I love surrounding myself with people and places that hold a deep sense of serenity, it is quite contagious. Perhaps this is the reason that I love Bali so much, it just radiates peace!
Beautiful Bali awaits!
Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the international hub for all Bali flights. There are many ways to travel to your destination city from the airport. Local bus, private transfer and taxi are the most popular and convenient. You can also check with your hotel for transportation options. When traveling around the island, the tourist shuttle, Bemo minibus or taxi are available. If you plan to travel overseas to the Gili Islands, the public ferry or domestic flight are your best options.
There is so much to see and do in Bali. Shopping for handmade crafts, exploring the land and partaking in exciting beach activities like parasailing and scuba diving on some of the most beautiful beaches only scratch the surface of what this magical place has to offer. Here are my top adventures to embark on when I am in Bali:
Temples – Built according to Balinese architectural rules and ritual, the nearly 20,000 temples, or puras, of Bali stand in honour of local spirits or deities of India and hold a dignified energy. Although all of them are stunning, here are some great ones to visit:
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan on Lake Bratan
- Pura Tirta Empul – Known for its healing holy spring water and bathing structure, this water temple is commonly visited by Balinese Hindus for purification rituals.
- Pura Luhur Lempuyang – Located atop 1700 steps on the sacred Mount Lempuyang Luhur this is one of Bali’s nine protection temples and one of the six holiest places of worship in Bali.
- Pura Tanah Lot – Off the Southwest shore, this temple sits on a large rock formation. The iconic structure is worth a visit.
Here’s a Pro-Tip: Keep an eye out for Canang Sari, gratitude offerings made by Balinese Hindus that are placed throughout the island. They often look like small altars and can be easily missed if not careful.
Walks and Hikes – With dense jungles, aesthetic rice fields and epic sun rises and sunsets, exploring natural features is a great way to experience the beauty of the island. Here are some recommendations:
With views like this I could walk for days!
- Campuhan Ridge Walk – One of my favourites for sunrise or sunset, this mellow 9km (6mi) walk in Ubud displays mesmerising views of lush jungles and rice fields.
- Mount Batur Hike – Although this spectacular hike is not exceptionally difficult, it requires a guide due to the fact that the volcano is still active!
- Sekumpul Waterfall Hike – This glorious waterfall is actually made up of seven different waterfalls creating an enchanting atmosphere. The hike is fairly onerous, although you can always opt to hire a guide.
Here’s a Pro-Tip: most natural attractions cost a small fee to enter, so be sure to carry some cash with you if you plan to visit these areas, or in case of a spontaneous adventure!
Yoga – Bali is a spiritual and mindful environment making it a wonderful place to try a yoga class. Whether you have never taken a class before or you have been practising for years, Bali is a lovely place to experience this enriching tradition. Here are some of my favourite studios on the island:
- Morning Light Studio – Mats are provided, classes are drop-in, and all levels are welcome – not the mention the views in Uluwatu are inspiring. Perfect for a travelling yogi or yogini!
- The Yoga Barn – This studio in Ubud has a lovely community feel and offers a variety of classes per week. You can try Ayurvedic food and treatments as well as a plethora of alternative healing techniques.
- Seminyak Yoga Shala – Located in central Seminyak, this peaceful studio is a great place to find some quiet in your day.
- Cuca Restaurant – locally sourced ingredients and worldly flavours in a casual yet quality environment.
- Locavore – A modern and cozy space to enjoy European dishes uniquely recreated with seasonal ingredients.
- Echo Beach Club – This beachside seafood barbecue is a favourite by both locals and tourists. Indoor or outdoor seating all day long.
When it comes to food, my eyes are as big as coconuts!
The magic of Bali does not stop when the sun sets. In fact, sunset is just the beginning of a whole new side of the island. The nightlife in Bali is incredibly vibrant with plenty of pubs and clubs to dance the night away; especially in Kuta, Legian and Seminyak. Here are some of my top spots to enjoy the sunset and everything that happens afterwards:
Sun down, Hands up!
- Potato Head Beach Club – Designed by famous architect Andra Matin, this is a fabulous place to watch the sunset, enjoy a cocktail and great music.
- La Plancha – Sand between your toes, cold drink in hand and colourful bohemian umbrellas and beanbags to lounge in. That is the vibe of this free-spirited establishment!
- Single Fin – Looking over the edges of dramatic cliffs, this relaxed surf bar offers great live music, drinks and views. Stop buy on Sundays for their legendary sessions.
Here are some great hotels to enhance your stay in paradise:
- Bambu Indah – An eco-resort near Ubud with a traditional feel, sweeping views and lush surroundings. The houses are thoughtfully restored tribal houses.
- Alila Manggis – A tranquil stay with lovely restaurant, yoga pavilion and spa
- Poppies – Located in the lively Kuta, these villas sit amongst a peaceful garden and offer a relaxing place to retreat after a long day.
To me, Bali is a place that really emphasises the importance of connection – especially between the Earth, ourselves and each other.
Love,
Isabella
I really like your blog formats. So clean. And you sell a place so well. Bali here I come.
Thank you for your kind comment, John! I appreciate your thoughts on my blog formatting. It is great to hear your feedback. Enjoy Bali 😉
Love,
Isabella and Katie
Great intro to Bali! I loved my stay there. We hiked up Mt Batur for the sunrise and then it was shrouded in clouds.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Lannie! Your view sounds absolutely stunning. Sunrises are my favourite 🙂
Love,
Isabella and Katie
What a thorough guide to Bali! I have to say I went to Bali several years ago but never explored it half as well. Maybe I’ll just have to go back 😉
Thank you, Hannah! There are so many beautiful places to explore in Bali, I am excited for you to return! 🙂
Love,
Isabella and Katie
#Bali and more importantly, #GiliIslands are my favourite after my last trip in 2020… can’t wait to revisit
Thank you for reading us and leaving us a comment. Bali is always the perfect paradise to revisit…and revisit.
Best regards,
Isabella
Love the pro tips. Also the photos are beautiful.
Thanks for leaving us a comment, and we love that you find useful our pro tips. And yes, the photos are beautiful, though nothing compared to being there.
Bets wishes,
Isabella
I love Bali!! Such an amazing place and your first paragraph really captured the overall feeling that you get from being there!
Thank you for leaving us a comment. Bali is the perfect paradise, peaceful, sunny, lovely people, the best place to relax and enjoy!
Greetings,
Isabella
I haven’t been to Bail (yet) and it always looks so amazing! This post makes me really want to visit soon!
We appreciate your comment, and also wish you can travel there soon, and have the most peaceful and relaxing time.
Love,
Isabella
I completely agree with you that Bali is a place of deep connection to the Earth. I’m writing up a Bali post specific to healing locations, and I’ll definitely link to your post. Thank you for this!
You’re welcome, and come visit us again!
Love,
Isabella