Bali’s most popular and peaceful beaches
Bali’s coastline has something to delight every type of beach lover. In the south, the upscale area of Nusa Dua offers calm, shallow waters and serene beaches, making it ideal for families with children. By contrast, places like Kuta and Seminyak are ideal for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Here, you can surf, swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a variety of water sports all day. Kuta Beach is one of Bali’s most famous stretches of sand, popular among surfers for its strong waves and among young travelers for its vibrant nightlife. Just to the north is Seminyak Beach, another well-known spot, recognized for its stylish venues and breathtaking sunsets that color the sky in shades of orange.
Of course, not all of Bali’s beaches are crowded or touristy. Scattered around the island are hidden coves and lesser-known shores just waiting to be explored. One such spot is Nyang Nyang Beach, a secluded paradise on the southern tip of the Bukit Peninsula in Uluwatu. There are no facilities here, and reaching it involves a steep descent down a cliffside trail—but the reward is a stretch of pristine white sand and deep-blue waves that feel almost like your own private beach.
Likewise, Green Bowl Beach is another secluded cove, reached by descending hundreds of steps watched over by monkeys. Known for its limestone caves, moss-covered rocks surround this tranquil beach, with only the ocean’s sounds present, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling or quiet meditation. For diving enthusiasts, Amed Beach on Bali’s northeast coast is a must-visit. Best from May to November, it is famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
Perhaps the most photographed of all is Kelingking Beach on nearby Nusa Penida Island, which can be reached by boat from the mainland. Nestled between cliffs, this small stretch of sand attracts visitors with its dramatic T-Rex-shaped rock formation. And finally, there’s Padang Padang Beach, one of Bali’s cinematic gems, featured in the 2010 film Eat, Pray, Love starring Julia Roberts.
Bali’s exotic and graceful cultural heritage
One of the things that makes Bali so special is its rich cultural heritage and lively traditions. Hindu beliefs strongly influence daily life on the island. When you arrive, you’ll notice small, decorative offering baskets everywhere—placed outside homes and shops in the morning, filled with flowers and incense as part of a ritual of gratitude to the gods. In Bali, it seems there is a festival, temple ceremony, or colorful procession taking place almost every day. Some rituals are especially striking for visitors, such as the “tooth-filing” ceremony that marks important transitions, or the elaborate cremations that honor ancestral spirits. Together, they provide a fascinating glimpse into the local culture.
Across the island, thousands of Hindu temples, known as “Pura,” can be found, each with its own unique atmosphere. One of the most famous is Uluwatu Temple, dramatically perched on a cliff edge, known for its sweeping ocean views and the mesmerizing “Kecak Fire Dance” performances at sunset. Besakih Temple, the largest on the island, sits on the slopes of a mountain and is a truly majestic sight. When visiting temples, remember to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and legs. Sarongs are often provided at the entrance, and wearing one is a small yet meaningful way to show respect for local traditions.
When speaking of Bali’s exotic elegance, dance cannot be left out. For the Balinese, dance is more than just entertainment—it is a sacred ritual, woven into nearly every temple festival. Among the various forms, Legong dance stands out for its grace: young women perform delicate hand movements and expressive eye gestures in a refined art that dates back to royal palaces. Today, you can watch it in places like Ubud, where it is performed for visitors.
Another iconic tradition is the Barong dance, a dramatic performance that tells the story of the eternal battle between good, symbolized by a lion-like creature, and evil, represented by a witch. But perhaps the most famous of all is the Kecak dance. Dozens of men sit in a circle, chanting rhythmic sounds that create a mesmerizing backdrop for a scene from the Ramayana epic. Seen at sunset in Uluwatu Temple, the Kecak performance is often described as spellbinding and is highly recommended for travelers.
Spending an evening watching Legong dance at a palace in Ubud or experiencing the Kecak show in Uluwatu will add unforgettable moments to your Bali trip and even make for some eye-catching Instagram stories.
Bali’s local cuisine and must-try flavors
Bali’s cuisine is a colorful feast where Indonesian flavors blend with island-specific tastes. Thanks to the tropical climate, fresh vegetables, fruits, seafood, and spices are abundant. Rice serves as the basis of every meal, and the terraced rice fields are as much a part of Bali’s landscape as its culture. Expect plenty of spices, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and coconut milk in Balinese dishes. Here are some local specialties you shouldn’t miss.
Fried rice and fried noodles
Considered Indonesia’s national dishes, Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Mie Goreng (fried noodles) are stir-fried with soy sauce and spices, then served with vegetables, egg, and your choice of chicken or shrimp. Affordable, filling, and available in nearly every restaurant, they’re a go-to option for a satisfying lunch.
