Bali, Indonesia
Important Information
Visa exemption / Short tourist stays
Visa:
Many nationalities eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA) — valid 30 days, extendable once.
e-VOA can be applied for online before arrival (recommended).
Passport Validity: Minimum 6 months on entry.
Departure Tax: Usually included in your airline ticket.
Important things to watch
The cost for VoA/e-VoA is around IDR 500,000 (approx. AUD 50) for the 30-day tourist visa.
Make sure you apply via the official government site for the e-VoA if choosing that route (to avoid scams).
If you plan to stay more than 60 days on a tourist visa type, you’ll need to switch to a different visa category.
Overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation, or worse — so keep track of your allowed stay.
Even if you use VoA, you must obey the purpose of the visa (tourism) — working or being paid locally may violate the terms.
Summary — what you should do before you go
Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Indonesia.
At least one blank page in your passport (for entry/exit stamps).
Proof of onward travel or return flight.
Be prepared to pay the tourist levy of IDR 150,000 (approx. AUD 15) for entry into Bali. Smartraveller+1
If using the electronic arrival/declaration system: complete the required digital arrival/declaration form (the “All Indonesia” arrival card) if applicable.
Health & Safety
Recommended (not mandatory):
Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Tetanus / Diphtheria
Rabies (for long stays or animal contact)
COVID-19: Proof of vaccination is no longer required (as of 2024), but it’s good to have documentation handy.
Check with your doctor or a travel clinic 4–6 weeks before your trip.
Tap water: Not safe to drink. Use bottled or filtered water — including for brushing teeth.
Ice: Usually safe in restaurants and hotels (made from purified water).
Street food: Generally fine — choose busy, clean vendors and avoid food sitting out.
Fruits/vegetables: Peel or wash with bottled water when possible
Diseases present: Dengue fever, chikungunya, and (rarely) Zika.
Precautions:
Use repellent with DEET or picaridin.
Wear long sleeves/pants at dusk.
Sleep under a mosquito net or in AC rooms.
Remove standing water near your villa.
Transport & Roads
Bali’s transport network is limited and congested, especially in the south (Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu, Denpasar, Ubud).
There’s no metro or train system, so most travel is by road — via scooters, taxis, or private drivers.- Scooters are The most common way to get around, especially for solo travelers.
Rent cost: IDR 70,000–150,000 /day (AUD 7–15) depending on model.
Fuel: Cheap — around IDR 13,000 /liter (~AUD 1.30).
License:
You need an international driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement (Category A).
Police frequently stop tourists — fines are IDR 250,000–500,000 if you don’t have it.
Safety:
Always wear a helmet (legally required).
Avoid riding in the rain or at night — roads can be poorly lit and slippery.
Keep an eye out for dogs, potholes, and sudden traffic moves.
Blue Bird Group is the most reliable (blue cars, meters visible).
App options: Grab, Gojek, Maxim — all available for car or scooter rides.
Some areas (especially around Ubud and Canggu) have local taxi cooperatives that restrict app pickups — in those zones, you may need to walk to a pickup point or hire a local driver.
Fares: Reasonable — short trips (10–20 min) are usually IDR 50,000–100,000 (AUD 5–10).
Ideal for day trips (Ubud, waterfalls, temples, or Nusa Dua tours).
Typical rate: IDR 600,000–900,000 /day (~AUD 60–90) for 8–10 hours including fuel.
Can be arranged via your hotel, tour desk, or apps like Klook or GetYourGuide.
Drivers often double as informal guides and speak decent English.
Limited and slow.
The Perama Tour Bus runs between main tourist hubs (Kuta–Ubud–Padangbai–Lovina).
Kura-Kura Bus offers fixed routes around South Bali — comfortable but infrequent.
Most locals use private scooters or minibuses (bemo), which are confusing for tourists.
Money & Payments
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Coins: Rp100, Rp200, Rp500, Rp1,000
Notes: Rp1,000, Rp2,000, Rp5,000, Rp10,000, Rp20,000, Rp50,000, Rp100,000
(Rp100,000 ≈ AUD 10 or USD 6–7)Best exchange rates:
In tourist areas (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud).
Look for official, licensed money changers with clear signage and receipts.
Avoid:
Small, dark kiosks offering rates far higher than banks — they often shortchange you.
ATMs:
Widely available at banks, malls, and minimarts.
