Bali is so much more than white sand beaches and picturesque vistas. After thoroughly researching Bali, we are now confident in sharing our top ten must-do activities on the island. No trip to Bali is complete unless you check at least a few of these items off your list.
1. Visit the many rice terraces
Driving towards the north of the island will reward you with spectacular views of the many rice fields that flank either side of the narrow roads. If you visit Ubud, make sure to visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace and a few other local rice fields in the same area. You can walk through the rice fields for a small fee and engage in interesting conversations with locals.
2. Do it for the gram at the ‘Bali swing’
The famous Bali swing, which you’ve probably seen all over Instagram, is for those who refuse to leave Bali without having been suspended in the air, over lush fields. The Bali Swing, unquestionably the most popular in the world, has its own distinct thrill factor, with numerous jungle swings ranging from 10m to about 80m above the ground. To avoid crowds, arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. It’s a short drive from Ubud’s centre and costs around USD 35 per person for a package that includes the opportunity to be photographed on the many swings.
3. Spend a weekend on a rugged island
While central Bali has a lot to offer, we recommend visiting the Nusas for a true taste of island life. The largest of the three Nusas, Nusa Penida, is the most popular and home to breathtaking viewpoints and beaches. You’ll be living the laid-back life in Nusa Penida, rushing only to get to the beach to watch the sunset. Take a ferry to Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Ceningan for a day trip.
4. Go diving and snokeling with Manta Rays
All divers and water babies should take advantage of the opportunity to explore the underwater world while in Bali. Whether it’s your first or hundredth dive, Bali has amazing corals, sunken ships, and sea creatures. Manta Rays are easily spotted from the beach and are frequently a treat for snorkelers and swimmers.
5. Don’t miss the temples
Bali is well-known for its surf, sand, and sunshine, but it also has a thriving spiritual culture. A visit to one of Bali’s many ancient temples is essential for gaining a better understanding of the island’s fascinating culture and beliefs. Famous temples to visit include Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, Ulun Danu Temple, Pura Tirta Empul, Luhur Lempuyang, and Pura Saraswati.
6. Surf’s up
From thunderous waves to soft folds that are ideal for beginners to learn the fundamentals, Bali is a surfer’s paradise. The best surfing in the world can be found in Uluwatu on the island of Bali, which makes it the perfect location for learning new skills. For a small fee, Dreamsea Bali Surf Camp offers basic classes to both in-house visitors and tourists.
7. Never skip a sunset
The golden rule is to never miss a Bali sunset. Watch as the sky changes colours in minutes and melts behind the azure sea, with each sunset proving more breathtaking than the last. Clifftops, beach clubs, paddy fields, and even temples are just a few of Bali’s locations that make for great sites to watch the sun set. Sunsets in Tanah Lot, Crystal Bay, and Uluwatu Temple are among our favourites.
8. Eat the local food and drink Bintang
Perhaps our favourite aspect of any trip is the food, and Bali has some of the best restaurants we’ve ever visited. Bali is now a melting pot of many cultures, which is reflected in the island’s many dining options. The best restaurants can be found in Ubud, Canggu, and Uluwatu, with cuisine ranging from fusion Indonesian to European flair and even Mexican! When in Indonesia, don’t forget to try the popular local beers, Bintang and Kura Kura.
9. Watch a Kecak dance
A trip to Bali would be incomplete without seeing a traditional dance performance known as the Kecak dance, which is one of Bali’s artistic masterpieces in the form of dance and musical drama. Catch the famous dance, usually performed in the open air against a dramatic sunset, in which artists relay a version of the Ramayana Saga using no musical instruments but only the chanting of the chorus of men. Best seen at sunset at Uluwatu Temple.
10. Climb a volcano
If you’ve always wanted to climb an active volcano, Mount Batur in Bali is the place to do it. Mount Batur is about 1.5 hours from Ubud and is one of the most magnificent active volcanoes you will ever see. H ire a local tour company and guide to handle the logistics, and spend a few hours exploring the crater whilst enjoying a sunrise breakfast. If you’re not up for the 2 hour climb in the dark, you can use a mountain bike, which is equally thrilling.
Take a look at our Bali bliss itinerary here!
Useful info:
Car rental: Mr. Nyoman Surya +62 81337957660
Ferry: Nusa Star Fish, Golden Queen Nusa (contacts online)
Mount Batur Sunrise trek: www.mountbatursunrisetrekking.com
For accommodation booking: Directly or via https://www.booking.com/