Bali Activities

Bali is well known as a surfer’s paradise, thanks in large part for its variety of consistent surf breaks for all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. We especially love Uluwatu, Balian, Nusa Dua, Kuta, and Nusa Lembongan. If you’re just starting out, consider taking a lesson to get the hang of it. Otherwise, surf’s up!

Ubud is the cultural center of Bali, and one of the best areas to explore if you enjoy nature, relaxation and the arts. Popular activities include a trip to the Sacred Monkey Forest, lush Tegalalang Rice Terraces, classes at the Yoga Barn, shopping, visiting the many Balinese temples, trying Kopi Luwak at a local coffee farm, and browsing the many unique art galleries in the area.

Bali and its surrounding islands have many wonderful locations for scuba diving. Scuba enthusiasts flock to Indonesia to see rare marine species such as the mola mola (sunfish), whale sharks, manta rays and more. Diving opportunities exist year-round, and we especially love diving the USS Liberty at Tulamben, Nusa Lembongan, the Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, and Menjangen National Marine Park.

Delve into Balinese dance, music and culture by attending one of the many performances around Bali. We especially love the Legong Dance & Ramayana in Ubud, as well as the famous Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple. Be sure to arrive early for the best seats, and follow the storyline (often given in an accompanying brochure) for a more meaningful understanding.

The sleepy, seaweed-cultivating island of Nusa Lembongan is just a short 45-minute ferry ride from Sanur on Bali’s east coast. This island is not to be missed. The restaurants are great, the diving incredible, and the surf good when swell gets to it. Some of the charms include no cars and an extremely low tide. Playgrounds Resort is our favorite spot to stay while enjoying the quiet charm of Nusa Lembongan. See more of Playgrounds Resort.

Bali is home to some magnificent beaches. Take time to explore some of the best around the island, including the private beach of Karma Kandara, sunset hits of Kuta and Seminyak, relaxing black sand beaches of Balian or Amed, calm waters of Nusa Dua, and the cliff-lined beaches of Uluwatu, including Padang-Padang, Suluban, Bingin, Dreamland and Balangan. No matter what kind of beach you’re searching for, chances are Bali has one that’s guaranteed to make your paradise dreams a reality.

One of the best things about traveling to Bali is the opportunity to kick back and relax. Treat yourself to an inexpensive spa treatment, beachside massage or couples spa day, or relax by the pool at your homestay, hotel or resort. There are also several hotels, such as Jungle Fish in Ubud, that offer access to their stunning pool facilities when you spend 150,000 IDR (around US $11) on food and drink. Worth it!