Bali offers a plethora of activities to suit every traveler’s taste. Start your day with a serene sunrise at Mount Batur, followed by a rejuvenating yoga session amidst lush rice terraces in Ubud. Explore the island’s rich cultural heritage through visits to ancient temples like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot, where stunning sunsets are a daily spectacle. Dive into the vibrant underwater world by snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of the island’s coral reefs. Indulge in Balinese cuisine through cooking classes and local food tours, and cap off your evenings with lively beachside parties in Seminyak or tranquil stargazing sessions on remote beaches. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Bali promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.

 

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Activities | Festivals | Health & Wellness | Dining & Coffee | One Week On Bali

 

 

Top Things To Do In Bali

 

#1 Surf

Bali is known for its world-class waves, and it doesn’t disappoint. Advanced surfers should head south to Uluwatu, while beginners can take lessons in areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, and Canggu. While the waves have gotten decidedly more popular over the last couple of decades, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect surf spot on your next trip to Bali.

 

#2 Sacred Monkey Forest

A beautiful and fascinating attraction in Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest is definitely a must-see for animal and nature lovers in Bali. While there are definitely a few items to note before visiting, like not carrying food and securing any loose valuables, the monkeys and jungle scenery are truly remarkable. Read our tips for visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest, and have a great time!

#3 Swim in a Waterfall

For many travelers, Bali means inexpensive massages on the beach, infinity pools, and ice-cold Bintangs in the sand. However, some of the best attractions (and swimming holes) are hidden within Bali’s jungle landscape. If you’re up for an adventure, Bali offers many popular choices, including Aling-Aling, Tegenungan, the famed Git Git Falls, Rang Reng Cave Waterfall, and the seven falls of Sekumpul.

#4 Tanah Lot Temple

Located only a short drive west of Canggu, Tanah Lot is the most popular temple in Bali. Sunset hours bring large crowds, and although non-Balinese visitors are not allowed to enter, the offshore view of the temple is a stunning site. Remember to dress accordingly for a temple visit, and check the calendar for upcoming anniversary dates, which often include festive parades.

 

#5 Balinese Cuisine

When in Bali, try Balinese cuisine. Warungs offer excellent local food at great prices, including popular items like Nasi Campur, Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng, Satay, and Gado-Gado. Specialties like Crispy Duck and Babi Guling, in particular, are also excellent choices! Ask locals for their favorite warung recommendations in the area, and you won’t be disappointed.

#6 Browse Local Markets

No matter what you’re searching for, Bali’s local markets probably have it. Artwork, souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, prepared food items, fresh produce, spices, and more, we highly recommend browsing at least one Morning Market. Ask around and look for the most popular ones in locations like Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, and Ubud.

#7 Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Located only a quick 20-minute motorbike ride north of Ubud, the Tegalalang rice terraces offer spectacular views, friendly locals, and otherworldly greenery. Take a steep hike through the rice terraces, and grab a seat at one of the many small cafes at the top to enjoy a fresh fruit juice and a meal with a view. Don’t forget your camera, and carry small change for ‘bridge fees’ throughout the walk.

#8 Drinks with a View in Seminyak

Seminyak is widely known for its array of posh bars, clubs, and restaurants. Order a craft cocktail to enjoy with friends or a loved one at one of the most popular sunset spots in town, such as La Plancha, Ku De Ta, and Potato Head Beach Club, though many other beachside bars offer great views. Bean bags, pool bars, and candlelit tables sound like a dream come true? You’re in the right place.

#9 Sunset at Uluwatu Temple

One of the most memorable places to enjoy a sunset on Bali is Uluwatu Temple. Set high atop a cliff, and get here early (we suggest around 4 pm) to grab seats for the fascinating Kecak Dance performance, held nightly from 6 to 7 pm. One of six major spiritual temples in Bali, the divine powers of Siva, Vishnu, and Brahma are believed to become one here. Be aware of monkeys, and make sure to prearrange a taxi or driver, as public transportation in the area is extremely limited.

