Skye Gilkeson

The Hubby, Andrew, and our daughter enjoying our Bali hotel pool. © Skye Gilkeson

50+ of the Best Things to Do in Bali with Kids

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia for families, Bali promises an action-packed family holiday.

Kids of all ages will love their time on the island.

Whether they are spending the day at a beach, relaxing in the resort pool, or doing one of the many Bali adventure activities on offer, Bali is somewhere families return to again and again.

1. Spend the Morning at Waterbom Bali

One of the best things to do in Bali with kids, small children, and adults alike will love the water slides at Waterbom Bali in Kuta

Waterbom is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm (except Nyepi).

Try to set aside a full day for Waterbom, as there really is a lot to keep you entertained.

The best time to visit is of course from opening until lunchtime or during the afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun.

Also, remember not to book a big night out with the kids after a visit to this water park as they should be pretty tired after a long day in the Bali heat.

Click to Buy Tickets to Waterbom Park Bali

2. Go to the Bali Bird Park

The Bali Bird Park is home to 1300 birds from 250 species. Wander the park, pose with a macaw, or watch a live show.

You may also get to see a Komodo Dragon during your visit.

The Bali Bird Park is about 25 minutes from Ubud, Sanur, or Denpasar and about 50 minutes from Seminyak, Canggu, or Nusa Dua.

The park is open daily from 9 am to 5 30 pm. Tickets are about AUD$42($US27.50 each) and you’ll need about 2 to 3 hours to explore.

Click to Buy Bali Bird Park Tickets

3. Try Some Fun Water Sports

Spending the day trying out different water sports is a fun activity for the whole family.

Nusa Dua Water Sports activities range from jet skiing to parasailing and snorkeling

Click to Book Your Water Sports Package

4. Visit the Kuta Art Market

No trip to the island is complete without a visit to at least one Bali market. The Kuta Art Market is pretty iconic.

It’s a great place to wander around and pick up some Bali souvenirs.

This is also the best way to practice your haggling skills and bargain the price down.

Open 7 am to 8 pm.

5. Do a Seminyak Eat Street Food Tour

Feast on Bali’s best street food with a Seminyak Eat Street tour.

Try a traditional Soto Ayam, Babi Guling, and Joss Milk (a local energy drink) among other local favorites while learning about Indonesian food traditions and the influences from the rest of the region.

This is a nighttime tour so would best suit families with older children or teens (children under 6 not permitted).

There are also no ‘kids meals’ provided so they will have to have an adventurous palette.

Click to Book a Seminyak Eat Street Tour

Capturing the sunset at Tanah Lot is a Bali must-do. Via Unsplash

6. Experience an Iconic Tanah Lot Sunset

You’ll need to plan your visit to Tanah Lot as it will take about half a day including the drive and exploring.

Tanah Lot is about an hour’s drive from Ubud or 1.5 hours from Kuta. You’ll want to spend 1 – 2 hours there.

Tanah Lot is open from 7 am to 5 pm ever y day. Foreigners cannot enter the temple itself. But, most enjoy visiting the temple at dusk to capture an iconic Tanah Lot sunset photo.

If you are doing a sunset tour or visit, book into one of these Canggu restaurants or a beach club for dinner afterward.

The sun sets at about 6 pm in Bali, so you should get the kids to dinner by about 7. 30 pm.

Click to Book a Tanah Lot Tour

7. Spend the Day at a Bali Day Spa

Day spas are synonymous with the relaxing family holidays offered in Bali.

No matter what part of the island you stay on you will be able to find a great Bali day spa to spend a morning.

We love booking into a day spa on a rainy afternoon. It’s a lovely way to spend some time relaxing and you don’t feel like you are missing any of the outdoor activities Bali has to offer.

Some popular Bali day spas are:

• Bodyworks in Seminyak (read our full guide on Things to do in Seminyak)
• Gold Dust, Tonic, and Amo Spa in Canggu (read more on things to do in Canggu)
• Spa at Fivelements in Ubud (read our full guide on things to do in Ubud Bali)

8. Do a Balinese Cooking Course

There are so many ways to do a cooking course in Bali. Most hotels offer adds ons like an onsite cooking course.

There are also lots of half-day tours or full-day tours that include Balinese cooking courses.

Click to Book a Balinese Cooking Course

9. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Visitors to the Ubud Monkey Forest walk a pathway through the 30-acre forest to view the four temples on-site.

They include Pura Dalem or a temple to worship Lord Shiva, Holy Water Temple, and Cremation Temples.

They also see the statues, and of course, see some of the more than 600 monkeys that live in the monkey forest.

The monkeys in the monkey forest are not shy. They will and do climb on visitors (one of the reasons this isn’t my favorite tourist activity).

There are specific guidelines outlined on the Sanctuary website to follow when interacting with the monkeys.

I wouldn’t recommend you to visit the park with young children.

Click to Book Tickets to the Ubud Monkey Forest

A cheeky star at the Ubud Monkey Sanctuary. © Skye Gilkeson

10. Visit the Ubud Art Market

The Ubud Art Market is a fun family activity in the Ubud town center. The permanent market is the perfect place to buy a few Bali souvenirs.

Visit one of Ubud’s great coffee shops or healthy cafes afterward for afternoon tea out of the humidity.

The Ubud Art Market is open from 10 am to 5 pm most days.

11. Watch an Ubud Palace Legong Dance Performance

Once the residence of the royal family, the Ubud Palace hosts dance performances on its grounds nightly.

A wonderful thing to do with kids in Ubud, the cultural performances are beautiful and entertaining.

Legong and Barong dances are held on different nights with all shows scheduled to start at around 7.30 pm.

Tickets are about IDR 100,000 each.

Make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes early to get a seat as they get very busy during peak season.

12. Try Some Tasty Babi Guling

Try traditional Babi Guling or suckling pig. One of the best-known Bali street food options, the slow-roasted pig is served at some street food restaurants and warungs.

It is also made by Balinese locals for special occasions or gatherings.

If you are in Ubud, the most convenient place to try Babi Guling is at Warung Ibu Oka on Jalan Tegal Sari.

This is not a fine dining experience. You will be eating outside with the locals. Expect a plate of suckling pork with vegetables, sides, and sauces.

Better yet, ask the locals where they recommend you try Babi Guling in a more traditional (less touristy) setting.

13. Go White Water Rafting in Ubud

Older children might like to go white water rafting. I was very pumped up to try white water rafting while visiting Ubud. 

While it wasn’t completely still, there weren’t many rapids to speak of which could make it a great family activity in Ubud.

Spending the morning rafting down the famous Ayung River in Ubud is such a great way to experience Bali in a whole new and exciting way.

I went with Mega Rafting but there are a number of companies that offer white water rafting tours in Ubud.

Click to Book a White Water Rafting Tour in Ubud

White water rafting in Ubud is a super fun family activity in Bali. © Skye Gilkeson

14. Take a Bali VW Tour

A VW tour was a super fun way to get around Bali.

I was traveling with a group from Kuta to Bali, so we drove in convoy through the busy streets of Kuta and watched as the scenery changed, becoming awash with green as we made our way to the jungle in Ubud.

This is a super fun thing to do in Bali with kids who don’t need car seats (so about 7 years and up). Children under 2 aren’t permitted.

There are full-day tours that will take you up to Mount Batur and through local villages.

Click to Book a Bali VW Tour

15. Do a Bali Yoga Class

Bali yoga classes are the stuff of yogi dreams. From the whimsical setting of Desa Seni in Seminyak to flows on the cliffs in Uluwatu, and classes at the iconic Yoga Barn in Ubud. There is a setting to roll out your mat that will suit any yoga starter.

While a Bali yoga class probably wouldn’t be suitable for young kids, older children would definitely enjoy the experience.

Make sure you call the studio you are hoping to drop into first to enquire about any age minimums.

For those staying at family-friendly Bali hotels, there are often very inclusive classes scheduled for the morning.

You could always consider booking a private yoga class for the whole family with a local instructor too.

Here are 5 Bali Yoga Studios We Love

16. Take a Scenic Bali Cycling Tour

A Bali cycling tour will be a highlight of any family trip to Bali.

We did a downhill bike tour in Bali from Ubud.

Starting our day by drinking coffee with a view over Mount Batur we wound our way around through local villages, and rice fields and enjoyed a traditional Balinese lunch.

This type of tour would suit families with kids from about 10 years and up.

The cycling itself is not difficult and mostly downhill.

But, there were sections (like winding through the dirt roads behind villages or navigating the rice paddies that were a little tricky.

Click to Book a Bali Downhill Cycling Tour

A VW tour in Bali is a unique thing to do when visiting the island. © Skye Gilkeson

17. Visit a Bali Tourism Village

One of the best things to do in Bali with kids has to be to visit a Bali ‘tourism village’.

While a trip to Bali with kids can often mean time spent in waterparks, resorts, and restaurants, visiting a local village is a unique way to experience the Balinese culture.

A few of the ‘tourism villages’ in Bali are:

• Tenganan Pegringsingan Tourism Village (East Bali)
• Carangsari Village (Ubud)
• Mas Wood Carving Village (near Ubud)

Hire a private driver and visit some of the small tourist villages or book a full tour.

Expect to pay a donation on entry to the villages.

It is important to ensure you remain respectful of the village locals and their customs so please remember to dress modestly too.

And, don’t forget to buy some of their wares or souvenirs to support the village.

Click to Book a Private Driver in Bali

18. Tour the Green School Ubud Campus

Fascinated by the award-winning Green School in Ubud?

Why not take a tour and let the kids see the differences between this amazing open-air, bamboo-constructed campus and their own schools back home?

Warning: your kids may want to relocate to Bali once they’ve seen this wonderful campus up close.

For those interested in a more sustainable model of architecture, this offers a bit of an educational experience too.

Bookings for Green School Tours require bookings and aren’t offered year-round. So, contact their office directly when planning your family trip to Bali to secure a spot.

The campus gets very humid so dress accordingly and take hats and water bottles.

This tour isn’t suitable for prams or people with mobility restrictions.

Contact the Green School Ubud

19. Do a Mount Batur Sunrise Hike

If you are visiting Bali with kids who are a bit older, a Mount Batur sunrise hike is an amazing family activity.

This hike is not for the unfit or for small children. You will start hiking in the dark to make it to the viewing point at the sunrise breaks.

So, if you are a fit family with teenagers this could be the perfect Bali activity.

There are lots of operators offering Mount Batur sunrise hikes – some in combination with hot springs visits or breakfast.

Click to Book a Mount Batur Sunrise Hike Tour

Doing a Mount Batur Sunrise Hike is Iconic Bali. Hugo Villegas via Unsplash

20. Do an Instagram Photo Tour

Want to build up your Bali Instagram highlight reel?

Book a Bali photography tour. You can tick off all of those must-visit Bali sites and snap away.

This full-day Bali tour is a great way to cover a lot of Bali tourist sites very quickly if you only have a few days on the island.

Expect to cover some of Bali’s best Instagram spots like Lempuyang Temple the Gates of Heaven and the Inst-famous Jungle Swing.

This tour would suit pre-teens and above as there is a lot of walking and some rocky terrain.

Click to Book an Instagram Photo Tour

21. Learn to Surf in Bali

A haven for surfers from around the world Bali welcomes beginner to expert board riders.

There are many places to learn to surf in Bali.

Padang Padang Beach right (up the coast from Uluwatu), Kuta, and Canggu are some of the best places to learn to surf.

But, there are surf schools and surf camps in Bali all over the island.

This is one of the best things to do in Bali with kids who can swim confidently.

The whole family can get involved. Book a group class or a private surf lesson just for your family.

Spend the morning in the surf and the afternoon recovering at one of Bali’s beach clubs.

Click to Book a Surf Lesson in Bali

22. Visit Some Incredible Bali Waterfalls

Visit some of Bali’s famous waterfalls for an adventurous day out in Bali with kids.

Whether you do a mini-waterfall tour with a private guide or add on a visit to one of two of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls, this really is a lovely way to see a different side of Bali.

These are a few of the most popular Bali waterfalls to visit:

Gitgit Waterfall

Gitgit waterfall is probably the most famous Bali waterfall.

It takes about 2 hours to get to Gitgit waterfall from Seminyak, so get on the road early to beat the crowds. This is a popular tourist attraction.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall is in Tegenungan Kemenuh village, south of Ubud, and is often added to any Ubud tour itinerary (or request it).

It costs a couple of dollars to enter and extra for lockers, toilets, and parking.

They are open from 6.30 am til 6 pm.

Try to visit first thing in the morning or early evening to avoid the harsh sun and the crowds. These are one of the busiest waterfalls in Bali.

There are almost 200 steps to climb at this waterfall, so this is an activity to fit, mobile kids.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

About an hour from Sanur or just over an hour from Ubud, Tukad Cepung Waterfall is in East Bali.

A unique cave-style waterfall, book a day tour to visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall.

If you are staying in Sanur, you could ask to visit the Tegenungan Waterfall on the way through as well.

This Bali day tour includes a visit to an Insta-famous Bali Swing, rice terraces, a tourist village, and a coffee plantation as well. So, it’s a good way to tick off some Bali must-dos in a day if you are short on time.

Click to Book a Tour to See Bali Waterfalls

23. Spend the Day at a Bali Beach Club

Bali Beach clubs have come a long way in the last couple of decades.

They are now highly curated mega catering to the entire family. You can safely plan to spend an entire day at a Bali beach club. 

Many have pools, dining, bars, and endless entertainment options for both adults and kids.

Read Our Guide to the Best Beach Clubs in Bali

Book in private family yoga class to get into the Bali wellness spirit. © Mary Tilson

24. Go Snorkelling off the Nearby Islands

The dry season in Bali (May to October) offers calmer waters for snorkeling and diving.

If you have the time in your Bali itinerary, consider a day trip to Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan to snorkel.

Click to Book a Snorkeling Day Trip from Bali

25. See a Devdan Show 

Another great cultural activity to do on your Bali family vacation is to see a Devdan Show.

A fun way for older children to experience the Balinese culture, a Devdan Show is a live stage performance.

You can see a Devdan show at the Nusa Dua Theatre a few nights a week.

Tickets include complimentary transfers to the show from Nusa Dua.

Click to Book Devdan Show Tickets

26. Visit the Bali Safari Park

Showcasing more than 1000 animals, if you like animal parks, this may be something you are keen to explore.

Visitors can get up close to elephants, tigers, and more than 120 species of animals.

The park also offers a cultural Agung Show.

Buy Tickets to the Bali Safari Park

27. Get Wet at Splash Waterpark

Splash Waterpark at Finns Recreation Club in Canggu is filled with water slides, an aqua playground, and amenities to fill your family’s day.

With a designated Splash playground for young children and plenty of slightly hairier slides for older children and adults, there is something to keep the whole family entertained.

Swim vests can be hired for the day and towels and sun loungers are included in your ticket.

Covered cabanas and days beds can be booked at an extra cost.

Buy Tickets to Splash Waterpark

28. Swim with Manta Rays

Get up close and personal on a swim with Manta Rays. The majestic mantas can be found all year round in Bali.

Book a snorkeling day tour that includes stops at Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan for the best chance at a sighting.

Recommended for children 5 years and older.

Click to Check Pricing for Manta Ray Day Tour

29. Go Trampolining at Bounce Bali

One of the best things to do in Bali on a rainy day, Bounce Bali is an indoor trampoline center elevated.

Located inside Finn’s Recreation Club, Bounce is also air conditioned should you need to cool off after a morning in the Bali humidity.

Open 10 am to 8 pm Sunday to Thursday and 10 am to 9 pm Friday and Saturday.

Book a Jumping Pass for Bounce Bali

30. Go Horse Riding

There are so many options for horse riding in Bali, these days. From sunrise to sunset rides, beach or mountain, there are Bali horse riding tours aplenty.

However, if your kids aren’t proficient riders, start with a riding lesson. This is a truly unique thing to do in Bali with kids.

The Bali Equestrian Centre is a world-class facility that offers private lessons and group lessons, pony rides, and even pony riding camps for children.

31. Attend the Bali Kite Festival

If you are visiting Bali in August, add the Bali Kite Festival to your itinerary.

This annual celebration sees hundreds of giant kites take to the sky above the east coast of Padanggalak, just north of Sanur.

There are a number of events including local youth competitions as part of the Bali Kite Festival.

