The best things to do in Bali, Indonesia, go far beyond beaches, from temples and rice terraces to waterfalls, surfing and traditional villages. The best things to do in Bali depend on which part of the island you base yourself in, so this guide starts with a table by area, then covers the top experiences, ready-made 1, 2 and 3-day routes, and practical tips on rain, temples and costs.
Things to Do in Bali by Area
Budget feel below is a rough guide rather than a price list: most outdoor sights are free or low-cost, while spa days, boat trips and guided activities cost more. Check current prices before you book.
| Area | Top things to do | Time to allow | Budget feel | Best time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ubud and central Bali | Rice terraces, temples, markets, galleries, waterfalls, cooking and cultural classes | 1 to 2 days | Low to moderate | Mornings for terraces; dry season for waterfalls |
| Uluwatu and the Bukit | Cliff temple, surf beaches, sunset viewpoints | 1 day | Low to moderate | Late afternoon for sunset |
| Seminyak, Canggu and the west coast | Beach sunsets, cafes, surfing, Tanah Lot temple | Half to full day | Moderate | Late afternoon for sunset; early for Tanah Lot |
| Sanur and the east coast | Calm beaches, cycling, family-friendly days, boats to the Nusa islands | Half day | Low | Mornings |
| Mount Batur and the north | Sunrise volcano hike, lakes, waterfalls | Early start plus rest of day | Moderate | Dry season for clear sunrises |
| Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan | Cliffs, beaches, snorkeling and diving | 1 to 3 days | Moderate to higher | Calm-sea days in the dry season |
| Gili Islands | Beaches, snorkeling, diving, relaxed island atmosphere | 2 or more days | Moderate | Calm-sea days in the dry season |
Top Things to Do in Bali
1. Visit Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple sits dramatically on a cliff above the Indian Ocean and is one of Bali’s most impressive coastal viewpoints, especially around sunset. Dress respectfully and follow the temple’s rules. Be careful around the cliffs and keep belongings secure, since monkeys are common. Our Uluwatu travel guide covers the area in depth.
2. Explore Ubud
Ubud is one of Bali’s main cultural centers, where you can spend a day among temples, markets, galleries, restaurants and surrounding countryside, and a convenient base for rice terraces, waterfalls and other sights in central Bali. See our Ubud travel guide, and compare it with the coast in Uluwatu vs Ubud.
3. See the Rice Terraces
Rice terraces are among Bali’s most recognizable landscapes. The Tegallalang area near Ubud is particularly popular, although there are many other rice-growing areas on the island. Visit early for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
4. Visit Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot stands on a rocky formation near the coast and is particularly popular around sunset. Crowds can be significant, so arriving early makes the visit more comfortable.
5. Visit a Traditional Balinese Temple
Temples are part of everyday life in Bali, and beyond the famous sights there are temples in towns and villages. Dress appropriately, respect religious ceremonies, and expect some temples to require a sarong or covered shoulders and knees.
6. Watch the Sunset
The west coast around Seminyak and Canggu is popular for beach sunsets, Uluwatu offers dramatic cliff views, and Tanah Lot is another famous spot. Arrive before sunset, because popular viewpoints fill up. Our guides to Seminyak and Canggu cover what else to do nearby.
7. Visit a Waterfall
Bali has numerous waterfalls, particularly in the central and northern parts of the island, and some require a short hike. Water levels and access change during the wet season, so check local conditions, and wear shoes with grip because paths can be slippery.
8. Try Balinese Food
Try local dishes such as nasi campur, ayam betutu, lawar and babi guling. Local warungs are a good way to eat well without spending much, and the main tourist areas also have a wide range of international restaurants. Our Bali food guide lists dishes to try.
9. Spend Time at a Bali Beach
Kuta and Seminyak are convenient in the south, Uluwatu and the Bukit offer dramatic coastal scenery, and Sanur has a calmer atmosphere popular with families. See our guide to the best beaches in Bali to pick one.
10. Go Surfing
Surfing is one of Bali’s most popular activities, with breaks for different levels. Beginners can take lessons from established surf schools, while experienced surfers can choose from many known breaks. Always check local conditions.
11. Go Snorkeling or Diving
Popular spots include areas around Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Amed. Visibility and sea conditions vary by season and location, so choose reputable operators and follow responsible practices.
12. Hike Mount Batur
Mount Batur is one of Bali’s most popular volcano hikes, and the sunrise trek is particularly well known. It needs an early start and reasonable fitness, and weather can change quickly at higher elevations. In practice the trek is run through the local guide association at the trailhead, so most visitors book a guide.
