Bali, Indonesia, is a destination that all travelers should have on their must-visit list. Check out our list of the best things to do in Bali Indonesia to make the most of your trip to this idyllic island!
Bali is a slice of paradise and is home to roaring waterfalls, lush jungles, active volcanoes, fantastic beach clubs, and sublime surfing opportunities. Located in spectacular South East Asia, there’s a rich cultural and religious influence throughout the country.
Alongside the vibrant temples and friendly faces, you’ll encounter a decadent dining scene, sprawling marketplaces, and a unique vibe that really can’t be beaten. Bali is a budget traveler’s utopia with affordable price tags and plenty of bargaining opportunities, and it’s easy to see why.
If you’re heading out to this incredible Indonesian island, save this Bali travel guide for later. Here are the 9 best things to do in Bali in 2023.
9 Best Things to do in Bali, Indonesia!
1. Hike the Mount Batur summit
If you’re feeling up for an adventure, the Mount Batur hike will not only get your heart rate up, but it’ll exceed all your expectations.
This active volcano boasts some of the most surreal sights over the island’s rolling rice fields, volcanos, and villages. Making your way up to the peak only takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace, and it’s well worth the trip. Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or in a group, hiking Mount Batur at sunrise is easily one of the top things to do in Bali.
Pro tip: Avoid feeding the monkeys on top of the mountain. While they look cute, they are known to steal food and travelers’ belongings!
2. Go island hopping!
Bali has a reputation for its awe-worthy beach scene, and the Gili Islands are certainly no exception. Situated only 90 minutes from the main town, Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air are three of the area’s most beautiful gems.
Backpackers will be spoilt for choice in Trawangan, with plenty of alcohol-infused parties and social events on offer. Gili Meno and Gili Air are better suited to couples and families looking for a taste of the more authentic side of Balinese island life.
3. Visit Bali’s world-class yoga studios!
The ‘Island of the Gods’ is undoubtedly a spiritual hot spot, and it continues to draw in the masses of yoga enthusiasts year after year.
Many yoga studios in Bali offer visitors a stellar chance to stretch, reflect, and connect. Whether it’s in a studio overlooking the verdant rice fields or on the beachfront, you’ll find plenty of pristine places to practice ‘zenning’ out.
Some of the best yoga studios in Bali include Radiantly Alive, Yoga Barn, Blue Earth Village, Intuitive Flow, Morning Light, Ubud Yoga House, and Samadi Bali. If you’re a spiritually-inclined, solo traveler, or simply a lover of exercise, doing yoga is a fun activity to add to your Bali bucket list.
4. Head out to Bali’s best waterfalls
This Indonesian Island is rich with roaring waterfalls. From the north to the south, you’ll find many hot spots to swim, bathe, and snorkel in. Pack yourself some snacks, spend an afternoon out in the jungle, and get refreshed. The wealth of waterfalls in Bali offers a truly unique experience, especially if you head out to lesser-known ones.
Pro tip: The most famous waterfall in Bali, Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud is spectacular, but the crowds can take away from the overall experience.
Escape the hordes of tourists and head out to Sekumpul Waterfall in Singaraja, Banyumala Twin Waterfall in Wanagiri, Aling Aling Waterfall in Sambangan, or GitGit Waterfall in Singaraja.
5. Go shopping in Seminyak
What would a trip to Bali be without a little shopping spree? Thanks to low prices, even the most frugal backpackers and budget-based travelers can enjoy themselves in Seminyak. The expanse of marketplaces, spas, restaurants, bars, and shops is home to some seriously cheap finds. If
you’re on the hunt for clothing and beachwear, Seminyak’s range of boutique brands has what you’re looking for. After a big day out shopping in Seminyak, resort to the beach for paddle boarding and other watersports activities. Alternatively, you could head out to Kuta for a wild night out.
Pro tip: If you’re an art fanatic, head up north to Ubud’s Sukawati Art Market. Here you’ll find cheaper prices and fewer crowds compared to southern Bali. Keep an eye out for the handcrafted goods, wooden sculptures, and plethora of patterned pieces on offer.
6. Get adventurous at the Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon
If you’re interested in an activity filled with adrenaline and natural wonder, then look no further than this sacred site. The Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon harbors a handful of canyons fringing the Oos River. This is the perfect opportunity for any travelers looking to get active with rock climbing and swimming. Exploring these canyons is easily one of the most unique experiences in Bali, Indonesia.
Pro tip: Hire a guide for safety. Avoid this gem in the rainy season because the currents can rise to hazardous levels.
7. Go green at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace
If there’s something you shouldn’t miss in Bali, then it’s these postcard-worthy, picturesque rice paddies. Sitting just 20 minutes north of Ubud, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace offers a slice of traditional Balinese life.
You’ll catch a glimpse of the oh-so-green, rolling rice terraces that have been sustained here for thousands of years. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect escape from the buzzing beach fronts and busier destinations.
Pro tip: To ditch the bigger tourist crowds, head here early in the morning! Take a break at one of the many open-air cafes and soak up all the beauty of the atmosphere.
8. Check out Tanah Lot Temple
If you want a slice of Bali’s cultural, historical, and natural features all in one hit, then this is where you’ll find it. Tanah Lot Temple is stunning, considering that it’s perched on a rock right by the roaring ocean.
If you make it here at low tide, you can even walk across the sand to the temple! This Hindu temple is one of the best places to watch the sunset, making it one of the most romantic things to do in Bali for couples.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for a temple experience that’s slightly off the beaten track, head to the 11th-century Gunung Kawi Temple.
9. Visit Menjangan Island
Situated in West Bali National Park, this off-the-grid gem is one of the lesser-known attractions in Bali. Otherwise known as Deer Island, this spot is frequented by crowds of Javan deer, in addition to a rich expanse of wildlife.
Menjangan Island is perfect for diving, snorkeling, and nature activities. They offer the opportunity to see incredible vibrant coral reefs, sandy beaches, and an abundance of green vegetation.