But, the main days are the 26th to the 28t of August as part of the Sanur Village Festival.

The beloved spectacle is held annually with kite-flying a tradition to thank the Gods for a rich harvest.

This is absolutely one of the most unique things you can do in Bali and the kids will love it.

32. Let the Kids Get Their Hair Braided

Is there anything that screams ‘Bali holiday’ more than kids with their hair braided?

There are little braiding stalls at most markets and plenty of hawkers around offering their braiding services.

The prices vary and may depend on how good your negotiating skills are.

But, if you think your kids can sit still long enough, this is always a favorite Bali activity for kids.

33. Go Ten Pin Bowling

A great idea when it rains in Bali, take the whole family bowling.

Located at Finns Recreation Club in Canggu, book a lane at Strike Ten Pin Bowling.

For about IDR95,000 per person, enjoy a little healthy competition and some snacks afterward. Suitable for ages 3 and up.

34. Go Shopping at the Factory Outlets

If your teenagers are mad for surfwear and keen to go shopping, head to the Bali factory outlets for some affordable retail therapy.

There are a number of shopping outlets in Bali, from Kuta to Seminyak, Ubud, Legian, and Denpasar.

You’ll find brands like Nike, Levis, Rip Curk, Oakley, and 69 Slam (my hubby’s favorite board shorts).

Check with your hotel for the outlets closest to your hotel. Then, if you are really keen you could still book a driver for a morning of shopping.

35. Spend the day at a Kids Club

I highly recommend you choose a family resort in Bali with a kids club. I mention a few here.

The beauty of visiting Bali with kids is that many hotels cater to children as well as adults, so kids’ clubs are part of the package.

With anything from in-house splash parks to arts, crafts, and cultural activities, there is so much to entertain young children at a kids club during their holiday.

This will leave you more time to explore the local area or check in to a spa for some time out.

36. Eat Fish on Jimbaran Beach

Eating with your feet in the sand on Jimbaran Beach is a Bali must-do for first-timers.

Jimbaran Beach is about a 20-minute drive from Kuta or Seminyak (depending on traffic).

The Jimbaran Beach cafes all sit on the sand along the beach with outdoor tables on the sand so visitors can eat right at the water’s edge.

You will go and choose your fresh fish or seafood and they will cook it for you right then and there and serve it up.

Enjoy your meal as the sun sets and the kids can play on the sand afterward.

37. Enjoy a Kecak Show at the Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple or Pura Luhur Uluwatu is one of the most important Balinese temples.

The sea temple sits on a cliff above a 70-meter drop to the beach and ocean below.

The Balinese Hindus believe that the powers of the Hindu Trinity are all present here.

Said to have been built by a Majapahit monk, it was later expanded and is now a popular tourist spot in Uluwatu.

A cliff pathway leads to the temple, so be mindful of this if you are considering bringing young children.

You will also encounter monkeys, so leave any valuables or food in the car.

The entrance fee to the Uluwatu Temple is about IDR 30,000 per person for adults and IDR 15,000 for children.

The best time to visit is in the afternoon, just before sundown.

A guide is recommended as organizing transport to and from Uluwatu can be tricky.

Book an afternoon tour where you can watch an incredible Balinese Kecak and Fire Dance show with the stunning Uluwatu sunset as a backdrop.

The Uluwatu Temple is open daily from 8 am to 7 pm.

Book Tickets for the Balinese Kecak and Fire Dance Show

Read Next | How to Plan the Perfect Family Trip to Bali

A Balinese cultural show is a must while you’re on the island. © Skye Gilkeson

38. Learn Balinese Dance

Another fun thing to do in Bali if it’s raining is to learn Balinese Dance. While there might be a few giggles and some challenging choreography for some, this is a great way for the family to immerse themselves in the culture together.

The Yoga Barn in Ubud offers Balinese dance classes on Monday evenings.

The ARMA Museum and Resort offers 2-hour long classes (as well as many other cultural activities).

39. Go Boarding at the Bali Wake Park

Head to the state-of-the-art Cable Park Lake for a day of fun out on the water.

One of the best things to do in Bali for teens, Bali Wake Park has a full menu of water activities to suit all levels.

When it comes to boarding there is wakeboarding, kneeboarding, waterskiing, and skurfing on the cables which have been designed to cater to kids and beginners.

There is also a giant Aqualand fun park with obstacles on the water, a waterfront cafe, and a bar with an infinity pool.

So, everyone will find a way to relax at the park.

Bali Wake Park is in Benoa, about 15 minutes from Sanur and 20 minutes from Kuta or Seminyak.

It is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Entry is free and then you simply buy your activity tickets at the park.

40. See the Famous Bali Rice Terraces

It’s hard to see an advertisement for Bali without a photo of the stunning green rice terraces included.

They really are a must-see when on the island, especially for those looking for the best photo spots in Bali.

January through March are the best time to visit the Bali rice terraces. This is simply because they are lush and green at the end of the rainy season.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces are the most famous (you’ll recognize them from “Eat, Pray, Love”) and are often very crowded.

Other rice terraces in Bali worth visiting are:

• Jatiluwih rice terraces in Bali’s Tabanan Regency (known as Bali’s rice bowl) are about 2 hours drive from Kuta.
• Rendang rice terraces in East Bali

Be prepared to pay an entrance fee for each of the popular rice terraces.

The easiest way to visit is to book a tour which will usually include seeing the rice terraces and other activities like visiting a coffee plantation or other well-known Bali attractions.

Click to Book a tour of the Bali Rice Terraces

41. Visit the Pura Tirta Empul Water Temple

The Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple is about 3o minutes north of  Ubud, in the village of Manukaya, in central Bali.

This is a sacred site as the Balinese Hindu community believes the water from the natural springs here has been created and blessed by the God Indra. They, therefore, have the potential to purify.

A visit to this incredible complex is definitely a Bali bucket list item which of course means it can get very busy during peak season.

You will need a good hour or more once you reach the temple as the site is expansive and you will likely be greeted by crowds.

The temple is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.

The entrance fee is about IDR 50,000 for an adult and IDR25,000 for a child.

Click to Book a Tour of the Tirta Empul Water Temple

42. Eat Traditional Indonesian Fare at a Warung

Made’s Warung has long been a favorite of ours since we started coming to Bali more than 2 decades ago.

Kids will love an easy Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng, or other simple Indonesian dishes for dinner.

Just make sure you are clear on whether your kids can handle chili, so they can adjust accordingly.

43. Do a Rice Field Walk

If you are visiting Bali with teens who are happy to go out and get active, consider a morning rice field walk.

These walks are one of the best things to do in Ubud if you are staying in the village or nearby.

Work your way through the list or just start with the Sari Organik walk

Sari Organik Walk

Just 10 minutes from the Ubud Art Market, the Sari Organik walk is a great activity to do in the morning for breakfast before wandering the markets.

The walk is about 3.5 kilometers long and takes about an hour, depending on whether you stop at any of the cute restaurants (like the namesake Sari Organik) along the way.

The Penanstenan Rice Field Walk

About 4 kilometers out of Ubud you’ll find Penanstenan village. This walk starts at the north end of the village and is a quieter walk without the warungs and cafes along the Sari walk.

It finishes at Terracotta Restaurant at Mathis Retreat Ubud where you can enjoy lunch with a striking view over the rice terraces.

Balinese rice field walks are a great way to get the family moving and explore local villages. © Skye Gilkeson

44. Visit the Ubud Water Palace

The Saraswati Palace or Ubud Water Palace is located in the heart of Ubud (behind Starbucks).

A popular Instagram photo spot in Ubud, many will recognize the stunning stonework rising up either side of the temple gates.

With ponds of pink lotus flowers on either side of the entry pathway, it creates a perfectly framed photo.

The best time to visit is in the evening when it is cooler and there is a Balinese dance performance (most nights except Friday).

Make sure you dress appropriately for the palace with covered knees and shoulders.

Entry to the palace grounds is free. The dance performance will cost extra and you just need to buy your tickets there.

45. Learn to Scuba Dive

If you are traveling with teenagers, why not get your Padi accreditation as a family in an idyllic location?

There are 2 and 3-day diving courses in Bali and of course some amazing scuba diving itineraries for those families that are already accredited.

Book a PADI Diving Course in Bali

46. Have a Floating Breakfast

Do as the influencers do and experience a Bali floating breakfast.

Many will remember those first pictures of the Bali crowd floating a colorful breakfast tray out to the edge of their jungle infinity pool.

Well, now it seems everyone is getting in on the act. Many Bali luxury hotels offer a floating breakfast at an extra cost.

But, if yours doesn’t, book one at the Padma Resort Ubud for about IDR 500,000++ per couple.

47. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Elevate your Bali family holiday, quite literally, by taking a hot air balloon ride.

Drift 50 meters above the world-famous rice terraces, experiencing Bali in a whole new way.

Acting as a movable viewing point, the balloon remains tethered to the ground as you take in the beauty of the surroundings all the way to Mount Agung.

The balloon is located at the Tanah Gajah resort.

Your ticket includes a meal or snack. But, consider doing the breakfast flight and booking lunch at The Tempayan, with panoramic views over the resort’s rice paddies.

Click to Book a Bali Hot Air Balloon Ride

48. Take a Day Trip to Kintamani

Take a  day trip to Kintamani and 4WD across the lava fields of the 1843 and 1963 volcanic eruptions.

After being surrounded by the frozen lava flows you’ll be able to relax in the Batur Hot Springs before returning down the mountain.

This tour isn’t suitable for very young children or pregnant women.

Book a 4WD Volcano Tour

49. Stay in a Treehouse in the Ubud Jungle

Suitable for a small family with an older child, live out your Swiss Family Robinson fantasy by staying in a luxury treehouse.

The Tree House at Bambu Indah sits nestled in the branches of two Banyan trees, beautifully crafted from bamboo.

Go to sleep with the sounds of the jungle and Ayung River moving below and wake to rice fields and Mount Batukaru (Bali’s second-highest peak) off in the distance.

For families of four, there is the Riverbend residence with a private plunge pool and copper tub.

Click to view Rooms at Bambu Indah Ubud

50. Enjoy Sundowners on the Beach

Something you must do in Bali is enjoy sundowners on a Bali beach.

Seminyak, Kuta, and Canggu all offer a lively night-time ambiance to watch the sunset.

Whether you book a table at one of the fancier beach clubs or grab a beanbag in the sand at a casual beach bar, this is the perfect way to end the day on the island.

51. Book a Bali Family Photo Shoot

There’s no better time to update your family photo album than when you are happy and relaxed on holiday.

Bali is the ideal place for a family photo shoot with such varied backdrops available; from the beach to the jungle.

Book a Private Family Photo Shoot

Here are more Bali travel guides to help you plan your trip:

How to Plan the Perfect Family Trip to Bali 

Things to do in Ubud Bali

Where to Find the Best Coffee in Bali

A Local’s Guide to Canggu

Where to Eat in Seminyak

The Best Beach Clubs in Bali

Sundowners on the beach in Bali are the perfect way to end the day with the family. © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

Beautiful beaches, interesting culture, and delicious food make a family trip to Bali a must. © Skye Gilkeson

How to Plan the Best Family Trip to Bali

Bali is the ideal family destination. It is a place that offers something for every member of the family.

Planning your Bali itinerary will be easy once you decide exactly which area you want to stay in as a family and which Bali activities you want to do.

We hope to help you plan the best family trip to Bali with this guide. 

How to Get to Bali 

Bali Indonesia is an island (one of the Sunda Islands) in Southeast Asia sitting between Lombok and Java.

Flights from Sydney to Bali take about 6.5 hours.

Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Qantas are a few of the popular airlines that fly from Australia to Bali.

For those traveling to Bali from the UK, Emirates offers the fastest service flying via Dubai and direct from Dubai to Denpasar.

Jakarta to Bali takes just under 2 hours on a plane with many flights running during the day.

Click to Search Airfares to Bali

The Best Time to Visit Bali

The dry season in Bali is from April to October.

The best time to visit Bali is between May and August with the high season in Bali considered April to August.

The island gets particularly busy during the Australian school holidays in April and June/July, Christmas, and New Year.

The wet season in Bali is from November to March. January to March is the low season in Bali. If you can put up with late afternoon showers (or more) every day, this is definitely the cheapest time to visit the island.

Check that your travel dates don’t fall during any of the public holidays in Indonesia or you may be restricted in what you can do around the island.

How Long Should You Stay in Bali?

Ideally, a family trip to Bali should be 7 to 10 days, or longer.

This gives you enough time to stay in one or two different parts of Bali. It will also give you and your kids time to get over any jet lag from the journey over.

The great thing about Bali is you can get a feel for Bali in 3-4 days if you only have time for a short trip.

But I would highly recommend booking one, very central, family resort in Bali for that time.

Also, hire a driver or book Bali day tours so you can explore stress-free and get the most out of your family holiday.

If you are coming from the United States or Europe or somewhere a bit further away, try to give yourself time to spend a little longer as there are so many things to do in Bali.

Which Part of Bali is Best For Families?

The island of Bali has a destination that will appeal to every type of family. There are busy areas overflowing with crowds, restaurants, shopping, and tourist attractions. 

But, there are also off-the-beaten-track villages or villa resorts where you can switch off and just spend your days on one of Bali’s beautiful beaches with your kids. Of course, there are also places in Bali with a little of both.

You simply need to decide the type of holiday you are planning, consider the age and interests of your kids, and book your Bali accommodation and tours accordingly.

There are a number of different main tourist areas in Bali that are good for families.

Each area offers something unique in terms of activities, setting, and entertainment. I have included a summary of each below.

The best places in Bali for families to stay are Nusa Dua, Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Canggu, Jimbaran Bay, Ubud, Uluwatu, and Sanur.

Nusa Dua

If you are looking for a really relaxed Bali resort holiday, Nusa Dua is a great place.

Nusa Dua is on the southeastern tip of Bali, about 10 to 15 minutes from the airport.

You’ll find large luxury resorts in Nusa Dua that have everything from restaurants, spas, kids’ clubs, shopping, and a gorgeous beach area.

The best part is there’s no need to leave the area if you aren’t up for exploring.

Kuta

Kuta is the busy part, suitable for those planning a family trip to Bali with a good dose of nightlife and daily activities.

The good thing about Kuta is that there are always plenty of things to do for kids and adults. But, be prepared for the crowds.

Legian

Legian is the stretch of the beach north of Kuta stretching to Seminyak. While more expensive than Kuta, Legian is generally more affordable than Seminyak.

Popular with families and surfers alike, it’s a great spot for those looking for a more low-key area than its noisy neighbors.

Legian has some good-value family resorts and great Bali beach clubs to keep you entertained during your stay.

Seminyak

With a good balance of buzz, beach clubs, and great shopping, Seminyak has a little of everything.

This is a great area to stay in on your first time in Bali as it’s right in the center of the action.

Book a hotel near the main road with Seminyak restaurants within reach so you can walk everywhere and avoid having to sit in infamously bad Bali traffic

Canggu

The hipster hub of Bali, Canggu is a popular neighborhood for surfers, digital nomads, and families alike.

Slightly quieter than Kuta or Seminyak there are good local Canggu restaurants and family-friendly beach clubs in this area.

For those who still want to party down after a day spent coffee crawling or surfing during the day, there are some fun bars too.

Jimbaran Bay

Jimbaran Bay is on the west coast of Bali about 20 minutes south of Kuta Beach.

Jimbaran Beach is well-known for its seafood restaurants where guests can choose their own catch and have it cooked in front of them and dine with their toes in the sand.

This area is a bit of a blend of a small local fishing community with a few luxury hotels in the surrounding areas set overlooking the ocean.

Jimbaran is a good place to spend a few days if you want some peace and quiet and to unwind in a resort.

Ubud

Escape to the jungle and the famous rice fields of Ubud.

Often touted as the spiritual center of Bali, nature lovers will also appreciate Ubud.

Ubud offers a calmer family trip to Bali with so many things to do from outdoor excursions to village visits and wildlife experiences.

Ubud also has some of the best hotels in Bali set amidst the trees and rice terraces.

Uluwatu

For some of the best beaches in Bali, with private villa-style resort hotels, Uluwatu is the perfect place to stay in Bali.

If you’re back in Bali for the second time spending some time in the Bukit offers a lovely contrast to the often chaotic Kuta or Seminyak.

