Finder makes money from featured partners, but editorial opinions are our own.

Best things to do in Bali

Experience the spiritual temples and underwater beauty from the relaxed atmosphere of Indonesia’s famous island, Bali.

Indonesia's most popular destination lives up to its name with its relaxed atmosphere and picture-perfect surroundings.

We have created a list of things to do, so you can spend more time unwinding in a spa with a traditional massage, climbing Mount Batur or taking a day trip to Nusa Penida.

Note: From May 2022, Australians entering Bali for 30 days or less are required to have a tourist visa. The application can be done upon arrival at Bali airport and costs $50 per person.

Top things to do in Bali

Bali

1. Make a splash at Waterbom in Kuta

Waterbom is Bali's most popular water park and is home to the world's largest water slide.

There are activities for everyone from relaxing trips down the Lazy River to thrilling rides like the Double Twist.

Whoever you're with, a day out at Waterbom is sure to be a hit.

For convenience, private transfers in air-conditioned vehicles are available from your hotel to Waterbom.


Bali

2. Visit sacred temples in Uluwatu

Bali has some of the best temples in Indonesia. Some of the most notable that are worthy of your time are Tanah Lot, which is a pilgrimage temple on the coast with spectacular sunset views over the ocean, Uluwatu Temple and the Besakih temple complex.

Tours can take you to multiple temples in a day and include a guide – so you can scrub up on your knowledge of Balinese culture, appreciate intricate temples and take in epic views in record time.

Private Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance Evening Tour in Jimbaran Bay
Private Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance Evening Tour in Jimbaran Bay

Viator


Bali

3. Go on water activities in Seminyak

What better way to cool off on a warm day than with a visit to the beach?

Add a new level of fun by testing your balancing skills on an inflatable donut in the ocean at Tanjung Benoa, learning to surf at Seminyak Beach or searching for marine life at Nusa Penida.

Catch the Waves at Seminyak Beach with a Surfing Lesson
Catch the Waves at Seminyak Beach with a Surfing Lesson

Viator


Bali

4. Explore Tegalalang and take in views from the Bali Swing

With its lush greenery and perfectly-maintained rural land, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a highlight for visitors to Ubud.

The best time to visit is during sunset. If you get there early enough, you'll get to explore without the crowds.

While there, get harnessed up and take in the views from the Bali Swing. You can choose from a variety of swings to get the best views overlooking the rice terraces.


Bali

5. Get up close with the animals at Bali Zoo and Bali Safari

Interact with Bali's wildlife at one of its many zoos and parks.

Bali Zoo is accessible from Kuta and offers an unforgettable breakfast experience where you can eat being surrounded by orangutans, elephants and birds.

If you're not an early bird, the guided night tour lets you feed elephants from a double-decker bus and enjoy a Brazilian dinner and a traditional fire show.

Want to see more and spend more time with animals? With 40 hectares to explore, a visit to the Bali Safari and Marine Park is sure to hit the spot. Within its borders are 400 residents from Indonesia, Africa and India, including elephants, tigers and orangutans.

There's even an opportunity to feed piranhas and white tigers if you're brave enough.


Bali

6. Climb Mount Batur

A 2am wake-up call may not sound enticing, but we promise it's worth it to see sunrise views from the peak of Mount Batur.

When you arrive, you will be given a quick briefing, then commence the approximate 3-hour trek to the peak. Take in the views and enjoy a local breakfast before making your way back down.


Bali

7. Bask in the sun at the Bali beach

If you have young ones, there are a range of water sports and surfing activities that the whole family can get involved in.

Many beaches act as a base from where island tours depart. If you're up for the adventure, walk along the boardwalk to find people at booths advertising activities and see what tours are departing nearby.

Bali Snorkeling Activities at Blue Lagoon Beach-All Inclusive
Bali Snorkeling Activities at Blue Lagoon Beach-All Inclusive

Viator


Bali

8. Make new friends at Ubud Monkey Forest

Ubud Monkey Forest is home to grey long-tailed macaques. You won't have to wander around them long to realise they create an abundance of entertainment in the way they interact with each other and with humans.

If you want to spend the whole day exploring Ubud, including its famous temples, there are tours that can take you to all of the hotspots, including Monkey Forest.

Ubud Tour through Temple, Monkey Forest, and Waterfalls
Ubud Tour through Temple, Monkey Forest, and Waterfalls

Viator


Bali

9. Hang out at Finns Beach Club

There's nothing quite like Finns Beach Club anywhere else in Bali. It's luxurious, relaxing and just what you need when on holiday.

The beachfront venue has 4 pools, including an infinity pool and 2 swim-up bars, single and double day beds and a resident DJ daily from 9am.

Finns has dedicated areas for families and adults to ensure everyone has the best experience.

Stick around during the late afternoon to catch the striking sunset before dancing the night away.


Picture not described

10. Get into zen mode with a yoga class

Release your inner yogi with a relaxing yoga class.

If you're going to Canggu specifically to zen out, purchasing a multipass lets you attend multiple classes for less. Otherwise, you can book classes as you go for a more leisurely experience.

Canggu is filled with yoga studios with styles from Vinyasa to Sivananda.

A few even offer accommodation and yoga packages, so your commute to class can be a matter of a few steps away.


Free things to do in Bali

  • Hit the waves on Bali's best beaches
  • Visit Bali's terracotta village
  • Relax and catch the sunsets across Bali's beaches
  • Stroll one of the trails along Campuhan Ridge Walk
  • Explore hidden beaches

Bali attractions map

Latest Bali deals

Stephanie Yip's headshot
Written by

Publisher

Stephanie Yip was the travel editor at Finder and has been writing about travel and lifestyle for over a decade. She has written for a range of travel publications including Thomas Cook Magazine and Showpo. Stephanie has a Bachelor of Communications from the University of Technology Sydney, Australia, and has visited over 50 countries (and counting). She has a passion for sharing her experiences and knowledge of travel and helping consumers stretch their travel cash while on holiday. See full bio

More resources on Finder

More guides on Finder Shopping

Go to site