The Complete Bali Travel Guide 2025: Top Things to Do, Budget Tips & Travel Essentials

Welcome to the ultimate Bali travel guide, where adventure, culture, and relaxation meet paradise without breaking the bank. From stunning rice terraces and hidden waterfalls to vibrant beach clubs, temples, and night markets, Bali offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring on a budget, hunting for Instagram-worthy spots, or seeking the best beaches, food, and experiences, this guide will show you the top things to do in Bali, insider tips, and practical advice to make your trip unforgettable.

Best Time To Visit Bali

Bali’s weather varies throughout the year, so here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan your trip:

April – June (Shoulder Season)

• Sunny weather with minimal rain
• Fewer tourists and lower prices
• Ideal for sightseeing, beaches, and outdoor activities

July – August (Peak Season)

• Warm, dry, and sunny
• Most popular time for tourists
• Higher prices and larger crowds

September – October (Shoulder Season)

• Pleasant weather with less rain
• Smaller crowds and better deals
• Great for beaches, temples, and hiking

November – March (Rainy Season)

• Occasional short, heavy showers
• Hot and humid but still plenty of sunshine
• Lower tourist numbers and better bargains

Tip: For a mix of good weather and fewer crowds, aim for the shoulder seasons (April–June or September–October).

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How to Get Around in Bali

Exiting Ngurah Rai International Airport, head to the green Gojek & Grab pickup areas for rides. Avoid local taxis pretending to be Grab drivers—they’re often more expensive. Bali offers several convenient ways to explore, whether you’re budget-conscious or seeking comfort:

1. Renting a Motorbike: Affordable and flexible way to explore beaches, temples, and attractions at your own pace. Rental shops are abundant across the island. Safety tip: Always wear a helmet and familiarize yourself with local traffic rules.

2. Hiring a Private Driver: Ideal for travelers wanting to explore Bali’s hidden gems stress-free. You can customize your itinerary, including airport transfers or full-day tours. Great for groups or travelers with limited time.

3. Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab & Gojek): Widely available, convenient, and budget-friendly. Perfect for short city trips or day trips across Bali. Avoid paying cash at unofficial drivers; always order via the app for security and fair pricing.

Pro Tip: If you’re new to Bali, combining a few of these options is often the easiest way to explore safely and efficiently.

Where To Stay In Bali

Bali offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and cozy homestays. To help you choose, here’s a breakdown of the top areas:

• Ubud – Cultural Heart of Bali:
  Nestled among lush rice terraces and tropical forests, Ubud is perfect for travelers seeking tranquility, wellness retreats, and spiritual experiences.
  Recommended Hotels:
  Utu Homestay
  The Oni Bisma
  Darba Guest House Ubud
• Canggu – Surf & Digital Nomad Hub:
  Known for its laid-back vibe and surf culture, Canggu attracts surfers, digital nomads, and wellness enthusiasts. Accommodation ranges from boutique hotels to surf camps.
  Recommended Hotels:
  Lamun at Canggu
  THE BREEZE Stay and Surf
  ME Villas Kayu Tulang
• Seminyak – Trendy & Vibrant:
  Seminyak is ideal for travelers seeking upscale resorts, trendy boutiques, and lively nightlife, all within walking distance to the beach.
  Recommended Hotels:
  Maisaba Seminyak Loft & Villas
  Kamaniiya Petitenget Seminyak
  D’Primahotel Petitenget Seminyak 2
• Kuta – Bustling & Budget-Friendly:
  If you want a lively atmosphere with plenty of entertainment, markets, and beach activities, Kuta is the place. It’s also great for travelers on a budget.
  Recommended Hotels:
  The Pavilion Hotel Kuta
  Febri’s Hotel & Spa
  Adi Dharma Hotel Kuta

Top 15 Things to Do in Bali

Bali is packed with natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and adventure. Here’s a curated list of must-do experiences for every traveler:

1. Visit Tanah Lot Temple

• Iconic sea temple perched on a rock formation.
• Best time: sunset for breathtaking views.
• Learn about its spiritual and cultural significance.

2. Explore Tegallalang Rice Terraces

• Walk through lush, cascading rice paddies.
• Perfect for photography and soaking in Bali’s agricultural heritage.

3. Discover the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

• Home to playful macaques and ancient temples in Ubud.
• Wander serene pathways surrounded by dense jungle.

4. Relax on Bali’s Best Beaches

• Popular spots: Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu.
• Lounge on golden sands, swim, or enjoy vibrant beachside cafés.

5. Take a Day Trip to Nusa Penida

• Visit iconic spots: Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong.
• Explore pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs.

6. Hike Mount Batur for Sunrise

• Trek volcanic terrain for panoramic views.
• Early morning hike rewards you with stunning sunrise vistas.

7. Dive or Snorkel at Menjangan Island

• Discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
• Ideal for both snorkeling beginners and experienced divers.

8. Experience White Water Rafting

• Thrilling rapids on Ayung or Telaga Waja rivers.
• Enjoy lush jungle scenery while getting your adrenaline fix.