Spend your days in your villa pool, book in at one of the best beach clubs in Bali for the day, or enjoy dinner with your private chef with a view over the ocean.

Sanur

For a much quieter family trip to Bali with some local experiences on your doorstep Sanur is a good option.

Sanur is located in southeast Bali. It is the oldest beach resort in Bali and still remains less developed than its busy counterparts on the west coast.

There are a number of Sanur hotels and family villas to call home where you can relax during the day.

Or head out to the local markets, artisanal stores or try your hand at Balinese cooking.

Bali is overflowing with incredible hotels suitable for every family. © Skye Gilkeson

Bali Family Resorts

There are so many family resorts in Bali that it can be overwhelming to choose one to suit all family members.

There are a few factors to take into account when deciding where to stay in Bali.

It is a good idea to answer a few questions to help you narrow down which area to stay at in Bali for your family trip.

Do you need a kids club? Do you want to be able to walk to restaurants and cafes? Do you want an all-inclusive resort in Bali and Do you need privacy or your own pool away from the crowds?

These questions should help you filter down the family resorts that suit your needs.

Some of the Bali family hotels with kids’ clubs are:

• Hard Rock Hotel Bali, Kuta
• Movenpick Resort Jimbaran Bay
• Mandapa Ubud
• Padma Resort Legian

Click to Search Family Hotels in Bali

What to Pack for a Family Trip to Bali

Packing for a family trip to Bali is pretty simple.

You need summer clothes that are comfortable in the humidity like loose maxi dresses, cotton shorts and t-shirts for kids, and comfortable sandals or water shoes.

Here are a few other important things to throw in your suitcase:

• Sunhats
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen (it can be very expensive on the island)
• Deet-free mosquito repellant and Mosquito Repellant patches. Most hotels should have mosquito nets provided too. Dengue fever is present in Bali.
• Pool floatation devices. If your child needs a safety vest for swimming, bring it from home.
• Medications in case the dreaded Bali belly hits (we carry Buscopan, Mintec, Imodium, Kids panadol, and broad-spectrum antibiotics – please seek your own medical advice as this is just our personal travel list.)
• If you are traveling in the rainy or shoulder season make sure you pack raincoats for the kids. Otherwise, you should be able to buy ponchos, umbrellas, or raincoats at the markets.

Click Here to Read Our Baby Packing List

Is the Food in Bali Safe to Eat?

Bali is a food lover’s paradise. With some incredible fine dining, traditional Indonesian fare (like personal favorites Nasi Goreng and Mie Goreng), a huge choice of healthy Bali cafes to high-end bars.

Bali food is great, until in some cases, it’s not. Once upon a time, ‘Bali belly’ was simply par for the course with a trip to Indonesia.

Bali belly can be caused by eating food or drinks contaminated by bacteria.

But, these days there are a few of the best things you can do to try to avoid getting Bali belly:

1. Never drink tap water. Only drink from sealed bottles of water. This includes when brushing your teeth. Also beware of ordering smoothies, juices, and cold drinks that may have water added.
2. There used to be a blanket rule to never order ice too. Most upmarket bars and beach clubs will serve clean ice. I personally still avoid having ice in my drinks.
3. Ensure your food is hot, fresh, and cooked through.
4. Beware street food that isn’t cooked fresh in front of you.
5. Avoid buffets where food may not be fresh or may have been sitting in the heat for extended periods.
6. Avoid any unpasteurized dairy products.

How Much Does a Family Trip to Bali Cost?

Bali has unfortunately become one of the more expensive destinations in South East Asia.

While there is no set cost for a family trip to Bali there are several factors that will impact how much a family trip to Bali will cost:

• Whether you are luxury travelers or budget travelers,
• Where you stay in Bali,
• What is included in your accommodation packages
• What activities you would like to do in Bali? Obviously, the more activities you do outside your resort, the more your Bali holiday will cost.
• Whether you need additional care for young children (always check the age minimum at kids clubs)

How to Save Money on Your Family Trip to Bali

Although Bali can be a more expensive family holiday pre-trip planning is key to keeping your Bali budget in check.

Here are 10 simple ways to save money on your family trip to Bali and eliminate some of the pre-holiday budgeting stress:

1. Choose a centrally located family resort in Bali

A great way to save you on the cost of drivers and you can easily walk to restaurants nearby.

2. Book a package that includes childcare

Although nannies in Bali are inexpensive, booking a Bali hotel with a kids club will save you money on one-off childcare fees and tips.

3. Book a half-board or all-inclusive Bali hotel

Booking a hotel that includes meals and some drinks will ensure you won’t be reaching for your wallet all the time or paying expensive ATM fees or exchange fees. It also means you don’t have to worry about your kids adding unexpected food and drink costs onto the bill.

4. Choose a hotel with a good entertainment offering

The more free entertainment you have at your Bali hotel, the less likely you are to need to take the kids out for additional shows and day trips.

5. Give your Kids a Budget

One of the best parts of a family trip to Bali is being able to go to local shops and the markets together.

If you are traveling with older children or teenagers, give them a budget for the trip, let them manage their own shopping spending, and do their own negotiating. You are giving them some independence, and responsibility and they will learn valuable negotiation and exchange skills.

6. Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate

The beauty of Bali is that it is still very much a place where you can negotiate.

Whether it is a room upgrade with your hotel, a “7 nights for 6” style packages, hotel extras, or a fixed price with your driver, you can negotiate a lot of things while in Bali.

7. Travel in the Shoulder Season

You can save a lot of money on a Bali holiday if you choose to travel in the low season and by avoiding school holiday surge times.

These are also times when you will be able to negotiate directly with hotels and tour operators for discounts.

The trade-off, of course, is that you may be faced with rainier or more humid days.

8. Eat locally

Eating at local warungs will not only allow your family to have a more authentic experience, but you will also save lots of money.

Bali restaurants are incredible. But, they aren’t cheap. So, if you don’t have the budget to take the whole family out to one of the fancy places, save that for a date night.

9. Use an App to Track Your Expenses

If you are good with spreadsheets, you can track your expenses by inputting each cost.

However, apps like TravelSpend or NomadWallet make it easy to track your expenses. Splitwise is a great app for splitting up trip costs within a group.

10. Choose a Bank Card without International Fees

We use WISE travel card as it has limited international transaction fees and reasonable conversion rates.

Things to do in Bali as a Family

There is a seemingly endless list of activities that make Bali family holidays fun.

You will absolutely not cover all of the wonderful family activities on offer on your first visit to Bali.

A few things you must do on your family trip to Bali are:

• The entire family will have a fun morning on the water slides at Waterbom Bali water park.
• Spend the Day at a Bali Beach Club
• Visit the Amazing Uluwatu Temple
• Go shopping at the local markets
• See Mount Batur (an active volcano) in a vintage VW
• Relax in some natural hot springs
• See the cheeky monkeys are the monkey forest
• Visit the famous water temple
• Try some white water rafting
• Experience Balinese culture at a Devdan Show
• Discover new bird species at Bali Bird Park
• Take some sunset photos at Tanah Lot
• Visit a beautiful waterfall or a few

Read our Complete Guide to Things to Do in Bali with Kids

The yellow bridge connects Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, Indonesia. Image by Danny De Groot via Unsplash

Amazing Day Trips from Bali

If this is your first time in Indonesia, you will have an amazing time just exploring the island

But, if you have a little more time or this isn’t your first visit, I encourage you to consider at least a day trip from Bali to one of the neighboring islands.

A few destinations beyond the main island to add to your Bali family itinerary include Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and the Gili Islands.

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is an island off the southeast coast of Bali and a popular choice for a day trip from Bali.

This gorgeous island is the largest of the three “Nusa Islands” that are part of a protected marine park.

Nusa Penida is a lovely place to spend a few days or is an easy island hop for the day. Picture clear blue water, palm trees, and a lush green landscape.

How to Get to Nusa Penida

The easiest way to get to Nusa Penida in a day is to book a day tour. But, if you have more time, jump on a boat from Sanur.

The fast boat ride from Sanur to Nusa Penida takes about 40 minutes.

Book a private tour to take you around for the day.

The landscape on Nusa Penida can be rough with steep terrain. So, make sure you tell your tour guide if you are traveling with small children so they can adjust the itinerary accordingly.

Things to do in Nusa Penida

• See the famed Teletubbies Hill, a viewing point and photo opportunity. Best after the rainy season when it’s green and lush./
• See the Rumah Pohon Tree House
• Go snorkeling
• Visit one of the beautiful beaches in Nusa Penida. While the Insta-famous Kelingking Beach is popular the walk down is not suitable for small children.
• Go swimming with the Manta Rays in Manta Bay.

Click here for Nusa Penida Day Tours

Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan is a small island next to Nusa Penida.

Nusa Lembongan is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you are a keen surfer, want to spend some time seeing the iconic coral reefs by snorkeling or spend some beach time away from the crowds.

How to Get to Nusa Lembongan

Sanur to Nusa Lembongan takes about 40 minutes by fast boat.

Boat tickets generally include transfers to and from your hotel in Bali to the wharf.

Things to do on Nusa Lembongan

• Spend the day snorkeling in the stunning Blue Lagoon on Nusa Ceningan next door.
• Relax at Sandy Bay Beach Club for the day
• Book a tour to see Devil’s Tear, Dream Beach, and Yellow Bridge.
• Enjoy some water sports in the stunning aquamarine waters.

Click Here to Book a Nusa Lembongan Day Tour

The Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are an archipelago of three tiny islands, Gili Trawangan (Gili T), Gili Meno, and Gili Air.

While this cluster of islands is particularly popular with backpackers and travelers looking to party, it also has laid-back appeal for families.

How to get to the Gili Islands

The trip from Bali to the Gili Islands takes anywhere from 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours, depending on which type of boat you choose so it will be a full-day trip if you are just doing a day trip.

Speedboats go from Port Padangbai in southeast Bali directly to Gili Trawangan.

If you are traveling with small children you might prefer one of the larger, slower ferries as the seas can be quite rough on the journey. But, it can become a long journey that way so spend a few nights on the islands if you are able to.

Things to do in the Gili Islands

• Go on a snorkeling day trip. Read about our Gili Islands snorkeling trip here.
• Ride bicycles around the islands.

Click to Book a Speedboat Ticket to the Gili Islands 

The stunning Komodo National Park in Indonesia. © Skye Gilkeson

Incredible Indonesia Destinations Beyond Bali

While Bali is such an easy and fun family destination there are some other incredible places to do in Indonesia to add to your bucket list.

These are a few other areas of Indonesia that are more off the beaten track you should consider for your next trip beyond Bali.

Sulawesi

Sulawesi is an Indonesian island north of Bali and east of Java that offers so much for culturally curious travelers.

From incredible diving and snorkeling to small traditional villages, and authentic local cuisine, this island offers so much for families willing to travel a little deeper into Indonesia.

Read Our Sulawesi Travel Guides

Komodo National Park

Ever dreamt of staying on a traditional Phinisi boat and spending your days diving, swimming, and snorkeling?

Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and should be on your Indonesia travel hit list.

Komodo has some of the most incredible scenery in the country and offers the ultimate diving holiday for keen divers.

Don’t miss a visit to the stunning Pink Beach and Padar Island.

Read our Komodo National Park Guide

Jakarta

For a complete change of pace consider Jakarta.

This city has a frenetic pace and endless things to do to keep you and the family entertained during your visit.

From cultural activities to ritzy shopping malls, street food favorites, and fancy rooftop bars, there’s something for everyone in Jakarta.

Here are 12 Amazing Things to Do in Jakarta

Bali FAQs and Important Travel Information

There are a few really important things to do before you get on the plane to Bali.

From Bali visa requirements to travel insurance and which activities to book, here are a few things you should do before you leave including some common Bali FAQs.

Is Bali Safe For Families?

There’s no denying that Bali has a tragic past so it’s important to check any travel warnings before you leave for Bali.

I strongly recommend you register your travel details with your country’s government site.

In some instances, you may receive any travel warnings in the lead-up or during your trip. It will also make it easier to contact you in the event of an incident while you are in Indonesia.

Each country will have its own government agency with guidelines and up-to-date travel warnings for Indonesia:

• Australians can check Bali travel warnings here.
• Americans can check travel warnings here.
• Indonesia’s Department of Foreign Affairs lists travel requirements, warnings, and emergency contact information on its site here.

While we have personally never felt unsafe in Bali, you need to weigh up the risks and be vigilant and cautious.

There are risks with traveling to any destination, especially with the added responsibility of traveling with kids.

Tourism Statistics for Bali (2025)

While Bali saw a softening in tourist numbers in recent years. The island is very much a popular destination for tourists once again.

Bali aims to attract 6.5 million foreign tourists in 2025.

Here is a quick snapshot of Bali’s tourism numbers for the past year:

• 469,227 foreign tourists arrived in Bali in March 2024. That’s 3% up on the month prior.
• Tourists from Australia dominated foreign tourist arrivals to Bali in March 2023 with a share of 24.28 percent

Bali Visas

Tourists from 90 countries are permitted entry to Bali for up to 30 days for tourist purposes with a visa on arrival.

You can pre-pay your e-Visa on Arrival through the immigration website here.

Beware of the many fake Bali visa sites around.

Both adults and children must have visas for Bali.

Bali Fast Track Service

For those who have the budget consider the Visa Fast Track service in Bali.

A VIP service for an additional cost, passengers are greeted from the plane and fast-tracked through immigration, the Visa on arrival process, and customs.

This will save you valuable time, especially while dealing with tired children off the plane.

Denpasar Aiport also offers a free buggy car service if you don’t have a travel pram and need help transporting your children.

Respect for Indonesian Customs

Bali is cracking down on the behavior of foreign tourists, right now after several incidents of tourists behaving badly.

Bali authorities will soon hand out a ‘Dos’s and Don’ts Card’ for tourists arriving in the country as a reminder of what is acceptable on the island.

Vaccinations for Bali

Check which vaccines you might need before traveling to Indonesia, both to ensure your family trip to Bali goes as seamlessly as possible, but also to ensure you gain entry on arrival.

Currently, visitors to Bali 18 years and older need proof of Covid-19 vaccination (at least 14 days prior to your visit). You must also download the SATUSEHAT app before arrival.

If you are planning on spending time around the well-known stray Bali dogs or visiting the sacred monkey forest or other animal encounters in Bali, your doctor may advise you to consider additional vaccines.

There are some medications that it is not permitted to bring into Bali, including some ADHD medications. You will need to declare those medications on entry.

Get Comprehensive Travel Insurance for Bali

Buy a comprehensive travel insurance policy. You can buy family policies that cover everyone in the family and save you some money.

Make sure you choose coverage for anything you might want to do in Bali with your kids, particularly any adventure activities like white water rafting, quad biking, surfing, scuba diving or even riding a scooter.

You also want to make sure your insurance policy has substantial coverage for Covid-19.

Click here to get World Nomads Travel Insurance Prices

Bali Airport Transfers

You can absolutely go to the desk at the airport and wait for a Bali taxi.

But, you may be split into two or more cars (to fit all your luggage), you will have to carry your own baby seats or boosters and there will definitely be a wait time.

Prebook private transfers from the airport. Why a private transfer?

The last thing you will want to do after getting off a flight into Bali (often late at night), is to wait for other people before getting in a shuttle to your hotel (and possibly stopping at others along the way).

Also, the humidity in Bali can be pretty overwhelming when you jump straight from the intense air conditioning of a plane. So, the faster you get into an air-conditioned van, the better.

So, if you are staying at a hotel there are a few things to check when it comes to Bali airport transfers for families:

• Do you have transfers included?
• Will your transfer be private?
• Are child seats and boosters included or will they cost extra?

If you are staying at a villa, it is likely that you will have a driver included as part of your package. But, don’t assume they will have car seats in the van. Make sure you request them (even at an additional cost).

We have used Bali Baby Hire before and found them to be efficient and good to work with.

We had a private car with a car seat collect us promptly for the transfer from the airport to the hotel and again on our return transfer to Denpasar airport.

Click to Book private Driver in Bali

Animal Experiences in Bali

It’s important to appreciate that regulations regarding animal tourism are different throughout the world.

The exploitation of animals for tourism is common around the world.