Choose ATMs inside buildings or monitored areas to avoid skimming.
Most ATMs dispense Rp50,000 or Rp100,000 notes — check the label.
Max withdrawal per transaction is usually Rp2–3 million (≈ AUD 200–300).
💡 Pro tip: Use ATMs attached to major banks like BNI, BCA, Mandiri, or CIMB Niaga.
Weather & Clothing
South Bali (Kuta, Canggu, Seminyak): Hot and coastal — light beachwear.
Ubud & central highlands: Cooler, more rain — bring a light jacket.
North Bali (Lovina, Munduk): More humid and lush — expect more frequent showers.
Mount Batur / Bedugul: Can drop to 15–18°C at night — pack warm layers for early hikes.
- Everyday Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics — cotton, linen, bamboo
- Loose-fitting tops, shorts, or sundresses
- Swimsuits, rash guards for water activities
- A light scarf or sarong (useful for sun protection or temple visits)
- Hat and sunglasses
Travel & Safety Tips
Overall risk: Low–moderate — Bali is friendly and welcoming.
Main risks: Road accidents, petty theft, scams, and natural hazards (volcanoes, earthquakes).
Police presence: Visible in tourist zones; most officers are polite if treated respectfully.
Pickpocketing & bag snatching:
Happens in crowded areas or nightlife districts (Kuta, Legian).
Use cross-body bags and keep valuables out of sight.
Hotel safes: Store passports, spare cash, and electronics.
Money changers:
Use official ones with glass booths and printed receipts.
Avoid tiny roadside stalls offering higher rates — they’re often scams.
Tourist traps:
“Free tours” that lead to shops.
Overpriced taxis or activities without clear pricing.
ATMs:
Stick to machines attached to banks or major stores.
Cover your PIN — card skimming occasionally happens.
Drugs & Medication
Zero-Tolerance Policy
Indonesia has extremely strict drug laws — among the harshest in the world.
Even small amounts can result in long prison sentences, and trafficking can carry the death penalty.
All forms of illegal narcotics, including:
Marijuana (cannabis) — strictly banned, even CBD oil and edibles
Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, ecstasy, LSD, magic mushrooms
Prescription medications not approved by Indonesia’s health ministry (unless you carry a doctor’s letter)
THC vapes or e-liquids are illegal. Even small vape cartridges with THC have led to arrests.
🧠 Tip: Even if something is legal in your country (e.g. cannabis in Australia or the US), it is 100% illegal in Indonesia — no exceptions.
You can bring most prescribed medications for personal use, but:
Carry them in original packaging.
Bring a copy of your prescription and a doctor’s letter (in English).
Only carry quantities for personal use (usually up to 30 days).
Some medications containing codeine, morphine, or strong stimulants require prior clearance.
To check if your medication is restricted, you can contact the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate before traveling.
Alcohol Laws
Alcohol is legal in Bali and widely available — it’s a Hindu-majority island within Indonesia, which is otherwise predominantly Muslim.
Legal drinking age: 21 years old (officially), though enforcement can be inconsistent.
Alcohol can be purchased in:
Hotels, restaurants, bars, beach clubs
Licensed convenience stores (Circle K, Mini Mart, Pepito)
Public drunkenness and disorderly behavior, however, can lead to fines or police attention — especially near temples or family areas.
This is the #1 alcohol-related danger in Bali.
Some cheap or counterfeit local liquors (especially arak or fake spirits) are illegally mixed with methanol, a toxic alcohol that can cause blindness or death.
Cases still occur, especially in small bars or homemade drinks.
Stay safe by:
✅ Only drinking sealed, branded beverages (Bintang, Bali Hai, Smirnoff, etc.)
✅ Avoiding home-brewed arak unless it’s from a verified, licensed source.
✅ Watching your drink being poured.
✅ Never leaving your glass unattended.
Dress & Respecting Local Customs
Temple & Religious Sites
Shoulders covered (short sleeves ok, but no strapless tops)
Knees covered — long pants, long skirts, or sarongs
Sarong and sash: Often provided at temples; required for men and women
Footwear: Remove shoes before entering temple compounds
Do not step on offerings (canang sari) placed on the ground — these are daily offerings to the gods
Do not touch temple statues or sacred objects
Speak quietly, avoid loud gestures
Women should avoid entering temples during menstruation — traditional custom
Carrying Identification & Other Rules
Passport: Mandatory for all foreigners.
