21 Best Things To Do In Bali (2025)

If you’re looking to create the perfect itinerary for a Bali, then you’ve come to the right place, as we’re Bali travel experts and like to think we know all of the best spots to visit and activities for your bucket list.

Bali is jam-packed with great things to see and do for travellers. Full of natural hidden gems, gorgeous beaches and a unique culture, you’ll never be bored on the island.

We run Group Tours in Bali so we’re constantly looking for new things to do throughout the islands, and we’ve put together a list of 21 of the best things to do in Bali, made up of a mixture of must-dos and lesser known activities, helping you to form the ultimate itinerary for your island adventure!

Things To Do In Bali

Bali is overflowing with incredible things for travellers to see and do. With so many amazing activities on offer, narrowing down your must-do list can be overwhelming. But don’t worry – we’ve done the hard work for you!

Below are 21 of the absolute best things to do in Bali that you won’t want to miss:

1. Visit Temples

Bali has lots of incredible temples, each with a unique design and religious purpose. It is estimated that there are at least 10,000 temples on the island, so no matter how hard you try, you’ll never get around them all while visiting Bali.

However, there are a few that you will definitely want on your to-do list.

Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most iconic viewpoints and temples. Perched on a rock in the ocean, the temple is especially popular at sunset, when the orange sky highlights the stone structure. Although we personally prefer going early in the morning to beat the crowds!

Uluwatu Temple is another of Bali’s famous cliff-edge structures, with amazing views across the ocean. If you visit in the evening, then you can catch the famous Kecak fire dance – one of Bali’s most well-known cultural performances for tourists.

If you’re looking for a less tourist-crowded experience, then head to Pura Mengening, a beautiful water temple tucked away in a cove of the lush countryside. Locals come to Pura Mengening to pray and collect holy water, which they use for cleansing rituals. Tourists are also welcome to bathe in the healing waters during spiritual experiences at the temple.

2. Visit Waterfalls

Bali is definitely an island where you could find yourself literally chasing waterfalls – and trust us, you’re going to want to! 

Banyumala Twin Waterfalls in the north are one of our top recommendations if you’re looking to experience the scale of Bali’s natural beauty. This double cascade, hidden within the jungle, is definitely worth the visit if you’re looking for a bit of privacy and some great Insta snaps. 

Another of our favourites is the Gitgit Waterfall, which is one of Bali’s most well-known features and also one of the most accessible. While you’ll find a lot more tourists at this spot, it’s still beautiful to see and is a great spot for cooling off.

3. Take a Surf Lesson in Uluwatu

Bali is an amazing destination for surfers, and if you’re just starting on a board, then it’s also the perfect place to learn. 

While there are plenty of towns and villages across the island known for their surf potential, Uluwatu stands out from the rest due to its great surf atmosphere, perfect waves and breathtaking scenery.

Whether you’re keen on a one-off lesson or want to fully dive in with a multi-day surf camp, Uluwatu is the place to be. 

There are loads of surf schools in Uluwatu offering packages that include accommodation, daily lessons, and even group activities – ideal if you’re travelling solo or just want to meet some like-minded beach lovers.

4. Go Island Hopping

Island hopping is a great way of extending your time in Bali and making the most of the island’s connections. With so many beautiful islands nearby that are worth exploring, you could easily add a few extra destinations to your itinerary. 

Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Gili Islands – The Gili Islands are known for their beautiful white-sand beaches, incredible snorkelling spots and some the best opportunities to spot sea turtles around Bali. All cars and motorbikes are banned on the Gili Islands  to help protect the landscape from fossil fuel damages – so be prepared to cycle or spend most of your days on foot here!
• Nusa Lembongan – Just a 30 minute boat ride from Bali, Nusa Lembongan it a peaceful island escape with a calm atmosphere, crystal blue waters and wonderful mangroves to explore. 
• Nusa Penida – With dramatic coastal cliffs and Insta-worthy beaches, Nusa Penida hasa similar vibe to Bali but is a lot less crowded. It’s another top spot for scuba diving too, with great opportunites for spotting manta rays!
• Lombok – Located a bit further away from Bali is Lombok, with beautiful mountains to hike, a fabulous party culture and amazing beaches. You could easily spend a number of days on Lombok taking in its unique vibes.
• Komodo Islands – The Komodo Islands are the ideal location for the adventurous traveller who likes to scuba dive, snorkel and take in panoramic views on hikes. As their name would also suggest, they’re home to Komodo dragons – the world’s largest lizard. Make sure to keep an eye out for them!