While I am not an expert, I encourage you to do your own research before engaging in any animal experiences (where they are removed from their natural habitats in particular), to ensure the best interests of all involved are being considered.

More Bali Travel Guides to Help You Plan Your Trip:

Epic Things to Do in Bali with Kids

A Guide to Things to Do in Ubud Bali

Amazing Things to Do in Canggu

Choosing the Best Beach Club in Bali for Your Visit

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

The gorgeous beach bungalows at Sundays Beach Club Bali invite guests to stay all day. | © Skye Gilkeson

How to Choose the Best Beach Club in Bali

Spending the day at a beach club really is one of the best things you can do in Bali.

Choosing the best beach club in Bali will depend on where you are staying, the amenities you need, your holiday budget, and whether you are travelling to Bali with kids.

24 of the Best Beach Clubs in Bali (2023)

Uluwatu Beach Clubs

The beauty of Uluwatu beach clubs is most offer incredible views and stunning white sandy beaches.

Most are family-friendly, so you can settle in for the entire day with your kids too.

Here are a few of our favourite beach clubs near Uluwatu, Bali.

1. Sundays Beach Club

Sundays Beach Club has a special place in our hearts as we got married at The Ungasan Resort and enjoyed our post-wedding recovery day at Sundays Beach Club on one of Bali’s most beautiful beaches.

Returning recently, it was interesting to see how the club has evolved from the simple beach club it once was.

The private beach club is definitely fancier than back then.

However, it still has the same certain rustic charm, great drinks and good food.

Most importantly, it offers a calm oasis on its own private white sand beach, which is very different from some of the bigger day clubs further north.

Book some beds or a cabana on the beach to save your wait time and ensure you get an umbrella (it can get hot out there).

Entry is via reception at The Ungasan where you’ll follow the stairs and pathways down to their inclinator that carries you to the club on the beach.

Sundays Beach Club entrance fee:

Weekdays – Adult IDR 400,000 | Child 7-12 IDR 200,000 || Weekend – Adult IDR 450,000 | Child 7-12 IDR 250,000

Entry fee includes beach club access, inclinator, towel, wifi, kayaks, snorkelling gear, SUP and credit towards food and beverage.

Pre-booked bungalow package prices are here.

Consider staying at the incredible Ungasan perched on the cliffs above. Click to check prices.

Opening Hours: 10 am to 8 pm

Family-friendly? Yes

 Jalan Pantai Sel. Gau Banjar Wijaya Kusuma, Ungasan

2. El Kabron

El Kabron is one of the most established of Bali’s beach clubs.

It has long been a popular destination for the day on Dreamland Beach.

Spend the day relaxing by the infinity pool surrounded by palm trees in the Hedonism Lounge.

Or, book a prime position to experience one of Uluwatu’s stunning sunsets at its Sunset Theater.

Either way, El Kabron promises good times in this magical Bukit spot.

El Kabron entrance fee: 

There are several packages depending on where you want to base yourself from a sun bed to a lounge or a table in the open-air restaurant. Click here for prices.

Make sure to pre-arrange transport back to your Bali hotel as ride-share services aren’t allowed to collect patrons from the venue.

Opening Hours: Daily, 11 am to 11 pm

Family-friendly? No

Read Next | A Guide to the Best Canggu Restaurants

The stunning clifftop Ulu Cliffhouse in Uluwatu. | Via Ulu Cliffhouse

3. Ulu Cliffhouse

One of the beautiful beach clubs on the Bukit, Ulu Cliffhouse is perched on an iconic Uluwatu cliff top with panoramic views across the ocean below.

Ulu Cliffhouse offers a number of different areas to spend your day relaxing.

Start on a daybed by the 25-metre-long infinity swimming pool, dine at The Cliff Restaurant or venture down the cliff to the Ocean Deck with low-tide access to a private beach.

Ulu also has ticketed special events like world-famous DJs throughout the year.

Ulu is also home to seven boutique suites at  The Clubhouse at Ulu, for those who want to spend a little longer in Uluwatu.

Ulu Cliffhouse entrance fee: Free

Opening Hours: Open daily from 12 pm til late

Family-friendly? Yes, but probably better suited for adults

Jl. Labuan Sait No. 315, Padang-Padang, Bali

4. Roosterfish Beach Club

Rustic and ultra-relaxed Roosterfish is one of the newer Bali beach clubs, offering a chilled-out experience on Pandawa Beach. A quieter part of the island, spend a day swimming, eating and relaxing at Roosterfish, before the crowds catch on.

Roosterfish features a large outdoor pool overlooking the beach, a grassed area with casual seating and cabanas that can be reserved in advance.

They hold a Sunday brunch, “Penguins Love a Bath” from 11 am to 4 pm, every Sunday. A buffet brunch is served, backed by beats from their resident DJ. Tickets are about IDR 499,000++ per person.

A great option for families, there is plenty of room to run around, explore the beach, activities on Sunday and a tailored kids menu for the little ones.

Roosterfish entrance fee: Free. But you may need to pay an entrance fee to Pandawa Beach.

Opening Hours: Daily 8 am to 10 pm

Family-friendly? Yes (and stroller friendly)

JI. Pantai Pandawa, Kutuh, Kuta Selatan

5. Tropical Temptation Beach Club

Formerly Cattamaran Beach Club, Tropical Temptation Beach Club is located on the stunning Melasti Beach, one of the most beautiful Bali beaches.

It’s here you’ll find fine white sand and breathtaking limestone cliffs.

Guests can settle into a spot by the pool, and enjoy the resident DJ, some fresh snacks, pizzas and drinks.

Special offers include bottle service, shisha and even a drone photography service for those looking to, quite literally, elevate their Instagram game.

Tropical Temptation Beach Club entrance fee: Free but reservations are recommended.

Opening Hours: 10 am to 8 pm on weekdays and 10 am to 9 pm on weekends.

Family-friendly? Yes, however, children aren’t allowed in the pool area after 5 pm.

Children are only allowed in the lounge area and must be supervised at all times.

Melasti Beach Jl. Melasti Ungasan, Badung

6. White Rock Beach Club

One of Bali’s newest beach clubs, White Rock Beach Club is also on Melastic Beach in South Bali.

Choose one of their (many) day bed or lounge packages and spend the day between the pool, the ocean and the deliciously global food menu featuring everything from Indonesian favourites like Nasi Goreng to Western comfort food and fresh seafood.

Every Sunday, they hold a market from 3 pm to 8 pm which is perfect for families.

White Rock Beach Club entrance fee: White Rock has a range of daybed and suite packages. Click to see prices.

Opening Hours: Daily, 10 am to 10 pm

Family-friendly? Yes

Melasti Beach, Ungasan

Read Next | 15 Amazing Seminyak Cafes

Azul Beach Club is a treehouse-style beach club in Legian, Bali. | via Azul Beach Club

Legian Beach Clubs

7. Azul Beach Club

As the name suggests, this tree-house-style Azul Beach Club in Legian is thoughtfully decorated in nautical blue hues, bringing the Indian Ocean tones directly in.

Book a table for lunch or dinner or enjoy a dip and refreshing cocktail in the adults-only stunning infinity pool.

The restaurant menu features a range of international and pan-Asian dishes, with vegan and vegetarian options.

Azul is part of the Mandira Resort & Spa located on beautiful Legian Beach, Bali.

Azul Beach Club entrance fee: Free entry with the purchase of food and drinks.

Cabana/daybed – min. spend IDR 500, 000

Sunlounger – from min. spend IDR 150, 000

Pod – min. purchase of food & beverage at IDR 500, 000

Opening Hours: 7 am – 11 pm daily

Jalan Padma No.2, Legian

Read Next | Where to Find the Best Coffee in Bali

A long-time favourite, Potato Head has evolved from a beach club to a cultural hub. | Desa Potato Head

Seminyak Beach Clubs

8. Mari Beach Club

Mari Beach Club is located at Batu Belig, on a prime beachfront position in Seminyak.

An artfully created space has been designed to fit seamlessly into the surrounding natural landscape, inspired by Mount Agung, Bali’s famous rice terraces.

There are curated break-out spaces from VIP daybeds, surrounding the river-shaped tidal pool, VIP bungalows, lounges, bean bags, couches and cabanas.

Book a spot for the day and taste their creative cocktails and snacks or settle in at Sole for some al fresco dining.

The menu showcases Japanese and Mediterranean flavours, enjoyed by diners as they take in the Indian Ocean views and sea breeze.

Mari Beach Club entrance fee: Minimum spend on bookings. Click here for prices

Opening Hours: 12 pm to 10 pm weekdays, 12 pm to 11 pm weekends

Family-friendly? No

Jalan Batu Belig No.66 Kerobokan Kelod

9. Potato Head Beach Club

A long-time favourite, Potato Head Beach Club, is a popular spot for everyone from couples to friends and families.

The sizeable venue offers cute spots to enjoy a meal, day beds and their beachfront pool with a swim-up bar that continue to draw the crowds as one of the most loved and best beach clubs in Bali.

With three restaurants and a killer drinks menu, you must try one of their deliciously strong signature cocktails and settle in for a whole day of people-watching and relaxation poolside at Potato Head.

Potato Head has evolved over the years from a simple beach club to a cultural hub, offering daily yoga and beach workouts, and hosting art shows, great music, films, DJs and cultural events.

You can also stay on-site at Potato Head Suites and Katamama Suites, an eco-luxury suite hotel.

Potato Head Beach Club entrance fee: Free.

Daybeds require a minimum spend of about IDR 500,000 and cannot be pre-booked so get there early.

Opening Hours: 10 am to 2 am daily

Family-friendly? Yes

Jalan Petitenget No.51B, Seminyak, Bali

10. Mano Beach House

Mano Beach House is all about slowing down not partying it up.

This gorgeous island-inspired space welcomes guests at the restaurant and bar, encouraging them to stay a while.

Located on a quieter Bali beach, Petitenget Beach makes it a relaxing spot to spend the afternoon.

Sustainability is at the heart of their business ethos with their menu crafted from more than 90% local produce.

Mano Beach House entrance fee:  Free.

Day beds and tables at the restaurant should be pre-booked online.

Opening Hours: Daily, 11 am to 11 pm

Family-friendly? No

Jl. Pantai Pura Petitenget Seminyak

Read Next | Amazing Things to Do in Canggu

A breathtaking view of Savaya Day Club from above. | via Savaya

11. Savaya Bali

Savaya Bali (formerly known as Omnia Day Club) is one of Bali’s best beach clubs for those who want to party.

It is a proper party-down day club with the vibrant atmosphere you’d expect.

Coming to Bali with a group of friends? Celebrating before getting married on the island?

Savaya Beach Club could be the club for you; it’s the place to let your hair down all day and dance up in the Cube all night.

With a constantly changing schedule of world-class DJs and acts, book a weekend down in Uluwatu and spend a day at Savaya to the backdrop of panoramic ocean views.

Savaya Day Club entrance fee:

There is a smart casual dress code. You will not be allowed entry with beer-branded singlets, cut-off clothing or athleticwear.

Book Savaya VIP areas (daybeds, bungalows and the like) here.

Entry is strictly 21 years+

Opening Hours: Open from Monday to Thursday 11 am. Friday to Sunday from 1 pm onwards.

Family-friendly? No

Jl. Belimbing Sari, Banjar Tambiyak, Desa Pecatu, Uluwatu, Bali

12. Ku De Ta

Still one of our longtime favourite beach clubs, you can’t go wrong with Ku De Ta.

Settle in from morning to night under their iconic red umbrellas in the heart of Seminyak.

Ku De Ta is a great choice for couples, families and friends; a good mix between fun and relaxation, without the full-blown party vibe. We often even pop into Ku De Ta for breakfast on the weekend, while in Bali (often with a cheeky mimosa added on).

We then make sure we have a swim and grab a daybed before they fill up (best to pre-book a daybed).

Ku De Ta entrance fee: Free

There isn’t a minimum spend at Ku De Ta. But, you pay about Rp. 2,500,000 to reserve a day bed (for up to 4 people sharing the day bed) and that is credited towards food and beverage.

Opening Hours: From 8 am daily

Family-friendly? Yes. Children under 12 aren’t allowed on the second floor.

Ku De Ta has a great Family Sunday program with kids’ activities.

Jalan Kayu Aya No.9, Seminyak, Bali

13. SugarSand

Located on Double Six beach, part of Hotel Indigo, SugarSand really is in the heart of Seminyak.

A cosy spot, across the road from the sand, this is a calmer club that is perfect for a quiet lunch, swim and afternoon relaxation session.

It’s ideal if you are a guest of Hotel Indigo and you don’t want to stray too far, as we were on our visit.

Particularly, with a toddler in tow.

From SugarSand, work your way across the beach to La Plancha to watch the sunset with the crowds before moving on to dinner.

SugarSand is accessible via Hotel Indigo Seminyak or via the beach on Jalan Double Six.

SugarSand entrance fee: Free.

To use a daybed they require a min. spend of about IDR 500,000. You cannot reserve beds.

Opening Hours: Daily, 7 am to 11 pm

Family-friendly? Yes

Via Hotel Indigo Jl. Camplung Tanduk No.10, Seminyak, Bali

Read Next | The Ultimate Ubud Travel Guide

Experience a taste of Spain at Café del Mar, Bali. | via Cafe Del Mar

Canggu Beach Clubs

14. La Brisa

More than just a beach club, La Brisa is an experience and has quickly become one of the top beach clubs in Bali for Summer sundowners.

Crafted from reclaimed wood from more than 500 old fisherman boats, this Canggu beach club is an architectural marvel.

The space is divided into a restaurant, beach club and break-out spaces for events and special occasions.

Book lunch and stay for the afternoon and pull up one of their cosy deck chairs to enjoy one of their epic Echo Beach sunset sessions. There’s no better way to end the day.

In line with its community-focused ethos, La Brisa Bali hosts a Farmer’s Day each Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm, where visitors can buy organic produce, homemade treats, and zero-waste staples.

La Brisa entrance fee: Free

Opening Hours: Daily 10 am to 11 pm

Family-friendly? Yes

Jalan Pantai Batu Mejan, Canggu

15. Finns Beach Club

Finns Beach Club is more of a destination than a beach club.

The venue boasts 4 pools (including a family-friendly lagoon pool and adults-only infinity pool), 6 restaurants, 9 bars and 2 swim-up bars, among many other facilities from co-working spaces and sports facilities.

Visiting Bali with a big group of friends or family? This Canggu club could be the perfect place to spend the day and night.

Join one of their daily ocean yoga classes then settle in for the day after some breakfast.

Dine at one of their restaurants like Sushi Bar Bali or Mumbai Kitchen.

Or join the partygoers for happy hour between 7 pm and 9 pm and stay on for a dance to their Finns After Dark DJs.

Finn’s Beach Club entrance fee: Free.

Finn’s offers an array of different Finns package options. You can peruse them here.

Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am – 12 am

Family-friendly? Yes

Jalan Pantai Berawa, Canggu, Bali

16. Finns VIP Beach Club

Right next door and sharing an entrance is Finns VIP Beach Club.

Offering an elevated experience with more perks than its neighbour expect more luxury touch points like premium drinks, free parking, valet, complimentary coffee and juice and more.

Finn’s Beach Club entrance fee: Free.

Finn’s offers an array of different Finns VIP package options. Click to check prices here.

Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am – 12 am

Family-friendly? Yes. There are family-friendly daybed packages and an adults-only section.

Jalan Pantai Berawa Banjar Berawa No.5

17. Cafe del Mar

Bringing a bit of Ibiza to Bali, Cafe del Mar is another of the best beach clubs in Bali, located in Canggu.

Book everything from a sunlounger to a suite and spend the day in the beautiful Spanish-inspired surroundings.

With an infinity pool overlooking the beach, swim-up bars, cosy cocktail lounge areas and a Mediterranean-style restaurant, there is plenty to entertain during a day spent at Cafe del Mar.

Cafe Del Mar entrance fee: Free.

At the Beach Club, Sun Loungers are available for walk-ins for about IDR 800,000 min. spend (for 2 people) and day beds are IDR 2,000,000 min. spend for up to 6 people.

VIP options such as cabanas start at a min. spend about IDR 2,000,000 for the Master Suite at about IDR 25,000,000 for up to 30 people.

Opening Hours: 11 am to 10 pm daily. Children are not permitted in the beach club after 6 pm.

