Bali actually made me gasp out loud. When I first walked through the Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple, watching the sunrise paint Mount Agung volcano in shades of pink and gold, I forgot every single Instagram photo I’d ever seen. The morning mist swirling around those ancient dragon staircases created a scene that no camera could ever capture.
From floating in the infinity pool at Uluwatu’s clifftop temples to walking through the endless green ribbons of the Tegalalang rice terraces, these are the most beautiful places in Bali that made me understand why people fall so hard for this island. After spending three weeks exploring here, I can tell you these 12 spots prove Bali’s magic goes way deeper than social media lets on.
Best Things to Do in Bali
Looking for the coolest things to do in Bali? Visit the stunning Uluwatu Temple, marvel at the lush landscapes of the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and explore the spiritual beauty of Besakih Temple. Take a trip to the breathtaking island of Nusa Penida and experience the playful charm of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or adventure, here are the top attractions to visit in Bali.
1. Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple seriously delivers on the hype. This 70-meter cliffside temple doesn’t just give you killer ocean views – it’s got the whole package with those dramatic waves crashing below and traditional Kecak fire dance performances that actually made me forget to check my phone.
The temple itself dates back to the 11th century, and honestly, walking those ancient stone pathways during golden hour feels pretty magical. But here’s the real deal – the Kecak dance shows run twice daily at 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, with each performance lasting about an hour. I’d go for the 6:00 PM show because you get that perfect sunset backdrop, though it’s way hotter sitting in direct sun.
Entrance to the temple costs IDR 50,000 for adults (about $3.50), and Kecak dance tickets are an additional IDR 150,000 ($10) on the spot. Pro tip: those monkeys are basically professional pickpockets, so zip up everything or you’ll be buying your sunglasses back from them. I learned this the hard way when one grabbed my hat and refused to give it back until I offered food.
The best strategy? Show up around 4:30 PM to explore the temple grounds, snag good seats, and watch the sunset paint everything golden before the dance starts. It’s touristy as hell, but sometimes touristy things are popular for good reasons.
2. Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Tegalalang Rice Terraces look exactly like those Bali photos you’ve been saving on Instagram, except way greener in person. Located about 20 minutes north of Ubud, these UNESCO-recognized terraces showcase that ancient subak irrigation system that’s kept Balinese farmers growing rice for over 1,000 years.
Here’s the thing though – you can’t just walk through the terraces for free anymore. Most viewpoints require entrance fees ranging from IDR 10,000 to 50,000 ($0.70-$3.50) depending on which spot you choose. I went through the Ceking Rice Terrace entrance and walked down into the valley, crossing a bridge to reach those famous white paving stone paths everyone photographs.
The swings cost extra – anywhere from IDR 150,000 to 400,000 ($10-$28) depending on how many swings you want to try. The best time for photos is definitely between 6:00-7:00 AM when the light hits just right and you’ll actually have space to breathe without dodging selfie sticks.
Real talk: it’s become pretty commercialized with dress rentals and Instagram setups everywhere. But early morning when the mist hangs over those emerald terraces and you can hear farmers working in the fields? That’s when you remember why people fall in love with Bali. Just bring cash – they don’t take cards, and bargain politely for everything including bottled water.
3. Besakih Temple
Besakih Temple sits on the slopes of Mount Agung like Bali’s spiritual headquarters, which it basically is. Known as the “Mother Temple,” this massive complex has 23 interconnected temples spanning different levels up the mountainside – each one representing a stage of spiritual elevation.
I’ll be honest, the 1.5-hour drive from Ubud feels long, but arriving at this 1,000-year-old complex makes the trip worth it. The main sanctuary, Pura Penataran Agung, rises in six levels toward Mount Agung’s peak, and on clear days you get sweeping views across eastern Bali that’ll make your shoulders drop with relief.
The temple stays active with colorful ceremonies happening regularly, so don’t be surprised if you walk into a full-blown religious celebration with gamelan music and people in traditional white clothing. That’s actually the best time to visit – you get to witness authentic Balinese Hindu practices instead of just empty buildings.
Entrance fees are modest (around IDR 30,000), and sarongs plus sashes are available for rent if you’re not dressed modestly. Come early morning when mist often shrouds the complex in mysterious atmosphere. I spent three hours here wandering different levels and still felt like I barely scratched the surface. Hiring a local guide helps decode the centuries of history carved into these stone walls.
4. Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is basically Bali’s wild younger sibling – all dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and zero chill about accessibility. Getting there from Bali takes about 40-45 minutes by fast boat from Sanur Harbor, with tickets starting around $11-22 USD depending on the operator and season. Boats run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily with multiple departures.
Kelingking Beach is the star – that T-Rex shaped cliff everyone photographs actually looks more impressive in person. The viewpoint alone will blow your mind, but if you’re feeling adventurous, the steep hike down to the beach takes about 45 minutes each way and requires decent fitness. I made it halfway down before my knees started protesting.
Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach are must-sees too. Angel’s Billabong is this natural infinity pool that connects to the ocean during low tide – absolutely surreal. Crystal Bay offers the best snorkeling on the island, and if you’re lucky, you might spot manta rays at Manta Point.
One day trips are popular, but staying overnight lets you catch sunrise at Diamond Beach and explore the quieter eastern side without rushing. The roads are pretty rough, so either hire a local driver (they know every pothole) or rent a scooter only if you’re comfortable with challenging terrain. Bring cash, sunscreen, and patience – this isn’t a place to rush through.
5. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud is where ancient temples meet mischievous monkeys in the most Instagram-worthy chaos you can imagine. This 12.5-hectare forest houses over 1,000 long-tailed macaques living among 14th-century temple complexes that look straight out of an adventure movie.
Those massive banyan trees with aerial roots draping everywhere create this enchanted forest vibe that makes you forget you’re five minutes from Ubud’s main street. The moss-covered Dragon Bridge spanning a jungle ravine particularly gives me Indiana Jones vibes, especially when mist hangs between the ancient stone guardians.
But let’s talk about these monkeys – they’re basically tiny pickpockets with opposable thumbs. I watched one systematically go through a tourist’s backpack while another distracted her by being cute. They particularly love sunglasses, phones, water bottles, and anything shiny. Keep everything zipped up tight.
The sanctuary operates on the Tri Hita Karana philosophy – harmony between humans, nature, and spirits – which you’ll actually feel walking these ancient paths. Entry costs about IDR 80,000 ($5.50), and early morning visits reward you with better lighting and fewer crowds. The baby monkeys playing will melt your heart, just don’t try to touch them. These are wild animals with attitude and surprisingly strong grips.
6. Sekumpul Waterfall
Sekumpul Waterfall in northern Bali is basically seven waterfalls showing off for each other, creating this amphitheater of cascading water that makes every other waterfall you’ve seen look basic. Located about 2 hours from Ubud, this hidden gem requires some effort but delivers spectacular payoff.
The trek down takes you through traditional villages, across bamboo bridges, and along jungle paths for about 2-3 hours round trip. The final approach reveals all seven falls tumbling down lush cliff faces with the tallest dropping nearly 80 meters into emerald pools below. The thunderous roar and misty atmosphere create this natural cathedral effect that’s genuinely breathtaking.
I spent an hour just sitting on the rocks letting that cool mist wash away weeks of Zoom meeting stress. The brave can swim in the natural pools – the water’s refreshingly cold and crystal clear. Local guides (highly recommended) can also show you additional hidden waterfalls nearby for around IDR 200,000 ($14).
The early morning light filtering through the mist creates magical photography opportunities, plus you might have the place mostly to yourself. Bring sturdy shoes with good grip, swimwear, and snacks since facilities are limited. This trek rewards the adventurous with one of Bali’s most spectacular natural shows.
7. Lovina Beach
Lovina Beach on Bali’s northern coast is where you go to remember what vacation actually feels like. Those black volcanic sand beaches stretch for miles with calm waters and zero aggressive vendors – just pure relaxation vibes that busy professionals desperately need.
The main attraction? Dolphin watching at sunrise. Local fishermen take you out in traditional outrigger boats around 6:00 AM, and honestly, floating there with coffee while wild dolphins leap through golden morning light ranks among my most peaceful travel moments ever. It’s not guaranteed, but success rates are pretty high year-round.
The snorkeling here beats southern Bali’s choppy waters – clear visibility and vibrant coral gardens just offshore. Plus, Lovina’s sunsets paint the sky in ridiculous colors while you’re sipping cold Bintangs at beachfront warungs serving fresh-caught seafood.
It’s about a 3-hour drive from Denpasar, but that distance keeps crowds away. The vibe is authentically Indonesian rather than international party scene. Accommodation ranges from budget homestays to nice resorts, all significantly cheaper than southern Bali. Come here when you need actual rest instead of Instagram content – though the sunrise dolphin photos are pretty spectacular too.
8. Nungnung Waterfall
Nungnung Waterfall in central Bali’s highlands is that hidden gem adventure-seeking professionals discover when they’re tired of crowded tourist traps. About 90 minutes north of Ubud, this 50-meter cascade thunders into a misty emerald pool with dramatic acoustics that’ll make you forget every conference call you’ve ever been on.
The 500-step descent through jungle terrain builds anticipation as you make your way down increasingly steep paths. When the forest finally opens to reveal this powerful waterfall surrounded by towering rock walls, the natural drama is genuinely impressive. That cool mist hitting your face instantly releases tension you didn’t realize you were carrying.
Swimming in the plunge pool feels like nature’s ultimate reset button. The water’s cold and refreshing, while the enclosed rocky amphitheater amplifies the waterfall’s roar into this meditative white noise. Local warungs at the top serve basic meals and cold drinks for the challenging climb back up.
