12 Amazingly Beautiful Places in Bali That Feel Unreal

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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

• 📍 Location: Southern tip of Bali, 70-meter cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, 45 minutes from Kuta
• 🏆 Best For: Sunset chasers 🌅, cultural enthusiasts 🏮, photography lovers 📸
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Dramatic clifftop location, crashing waves below, Kecak fire dance at sunset
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching the mesmerizing Kecak dance, exploring ancient temple grounds, spotting monkeys
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Bulgari Resort Bali – Luxurious clifftop villas with ocean views

Perched dramatically on a massive cliff edge, Uluwatu Temple offers the most breathtaking coastal views I’ve ever experienced in Bali. This 11th-century temple stands as one of Bali’s six spiritual pillars. Locals believe it protects the island from evil sea spirits. The ancient stone structures transform magically during golden hour, creating perfect photo opportunities.

The famous Kecak Fire Dance unfolds as the sun sets. Dozens of performers chant in hypnotic unison while enacting Ramayana epic scenes. Watch your belongings around the resident monkeys. They’ve mastered the art of pickpocketing unsuspecting visitors! Arrive two hours before sunset to fully explore the pathways and secure prime seats for the evening performance.

2. Tegallalang Rice Terraces

• 📍 Location: Ubud region, 20 minutes north of Ubud town center
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, nature lovers 🌿, Instagram enthusiasts 📱
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Centuries-old terraced rice fields cascading down hillsides, traditional subak irrigation
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking terraced pathways, swinging over rice fields, enjoying cliffside café views
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kamandalu Ubud – Luxury resort with private villas overlooking the valley

Those postcard-perfect Bali images you’ve been dreaming about? Tegallalang Rice Terraces brings them to life with impossibly green, precisely carved paddies following the natural hillside contours. These centuries-old agricultural terraces showcase the ingenious subak irrigation system recognized by UNESCO.

Early morning visits reward you with golden light streaming across the terraces and fewer crowds. The narrow paths beyond the main viewpoint lead to hidden swings and rope activities for thrill-seekers. Sometimes seeing local farmers at work makes me appreciate the centuries of tradition that shaped this landscape.

Support the community by leaving small donations as you explore or buying locally grown coffee at small warung cafés perched along the terraces. The combination of misty air, emerald hills, and authentic agricultural traditions creates a truly magical experience.

3. Besakih Temple

• 📍 Location: Slopes of Mount Agung, Eastern Bali, 1.5 hours from Ubud
• 🏆 Best For: Cultural explorers 🏮, spiritual seekers 🧘, architecture enthusiasts 🏛️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Mountainside location, multi-tiered structures, ancient stone carvings and courtyards
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the extensive temple complex, witnessing ceremonies, enjoying Mount Agung views
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Alila Manggis – Elegant beachfront resort with Mount Agung views

Known as the “Mother Temple,” Besakih Temple stands as Bali’s most sacred spiritual center. This vast complex sprawls across Mount Agung’s southwestern slopes with 23 related temples connected by stepped terraces and staircases.

Dating back over 1,000 years, Besakih remains remarkably active. Colorful ceremonies frequently take place within its grounds. The main sanctuary, Pura Penataran Agung, features six levels rising toward the sacred mountain peak. Each level symbolizes a different stage of spiritual ascension.

Arrive early in the morning when mist often shrouds the complex in mystical ambiance. The temple’s high elevation provides sweeping views across eastern Bali on clear days. Remember this is an active place of worship. Modest dress is required, with sarongs and sashes available for rent. A local guide can provide valuable insights into centuries of history contained within these ancient walls.

4. Nusa Penida

• 📍 Location: Island southeast of mainland Bali, 45-minute fast boat ride from Sanur
• 🏆 Best For: Adventure seekers 🧗, photographers 📸, beach lovers 🏝️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, crystal turquoise waters, untouched landscapes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Kelingking Beach’s T-Rex shaped cliff, swimming with manta rays, exploring Angel’s Billabong
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Semabu Hills Hotel – Hillside resort offering panoramic island views

Jaw-dropping landscapes that seem too dramatic to be real await at Nusa Penida, Bali’s wild, untamed sister island. Until recently a hidden gem, this rugged island now draws visitors seeking Instagram-famous vistas.