Jl. Subak Sari, Canggu, Bali

18. The Lawn

Known as the must-visit sunset-watching spot in Canggu, The Lawn is a favourite with visitors and ex-pats alike.

A casual, relaxed beach club, The Lawn is one of the best places in Canggu to meet friends for a cocktail or two and a swim in their beachfront pool as twilight sets in.

One of the more understated beach clubs in Bali, The Lawn is a much more laid-back option for those who aren’t quite ready for the hype or crowds at Finn’s Beach Club.

The Lawn entrance fee: Free.

Sunloungers, daybeds and cabana pricing are here.

Opening Hours: 10 am to 10 pm weekdays. 10 am to 11 pm at weekends

Jl. Pura Dalem, Canggu, Bali 

19. Atlas Beach Club

Bali’s biggest beach club, Atlas Beach Club is essentially an adult party-style amusement park inside Atlas Beach Fest, the biggest beach club in the world.

20. Vue Beach Club

A Bali beach club with more reasonable prices Vue Beach Club is a small, laid-back style space that is part of the LV8 hotel Canggu.

The location on Canggu Beach makes it a lovely spot to witness an iconic Bali sunset.

Lembongan Beach Clubs

22. Sandy Bay Beach Club

Sandy Bay Beach Club is located on the west coast of beautiful Nusa Lembongan island, the perfect day trip from Bali.

Book a table at the restaurant or choose a day trip package for your group to spend a relaxing day by the pool.

Want to stay a bit longer in this laidback island paradise? Book one of the shacks or the villa accommodation here.

Jl. Sandy Bay, Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Dua Beach Clubs

23. Reef Beach Club

A casual family-friendly beach club in Nusa Dua, Reef Beach Club is the ideal place to spend a few hours relaxing with the kids.

Part of the Apurva Kempinski Hotel in Nusa Dua, this beach club offers visitors casual dining (indoors or poolside), watersports, an infinity pool and a beautiful beachfront setting.

Jimbaran Bay Beach Clubs

24. Sundara Beach Club

Boasting Bali’s longest beachfront pool at a huge 57 meters in length, Sundara Beach Club is a luxurious beach club.

Part of the gorgeous Four Seasons Resort, Sundara doesn’t take reservations so be sure to arrive early to grab a spot.

Bookings include amenities such as towels, sunscreen, water and access to changing rooms and showers.

Cleverly, there is an adults-only sundeck chill-out zone at one end and a Family Zone down the other.

Bali Beach Club FAQs

Are Bali beach clubs worth it?

Bali beach clubs can be an expensive day out.

But, they really are a wonderful thing to do in Bali, even if you only spend a day there.

One of the best ways to spend a day out in Bali with kids where you can swim, eat, do water sports, listen to live music and relax.

There’s nothing quite like a day spent at one of the best beach clubs in Bali.

What do you do at a Bali Beach Club?

The best Bali beach clubs have more than enough activities to keep you entertained from morning until night time.

You’ll often find delicious food and drinks, day beds, swimming, live music, a swim-up bar, live DJs, organised water activities and more at a beach club in Bali.

Can kids go to a beach club in Bali?

Not all beach clubs are suitable for children. We have noted which are suitable to visit with kids in our list above.

What do you wear to the beach club in Bali?

Most Bali beach clubs have a smart casual dress code with restrictions on alcohol-branded clothing, footwear and swimwear.

Some beach clubs have a specific dress code for events and concerts.

I hope this list of the best beach clubs in Bali helps you to plan the perfect day or night out in Bali.

Here are more Great Bali Travel Guides:

Things to do in Canggu Bali

14 Must Try Bali Cafes

Where to Find the Best Coffee in Bali

Places to Stay in Ubud Bali

All prices and opening hours are current at the time of publication and are subject to change.

A Canggu favourite, The Lawn is the perfect afternoon wind-down and sunset-watching club. | Cassie Gallegos on Unsplash

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

Fivelements offers a beautiful retreat-style stay in the Ubud jungle. | © Pat Bailey

Where to Stay in Ubud, Bali

This is a handful of luxury hotels in Ubud that we have experienced. Each offers a unique experience from a wellness focus to jungle dining or luxury glamping.

These are a few of the best places to stay in Ubud Bali:

Kupu Kupu Barong

Kupu Kupu Barong Tree Villas and Spa offers the ultimate jungle retreat just outside of Ubud.

This hotel stands out as one of the best places to stay in Ubud, Bali for couples.

Nothing says Ubud more than views of the beautiful vine-covered valley and river below. Kupu Kupu Barong‘s 39 private pool villas all come with private butlers, while the property itself is expansive, covering three hectares.

This hotel is one of the best places to stay in Ubud for couples, known for its iconic five-star Tree Spa by L’Occitane, its romantic meal experiences (like dinner at their infinity pool overlooking the valley), and its popular afternoon high-teas (a great option even if you aren’t staying at the hotel).

There are also many activities like bike riding through the rice fields, the monkey forest, Ubud village tours, and hiking excursions it offers guests around Ubud. We were lucky enough to stay at the sister hotel on the property, the Jungle Retreat.

Read our Jungle Retreat review.

Fivelements

Fivelements is an intimate retreat-style hotel on the banks of the Ayung River just outside of Ubud.

With wellness at the forefront of their offering, Fivelements is much more than a simple hotel stay.

Every part of the day is holistically thought out, from the nutrient-dense, healthy menu, filling plates with color and vibrancy, to the incredible spa treatments in nature.

This is an immersive Ubud retreat experience.

Read our Fivelements Ubud Retreat review.

Como Uma Ubud is where class and wellness meet at the edge of the jungle in Ubud. | © Lucy Pearson

Como Uma Ubud

The name Como exudes substance in the wellness travel world. A Como hotel is bound to offer a stay that is rich in thoughtful details, mindful moments, and experiences.

Our time at Como Uma Ubud was evidence of that. Como Uma Ubud is a retreat-style resort where guests are offered privacy, luxury, and proximity to nature.

The generously sized villas are decorated in warm woods and soft white. Private infinity pools invite guests to savor their personal view of the Jampuhan Valley below.

Guests can also expect all of the usual wellness notes that Como is known for, from innovative spa treatments to daily yoga and mouthwatering healthy food.

Read our Como Uma Ubud review.

Sandat Glamping Tents is a truly unique way to experience the jungle outside of Ubud, Bali. | © Sandat Glamping

Sandat Glamping Tents

Sandat Glamping Tents is for those searching for an Ubud hotel experience unlike any other.

Stay in luxury tents on the fringes of the Ubud jungle with all of the luxuries of a hotel at your fingertips.

A private pool awaits where poolside massage treatments are on the menu. A bamboo yoga bale invites those continuing their practice while on holiday.

The common spaces are crafted from bamboo and are an eclectic mix of beach, jungle, and luxury resort styling.

Read our Sandat Glamping Tents review.

Visesa Ubud

Desa Visesa Ubud is guided by the premise of honoring traditions while offering a luxury stay to guests.

Crafted around the image of a Balinese village, expect to see nature on your villa doorstep with the verdant green of rice paddies creeping towards your private pool.

Open-air bathrooms invite guests to embrace the natural environment, while a private butler service ensures no whim is left unattended.

There are plenty of local cultural and adventurous activities on offer too, if you can manage to leave the comfort of your villa.

Read more about our stay at Desa Visesa here.

Desa Visesa Ubud is a place where tradition, nature, and luxury come together beautifully. | © Pat Bailey

Mandapa, A Ritz Carlton Reserve

Stepping into Mandapa is like entering a world of its own. This is one of the best places to stay in Ubud Bali for families.

If you have the budget, splurge on a villa at Mandapa.

The property offers privacy, positioned along the Ayung River, space, and a feeling that you are well away from the chaotic Ubud town center.

You will be hard-pressed to tear yourself away from your expansive suite or pool villa with nature-based and wellness-minded activities aplenty on offer here too.

We ate lunch on the Sawah Terrace and it opened up our eyes to this stunning, expansive Ubud estate.

On a previous trip, I had passed the hotel in a whitewater raft (as pictured below) and at the time wondered what this incredible property was.

Seeing it from land and dining on a five-star lunch there has firmly answered our question of where to stay in Ubud on our next visit; Mandapa is at the top of our Ubud hotels bucket list.

Read more Bali guides here:

Everything You Need to Book the Best Family Trip to Bali

The Best Beach Clubs in Bali

Epic Things to Do in Canggu

Things to do in Ubud Bali

The exclusive Mandapa Hotel sits on the banks of the Ayung River in Ubud.| © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

The Ubud Coffee Roastery is the perfect way to start your day in Ubud Town. | © Skye Gilkeson

Where to Find the Best Coffee in Bali

The Best Coffee in Seminyak

Revolver Espresso

Revolver Coffee Bali has become an institution in Bali for those looking for a great heart starter in the morning. When you think of the best coffee in Bali, Revolver will quickly slip off everyone’s lips. 

Revolver in Seminyak is the perfect mid-shopping break as you work your way along the Seminyak shopping strip.

Stop in for a short black or even a cold press (on one of those super humid Bali days). For those up near Jalan Petitenget, Baby Revolver will be your local.

More of a hole-in-the-wall coffee shop, this is the ideal place to stop in for a takeaway or a quick caffeine hit.

You’ll notice the brand at other cafes and restaurants around Bali as they are roasters too. For those who can’t (or simply don’t fancy leaving their villa for coffee, Revolver also delivers 7 days per week). 

Revolver also has some of the best coffee in Canggu as well. Grab a seat in the European-style cafe in Canggu and enjoy some breakfast with a great, Australian-style coffee. Don’t forget to grab some cold-brew cans for the road.

Grain

We’d heard about Grain‘s coffee for years but only tried it for the first time on our last trip to Bali.

On first sip it tasted like home; a good strong pour, powerful enough to help us bare the crowds during the rest of our shopping jaunt along Jalan Seminyak in the afternoon heat.

Grain is part of the “seed the cup” initiative, meaning they are part of the process from pick to pour, helping to promote sustainable coffee farming practices locally.

Read Next | A Guide to the Best Canggu Restaurants

Stop in at Sisterfields Seminyak for some air-conditioned comfort and a great coffee. | Paulo Nicolello

Sisterfields

Sisterfields has long been a go-to first thing in the morning if we are staying in Seminyak. One of the first cafes to bring Australian-style pours to Seminyak they make consistently good coffee.

Enjoy your morning latte served in the comfort of their chic air-conditioned cafe, a step, but seemingly a world away from the Seminyak chaos outside.

The Best Coffee in Legian

Coffee Cartel

With boutique branches in both Seminyak and Legian (where their roastery is), the founders of Coffee Cartel Bali brought their love of coffee from Australia to Bali.

The coffee menu at Coffee Cartel is a little bit fancy; you’ll find all of the usual suspects along with Bullet Proof, V60 drip and aeropress for the health nuts.

They also feature those Insta-worthy lattes in all the colors of the rainbow from Matcha to Charcoal.

With a full food menu, you can settle into their blush surrounds for a little longer than a short black too.

Related: Bali Cafes: 15 of the Best Seminyak Cafes

The uber-cool Peloton Supershop is often filled with digital nomads chasing coffee and dreams. | © Skye Gilkeson

Best Coffee in Canggu

Pels Supershop

Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to Canggu restaurants. But, a name that will always be in front of my mind when venturing to busy Canggu is Pels Supershop.

One of the best cafes in Canggu for vegan food, Pels also has delicious pizzas, bowls, and desserts.

We love it so much, we made our driver pull in and wait with the meter running so we could grab some takeaway coffees, during our last visit.

The Best Coffee in Ubud

Ubud Coffee Roastery

Ubud Coffee Roastery pours up delicious strong coffee in their cute little cafe in the backstreets of Ubud town.

I dare you to enjoy your brew without one of their fresh French pastries in hand – they are delicious.

We managed to squeeze in two coffees and a pastry before our toddler lost her patience and the rest of the cafe, theirs. It was a lifesaver.

The Best Coffee in Uluwatu

Suka Espresso

When it comes to where to find the best coffee in Bali, the Bukit is definitely having a moment. Suka Expresso is a favorite on the Bukit. They have a sister cafe in Ubud too.

They serve up Australian-style coffee to locals and visitors in Ubud alongside a mouthwatering menu of healthy Western-style dishes, Buddha bowls, and shakes.

We hope you enjoyed this snapshot of some of where to find just some of the best coffee in Bali.

There are so many new coffee places in Bali popping up all the time if you’ve got a favorite we haven’t mentioned yet. Get in touch and let us know.

More Bali Travel Guides:

Awesome Things to Do in Ubud Bali

What to do in Canggu Bali

14 Must Try Seminyak Cafes

The Best Coffee in Bali

Best places to Stay in Ubud Bali

This morning’s macchiato was perfection at Ubud Coffee Roastery. | © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson | Updated 2023

Pels Supershop is an institution in Canggu. The spot for vegan food in Bali. | © Skye Gilkeson

Our Favourite Canggu Restaurants

Penny Lane Canggu

Be transported to Tulum with this design-led favourite. Penny Lane is a Canggu restaurant with something for everyone.

The menu is vast and offers everything from one of the best Canggu breakfasts to delicious cocktails and cute surroundings for night-time dining.

Cafe Vida Canggu

Known for some of the best coffee in Canggu, Cafe Vida is a delight for anyone looking for organic food in Bali.

They lovingly prepare their menu from scratch. You’ll find plenty of healthy, gluten-free and raw vegan options on the menu making it a popular spot with locals.

Delivery is available through GO-JEK. Open daily.

Pels Supershop

Formerly Peloton Supershop, this is one of the most popular and one of the best vegan cafes in Bali.

Pels Supershop offers plant-based dishes with clean flavours and some of the best food in Canggu.

Known for its vegan pizzas, smoothie bowls and one of the best Canggu burgers (meat-free, obviously), make sure you grab a delicious iced coffee while you’re there too.

Zin Cafe

The best restaurant in Canggu for digital nomads?  Zin Cafe Canggu certainly has a lot to offer.

Zin Cafe Canggu has been cleverly laid out to cater for Bali’s digital nomads and holidaymakers alike.

Choose a spot in the Canggu Coworking space for a productive day of smoothie bowls with a side of work. Or, make your way to the rooftop and enjoy the views over Canggu before a workout in their gym onsite.

Zin also has rooms if you plan on staying in Canggu.

Here are some other of Bali’s Best Coworking Spaces.

La Brisa

Meaning “sea breeze”, La Brisa sits on the stunning Echo Beach.

Built from reclaimed wood from more than 500 old fisherman boats, the consciously considered design is also echoed in the food, drinks and atmosphere at this Canggu beach club.

La Brisa is the type of place you’ll come for lunch and stay for sundowners and dinner.

A welcoming hang-out for families too, you’ll find a great kids menu alongside some substantial food options for adults.

Read Next | The Best Things to Do in Canggu

Canggu food feast – Burgers and bowls at the Pels Supershop, Canggu. | Via Content Pixie on Unsplash

Deus Cafe Canggu is a great spot for breakfast and coffee or afternoon cocktails. | Radoslav Bali

Deus Ex Machina

One of the first “fancier” establishments to pop up in the area, Deus Ex Machina is still a favourite Canggu cafe with ex-pats and visitors alike.

The menu features traditional Indonesian and Western favourites. Open daily and they deliver via GoJek.

The Shady Shack

The Shady Shack Canggu looks a little like the beach house we all dream of; lots of fresh air and cosy, rustic seats under the trees in the garden and of course a delicious vegetarian menu.

Order something fresh from the menu but don’t forget to check out the raw treats in the cabinet for a healthy dessert too. Open daily.

Read Next | 15 Amazing Seminyak Cafes

Fresh delights at Betelnut – one of the best restaurants in Canggu, Bali. | © Betelnut Cafe

Colourful and delicious bites at the must-try Betelnut, Canggu. | © Betelnut Cafe

Motion Cafe 

Formerly known as Avocado Cafe, Paleos will love Motion Cafe, particularly for a pick-me-up after a morning workout at one of the famed Canggu gyms or surf spots.

With lots of Paleo-specific options on the menu, vegans and vegetarians won’t be disappointed either.

Health enthusiasts looking for places to eat in Canggu after a workout will love the menu at Motion Cafe.

