13 Best Things To Do In Bali In 2024

These 13 best things to do in Bali include the best historic landmarks in Indonesia as well as the natural beauty spots of the region. There is so much to see and do, so plan at least a week in Bali to see these top attractions.

Whether you’re traveling to Bali for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler and know Bali like the back of your hand, Bali never ceases to amaze.

With its huge array of activities and experiences, we guarantee that you’re bound to find new, exciting adventures to embark on – every single time. 

13 Best Things To Do In Bali In 2024

Beaches & Nature

Bali’s jungles, rice fields, and stunning beaches bring in tons of visitors every year; it really is one of the most beautiful islands in the world. The island is full of gorgeous nature spots and sandy shores, making them major attractions for travelers all over the world.

Chase Waterfalls

Trekking through Bali’s jungle interior to witness some stunning waterfalls is one of our favorite activities. 

The journey can be tough, but it’s worth it to see sights like Sekumpul – seven skinny waterfalls plunging off dramatic cliffs. 

Gitgit offers two falls with natural pools for swimming. At Tegenungan, you can actually walk behind the powerful cascade.

No matter where you’re from, traveling through Bali’s jungle to witness some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls is sure to satisfy your inner adventurer.

Go Hiking 

Are you not the sporty type? Don’t worry – Bali has hikes to suit all fitness levels. 

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a peaceful stroll through rice fields outside Ubud. For something longer, you can do a multi-day trek, spotting wildlife at West Bali National Park.

Want something more challenging? Trek to the summit of Mount Batur volcano for breathtaking sunrise views over the caldera lake. We recommend a moderate level of fitness for this trek. 

This trek can be challenging due to the steep incline, loose volcanic rocks, and the early morning start (usually around 3-4 am) needed to catch the sunrise at the summit.

All in all, Bali is a fantastic hiking destination; you can be sure to find routes to suit varying levels of fitness – just do some research to find the best option for you.

Relax on the Beach

Who wouldn’t want to spend some time relaxing at Bali’s beaches? After all, Bali is internationally renowned for its beautiful coastline.

Bali’s beautiful beaches, with their soft white or black volcanic sand, are perfect for chilling out. 

Melt the stress away by lounging in the sun at hotspots like Seminyak Beach. It’s a trendy area with beach clubs and oceanfront dining. 

For a more family-friendly setting, try the beautiful Nusa Dua where kids can enjoy splashing in the water. 

And if you’re a freelancer, why not join the hip digital nomad crowd at Canggu Beach? This beach is known for its great surf breaks and international atmosphere.  

Culture & Activities  

Still, it’s important to remember that Bali has so much more than just pretty beaches and landscapes. 

The island is also a cultural wonderland with amazing activities to experience. From spiritual sights to adventurous thrills, immersing yourself in Bali’s rich local culture and unique adventures is a must. 

Enjoy Traditional Activities

The artsy mountain town of Ubud is the perfect place to soak up Balinese culture. 

See a traditional Balinese dance show, browse craft markets for batik and woodcarvings, do yoga at a retreat, and hike through picture-perfect rice terraces.

With its ornate temples, colorful ceremonies, and artisan villages, Bali offers endless opportunities to experience the island’s fascinating heritage.

Grab your camera and snap pictures at every stop – you’ll thank yourself later.

Visit the Temples  

With its rich cultural heritage, Bali offers hundreds of ways to experience its culture. 

The island is full of Hindu temples, earning it the nickname “Island of a Thousand Temples.” 

Among these temples, Tanah Lot stands out due to its dramatic setting on offshore rocks. Meanwhile, Uluwatu Temple offers stunning clifftop views and a chance to encounter playful monkeys. 

Additionally, Tirta Empul provides a unique opportunity to observe Hindu bathing rituals at its sacred spring-fed pools.

Get Your Adrenaline Fix

Bali’s diverse landscape and adventurous activities cater to all levels of thrill-seekers – there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Try whitewater rafting down the Ayung River, ziplining through misty jungles, bungee jumping, or canyoning and sliding down waterfalls. You can even go diving or snorkeling to explore Bali’s rich underwater world.

After a thrilling day of activities, don’t forget to relax with a soothing Balinese massage or enjoy a cozy beachside picnic as the sun sets.

Take a Road Trip

With so many amazing sights, one of the best ways to experience Bali is to rent a car or motorbike and go on an epic road trip around the island. 

