Bali is such a special place. The island is known for its stunning beaches, gorgeous green tropical forests, and amazing culture. There are so many amazing things to do in Bali.

The Balinese culture is deeply rooted in religion, with temples and offerings visible throughout the island. The locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming - some of the nicest people you’ll encounter while traveling. The food in Bali is also really good, with a range of delicious dishes influenced by local ingredients and global influences.

There are so many unique and amazing things to experience, it’s hard to narrow it down. Here are our top 20 things to do in Bali.

20 Things To Do In Bali

1. Visit Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple is located on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean in the southern part of the island. It’s also known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu and is one of the six key temples believed to be Bali’s spiritual pillars. The temple is home to some mischievous monkeys, so make sure to keep your belongings close.

2. Go Surfing At Uluwatu Beach

If you're a surfer, Uluwatu is one of the best places to be. Uluwatu Beach is a popular spot for surfers and has consistent waves no matter what time of year. It's best for intermediate to advanced surfers because of the reef break. Aside from being a great place to surf, you have amazing views to look at.

3. Take A Yoga Class At Yoga Barn

For an Eat, Pray, Love” experience, head to Yoga Barn in Ubud and take a yoga class. They offer classes for all levels, so don’t worry if you’re a beginner. You’ll leave refreshed and extremely relaxed.

4. Go Snorkeling or Diving in Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island, located off the northwest coast of Bali, is known for its coral reefs and diverse marine life. Part of the West Bali National Park, this secluded island offers some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in Bali. The crystal-clear waters surrounding Menjangan are home to so many fish species, including the iconic and elusive Menjangan (Javanese) deer, after which the island is named.

5. Visit The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Monkey Forest Sanctuary is another iconic top thing to do in Bali. You’ll wander through the forest with hundreds of monkeys roaming about. And the infamous monkeys are no joke… proceed with caution! They are known to climb up and steal things from people. As long as you’re mindful, it will be a pleasant experience.

6. Cleanse At Tirta Empul Temple

Participate in a traditional cleansing ritual at this holy water temple in Tampak Siring. It’s a very unique experience. If you plan on getting into the water (which you should for the full experience), make sure to bring a towel. For girls, be sure to also bring bikini bottoms + a change of clothes.

7. Visit Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple, situated on the southwestern coast of Bali, is an iconic sea temple that symbolizes the island’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The temple is perched on a rock formation just offshore and appears to float above the Indian Ocean. You can explore the temple grounds and see the Balinese architecture, ancient stone carvings, and sculptures. During low tide, you can even walk to the base of the temple. Be sure to plan your visit around the sunset - it’s gorgeous.

8. Explore Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Goa Gajah, known as the Elephant Cave, is an ancient archaeological site with a super cool cave entrance, intricate carvings, and a tranquil temple. Located in Ubud, this ancient cave dates back to the 9th century and is adorned with intricate carvings. The entrance to the cave is marked by a demon's mouth. Inside, you will encounter a cavernous space with a central meditation area and the remains of ancient bathing pools.

9. Climb Mount Batur

Although climbing Mount Batur starts with a 2am wake-up call to hike an active volcano, it’s a great experience. Most guides will pick you up from your hotel, treat you to coffee/breakfast, and then take you on the hike. It’s pretty dark for the majority of the hike (since the goal is to make it up the mountain by sunrise), but once you get to the top, it’s worth it. The sunrise is beautiful and the views are gorgeous.

10. Watch A Bali Sunset

A Bali sunset feels like you’re watching the sunset on the edge of the world. Regardless of where you are in Bali, there are so many amazing places to experience the sunset. Single Fin is probably one of the most popular spots in Uluwatu – made obvious by the dozens of motorbikes parked outside when you arrive. It’s a multi-story bar/restaurant with seating on a first come-first serve basis.