 

#10 Scuba Diving

For scuba divers, Bali and its surrounding islands are a dream come true. With warm water, a year-round diving season, and unique marine life, be sure to book a scuba diving trip when traveling to Indonesia. On Bali, we recommend the USS Liberty Wreck in Tulamben, Menjangen National Marine Park, and Padangbai, as well as a trip to Nusa Lembongan or the Gilis. Research the best times of year to see incredible species like the mola mola (sunfish), whale sharks, and huge manta ray population!

#11 Spa Day

On any vacation, it’s important to reserve time to kick back and relax. Luckily, Bali is one of the best places in the world to do just that! Known for its inexpensive and extensive spa offerings, we highly recommend a luxurious full-body Balinese massage, body scrub, scalp massage, hydrating hair cream bath, or spa pedicure and manicure.

#12 Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran Bay

Located only a short drive from Kuta, Jimbaran Bay is an excellent place for a romantic date night. During the day, visitors and locals enjoy calm waves and uncrowded stretches of beach. But by sunset, this place transforms into a major hangout, and for very good reason. Seafood restaurants line the beach, offering inexpensive, fresh fish that’s barbecued to perfection. Make reservations for a beach table at Menega Cafe, and order up a delicious selection of prawns, lobster, red snapper, calamari, clams, and more, all with an amazing view.

 

#13 Tour a Coffee Plantation

First brought to Bali from Lombok in the early 20th century, coffee plantations in the Kintamani area flourished as the most popular growing region on the island. When visiting Bali, take a tour of a coffee plantation or farm to get an inside look at what it takes to produce a single cup of coffee. Sample the famous Kopi Luwak, as well as several other varieties, and ask a driver or local which plantations near you accept visitors. Also, check out local coffee shops in South Bali.

#14 Beach Hop on the Bukit Peninsula

In our opinion, the most beautiful beaches in Bali are located on the Bukit Peninsula. Rent a motorbike or hire a driver and spend the day hopping around to some of the area’s best beaches, including Padang Padang, Suluban (‘Blue Point’), Bingin, Dreamland, Balangan, or the private, and therefore less crowded, shores of Finn’s Beach Club or Karma Kandara. Expect lots of steep stairways, caves, and great views of surfers beyond the reef!

#15 Relax in Amed

Located approximately a 3 1/2 hour drive from Kuta or Seminyak, Amed offers a quiet, scenic getaway on the shores of East Bali. A fishing village with calm waters and excellent snorkeling and scuba diving conditions just offshore, head to this remote area of Bali to enjoy fresh seafood, friendly locals, cheap prices, and epic views of Mount Agung. Be sure to take a fishing trip on a local outrigger boat, and stay in one of the many friendly homestays around town.

#16 Lake Batur

Located in central Bali in the caldera of Mount Batur, Lake Batur is the largest lake on the island. Rent a boat and explore the sites, including the half-submerged house and Trunyan, an above-ground cemetery and the only one like it on Bali. Enjoy a calming ride around the lake, and take in the stunning views from the water. While restaurants are a bit pricey, it’s really the view you’re paying for.

 

#17 Makepung Buffalo Races

A multi-generational tradition that celebrates the rice harvest, water buffalo races are held every Sunday in Jembrana from July to November. Buffalos are paired, along with jockeys and wooden plows, to race in several outdoor circuits in West Bali. Races begin at 7:30 am and last 5 hours, and also include a fun ‘buffalo fashion parade’. This is definitely an activity you won’t forget and a great way to experience a long-running local tradition on Bali.

#18 Cooking Class

Why just taste the local specialties when you can learn to make them yourself? Cooking classes often begin with a tour of a local market, where you’ll get the chance to choose your own spices, vegetables, fish, meat, and fruits. One of the best perks of taking a cooking class is returning home with a whole new menu inspiration and appreciation of Balinese cuisine. Popular cooking classes include Warung Eny in Seminyak, Casa Luna in Ubud, and Bumbu Bali in Tanjung Benoa, though there are many throughout the island.