13. Relax at a Balinese Spa
Spa treatments are a major part of the tourist experience, from simple local massage to luxury resort spas. A traditional Balinese massage is a popular way to unwind after sightseeing, and prices vary widely.
14. Explore the Gili Islands
The Gili Islands lie between Bali and Lombok and are known for beaches, snorkeling, diving and a relaxed atmosphere. Gili Trawangan is the liveliest, Gili Air balances activity and relaxation, and Gili Meno is generally quieter. A boat transfer is required, so allow time. See our Gili Islands travel guide.
15. Visit Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is famous for dramatic cliffs, beaches and viewpoints. It can be a day trip from Bali, although staying overnight gives more time, and boat connections depend on weather and sea conditions. Do not try to see every viewpoint in one day. Our Nusa Penida travel guide and guide to getting from Sanur to the Nusa islands help you plan.
Bali Routes: 1, 2 and 3 Days
Traffic can make short distances take a long time, so each route below keeps you in one area per day.
One day
Spend the day on the southern Bukit: a morning at a beach, lunch at a local warung, then Uluwatu Temple in the late afternoon and the cliff sunset.
Two days
- Day 1, Ubud: rice terraces early, a temple and the market, then galleries or a cooking class.
- Day 2, the south: a beach morning and Uluwatu Temple for sunset.
Three days
- Day 1, Ubud and central Bali: terraces early, a waterfall and the market.
- Day 2, Mount Batur: a sunrise hike if you are fit, then a spa afternoon back in Ubud.
- Day 3, the west coast: Tanah Lot in the afternoon and a sunset beach near Canggu.
For longer plans, see our 7-day Bali itinerary, 10-day Bali itinerary and 14-day route, and our Bali travel guide for the whole island.
Free Things to Do in Bali
Some of the best experiences cost little. You can walk along beaches, explore local streets, visit markets and watch sunsets without paying for expensive attractions. Hiking and exploring rural areas can also be inexpensive, though some attractions charge entrance fees. Foreign visitors also pay a one-time tourist levy of Rp 150,000 per person during a trip, paid online or on arrival, so include it in your budget; our guide to what Bali costs helps with the rest.
Things to Do in Bali When It Rains
Rain does not have to ruin your trip. Visit museums, galleries, cafes and spas, explore local markets, or take a cooking class. If rain is heavy, avoid waterfalls, steep trails and boat trips until conditions improve. For seasons, see our Bali weather by month and Bali rainy season guide.
Things to Avoid in Bali
- Feeding or disturbing wildlife.
- Ignoring temple rules.
- Swimming in dangerous sea conditions.
- Riding a scooter beyond your experience level.
- Littering at beaches, temples or natural attractions.
- Overcrowded itineraries that spend most of the day in traffic.
For more practical advice, see our guides on how safe Bali is and getting around the island.
How Many Activities Should You Plan Each Day?
Two or three main activities are usually enough. Trying to visit six or seven attractions in a day often means spending more time traveling than enjoying them, so group attractions that are close together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Bali for first-time visitors?
Visit a cliff temple such as Uluwatu, spend a day around Ubud’s rice terraces, watch a sunset, try Balinese food at a local warung and add one outdoor activity such as the Mount Batur sunrise hike or a day at the beach. You do not need to see everything on a first trip.
How many days do I need in Bali?
Three days covers a good first taste of Ubud, the southern coast and a sunset, while a week gives time for a day trip to Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands. Traffic makes short distances slow, so plan fewer stops per day.
When is the best time for things to do in Bali?
The dry season, roughly April to October, is the most reliable for temples, hikes and boat trips. The wet season brings afternoon rain and rougher seas, but many indoor and cultural activities work in any season.
Is there a tourist tax for Bali?
Yes. Foreign visitors pay a one-time levy of Rp 150,000 per person during a trip, paid online before arrival or at the airport or port, and you receive a QR voucher by email. Check the official Love Bali site for current rules and exemptions.
What should I wear to a temple in Bali?
Dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered. Some temples require a sarong or sash, which can often be borrowed or rented at the entrance, and visitors should follow all posted rules and respect ceremonies.
Do I need a guide for Mount Batur?
In practice, the sunrise trek is run through the local guide association at the trailhead, so you will usually book a guide, which most tours include. Confirm the current arrangements with your operator.
Are Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands day trips from Bali?
Nusa Penida can be done as a day trip, though staying overnight gives more time. The Gili Islands need a boat transfer and are better with at least a night or two. Boats depend on weather and sea conditions.
Final Advice
The best things to do in Bali are not necessarily the attractions with the biggest crowds. Mix famous landmarks with local food, beaches, nature and time to simply explore, and focus on a few areas rather than the whole island. That approach gives you more time to enjoy Bali and less time sitting in traffic.
