for more relaxing things to do in Bali, a spa day is definitely a must do. There are countless spas in Bali that offer services ranging from hot stone massages to flower baths. We did several couples massages, both at our hotel and at local spas, as well as the flower bath. The massage we received at the Sankara Resort & Spa may have been one of the most relaxing massages I’ve ever had, and it was extremely affordable too!
Summary: Top Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia
There are so many things to do in Bali, from serene temples and vibrant markets to stunning beaches and lush jungles. Whether you’re seeking spiritual experiences at water temples, adventurous excursions like swimming under a waterfall, or relaxation on picturesque beaches, Bali has something to inspire every type of traveler. With a unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, this island invites you to experience its magic firsthand, making it one of our favorite destinations to travel to!
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