5. Go Scuba Diving

If you’ve never tried scuba diving before, then Bali is an amazing destination to take the plunge (literally)! The island is surrounded by colourful coral reefs and tropical fish, and there is even an opportunity to spot manta rays and turtles. 

There are dive schools all over the island equipped to guide total beginners or already certified divers, taking you to the best spots for marine life.

Nusa Penida and the Liberty shipwreck are two of the island’s most popular dive spots, with some epic views and fish to uncover. Gili T’s Turtle Heaven is another favourite of ours – as the name suggests, it’s turtle heaven!

You might think Bali is beautiful enough on land, but wait ‘til you dive deep into its ocean!

6. Relax in Beach Clubs

Bali has a pretty incredible beach club scene with locations suitable for all budgets and preferences. 

Whether you’re looking for a morning of luxury lounging, a place to watch the sunset views with a cocktail in hand, or a full day of pool fun, there’s a spot for every vibe:

• Savaya – Perched high on 100-metre-tall cliffs in Uluwatu, Savaya offers luxury day packages with an amazing ocean backdrop. 
• Single Fin – An Uluwatu favourite, Single Fin is ideal for watching the surfers with a delicious cocktail in hand. Sundays are the best day for visiting with some of the island’s best DJs getting the crowds on their feet for dancing.
• FINNS – Located in Canggu, FINNS is one of Bali’s most popular beach clubs, and one of the best beach clubs in the world. With pools and a water park area complete with slides and daybeds, it’s got everything you need for a fun beach day. It’s a popular spot 7 days a week.
• Cretya – Tucked away in Ubud’s lush jungle, Cretya is a scenic and serene alternative to the island’s coastal clubs, offering rice terrace views and a luxurious infinity pool.

7. Hike Mount Batur

Mount Batur is one of Bali’s most famous and most impressive volcanoes. Hiking it at sunrise has become a very popular and unforgettable activity among people coming to Bali. 

Hikes are timed exactly right so that you will reach the summit just as the sun begins to make its appearance, providing you with a breathtaking scene of the surrounding mountains and Lake Batur. On a clear day, you can even spot Lombok Island in the distance!

Hiking Mount Batur should definitely make it onto your to-do list while visiting Bali if you want to experience Bali at its most beautiful.

Beginning in the early hours of the morning, local guide groups set off, trekking underneath the stars. It’s a steep climb but the rewarding views at the top are more than worth it!

8. Take Part in an Offering-Making Class

One of the most meaningful cultural experiences in Bali is learning how to make traditional canang sari offerings. These offerings are made from palm leaves, flowers and incense and are an important part of daily life and religious rituals in Bali.

Many local villages and cultural centres on the island offer classes where you can learn the art of crafting these offerings. During these classes, skilled experts will teach you the significance of each item, its role in Hinduism and how to construct the perfect offering tailored to your wishes.

These classes are the perfect way to immerse yourself in Bali’s traditions and spiritual practices, allowing you to get a grasp of the local way of life.

9. Watch the Kecak Fire Dance

The Kecak Fire Dance is an incredible cultural performance that you’ll not want to miss while visiting Bali. Performed by a group of men outside the Uluwatu Temple each evening, the Kecak Fire Dance is exactly as the name would suggest.

As the sun sets each night, the performers gather to chant rhythmically together and tell stories of Bali’s ancient mythology. Torches and fire pits are then lit, with the performers incorporating impressive dance moves with the flames into their display – causing things to really heat up!