#19 Banjar Hot Springs

Known locally as “Air Panas Banjar”, Bali’s Banjar Hot Springs is located just south of Lovina in North Bali. With 4 pool sections, head here for a luxurious (and free) soak in the water, renowned for its healing powers. The surrounding lush garden only adds to the enchanting feel, and the warm sulphuric water may just be better than a day at the spa.

#20 Balinese New Year

A national holiday since 1983, Hari Raya Nyepi is the Hindu New Year celebration in Bali and a fascinating time to visit the island. Celebrated on the first new moon in March, Nyepi Day is a day of total silence and self-reflection, with no entertainment, traveling, or work of any kind permitted. The days leading up to this, however, are complete with boisterous parades to scare away the ‘Ogoh Ogoh’, or evil spirits, as well as dancing, drinking, and celebration. Definitely a different way to ring in a new year!

 

#21 Pool Day

Bali, perhaps more than other popular tropical destinations, is home to a huge number of swimming pools of all varieties. Lazy rivers, shallow lagoons, private plunge pools, swim-up pool bars, and the ever-popular infinity pools are a huge draw, especially considering the year-round hot temperatures. Spend a day enjoying poolside cocktails, panoramic views, and optional spa treatments, and thank us later.

#22 Visit Another Island

With so many islands only a short boat ride away, definitely consider extending your trip to explore some of Bali’s neighboring islands, including Lombok, Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan, the luxurious escape of Nusa Lembongan, or white-sand wonders of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, Gili Air, and Gili Gede. Ferries and fast boats run daily from Sanur, Padangbai, and Amed, and definitely look for those with the best safety records, as rough waters are common in the area between islands.

#23 White Water Rafting

Bali’s Ayung River offers ideal opportunities for beginners to advanced rafters, with the bonus of amazing views of rice terraces, rainforest, and jungle landscapes along the way. Bali Adventure Tours offers a popular guided option that’s great for families or groups of friends. Remember that the wet season (November to March) can mean larger rapids and difficulty levels, and be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen on your adventure!

#24 Sunrise at Mount Batur

For those seeking a land adventure, we recommend sunrise trekking on Mount Batur. The hike to the summit, which reaches just over 5,600 feet, takes approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours, and the skyline views from above the clouds are simply breathtaking. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, as the summit is typically between 46 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Enjoy a warm drink at the top, hike around the crater, and watch as steam rises from the walls. Amazing!

Quick Things To Know About Hiking Mount Batur

• Who: Average to physically fit individuals looking for a memorable outdoor adventure and scenic sunrise experience on Bali.
• What: Hiking up the 1717 meter (5633 foot) Mt. Batur volcano
• When: Good any time of year (though best in the dry season from May to September), but be aware that you’ll likely need to leave your hotel between 1:30 am if staying in South Bali, and 3 am if staying nearby, in order to reach the summit by sunrise.
• Where: Batur Village, Kintamani
• Why: The views are beautiful, and you don’t mind working to enjoy them. Also because it’s there, and why not?
• How: Arrange for a driver and guide(s) to take you and the other members of your group safely up and down the volcano.
• Clothing: Wear layers! While you’ll most likely sweat a bit during your hike to the top, the summit is fairly cold. Wear at least a couple of lightweight layers and comfortable walking shoes.
• Items to Bring: Remember to pack plenty of water, and if you have one, bring a headlamp or small flashlight. While guides often have spare ones to hand out to the group, you’ll probably want one all to yourself for the dark hike up.

#25 Tirtagangga Water Palace

Meaning ‘holy water of the Ganges’, the gardens of Tirtagangga were designed in 1948 by the last King of Karangasem. Three complexes make up the palace, which includes ponds, pools, a water tower, and the former home of the King, who was known to work on the grounds himself. Tirtagangga is one of the most photo-worthy places on Bali, and a lovely day trip to see the beauty of the island and its unique garden architecture.

