Bali is certainly one of the world’s top tourism destinations, and it’s simple to understand why. Bali is a wanderlust traveler’s paradise, with beautiful beaches, rich culture, world-class culinary locations, and fantastic family attractions in every area. There’s something for everyone, whether you desire a sun-drenched beach holiday, a rich culture, preserved nature, especially in rural areas, an unconventional adventure, or foods and shop your way across the island. So be sure to check off these 15 fantastic things to do in Bali, as recommended by locals!
1. Diving and Snorkeling
If you are a diver, diving and snorkeling in Bali will be an exhilarating new experience. Enjoy the charm of unspoiled underwater beauty, such as colorful coral reefs filled with marine life, such as various types of tropical fish and sea turtles, and the manta rays and mola that adorn life in the underwater world. With diverse dive sites and experienced guides, Bali offers an unforgettable experience for divers of all levels, from the young to the advanced. Those without a diving certificate can try snorkeling to enjoy the island’s rich biodiversity, with shallow coral reefs waiting to be explored. Here’s a list of popular diving spots in Bali, such as:
- Tulamben offers incredible diving opportunities with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine biodiversity, and at this point, you can dive into the famous USS Liberty shipwreck.
- Amed is famous for its beautiful coral gardens and diverse marine life. Amed is a great destination for beginners and experienced divers alike.
- Nusa Penida Island is one of the most visited by divers; the dive sites can see manta rays, and there is the opportunity to see mola.
- Located within the West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island offers crystal-clear waters, stunning coral walls, and tropical fish species.
- Padang Bai offers a variety of dive sites suitable for all levels. Padang Bai is known for its beautiful coral gardens, impressive swimming spots, and the chance to see sharks and turtles.
- Pemuteran has artificial reefs. Pemuteran has become a haven for marine biodiversity, including vibrant coral growth and diverse fish species.
2. Watersport
Bali Watersports, located on one of Bali’s beaches, Tanjung Benoa Beach, offers a variety of watersport activities to both local and foreign tourists. Tanjung Benoa is a popular water tourism location; the most popular games for beginners are banana boating, parasailing, jet skiing, rolling donuts, skateboards pulled by fast boats, and visiting one of the islands, which serves as a conservation site for one of the marine mammals, namely sea turtles, which are nearly extinct in their natural habitat.
3. Bali Safari and Marine Park
Bali Safari and Marine Park is dedicated to conservation and education, including breeding programs and research efforts focused on preserving endangered species and developing environmental awareness. Visitors may learn about these initiatives through educational exhibits, interactive presentations, and up-close interactions with the park’s animals.
4. Bali Zoo
At Bali Zoo, visitors may go on a voyage of discovery as they explore the park’s meticulously constructed habitats, which are home to a diverse range of animals such as elephants, orangutans, tigers, Komodo dragons, and more. The zoo’s distinctive “hands-on” approach allows visitors to engage with many of the animals during feeding times, animal encounters, and educational presentations led by professional zookeepers.
5. Surfing Lessons
Learning to surf in Bali is a joyful and unforgettable experience, owing to the island’s legendary waves, and professional instructors will show you how to surf correctly and catch a decent wave. Bali surf schools are ideal for beginners and individuals who desire to improve their abilities. Surfing lessons tend to be held in Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak beaches because the waves are quite suitable for beginners.
6. Culture and Community
Balinese culture and society are characterized by a deep respect for tradition, a vibrant artistic heritage, and a strong sense of unity and solidarity. Visitors to the island are welcomed with open arms and invited to experience the warmth, hospitality, and beauty of Bali’s unique cultural tapestry.
7. Local Foods
Balinese culture and society are characterized by a deep respect for tradition, a vibrant artistic heritage, and a strong sense of unity and solidarity. Visitors to the island of Bali’s culinary scene are diverse and highly flavorful with preparations made from naturally sourced spices, resulting in mouthwatering local dishes that reflect the island’s cultural heritage. With traditional cooking techniques, local Balinese food is a treat for the palate. Popular among travelers are babi guling (suckling pig), sate lilit, and lawar made from vegetables such as long beans, young papaya, sliced jackfruit, red beans, or young star fruit leaves.
