Bali Bucket List: 35 Amazing Things You Must Do

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Bali is so much more than your average tropical getaway – it has an undeniable allure that attracts a diverse range of travellers thanks to it’s rich cultural tapestry, diverse landscape, incredible food, excellent yoga and more. So if you are planning a trip to Bali and wondering what to put on your Bali bucket list, look no further! 

This Indonesian island is popular for expats and remote workers because the cost of living is so low compared to western countries and because of how beautiful it is. I have visited twice now and have spent a long time in Bali and the surrounding islands – so I am armed with all the info for you in this Bali guide.

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The Ultimate Bali Bucket List

This comprehensive guide includes 35 of the best things to add to your Bali bucket list. I also have a list of things you should not do in Bali.

My advice – don’t leave for Bali without this guide! 

1. Go scuba diving at Tulamben Bay

It is no secret that diving at Tulamben Bay was one of my favourite things to do in Bali. The east coast is definitely one to add to your Bali bucket list due to it still being relatively untouched by mass tourism. Amed and Tulamben offer fantastic diving and snorkelling opportunities, where you can explore the coral reefs and the USAT Liberty shipwreck.

2. Hike up Mount Batur at Sunrise

An early morning hike to the summit of Mount Batur offers breathtaking sunrise views over Bali and the surrounding islands. A rewarding experience for adventure seekers – you can also choose to take a jeep tour up to Mount Batur and have breakfast there. 

3. Walk Between The Gates Of Heaven 

The Instagram-famous Lempuyang Temple is the spot where you will have likely seen those jaw-dropping shots of the Gates of Heaven – with Mount Agung perfectly framed in the background.

This is one of the most photographed and iconic Bali landmarks – so be warned that is it busy and extremely touristy and much like everywhere in Bali, it is worth getting there very early in the morning.

Instagram aside, this Balinese Hindu temple is a place of deep spiritual significance.

Watch out for some of the scams through and the ‘lake reflection’ photo, there is no lake and this is a camera trick that the touts use. Despite the crowds, the Gate of Heaven definitely needs to be on your Bali Bucket list.

CHECK AVAILABILITY: the full day Instagram highlights tour of the Gates of Heaven

4. Walk the Tegallalang Rice Terrace

The Tegallalang Rice Terrace is the iconic rice paddies near Ubud that are a must-see and one of the ultimate Bali bucket list activities. 

A beautiful iconic site of cascading rice paddies that you just have to maze through in person and even sit on the famous Bali swing for a photoshoot and different perspective. The photos do not do this place justice.

Top tip – Wear comfy shoes. You will rack up a lot of steps and flip-flops just won’t cut it. 

5. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud

Wander through this lush forest and encounter hundreds of playful monkeys at this tourist favourite. You can book a guided tour with your ticket price.

I should warn you the monkeys can be terrifying if this is your first encounter with them – the monkeys look cute and friendly but they will aggressively take anything you have on you or in your pockets. One tried to steal a bottle of water out of my bag, so I would say it’s best to admire them from a distance. This is a very unique experience though.

6. Visit Tirta Empul Temple

Experience Bali’s spiritual side by visiting Tirta Empul; a temple where locals perform purification rituals in the sacred waters. You’ll see locals and tourists alike, lining up for a dip in the holy waters for a ritual known as melukat to wash away evil spirits and cleanse the body.

You can even participate if you’re up for it – even if you’re just there to soak in the vibes (pun intended), the energy of the place is so palpable, you can’t help but leave feeling refreshed and maybe, just a tad more enlightened. 

7. Walk around Ubud Art Market

There are a few markets in Ubud, but the Ubud Art Market is the largest and my personal favourite. Browse through a variety of traditional arts and crafts, clothing, accessories and souvenirs at this bustling market. It is a great place to pick up some unique Bali keepsakes and bargaining is all part of the fun here; it’s like a dance-off between you and the vendor, and when you nail it, the sense of victory is epic. 

8. Learn How to Surf in Kuta

If you want to learn how to surf, or simply want to try out a new water sport, surfing in Bali is something that needs to be on your Bali bucket list. Whether it is your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, Kuta beach is the perfect place to get your feet wet.. literally! The waves are gentle, and there are plenty of surf schools, whereas Uluwatu is known as the more intermediate surfing destination.

Top tip – I wouldn’t recommend staying in Kuta Bali unless you are there for the party vibe. I made the mistake of spending a few nights there on my first trip to Bali and it is incredibly touristy with no real culture – you won’t experience the true Bali here.