#26 Waterbom Bali

Located in the heart of Kuta, Waterbom Bali is discreetly and conveniently located within walking distance of Kuta Beach and a ton of hotels, homestays, restaurants, street-side shops, and a mall. If you’re staying anywhere in Kuta or Seminyak, it’s only a short motorbike or taxi ride away with plenty of parking and a dedicated parking assistant to watch your bike while inside.

We recommend arriving as early as possible to 1) avoid the lines that form as more people begin arriving later in the day, and 2) secure a locker and/or private gazebo, which tend to fill up quickly. Also, don’t wear a bathing suit or board shorts with metal clasps or any damaging materials, as you’ll have to turn it inside out to ride some slides, and leave any jewelry in your room!

If you plan on spending all day in the sun, you’re eventually going to need some food. Luckily, Waterbom has a huge selection of options, which were surprisingly reasonably priced. Thaitalian serves up an assortment of Thai and Italian comfort food, using ingredients from their waterpark organic garden just outside the seating area! In addition, there are also mojitos at The Shack, sandwiches at Pret a Manger, fresh juices at the UC Juicy Tank, international comfort food at the Wantilan Food Court, and several smaller stands with items like ice cream sandwiches, gelato, and popcorn. Swipe your wristband and you’re good to go!

And lest you forget you’re still in Bali, Waterbom also provides health and wellness treatments like back and shoulder massages, foot reflexology, fish spa therapy, manicures, pedicures, and hair braiding. Visit Waterbom Bali for more information.

Bali Festivals

When we travel to foreign countries, we do so to immerse ourselves in different cultures. Some of the best ways to experience the cultures home to the countries that we visit is to visit them during a time when they celebrate their culture through different festivals. From the Christmas Village in London to Easter in Vatican City, we love to celebrate. Some of the World’s best festivals are held in Bali and with a 210-day calendar, the Balinese are people who know how to party. We took a look at the festivals that they hold annually and here is our top pick of the national festivals to plan your vacation around.

 

The Bali Arts Festival

The Bali Arts Festival began in 1965 and has been an annual event ever since. This year (2017) it will be running for just under a month from the 10th of June until the 8th of July. It is held in Renon Square in the city of Denpasar and features Bali performers from all over the island who come together to celebrate Balinese culture through parades, handcraft exhibitions, stage performances, interactive seminars and so much more. The locals go all out when they decorate the streets in preparation for the festival by decorating the streets with colorfully decorated bamboo and coconut decorations. Along the streets, during the festival, you can catch shadow puppet plays, traditional music compositions, and Youth Performance Competitions. Artists from Bali’s eight provinces and its surrounding islands flock to Denpasar to showcase their talents. The festival kicks off with an opening parade in front of the Bajra Sandhi monument and is a true exhibition of Bali pride.

Galungan Ceremony

The Galungan ceremony is a religious festival held in July to celebrate the battle of virtue (Dharma) against (Adharma) which has become legendary amongst all Balinese Hindus and also celebrates the spread of Hinduism in Bali. Barong Dancers move from temple to temple performing traditional dances in celebration. The festival ends with Kuningan, a day of offerings and prayer at the village temples and family shrines. At the end of the day, families indulge heavily in fantastic feasts. The Galungan festival is the first of a series of religious festivals held in Bali.

Pager Wesi

This is an annual festival in November where the birth of the creator of the universe, Sang Yang or Sangh Yang, is celebrated. The Balinese make offerings to Sang Yang in their homes, shops, and temples to protect them, their souls, and their spirituality from the destructive forces of everyday life. Pager Wesi is the last festival in a sequence of religious celebrations in the Pawukon Calendar (210 days in a year) that shows the spirituality of the Balinese people. It is celebrated on the last Wednesday of the Pawukon calendar called the Wednesday of Shinta.