It is all about nutrient-dense bites with a rotating weekly menu to keep their regular clients’ diets balanced. For those looking for more direction, they also offer bespoke meal plans and consultations.

The Lawn

The Lawn is the spot for sundowners and is considered one of the best Canggu restaurants for dinner and drinks. Famed for its front-row seat it offers those iconic Canggu sunsets.

Grab a spot on the black sand for a cocktail before dusk or settle in for some dinner under the thatched pergola overlooking Canggu Beach. They also do a weekend brunch buffet.

Book a cabana or daybed so you can relax and digest all of that delicious food after feasting.

Read Next | Where to Eat, Stay and Play in Ubud, Bali

Crate Cafe in Canggu, Bali is a hot spot to hit up for breakfast and hipster-watching. | © Mary Tilson

Crate Cafe Canggu

Boasting all-day breakfast and possibly the best cafe in Canggu to spot the hipster crowd is Crate.

Wander in straight from the beach or the pool and browse the menu, scribbled straight onto the raw concrete back wall.

The superfood bowls are a hit, but there is ample fresh and tasty fare to try for those with a sweet or savoury palette.

The Slow 

Come for a beautiful meal, and leave overwhelmed with design inspiration at The Slow, Canggu.

Suites, a cafe, a restaurant and a gallery, you could spend an afternoon or a week at The Slow. One of the only fine dining Canggu restaurants (when compared to Seminyak), the menu is varied but very considered with wood-fired meats, seafood, vegetables and grains all featured.

Flavours are introduced from around the world thanks to Chef Daniel Medcalf with some Asian-style dishes, others showing a little European flare. Open daily.

Poke Poke

Fancy a little taste of Hawaii, in Bali? This Canggu restaurant delivers. Poke Poke is one of the many poke bowl cafes in Canggu,  serving up super fresh poke bowls and smoothie bowls. Design your own or choose one from their menu, at really reasonable prices.

The perfect lunch stop after a morning at the beach or by the pool. Prepare your camera too! Their creations are just as pleasing to the eye as the stomach.

Warung Bu Mi

The best place to eat in Canggu for those wanting Indonesian food, Warung Bu Mi is a fan favourite.

Warung Bu Mi is a great option for those looking for cheap eats in Canggu or simply wanting to experience eating in a warung while in Bali.

Expect a small menu of typical Indonesian dishes.

Read Next | 5 of the Best Luxury Hotels in Bali

A fresh smoothie bowl served in a coconut is the stuff of island dreams. | © Poke Poke

Super fresh fish poke bowls are the perfect refreshing lunch in Canggu. | © Poke Poke

Cover Image with thanks to The Slow

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson 

Shelter Cafe is one of the best cafes in Seminyak and a very popular spot for visitors. | © Skye Gilkeson

13 Seminyak Cafes We Love

I have included a few personal favourite Seminyak cafes below and recently updated the list thanks to some tips from Bali local and friend Fiona Peters.

These really are just a small part of Bali cafes that make up their clean eating map. With so many vegan cafes, smoothie and poke bowl restaurants joining typical Indonesian warungs there are an endless number of cafes in Seminyak Bal these days.

And, in typical Bali style, there are new Bali cafes and restaurants popping up all the time. 

If you’re travelling with friends or a partner who is looking to indulge never fear; most menus also cater to their tastes with everything from Indonesian staples like Nasi Goring (a traditional fried rice dish) to comfort foods like burgers and ribs.

Most of the best cafes in Seminyak offer delivery to your hotel or villa via GoJek.

It is a super simple way to get a delicious lunch or dinner delivered, without even having to leave the comfort of your poolside lounge.

This is particularly handy if you are travelling with picky eaters (like children).

The delicious breakfast Banh Mi at Grain in Seminyak. | © Skye Gilkeson

1. Grain

“Are you guys right?” A very familiar accent welcomed us and a strapping Australian man in a chef’s uniform followed with a broad smile at Grain. He quickly gave us the wifi password and offered to grab Alaska some colouring pages and crayons.

We stepped in from the heat for lunch. Alaska had the kids fish and chips, The Hubby the Nasi Goreng and I got a breakfast Bahn Mi (in true Aussie style, breakfast is served all day here).

This place feels like home, with the great coffee something we had been craving all morning. The location is perfect for a mid-shopping meal or a reprieve before you brave the nearby Bintang supermarket.

2. Shelter Cafe

Another Seminyak coffee favourite, Shelter Cafe encourages customers to come for a bite to eat and stay to hang out and chat over a delicious coffee.

When it comes to healthy Seminyak cafes, this is one you’ll hear mentioned, every time. Design your own breakfast or juice or tuck it into a superfood smoothie or a piece of delicious raw cake.

If you are dining at the Seminyak cafe, don’t forget to browse the boutique on the way out. There are some gorgeous pieces for the home and the wardrobe.

Shelter Cafe also delivers for those feeling a healthy meal in the comfort of their hotel room. Open daily.

3. Kynd Community

The plant-based Seminyak cafe, Kynd Community promises to make veggies taste delicious.

A very Instagrammable place, get your taste buds and camera ready for their beautifully bright smoothie bowls, grab a Love Mug or dig into a Kynd Big Mac.

If you still have room, hop next door for one of their delicious ice creams. Open daily.

4. La Lucciola

First holiday away with a new love?

Take them to La Lucciola for breakfast or lunch and you are bound to impress. Set in a grand, two-storey, open-air building with a thatched roof, it feels more like a beautiful beach house than a restaurant.

Generous bamboo tables and chairs allow for privacy, undisturbed views of the water and the opportunity to bathe in the breeze which is one of the benefits of the cafe sitting right off the sand.

Go for a long lunch to enjoy the view.

Read Next | Where to Find the Best Coffee in Bali

Feast on the delicious menu at Shelter Cafe Bali. One of our favourites. | © Skye Gilkeson

5. Sisterfields Cafe

Sisterfields Cafe brings in the crowds with some of the best coffee in Seminyak. Whenever I wander into the cafe near Seminyak Square, I feel like I’m stepping into a Bondi local. 

A Sisterfields Acai Bowl, Homemade Bircher or Smashed Avocado might be the reprieve you’re hoping for on those humid Bali mornings.

For lunch, freshly made, allergy-friendly salads power out from the kitchen for the health nuts alongside the famed Pulled Pork Charcoal Roll and Dirty Burger.

Thirsty? Grab a young coconut, green smoothie or fresh juice. Open daily.

6. Zula Vegetarian Paradise

Zula meaning “home away from home” is heaven for vegetarians in Bali.

Committed to clean and conscious eating, Zula follows strict practices to ensure their food is GMO-free, organic and cooked in the most nourishing way possible.

7. Earth Cafe

We’ve mentioned our fondness for Earth Cafe in Ubud in our Ubud guide, but they also have a sister cafe in Seminyak.

The principles are the same; they serve up a beautiful, clean, plant-based menu and also sell organic groceries in Bali for those who need some healthy supplies while they are in visiting, stocking everything from food to cosmetics.

Earth Cafe also delivers via Whatsapp. Open daily.

8. Neon Palms

Reminiscent of a mix of Palm Springs and Hawaii, Neon Palms feels a little like you’ve stepped directly into an influencer’s Instagram feed.

With plush seating, bold colours and stunning vintage detailing around every corner, you can expect picture-perfect meals and cocktails to match.

The menu at Neon Palms is extensive – offering something for everyone from vegans to vegetarians, meat-eaters and the kids too. Open daily.

Grilled Fish and Pulled Pork Tacos, Sea Circus, Seminyak, Bali. Image © Skye Gilkeson

9. Sea Circus

The laid-back, colourful vibe at Sea Circus is echoed in their food; vibrant, delicious and unpretentious.

The menu is small but it packs a nutritious punch. For breakfast, tuck into a Quinoa & Chia Seed Coconut milk Porridge with goji berries, Granola with bee pollen, fresh berries and banana or Green Eggs made with feta and mushy peas.

We dropped in for a late lunch and tried the Lentil and Red Quinoa Salad, Sizzling Chicken with Coriander and Quinoa and a couple of amazingly fresh soft tacos from the taco bar. Open daily.

10. Motel Mexicola

Conveniently located across the road from the famous day spa, Bodyworks, Motel Mexicola has been a popular post-treatment destination for us when in Bali.

The Mexican fare is fresh, spicy and delicious and if you’re feeling a little naughty, a margarita is a must.

Don’t forget your camera, the decor is nothing short of Insta-worthy. Book online if you are heading for dinner with a group.

11. Cafe Kim Soo

Like stepping into the pages of a luxury living magazine, Cafe Kim Soo is a little bit special.

A pretty straightforward Western menu with some Indonesian favourites, there is something for everyone here.

Beware, the cafe is just as beautifully curated as the shop itself, so you make leave with a satisfied palette and a few bags full of stunning homewares too. Open daily.

12. Merah Putih

Merah Putih is a restaurant that will impress and could be where you’ll go for your best dinner in Seminyak.

The design is both beautiful and practical with design elements also acting as clever ways to reduce the environmental footprint of the restaurant.

The menu celebrates Indonesian flavours offering traditional dishes and new, creative interpretations of the Indonesian palette.

Open for lunch, drinks and dinner.

13. Watercress Cafe 

Watercress Cafe is away from the Seminyak cafe strip and that’s part of its appeal. Stepping off the often busy Batu Belig, life’s pace slows a little at Watercress.

It feels wholesome and organic, like the food they dish up. Wooden tables are positioned to take in the back garden – home to their own organic vegetables.

The breakfast menu is vast with every taste satisfied. If you’re hungry, wait until lunch and you can enjoy a smorgasbord of organic goodness with the Watercress Lunch Showcase.

We went to Watercress for dinner and enjoyed a mojito (“Hold the sugar, Sugar”), Wild Rice Stir Fry with Citrus Chicken and the most delicious Nicoise Salad with pan-seared tuna. Open daily.

Check out the best Canggu restaurants and Ubud cafes

We never miss a chance to go to Motel Mexicola for drinks or dinner when in Seminyak. | © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Zoe Louise Lagesse | Cover image © The Residence Bintan

The Residence Bintan offers the perfect reprieve from busy Singapore. | © The Residence Bintan

In case you haven’t heard of it, Bintan sits on Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago, just an hour’s ferry ride from Singapore. It’s known mainly for its championship golf courses and luxury resorts. So, it’s the ideal place to escape to from the buzz of the Little Red Dot. But that’s not all it has to offer. 

Singapore to Tanjung Pinang

Travelling from Singapore to Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia takes just under an hour. A twenty-minute cab ride from downtown Singapore will have you at Tanah Merah ferry terminal, where your adventure begins.

Booking ahead is always recommended when it comes to Bintan ferry tickets. So, once you’ve got your $40 SGD (approximately) ticket, you’ll be on your way. Buy your Bintan ferry tickets through BRF or Sindo.

Flying from Singapore to Tanjung Pinang is possible with Garuda or Lion Air. However, the route requires at least one stopover, so the ferry is a much faster option.

To save you waiting in the heat, pre-book a transfer with your hotel from Tanjung Pinang. If you forget, don’t fret, there’s plenty of friendly taxi drivers at the Bintan ferry terminal more than willing to take you to your Bintan hotel.

While it is possible to take a day trip to Bintan from Singapore, we recommend you spend the weekend and get the most out of your time on the island with all of the fun and interesting things to do in Bintan.

Getting Around Bintan Island

Public transport in rare on Bintan so visitors usually hire scooters (for around Rp. 100,000 per day) or a car (for around Rp. 500,000 per day). Your hotel can help you organise either or simply negotiate with the local businesses in person.

If you aren’t confident driving around the island yourself, pre-book a private car and driver for your stay or your excursion days. This can also be done through your accommodation.

Related: A Photo Journal from Bintan Island, Indonesia

A visit to Senggarang Village is a must during your time on Bintan Island. | © Skye Gilkeson

Bintan Attractions

Meet the Sea Gypsies of Panglong Village

You’d be amazed at how much Bintan’s 453 square miles has to explore. The island is a melting pot of cultures and one that’s best embraced with a visit to traditional villages like the Sea Gypsies’ (also known as Orang Suku Laut) in Panglong.

The people of this humble community are some of the most welcoming you’re ever likely to meet and will be keen to entice you into their make-shift restaurants so you can feast on local delights like dried salted fish (don’t worry, it tastes better than it sounds!)

Catch sight of the locals crafting fishing nets or making their own boats, and don’t forget to venture further into the village to admire the mosque and cathedral too.

The village is located on the north of the island, not far from Trikora, and is easily accessible via our preferred method of transport – renting a moped or car – as it allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own schedule. 

Step Back in Time in Senggarang Village

The Chinese settlement of Senggarang, close to the ferry terminal at Tanjung Pinang, is also worth experiencing for yourself. Here, canals weave their way between the wooden houses built on stilts and there are numerous temples and shrines to admire. And don’t deny your taste buds the chance to sample the bounty of local seafood specialities, either. Look out for them piled high on the street food carts. See more in our Bintan photo journal.

Visit the Incredible 500 Lohan Temple

The 500 Lohan Temple is one of the most interesting things to do in Bintan. When it comes to Bintan attractions, it is really unique. The intricate hand-carved stone statues stand at the ready to welcome visitors and their cameras. Wander around and take in the incredible expressions of the arhats, step into the small vihara and enjoy the views. There is a small entrance fee to visit the site. It is closed on Mondays.

Related: How to Plan the Ultimate Singapore Getaway

The beautiful Sebung River where you can witness local life, eat fresh seafood or tour the mangroves. | © Skye Gilkeson

Take a Bintan Mangrove Tour

The Sebung River snakes around through the mangroves and offers visitors a brief encounter in the jungle. Tours run for about 90-minutes with guides sharing their local knowledge of the surroundings and wildlife you come across in passing from monkeys to monitors. The mangrove tour costs about Rp 180,000 per person.

Join the Locals at a Street Market

Try the delicious mie bangka (hakka – style dumpling soup) and mix with the locals at one of the local food markets. Or hit the shops at the popular Pulau Bintan markets to hunt down some bargains.

There are water-based activities aplenty for the adventurous. | © The Residence Bintan

Bintan Activities

Enjoy Some Water-Based Fun

If you’re something of a water baby, you’ll be happy to hear there are few sea-based activities that Bintan cannot offer up.

Rent (or take a lesson on) a paddleboard, jet ski, or kayak and set out toward some of the island’s most beautiful bays. Particularly worth a visit is the saltwater Crystal Lagoon where the waters are calm and stunningly clear and Trikora Beach.

The latter is made up of four sandy beaches dotted with restaurants and wooden huts that you can rent for the day. It’s well worth taking a snorkel with you too to discover the colourful fish that are living a life beneath the waves.

Try Some Tropical Hiking

As for more lively activities, Bintan is so varied in terrain and lush in tropical foliage that it’s no surprise hiking here is a popular pastime.

One of our favourite trails leads you through the rainforest and up Mount Bintan, past waterfalls and wildlife like monkeys, lizards, and vibrantly coloured birds. It’s not ridiculously high – only 340 metres – but the peak is still tall enough to reward you with sweeping panoramas that showcase the unique natural landscape.

Be sure to stop a while in the small, quaint villages at the bottom too, notable as some of the earliest settlements on the island. 

The Grotto Santa Maria is another beautiful trail, and one that’s often dubbed a ‘hidden gem’. Built by a religious man from Holland in the eighteenth century, it’s made up of a series of fourteen sculptures and crosses that lead you up to the grotto and chapel.

Services are still held there every Sunday and tourists (if respectful, of course) are more than welcome to join, should they wish to. It’s tucked away not far from Trikora, and is a pretty, interesting trail that we strongly suggest adding to your itinerary. 

Related: 5 of the Best Luxury Hotels in Singapore

Tropical vibes on Bintan Island, Indonesia – just an hour from Singapore. | © Zoe Louise Lagesse

Bintan Island offers everything from resort relaxation to unique cultural immersion. | © Zoe Louise Lagesse

Where to Stay in Bintan

The Residence Bintan

As for where to stay in Bintan, one of the newer and most highly recommended additions to the Bintan resort scene is The Residence Bintan.

Complete with a stunning infinity pool, faultless service, a heavenly spa, and glorious chilled-out vibe, it’s a beachside property that’s well deserving of its five-star status.

