Take an adventure-packed trip to Bali, Indonesia, designed for first-timers wanting to experience the best this island has to offer. With its stunning landscapes, ancient culture, and wild nightlife, Bali is a tourist hotspot.
Learn all about what to do on the island, enjoy traditional Indonesian cuisine, and learn about its unique culture. Find information on things for families to do and how to party wildly without going to Kuta.
Packed with tips for what to pack and expert travel insight, this guide will help you have a smooth and unforgettable experience in paradise.
Overview of Bali Attractions
Ubud
Ubud is the cultural and artistic center of Bali. With rice paddies lining the hills surrounding the small town and locals selling handmade goods, there’s plenty to do and see.
You can’t miss the Ubud Monkey Forest, which is home to playful monkeys happy to climb on you. It’s a great way to experience the island.
Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most famous sites and shouldn’t be missed. The offshore rock has housed a Hindu shrine for centuries, and it is a popular place for visitors (and for good reason).
While its popularity means you won’t have the place to yourself, it was a highlight for me. The temple faces west, so it’s best to visit in the late afternoon or around sunset (and avoid it at midday). Be sure to capture some photos at sunset.
Seminyak Beach
Seminyak Beach has a chic yet relaxed atmosphere. This trendy beach is perfect for lounging and water sports. At sunset, it becomes lined with cool beach bars and lounges.
If you want a place to relax where there’s still a hint of a party scene, this is the spot.
Mount Batur
Mount Batur is a great excursion for those seeking adventure in Bali’s volcanic terrain. Most people hike up early in the morning to watch the sunrise once they reach the top.
The panoramic views are worth the hike, and you can gaze out over Lake Batur and the surrounding countryside. It’s a hike that promises incredible views and a sense of nature’s wonder.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces just outside Ubud are an incredible example of agricultural landscapes.
They’re not too far from the greenery, and especially when you visit during quieter times of day, you can get a good sense of the ‘subak’ irrigation system that locals maintain here.
It’s relaxing – even with the hawkers – to soak in the natural beauty of the Balinese countryside.
Uluwatu Temple
Situated on a clifftop, Uluwatu Temple is famous for its picturesque location. This sea temple offers sweeping ocean vistas and is known for the Kecak dance shows that take place there daily – and for the monkeys that roam the area.
Sunset is the most popular time to visit this well-known Balinese temple.
Bali Cuisine
Nasi Goreng
One of the most popular dishes of Bali is Fried Rice, called Nasi Goreng. It’s made by stir-frying pre-cooked rice with a sweet soy sauce. You’ll usually find a fried egg and some shrimp crackers on the side.
This is a flavorful dish is worth a try, regardless of whether you’re a long-term resident or newly off the plane. It embodies the Balinese palate.
Babi Guling
Babi Guling, or suckling pig, is a Balinese delicacy. The pig is rubbed with a mixture of local spices and herbs and spit-roasted until golden and crispy.
It’s common to serve it with rice and many sides, creating a medley of flavors. Eating this dish is essentially like having a Balinese festival on your plate.
Satay Lilit
Satay Lilit, an Indonesian take on satay, uses minced meat mixed with grated coconut, coconut milk, and an array of local spices. The meat mixture is then wrapped around lemongrass stalks and grilled until smoky.
You’ll love the flavor and texture combination — it’s a great traditional snack you don’t want to miss.
Lawar
A traditional Balinese salad of vegetables, grated coconut, and minced meat, lawar is a ceremonial dish that’s seasoned with many spices, as well as, on occasion, blood. Its taste is fresh and complex, with a plethora of flavors in each bite.
This is quintessential Balinese food — and a wonderful way to experience the local culture.
Bebek Betutu
Bebek Betutu is a duck that is slow cooked, marinated in a blend of local spices that will blow your mind, then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked for hours. The result is a tender, deeply flavored dish that is a full-on party in your mouth.
This is thoroughly Balinese, and a must-try if you’re staying on the island. It’ll help you better appreciate the culinary roots of Bali.
Cultural Insights and Unique Local Events
Bali is full of cultural and traditional festivals that offer a deeper understanding of the local culture. In addition to Nyepi and Galungan, the Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar is a unique event to attend.
This month-long festival celebrates Balinese dance, music, and art, bringing people from all over the island to Denpasar to participate and compete.
It’s a fantastic way to experience Bali’s cultural heritage.