The Bali Kite Festival

As laid back and relaxed as the Balinese lifestyle is, if there is one thing that they take seriously, it’s their kites. For months leading to the festival’s opening ceremony every July on Pandang Galak beach, towns, and villages spend time crafting incredible giant kites that they fly in competition with other towns. Traditionally, it was a religious festival for people to send messages to the Hindu gods asking for favorable crops and harvests to come. The kites in the competition are judged on flying ability, stability, design, and landing. It is the one time of year when families come together for a fun-filled time and let their hair down.

The Rice Harvest Festival

The annual Rice Harvest festival marks the end of the harvest season in Bali where rice is a common staple. Visitors are often invited to join in on the festivities and sample traditional food made in honor of Dewi Sri, the Rice god. A famous part of the festival is the Negara Bull Races held in Perancak where water buffaloes are decorated and raced along the streets. The Rice Harvest festival is held in May and towns are decorated with colorful flags and shrines of Dewi Sri are erected in the rice paddies.

Melasti

This is a purification ceremony held the day before and in preparation for Nyepi, the Hindu New Year, where the world is cleansed of all evil spirits and devils through the symbolic act of acquiring the water of life (Tirta Amerta). Every village takes part in this festival where sacred objects from each village and large statues of the gods are carried to the beaches for religious purification bathing. The locals who don’t receive the honor of bathing the statues symbolically throw their sins and bad karma into the ocean to be washed away. It is a very important festival for the Balinese people as it allows them to rid the island of the filth of sin and all its bad karma. The majestic temples found throughout Bali are also cleansed and purified with Tirta Amerta. It is done in a style of majesty the flags called Umbul-Umbul are erected all over the beaches and the Balinese come in their most beautiful traditional dress.

Nyepi Festival

This is the Hindu New Year festival, also known as the Hindu day of silence, and although to an outsider it may seem to be a strict one, it is overflowing with religious symbolism. For 24 hours starting on the 28th of March this year (2017), people abstain from material pleasures and physical activities. All the usual daily hustle and bustle of Bali comes to a standstill and roads and the only airport in Bali are empty of traffic (with the exception of emergency service vehicles) and people stay in their homes meditating and fasting. It is a public holiday reserved for self-reflection and local customs include low lighting, no fires, no entertainment, no working, no talking, no pleasures, no traveling, and no eating. The only people who you will find in the streets are the Pecalang who ensure the local customs are being followed. At the end of the 24-hour period, people scream at the top of their lungs to scare off evil spirits and then the party starts.

Health & Wellness Retreats

The tropical paradise of Bali, “The Island of the Gods”, is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. Whatever your ideal vacation may be, Bali is sure to have a resort that will suit your needs. We have looked all over the beautiful Island of Bali and found the top 10 resorts that will not only give you a great vacation but will also help you relax, heal, and go home a healthier person in mind, body, and soul.

 

Fivelements

The Fivelements resort, located in the town of Puri Ahimsa, has focused itself on helping create high-impact wellness strategies for its clients to throw themselves into and take home when they leave. The founders believe that by leading a better life through a healthier lifestyle it will lead to a happier world. Their healing strategies are inspired by the Balinese way of life, which encourages a greater self-harmony with the spirit, the environment, and other people. Fivelements is designed to help guests tune into all levels of one’s physical, emotional, and spiritual being for a completely natural healing process from the stresses of life at home. The therapies you can expect from this incredible resort stem from traditional Balinese therapies and beliefs that we all live in two worlds, the conscious (sekala) and the unseen (niskala). Fivelements specializes in healing with meditation, chakra balancing sessions, deep bodywork, and prana energy healing where the five elements are used to heal the body. The Beauty Sanctuary at Fivelements will provide you with every spa treatment you can imagine. All products in these therapies are freshly made at the Fivelements Laboratory. Fivelements offers guests several packages to choose from with the option to add where and whatever you like.

The Yoga Barn

This little rustic-themed resort in the town of Ubud has dedicated itself to providing its guests with a relaxing and inspiring environment where they can unwind and just simply relax. They have mastered the art of yoga and have professional instructors who give 15 daily classes in yoga, dance, detox methods, meditation and so much more. The facilities at The Yoga Barn include six yoga studios, ten rooms for guests, a healing center, spa, amphitheater, juice bar, garden café, and of course a wonderful yoga shop for all your personal equipment needs.