The undisputed crown jewel is Kelingking Beach, where a massive limestone peninsula resembles a T-Rex head. The viewpoint alone leaves visitors speechless. The adventurous can attempt the steep path to the pristine beach below. The crystal waters around Penida offer world-class snorkeling with gentle manta rays.

Don’t miss Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool carved into coastal rock that merges with the ocean during low tide. One day barely scratches the surface. Consider staying overnight to experience Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach on the eastern coast. They’re equally spectacular but less visited due to their remote location.

5. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

• 📍 Location: Southern edge of Ubud town center, walkable from most Ubud accommodations
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts 🐒, photographers 📸, family adventures 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Ancient moss-covered temples, towering banyan trees, jungle ravines, playful macaques
• 📸 Top Experiences: Observing monkey families up close, exploring moss-covered dragon bridges, discovering hidden temples
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Komaneka at Monkey Forest – Elegant property steps from the sanctuary entrance

Step into an enchanted ecosystem where nature, spirituality, and wildlife converge at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Home to over 1,000 long-tailed macaques living freely among three ancient temple complexes from the 14th century.

Massive banyan trees with aerial roots dripping to the ground create a fairytale landscape. Moss-covered stone guardians lurk in shadows while ravines cut through the jungle floor. The forest preserves the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana (harmony between humans, nature, and spirits).

Watching baby macaques play offers endless photo opportunities. Yet many visitors rush past the architectural treasures hidden throughout the 12.5-hectare forest. The moss-covered Dragon Bridge spanning a ravine feels plucked from an adventure film. Visit early morning to avoid crowds and remember these are wild animals with sharp teeth and a fondness for shiny objects!

6. Sekumpul Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Northern Bali near Singaraja, 2 hours from Ubud
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, hikers 🥾, off-the-beaten-path adventurers 🧭
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Seven majestic waterfalls cascading down jungle cliff faces, emerald pools, misty atmosphere
• 📸 Top Experiences: Trekking through jungle and rice terraces, swimming in natural pools, photographing multiple waterfalls
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Munduk Moding Plantation – Coffee plantation resort with infinity pool overlooking mountains

Hidden in Bali’s mountainous north lies what many consider the island’s most magnificent waterfall. Sekumpul Waterfall actually comprises seven separate falls tumbling down a lush, jungle-clad cliff face. The tallest drops nearly 80 meters into an emerald pool below.

The journey itself becomes part of the adventure. A moderately challenging trek leads down hundreds of steps, across a river via bamboo bridges, and through traditional villages. The final approach reveals an amphitheater of towering falls. Their thunderous roar echoes off cliff walls as mist creates rainbows in the tropical sunlight.

Bring a swimsuit to immerse yourself in the refreshingly cool natural pools. The adventurous can hire a local guide to access additional hidden cascades nearby. While the trek takes 2-3 hours, the effort rewards you with smaller crowds than southern waterfalls. Early morning visitors might have this slice of paradise entirely to themselves.

7. Lovina Beach

• 📍 Location: Northern coast of Bali, about 3 hours drive from Denpasar
• 🏆 Best For: Dolphin watchers 🐬, snorkelers 🤿, peace seekers 🧘‍♀️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Calm black sand beaches, stunning sunrise dolphin spotting, tranquil atmosphere away from southern Bali’s crowds
• 📸 Top Experiences: Early morning dolphin watching tours, snorkeling in clear waters, enjoying authentic seafood at beachfront restaurants
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Lovina Bali Resort – Beachfront property with stunning sunset views and private pool villas

Need an escape from endless Zoom calls and inbox anxiety? Lovina Beach delivers the digital detox you deserve. This stretch of black volcanic sand feels worlds away from Bali’s tourist hotspots, creating a perfect retreat for overtaxed professionals.