The Pemuteran Bay Festival is a small event held in the quiet coastal village of Pemuteran.
It focuses on marine conservation and Balinese heritage, with workshops, an underwater photography exhibition, and Balinese dance performances. It’s a fun way to learn about Bali's history and its relationship with the sea.
If you happen to be in Bali during the Mekepung Buffalo Races, be sure to check them out.
Held in Jembrana, this wild event features decorated buffaloes racing across the fields. It’s a great way to learn about traditional life in Bali and experience a festive Balinese community.
Another unique experience on the island is the Kite Festival, usually held in July or August. At Sanur Beach, you can see huge, colorful kites soaring through the sky, showcasing impressive and creative designs.
It’s a festive event that brings everyone together and highlights Bali’s whimsical spirit.
Family-Friendly Bali
Bali is a family vacation paradise with activities for all ages. The Bali Safari and Marine Park is a must-visit, where kids can see elephants, tigers, and more. It’s both fun and educational!
For water activities, Waterbom Bali in Kuta offers waterslides and pools perfect for everyone.
Sanur Beach is known for its clear waters and shallow tide pools, ideal for kids to play in. A bike ride or walk along the beach path is peaceful, and you can enjoy cultural experiences like Taman Nusa Cultural Park, where kids can explore replicas of Balinese villages.
Bali has plenty of family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs, pools, and play areas. Many hotels in Nusa Dua even offer babysitting services. Just bring your children and check in—Bali is truly a family-friendly destination!
Nightlife Beyond Seminyak and Kuta
But Bali’s nightlife isn’t just about Seminyak and Kuta. Head to the night markets off the beaten path for a different experience. The Gianyar Night Market is a perfect example.
The street food smells amazing, you can sample traditional snacks, buy handmade crafts, and the whole local vibe is fantastic—complete with fairy lights everywhere!
For a more laid-back option, check out one of the beach bars away from the tourist hubs. You’ll find a beachside bar at Jimbaran with beanbags on the sand, where you can sip a cocktail as the amber sun sets in front of you.
Or head to Echo Beach in Canggu for some tunes and a relaxed vibe. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the day without losing any of the island's daytime beauty.
Comprehensive Packing and Weather Tips
Bali's Weather: What to Pack Bali has two seasons: dry (April-September) and wet (October-March). During the dry season, pack lightweight, breathable clothes, sunblock, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
Rainy Season Essentials If you're visiting during the rainy season, expect heavy rains but warm weather. A small rain jacket, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella are recommended. The rain is short-lived, so light clothing is fine, and you'll still have time for outdoor activities.
Footwear and Extras For versatile footwear, bring comfortable walking shoes, beach sandals, and sturdy hiking boots if you plan to hike Mount Batur. Don’t forget an adapter for Bali’s two-pin plug system and a compact first-aid kit with any personal meds.
Best Travel Tips and Advice
Safe and Savvy Health Tips
To stay healthy during your stay, drink only bottled water (the tap water is undrinkable here), and always keep hand sanitizer with you (use it liberally after any trip to the market or visit to a temple). Mosquito repellent is a must, particularly in the evenings.
If you’re going to eat street food (it’s delicious and you should), take it slow while your stomach adjusts to the new environment.
Money Matters
There are ATMs across the island, however be aware of skimming and only use machines in well-trafficked areas or within banks themselves.
Staying Connected
Local SIM cards are cheap and readily available so you can keep in touch. Most cafes and restaurants have free Wi-Fi so you won’t be too far out of touch either.
Additionally, downloading offline maps and apps lets you make your way around with very little data needed. Stay connected on the road.
Packing Essentials
Pack light but pack long. Bring lightweight clothing to protect against the spouts of rain you’re sure to experience. And don’t forget the sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat. Comfortable shoes are a lifesaver when you’re walking all over the place, and a reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated.
Lastly, bring a sarong. You’ll need it for visiting temples and days at the beach.
Conclusion
Bali is a land of ancient mysticism, with new adventures around every corner for those who are willing to jump in. Whether it’s the island’s jaw-dropping scenery, its ancient traditions and colorful festivals, or its wonderful world of family fun, there is always something to surprise and delight you.
And remember: the only way to destroy the essence of Bali is to disrespect it or abuse it. So be courteous and go slowly and calmly as you enjoy this vibrant island and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.