Top Things to do in Bali

Bali is considered by many to be a lush paradise, complete with unique hiking, rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, and pristine white and black sandy beaches. Something can be found for everyone. See below some of the most popular activities and best things to do on a Bali vacation.

Why Visit Bali, Indonesia?

Bali, Indonesia, is one of those places that really does have something for everyone. From temples and traditions to beaches, rice fields, and outdoor thrills, the island blends culture, nature, and adventure in a way that feels easy and exciting. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo trip, you’ll never run out of things to do in Bali, Indonesia. The tropical weather makes it a great destination any time of year, too. Ubud is known for its greenery, temples, and laid-back feel, while Uluwatu stands out for its cliffs, surf spots, and ocean views. Canggu and Seminyak are popular for cafes, shopping, and beach clubs, and the Nusa Islands offer clear waters and dramatic coastal scenery. With so many well-known Bali attractions packed into one island, it’s easy to see why travelers keep coming back.

Best Things to Do in Bali

Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind when one hears the word 'Bali' is the word beach. The world-class surfing, snorkeling, and diving around the coastlines of this tiny island have made it one of the world's favorite beach getaway destinations. Surfers can catch big breaks at Kuta and Legian Beaches, and wildlife enthusiasts can spot dolphins at Lovina Beach at sunrise. Snorkelers and swimmers alike can enjoy the restaurants and cafes dotting the laid-back Sanur Beach, and beachcombers in search of the perfect sand castle will find it at Balangan Beach near Uluwatu. Read here detailed descriptions about the best Bali Beaches and decide which ones fit best in your Bali tour.  When you visit Bali, you will find dive and snorkel shops in every beach town that can take you to local snorkeling spots and on full-day diving excursions to Bali's famous dive spots. For those wishing to cut down on nausea-inducing boat rides, plan your Bali trip around proximity to your favorite locations. Here are some of the most popular dive sites in Bali:

Menjangan Island: Located 5 miles northwest of Bali and inside West Bali National Park, this tiny island has some of the best preserved coral reefs in the area and is a diver and snorkeler’s paradise. If you are up in northwestern Bali, make a day visit here a priority.

Amed & Tulamben: the smooth black stone coastline attracts beachcombers of all ages, but more particularly for the famous WWII shipwreck, the USAT Liberty, found just offshore. 

Nusa Lembongan: At just a 45-minute boat ride from Sanur beach, this tiny island offers calmer waters and is teeming with seaweed fishermen. Almost all of its bays are great for snorkeling as the visibility tends to be good year-round.

Nusa Dua Beach and PadangBai Beach: Both beaches also offer some great off-shore snorkeling. Visibility may be cloudy during the shoulder and rainy seasons, and currents may be strong. 
  Those wanting an active vacation in Bali will not be disappointed. Avid hikers can choose from a variety of landscapes that offer amazing views and wildlife spotting opportunities. The Mount Batur caldera in Kintamani offers breathtaking views of the sunrise. This easy 2-hour hike attracts many visitors as the trail is well-marked and the views are well worth the effort. Hike through the Munduk region to experience traditional villages, waterfalls, and views of terraced hills.

Hikers and nature lovers will find that a few days in West Bali National Park (or Bali Barat National Park) are well worth the time. Several habitats can be found in its borders, such as primary monsoon forest, mangroves, savannah, coral reefs, and sandy beaches. The park protects over 160 species of birds, along with other mammals and many endangered ones. Within the marine confines of the park, over 110 coral species have been identified, and Menjangan Island is a popular destination for snorkelers and divers. Four volcanoes mark the center of the park, with Mt Agung creating the most convenient access point to the park at its base. Six villages of mixed ethnicity also border the park and offer an intriguing insight into the local culture. In practically every region of the island, a temple or two can be found for those enthusiasts intrigued by the mix of religions found in Indonesia. Here are some of the most well-known and commonly visited ones.

Besakih Temple: The largest of the Balinese temples (and most heavily visited), this Hindu ‘mother temple’ sits on Mount Agung high above the ocean. Explore the 18 separate sanctuaries created for varying caste members.

Uluwatu Temple (or Pura Luhur): Perched on a high limestone cliff over the Indian Ocean, this majestic temple offers amazing views and intriguing history for those traveling to the Bukit Peninsula to see it. Enjoy also a sunset kecak fire dance at night in this area, or the monkey forest bordering the temple grounds.

Pura Tanah Lot: Using a rock formation as its foundation along the water’s edge in Uruwatu, this iconic temple is known for its serenity and significance in Balinese mythology. Explore the formation during low tide and walk across the rocks to the temple, and learn about this important sea temple.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: This famous temple is located along the water’s edge of Lake Bratan.
  This delightful city is considered by many to be the heart of Bali and the artistic and cultural center for the island. Get a taste of everything the island of Bali has to offer wrapped into one day visit here. Experience nature with a walk in the Ubud Monkey Forest and learn about the grey long-tailed macaque and the ongoing scientific research in the area. Wander the scenic Tegallalang rice terraces here and see the local culture going about its daily routine. Visit temples or museums to learn about the history of Bali. For the more adventurous, outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting can be booked here. 

Explore Ubud’s Rice Terraces and Art Markets
Ubud is the kind of place where you can slow down and actually enjoy being present. Walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces early in the morning to see farmers at work and soft light settling over the fields. It’s calm, quiet, and worth the early start. Head into town to visit Ubud Palace, then wander nearby art markets where you’ll find handmade crafts, paintings, and easy souvenirs to bring home. If you want a nature break, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary offers shaded paths, temples, and plenty of cheeky monkeys along the way. Ubud is also known for yoga classes and wellness retreats, making it a great stop if you want to reset between busy travel days. For practical tips on timing, transport, and basics, you can contact one of our trip planners here.