Wake up early to join local fishermen on traditional outrigger boats where wild dolphins leap through golden sunrise light. I’ve never felt more present than floating there, coffee in hand, as dozens surfaced around our boat. The calm waters host vibrant coral gardens perfect for snorkeling throughout the day.

Evenings transform as local vendors serve fresh-caught seafood while spectacular sunsets paint the horizon. Grab a cold Bintang at a beachfront cafe and let the stress of adulting melt away in this northern coast paradise.

8. Nungnung Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Central Bali highlands, approximately 1.5 hours north of Ubud
• 🏆 Best For: Adventure seekers 🧗‍♀️, nature photographers 📸, waterfall chasers 💦
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Powerful 50-meter cascade surrounded by lush jungle, emerald plunge pool, fewer tourists than popular waterfalls
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the scenic forest trail, swimming in the refreshing natural pool, capturing the perfect waterfall shot
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sari Villa – Boutique accommodation with jungle views near the waterfall

That Instagram waterfall shot everyone has? Forget it. Nungnung Waterfall is where adventure-seeking professionals find the real Bali magic. The 500-step jungle descent builds anticipation as you make your way through lush central highlands just 90 minutes from Ubud.

The forest eventually opens to reveal a spectacular 50-meter cascade thundering into a misty emerald pool below. The powerful flow creates a natural shower for the brave, while the rocky enclosure amplifies the impressive acoustics. My shoulders instantly released tension I didn’t know I was carrying when that cool mist hit my face.

Visit in the mornings for peaceful solitude before midday crowds arrive. The challenging climb back up offers scenic rest points with highland views that reward your effort. This hidden gem delivers the natural drama worth sweating for after too many days behind a desk.

9. Gili Islands

• 📍 Location: Northwest coast of Lombok, accessible by fast boat from Bali’s east coast
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏝️, snorkelers 🤿, party-goers 🎉
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, car-free island lifestyle
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling with sea turtles, cycling around the islands, enjoying sunset swings in the ocean
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Gili Eco Villas – Sustainable beachfront bungalows with tropical garden surroundings

Remember when vacation meant actually disconnecting? The Gili Islands trio delivers that increasingly rare digital sabbatical just a fast boat ride from Bali’s east coast. Each island has its distinct personality: Gili Trawangan balances beach time with vibrant nightlife, serene Gili Meno provides romantic seclusion, while Gili Air strikes the perfect middle ground.

No cars or scooters exist here – just bicycles and horse-drawn carts creating a simpler pace that busy professionals crave. The surrounding waters host an underwater paradise where swimming alongside graceful sea turtles becomes routine. When I reached out to touch one (before thinking better of it), I realized this wasn’t just another holiday.

Evenings bring fresh seafood barbecues on the sand while fire dancers perform under stars. Those famous ocean swings make even corporate warriors feel like carefree kids again. The absence of motor vehicles creates a peaceful soundtrack of waves and conversation.

10. Mount Batur

• 📍 Location: Northeastern Bali, about 1.5 hours drive from Ubud
• 🏆 Best For: Sunrise chasers 🌅, hikers 🥾, volcano enthusiasts 🌋
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Breathtaking sunrise views above the clouds, panoramic vistas of Lake Batur and distant Mount Agung
• 📸 Top Experiences: Early morning summit trek, soaking in natural hot springs, exploring the caldera and black lava fields
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mount Batur Villa – Charming accommodations with lake views and easy access to trekking starting points

Trading sleep for summits is rarely regrettable. Mount Batur proves this with its pre-dawn trek that speaks to our adventure-seeking souls. Located in northeastern Bali about 90 minutes from Ubud, this active volcano offers the perfect escape from decision fatigue.

The journey begins in darkness around 3:30 AM as local guides lead you up rocky paths by headlamp. The moderately challenging two-hour climb culminates at 1,717 meters just as first light breaks. What follows is pure natural theater – golden light spilling across Lake Batur below while neighboring Mount Agung emerges from morning mist.