The Kecak Fire Dance is definitely an experience you will not want to miss while visiting Bali, as it is so unique to the island!

10. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud

If you find yourself in Ubud while travelling around Bali then you simply must add a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary to your activity list. 

Located in the heart of the jungle, the park is home to over 1,000 long-tailed macaques who are permitted to roam freely among the towering trees and the hidden temples, allowing visitors to get up close to some of Bali’s most-loved creatures.

The monkeys are so fun to watch, but be sure to keep an eye and tight grasp on your belongings as their cheeky personalities have often led to them snatching snacks, sunglasses and even phones from forest visitors.

The Monkey Forest is a must-see for any animal lovers but we’d also recommend it if you’d like to tower some more ancient structures as there are plenty of ancient Hindu temples to explore throughout the park too!

11. Swing on Bali Swing over the Rice Fields

If you’ve ever taken a scroll through the feed of any travel influencer on a trip to Bali, then you’re almost guaranteed to have come across the famous Bali swings. 

Swinging high across the rice fields has become a bit of a must-do activity while in Bali, and honestly, it’s as fun as it looks. 

The original Bali Swing near Ubud is the most famous, but there are now plenty of spots around the island where you can get that same adrenaline rush and perfect Insta pic.

12. Take an ATV and Rafting Tour in Ubud

If you’re wanting a bit of an adrenaline rush during your Bali adventure then an ATV and rafting tour in Ubud is the perfect combo deal.

These experiences take you off the beaten track and allow you to ride through scenic rice paddies, quiet villages, and forest paths on the back of an all-purpose vehicle.

Afterwards, you head to the Ayung River for a white-water rafting session with some top-notch guides, where you will paddle past luscious greenery, impressive rock formations and beautiful waterfalls. Hold on tight as it’s quite the ride!

These combined experiences are one of our top recommendations for those seeking to add some adventure to their Bali trip while taking in its natural beauty.

13. Spot Wild Dolphins in Lovina

Lovina, on Bali’s northern coast is renowned as being one of the best locations on the island for spotting pods of dolphins in their natural habitat. 

There are plenty of boat tours which specialise in dolphin spotting, often setting off in the early morning due to the calmer waters and the higher number of dolphins in the area.

Witnessing dolphins leap along the side of the boat while the sun comes up in the pink sky is an unforgettable memory, and the calm atmosphere really adds to the experience.

If you’re lucky, you may also be able to see the dolphins from the shoreline at Lovina. No matter what though, make sure to have your camera on hand if you’re by the beach as you never know what might pop up out of the water!

14. Have a Gym Day

Bali has a great fitness scene whether you’re hard-core exerciser or prefer to stick to more gentle movement. With gyms scattered across the island, especially in Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu, you’ll have no trouble finding a spot to squeeze in a session.

Here are some of our top recommendations for getting a workout in:

• Bambu Fitness – Bambu Fitness is a boutique-style gym that focuses strongly on functional fitness in a supportive atmosphere. With plenty of fitness classes and packages on offer, you’re sure to find something you’ll love at Bambu.
• Body Factory – The Body Factory is one of the most popular gyms in Canggu, especially with digital nomads and travellers. It also has a range of group classes on offer, alongside dedicated HYROX training programmes to help you get in the best shape.
• The Wrong Gym – The Wrong Gym welcomes all kinds of trainers, with unique training approaches and a focus on community and pushing boundaries. It’s the perfect spot if you’re after a workout that’s a little out of the ordinary.

15. Take a Balinese Cooking Class

Lots of travellers find that one of the best ways of getting to know destinations is through sampling their local cuisines, and Bali is no exception. 

Bali is home to a very diverse culinary scene, with lots of flavorful local dishes like nasi goreng, nasi campur and lawar along with many dishes that are interesting takes on Western favourites.