9. Go White Water Rafting 

If you’re an adrenalin junkie, one of the best adventure activities in Bali is to go white water rafting on the Ayung River. 

While it is one of the most exhilarating, crazy, epic things to do in Bali, it is a great way to see the surrounding jungle, where you might see some wildlife as you navigate your way down the river with your fully qualified guide. Depending on the route you take, you’ll often get a chance to jump out and swim or body raft in the calmer parts of the river too. It’s an exciting way to see Bali’s jungle and waterfalls.

CHECK AVAILABILITY: White water rafting adventure on the Ayung River including a buffet lunch

10. Eat at a Warung

Warungs are pretty unique to Indonesia – they are a small roadside family-owned stall or restaurant – predominantly where the locals eat. Food is authentic and cheap – try Balinese dishes like Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng, for as little as 25,000 IDR (around £1.20). Some warungs also serve beer and have live music in the evening – we came across a few in Ubud and the vibe is always lovely and chilled.

11. Indulge a Balinese Spa Day or Two

One must-do experience on your Bali bucket list is to book yourself in for a traditional Balinese massage or spa treatment. I had plenty over my two trips to Bali – as this island is known for its wellness culture. There are countless spas to choose from, and the massages have all been excellent – just avoid the ones in resorts. These are massively overpriced by Bali’s standards.

To give you an idea, expect to pay around £7 for a 60 minute massage – and always remember to tip very well!

Top Tip – If you are in Ubud, INKA Spa is one of the most popular upmarket spas. They are often busy so I advise you to make a booking in advance.

12. Explore the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Jatiluwih Rice Terrace is one of the most iconic rice terraces in Bali; a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning views and peaceful walks. These rice terraces aren’t just ‘for the gram’, they are a critical part of Bali’s culture and livelihood – a dazzling display of community effort, making sure every stalk of rice gets its fair share of water. It’s sustainability and harmony in the most beautiful form! 

13. Eat Your Way Around Bali

This one might be a struggle if you are anything like me – the heat curbs my appetite – but Bali is truly my favourite destination for the food scene alone.

Ubud is known for being cultural, hippie and the vegan capital of Bali and every meal I ate here was outstanding. If you enjoy vegan food, I urge you to take a look at my Ubud restaurant guide – and tell me the food doesn’t look amazing!

14. Practice Yoga

When you are in Bali, do all the yoga and meditation! Many resorts offer complimentary classes and the sunrise class at The Garcia Ubud was one of my favourites during my time here.

Starting your day with an outdoor yoga or meditation session is such a wonderful experience. There are plenty of tranquil retreats to choose from, all surrounded by lush greenery and soothing sounds of nature. Alternatively, The Yoga Barn Ubud is a popular yoga studio in Ubud that offer a variety of (very affordable) class passes to choose from.

15. Qualify As A Yoga Teacher

Bali is huge on holistic culture and so this is one of the best places in the world to do your yoga teacher training, if that is something you are interested in. House of Om and Yoga Barn are two popular places to both practice yoga and train as a yogi, and there are a variety of packages to choose from. Though there is no shortage of places that offer this – particularly in Ubud.

16. Visit Uluwatu Temple

This famous Balinese Hindu temple provides scenic views of the surrounding cliffs and is also an excellent hub of unexpected entertainment – with the monkeys roaming around and a Kecak dance performance at sunset. The temple is perched atop a cliff that overlooks the southwestern shores, making for some incredible views.

17. Relax on the Beaches of Uluwatu

Uluwatu Beach, also known as Blue Point beach is known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches like Padang Padang, Bingin and Dreamland – they also have some of the best surf spots in Bali for those with some surfing experience.

18. Chase Waterfalls

Bali has several stunning waterfalls off the beaten path. Some top ones include Sekumpul Waterfall, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Gitgit Waterfall. Nungnung Waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Bali. And they are all perfect for a refreshing swim or simply to enjoy the natural beauty. The best way to get to them all is by hiring a driver or renting a motorbike.

CHECK AVAILABILITY: A Full Day Bali Waterfall Private Tour – All Inclusive

19. Hang out at a Beach Club

Bali is well know for its extravagant beach clubs – and I’d say you have to experience it at least once! I spent a fabulous day at Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak with friends. Finns Beach Club in Canggu is also a popular hang out to enjoy some great food, drinks and beach vibes.

20. Visit Goa Gajah – The Elephant Cave

Goa Gajah; an ancient archaeological site near Ubud is known for its cave entrance carved with menacing figures and intricate carvings, leading to a quiet sanctuary. It is worth visiting if you like quirky cultural attractions and are interested in the site’s fascinating history as both a Hindu and Buddhist place of worship.