Watching the shadow of the volcano stretch across the landscape makes every early alarm worth it. After descending, reward your efforts with a soak in natural hot springs with volcanic views. This sunrise pilgrimage remains etched in memory long after vacation ends and you’re back in morning meetings.

11. Ubud Palace

• 📍 Location: Central Ubud, walking distance from Ubud Market
• 🏆 Best For: Culture enthusiasts 🏛️, history buffs 📜, architecture admirers 🏯
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Ornate stone carvings, traditional Balinese architecture, royal history, central garden courtyards
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the palace grounds, watching traditional dance performances in the evening, photographing the intricate details
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Komaneka at Bisma – Luxury resort with royal Balinese touches near the palace

Craving cultural immersion beyond sanitized tourist shows? Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung) delivers authentic Balinese arts without the tourist traps. This royal residence in central Ubud showcases traditional architecture with ornately carved stone gates, split doorways, and pavilions surrounding lush garden courtyards.

Visiting during daylight reveals craftwork details from demon-faced guardians to delicate floral motifs that artistically inclined professionals will appreciate. Walking through those carved gates transported me to another century, far from digital notifications and deadlines.

The palace transforms each evening with mesmerizing dance performances accompanied by gamelan orchestra in the outer courtyard. The famous Legong and Barong dances tell ancient Hindu stories through precise movements and elaborate costumes. After performances, explore Ubud’s night market across the street for local crafts and cuisine.

12. Goa Gajah

• 📍 Location: 6 km southeast of Ubud, Bedulu Village
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏺, spiritual seekers 🧘‍♂️, archaeology buffs 🔍
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Ancient stone carvings, mysterious cave entrance, lush surroundings with rice fields and forest
• 📸 Top Experiences: Entering the sacred cave temple, exploring the ancient bathing pools, wandering the jungle paths to hidden ruins
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Puri Sebali Resort – Luxury villas nestled in rice terraces near the temple

Ever yearn to channel your inner Indiana Jones? Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) lets professionals temporarily trade spreadsheets for adventure. This 11th-century sanctuary immediately captivates with its menacing entrance – an elaborately carved demon’s mouth with bulging eyes serving as the doorway into darkness. 

The ancient meditation site blends Hindu and Buddhist elements, reflecting Bali’s complex religious history. Inside, find lingam-yoni fertility symbols and a statue of Ganesha. Beyond the cave, discover recently excavated ancient bathing pools with partially restored fountains. 

Wander pathways through bamboo forest to find lesser-visited ruins scattered throughout the grounds. The morning mist hanging between ancient stones creates a photographer’s dream. Visit early when birdsong and rustling leaves enhance the mystical atmosphere perfect for contemplating life beyond quarterly reports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Bali

Interested in learning more about the most scenic places in Bali? Here are some frequent questions I receive regarding the top Bali attractions and activities.

Where is the most beautiful place in Bali?

Bali is a treasure trove of beauty, with each corner offering something unique. However, many travelers and locals alike consider places like the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Sekumpul Waterfall, and Nusa Penida as some of the most beautiful spots on the island.

What is the prettiest beach in Bali?

Bali is home to many beautiful beaches, each with its unique charm and character. One beach that often tops the list for its stunning beauty is Padang Padang Beach.

Located on the Bukit Peninsula, near Uluwatu, Padang Padang Beach is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and dramatic limestone cliffs that provide a spectacular backdrop. The beach is accessed through a narrow passage and steep steps, which adds to its secluded and exclusive feel.

The surf at Padang Padang is renowned among surfers, but the beach also has a calm lagoon area that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The combination of natural beauty, great surf, and idyllic swimming conditions makes it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

It’s worth noting that Bali has many other remarkable beaches, such as Seminyak Beach for its vibrant scene, Kelingking Beach for its unique T-Rex shape, and Lovina Beach for its black volcanic sand. Depending on what you’re looking for – whether it’s natural beauty, water sports, relaxation, or nightlife – a different beach might be the “prettiest” one for you. But for sheer scenic beauty, Padang Padang Beach is hard to beat.

