I go to Bali quite often, and over the years many friends and travelers have asked me for tips and advice. From the best beaches to surf, to quiet spots for relaxation, hidden temples, amazing food, and practical travel tips, this guide shares everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to the island.
Kuta
Kuta is the area near the airport, even though it’s called Denpasar Airport. It’s convenient if you just want to rest after a long flight for a night, but I wouldn’t recommend staying here longer than that. The beach is perfect for beginner surfers: sandy bottom, small waves. Besides that, it’s mostly souvenir shops and old, not-so-great nightclubs.
Canggu
Canggu is fun if you want to party, but it’s very touristy, and traffic can be a nightmare. It’s where the trendy nightclubs, fancy beach clubs, and premium restaurants are. You’ll also see a lot of influencers around. There’s a small temple on the beach nearby (Tanah Lot), but honestly, there’s not much else to visit.
Ubud
Ubud is beautiful and peaceful. This is the spiritual and yoga hub of Bali. The town center is small but charming, with a few temples and palaces. The real magic is around Ubud, with rice fields, waterfalls, temples, and tiny traditional villages that make you fall in love with Bali’s nature and culture.
Jimbaran
Jimbaran doesn’t have much to do besides its long beach, but it’s perfect for seafood lovers. Imagine enjoying fresh fish and prawns while watching the sun set.
Uluwatu
South Bali, Uluwatu is for surfers. Stunning waves, cliffs, small beaches, and the famous Uluwatu Temple. Don’t miss Single Fin for a sunset drink, and also the GWK statue nearby.
Amed
Up in the northeast, Amed is one of the top spots for diving. The Liberty Shipwreck is a must-see underwater.
The Gili Islands
It’s not part of Bali, but it can be interesting to include it in your trip. The Gilis are tiny and beautiful islands, perfect for relaxing and a bit of diving to see turtles. I recommend Gili Trawangan, the biggest one, for a bit more variety in restaurants and activities. Tip: take a boat early in the morning and don’t choose a too-small boat, the ride can get rough and it’s long.
The Nusa Islands
To the east of Bali, Nusa Lembongan is a small but gorgeous island, closer than the Gilis. Nusa Penida, right next to it, is bigger and home to Kelingking Beach, a famous Instagram spot. Roads on Nusa Penida aren’t great, so even though it’s small, getting around can take time.
Bonus Spots
- Mount Batur: climb early for sunrise.
- Lovina Beach (North): dolphin watching.
- Sidemen (East of Ubud): one of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve seen in Bali.
- Jatiluwih: the most stunning rice terraces in Bali.
- Munduk: mountains and lakes.
Accommodation
Bali has tons of options. Cute budget hotels, luxurious villas (still affordable compared to Europe). It’s really a place to treat yourself.
Getting Around
Renting a scooter is my favorite way to get around. It’s cheap, flexible, and gives you full freedom. Driving in Bali is different from Europe, but if you’re careful and don’t go too fast, it’s fine.
If you have big luggage, the easiest option is hiring drivers between destinations, your hotel can arrange it, and renting a scooter locally. If you don’t ride scooters, just rely on drivers or use Grab, the local version of Uber, which works perfectly.
Food
I’ll probably write another post just about food, but overall, Indonesian cuisine is amazing. In tourist areas, you’ll also find plenty of Western options. Don’t worry about ice, it’s safe.
Bali belly can happen, but it’s pretty rare.
Bali is one of those places that keeps calling you back. Whether it’s surfing, partying, exploring temples, or just relaxing with a fresh coconut by the beach, there’s a little bit of everything.
I hope this guide helps you plan your trip and maybe fall in love with Bali like I did.
I’m a freelance interactive developer from Paris. You can find more information about me on my portfolio, follow me on Twitter or subscribe to the newsletter to never miss the latest posts.