From its emerald rice terraces and sacred temples, to its volcanic peaks and turquoise beaches, Bali presents a rich blend of nature, culture, spirituality and thrilling adventure. It's fair to say this Indonesian island gem has plenty for every type of traveler, which can make it tricky to map your your Indonesia itinerary. With that in mind, read on to discover the 15 best things to do in Bali.
Perched dramatically on a cliff 70 meters above the sea, Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is one of Bali’s most iconic sea temples.
It’s famous for its sunsets and the nightly Kecak fire dance held at a nearbby open-air amphitheater.
The temple offers panoramic ocean views and a mystical atmosphere, especially at dusk.
Tip: watch out for the cheeky monkeys! They have a habit of grabbing snacks and taking more than a passing interest in phones and cameras
Uluwatu Temple is just 45 mins by car from Kuta or Seminyak. Either take a taxi, book a private transfer, or rent a scooter.
Late afternoon (around 4–6 pm) is best so to soak sunset and Kecak performances, and the May to October dry season in best in terms of the time of year to visit.
In the early stages of planning your trip? Make use of our guide to how to plan a trip to Indonesia.
Visiting Uluwatu temple is one of the best things to do in Bali © Shutterstock
Located close to Ubud, Tegalalang’s rice terraces are a super-photogenic showcase of traditional Balinese irrigation, and one of the best Bali tours.
Here, you can wander through lush greenery, enjoy a meal at cliffside cafés, and engage with local culture surrounded by sublime scenery, with longer hikes and more immersive cultural experience also offered by local guides
Tegalalang can be reached in 15–20 mins from Ubud center — take a taxi, book a tour, or rent a scooter.
The dry season is best, with early morning visits better if you want to avoid crowds and catch softer light in cooler conditions.
For wider weather context, read up on the best time to visit Bali.
Tegallalang rice terraces, Ubud, Bali © Shutterstock
Among the best beaches in Bali, Seminyak Beach is chic and lively with beach clubs, boutique hotels, and top-tier sunsets.
Boasting a 6km sweep of golden sand, a stand-out feature of Seminyak Beach is its restless waves. As a result, it's one of the best beaches in Bali for surfing.
Traveling beyond Bali? Discover the best beaches in Lombok, and discover the best Indonesian islands.
The beach is 20–30 mins from Ngurah Rai Airport, and 10 mins from Kuta.
Again, visiting during the dry season (April–October) is best.
Seminyak Beach, Bali © Shutterstock
Hiking Mount Batur for sunrise is one of Bali’s most exhilarating experiences.
Starting in the early hours (around 2–3 am), the two-hour trek leads you to the volcano's summit just in time for a breathtaking sunrise over Lake Batur and Mount Agung.
Guided hikes often include flashlights and a simple breakfast cooked in volcanic steam.
While the trail is moderately challenging, it's very rewarding, offering panoramic views and a surreal, peaceful atmosphere as dawn breaks over the island.
Looking for unusual holiday destinations in Indonesia? Read our guide to Indonesia beyond Bali: 7 places off the tourist trail.
Mount Batur is 1.5–2 hrs from Ubud, or 3 hrs from Seminyak by car or tour van.
The best time to visit is during dry season mornings (April–October) — trips usually depart at 2 am to reach the summit for sunrise for the summit.
Sunrise over Mount Batur, Bali © Shutterstock
Located in West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is one of Indonesia’s best-kept snorkeling secrets.
The coral reefs here are pristine, with excellent visibility, gentle currents and vibrant marine life, coral walls. There's even a small temple on the island
Quieter and less touristy than many other coastal destinations, this stunner is ideal for those seeking tranquility.
And in good news on te practcal front, snorkeling or diving tours typically include boat transfers and guides.
Menjangan Island is 4–5 hour drive from Ubud or Denpasar to Pemuteran, followed by a short boat ride.
April–November during the dry season is best, when the water is clearest.
Keen to cover more ground? Read up on getting around Bali.
Tanah Lot temple, Bali © Shutterstock
Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali’s most iconic and picturesque sea temples.
Set on a rocky offshore outcrop that's constantly battered by waves, the temple is dedicated to the sea god Baruna. As such, it's an important spiritual and cultural symbol of Balinese Hinduism.
Though entry to the actual temple is limited to worshippers, the surrounding grounds are open to all and offer excellent viewpoints, coastal paths, souvenir stalls and eateries.
At high tide, the temple appears to float on water, creating a dramatic silhouette, especially during sunset.
Easily accessible from Seminyak or Ubud, it’s best visited in the late afternoon for golden light and breathtaking ocean views. Though you should expect crowds, especially as sunset approaches.
Want to explore more Balinese culture? Discover the best Bali temples
The temple is located about 45 minutes from Seminyak, and 1.5 hours from Ubud by car or motorbike. Day tours are widely available.
Sunset is most popular, but early morning visits offer fewer crowds and peaceful views.
Kelingking beach, Bali © Shutterstock
Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida is one of Bali’s most stunning natural landmarks, and known for its dramatic cliff that's shaped like a T-Rex head.
From the viewpoint atop the limestone bluff, visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of turquoise waters and a white-sand beach far below.
Meanwhile, adventurous travelers can hike the steep, narrow trail down to the beach. Note, though, that it's pretty challenging and requires caution. In fact, this hike is not for the faint of heart.
The beach is often quiet due to the tough access, and so it delivers a sense of sublime untouched beauty.
Nusa Penida’s Kelingking Beach is reached via a 45-minute speedboat from Sanur to Nusa Penida, followed by a 45-minute drive.
Many day tours cover this incredible natural attractions.
Kelingking Beach is best-visited from May–September. Arrive early to beat the crowds and avoid hiking in harsh sunlight.