Taking a Balinse cooking class is a fun and hands-on way of getting to know Bali’s traditional cooking techniques and ingredients. Many of the classes start with local market visits, where you’ll pick out your own fresh produce to use before heading to the kitchen.

Cooking classes are not only a great way of getting to grips with the delicious tastes of the island but can also help solo travellers to find some new friends and like-minded people to hang out with.

16. Watch the Sunset

There’s nothing quite like a Bali sunset – they are incredible! Making time to catch the sunset each evening should definitely be on your to-do list. 

Echo Beach in Canggu is one of our top picks for gorgeous sunset displays. With plenty of beachside cafés, you’re guaranteed an amazing view of the pink and orange skies. Grab a cocktail or tropical juice, sit back and relax!

Single Fin in Uluwatu is also a stunning sunset spot. Located at the edge of the beach, this is the perfect restaurant for watching the sun disappear along the horizon and surfers catching their last waves.

Accompanied with great music, delicious drinks and some of the best food (including plenty of vegan options!) on the coast, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable sunset experience at Single Fin.

17. Have a Spa Day

Bali is the ultimate place to unwind and treat yourself with luxurious spa days. From deep tissue massage to warm floral baths, there are plenty of incredible spots across Bali to recharge. 

Here are some of the very best:

• Spring Spa – Spring Spa is modern, boho and the perfect place to relax. Offering everything from facials to full body massages in a calm atmosphere, you’re guaranteed a relaxing experience.
• Tonic Spa – Nestled in Bingin, Tonic is known for its colourful interiors and endless list of treatments. It’s the perfect post-beach stop to help shake off the sun and sand.
• U Spa – U Spa is a quiet retreat with a number of locations, offering affordable yet high-quality treatments by the edge of the green jungles.
• Kaveri Spa – Kaveri Spa is an incredible spa known for its flower baths. As well as having a spa day, a flower bath is another must-do when visiting Bali. They’re so relaxing!

18. Take a Yoga Class

Bali is a top destination for yoga lovers, providing a peaceful atmosphere and stunning surroundings to deepen your practice and allow you to channel your inner calm. 

Yoga Barn in Ubud is one of the island’s most popular yoga retreats, offering everything from beginner-friendly classes to advanced workshops in a relaxed, jungle setting.

Alchemy Yoga is another top spot offering a beautiful space where you can practice amidst nature and enjoy delicious food in their café afterward.

No matter if you’re a seasoned yoga master or a first-timer, there are plenty of great yoga spots that provide the perfect environment to relax, recharge, and reconnect.

19. Explore the Weekend Markets

Weekend markets are the perfect place to explore Bali’s unique character. If you’re looking for boho fashion, handmade jewellery and fresh local snacks then the markets are your best bet.

Make sure to check out these ones while visiting:

• Ubud Market – Right in the heart of Ubud, the Ubud Market is packed with local crafts, art, textiles, and souvenirs. Make sure to get there early for the best items!
• La Brisa Sunday Market – Held at the wonderful La Brisa beach club, this market blends Bali’s beach vibes with artisan stalls, organic food, and sustainable products.
• Hatch Market – Located in Uluwatu, this colourful and creative market is perfect for picking up unique and quirky pieces, souvenirs and clothing.
• The Seed Market – The Seed Market is a small but lovely Canggu-based market focusing on eco-conscious brands, wellness products, and plant-based goodies.
• Canggu Love Anchor Market – The Canggu Love Anchor Market (also known as the Canggu Center Market) is a popular and Insta-loved market spot offering everything from handmade silver jewellery to tropical smoothies.

20. Enjoy a Night Out

When the sun sets in Bali, if anything, the island becomes more alive. If you’re up for a night of dancing, delicious cocktails and a great laid-back atmosphere then the night life scene will definitely be your vibe.

Old Man’s in Canggu is a classic location for sunset drinks and some late-night fun, dubbed the “most iconic place in Bali”. Located right by the beach, the ocean views and live performances leave the vibes at Old Man’s unmatched.