Sate
In Bali, skewered meats grilled over charcoal are called sate. Made from chicken, beef, or seafood, these tender skewers are usually served with a rich peanut sauce. While you can find them sold as street food (just watch out for hygiene), upscale restaurants also serve gourmet versions. If you’re not familiar with peanut sauce, it might seem unusual at first, but the combination is often delicious.
Gado Gado
A favorite among vegetarian visitors, Gado Gado is a salad made of assorted boiled vegetables topped with peanut sauce. Typically, boiled eggs and crispy crackers called krupuk are added on top. Light, yet full of flavor, this dish can be found everywhere, from street markets to hotel buffets. As a fun fact, the name comes from the word menggado, meaning “to eat something without rice.”
Bali is abundant with tropical fruits that are plentiful and affordable. Pineapple, mango, papaya, dragon fruit— and of course fresh coconuts— are everywhere. Be sure to try kelapa muda, a sweet coconut drink, especially when chilled and served on the beach to refresh.
Water sports and outdoor adventures in Bali
Bali is, of course, about more than just lounging on the beach. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or experiences that connect you more with nature, the island won’t let you down. When it comes to water sports, Bali is like a huge playground, offering something for everyone—whether you’re a beginner or already experienced. Surfing is probably the activity most closely associated with Bali. Kuta Beach is a popular spot for newcomers, offering lively crowds and beginner-friendly waves that make it a fun place to take lessons. For experienced surfers, areas like Uluwatu, Canggu, and Padang Padang offer world-class waves. If you prefer harnessing the wind, beaches suitable for kite surfing and windsurfing are also available. Meanwhile, the Tanjung Benoa Peninsula is renowned as the center for motorized water sports, including jet-skiing and banana boat rides.
Diving and snorkeling are another highlight you should definitely consider on a Bali holiday. The coral reefs surrounding the island host a diverse array of marine life. In Amed and Tulamben, divers can explore unforgettable sites such as the USS Liberty, a World War II shipwreck. Here, you might find yourself swimming alongside giant sea turtles and weaving through vibrant coral gardens. For snorkeling, the nearby islands of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and Menjangan are ideal, with crystal-clear waters and fish-rich reefs. Alternatively, for a more unique experience, consider a “Sea Walker” tour, which involves an underwater walk using a special helmet that enables you to explore the ocean floor without the need for scuba gear.
The adventure doesn’t end when you step off the beach. Near Ubud, the Ayung River is ideal for rafting, offering an exciting route surrounded by lush jungle scenery and small waterfalls. If you want variety, you can explore Bali’s natural beauty through activities like ATV safaris, ziplines, or cycling tours, each providing a different view of the island. For nature lovers, trekking options are plentiful. If the idea of watching the sunrise from a volcanic summit excites you, consider joining a guided climb up Mount Batur. Starting around midnight, the 2–3 hour hike takes you to the top just in time to watch the sun rise over the horizon, with steam rising from the active volcano beneath your feet—an experience you’ll likely never forget. For easier walks, the Campuhan Ridge Walk or the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are perfect. These trails take you through lush, green rice fields where you can take photos and catch a glimpse of village life.
Spiritual healing experience in Bali
Bali is also renowned as a center for wellness and spiritual renewal. Especially after the book and film Eat, Pray, Love, many travelers began coming to the island not only for its beaches but also for an inner journey. This side of Bali offers countless opportunities to nourish both body and soul.
At the heart of it all is Ubud. Surrounded by rainforests and rice fields, Ubud feels like a peaceful oasis filled with yoga studios, meditation centers, and spas. People from around the world gather here to practice yoga, join breathwork retreats, or experience silent meditation sessions. You can simply drop in for a single class or fully immerse yourself in a one- to two-week yoga and detox program.
Beyond yoga, spa and massage treatments are an essential part of a Bali vacation. The island’s famous Balinese massage, now enjoyed worldwide, uses aromatic oils and emphasizes rhythmic, deep techniques that focus on the body’s energy points. From the coast to the hills of Ubud, massage salons and spa centers are everywhere, providing the perfect way to relax.
Bali offers just about everything you could want from an exotic summer escape. This small island appeals to nearly everyone with the wide range of experiences it has to offer. Keep in mind that summer is also the dry season in Bali, making it the perfect time to visit. The weather is usually sunny and warm, but it’s important to keep in mind that in a tropical climate, sudden showers can happen unexpectedly—so come prepared. As you plan your trip, don’t forget to check out our Bali travel guide.
If you’re ready to explore Bali, book your flight and embark on this one-of-a-kind journey for yourself. Wishing you a wonderful holiday—or as the locals say, Selamat liburan!
