The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide

If you’re reading this, you’re probably already dreaming of sandy beaches, lush jungles, and breathtaking sunsets—well, you’re in for a treat! Bali is one of those magical places that stays with you long after you’ve left. The mere mention of Bali evokes images of pristine beaches, vibrant cultural experiences, and a sense of tranquility that is unmatched. Shayne and I have spent countless days exploring the hidden gems and popular attractions of this beautiful island, immersing ourselves in the rich Balinese culture and forging unforgettable memories.

From the moment you set foot on Bali’s soil, you are greeted with a sense of warmth and hospitality that is characteristic of the Balinese people. The island’s diverse landscapes offer a plethora of activities for every type of traveler, whether you seek adventure in the form of surfing on the famous waves of Uluwatu or prefer to unwind with a yoga retreat in Ubud’s serene surroundings. Bali truly has something for everyone!

Why Bali Should Be on Your Bucket List Bali Travel

Bali is a paradise that seems almost too good to be true. From the iconic rice terraces of Ubud to the vibrant nightlife of Seminyak, and the pristine beaches of Nusa Dua, Bali has something for everyone. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, culture and luxury. Plus, the locals are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet, making your experience even more memorable.

Best Time to Visit Bali

The first thing to know when planning your Bali adventure is the best time to visit. Bali has two main seasons: the dry season (April to October) and the wet season (November to March). While the dry season is the most popular time to visit due to the sunny weather, the wet season also has its perks—think fewer crowds and lush, green landscapes. We’ve been in both seasons, and let me tell you, Bali is beautiful year-round. Just pack a light rain jacket if you’re visiting during the wet season!

Getting to Bali

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar being the main gateway for flying into Bali. Most major airlines offer flights to Bali from around the world. If you’re flying in from the US or Europe, you’ll likely have a layover in a major city like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Jakarta as there are no direct flights (yet!). 24 hours of total travel time is a lot, but trust us when we tell you it is well worth it.

If you’re looking for the best deal on flights, sign up for Jet Set Club’s cheap flight alert service. For just $59 a year, you’ll receive daily flight deals, including the occasional deal to Bali. We’ve seen deals as low as $750 roundtrip from LAX. You can check out Jet Set Club here.

Visa Information and Customs

Before anything else, make sure that your passport remains valid for at least six months after your planned visit to Bali.

Before you land, make sure you’re up to date with the visa requirements. Most travelers can enter Bali with a visa on arrival (VOA), which is valid for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days. Consider getting an e-visa here before you arrive. Trust me, it saves you time at the airport! Apply for your e-visa in advance, at least a few weeks before your trip to allow for processing time.

Prior to your journey, but no more than 3 days before your departure, you are required to fill out an online customs declaration form, which is available here. This service is free of charge, and once approved, you will be provided with a QR code to present to airport personnel. You have the option to either save it on your mobile device or print it out.

Finally, all foreign tourists visiting Bali must pay a one-time fee of approximately $10 USD. This regulation was introduced in 2024 to contribute to the preservation and safeguarding of Bali’s cultural and natural heritage. For further information and to make the payment, click here.

Essential Apps and Connectivity

Staying connected in Bali is easy, especially if you grab an e-SIM card. This is the e-SIM card provider we use all over the world and highly recommend. Be sure to purchase and set-up before leaving home. It’s a lifesaver for navigating, booking rides, and keeping in touch with loved ones back home. Check out our detailed post about e-SIM cards here.

Also, download a few essential apps like Grab (for rides), GoJek (for food delivery and more), Google Maps and Google translate. We use these all the time!

Where to Stay in Bali

Bali has a plethora of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxurious resorts. Depending on what you’re looking for, here are some of our favorite spots:

• Ubud: For those looking for a cultural experience surrounded by rice paddies and temples. We loved our stay at the Hanging Gardens of Bali—it’s pure jungle luxury.
• Seminyak: Perfect if you’re into beach clubs, shopping, and dining. The W Bali in Seminyak is a fantastic choice for a mix of modern luxury and Bali vibes.
• Canggu: A hipster’s paradise with cool cafes, surfing, and yoga retreats. Try the trendy COMO Uma Canggu for an upscale stay with an ocean view.
• Nusa Dua: Ideal for families and honeymooners seeking a peaceful beach retreat. The St. Regis Bali Resort is our top pick for sheer opulence.
• Uluwatu: For the surfers and sunset chasers. We had an unforgettable stay at Alila Villas Uluwatu—talk about a clifftop dream!
• Jimbaran Bay: If you’re looking for a blend of tranquility and luxury, the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay is an absolute gem. This resort offers stunning ocean views, private villas, and world-class service. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy Bali’s natural beauty in style.

