It is not only one of the best destinations for secluded beaches, rich culture, and spirit-awakening, but it is also home to cliff-top cocktail bars, lush landscapes, the friendliest locals, and cheap buys. Despite an ever-increasing number of visitors, Bali has maintained its reputation as the premier destination for both passive and active recreation.

As you may know, I used to be a corporate slave, so I only had four full days in Bali (leaving for Singapore on the fifth day). Nonetheless, even in a short amount of time, Bali managed to exude that magic.

Transportation in Bali

I can say that renting scooters and exploring at your own pace is your best option. Otherwise, find a mode of transportation and a driver for about $30 per day. Taking a taxi between locations is another. But make sure to only get the metered ones.

Places To See in Bali

1. Temples

This small Hindu island, known as “the island of a thousand temples,” has an endless number of sacred temples and shrines honoring the various Gods who run and meander Bali island. In fact, every Balinese home has its own little temple or shrine where they place their offerings several times a day, as well as large temples for each village where ceremonies are held.

Pura Tanah Lot

My personal favorite, presumably because it provides the most picturesque view of a Bali sunset. It is perched on a cliff that juts out into the sea, surrounded by dark sand and crashing waves. However, there is one issue: CROWD. So I strongly advise you to continue walking to the left until you reach large rock formations, then sit for hours and watch the sky gradually change shades from orange to pink to purple and blue.

Opening Hours: 7am – 7pm

Admission: Rp 60,000/adult and Rp 30,000/child

Uluwatu

Uluwatu is a strong contender for personal favorite! Sitting on a high limestone cliff, you can bet the view of the ocean and the powerful waves crashing on the stones below is simply breathtaking! Also, keep an eye out for cheeky monkeys who are always on the lookout for food and items from unsuspecting tourists — one stole my cap!

Opening hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm

Admission:  Rp 30,000/adult and Rp 20,000/child

Dress Code:  You will be required to wear a sarong.  If you don’t have one, you can borrow one at the entrance.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan

Another iconic Bali landmark, the name of this temple translates to “the head of the lake.” It was constructed to honor the gods and goddesses of all water, Bali’s source of life. If you want to do something different, you can rent a paddle boat and float around on the lake.

Opening hours: 8am – 6pm

Admission: Rp. 50,000/adult and Rp. 25,000/child

2. Tegalalang Rice Terraces

The most well-known rice terraces in Bali, and the one depicted on most postcards. Tegallalang Rice Terraces is only a 20-minute drive from Ubud’s center and provides an excellent view of lush and green terraces.

Top tip: Make sure to go for a walk in between the terraces.

3. Handara Golf Resort Bali Gate

Don’t be fooled! This is not the entrance to a Balinese temple.

Handara Golf Resort Bali is located in Pancasari Village Bedugul in Bali’s central highlands. Handara Gate, made popular by Instagram, is definitely worth a visit after visiting Pura Ulun Danu Bratan.

We didn’t pay a dime during our visit, but on February 15, 2018, Handara began issuing a ticket for taking photos.

Fee: Rp. 20.000/person but parking is free of charge

4. Tegenungan Waterfall

If you want to visit a waterfall close to Denpasar City, Tegenungan is your best bet. Because it is so close to the city, it is easily a tourist destination. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit and cool off at the bottom of the falls. After a short hike, you’ll most likely want to cool off.

Opening Hours: 8am to 7pm

Admission: Rp 10,000

Things To Do in Bali

1. Dive

Well, need I say more?

While I still aspire to be a professional freediver, I am able to stay underwater for longer periods of time than usual.

A trip underwater is one that SHOULD NOT BE MISSED because it offers a unique vast of marine species and underwater landscapes. It is never difficult to enjoy Bali’s rich marine biodiversity when visiting.

JUST PLEASE BE MINDFUL OF YOUR TRASH.

2. Stay in Private Villas

Staying in a private villa does not have to be expensive. And, of course, you’re in Bali! You are more than deserving of treating and pampering yourself in a setting like this, where relaxation is literally at your fingertips.

Imagine yourself relaxing by the pool after a long day of hiking through lush green fields. It couldn’t get any better than that, could it? And Ubud Heaven Penestanan was a knockout; highly recommended!

However, if you are on a tight budget, I recommend booking for at least one night to get the full Balinese experience! There are undoubtedly less expensive alternatives on Agoda, Booking, and B&Bs.