As this is a temple, remember to wear cover your knees and shoulders when visiting. A t-shirt and long trousers/skirt are perfect.

21. Watch the Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple

The Tanah Lot Temple is Bali’s crown jewel; a sea temple perched dramatically on a rock formation surrounded by the ocean. This 16th-century Balinese Hindu temple is easily the most unique temple in Bali and if you only chose one temple to visit during your time here, I would choose this. You can book a guided tour which is always fascinating but ensure to visit at sunset too, the view is stunning.

CHECK AVAILABILITY: A guided tour of Tanah Lot Temple

22. Explore Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is often overlooked by many tourists, but it a small island a 45-minute-long ferry ride away from Bali. Known for their crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, this island makes for the perfect day trip from Bali.

Kelingking beach is the reason many people visit; it’s truly remarkable seeing the extension of the rock formation into azure waters below. Broken Beach and Diamond Beach are well worth visiting too.

CHECK AVAILABILITY: A Bali to Nusa Penida East & West Highlights Full Day Tour (including transfers)

23. Snorkel with manta rays

Your Bali bucket list should definitely include snorkelling with the majestic manta rays in Nusa Penida. This Balinese gem that boasts some of the clearest ocean views, brimming with vibrant coral gardens and an orchestra of marine life and if you hit the travel jackpot, you may be able to swim with manta rays and turtles.

24. Take a Balinese Cooking Class

Indonesian cuisine is fresh, flavoursome, fragrant and delicious – and a cooking class is one of the best ways to enjoy the cuisine and learn some recipes to take home with you. You can learn to cook your favourite dishes such as Gado-Gado, Satay chicken, Nasi Goreng, Mia Goreng ,Rendang and more.

Many cooking classes include a trip to the local market to discover some of the unusual locally grown produce on sale – and you are pretty much always guaranteed to meet some interesting people on the class too.

25. Experience the Nightlife in Seminyak

If nightlife is more your vibe than cookery, then Seminyak is the place to visit.

With an array of stylish bars, restaurants and nightclubs – places like Ku De Ta, Motel Mexicola and La Favela are popular spots. Personally I wouldn’t choose to stay in Seminyak again – I did that on my first trip to Bali but it’s not my vibe any more.

26. Visit Pura Ulun Danu Beratan

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan or Pura Bratan is an iconic water temple. Located on Lake Bratan in the mountains, this is a serene and picturesque spot where the temple seemingly floats on the calm lake, surrounded by misty mountains. 

This temple is a sacred hindu shrine that pays homage to the goddess of the lake and rivers. Stroll through the complex and soak up the tranquil ambience, the spiritual oasis, lush gardens and mountains.

27. Have a flower bath 

Now this one isn’t for me because quite frankly, I don’t see the point of it. The locals say it is the ultimate way to soak in the island’s natural beauty, and so if a flower bath is your vibe I would add it to your Bali bucket list – so many people enjoy them and I am pretty sure they originated here in Bali. 

Your resort can arrange one for you for you, you can book them at a spa or have them as an add on treatment to a massage or facial.

28. Visit Lombok

You’d be surprised at how many people don’t realise there is so much more to Indonesia than Bali alone. Lombok is Bali’s overlooked neighbour to the east of the island, far less touristy with a rich culture. 

I took the Ekajaya fast boat from Padang Bai to Senggigi and spent about 5 nights here, splitting my time between a vegan yoga retreat, two nights in a boutique hotel and a day trip to The Gili Islands. I could have easily spent longer in Kuta Lombok (very different to Kuta Bali) so don’t get the two confused.

This is where I would spend more time on my next trip to Indonesia.

29. Visit The Sacred Bat Cave Of Goa Lawah

If you’re looking for a unique Bali bucket list idea, it doesn’t get much weirder than the Bat Cave of Goa Lawah. This isn’t just an ordinary bat cave (whatever that even is) – this is actually a temple swarming with thousands of bats. Locals believe the bats are guardians of the temple, protecting it against evil spirits. 

It doesn’t get more unique than this to be honest – take some photos, soak up the ambiance, and maybe learn a thing or two about bat conservation while you’re at it. Also remember that this is a scared site, so be sure to act as though you would in an ordinary temple. 

30. Shop at the wonderful boutiques in Ubud

Shopping isn’t something that is necessarily on my radar when I travel. I’m not one for collecting souvenirs as, let’s be honest, they just add to the clutter in our homes and eventually end up in charity shops. Ubud however blew me away with all the boutique shops on offer – yes, the markets are great, but you can really see the difference in quality of the pure linen and cotton clothing. 