It has been designed as a restorative escape, making it the ideal base for a stay that you want to be both relaxing and exploratory. Despite being less than an hour’s drive from the ferry terminal, it has an almost private island feel thanks in part to its abundance of greenery and sleek, zen-inducing spaces.

The infinity pool is undoubtedly our favourite area of the resort. Positioned to overlook the sea, it’s encircled by sun-drenched cabanas and a cocktail-laden pool bar, making for an idyllic spot to while away an afternoon.

And it’s equally peaceful once darkness falls too. Picture gently swaying palm trees, lights glinting on the horizon and the sound of the waves lapping over the shore as the tide makes its night-time retreat.

If that wasn’t already relaxing enough, head to the spa. Theirs is helmed by award-winning British brand, The Spa by ilā and it’s a little haven of serenity. Here, guests can take their pick from couples treatments, reflexology, chakra healing, pampering spa journeys, and beauty rituals. Their wellness programs dedicated to holistic health, yoga and rejuvenation come highly recommended too and are a wonderful choice for those who need to press the reset button.

Complimentary yoga sessions held morning and evening are also on hand to cater to your wellbeing, as is access to the state-of-the-art gym. Other activities at the resort include cooking classes, birdhouse painting, and ATV driving. By far the most memorable, however, is the sunset boat trip that takes you out among the mangroves and into the glowing firefly caves.

Related: Bali’s Best Healthy Cafes

The accommodation at The Residence Bintan takes advantage of water views and tropical surrounds. | © The Residence Bintan

The Villas

When it’s time to retreat to your private lodging, there’s nothing not to love about The Residence Bintan’s spacious garden villa. It’s a luxurious suite that’s set back from the beach, with a sprawling terrace that overlooks the lush landscaped gardens and views of the sea beyond. The super king-sized bed and deluxe toiletries ensure total comfort; utter perfection after a lively, adventurous day.

If you’re celebrating with that special someone, however, you might want to spring for the couples’ estate villa. It spans two storeys and has its own infinity pool; all positioned in a quiet, secluded spot away from the main resort, allowing you to savour the feeling of peaceful isolation.

The villas at The Residence Bintan are the ultimate in luxury retreat-style accommodation. © The Residence Bintan

The Restaurants

Anyone in the travel industry knows that good food is one of the most enjoyable parts of a vacation, so we were happy to discover that the culinary options at The Residence Bintan don’t disappoint. 

Overlooking the rest of the resort is the Dining Room, where your days here begin. Breakfast combines Western flavours with Asian specialties, and we suggest bringing your appetite for what’s in store, as not only is there a waffle and pancake station, but also a dedicated egg chef ready to make your poached, scrambled or omelette dreams come true. The hot and cold buffet selections have plenty of variety too, to ensure carnivorous, pescatarian, and vegan palettes are all well catered for.

The piece de resistance of The Residence Bintan dining, however, is Rica Rica. The menu is a celebration of modern Indonesian flavours and is best enjoyed via an amazing set menu designed for two. It’s made up of a selection of Indonesian small plates that come exquisitely prepared using locally sourced ingredients. Particular highlights include the Wagyu beef rendang (slow-cooked for four hours) and aromatic fish curry that had us marvelling, eyes closed, at the rich cacophony of flavour in every bite.

The Residence Bintan also puts on ad hoc barbecues and romantic beach dining experiences. The latter happens most weekends and is beautifully set up after dark with tables on the sand dotted between the trees. The combination of candlelight dancing on the trees and fantastic Indonesian live music creates an intimate, casually elegant ambience that’s guaranteed to have you feeling utterly stress-free. As for the food, there are three tantalising set menus to pick from; one for meat, another for seafood and a third focused solely on vegetables.

Related: A Guide to Canggu: Bali’s Coolest Neighbourhood

Days spent poolside at The Residence Bintan. | © The Residence Bintan

Bintan is a conveniently located slice of heaven that – quite literally – has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, active weekend with friends, or a solo adventure, this combination of five-star resort and boatload of tropical island activities manages to tick all the boxes you could hope for.

Zoe Louise Cronk

Zoe Louise Cronk is a freelance writer and editor who left the corporate world behind to spend her days crafting ideas into articles and exploring new avenues of health and fitness.

When not writing or daydreaming, Zoe can be found planning the next tick off her travel bucket list.

Palms rise up from the water in peaceful Canggu Bali. | Sweet Ice Cream Photography

Things to Do in Canggu: A Local’s Guide

Why is Canggu worth visiting?

Canggu, or the Gu, as it is informally known, may not be as sophisticated as some of the neighboring areas. But, there are plenty of things to do in Canggu.

That, coupled with some amazing accommodations in Canggu, makes this the perfect destination for a fantastic tropical Bali holiday.

First of all, you need to know a bit about the different areas that make up Canggu; it may not be very big, but there is quite a lot of diversity in terms of areas.

So, depending on what type of holiday you want, you need to pick the right place.

There are six different areas in Canggu:

• Batu Bolong
• Berawa Beach
• Echo Beach
• Pererenan
• Umalas
• Kerobokan

Batu Bolong, Berawa Beach, and Echo Beach make up the busiest parts of Canggu and are definitely the places to go if you prefer to be at the center of the action.

These Canggu beaches are obviously all right on the coast and full of bars, restaurants, and clubs. Batu Bolong is also the main shopping area.

By contrast, Pererenan is the quietest part of town, full of sleepy streets, ancient temples, and some amazing views of the rice fields. It’s great for anyone who just wants to escape the world and enjoy life at a slower pace for a little while.

You may have heard of Kerobokan as it is home to Bali’s famous prison of the same name.

But, don’t let this put you off, as both Kerobokan and neighboring Umalas have some lovely places to stay as well as plenty of restaurants and shops.

Read Next | The Ultimate Ubud Travel Guide

Book one of the beautiful Canggu villas available in the area for peace, quiet, and luxury. | Taylor Simpson

Where to Stay in Canggu

Once you have worked out where to go, you need to decide where to stay in Canggu.

There are plenty of Canggu beach accommodation options to suit all budgets, ranging from 5*resorts to some less expensive resorts and Canggu villas.

Click here to search for Canggu accommodations and read real reviews

Although the thought of booking a Bali villa may have you clutching your wallet in pain, things are a little different in Bali. You can find some of the best places to stay in Canggu for families or large groups for a really good price. 

If you are on a tight budget but don’t want to compromise on quality, then try looking into some of the gorgeous boutique hotels in Canggu. There are several in central locations that have all the benefits you would expect to find in a high-end hotel, for a fraction of the cost.

Tugu Hotel Canggu is a stunning Bali boutique hotel with carefully designed suites showcasing artisanal works and antique pieces. This wrap-up of some of the best luxury hotels in Bali includes our stay at Tugu Canggu.

Although a little tired, the Aston Canggu is a popular 4-star resort just footsteps from Batu Bolong Beach for those on more of a budget.

COMO Uma Canggu could be the best hotel in Canggu for those in search of a luxury wellness experience. Expect from Surf and Stay packages to indulgent COMO Shambhala retreat stays that will ensure your reach that coveted Bali bliss high on return home.

Search more of the best hotels in Canggu Bali here.

Read Next | What to do in Seminyak Bali

Try the beautiful, fresh menu offers at Betelnut Cafe Canggu. | © Betelnut Cafe

Cozy surrounds at Betelnut Cafe Canggu. | © Betelnut Cafe

Where to Eat in Canggu

Canggu is well known for its cafe scene, so to start any day in the Gu, you will want to find a good place for breakfast.

You won’t have to look far as there are plenty of places to choose from. 

Penny Lane Bali

Get your camera and your appetite ready as Penny Lane Canggu packs a punch.

Mexican-inspired interiors will make you swoon as you saunter into the relaxed Canggu restaurant.

You would be hard-pressed not to find something on their extensive menu. It has you covered from breakfast to dessert, featuring cuisines from around the world.

You’ll find comfort food favorites the likes of a loaded schnitzel Australian-style to American-esque wings and some of the Canggu’s best burgers for a post-surf carb hit.

For the crowd fresh from the yoga studio there are vegan and healthy food options such as smoothies and superfood salads.

It’s a veritable choose-your-own epicurean adventure.

Shady Shack

When the sun starts to get too high in the sky, it’s a good idea to head back inland and find and find somewhere for lunch.

There are enough places to choose from that you could probably spend the entire holiday cafe hopping from one to the other and still not go everywhere.

Try the Shady Shack. This is a vegetarian restaurant, but meat-eaters should not be put off, it has some of the best food in Canggu.

Everything is so tasty that you will not notice the difference. They do one of the best veggie burgers and also some tasty savory bowls.

You also get to enjoy a lively atmosphere – if you sit inside you will be surrounded by funky decorations, and outside you will be in tropical gardens.

Additionally, this is a good place to come and hang out for an hour or two, with a latte and a delicious slice of homemade cake.

Here is our full guide to the best restaurants in Canggu

Read Next | Where to Eat in Bali

The home-like space at Shady Shack Canggu. | © Shady Shack

Eat the rainbow at the Shady Shack Canggu| © Shady Shack

6 Amazing Things to do in Canggu

When it comes to things to do in Canggu, the area generously caters to families, couples, and surfers alike.

With plenty of amazing Canggu restaurants, outdoor activities, and signature Bali spas to help you unwind during your stay.

1. Relax at a Canggu Day Spa

As far as afternoon activities in Canggu go, there is a lot on offer. If you feel like going down the relaxing route, then why not treat yourself to one of the local spas?

The Goldust Beauty Lounge and Amo Spa Caggu are two of the most popular and both of them have plenty of luxurious treatments to choose from. Besides, you can’t come to Bali and not get a massage

Arguably the best spa in Canggu AMO Spa Canggu is a one-stop-shop offering everything from spa packages to sauna, beauty treatments, IV, and a cafe for a healthy lunch afterward.

Goldust Beauty Lounge is known for its very Instagrammable 24k GOLD facial. In Bali for a wedding? They offer spa parties for a pre-party pamper.

Read Next | Bali’s Best Coworking Spaces

Canggu has a laid-back vibe with plenty to do and beautiful surf beaches. | Josh Withers

2. Learn to Surf in Canggu

Learning to surf has to be one of the most iconic things to do in Canggu Bali.

There are plenty of Canggu surf schools, where you can book a private surf lesson or book the kids into a Bali surf camp during your stay too.

3. Visit Tanah Lot

Another option is to go to the nearby Tanah Lot. This is one of Bali’s most famous, not to mention beautiful, temples and is usually considered to be a ‘Bali must do’ site whilst on the island.

It’s usually better to go later in the day so you can enjoy the sun setting over the ocean and silhouetting the temple. Be warned, it can get busy though.

Read Next | 12 of the Best Beach Clubs in Bali

Sunset at The Lawn Canggu is a must during your visit. | Cassie Gallegos

Bikes showing off at Deus Ex Machina, Canggu. | Radoslav Bali

4. Workout out at a Canggu Gym

If you’re a keen Instagram scroller, it’s likely you’ve seen the shiny bodies beaming after a session at Body Factory Bali.

The best gym in Canggu to train and check out the fit crowd, grab a casual pass and join one of their many classes covering yoga, pilates, and strength. They even have women-only workouts for gym newcomers to feel more comfortable on the gym floor.

The Canggu Studio has more of a dance focus with a huge variety of classes ranging from Barre to gymnastics and Yoga HIIT. They offer drop-in passes to full memberships.

Check out our wrap-up on where to find five of the best yoga classes in Bali.

5. Settle in For a Canggu Sunset

Canggu is lucky to be on the right side of Bali to make the most of the famed Canggu sunset.

Set yourself up with a good viewing spot. There are loads of good bars and beach clubs in Canggu.

Try getting yourself a beanbag at The Lawn, La Brisa, or heading to a local favourite, Ji Terrace by the Sea.

It is a 3rd-floor roof terrace restaurant and bar with a panoramic view of the coastline, that happens to serve some delicious cocktails.

You also won’t have to go far for dinner as they serve a delicious pan-Asian menu and some of the best sushi you will find outside of Japan.

6. Canggu Nightlife

Once darkness falls, bars in Canggu come to life. The Canggu nightlife scene may not be quite as hectic as Seminyak and is definitely nothing like Kuta, but there is plenty going on.

Deus Ex Machina is always a good place to go, especially for ‘Tacos and Tattuesdays’, as is the dance floor at Old Mans.

Pretty Poison Bali in nearby Kediri is a hot spot for the surf and skate crowd with a DJ, with a backyard party vibe complete with an empty pool for skaters to show off their skills.

Finish the evening at one of the best bars in Canggu, Sand Bar, which stays open into the early hours and is known for its bonfires on the beach.

Once you have finished dancing the night away, make your way back home for a few hours of sleep before the start of another glorious day in Canggu.

This guest post was contributed by Bali Villas. With extensive experience in servicing Australian clients, Bali Villas know the best villas in Canggu for exactly what families are looking for in terms of location, style, and pricing.

Each of their family-friendly villas situated on the beautiful island of Bali have been hand-picked by their ‘family expert’ so they’ll find the best villa in Canggu for you. Someone with children who knows exactly what families are looking for. 

Grab a spot on the beach or get to Tanah Lot early to get a good Canggu sunset viewing spot. | Benjamin Janos

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Pat Bailey

The stunning Samata Sanur on the quiet side of Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Getting to Bali

I arrived easily by plane from Bangkok where I was finishing a trip in Thailand. The Ngurah Rai International Airport is easily accessible and central to heading in all directions on the island of Bali.  You can easily taxi to Kuta, Seminyak and Ubud from here and I relied on taxis and personal drivers for my entire visit.

Bicycles, fast boats and mopeds are the main modes of transportation on Bali, I found it very easy to transfer from place to place and my only caution is to allow extra time for traffic and temple ceremonies which happen often an unexpected and cause delays and complete stand-stills.

You will receive a Visa on Arrival (VoA) when you arrive and you do not need an additional visa if you are visiting less than 30 days (check your own country’s requirements before leaving home).

Related: A First Timer’s Travel Guide to Bali

Related: Indonesia Photo Gallery

Fivelements is a quiet oasis just outside of Ubud Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

5 of the Best Luxury Hotels in Bali

Where to Stay in Ubud

Fivelements

The magic of my visit began with my arrival at Fivelements just south of Ubud, and it was the perfect welcome. This award-winning luxury resort is nestled on the banks of the Ayung River which provided the perfect backdrop for the theme of water which was prevalent throughout my entire visit to Bali, and an essential element of Bali and its culture.

Pat relaxes in her bath with a view to the Ayung River at Fivelements Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

The beauty of daily life at Fivelements Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Not only one of the best luxury hotels in Bali, Fivelements is a retreat-style sanctuary too, focused on Balinese healing, living foods and sacred arts, it is intimate and intentional. My two-day stay here was pure medicine in every way, with the invitation to “live well,” I was given authentic opportunities to attune my mind, body and spirit to the natural surroundings and breathe deeply and find peace.

I was led to my suite by a grass and stone path that meandered through the property and past the Sakit Dining Room, an open-air room with a river view, the Mandala Meeting Room and Sacred Spaces where both private and group events are hosted, and it was a pleasant surprise to hear the faint sounds of chimes along the walk coming from the property-wide music system which carried me straight to my suite, and into it even, as I was welcomed with the sound of soothing traditional healing music.

Fivelements Ubud is a true boutique hotel with a focus on wellness. Image © Pat Bailey

Fivelements encourages guests to unwind and let go. Image © Pat Bailey

There are nine exclusive suites on this property, each designed with inspiration from a sacred spiral which gives the space an open-air feeling. The décor of each suite and the property throughout includes Balinese “Songket” textiles and antiques which give it an authentic and old-world, traditional feeling. I felt at home instantly here.

Each suite contains a king-size bed which is positioned in the centre of the room and facing the river. The room opens in two directions; from the foot of the bed it opens out onto a private terrace overlooking the sacred Ayung River with a seating area and covered riverstone healing bathtub where I enjoyed a Sakti bath which included lemongrass, Balinese orange, lime, pandan leaves, ginger and Sakti bath oil with the sound and view of the river from where I was soaking. The sliding doors on the opposite side of the room open up to an alfresco bathroom including chromotherapy lighting, and a stone path rain shower.