Chase Bali’s Waterfalls
If you’re craving fresh air and that cool mist on your skin, Bali’s waterfalls are worth the drive. Sekumpul is the showstopper, with multiple falls crashing through lush jungle after a short hike that feels like an adventure. Tegenungan is easier to reach and great if you want a quick stop with powerful water flow and photo-worthy views. Up north, Gitgit feels quieter and more relaxed, surrounded by greenery and walking paths. The best way to do this is by turning it into a northern Bali road trip, think winding roads, mountain views, and waterfall stops that make the journey just as memorable as the destination.

Visit the Nusa Islands
A trip to the Nusa Islands is one of the best add-ons to any Bali itinerary. Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan are known for dramatic cliffs, clear blue water, and a more laid-back feel compared to mainland Bali. This is where you go for snorkeling with colorful fish, diving with manta rays, or hiking along jaw-dropping coastal paths. Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan are easier and calmer, while Nusa Penida feels wilder and more rugged. 

Experience Traditional Balinese Culture
To truly experience traditional Balinese culture, spend time with the island’s daily rituals, music, and community life. Watch a powerful Kecak dance at Uluwatu as the sun sets, or catch a graceful Legong performance in Ubud, where dance is still part of everyday life. Step into local villages to see artisans hand-carving wood, weaving baskets, or preparing offerings, and if you’re lucky, you’ll witness a temple ceremony happening naturally, not staged. These moments feel personal and real, giving you a deeper sense of how culture is lived in Bali, not just performed for visitors.

Trek Mount Batur at Sunrise
Trekking Mount Batur at sunrise is one of those early wake-ups that actually feels worth it. You start the hike in the dark, headlamp on, with cool mountain air and the quiet hum of fellow hikers around you. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with wide crater views, Lake Batur below, and the sun slowly lighting up the sky in soft oranges and pinks. After the hike, many tours stop by a nearby coffee plantation where you can relax, sip fresh local coffee, and ease those tired legs, an ideal way to wind down after an unforgettable morning.

Indulge in Balinese Cuisine
Indulging in Balinese cuisine is one of the best parts of being in Bali. Start with nasi campur, a plate piled with rice and small portions of meat, vegetables, and sambal, then move on to babi guling, Bali’s famous roast pork with crispy skin and bold seasoning. Lawar adds a local touch with its mix of vegetables, coconut, and minced meat, while satay lilit stands out with minced seafood or meat wrapped around lemongrass sticks and grilled until smoky and tender. If you want more than just a meal, join a local food tour or sign up for a cooking class. You’ll eat well, learn how the dishes are made, and understand why Balinese food leaves such a strong impression long after the trip ends.

Dive and Snorkel in East Bali
Diving and snorkeling in East Bali is one of those experiences that stays with you long after the trip. Tulamben is famous for the USS Liberty shipwreck, where you can swim right over coral-covered steel and spot turtles, reef fish, and even schools of jackfish, no boat needed. Amed is more laid-back, with calm waters, colorful coral gardens, and easy shore entry that’s great for beginners and relaxed snorkel days. If you want something more pristine, Menjangan Island offers clear water, dramatic drop-offs, and some of the healthiest reefs in Bali. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced diver, East Bali delivers underwater scenes that feel calm, raw, and unforgettable.

Visit Bali’s Hidden Spots
If you want to see a quieter, more laid-back side of Bali, head beyond the busy beach towns and spend time in places like Sidemen Valley, Jatiluwih, Munduk, and Candidasa. These areas move at a slower pace, with rice fields, misty hills, waterfalls, and small villages where daily life feels refreshingly real. It’s where you can enjoy the scenery without crowds, hear nature instead of traffic, and feel like you’ve stepped into a calmer version of the island. Perfect for travelers who enjoy going a little off the usual route and discovering places that still feel peaceful and personal.

Plan Your Trip to Bali

Planning your trip is just as important as choosing the things to do in Bali, Indonesia. A little preparation goes a long way, from picking the right season to deciding where to stay and how to get around. Bali is easy to plan for, but knowing these basics will help you make the most of your time once you arrive.

Best Time to Visit Bali
The dry season, from April to October, is the best time for outdoor activities such as beach days, hiking, and island hopping. Expect sunny weather and calm seas, especially from June to September. The wet season, which runs from November to March, is accompanied by occasional heavy rain, but it also means fewer crowds and better hotel deals. For a full breakdown, check our Indonesia packages.

Getting Around
Getting around Bali is fairly simple. Many travelers rent scooters for short distances, especially in areas like Canggu and Ubud. Private drivers are a popular option for day trips and longer routes, while Grab taxis work well in main towns and tourist areas for quick rides.

Where to Stay
Bali has accommodation for every travel style. You’ll find luxury resorts in Seminyak and Nusa Dua, peaceful boutique stays in Ubud, and plenty of budget-friendly villas across Canggu. Choosing where to stay often depends on whether you want beach time, nightlife, or a quieter setting.

Extend Your Trip
If you have extra days, Bali pairs well with nearby destinations. Add Java for temples and volcanoes, Komodo National Park for wildlife and island views, or Borneo for rainforest adventures. Combining destinations makes the journey even more rewarding without adding too much travel time.