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The Top Things to Do in Bali
Written by Sarah Julian
From tranquil temple tours in the east and energetic beach clubs in Seminyak, to cooking classes in Nusa Dua – here are the top experiences to add to your Bali itinerary.
While there are bountiful beaches and five-star resorts to choose from in Bali, delve deeper into the island’s offerings and you’ll uncover spiritual moments, thrilling adventures and ultimate indulgence.
Whether you’re into raw wilderness, wildlife or wining and dining, Bali’s variety of experiences caters to all tastes and ages. From gravity-defying infinity pools at impressive Uluwatu beach clubs to thrill-seeking water activities in Nusa Dua, here are the top things to do on the Island of the Gods.
Top Things to Do in East Bali
Rafting adventure on the Telaga Waja River
Twists, turns and thrilling rapids – there’s no rush quite like an exhilarating rafting adventure. And while you whip around 18 kilometres of thrilling waterways, take in the lush tropical landscape (if you manage to catch your breath in between the excitement).
Full-day Mother Temple, village and Gianyar Market tour
Make the pilgrimage up the slopes of Mount Agung to visit the Island of the God’s biggest (and holiest) temple – Pura Besakih, Bali’s revered Mother Temple. Plus, with a tour of the village, Penglipuran, and Gianyar market, you’ll get an authentic taste of local life in Bali.
Top things to do in Nusa Penida Bay
Snorkelling in Nusa Penida Bay
Home to the limestone formation seemingly shaped like a T-rex at Kelingking Beach, this hidden gem is a water-lover’s paradise. Visit four beaches – Manta Bay, Gamat Bay, Wall Bay and GT Point – and swim alongside brightly coloured fish, look out for manta rays or simply relax on the sugar white sands.
Top things to do in Canggu
Chill the day away at Atlas Beach Fest
While away the afternoon – or the whole day – at Atlas Beach Fest, the biggest beach club in Bali. This sprawling playground covers 2.9 hectares of coastal real estate and comes brimming with oceanfront pools, cabanas and day beds, restaurants, bars and more. Half-day and full-day passes are available in addition to general admission tickets.
Top things to do in Ubud
Electric bike tour to Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Get off the beaten path (literally) and enjoy a leisurely roll through peaceful shades of undulating green hills en route to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tegalalang Rice Terrace. While journeying on this road less travelled, you’ll also wind through a charming Balinese village and savour a lunch in Ubud.
Quad-biking adventure in the wild
Awaken your inner adventurer with a thrilling ATV ride through Ubud’s mesmerising wilderness. With five kilometres of nature trail to rev through, see if the mantra ‘wetter is better’ holds true as you roll over mud paths.
Bali Bird Park, Ubud market and monkey forest tour
Meet Bali’s feathered and furry citizens on a tour of Bali Bird Park, Ubud Markets and Monkey Forest. Witness native birds from the Indonesian archipelago, browse traditional art at Ubud Market, then come face-to-face with playful macaques in the Monkey Forest.
Top things to do in Seminyak
Indulge at Café Del Mar
Born in Ibiza, Café Del Mar finds its Bali home overlooking the oceanfront in Canggu – and you’re invited to join the daytime merriment with a three-course dining experience for two. Once you’ve indulged in Mediterranean and Asian fare, dance into the night as the famous Canggu sunset dips below the horizon.
Savour an Asian banquet Jackson Lily’s
Jackson Lily’s ‘Asian Tour’ seeks to transport your tastebuds through the region through its selection of pan-Asian offerings, from creamy seafood laksa and crackling pork belly to sweet and sour chicken and dragon fruit sorbet.
Top things to do in Nusa Dua
Feast on the iconic buffet at Mulia Resort
Mulia Resort’s buffet is famous for good reason. Enjoy a feast at The Cafe with live-cooking flair, offering an array of international delights from Korean to European cuisine – and don’t forget about indulging your sweet tooth at the heavenly dessert corner.
Try watersports in Tanjung Beach
Simply strap in, power up and you’re off – enjoy the ultimate thrill of flyboarding and more on the glistening shores of Tanjung Beach. Keep the high-octane energy up with an inflatable doughnut boat ride and a sea walker experience under the waves.
Spice up your day with a cooking class
Sharpen your kitchen skills and get acquainted with Balinese culture through a half-day cooking class at Kayumanis Nusa Dua. You’ll select fresh ingredients from the market, learn all about creating delicious dishes, and of course, tuck into the fruits of your hard work.
Top things to do in Uluwatu
Spend a day at Tropical Temptation Beach Club
Featuring laidback yet elegant, Tulum-inspired design, this dayclub promises a blissful escape in the shadow of Uluwatu’s cliffs, complete with VIP cabanas, lagoon day beds and an infinity pool. With Melasti Beach at your feet, it’s a great place to live la vida loca with five to 10 of your favourite people.
Afternoon tea at oneeighty Beach Club at The Edge
Afternoon tea and a four-hour day pass to oneeighty day club, built atop the towering cliffs of Uluwatu, is a breathtakingly beautiful way to while away an afternoon. The jewel in the crown is the breathtaking glass bottom pool that extends six metres over the emerald covered cliff edge – it’s something straight out of an Instagram feed.
Top things to do in Kuta
Find thrills at Trans Studio Bali Indoor Theme Park
Both the young and young at heart can run wild and free with admission to Trans Studio Bali Indoor Theme Park, complete with five zones to explore, from zombie simulations and go-karts to a Ferris wheel and entertaining live shows.
Get crafty at a jewellery class
Turn five grams of silver into a wearable piece under the watchful eye of a skilled silversmith, where you’ll learn the art of crafting jewellery in a three-hour session. Learn to shape, decorate and finish your design before taking it home (or wearing it out).
Looking for more inspiration? Check out Bali’s Best Restaurants for 2024.
Feature image: FINNS Bali, Canggu, Bali. Source: Supplied.
