Top 15 Things to Do in Bali – What to Know and What to Expect
Our pick of the top things to do in Bali
If you’re planning a trip to Bali and need help building your itinerary – you’ve come to the right place. At Club Med, we can help you discover all that this wondrous destination has to offer, with our list of the top 15 things do to in Bali.
Without further ado, let’s jump into our top recommendations.
Immersive yourself in Balinese culture
#1 Nusa Penida
Starting our list of the top things to do in Bali, we have Nusa Penida. Nusa Penida is a gorgeous island that lies only 25 kilometres from Bali, and it’s one of the top destinations in Indonesia. It has become incredibly popular due to its stunning beaches and breathtaking cliff views.
Once there, you can visit the iconic Kelingking beach, which is a “T-Rex” shaped rock, with perfect turquoise water splashing around it. You can also check out the Paluang Cliff viewpoint, offering gorgeous views with fewer crowds.
If you want to explore the incredible scenery of Nusa Penida, book your excursion at Club Med. With arranged transportation and tours, we can take you to see all the stunning sights of the island.
#2 Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one of the most important landmarks in Bali and is famed for its unique offshore setting and sunset backdrops. It is an ancient Hindu shrine, perched on top of an outcrop and is one of Bali’s not-to-be-missed icons.
The Tanah Lot is located in the Beraban village of the Tanaban regency and is believed to date back to the 16th century. When you visit, keep in mind that the main temple grounds are only for praying pilgrims and are closed off to visitors.
That said, if you want to take in the incredible surroundings and panoramic views, you can book your excursion at Club Med Bali.
#3 Monkey Forest in Ubud
Continuing our list of the top things to do in Bali, we have Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, also known as the Ubud Monkey Forest. Located at Padangtegal Ubud, Bali, it’s home to about 1260 Balinese long-tailed macaque monkeys.
The monkeys are divided into 10 groups based on where they’re located and their ages. The Monkey Forest is a famous tourist attraction, pulling in around 10,000–15,000 tourists each month.
#4 Kecak Fire Dance
As one of the most iconic art performances in Bali, the Kecak Fire Dance is truly not something to be missed. It takes place at a clifftop amphitheatre beside Uluwatu Temple, and the tiered concrete seating surrounds the sunken centrepiece stage.
The sunset dance show features fire, human vocals, and impressive views of the Indian Ocean.
#5 Surfing in Bali
Bali is known for its jungled volcanic mountain ranges, coral reefs, stunning beaches, and of course, surfing. It provides the ultimate surfing adventure, with amazing waves abound. Even though surfing in Bali attracts many experienced surfers, it’s also beginner-friendly. Surfing conditions are ideal from May to September, during the dry season.
Explore the Island of the Gods
#6 Culinary Canggu
Canggu is a foodie’s paradise and features a wide variety of dishes, including authentic Indonesian food, as well as international flavours. It’s also where the best coffee and cakes are outside of your Club Med Bali resort. At Canggu, you’ll find many beachside cafes serving delicious treats.
#7 Tegalalang Rice Terrace
You will find the Tegalalang Rice Terrace in the greenest part of Bali, Ubud. With lush forests, ridge walks, and rice terraces, it is one of the most popular green attractions in Bali.
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a series of beautifully arranged paddies, which follows the traditional Balinese irrigation system called subak.
#8 Sekumpul Waterfalls
Locally known as Air Terjun Sekumpul, the Waterfalls are arguably Bali’s most spectacular cascades. The collection of 7 hidden waterfalls is nestled in the tranquillity of a valley, and surrounded by lush jungle.
#9 Blue Lagoon Snorkelling
If you love snorkelling and exploring what’s underneath the surface, Bali is definitely the place to be. As one of the top things to do in Bali, snorkelling can be done in many places across the entire province. At the Tenung Jepun beach, you can see marine dwellers like Napolean wrasse, cuttlefish, octopus, and more.
#10 Gili Air
If you’re up for island hopping, there’s no better place to be or thing to do in Bali than visiting Gili Air, Lombok. The tiny island stuns visitors with its white sand, turquoise water, and underwater life. If you decide to visit Gili Air, you’ll be able to take part in cooking classes, snorkelling, biking around, and so many other activities.
Discover pristine beaches and reach the highest peaks
#11 Nyang Nyang Beach
Nyang Nyang Beach is one of the cleanest, most beautiful and serene beaches in all of Bali. Located on the Bukit Peninsula in Uluwatu, South Bali, in the morning it boasts ideal weather and very few tourists. Thanks to its east-facing location, Nyang Nyang Beach is the ultimate spot for observing sunrise.
#12 Gunung Kawi Temple
The Valley of the Balinese Kings or Gunung Kawi Temple is an 11th-century temple and funerary complex in Tampaksiring. Spread across the Pakerisan River, it comprises 10 rock-cut candi or shrines, that are carved into sheltered niches, seven metres tall. The Temple is one of three UNESCO world heritage sites in Ubud and not something to miss.
#13 Sukawati Art Market
At the Sukawati Art Market, you’ll find distinctively authentic Balinese art items, including paintings, sculptures, handicrafts, and other traditional, handmade products. There, you’ll find that haggling is common practice and if you see something you like, go for it. The two-story market will give you insight into the Bali culture and hustle and bustle of the province.
#14 Mount Batur
Mount Batur is an active volcano located at the centre of two calderas, northwest of Mount Agung in Bali. Hiking Mount Batur is potentially one of the coolest things to do in Bali, but it will not be an easy feat. The 700-metre elevation gain can get quite steep in some parts, but it’s doable for most. If you want to hike up Mount Batur, make sure to go during the dry season and try going early in the day, so you can catch the sunrise there.
#15 Pura Luhur Lempuyang
One of Bali’s oldest and most highly regarded temples, Lempuyang Temple is believed to predate the majority of Hindu temples on the island. What’s more, it’s one of the six holiest places of worship in Bali. Also known as the Gates of Heaven, the picturesque landscape invites visitors from all over the world.
Club Med Bali
Relax and recharge in Nusa Dua
Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens and a pristine white-sand beach, Club Med Bali is an all-inclusive resort that offers an unforgettable holiday experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. With its world-class amenities, and endless activities, Club Med Bali is the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Bali.