For more transport context, read up on getting to Indonesia.
Broken beach in Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia © Shutterstock
Tulamben is home to one of the world’s most accessible wreck dives — the USAT Liberty, a WWII cargo ship sunk just off the shore.
Given its accessibility, the dive is suitable for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, with colorful coral growth and abundant marine life including turtles, barracudas and nudibranchs.
If you're more experienced, note that night dives are popular around these scenic parts.
Tulamben is located round 2.5–3 hours from Ubud or the airport by car.
May to November offer the best underwater conditions.
Still figuring out how to configure your trip? Read our guide to how many days to spend in Bali.
Foodies will find much to satisfy them in Bali © Shutterstock
Surrounded by rice terraces, temples and jungle, Ubud is Bali’s cultural heart.
As a result, alongside offering a serene escape from coastal crowds, Ubud is the ideal place to embrace local culture through taking a Balinese cooking class.
Such experiences usually begin with shopping at local markets, followed by learning about indigenous spices before you get to cook traditional dishes like satay, sambal, and gado-gado in open-air kitchens.
Classes are hands-on, often family-run, and 100% enlightening and fun!
To reach Ubud, drive 1.5 hours from Ngurah Rai Airport or take a shuttle from Kuta or Seminyak.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, for cooler weather and scenic outdoor experiences.
As for cooking experiences, morning classes are best, so you'll get to eat your creations for lunch.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu, Bali © Shutterstock
Uluwatu’s southern coastline is dotted with stunning beaches, which makes beach-hopping these parts an absolute breeze!
Each beach offers its own unique charm — some with beach bars, others with hidden caves.
For example, while Melasti Beach has dramatic cliffs and turquoise water, Padang Padang is a surf haven made famous by the "Eat Pray Love" movie.
Then there's Bingin Beach, with its laidback bohemian vibe.
It takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach this area from Seminyak. Either rent a scooter, or take a taxi or private transfer.
April–October is best, and we also suggest starting out early to find parking and enjoy cooler weather.
Padang Padang beach, Bali © Shutterstock
Located near Tampaksiring, Tirta Empul is one of Bali’s most sacred temples.
Built around a natural spring that's believed to have purifying properties, locals and tourists alike line up to bathe under a series of fountains, following a specific ritual sequence.
The temple complex includes shrines, koi ponds, and tranquil courtyards, making it a richly rewarding day trip for travelers who love culture and serene surroundings.
Be sure to bring a sarong for the temple, and a change of clothes.
Tirta Empul is located about 30–45 minutes from Ubud by car or scooter.
Visit in the early mornings during the dry season to avoid crowds and for the best weather.
Tirta Empul Hindu Temple, Bali, Indonesia © Shutterstock
This central Ubud attraction is a lush forest sanctuary home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques and ancient temple ruins.
Trails wind under towering trees and mossy sculptures, giving the place a mystical feel.
The monkeys are wild but used to people — don't bring food and keep loose items packed away! You have been warned...
The Sacred Monkey Forest is easily walkable from central Ubud.
9–11 am is best, when the forest is cooler and the monkeys are calmer!
Digging deeper into your trip plans? Read up on where to stay in Bali, and Indonesia accommodation.
Ubud's Sacred Monkey Forest © Shutterstock
Known for its laid-back surf culture, trendy cafés, digital nomad hubs and bohemian vibe, Canggu is a vibrant coastal town in southwest Bali.
Alongside offering an enticing blend of rice field tranquility and beachside energy, it's also now on the map for its community-driven wellness experiences, especially its yoga studios.
For example, places like Samadi, Serenity and The Practice offer drop-in classes, retreats, and workshops in lush garden settings, wit hon-site organic cafés.
In short, whether you're a beginner or seasoned yogi, Canggu’s open-air spaces and relaxed pace present the ideal environment for mindfulness.
Want wonderful wellness experiences? Read up on the best yoga retreats in Bali.
From Ngurah Rai International Airport, it’s about a 45–60 minute drive by taxi.
.While there’s no public transport, many visitors rent scooters, or arrange private transfers for more convenience.
While this experience is great year-round, April–October is best for outdoor classes and exploring the coast and beach.
Canggu © Shutterstock
Ayung River rafting offers adventure and natural beauty in one very pretty package.
Located near Ubud, the river features gentle Class II–III rapids, making it ideal for first-time rafters and families alike. On that subject, read up on visiting Bali with kids.
As you paddle along, you’ll pass rainforest cliffs, hidden waterfalls, rice terraces, and stone carvings etched into grand canyon walls.
Tours include safety gear, a professional guide, hotel pickup, and lunch with scenic views, and you'll spend around two hours on the water.
The Ayung River is around 20–30 minutes from Ubud, and pickup is included with tours.
Visit in May–September for steady water levels and clearer skies.
Beautiful Bali! © Shutterstock
Exploring North Bali’s waterfalls is a rewarding escape into the island’s wild, less-touristed beauty, with Sekumpul Waterfall standing out as the crown jewel.
Surrounded by dense jungle, it boasts multiple streams cascading 80 meters into a lush valley — ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
A moderate hike involving steps and river crossings leads to its base, offering a close-up of its immense power.
In addition, nearby waterfalls like Gitgit and Aling-Aling add to the adventure.
Sekumpul is located around 2.5–3 hours by car from Ubud or South Bali, and best reached with a private driver.
May to October in the morning is best for safety — roads and paths are slippery after rain.
Ready to head to Bali? For more inspiration while you plan your trip, discover the best things to do in Bali, and wise up with our Bali travel tips.
Not keen on planning? Browse our customisable Indonesia itineraries, and talk to our local experts.
written by
Rough Guides Editors
updated 23.06.2025
Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Indonesia