Wind along the cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula, stopping at hidden beach clubs and viewpoints. Drive up through the lush interior to see rural villages and rice terraces.

Party in Canggu

While Bali has laid-back towns, Canggu is where you’ll find the island’s hippest nightlife scene, catering to younger travelers and nomads. 

By day, it’s filled with trendy cafes and chic boutiques. At night, Canggu comes alive with bumping beach clubs, reggae bars, and all-night ragers. Don’t miss it – everyone should try it at least once.

Workation

You’ll probably have heard that Bali is one of the hottest destinations for digital nomads. So, why not try it out yourself?

Rent an apartment and enjoy living the life of a local – all while working remotely from one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Bali offers a huge range of accommodations: from budget-friendly apartments to luxury villas with the latest amenities, you can find something to suit every budget. Because Bali is one the cheapest destinations in Asia, it can be a great place to stay and work online.

Short-term rentals will likely be easier to find in tourist areas such as Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud. 

For longer-term options, check out Sanur, Jimbaran or Kerobokan. These areas tend to be quieter and more residential, making them ideal for digital nomads.

And don’t worry about spotty reception – many locations offer great infrastructure with high-speed internet connections. 

With a stable internet connection, you can easily use a VPN to stay safe while working remotely and accessing sensitive information.

Once you know how to set up a router with Surfshark, you’ll be able to work as comfortably as you would from home – all while keeping your data secure.

Luxury & Cuisine

Luxury activities are another popular pastime in Bali due to their high quality-to-price ratio. Try the local spas or hang out at a luxury resort with friends for a peaceful, relaxing experience.

Stay at a Luxury Resort  

Luxury resorts are probably one of Bali’s most popular attractions, with some of the most luxurious resorts in the world being found here. The island is filled with indulgent resorts and villas where you can vacation in pure luxury at a reasonable price. 

Local resorts feature incredible suites, acclaimed spas, and picture-perfect infinity pools. Others feature lavish private villas set in Ubud’s rice fields. 

You can even stay at celeb-favorite luxury resorts right on the beach – just step out, and you’ll find yourself on soft, white sand overlooking the beach.

Try Balinese Flavors

Don’t miss out on the bold and tasty cuisine – you can’t travel to Bali without at least trying some of the local dishes.

You have to try the crispy, juicy babi guling (roast suckling pig) – the island’s signature dish. Betutu is another classic: chicken with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-roasted. 

And Bali’s beaches aren’t only for lounging – you can use the time to taste local delicacies. Beachfront warungs serve amazing grilled seafood feasts.

If you’re on a tight schedule, make sure to at least try some of the most popular local dishes:

• Be Pasih – a warming Balinese fish curry often served with rice.
• Urab – a classic Balinese salad of green beans, cabbage, bean sprouts, spinach, and cassava leaves.
• Pepes Ikan – a fish dish seasoned with various Balinese spices, including coriander, turmeric, and fried chili peppers.
• Nasi Jinggo – a combination of rice, vegetables, a side dish, and condiments, all wrapped in a banana leaf.

Don’t limit yourself: try food from warungs, vendors on parked motorcycles, or street food markets. Just remember to stay hydrated and use hand santizer before eating in order to stay healthy in Asia.

Take a Cooking Class

Have you ever taken a cooking class while traveling abroad? This is your chance to experience a unique activity.

Take one of Bali’s cooking classes. Whip up staples like satay (skewered and grilled meat with a rich peanut sauce) and lawar (a zesty salad made with chicken, pork, vegetables, and spices).

Go Shopping

Bali is equally renowned for its vibrant array of gifts and souvenirs. From traditional handicrafts to trendy fashion, there’s something for everyone.

Shop for Local Gifts

Bali is a shopping haven for art, fashion, and homemade goods. Browse stalls at the Ubud market for baskets, carvings, batik, and trinkets. 

Seminyak is a beach resort area filled with trendy boutiques. You’ll find locally-made resort wear, furniture, and more. Make sure not to miss the Kuta Beachwalk, where you can browse a mix of local shops and international brands.

Discover New Experiences

Bali is a beautiful island filled with rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Whether you’re the beach, hike, or relaxing type, Bali offers diverse activities for all tastes.

Explore the island, take in the sights, enjoy the food, and make unforgettable memories you’ll relive for years to come.