3. Enjoy a Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran

Jimbaran is famous for its romantic sumptuous seafood dinners by the sea. Candlelight + beer + the soothing sound of the waves, anyone? Don’t worry if you didn’t make reservations; as soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a long line of restaurants serving a variety of seafood dishes. Tucking into succulent seafood right on the beach against the backdrop of a slowly setting sun is a breathtaking experience. This is a must-see. If you’re coming with a partner, expect a group of people to serenade you in front of your table, but keep in mind that tipping is an option.

Tip: A visit is usually taken after visiting the Uluwatu Temple.

4. Surfing in Kuta

More than temples and yoga, Bali is also home to some of the world’s best waves, making it an ideal destination for surfers. While Lovina and Echo beaches are excellent surfing spots, I recommend visiting Kuta first, especially if you are not a pro surfer. This is where visitors can learn to surf for the first time without feeling bad about not nailing it in front of a crowd of tourists relaxing on the beach! ha! Relax, have a drink or two, and watch the sky slowly turn pink.

5. Cycle and walk around

You may want to see as much as possible despite the limited number of days you have, but don’t forget to pause for a moment and take in your surroundings. There’s nothing like taking in the beauty of nature while walking through empty roads and wide green fields. It’s more like channeling your inner Julia Roberts in search of harmony and balance!

Cycling is also an absolute must! Bike rentals are available everywhere, and renting for a day won’t break the bank!

6. Trek Mt. Agung

With so many things to do in Bali, hiking remains one of the best excursions when visiting Indonesia. Despite the risks, connecting with nature is still the best option, and hiking up Bali’s highest mountain, Mt. Agung, provides that opportunity.

You might be wondering why I didn’t go for Mt. Batur instead. My answer is simple: it is the HIGHEST mountain and the MOST DIFFICULT trek. So, how can someone who craves adventure say no to that? Mt. Batur is also very touristy.

Click here to read my full guide on trekking Mt. Agung!

7. Take A Day Trip To Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is the largest of the three Nusa Islands off the coast of Bali. However, if you have more time on your hands, I strongly advise you to spend at least two days, if not four! There are so many beautiful places to visit that a day trip is definitely insufficient. However, if you are unlucky, as I was, Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach should be at the top of your list.

The roads are in poor condition, so if you are not an experienced scooter driver, I recommend hiring a taxi or, better yet, looking for a local who has one!

How to get to Nusa Penida from Bali

You can take a speedboat from Bali to Nusa Penida and return to Bali in the evening. There are ticketing shops all around, so you won’t have to worry even if you book a day or two before your planned trip.

Angel’s Billabong

It’s difficult to find a single word to describe this location. Angel’s Billabong is a truly magical place. The crystal clear tide pool is deep enough that you’ll want to jump in and take a relaxing dip.

Broken Beach

Broken Beach is a stunning little cove on the Indonesian island of Nusa Penida. It is one of those places that will leave you in awe, wondering how mother nature came to be as beautiful as it appears before your eyes. The name Broken Beach refers to the passage that folds over the bay, allowing water to flow in and out of the sea.

Unfortunately, there is no way to swim in the cove. Sad. I know how you feel.

8. Visit Ubud Art Market

The Ubud Market, located just across the street from the Ubud Palace, is a must-see bustling market where you can find everything from sarongs, souvenirs, clothes, and handicrafts. ALWAYS haggle on the price before purchasing anything. These sellers are seasoned hustlers, but you must keep up and demonstrate who is the true boss! lol

Also, make a point of walking around and exploring the market first.

Best Foods in Bali

1. Nasi Goreng

FUN FACT: I’m that Asian who doesn’t eat rice but, GOOD LAWD… Nasi Goreng was definitely something!

This dish accounted for 90% of all the food I ate during my stay.

The way the local ingredients were combined to technical perfection was nothing short of spectacular on the palate. Exquisite to look at and even more so to eat.

2. Taste The World’s Most Expensive, Luwak Coffee

“Ugh. Disgusting.” I hushed. But, hey, the coffee was pretty tasty.

Simply put, civets eat and digest the best beans. The poo is then collected and cleaned by the specialists. Roasted. Then brewed. Luwak Coffee is considered a rare delicacy due to its unique manufacturing process, making it one of the most expensive coffees in the world, with retail prices reaching 700 USD per kilogram! Isn’t that insane?

Nonetheless, the coffee tasting was free!

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Despite the growing popularity and number of tourists visiting, Bali is still a place for peace and serenity. No doubt. I wish to pay a visit again in the near future but stay longer, definitely.