If you’d like to spice up your night with some delcious tacos, colourful decor and a spontaneous dance on top of the tables then you might like a trip to the Motel Mexicola locations in Seminyak and Canggu. Tuesday nights are the busies at Motel Mexicola, with things really taking off after 9 pm!

Sandbar is another great bar for experiencing Bali’s nightlife. Here, the party continues well into the night on the beach, with live DJs keeping the music pumping well into the early hours of the morning. Sandbar is the go-to location after the other bars close in Canggu, with most travellers heading here to end their night with some energetic dancing and cheap drinks.

21. Make Your Own Silver Jewellery

If you’re looking for the perfect souvenir to remember your trip to Bali then making your own silver jewellery pieces could be the perfect option! 

There are lots of towns and villages across the island that offer workshops to try your hand at making traditional silver jewellery alongside local experts.

Whether it’s a ring, a bracelet or a beautiful pendant, you’ll be guided on how to design, shape and polish you very own custom silver piece. 

Making some silver jewellery while in Bali is a meaningful way of connecting with Balinese traditions and will leave you with the perfect keepsake from your adventure on the island.

PS Don’t worry if silver isn’t your colour – some workshops like the one at Bali Turtle Jewelry offer the option to have gold plating.

Is Bali Worth Visiting? 

Bali is 100% worth visiting. There’s a reason that this Indonesian island has shot to fame with travel influencers and a mere few hours on the island will give insight into why.

Bali truly has something for everyone, whether you’re into adventure, culture, or simply relaxing by the beach. From steep volcanic hikes and ancient temple tours to scuba diving and smoothie bowls, Bali is the kind of place where no two days will look the same.

Beyond the Insta-worthy scenery, Bali is also incredibly welcoming. The Balinese people are known for their kindness and hospitality, and their rich culture and traditions adds so much more to your travel experience.

Plus, Bali is amazing value for money. Whether you’re a backpacker on a tight budget or a luxury traveller seeking five-star villas, you’ll find it surprisingly affordable.

How Many Days in Bali? 

How long you should spend in Bali really depends on what kind of trip you’re after – but a minimum of 7 to 10 days is a great starting point. That gives you enough time to explore the main cities like Ubud, enjoy the beaches of Canggu and Uluwatu, and maybe even sneak in a day trip or two deep into the jungle.

If you have 2 weeks or more, even better. You can slow down your pace, spend time island hopping to places like Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands, and experience more of what makes Bali so magical without rushing from one thing to the next.

That said, even a short 4-5 day trip can still be incredible if you plan your route carefully and are selective with your time. Just be prepared – you’ll almost definitely want to come back again!

Best Time to Visit Bali 

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, which runs from April to late September. This is when you’ll get the best weather with sunny skies, warm temperatures, and lower humidity. These months are ideal for beach days, outdoor adventures, and exploring without worrying about the rain.

However, you may want to avoid July and August within the dry season as these are the busiest and most hectic months on the island. If you’d rather avoid the crowds while still enjoying great weather, May, June, or September are perfect.

The wet season between October and March brings a lot more rain and humidity, but it’s still a decent time to visit if you don’t mind occasional showers. Plus, accommodation prices are often lower. Just keep in mind that some boat trips and hikes may be affected by the weather.

FAQs 

Below are some frequently asked questions related to things to do in Bali along with our expert answers to them.

Conclusion: Things to Do in Bali 

Bali is full of incredible things to see and do; one thing is certain, you’re unlikely to ever be bored while on the island. 

Bali offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture, ensuring every type of traveller can find something to enjoy. Whether you’re hiking to the top of a volcano at sunrise, soaking up the rays and ocean views at a beach club, or exploring bustling markets, there’s always something new to discover. 

With so many activities to choose from, you’ll leave Bali with unforgettable memories and hoping to return for more!

And if you’d like to join us on one of our Bali group tours to have the ultimate Bali experience, we look forward to seeing you there!

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