Bali Silent Retreat

If peace and quiet are what you desire on your vacation to Bali then this resort is exactly what the doctors ordered. Found just outside the small village of Mongan, the Bali Silent Retreat believes in healing through silent self-reflection. They give you the freedom to design your own schedule and fill up your days with meditation, yoga, trips to the natural hot springs, and discussions on Balinese culture and cooking. If you are lucky enough to visit during the full or new moon, you can take part in the magical fire healing ceremonies. Bali Silent Retreat provides their guests with three vegetarian meals a day with organic vegetables that they grow in their own garden. The element that makes this resort so special is their belief in the Ashram Living Style where guests are required to make up their own rooms and wash their own dishes. They believe in a garbage-in garbage-out system where any garbage you bring with you that is non-recyclable or compostable (such as cosmetic packages and candy bar wrappers) needs to be left with you. As mentioned, healing is done through quiet self-reflection and therefore talking is discouraged except for designated “Chat-Zones”. Wi-Fi and electrical outlets are limited, however, if you need help with either or if you’d like your room cleaned for you, the staff will be happy to help and all you need to do is ask.

 

 

Bali Mountain Retreat

Bali MassageFor the love of music and music lovers everywhere, this is a paradise inside a paradise. Bali Mountain Retreat provides its guests with workshops in guitar, songwriting, and singing and introduces them to traditional Balinese music. Guests are invited to local performances and trips to the cultural centers of the city of Ubud. Try and organize your trip to the Bali Mountain Retreat around a festival or ceremony to be included and have a truly fulfilling and unforgettable time. The Bali Mountain Retreat isn’t just about music and learning, but also about relaxing and having fun with spa treatments and all meals included in your stay.

Surf Goddess Retreat

A retreat for women created by women to relax, surf, eat, and repeat. What more can be said? Located on an untainted beach in Ubud, the Surf Goddess Retreat provides its guests with surfing and paddle board lessons, organic meals, yoga and meditation sessions, and what every woman needs when on vacation, spa treatments and free Wi-Fi.

The Chillhouse

If the name doesn’t give it away, nothing else will. Located in Canggu, The Chillhouse immerses its guests in the tropical Balinese culture and lifestyle. They pride themselves in three activities for a healthy lifestyle: biking, surfing, and yoga. The biking element allows for the guests to have a healthy body through sports, surfing for mind and body, and yoga for the soul. Their surfing lessons range from beginner to intermediate with onsite ISA surf coaches. Four different styles of yoga are taught: Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin, and Kundalini. Their facilities include a spa, two swimming pools, a poolside bar, and unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi.

Escape Haven

This award-winning resort is another that was created by women for women. Their philosophy is that with love and care, every woman has the ability to blossom into the most radiant version of herself. As women give so much of themselves to those they love, sometimes a woman just needs to be indulged. There are three pre-planned packages to choose from, all of which include spa treatments, yoga and meditation sessions, detox programs, and surf and fitness programs. The truly amazing thing about Escape Haven is that they run their own charity called the Creating Futures Foundation (CFF) where they use innovative educational systems to help the children of Bali learn the skills they will need for a successful future.

Desa Seni

Set in the rice fields of Canggu, the Desa Seni resort is a space of complete rest and total relaxation. They pride themselves in their organic gourmet meals and all their facilities created to give their guests a vacation to remember. Their in-house spa specializes in all spa treatments and reflexology, and as with all the mentioned retreats and resorts, yoga and meditation sessions are provided.

Bali Dining

Here are some of our favorite places to eat when visiting Bali. There are so many more but finding great food is one of the best ways to explore Bali so get out there and have a food adventure!