Visit mornings for peaceful solitude before midday heat and crowds arrive. The trek back up offers scenic rest points with highland views that reward your cardiovascular effort. Bring sturdy shoes, swimwear, and plenty of water. This hidden waterfall delivers the natural drama that makes sweating through jungle hikes totally worthwhile after too many days behind a desk.
9. Gili Islands
The Gili Islands aren’t technically Bali, but they’re close enough (fast boat from Bali’s east coast) and deliver that digital detox vacation experience that proves screens are overrated. These three tiny islands – Trawangan for nightlife, Meno for romance, Air for balance – have zero cars or scooters. Just bicycles, horse-drawn carts, and the sound of waves.
Gili Trawangan balances beach relaxation with vibrant evening scene, while serene Gili Meno provides honeymoon-level seclusion. Gili Air strikes the perfect middle ground with laid-back vibes and decent dining options. The surrounding waters are basically an underwater paradise where swimming alongside sea turtles becomes routine instead of special.
I reached out to pet one (don’t do this) before remembering these are wild creatures deserving respect. But floating there watching them gracefully glide past while rainbow fish dart through coral gardens? That’s when vacation brain finally kicks in and work anxiety dissolves.
Evenings bring fresh seafood barbecues on the sand with fire dancers performing under stars. Those famous ocean swings give even stressed executives permission to feel like carefree kids again. The absence of motor vehicles creates this peaceful soundtrack of conversation and waves that reminds you what quiet actually sounds like.
10. Mount Batur
Mount Batur sunrise trek is that pre-dawn adventure that transforms corporate warriors into temporarily enlightened humans. Located 90 minutes from Ubud, this active volcano offers the perfect antidote to decision fatigue and meeting overload.
The journey starts around 3:30 AM (yes, really) as local guides lead you up rocky paths by headlamp. The moderately challenging two-hour climb through darkness builds anticipation as you ascend to 1,717 meters. Then first light breaks, and what follows is pure natural theater – golden sunrise spilling across Lake Batur below while Mount Agung emerges from morning mist.
Watching the volcano’s shadow stretch across the landscape makes every early alarm worth enduring. The summit experience combines achievement satisfaction with genuine awe at nature’s daily show. Plus, guides often prepare simple breakfast using volcanic steam vents, which feels appropriately badass.
After descending, reward your efforts with a soak in natural hot springs overlooking volcanic views. This sunrise pilgrimage creates memories that stick long after you’re back in quarterly planning sessions. Book with reputable operators who provide headlamps, light breakfast, and experienced guides. Wear layers since pre-dawn temperatures can be surprisingly cool, but you’ll warm up quickly once hiking begins.
11. Ubud Palace
Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung) offers authentic Balinese culture without tourist trap gimmicks. This royal residence in central Ubud showcases traditional architecture with intricately carved stone gates, split doorways, and pavilions surrounding peaceful garden courtyards that’ll make design-minded professionals appreciate centuries-old craftsmanship.
Visiting during daylight reveals incredible detail work – demon-faced guardians, delicate floral motifs, and architectural elements that transported me far from digital notifications. The ornate stone carvings demonstrate artistic skill that puts modern rapid construction to shame.
The palace transforms each evening with mesmerizing traditional dance performances in the outer courtyard. The famous Legong and Barong dances tell ancient Hindu stories through precise movements and elaborate costumes, accompanied by live gamelan orchestra. These aren’t sanitized tourist shows – they’re authentic cultural performances locals attend too.
Entry to palace grounds during the day is free, while evening performances cost around IDR 100,000 ($7). Shows typically start at 7:30 PM and last 90 minutes. After performances, explore Ubud’s night market across the street for local crafts and street food. The combination of cultural immersion and central location makes this an easy addition to any Ubud itinerary.
12. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
Goa Gajah lets professionals temporarily trade spreadsheets for archaeological adventure just 20 minutes southeast of Ubud. This 11th-century sanctuary immediately grabs attention with its menacing entrance – an elaborately carved demon’s mouth with bulging eyes serving as the doorway into mysterious darkness.
The ancient meditation site blends Hindu and Buddhist elements, reflecting Bali’s complex religious history that’s way more nuanced than most tourists realize. Inside the cave, find lingam-yoni fertility symbols and a Ganesha statue, while recently excavated bathing pools outside feature partially restored fountains that archaeologists are still working on.
Beyond the main cave, wander pathways through bamboo forest to discover lesser-visited ruins scattered throughout the grounds. These hidden temple remnants create perfect photography opportunities, especially when morning mist hangs between ancient stones. The jungle setting adds mysterious atmosphere that makes you feel like an explorer rather than a tourist.
Entry costs around IDR 50,000 ($3.50), and early morning visits offer the best combination of good lighting and peaceful atmosphere. Local guides can explain the site’s spiritual significance and historical context for additional fees. This archaeological gem provides cultural depth that balances Bali’s natural attractions with fascinating glimpses into the island’s ancient past.