Keep the original in a hotel safe.
Carry a photocopy or digital photo while exploring.
Driver’s License:
International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if driving a car or scooter.
Always carry both your IDP and your home country license.
Visa Documentation:
Keep a copy of your tourist visa or VOA receipt.
Travel Insurance Card/Info:
Helpful in emergencies for hospitals or police.
Respecting Religion, Social Protocol & Royalty
Religious sites must be treated with respect. For example, acts that insult religious objects or places may carry prison terms and/or fines.
Public behaviour is expected to align with local customs — e.g., showing respect to the monarchy, being modest in behaviour in some contexts.
Cultural Etiquette
Bali is predominantly Hindu, and religious customs are central to daily life.
Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees in temples and sacred areas. Sarongs and sashes are often provided.
Remove shoes before entering temple compounds.
Offerings (canang sari):
Found everywhere on the ground — never step on them.
Don’t move, touch, or disturb them.
Ceremonies & rituals:
Stand quietly on the side, do not block processions.
Ask before taking photos
Things Especially Important for Australians Travelling
Register travel with Smartraveller for updates on safety and health.
Use reputable drivers, tour operators, and transport apps.
Respect religious and cultural practices — it avoids fines and social friction.
Avoid public criticism of religion, royalty, or government.
Keep emergency numbers, embassy contacts, and travel insurance info accessible.
Legal & Miscellaneous
Passport & ID: Originals in hotel safe; carry copies or digital backup.
Travel insurance: Essential for accidents, illness, or theft.
Emergency numbers:
Police: 110
Ambulance: 118 / 119
Fire: 113
Embassy contact (Australians):
Australian Consulate-General Bali, +62 361 2000 100
Currency regulations: Avoid carrying excessive amounts; declare large cash at customs.
Customs restrictions: Limited alcohol import, no narcotics, strict rules on some medications.
Regions
Bali offers diverse experiences: South Bali is lively and beach-focused, Central/Ubud is cultural and wellness-oriented, East Bali is tranquil and adventurous, North Bali is quiet and nature-rich, West Bali is remote and eco-friendly, and the offshore islands provide scenic, relaxed island escapes.
South Bali
Overview:
The most visited part of Bali, South Bali is a mix of bustling tourist hubs, upscale resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Perfect for beach lovers, surfers, and first-time visitors.
Key Beaches & Locations:
Kuta Beach – surfing, nightlife
Seminyak Beach – sunset bars, boutique shopping
Canggu – black sand beaches, surf breaks
Jimbaran – calm beach, famous for seafood dinners
Nusa Dua – safe, family-friendly, white sand
Uluwatu – clifftop beaches, hidden surf spots
Activities & Attractions:
Surfing and lessons
Beach clubs and sunset bars
Water sports: jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling
Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance
Tanah Lot Temple (on the western coast)
Food & Dining:
Trendy cafés in Seminyak and Canggu
Seafood on Jimbaran Beach
International cuisine, fine dining, rooftop restaurants
Warungs (local eateries) for affordable Indonesian food
Vibe:
Busy, tourist-centric, lively, upscale in Seminyak/Nusa Dua
Party-friendly, energetic, social
East Bali
Overview:
Cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by lush rice terraces and forested hills. Focus on wellness, art, and spirituality.
Key Beaches & Locations:
No beaches — inland area
Key locations: Ubud town, Monkey Forest, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Campuhan Ridge
Activities & Attractions:
Yoga and wellness retreats
Art galleries, traditional craft markets
Temple visits: Pura Taman Saraswati, Gunung Kawi
Rice terrace trekking, cycling tours
Monkey Forest sanctuary
Food & Dining:
Organic cafés, vegetarian and vegan options
Local warungs and traditional Balinese cuisine
Fine dining with jungle or river views
Vibe:
Calm, spiritual, artistic, eco-conscious
Best for relaxation, culture, wellness
Central Bali/Ubud
Overview:
Cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by lush rice terraces and forested hills. Focus on wellness, art, and spirituality.