9. Walk the Campuhan Ridge

• Scenic trail in Ubud with rice fields and coconut groves.
• Easy trek for breathtaking landscapes and peaceful moments.

10. Discover Banyumala Twin Waterfalls

• Hidden gem in northern Bali. Swim in clear pools beneath twin cascading waterfalls.

11. Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

• Majestic temple on Lake Bratan surrounded by mountains.
• Explore intricate architecture and serene lakeside views.

12. Take a Holy Dip at Tirta Empul Temple

• Participate in a traditional purification ritual.
• Experience Bali’s spiritual heritage at sacred spring waters.

13. Explore Kelingking Beach (Nusa Penida)

• Dramatic cliff formations and turquoise waters.
• Hike down for a closer look at this iconic location.

14. Enjoy Waterbom Bali

• Southeast Asia’s largest waterpark in Kuta.
• Thrilling rides, family-friendly pools, and a perfect way to beat the tropical heat.
• Waterbom Bali Water Park Review

15. Discover Hidden Waterfalls (Optional Bonus)

• For off-the-beaten-path adventures, visit waterfalls like Sekumpul or Tegenungan.
• Enjoy a more tranquil and less crowded Bali experience.

Pro Tip: Mix cultural experiences, nature adventures, and beach relaxation to make the most of your Bali trip while staying on a budget.

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Must-Try Foods in Bali

Bali’s food scene is as colorful as its landscapes. From hearty street eats to ceremonial dishes, here are the flavors you can’t leave the island without trying:

• Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice) – Indonesia’s iconic comfort dish, stir-fried rice with spices, vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood, usually topped with a fried egg.
• Satay (Grilled Skewers) – Juicy skewers of marinated chicken, beef, or pork served with rich peanut sauce. Best enjoyed from a roadside warung.
• Babi Guling (Suckling Pig) – A Balinese specialty, seasoned with turmeric, garlic, and lemongrass before being roasted to perfection. Traditionally served with rice, lawar, and spicy sambal.
• Mie Goreng (Fried Noodles) – The noodle version of nasi goreng, cooked with vegetables, meat, and a flavorful soy-based sauce.
• Gado-Gado (Vegetable Salad with Peanut Sauce) – A vegetarian favorite made of steamed veggies, tofu, boiled eggs, and lontong (rice cakes), topped with creamy peanut sauce.

👉 Whether you’re eating in a local warung or a trendy Ubud café, these dishes give you a true taste of Bali’s culinary culture.

Best Instagram Spots in Bali

Bali is one of the most photogenic islands in the world, with everything from ancient temples to jungle swings. Here are some must-visit photography spots, grouped by theme:

Temples

• Tanah Lot Temple – Perched on a rocky outcrop in the sea, best captured at sunset.
• Gates of Heaven (Pura Lempuyang) – Famous stone gates framing Mount Agung in the distance.
• Tirta Empul Temple – Known for its holy spring and purification rituals.

Rice Terraces

• Tegallalang Rice Terraces – Iconic cascading fields near Ubud, especially beautiful at golden hour.

Beaches & Coastlines

• Kelingking Beach (Nusa Penida) – A cliffside view shaped like a T-Rex.
• Broken Beach (Nusa Penida) – A natural arch carved by waves.
• Angel’s Billabong (Nusa Penida) – A natural infinity pool with ocean views.
• Uluwatu Temple – A dramatic sunset shot with the temple on the cliffside.

Swings & Waterfalls

• Ubud Jungle Swing – Soar above the trees for that classic Bali photo.
• Tegenungan Waterfall – A powerful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
• Tukad Cepung Waterfall – Famous for its beams of sunlight through a cave opening.

Unique Spots

• Ubud Monkey Forest – Snap a candid with the cheeky macaques (watch your belongings!).
• Handara Gate – A towering Balinese gate with Mount Batur in the background.
• GWK Cultural Park – Home to the towering Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue.

👉 Tip: While these are Bali’s most famous photo spots, don’t forget to explore hidden corners, quiet villages, and lesser-known beaches—sometimes the best shots come from places not on Instagram.

Best Beaches in Bali

1. Canggu Beach
   Famous for its laid-back surf town vibe, Canggu is a hotspot for surfers and backpackers. With great waves, sunset bars, and beachside cafés, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
2. Seminyak Beach
   North of Kuta, Seminyak offers a more upscale feel with boutique resorts, stylish clubs, and golden sands. It’s ideal if you want a balance between luxury, nightlife, and beach relaxation.
3. Jimbaran Beach
   Known for calm waters and some of the best seafood restaurants in Bali, Jimbaran is perfect for a romantic evening by the ocean. Don’t miss the stunning sunset dinners right on the sand.
4. Nusa Dua Beach
   If you’re after soft white sand and calm turquoise waters, Nusa Dua is your spot. With luxury resorts and family-friendly swimming, it’s one of the most relaxing beaches on the island.
5. Uluwatu Beach
   Close to the iconic Uluwatu Temple, this beach is famous for its dramatic cliffs and world-class surf breaks. The views from above are just as breathtaking as the waves below.
6. Batu Bolong Beach
   A favorite for its social vibe and gorgeous sunsets, Batu Bolong sits next to Echo Beach in Canggu. Whether you’re surfing, people-watching, or just chilling with a coconut, it’s a must-visit.

