From the chaotic megaclubs in Jakartato the reggae bars of backpacker-filled Bali, you’ll find a ton of options for your night out in Indonesia. Whether you want to dance all night, see a traditional performance, or just sip some drinks on the beach, Indonesia has you covered.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best places to experience the nightlife in Indonesia, what to expect, and how you can best conquer the night in this amazing country.
Best Places to Experience Indonesia’s Nightlife
Bali – The Island That Never Sleeps
For buzzing nightlife, Bali is the spot, drawing big clubbers, music fans, and anyone who just wants a chill night at the beach.
1. Seminyak
Featuring luxury beach clubs and stylish cocktail bars, Seminyak is a more upscale but still relaxed party scene. The likes of Potato Head Beach Club and Ku De Ta have become synonymous with the town, serving up seaside vistas, mouthwatering drinks, and A-list DJs.
You’ll find a blend of travelers and expats in the crowd, making it a great place to grab a sunset drink before dancing the night away.
2. Kuta
If you want a loud, fun, all-night party, head to Kuta. There are a lot of nightclubs, bars, and lounges in the area, and the crowd tends to be pretty young.
Nightclubs such as Sky Garden and Bounty Discotheque offer dance parties that rage all night and feature cheap drinks and international DJs.
3. Canggu
A bit more chill but still lively, Canggu is up-and-coming. It has beach bars and a more relaxed ambience, with hangout spots such as Old Man’s and The Lawn for live music, tasty food, and good times directly on the water.
The nightlife in Bali is as eclectic as its visitors: whether you’re looking to dance until dawn or sip drinks as the sun sets, the island’s bars have you covered.
Jakarta - A Thriving Urban Nightlife
Indonesia’s teeming capital is home to an exciting, eclectic nightlife of elite clubs, karaoke, live music, and interesting bars and restaurants.
1. Rooftop Bars:
To enjoy amazing views of the city, head to one of Jakarta’s rooftop bars that serve a delectable cocktail and play some excellent music, such as SKYE Bar & Restaurant and Cloud Lounge & Living Room. It’s the best place to see the city awaken.
2. Live Music & Clubs:
Jakarta also boasts a lot of live music too. Places like Hard Rock Café Jakarta and The Jaya Pub showcase local bands while clubs like Blowfish and Colosseum tend to draw amazing sound systems and international DJs.
If you love EDM or hip-hop, the clubs in the city will be pulsating with activity until dawn.
3. Karaoke:
If you’re looking for something that the locals do, spend an evening at a traditional karaoke bar.
Family Karaoke and Red Box Karaoke are two of the most popular chains with huge amounts of songs in both Indonesian and English, as well as big rooms for groups. It’s a relaxing and very unpretentious way to spend an evening out with friends.
Jakarta is a non-stop metropolis that has something to do for everyone — whether you enjoy walking around clubs or trying cuisine from all over the world!
Yogyakarta - Cultural Nights with a Local Twist
Yogyakarta, the arts and culture center of Indonesia, has a pretty unique nightlife scene. It’s a town where you can watch traditional shows, wander night markets, and relax in laid-back coffee shops.
1. Cultural Performances
If you’re in Yogyakarta, see if you can catch a traditional Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) or Ramayana Ballet performance.
These shows are usually performed in local theaters, temples, or cultural centers, and are a great way to dive into Indonesian arts and folklore.
2. Cafes and Bars with a Traditional Feel
Yogyakarta has a number of cafes and bars that mix old and new with traditional aesthetics.
Spots like The House of Raminten provide a weird and wonderful introduction to Javanese culture, with excellent local food and drink served in a traditional environment.
Here you’ll find old + modern + traditional +balanced to create its own unique place for an evening.
3. Malioboro Street
After the sun goes down, this is the street for street food stands, local stores, and street performers.
It’s wonderful to wander around, snack on local treats (try Gudeg, a local Yogyakartan specialty), and take in the local scene. It’s not a “party” street but there’s a lot of life and local vibe.
Nightlife in Yogyakarta is more about soaking up Indonesia’s culture rather than partying hard. It’s low-key and authentic.
Surabaya - Night Markets and Local Eats
Surabaya is Indonesia’s second-largest city and unique nightlife destination, with markets, food, and a real local vibe. It won’t be as over-the-top as Bali or Jakarta but that’s what’s so likable about it.
1. G-Walk
This outdoor food and entertainment area of West Surabaya was a lot of fun. Indigo told me that if I wanted to experience the local nightlife scene, this was the place to do it.
I could sample all sorts of Indonesian snacks and meals from the vendors, sit outside in a relaxed setting take in the live music, and taste many different types of Surabaya street food, like Rujak Cingur (a salad featuring boiled vegetables and cow’s nose).
2. Tunjungan Plaza
If you’re looking to shop or be entertained, there are a variety of shopping centers and nightclubs at Tunjungan Plaza where you can unwind after a day of exploring. You’ll find tons of cheap cafes as well, many open until late at night.
3. Karaoke and Local Bars
Surabaya has experienced an explosion of karaoke bars and local bars. The Pub Surabaya offers drinks, a vibrant ambience, and regular live performances.
Nightlife in Surabaya is food-focused and casual, making it a great food-focused city where you can experience Indonesia’s night markets and local flavor.
What to Expect From Indonesia’s Nightlife
Every Kind of Venue: Whether you want to party all night on a beach, have a relaxing dinner by the sea, or see a traditional performance, Indonesia has you covered.
Music and Dancing: In the larger cities, be prepared for tons of dancing and music — often live, sometimes just DJ sets. Nightclubs here are equipped with international DJs, live bands, and an assortment of electronic, hip-hop, and local tunes.
Safety: For the most part, Indonesia is a safe country to visit yet, as with any destination, be sure to watch your possessions and avoid shady or unfamiliar areas after dark.
Locals are Fun: Indonesians are generally pretty fun. You’ll see that they enjoy a night out and can give you some really solid advice of where to have one yourself.
Cultural Experiences: Whether you’re hitting the beach or taking in traditional dance performances, when the sun goes down on Indonesia, you’re sure to experience the table that this giant nation has on offer.
FAQs
1. Is Indonesia safe at night?
While most of Indonesia is safe for tourists, you should always exercise caution, especially around crowds. Never walk alone at night in an unfamiliar area, and be sure to keep track of your belongs.
2. What should I wear if I am going out at night in Indonesia?
The dress code for the night out depends on where you’re going. In fancier nightclubs and bars, smart casual is often expected, but beach clubs are more casual. If you’re taking in a traditional performance, dress modestly.
3. What time do the clubs close in Indonesia?
In cities like Jakarta and Bali, clubs close between 2-4 a.m. Clubs in Bali often stay open even later, sometimes all night.
4. Is Indonesian nightlife affordable?
Yes! You’ll find everything from night markets to cheap bars and live music venues and be able to thoroughly experience the nightlife on a budget.
Conclusion
Indonesia has a varied late-night scene, from traditional clubs and cultural shows to bars and informal venues.
Whether you’re dancing ‘til sunrise in Bali, watching a traditional musical performance in Yogyakarta, or spending your evening sampling street food in Surabaya, Indonesia’s nightlife scene is sure to keep you entertained.
The best part about Indonesia, is that there’s something fun for everyone and all types of travelers, no matter if you prefer to dance the night away or chill on the beach with a beer under the stars.