Key Beaches & Locations:
No beaches — inland area
Key locations: Ubud town, Monkey Forest, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Campuhan Ridge
Activities & Attractions:
Yoga and wellness retreats
Art galleries, traditional craft markets
Temple visits: Pura Taman Saraswati, Gunung Kawi
Rice terrace trekking, cycling tours
Monkey Forest sanctuary
Food & Dining:
Organic cafés, vegetarian and vegan options
Local warungs and traditional Balinese cuisine
Fine dining with jungle or river views
Vibe:
Calm, spiritual, artistic, eco-conscious
Best for relaxation, culture, wellness
North Bali
Overview:
Quiet, less touristy, and surrounded by forests, waterfalls, and volcanoes. Ideal for nature lovers.
Key Beaches & Locations:
Lovina – black sand beaches, dolphin watching
Pemuteran – coral reefs, diving
Singaraja – historic colonial town
Activities & Attractions:
Dolphin tours at sunrise
Trekking to waterfalls: Gitgit, Sekumpul
Hot springs and natural pools
Snorkeling and diving in coral-rich areas
Food & Dining:
Small family-owned warungs
Seafood and traditional Balinese cuisine
Limited upscale dining; mostly mid-range options
Vibe:
Peaceful, quiet, rural
Nature-oriented, relaxed, authentic Balinese life
West Bali
Overview:
Mainly Bali Barat National Park, largely undeveloped, ideal for eco-tourism and adventure.
Key Beaches & Locations:
Menjangan Island – pristine beaches, snorkeling, diving
West Bali National Park – mangroves, savannahs, jungle trails
Activities & Attractions:
Trekking and wildlife spotting
Snorkeling and diving at Menjangan Island
Birdwatching, cycling, and eco-tours
Camping or guided nature tours
Food & Dining:
Very limited — mostly small local cafés and basic accommodations
Best to bring snacks or rely on accommodations in the park
Vibe:
Remote, untouched, adventurous
Ideal for eco-tourists and those seeking solitude
Offshore Islands
Overview:
Short boat trips from Bali; spectacular cliffs, beaches, and diving.
Key Islands:
Nusa Penida – Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Crystal Bay
Nusa Lembongan – mangrove forests, Dream Beach, water sports
Nusa Ceningan – Blue Lagoon, cliff jumping spots
Gili Islands (via Lombok) – diving, snorkeling, relaxed island vibe
Activities & Attractions:
Snorkeling and diving with manta rays
Beach hopping, cliff viewpoints
Surfing and paddleboarding
Island tours by scooter or boat
Food & Dining:
Island cafés and beach warungs
Seafood and Indonesian dishes
Limited fine dining; mostly casual eateries
Vibe:
Adventurous, Instagram-worthy landscapes
Relaxed island life, quieter than South Bali
Popular for day trips or 2–3 day stays
Recommended Things To Do
Families
Beaches & Water Fun
Nusa Dua: Safe, calm waters, perfect for young children.
Sanur: Gentle waves, bike paths along the beach.
Jimbaran Beach: Sunset dinners with family-friendly seafood warungs.
Animal & Nature Experiences
Bali Safari and Marine Park: Safari drive, animal shows, interactive experiences.
Monkey Forest (Ubud): Observe macaques in a forest setting; older kids only (supervised).
Bali Bird Park: Exotic birds, feeding experiences, and shows.
Lovina Dolphin Tours (North Bali): Sunrise boat trips to spot dolphins.
Theme Parks & Interactive Attractions
Waterbom Bali (Kuta)
- Type: Water park
Highlights:
World-class slides and water rides
Lazy river and kid-friendly splash areas
Restaurants and lounge areas
Best For: Families, teens, and adults
- Tips: Arrive early to avoid queues; sunscreen and hats recommended
Splash Water Park (Canggu / Kuta)
Type: Water park for younger children
Highlights:
Smaller, safe pools and slides
Shallow areas for toddlers
Best For: Young kids and family groups
Bali Safari & Marine Park (Gianyar)
Type: Safari park and animal sanctuary
Highlights:
Safari drive with lions, tigers, elephants
Animal shows and interactive feeding experiences
Night safari available for adventurous families
Best For: Families, wildlife enthusiasts
Tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent
Bali Treetop Adventure Park (Bedugul)
Type: Adventure park / outdoor rope course
Highlights:
Zip lines, rope bridges, obstacle courses
Courses for different age groups
Best For: Older children, teens, and adults
Tips: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; supervision required for young kids
Adventure & Outdoor Fun
Flying Hanuman Zipline (Kathu) – zip through jungle canopies safely.
