It's no secret that Bali is quite an exotic destination. With its temples invoking spiritual awakening to its rich marine life and magnificent corals, beach clubs for the party animals, it has something for everybody. With so much to do, here are 12 things you should definitely give a try when you’re in Bali:
1. Snorkeling and Scuba diving at Gili Islands
An archipelago of three tiny islands Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, the Gili islands are the perfect destination to experience marine life. Scuba or snorkeling, you won't be disappointed. Fun fact: you’re highly likely to spot a big sea turtle or two whilst you marvel at the multicolored coral and schools of fish.
2. Chase Waterfalls
With freshwater showers gushing down the cliff in the middle of a tropical forest, the Tegenungan waterfalls should surely make it to the top of your list. An isolated spot away from everything but the vibrance of nature is a must-visit. The Gitgit waterfall, mere 40 mins from the town of Lovina, is another heaven for photographers and water babies.
3. Seek blessings at the temples
Bali is known as ‘the island of gods’, so while you’re there you should definitely check out some of the ancient temples. Located at the southernmost tip of the island is the Uluwatu temple, a Hindu Balinese temple that apart from being a magical sunset point is a playground for notorious monkeys. Every evening along with the sunset you get to witness a traditional dance performance based on the Ramayana. Tanah Lot is another important temple located on top of a rock formation caressed by the sea. Popular sunset point for the tourists, Balinese people still come here to worship the sea gods
4. Beach Bathing at Nusa Penida
The island of Nusa Penida has a plethora of wowing beaches one must step foot on. Broken beach- adorned by an arched tunnel in the cliffs with a seawater pool at the bottom. Kelingking beach is another show-stopper. Imagine a cliff shaped like the back of a T-Rex!
It doesn’t stop here! If you’re a sucker for some sun and crystal clear water, as the name suggests Crystal Bay is your place to be, a beautiful beach famous for snorkeling and scuba diving.
5. Slay the Surfboard
Due to its proximity to Australia and very obviously conducive sea environments, Bali is the best place to learn surfing. With perfect beaches and awesome instructors head down to Kuta or Batu Bolong beach for a day lesson and try your hands at surfing.
6. Hike an active volcano
In for some adventure? Hike up 1700 meters at 2 AM and catch the sunrise from Mt. Batur volcano. You’ll reach the top of the volcano with a relatively easy 2-3 hours walk. The black sky turns blue, blue turns purple, purple turns pink and then you’re lost and awestruck at the sight of the tangerine sky. Treat yourself to a hot cup of cocoa prepared on volcanic steam if you are on an organized tour because this is an experience of a lifetime.
7. Marvel at the Monkey Forest
If there's one place you should definitely go to in Bali, it's the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud. Just pick a couple of bananas and you will automatically become every monkey’s best friend. Make sure you hand over the bananas when they start grabbing; otherwise, you’re in for a fight! Want to get up close and personal? Even if you don't like the monkeys, the park itself is a big rain forest and seems like something straight out of the “Legends of the lost temple’ TV show.
8. Enjoy a Balinese Massage
Let's just assume you didn't know this already, Balinese massage is famous all over the world. With the highest density of spas in the world, you’ll find one wherever you go. Sign yourself up for traditional massage therapy. The marvelous finger strokes and the sweet scent of frangipani oil will send you directly to heaven. Your body and mind will thank you for this.
9. Spend the day at a beach club
After you've soaked in spirituality, laze the day away in Bali's amazing beach clubs. Treat yourself to delish cocktails while you enjoy the ocean views from the edge of an infinity pool at the Finns beach club. Or hang in one of the coolest Fisher boats at the La Brisa club. If that doesn’t suit you, grab a meal with some locally sourced, traditionally produced food at Mrs. Sippy as you spend the day basking in sun, swimming, and vibing to the music.
10. Satiate your hunger with Nasi Goreng and Smoothie Bowls
Nasi Goreng, literally meaning “fried rice” is a mouth-watering Indonesian amalgamation of aromatic smokiness. Often served with shrimp paste, fish sauce, and scrambled eggs, it's a gift to the palette. And smoothie bowls, you’ll find amazing ones in Bali. A few places to check out are Nalu bowls and Sisterfields cafe. From carefully cut and crafted dragon fruits to the perfectly placed flower, your smoothie bowl will look nothing short of an iconic miniature landscape
11. Bali Swings
You’ve definitely seen those dreamy Bali swing pictures on the Internet if your head is not buried in the sand. The picturesque backdrop of overwater swings in Gili islands as the sun sets into the ocean turning the sky into million different shades of pink will surely set your Instagram on fire. If that doesn't sound promising enough, take a swing through the greenery in the rice fields of Tegalalang or get your photo clicked inside a human-sized bird's nest.
12. Party in Seminyak
Seminyak being the poshest of areas hosts quite some sophisticated resorts and party hubs.
Most of the chic boho cafes transform into major party clubs by the night. Catch some cocktails at Motel Mexicola, savor the Mexican food, and vibe to the music. La Favela is another bar with an exquisitely crafted ambiance from brilliant vintage designs to graffiti.
It's awe-inspiring in all ways so hang there for a drink or eleven and an epic night out with friends.
These were our top picks on what to do when you’re vacationing on the tropical island of Bali. If you'd like to check off this bucketlist, join us on our next Bali trip - its our bestseller!