Breakfast – Crate in Canggu

Breakfast, or ‘brekkie’, is big business on Bali. Located on Batu Bolong in Canggu, Crate is the place to be for a morning meal before a surf session, yoga class, or afternoon Bintang on the beach. With excellent prices, large portions, cozy seating options, and good tunes, we highly recommend a cappuccino or smoothie with the breakfast burrito, generous brekkie plate, or eggs with feta and tomatoes. Delicious!

 

Acai Bowls – Nalu Bowls in Seminyak, Canggu or Uluwatu

With three current locations, Nalu Bowls is catching on as the fresh, healthy go-to for fruity goodness on Bali. All ingredients are locally sourced, and all bowls are topped with their homemade granola. Our favorite bowl is the Pipeline with Banana, Pineapple, Mango, Coconut, Coconut Milk, and Coconut Water, although all of them are extremely tasty!

Kid-Friendly – Pirates Bay in Nusa Dua

If you plan on bringing the family to Bali or just really like the idea of dining in the trees, Pirates Bay in Nusa Dua is the place to do it! With multi-level treehouses, private dining cabanas, and even a full-blown pirate ship, this place is a dream playground turned restaurant come true. While the food isn’t particularly memorable, the ambiance and general atmosphere are too good to pass up, even for adults.

Mexican Food – Lacalaca Cantina in Seminyak

A great option for afternoon happy hour (Monday through Thursday from 5 to 7 pm), head here for delicious items like carnitas, carne asada tacos, and fresh-made margaritas. They also have a great brunch menu with items like huevos rancheros and bloody mary’s and don’t skip the churros with chocolate sauce for dessert. Yum!

 

Seafood Dinner – Menega Cafe in Jimbaran

Located at the lovely Jimbaran Bay, make a reservation for an oceanfront table at this South Bali staple. Without a doubt, this is one of the most romantic meals you can experience on Bali, and also some of the best fresh fish on the island. Choose your own seafood at the entrance, including lobster, clams, crab, snapper, prawns, and more, and sit back, relax, and enjoy the views as the sky changes color while eating an amazing meal.

Gastropub & Cocktails – The Fire Station in Sanur

With an inviting atmosphere on a quiet street in Sanur, The Fire Station serves up a delicious variety of gastropub-style foods, as well as excellent cocktails, beer, and wine. Try one of their specialties like the Crispy Pork Belly or Guinness Beer-Battered Fish & Chips, and enjoy the lively decor, great music, and fun times with friends and family. This is one of our favorite places to eat!

Sashimi – Sakanaya in Seminyak

While it doesn’t look like much from the outside, Sakanaya is THE place to get fresh fish and sashimi in Seminyak. With amazing prices and friendly, laid-back service and atmosphere, order the large plate of sashimi as well as the fish and chips and fish tacos. You really can’t go wrong with anything here, and make sure to ask for the special green sauce!
We will update this list with our latest restaurant reviews, so be sure to check back often for the latest Bali dining recommendations!

 

South Bali Coffee Shops

Despite it being the approximate temperature of the actual sun outside, Bali is one of the best places in the world to drink coffee. In fact, in 2014, Indonesia was the 4th largest coffee-producing country in the world, a practice originally brought to Bali by Dutch colonists. Having moved here from Hawaii, we know good coffee from the many amazing Maui Coffee Shops we frequented to the point of roommate status. That being said, here are some great spots to grab a cup or 10 here in Bali.

While we absolutely suggest visiting a coffee farm while in Bali, this isn’t that post. We’re here to give you some of our favorite places to grab a delicious cup of coffee when traveling in South Bali, namely in the areas of Legian, Seminyak, and Canggu.

*Note: There are A TON of coffee shops in these areas, and it’s nearly impossible to name who has the absolute best among 100+ options. Popular coffee shops and cafes like Crate, Revolver, etc. have been written about and mentioned in list upon list (for good reason), but we’ve decided to give a bit of attention to some lesser-known but equally deserved local businesses. Enjoy, and happy caffeinating!