ATV or buggy tours – family adventures through forests and beaches (minimum age varies).
Island Hopping Tours – Phi Phi Islands, Coral Island, or James Bond Island.
Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay – explore limestone caves and lagoons.
Cultural & Educational Activities
Adventure & Outdoor Attractions
Bali Swing (Ubud / Gianyar): Giant swings over rice terraces — great photo opportunities
Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Scenic walking and cycling
Bali Zoo & Reptile Park: Interactive animal experiences for children
Family Dining & Markets
Nook Bali (Umalas)
Rice-field views
Outdoor play area for kids
Calm and spacious; best for breakfast/lunch
Village Bali (Pererenan / Canggu)
Outdoor seating, relaxed vibe
Quiet environment for toddlers and young children
Mai Main Playground & Café (Canggu)
Indoor/outdoor play zones (trampolines, slides)
Great for rainy or hot days
Supervision required
Breeze at Samabe (Nusa Dua)
Beachfront dining
Kids menu available
Safe beachfront for children
Warung Made (Seminyak)
Casual Balinese food
Spacious seating for families
Mild dishes suitable for kids.
Badung Market (Denpasar)
Large, colorful, cultural immersion
Visit early morning for cooler temperatures
Keep kids close in crowds
Samadi Sunday Market (Canggu)
Organic produce, artisan goods
Relaxed family-friendly vibe
Fresh fruit and snacks for kids
Ubud Art Market (Ubud)
Handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs
Great for older kids interested in arts
Carry small cash for bargaining
Kumbasari Art Market (Denpasar)
Traditional Balinese souvenirs and local food
Less touristy; cultural exposure for children
Sanur Night Market (Sanur)
Street food, snacks, small games
Evening visit for casual dining and local treats
Relaxation & Easy Family Days
Nusa Dua Beach
Calm, shallow waters perfect for young children
Soft white sand, family-friendly resorts nearby
Sun loungers, umbrellas, and beachfront cafés
Sanur Beach
Gentle waves, long promenade for walking or cycling
Bicycle rental available for family rides
Evening sunset strolls
Jimbaran Beach
Quiet stretches for kids to play safely
Famous for beachfront seafood dinners
Sunset views for the whole family
Tegallalang Rice Terraces (Ubud)
Easy walks through iconic rice terraces
Photography opportunities and calm environment
Short guided walks available for families
Botanic Garden & Bedugul
Bali Botanical Garden: nature trails, picnic areas
Children-friendly walking paths
Cool mountain climate
Waterfalls for Easy Visits
Tegenungan Waterfall – accessible, safe viewing areas
Gitgit Waterfall – short family-friendly trek
Bring water shoes for shallow splash areas
Monkey Forest (Ubud) – supervised visits, safe for older children
Bali Bird Park – interactive feeding experiences, short strolls
Bali Safari & Marine Park – safari drive, animal shows, convenient day trips
Bali Treetop Adventure Park – small obstacle courses for kids, or just watch if preferring a calmer day
Inclusive & Accessible
Accessible Beach & Ocean Experiences
Nusa Dua Beach
Wide, paved access paths; wheelchair-friendly promenades
Calm, shallow waters suitable for swimming and wading
Beach wheelchairs sometimes available at major resorts
Sanur Beach
Flat promenade along the beachfront; wheelchair-accessible paths
Gentle waves, safe for kids and mobility-limited visitors
Accessible cafés and restroom facilities along the beach
Jimbaran Beach
Some beach access points with ramps and beach mats
Calm waters for swimming and family beach dinners
Sunset dining accessible from beachfront restaurants
Waterparks
Waterbom Bali (Kuta): Accessible pathways, ramps, and some accessible rides
Splash Water Park (Canggu): Family-friendly, some facilities accessible, check with staff for wheelchair access
Cultural & City Attractions (Accessible)
Ubud Palace & Ubud Art Market
Ramped entrances and flat pathways in palace grounds
Some art shops have step-free access; crowded areas may need supervision
Tanah Lot & Uluwatu Temples
Limited accessibility for steep stairs, but some viewpoints accessible by car or shuttle