Where is the most popular in Bali?

Ubud, with its cultural attractions, Seminyak’s vibrant beach scene, and Kuta’s bustling nightlife, are among the most popular destinations in Bali. Additionally, the sacred Besakih Temple and the picturesque Gili Islands also draw significant attention from visitors.

What is the best time to visit Bali?

The dry season, from April to October, is considered the best time to visit Bali. The weather is pleasant, and there’s less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Is it safe to trek Mount Batur?

Yes, trekking Mount Batur is generally safe. However, it’s recommended to go with a local guide, especially if you’re planning a sunrise trek. They know the terrain well and can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Can I interact with the monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary?

While the monkeys at the sanctuary are used to human presence, it’s essential to be cautious. Avoid feeding them, and keep your belongings secure. It’s best to observe them from a distance and avoid sudden movements.

What is the fanciest area in Bali?

The Seminyak area in Bali is one of the fanciest and most upscale regions on the island. Here’s a brief overview of what makes Seminyak stand out:

1. Luxury resorts and villas: Seminyak is home to a wide range of luxury accommodations, including five-star hotels and private villas, many with beachfront views.
2. High-end shopping: The area is known for its sophisticated shopping scene, including designer boutiques and upscale art galleries.
3. Gourmet dining: Seminyak is a food lover’s paradise, with numerous fine dining restaurants offering international and fusion cuisine, often prepared by world-renowned chefs.
4. Chic nightlife: The nightlife in Seminyak is lively yet refined, with stylish nightclubs, rooftop bars, and beach clubs that host international DJs and offer craft cocktails.
5. Spa and wellness centers: Many of the luxury resorts have top-notch spa facilities. There are also independent wellness centers that offer everything from traditional Balinese massages to holistic wellness treatments.
6. Private beaches: Some of the resorts in Seminyak offer private beach areas where you can enjoy the sea and sun away from the crowds, complete with personalized service.
7. Fashionable crowd: The area tends to attract a well-heeled crowd, including celebrities, fashionistas, and discerning travelers looking for a sophisticated ambiance.
8. Location: Seminyak’s location near other popular spots like Kuta and Legian, yet with a more upscale and less chaotic vibe, makes it an attractive base for exploring Bali.

Seminyak is a great destination for those looking to indulge in the finer things and enjoy a luxurious and elegant holiday experience in Bali.

Are the Gili Islands part of Bali?

The Gili Islands are not part of Bali but are located nearby, off the northwest coast of Lombok. They are easily accessible from Bali by boat and are popular side trips for many Bali visitors.

How do I get to Nusa Penida from Bali?

Nusa Penida is accessible by speedboats and ferries from Sanur, Padang Bai, and a few other ports in Bali. The boat ride usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Bali

Bali, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, is truly a traveler’s paradise. From the serene Tegallalang Rice Terraces to the bustling streets of Ubud, every corner of the island tells a story. For those seeking the most beautiful places in Bali, the journey is as rewarding as the destinations themselves. Each site, be it a temple, beach, or waterfall, offers a unique experience, a glimpse into the island’s soul.

The best places to visit in Bali are not just about scenic beauty; they’re about immersion. Engaging with local traditions, savoring authentic cuisine, and witnessing age-old rituals make the trip memorable. Visiting Bali is more than just a vacation; it’s an exploration of self, set against the backdrop of nature and culture.

As you curate your Bali itinerary, remember to tread lightly. The island’s beauty lies in its pristine landscapes and vibrant traditions. By traveling responsibly, we ensure that the beautiful places of Bali remain untouched for future generations to cherish.

In the end, Bali is not just a destination; it’s a feeling, an emotion that stays with you long after the trip ends. So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and let the island’s magic envelop you.