I bought lots of jewellery in Blink by Kapal Laut; they have multiple shops around Bali. I also bought some linen clothing, from trousers to a fab duster jacket – my favourite boutique was BoTree (they have two stores in Ubud). Be warned, that the clothing prices are not cheap – in most instances, you are paying more than you would on the high street in the UK, but you can see and feel the quality and I was happy to invest in some unique pieces.

31. Make your own silver jewellery 

Bali is known for its rich silversmith culture jewellery; the complex designs, precise craftsmanship and spiritual meaning. All of which reflect the island’s distinct mix of Hindu and Buddhist traditions and creative past. 

I love a creative adventure – and if this is your bag, it’s definitely one to add to your Bali bucket list. It’s so affordable too!

32. Rent A Luxurious Villa 

This might seem like I am stating the obvious, but regardless of your travel style (solo, backpacker, family or luxe travel) you have to rent a luxurious villa in Bali at least once! 

You won’t find a luxurious and simultaneously affordable villa anywhere else in the world. It feels like unlocking VIP access to a lifestyle that most of us only drool over on social media. Here in Bali, you can live the lavish life, sipping cocktails by your own private pool and feel like royalty without an eye-watering price tag hanging over your head.

We stayed at Rumah Dadong in Ubud; a wonderful privately owned villa and the couple couldn’t have been more warm and welcoming. They helped us purchase a SIM card (these were the days before eSIMs were around), brought us a freshly cooked breakfast every morning to order, had our clothes laundered for us and provided meals as room service from nearby restaurants too. Our total bill at the end of our stay was something crazy like £25 – though this was 7 years ago.

Add this to your Bali bucket list immediately!

33. Attend a Balinese Dance Performance

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Bali by watching a traditional dance performance like the Barong Dance, Legong Dance (one of the most popular things to do in Ubud), or Kecak Dance, often held at temples or cultural centres. You may need to buy tickets for some of these in advance as they are popular.

34. Visit Melasti Beach

This Bali bucket list idea came from somebody I met at a wedding in Bali recently – she lives in Seminyak and assures me that is one of the most underrated things to do in Bali. 

If you are looking for a beautiful, lesser-known beach with golden sands and turquoise waters, then Melasti Beach on the southern shore is the place to visit. Sadly I didn’t have time on my visit, but I hear this beach is perfect for a swim with incredible views of the surrounding limestone cliffs.

You can even book tickets to a Kekac dance show on Melasti Beach.

35. Hop Over To The Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a perfect addition to any Bali Bucket List – and a short boat ride away from Bali. These three tiny islands are the epitome of paradise, each with it’s own unique vibe.

There is no airport on the Gili islands, so you have to get there by boat which is easy to do from Bali as there are plenty of options. I took a private boat over from Lombok and though it was pretty rocky, the sea sickness with worth it when I was basking in the idyllic island escape of the Gili Islands.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan, or as the cool kids call it, Gili T is the largest of the trio. Known as the party island, it is very developed and touristy – I chose not to visit this island for that reason alone. If you choose to stay on one of the islands, this one has the most variety of hotels that are somewhere in the middle of guest houses and hostels and luxury resorts. You can book a speed boat from Bali to Gili T.

Gili Meno

Gili Meno is also known as the honeymoon island. The least developed of the three and is all about the chilled vibes of doing nothing – perfect for those seeking tranquility or a romantic getaway. You can snorkel with the underwater statues here – though if you ask me, that wasn’t a great snorkelling experience. Far too crowded with tourists literally swimming on top of one another – almost kicking each other in the faces with those large flippers. The statues are man-made and not that impressive if you ask me – personally, I’d much rather see natural beauty.

Gili Air

Gili Air was my favourite island; the perfect mix of its two neighbours. It has a laid-back vibe, great restaurants, plenty of places to stay, and lots of nightlife to keep you entertained without the full-on party scene of Gili T. Most importantly, the snorkelling here was my favourite – I got to swim with turtles again and loved every minute of it! Gili Air is your go-to island for the authentic island lifestyle – just think yoga at sunrise, hammock naps, sipping on a Bintang watching the waves crashing on the beach and of course, all the marine life!

The best thing about travelling in Bali is that you can go as budget friendly or as luxe as you want. With guest houses costing as little as £10/night to affordable 5 star luxury villas and resorts, you can very easily live the high life if you want to.

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