 

Bija Coffee at The Cabin – Seminyak

Cozy, adorable, and charming are three adjectives I would use to describe The Cabin. A newcomer to the competitive coffee world in Seminyak, The Cabin opened in February 2015 and is definitely worth a visit. Fun tunes, quaint surroundings, and small, decorative touches make you feel as if you’re drinking in someone’s wood cabin instead of a pretentious coffee shop.

Coffee varieties include Kopi Bali, Robusta, Arabica, Toraja, and Aceh, and we highly recommend an espresso or flat white alongside an order of the pancakes, Roti Goreng, or Afghany Beat. YUM!

Machinery Cafe Bali – Canggu

Stellar service, interesting decor, and amazing coffee make this one of the best new places to start your morning in Canggu. While there’s no shortage of busy brekkie hangouts in the area, we love the funky recycled machines and friendliness from the staff, which goes above and beyond what we’ve experienced in Bali elsewhere.

Grab a cup of Indonesian black coffee or Vietnamese Drip with condensed milk, and try the Eggs Benedict, Running Rosti, or Pork Kecap and thank us later. Oh, and don’t skip their amazing desserts!

The Fat Turtle – Seminyak

One of my favorite places in Bali to treat myself to a yummy (yet unhealthy) breakfast, The Fat Turtle is a small, chic little spot with the best red velvet pancakes in the universe. And you know what goes well with red velvet pancakes? A red velvet latte, y’all!

While the service is hit or miss and the kitchen noticeably slow (mostly on busy days, to their credit), the pancakes, lattes, and green tea churros make it worth the wait. Pro Tip: Head here before or after peak brunch hours, as seating is limited.

Canteen Cafe – Canggu

The word is out about the Canteen Cafe. But that’s a good thing. Get here early to grab a seat and enjoy the laid-back, family-style dining tables. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming with surf decor, the service friendly yet somewhat scattered, and the coffee top-notch.

The banana hot cakes with warm coconut honey were delicious, as were the housemade chai tea, espresso, and flat white. Great for groups or those looking to kick back with a book over breakfast.

One Week on Bali

While those of us who live in Bali are fortunate enough to have time on our side, the majority of visitors have around one week to see the many sites and attractions of the Island of the Gods. And though you simply can’t experience everything Bali has to offer in 7 days, you can still have an amazing trip full of both relaxation and adventure. Below we’ve outlined a sample itinerary for one week in Bali. While there are endless possibilities based on your personal interests and travel priorities, this is a solid start. Enjoy, and happy travels!

 

Day 1 – 3: Uluwatu

A short cab ride from the airport will land you in Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, an area known for its white sand beaches framed by steep ocean cliffs, amazing surf, and panoramic sunset views.

Recommended Activities:

Beach Hopping at Padang Padang, Saturday Night Beach Party, Kacek Dance Performance at Uluwatu Temple, Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran Bay (Menega Cafe)

 

Day 3 – 5: Seminyak & Canggu

After you’ve enjoyed plenty of fun and relaxation in Uluwatu, we recommend a short cab ride to the popular areas of Seminyak and Canggu. Known for fun nightlife, chic bars and restaurants, amazing spas, and shopping, this is where you’ll get a taste of busier city life on Bali.

Recommended Activities:

Seminyak Food Scene, Echo Beach, Sunset at La Plancha Bali, Tanah Lot Temple, Check out Local Surf Breaks, Not a great spot for swimming though.

 

Day 5 – 7: Ubud, Amed, Singaraja or Munduk

For the final portion of your Bali adventure, we recommend escaping the beach and city life to explore more of Bali’s natural, remote beauty in places like Ubud (still crowded, but near many enjoyable activities), Amed (small, charming fishing village with great scuba diving), Singaraja or Munduk (excellent waterfalls and quiet, relaxed vibe).

Recommended Activities:

Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Bali temples, Coffee Farms, Art Market, Mount Batur, Lake Batur, Museum Hopping, Scuba/Snorkel, & Jungle Hiking

 

For more great Bali information use the links below.

Bali Trip Preparation | Visa Info | Accommodations | Regions | Moving To Bali