8. Trekking
An unforgettable adventure through Bali’s stunning landscapes with trekking tours that promise breathtaking views, unspoiled jungles with wildlife such as birds and other animals, and green rice fields. Bali trekking activities are suitable for all fitness and experience levels, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the island of Bali. One of the most popular trekking activities by travelers is climbing Mount Batur because, from the top of the mountain, tourists can enjoy the process of how the sun rises from Bali’s towering mountains. For those whose stamina is not strong enough to climb, there is a facility that can be rented by using a Mount Batur Jeep Tour to arrive at one of the high-altitude places, so you can enjoy the beautiful sunrise.
9. White Water Rafting
Ayung River rafting offers an exciting mix of adventure, nature, and culture, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Bali who want to enjoy the beauty of the island. To arrive at the rafting location, you will pass through paths and rice fields and can see the activities of local people cultivating their rice fields, such as plowing rice fields, planting rice, or cutting rice after the harvest. Rafting the Ayung River promises to be an unforgettable experience for tourists.
Another location that is usually used as a track for rafting located in Karangasem called Telaga Waja River. Telaga Waja River is a spot for rafting, located in the Muncan Karang Asem area of Bali, and is the only rafting track reaching around 17 km. From the rafting starting point, participants will be escorted through the river until they arrive at the finish point. You can feel the sensation of the swift flow of the river from the boat, enjoying the natural scenery around you, which makes for an unforgettable adventure.
10. ATV Ride
Have you ever felt the exhilaration of riding an ATV? Bali provides a one-of-a-kind adventure trip with ATV riding. Located in Ubud, with muddy terrain or tracking rivers and rural nature that provides breathtaking backdrop in the shape of green rice fields, guaranteeing a memorable adrenaline-filled experience. This excursion is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the island.
11. Sunset Dinner Cruise
A sunset dinner cruise includes an international buffet supper while you watch the sky shift from blue to orange, crimson, and ultimately purple. After dark, you may see a variety of entertaining acts, including live music, a 6-person cabaret, and DJ music. Dance the night away against a background of twinkling stars and portlights.
12. Day Club
Bali’s day clubs, you may relax beside infinity pools with spectacular ocean views, rest in private cabanas surrounded by beautiful gardens, and dance to the rhythms of top DJs spinning the newest hits. Whether you prefer a loud beach club environment or a tranquil retreat buried in the forest, Bali’s day clubs cater to every taste and desire, assuring an amazing experience for everyone.
13. Nusa Penida Island Tour
Since six years ago, Nusa Penida Island has become one of the most popular tourist destinations for tourists on vacation in Bali and is Bali’s hidden gem. The breathtaking natural scenery from the cliffside overlooks the vast ocean and pristine beaches. From the iconic Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong, a natural pool surrounded by rocks and high cliffs holds the sea water at high tide. The natural beauty of Broken Beach and Diamond Beach is iconic for the perfect photo op. With comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides, our short Nusa Penida Island tour offers the perfect getaway for travelers seeking adventure and exploration on the island of Bali.
14. VW Tour
The Bali VW Tour is a unique journey that will take you to the beautiful natural scenery of the countryside. Sit back and relax in our vintage Volkswagen safari car as our driver takes you on a journey through the most iconic destinations on the island of Bali. Explore beautiful rice fields, communities steeped in history, and hidden tourist attractions, all while experiencing the timeless beauty of a vintage VW trip. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, create an unforgettable experience with experienced drivers and guides.
15. Traditional Art Market
Explore the uniqueness of Bali and pick up some of the souvenirs that can be found at traditional art markets. A charming array of handcrafted items, from intricately woven textiles and traditional wood carvings, hand-painted, sculptural crafts to exquisite silver jewelry. Wander through the bustling stalls filled with charming local handicrafts just waiting to be purchased. Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or simply enjoying the variety of handicrafts on display, Bali Traditional Arts Market offers an authentic and unforgettable shopping experience.
Conclusion:
Bali offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences for travelers with various interests. Exploring Bali’s natural beauty and verdant rice fields relaxing on pristine beaches and embarking on thrilling adventures, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this enchanting island. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, relaxation, or adrenaline-pumping activities, Bali promises to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories. Don’t miss the chance to discover Bali’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and the hospitality of its people on your next adventure!