7-Day Bali Adventure Itinerary: How to See the Best of Bali in One Week

Planning just one week in Bali? Don’t worry — with the right itinerary, you can soak in beaches, temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, and even a volcano sunrise. This 7-day Bali adventure balances relaxation, culture, and thrills so you leave with the perfect taste of the Island of the Gods.

Day 1: Arrival in Bali – Settle In

• Arrive in Bali and check into your accommodation.
• Spend the day unwinding and adjusting to the island pace.
• Explore the neighborhood, sample authentic Balinese food, and rest for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Beaches of South Bali

• Kick off your trip at Kuta Beach for sun, sand, and surf.
• Head north to Seminyak for boutique shops, cafés, and a golden-sand stroll.
• End the evening with a seafood dinner on Jimbaran Beach, complete with a legendary Bali sunset.

Day 3: Cultural Ubud

• Travel inland to Ubud, Bali’s cultural capital.
• Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and walk through lush jungle temples.
• Explore local galleries, art markets, and workshops.
• Marvel at the Tegallalang Rice Terraces — one of Bali’s most iconic photo spots.
• Wrap up the day with a traditional Balinese dance performance.

Day 4: Temples & Rice Terraces

• Start with the oceanfront Tanah Lot Temple, one of Bali’s most famous landmarks.
• Continue to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, floating on Lake Bratan.
• Take a short boat ride to enjoy the peaceful mountain setting.
• Walk through the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih Rice Terraces for incredible landscapes. Return to Ubud for a Balinese dinner.

Day 5: Adventure Day – Volcano & Rapids

• Begin before dawn with a hike up Mount Batur for a sunrise you’ll never forget.
• Soak your muscles in Toya Devasya hot springs overlooking the lake.
• In the afternoon, go white-water rafting on the Ayung River, surrounded by jungle cliffs and waterfalls.
• Finish with a rejuvenating Balinese massage back in Ubud.

Day 6: North Bali Highlights

• Visit the lush Gitgit Waterfall, tucked deep in the jungle.
• See the twin lakes of Buyan and Tamblingan, perfect for a peaceful walk.
• Stop by Brahma Vihara Arama, a hillside Buddhist monastery with panoramic views.
• End the day in Lovina on the black-sand beach, where you can take a sunset dolphin boat tour.

Day 7: Departure Day

• Spend your final morning shopping for souvenirs or relaxing at your hotel.
• Check out and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Bali Essentials: Visa, eSIM, Travel Insurance & Adapters

Planning your Bali trip? Make sure you’re ready before you land. Here’s everything you need for a smooth start.

Visa Requirements & Arrival Tips

• Most travelers (USA, UK, Australia) staying less than 30 days need a Visa on Arrival (VoA).
• You can apply online for an eVisa (takes ~2 weeks) or get it at the airport. Online applications are easier: simply walk through the auto-gates, scan your passport, and you’re through.
• Visa on Arrival at the airport: go to the desk, pay the 500,000 IDR (~$32) fee, then join the queue to pass manual immigration. There’s also a fast pass option for an extra $20.
• QR code scan: Bali now requires all arrivals, including Asian passport holders, to complete a digital entry form and scan a QR before exiting.

Stay Connected: SIM Cards & eSIMs

• While Bali has Wi-Fi in cafes and hotels, speeds can vary. For seamless streaming, calls, and uploads, stay connected with mobile data.
• Airport SIM options:
  • Telkomsel – extensive coverage, faster speeds, good for remote areas (e.g., 43GB for 350K IDR)
  • Smartfren – budget-friendly, slightly limited coverage
• Pro Tip: Pre-purchase a Bali eSIM online – cheaper, no passport required, and you’re connected immediately on arrival. Skip the lines and enjoy instant internet.

Travel Insurance: Peace of Mind

Unexpected issues happen. Travel insurance protects against medical emergencies, lost belongings, or flight disruptions. Providers like SafetyWing are reliable for international trips. Being prepared ensures a stress-free adventure.

Electrical Outlets & Travel Adapters

Bali’s standard voltage is 230V; plug types are C & F. If traveling from the USA (120V, Type A/B), bring a voltage converter and travel adapter to safely use your devices.

*As an Amazon, Agoda, Klook, and TravelGuide Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Conclusion

Bali is more than just a tropical island—it’s a mix of adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery. From surfing in Canggu to sunset dinners in Jimbaran, every beach has its own charm. Pair these coastal gems with Bali’s temples, waterfalls, and hidden villages, and you’ll discover why it remains one of the world’s most magical destinations.