Consider using viewpoints rather than climbing stairs
Bali Museum & Denpasar City Sites
Wheelchair-friendly ramps, accessible restrooms
Quiet museums offer relaxed cultural exploration
Nature & Animal Encounters
Bali Safari & Marine Park (Gianyar)
Safari drive accessible by vehicle, some shows accessible to wheelchair users
Wheelchair rental available
Bali Bird Park (Gianyar)
Flat walking paths, accessible cages and feeding areas
Bird shows designed to be viewed from seated positions
Botanic Gardens, Bedugul
Wide paved paths, accessible toilets, picnic areas
Monkey Forest (Ubud)
Partial accessibility; some areas uneven — best for visitors with some mobility
Leisure & Entertainment
Trans Studio Bali (Denpasar)
Fully indoor, air-conditioned, accessible pathways
Some rides suitable for wheelchair users; check height and mobility restrictions
Bali Fun World & Mini Zoo
Flat surfaces, interactive animal areas for children and mobility-limited visitors
Bali Swing (Ubud)
Limited accessibility for swings; best for photos from nearby viewpoints
Dining & Relaxed Experiences
Accessible restaurants & cafés:
Nook Bali (Umalas) – ramps and spacious outdoor seating
Village Bali (Pererenan) – step-free access and relaxed outdoor areas
Breeze at Samabe (Nusa Dua) – beachfront dining with accessible pathways
Many resorts in Nusa Dua, Seminyak, and Sanur offer accessible dining, ramps, and family-friendly environments
Family-friendly cafés often provide space for strollers, wheelchairs, and quiet dining
Accessible Transportation Options
Grab / Gojek cars – request larger vehicles for wheelchair storage
Private accessible drivers – many companies provide vans with ramps or lift assistance
Bali airport (Ngurah Rai) – wheelchair assistance on request; accessible restrooms
Resort shuttles – many luxury resorts in Nusa Dua and Seminyak offer accessible transport
Wellness & Relaxation
Spas with wheelchair access – many resorts in Nusa Dua and Seminyak have accessible spa rooms
Yoga & wellness studios – some offer adaptive yoga programs for limited mobility
Botanical gardens & rice terraces – quiet areas for meditation and relaxed strolls
Resort pools – many family-friendly resorts have ramps or pool lifts for accessibility
For the Adults
Beach & Island Escapes
Seminyak Beach
Trendy beach clubs (Ku De Ta, Potato Head)
Sunbathing, cocktails, sunset views
Canggu Beaches
Surfing hotspot with laid-back vibe
Black sand beaches, casual cafés
Nusa Dua & Jimbaran
Calm, luxurious beaches
Water sports, seaside dining
Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan
Cliffside beaches, snorkeling, diving
Crystal Bay, Kelingking Beach, Devil’s Tear
Gili Islands (via Lombok)
White sand, turquoise water
Snorkeling, paddleboarding, relaxed island vibe
Adventure & Outdoor Activities
Surfing Lessons – Kuta, Canggu, Uluwatu
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling – Amed, Nusa Lembongan, Tulamben (USAT Liberty Wreck)
Hiking – Mount Batur sunrise trek, Mount Agung (for experienced trekkers)
Water Sports – Jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding in Nusa Dua & Tanjung Benoa
White Water Rafting – Ayung River, Telaga Waja River
Culture & Sightseeing
Seminyak – Rooftop bars, beach clubs, live DJ sets
Canggu – Trendy bars, sunset lounges, live music
Kuta – Nightclubs and party scene, beer gardens
Ubud – Evening cultural performances, jazz bars, quiet lounges
Beach Clubs – Finns Beach Club, Sundays Beach Club, Ku De Ta
Nightlife & Entertainment
Seminyak – Rooftop bars, beach clubs, live DJ sets
Canggu – Trendy bars, sunset lounges, live music
Kuta – Nightclubs and party scene, beer gardens
Ubud – Evening cultural performances, jazz bars, quiet lounges
Beach Clubs – Finns Beach Club, Sundays Beach Club, Ku De Ta
Food & Culinary Experiences
Fine Dining
Sarong, Merah Putih (Seminyak), Bebek Tepi Sawah (Ubud)
Casual & Trendy Cafés
Café Organic, Betelnut Café, Nook Bali
Local Balinese Cuisine
Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka (Ubud) – traditional roast pork
Seafood on Jimbaran Beach
Cooking Classes & Culinary Tours