We love Booking.com for all of our hotel bookings. You can search for your Bali hotel here:

What to Do in Bali

There’s no shortage of things to do in Bali, but here are some of our absolute must-dos:

1. Explore the Rice Terraces in Ubud: The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are iconic, and the perfect place for a peaceful walk or a fun photo session on the famous Bali Swing.
2. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Also in Ubud, this is a must-see. Just be sure to secure your belongings—those monkeys are sneaky!
3. Surfing in Canggu: Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, Canggu’s beaches are perfect for catching some waves.
4. Sunset at Uluwatu Temple: This clifftop temple offers some of the most stunning sunsets we’ve ever seen. Don’t miss the Kecak dance performance that takes place as the sun goes down.
5. Snorkeling and Diving in Nusa Penida: Take a day trip to this nearby island for incredible underwater experiences. We swam with manta rays, dolphins and loads of colorful fish!
6. Relax at a Beach Club: Seminyak is home to some of the coolest beach clubs in the world. Potato Head Beach Club and Ku De Ta are our favorites.
7. Experience a Balinese Spa: Treat yourself to a traditional Balinese massage or a luxurious spa day. Trust me, it’s worth it.
8. Hike Mt. Batur at Sunrise : Challenge yourself with a pre-dawn trek up Mount Batur  for breathtaking sunrise views overlooking the island and its surrounding volcanoes.
9. Join a Cooking Class: Learn to prepare authentic Indonesian dishes using fresh local ingredients under the guidance of experienced chefs.
10. Chase Waterfalls : Discover the island’s hidden gems by embarking on a waterfall-hopping adventure to iconic cascades like Tegenungan and Sekumpul.

Where to Eat in Bali

Food in Bali is a delight for the senses. From local warungs (small family-owned restaurants) to world-class fine dining, there’s something for every palate. Here are some spots we can’t get enough of:

• Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka (Ubud): Famous for its traditional Balinese roast pork.
• Locavore (Ubud): A must for foodies—this restaurant is all about farm-to-table dining.
• Nalu Bowls (Seminyak): Start your day with a delicious smoothie bowl.
• Sisterfields (Seminyak): A trendy café that’s perfect for brunch.
• Motel Mexicola (Seminyak): A lively spot for Mexican food and fun vibes.
• The Lawn (Canggu): Great for sunset drinks and laid-back beach vibes.

Health and Safety Tips

Bali is generally a safe place to travel, but it’s always good to be prepared. Here are a few tips:

• Drink Bottled Water: Avoid drinking tap water to prevent any stomach issues.
• Travel Insurance: Definitely a must. We always make sure we’re covered in case of any unexpected events with Safety Wing Insurance. We have a detailed blog post about our own experience using our travel insurance in Bali here.
• Vaccinations and Probiotics: Check with your doctor for recommended vaccinations before traveling. We also start taking a daily probiotic two weeks before our trip to help with any tummy troubles.

Getting Around Bali

Traffic in Bali is no joke. Everything looks close, but even the shortest distance can take so much longer than you imagined. On our first trip to Bali we were shocked that a 5 mile drive took over 30 minutes. Here are a few ways to get around:

• Scooters: The most popular way to explore the island. Just make sure you’re comfortable riding one and always wear a helmet. We have been able to rent a scooter for less than $100 USD a month, including insurance. Make sure you bring your International Driver’s Permit. Read all about that on our blog here.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Grab is the go-to app for booking rides. It’s affordable and convenient. It’s just like Uber, but you are able to book a ride on a scooter or a car. A 30 minute car ride is typically less than $5 USD, and a 15 minute scooter ride is typically less than $2 USD.
• Private Drivers: If you’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing, hiring a private driver for the day is a great option. We’ve done this a few times, and it’s both comfortable and affordable.

Final Thoughts

Bali is a destination that truly has it all—adventure, culture, relaxation, and beauty. Whether you’re there for a quick getaway or an extended stay, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip. Shayne and I are already planning our next visit because, well, you can never get enough of Bali. If you have any questions or need more tips, message us on Instagram or drop them in the comments below.