La Plancha (in Seminyak) is another great place watch the sunset. Imagine lounging on a beanbag chair overlooking the ocean/sunset, surrounded by a beach full of people and colorful umbrellas. Add in a cold glass of wine and speakers playing old dance hits - it doesn't get much better than that.

11. Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces

One of the most iconic things to do in Bali is to go to the rice terrace (or rice paddies). You can walk through the fields, take pictures and learn about Bali's traditional agricultural practices.

12. Try Balinese Cuisine

Balinese cuisine includes a blend of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and locally sourced ingredients. Most meals are usually accompanied by Bumbu Bali (a spicy sambal chili paste) and the aromatic Boreh (a herbal paste believed to have health benefits). Be sure to try all the staples:

Nasi Goreng: A delicious fried rice dish often served with a fried egg on top
Babi Guling: Suckling pig, usually enjoyed on special occasions
Bebek Betutu: A slow-cooked duck infused with traditional spices
Sate Lilit: Fish satay wrapped around bamboo sticks
Lawar: A traditional minced meat salad with herbs and spices
Ayam Betutu: A slow-cooked chicken dish

13. Attend a Traditional Kecak Dance

Attending a traditional Kecak Dance performance in Bali is a unique cultural experience. Typically held in the evenings at open-air amphitheaters, the dance includes performers dressed in traditional costumes, reenacting ancient stories.

14. Visit The Four Seasons Ubud (Sayan)

The Four Seasons in Sayan, Ubud is stunning and definitely earns its keep as one of the top hotels in the world. Surrounded by rice terraces and palm trees, the resort is peaceful and serene. Even if you aren’t staying at the Four Seasons, you can still walk around and grab a drink at their bar.

15. Go Swimming At The Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall is situated in the lush jungles near Ubud. It’s one of the most popular waterfalls in Bali and allows visitors to swim in the pool at its base. There is gorgeous greenery surrounding the waterfall, making it super peaceful. The waterfall is easily accessible, with a short walk down a staircase that leads to a gorgeous viewpoint.

16. Spend A Day At Finn’s Beach Club

Seminyak is known for its clubs (specifically, beach clubs). One of the most popular beach clubs is Finn’s Beach Club. Finn’s is like a Vegas pool party, but on the beach overlooking the ocean. Whether you come for a drink or spend the whole day there, you’ll have such a great time.

17. Swing On The Bali Swing

The Bali Swing is one of the more Instagram-able spots in Bali. Aside from the swing, there are a number of other swings + activities to do. You pay for entry and have access for however long you want. If you’re trying to take a lot of pictures, be sure to get there right when it opens to avoid a rush.

18. Relax At Seminyak Beach

Seminyak Beach is located on Bali’s southwest coast. Unlike some of the busier beaches in Bali, Seminyak is more laid back. The beach is filled with chic beach clubs, bars, and luxury resorts. You can partake in a variety of water activities from surfing to horseback riding. And as I mentioned earlier, don’t miss experiencing a Bali sunset on Seminyak beach!

19. Take A Balinese Cooking Class

Taking a Balinese cooking class is an immersive way to learn more about the island’s culinary heritage. Classes usually start with a visit to a local market, where you’ll pick fresh ingredients. You’ll learn the art of preparing traditional dishes like Nasi Goreng, Babi Guling, and Lawar. The instructor will share insight into the cultural significance of the ingredients and the role of food in Balinese traditions. Most classes take place in a charming setting too.

20. Visit Pura Lempuyang

Pura Lempuyang, often referred to as the "Gateway to Heaven," is a spiritually significant and stunning temple complex situated on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang in East Bali. It’s known for its iconic split gate, or "Candi Bentar," that frames a view of Mount Agung, Bali's highest volcano. The temple complex consists of several different temples, with the main temple, Pura Lempuyang Luhur, situated at the summit. To reach the top, you’ll climb ~1,700 steps, passing other smaller temples along the way. The views are amazing.

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20 Top Things To Do In Bali