Learn Balinese dishes with local chefs
Spice plantations & farm-to-table tours
Relaxation & Wellness
Spas & Massage
Karsa Spa (Ubud), Bodyworks (Seminyak), Prana Spa (Seminyak)
Couples massages and luxury wellness packages
Yoga & Meditation
Yoga Barn (Ubud), Desa Seni (Canggu)
Sunset yoga on the beach
Resort Pools & Infinity Pools
Nusa Dua, Seminyak, Jimbaran – luxury resorts with poolside relaxation
Romantic & Scenic Activities
Sunset at Uluwatu Temple – Kecak Fire Dance for dramatic view
Dinner on the Beach – Jimbaran seafood dinners at sunset
Private Cruises – Nusa Lembongan or Benoa Harbor
Cliffside Bars – Rock Bar (Bali), El Kabron (Uluwatu)
Rice Terrace Walks – Tegallalang for quiet, scenic strolls
Couples Yoga & Spa Retreats – Ubud & Canggu
Pro Tip
Transport: Use private drivers or Grab/Gojek for convenience; traffic can be heavy
Safety: Always check weather conditions for surfing, diving, or hiking
Local Etiquette: Respect temples, modest attire in cultural sites
Timing: Sunset hours are prime for beaches, clubs, and photography
Reservations: Book fine dining and popular beach clubs in advance
Cash & Cards: Small denominations for warungs; cards widely accepted in larger restaurants and resorts
Dress Code: Beach casual for day, smart casual for evening dining and bars
Food & Shopping
Local Dishes to Try
Babi Guling – Balinese roasted pork, usually for lunch (Ibu Oka in Ubud is famous)
Bebek Betutu – Slow-cooked duck wrapped in banana leaves
Sate Lilit – Minced seafood or chicken satay wrapped around lemongrass sticks
Lawar – Traditional Balinese salad with coconut, vegetables, and minced meat
Ayam Betutu – Spiced, roasted chicken dish
Nasi Campur – Mixed rice with small portions of meats, vegetables, and sambal
Where to Eat
Fine Dining:
Sarong, Merah Putih (Seminyak) – upscale Indonesian and Asian fusion
La Lucciola, Breeze at Samabe (Nusa Dua) – beachfront and romantic options
Casual & Trendy Cafés:
Café Organic (Seminyak), Betelnut Café (Canggu), Nook Bali (Umalas)
Great for fresh, healthy meals and relaxed atmosphere
Local Warungs:
Ibu Oka (Ubud) – Babi Guling
Warung Babi Guling Men Agus, Warung Made (Seminyak)
Affordable, authentic Balinese food
Food Experiences:
Balinese cooking classes (Ubud, Canggu)
Night food tours for street food tasting
Rice terrace farm-to-table experiences
Street Markets & Local Finds
Ubud Art Market – Handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs
Badung Market (Denpasar) – Fresh produce, spices, local snacks
Sanur Night Market – Street food, local crafts, casual vibe
Samadi Sunday Market (Canggu) – Organic produce, artisanal products
Tips: Bargain politely, go early for cooler temperatures, keep an eye on valuables
Shopping Malls & Boutiques
Beachwalk Shopping Center (Kuta) – International brands, dining options
Seminyak Village & Seminyak Square – Boutique stores, local designer labels
Discovery Shopping Mall (Kuta) – Large mall with mix of local and global brands
Mal Bali Galeria (Kuta) – Family-friendly, dining and entertainment options
Specialty & Cultural Shops
Tegallalang Shops (Ubud) – Traditional textiles, handmade crafts, batik
Celuk Village – Silver and gold jewelry workshops
Mas Village (Ubud) – Wood carving and artisan shops
Batuan & Sukawati Art Markets – Paintings, handicrafts, and cultural souvenirs
Combine Shopping + Dining
Beachwalk Mall (Kuta) – Shopping, international and local dining options, sunset views
Seminyak Square & Village – Boutique shopping plus cafés and restaurants
Canggu Shops & Cafés – Lifestyle boutiques next to cafés for relaxed afternoons
Tips for Travelers
Cash & Cards: Use small denominations for markets; credit cards accepted in malls and restaurants
Bargaining: Polite bargaining is expected at street markets; smile and offer lower price
Timing: Visit markets early for cooler temperatures and best selection
Food Safety: Stick to cooked meals and bottled water if concerned about hygiene
Transport: Use Grab, Gojek, or private drivers for easy access to multiple markets or dining spots
Local Etiquette: Respect cultural items; ask before photographing locals