Every detail of my stay was intentional, every staff member welcomed me with a loving bow and a hello and I was carefully looked after from the moment I arrived until my departure. The Core Values and Guiding Philosophies of this property are aligned with Balinese culture and the aim is to create a space and invitations for guests to transform their lives and live with more love. It was easy to be here with my heart wide open and in receiving mode.

I experienced my very first Melukat at Fivelements, a traditional Balinese water blessing and purification ceremony. The private ceremony took place in the Sacred Space and included a meditation with the temple priest. He prepared the holy water in a clay vase with flowers and incense and chanted mantras in Sanskrit. This was deeply emotional for me as I chant in my daily meditation and Bhakti practice and I felt very much like this was a homecoming. The “holy shower” was a beautiful experience that I highly recommend, and it was the perfect welcome to my two weeks in Bali. 

Fivelements promotes healing and relaxation in nature. Image © Pat Bailey

The Healing Village features eight private riverside healing rooms where the treatments take place, each one designed with an open-air river view that welcomed a perfect breeze along with private bathrooms and stone healing bathtubs. These sanctuaries are so quiet and so peaceful it is hard to leave.

The Watsu therapy pool, along with a large lap pool for relaxing and cooling off is located in the centre of the property. Both have massage jets, underwater music, and chromotherapy lighting; the decking surrounding the pools provides dappled shade for napping and the sound of the rushing river as a soothing backdrop.

The Bidadari Beauty Sanctuary and Boutique are available if you feel like splurging on any Balinese-inspired beauty and rejuvenation treatments for your body, face, nails and hair or souvenirs of your time spent here such as healing crystals, mala beads for japa, essential oils, etc.

I loved the Sakti Dining Room and the beautiful meals that I enjoyed there. The fine-dining atmosphere and healing cuisine described as “Living Foods” by the chef; comprising raw vegan options and other lightly prepared plant-based dishes. The dinner reservations are made and set each morning and the menu is prepared daily. I enjoyed a set five-course meal that was both healthy and delicious for dinner both nights, and the breakfasts were full of brightly coloured fruits and bowls filled with organic goodness. The menu and concept of Fivelements supports local farmers, sustainable agriculture and environmentally friendly products.

The property is private and secluded and tucked away in a small village that is a beautiful place to wander about if you are feeling like you want to explore. I walked to a nearby temple complex and just beyond it to some rice fields. You can easily arrange a taxi for exploring beyond a short walk but I found myself happily content with all that the property had to offer and invitations to push pause with plenty of tranquil areas to do this.

Read our full review of Fivelements

Related: Ubud Travel Guide

A private courtyard petal bath at Desa Visesa Ubud. Image © Pat Bailey

Enjoying the private villa pool at Desa Visesa Ubud Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Desa Visesa

Desa Visesa is located in Ubud, within short resort shuttle to many activities and shopping, this luxury resort property prides itself on honouring the past traditions of Balinese culture while adding modern luxury and plenty of healing, cultural and luxury experiences to invite guests to appreciate the essence of a Balinese village and daily life on the island.

I received my second Tri Datu bracelet as part of the welcome ceremony and blessing when I checked in to Desa Visesa. This gift was accompanied by a traditional Balinese rice blessing and an offering of the welcome drink while I waiting to be escorted to my villa. It was a lovely way to be welcomed to the resort and indicative of how I was treated the entire time.

The suites and villas that make up the property are intimate sanctuaries and mine was so generous and abundant that I did not want to leave. My One Bedroom Pool Villa is one of 35 units and is 124 square metres of space that includes a private floating walkway entrance, outdoor lounge area with stocked mini bar, private dipping pool with fountain, an enclosed bedroom with air conditioning and a canopy king-size bed, and a beautiful open-air bathroom with shower and deep soaking tub.

The villas at Desa Visesa offer perfect privacy with views over the rice paddies. Image © Pat Bailey

I love that the villas and suites at Desa Visesa are designed into the natural landscape of Ubud, my villa was located beside the property’s temple and with a field of rice flanking it which created incredible privacy and the most lush and beautiful views. I enjoyed breakfast and lunch by the pool, and a traditional flower bath in the bathtub during my stay, the space was luxurious and each guest is provided with their very own 24-hour butler room service.

There is plenty to do at Desa Viseas, the property has designed experiences of all kinds that invite guests to participate in traditional Balinese culture, as well as five-star luxury experiences on the property that take advantage of the land and a staff of local experts. Everything from making offerings to cow bathing as well as farming and permaculture activities with plenty of things to do for children of all ages too. Guests can find the daily schedule in their rooms and on a board in the lobby, and many activities are included in the stay. Additional luxury experiences including a private picnic in the rice fields on property which I enjoyed, village cycling and yoga as well as making gebogan and learning Balinese dancing can be booked when you arrive.

The gorgeous green grounds at Desa Visesa Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Property shuttles leave on the half-hour from the lobby and take guests into downtown Ubud for shopping and exploring which I did both days that I stayed at Desa Viseas. I highly recommend visiting the various markets in town where you can purchase beautiful handmade bags, and other local textiles.

One of the highlights of my stay was an incredibly delicious five-course vegetarian meal at one of the property’s four restaurants. I was led down the candlelight path from the lobby into the courtyard and grand entrance of the Padi Fine Dining experience where I was greeted with my very own mixologist who mixed a welcome table-side cocktail for me. Every course was served with care and meticulous detail. The food was tremendously delicious and innovative, fresh and organic flavours, fully vegetarian and plated with artistic perfection.

A caviar of legumes, salt and sugar-crusted beets, hand-pulled cheese burrata, pickled green asparagus, wild grilled taro roots, smoked aubergine and the list went on and on. This meal was not only the highlight of my stay at Desa Visesa, but it was also one of the most beautiful meals of my life. I watch the Chef and his team in the open kitchen as they created each dish, and I was pampered with wine paired perfectly with each course. The final course, a chocolate dessert was served with pretty candies in a box for me to take with me to my room.

We enjoyed a delicious five-course meal at Desa Visesa Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

There is plenty to explore on the property of Desa Visesa as well. The main pool just beyond the lobby is a beautiful hideaway spot with dappled light and loungers for resting, lounging and napping even. A raised garden with paths and a large stone Buddha can be found just above the pool area, you can wander into the rice fields and along paths leading to the spa and pavilions where events take place, you can even take bicycles or a staff-driven cart around to explore.

Every morning just outside my villa door in a nook to the right of my door I found incense burning and a small offering tucked inside, the nightly turn-down service left my room with the curtains drawn and slippers waiting for me to slip into. It was so hard to leave this property after a few days feeling right at home here.

During my stay at Desa Visesa I hired a local guide to drive me to the Bali Swing, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the Tirta Empul Temple. I participated in a purification ceremony at the most famous temple in Bali with many other visitors and stood in awe of the rice terraces which took my breath away.

Related: Best Bali Cafes: A Healthy Eating Guide

A romantic petal bath at Tugu Hotel Canggu Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Quiet moments at Tugu Hotel Canggu Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Where to Stay in Canggu

Tugu Hotel Canggu

I arrived at Tugu Hotel Canggu delighted to find this hideaway property located in the middle of the vibrant beach village. “Tugu” means monument in the Indonesian language. There are three Tugu Hotels in Indonesia, founded by Anhar Setjadibrata who is the owner of the biggest collection of fine Indonesian art and cultural antiquities in Indonesia. He designed the boutique hotels to house his collection and to share it with the world, and being surrounded by this collection is one of many things that makes a stay at Tugu Hotel extra special.

Tugu Hotel is the perfect hideaway in peaceful Canggu Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

This Tugu Hotel property is located in Canggu, just a short walk to Canggu Beach. It is on the southwest coast of Bali, 30 minutes from the Ngurah Rai International Airport and 15 minutes from Seminyak. There is a lot to explore in every direction from this property, and the vibration here was very different from Fivelements. The property is expansive but maintains an intimate feeling with secret pathways, gardens, ponds, bridges and water features along with the main pool with a wall of sculptural fountains pouring into it. There are plenty of places to find solace and many invitations to be social as well.

Nothing could prepare me for the indulgence I found when I opened the large antique doors into my own private courtyard, tropical gardens with coy pond, suite and private splash pool. The Dedari Suite was decadent in every way. The main suite with canopy king-size bed, seating areas, desk, TV and wardrobes provided ample space for me. The splash pool just beyond the suite area was my favourite for lounging on the hanging day bed, the one in-room breakfast I enjoyed and private skinny dipping in the late afternoon and evenings. 

A bathroom with a view to the private courtyard in our villa at Tugu Hotel Canggu Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

But, it was the bathroom that had me squealing. The private spa area showcased a unique sunken bath in an open-air room with antique doors that opened out into the coy pond and private courtyard. I could see the coy happily splashing about during each shower and bath and I enjoyed a really incredible traditional Balinese flower bath one afternoon by candlelight. The hand-painted terra-cotta tiles juxtaposed with the antique wooden patina of the little doors that opened beyond the bathtub made the space charming and cozy.

Breakfast by the pool at Tugu Hotel Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

There are three restaurants on the property which makes leaving a hard option. Tugu Bali Restaurant located in the open-air hall of Wantilan Agung which is majestic in its own right and full of enchanting nooks and crannies to find a cozy, romantic spot for two or to enjoy the best spot in Canggu to watch the sunset from the rooftop terrace. The menu includes an eclectic selection of fresh seafood and a mix of gourmet continental cuisine with a blend of Asian and Indonesian influences. I enjoyed a sunset aperitif with sushi one night and it was perfect. The Ji Terrace by the Sea is a whimsical and cozy spot for a really beautiful experience of the playful blending of Indonesia, Japan, India and Thailand. The menu is inspired by Japanese and Asian dishes and the Pad Thai was my very favourite. This space is transformed at sunset with a DJ, locals and visitors who enjoy the ambience well into the evening. The third dining option is Ji at Bale Sutra, this exquisite experience takes place in an ornate and elegant dark wooden temple, originally a family temple that was used for generations and found by the owner of Tugu. The temple dining room is lavish and oozing with red walls and large prints and antiques that spill out in every direction. The menu is inspired by centuries-old cooking traditions from Japan, as well as other East Asian countries.

In addition to the formal dining options, guests can order meals on the lawn and beside the pool and every afternoon guests can participate in high tea in the bar just off the lobby. 

Breakfast by the pool at Tugu Hotel Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Friendly fish in my personal pond at my Tugu Hotel villa in Canggu Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

I enjoyed one of the best massages of my life at Tugu Hotel. I received a Chakra Opening Massage with Healing Mantra, it was a beautiful blend of medicine and healing and I will never forget it. The healer heated soothing herbal oils and applied them to my body while chanting mantras, I was also given a rice blessing and water purification ceremony. The authenticity of the experience moved me, the healer was so loving and beautiful and I left feeling so full of love.

Related: What to do in Seminyak Bali

The Amala is an oasis tucked away near all the buzz of Seminyak Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Where to Stay in Seminyak

The Amala

The Amala, was the first of two Lifestyle Retreats sister hotels I would enjoy. The Amala, a five-star luxury resort, is tucked away in the heart of Seminyak; and while it is literally in the centre of big activity in Seminyak, as soon as you arrive you are welcomed into a calm and pace that the space dictates and that pace is very slow.

Bamboo walls and floating stone pathways lead you from the busy outside world into the tranquility of The Amala, passing various property temples, shrines and spirit houses which are adorned with devotion several times a day.  Beyond the open-air lobby you wander into a series of open spaces: the six table dining room which is the heart of the property, a beautiful lap pool joined by a bamboo footbridge, and open air kitchen and lounge area where Balinese Cooking Classes are hosted, and the intimate Pool Villas just beyond this. The guest library is a closed room with air conditioning and fast WiFi, and just off the pool with a glimpse of it from where you can read and work. There are plenty of cozy places to lounge by the public pool, and the dining room is flanked on all sides with private spa rooms and an open-air spa lobby.

The stunning private pool at The Amala Seminyak. Image © Pat Bailey

Beautiful food is served at The Amala; the Bamboo Restaurant continues the theme of “health-through-harmony” specializing in organic, raw foods which echo the property’s holistic wellness approach. It was easy to be a vegetarian at The Amala, everything was fresh and delicious.

My Spa Villa was a grand, indulgent space of 120sqm with a private pool and open-air bathtub courtyard. The kitchen and dining areas were perfect for in-room dining. 

The grand four-poster bed at The Amala Seminyak. Image © Pat Bailey

I enjoyed a traditional Balinese Flower Bath upon my arrival and rinsed off in the rain shower complete with spa-like steam and beautiful herbal aromatherapy sacks for extra effect. Choose between the wild herbs, green tea or spiced citrus. The plunge jet-pool was the perfect temperature for cooling off and so private I barely wore a swimsuit, perfectly situated under a shade tree that created the most amazing dappled light and cool shade during the day.

The huge open air bathroom at The Amala Seminyak. Image © Pat Bailey

A glass-like house just beyond the courtyard opened up to my suite which included a generous canopy king-size bed, seating areas and bathroom. The room, transformed each night with turn down, is surrounded by velvety floor-to-ceiling curtains that create a cocoon-like feeling, perfect for a deep sleep.

It was easy to find plenty of things to do both on and off property at The Amala, I enjoyed a beautiful Balinese Massage in the spa with traditional foot bath one day and wandered into town by property driver for coffee and shopping on the second day. There is plenty to do nearby and plenty of reasons to stay put and leave your To Do List for another day. This property was so peaceful and so intimate.

Read our full review of The Amala Seminyak

Related: Bali’s Best Coworking Spaces

The stunning blue green central swimming pool at the Samata retreat-style hotel in Sanur, Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Where to Stay in Sanur

The Samata

I arrived at The Samata completely blissed out, and the luxury continued with this second Lifestyle Retreats property. Like Amala this villa resort is intimate with unique rooms and villas and incredible common areas. “Samata” is a Sanskrit word meaning the state of equilibrium between body, mind and spirit. The property is small which means you feel the extra attention from the staff and the community and there are invitations to find balance everywhere.

The perfect spot to think and unwind at the Samata Sanur. Image © Pat Bailey

Located in Sanur, this property is a short distance from many temples, shops and cafes, day trips and adventures. I took a special trip with the property healer to a nearby local temple for a traditional Balinese Purification Ceremony. Otherwise, I found myself completely content with a private Balinese Cooking Class and plenty of one-on-one instruction from the chef, and a traditional palm reading and numerology report.

Pat enjoys the Samata pool all to herself. Image © Pat Bailey

The dining room at the Samata Sanur, Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

My 75sqm Ocean View Suite was absolutely perfect. Located on the top floor facing the ocean and property pool this room was generous with a one-of-a-kind view. The view boasts a perfect aerial shot of the main pool, emerald-green gardens, lush rice fields just beyond the property and the Indian Ocean in the distance. The view is enjoyed from a terrace spanning the entire length of the suite and including built-in loungers for private sun bathing. It was the absolute perfect spot to watch the epic sunrises and sunsets. This suite includes a canopy king-size bed, desk, lounging area and a super chic, modern bathroom with a dark stone bathtub big enough for two.

The gorgeous canopy-king bed in our suite at the Samata Sanur Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

The oversized kitchen with a view to the gardens at the Samata Sanur Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

There are three pools on the property, the main pool which looks like it could be in a spread in Architectural Digest with clear modern lines and the signature of the property, a generous lap pool beside the main pool, and a pool located in the spa and wellness area. The Samata is Bali’s only health and fitness resort. 

The spa includes four treatment rooms and an expert staff with a beautiful menu of traditional massage and treatments, attached is the wellness centre which offers yoga, meditation, and a variety of physical programs led by the on-property staff. Both public and private classes can be booked daily. The equipment here is bar none with a Muay Thai ring and plenty of weights and cardio and a personal trainer to guide you along.

I enjoyed two activities that I loved during my stay, the first was a traditional Balinese Palm Reading with Bagus, the property healer and Wellness Centre Manager, and the second was a private cooking class with the property’s Chef where I learned how to make traditional Balinese favourites with a vegetarian twist. The cooking class was followed by a beautiful feast of our creations in the Zenso Restaurant and I was given a Cooking Class certificate, commemorative Samata Sanur apron and the recipes to try on my own at home.

Breakfast with a view at the Samata Sanur Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

The results of our wonderful cooking class at the Samata Sanur Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

My favourite part of my stay at The Samata was a visit to a nearby local temple for an authentic purification ceremony which was performed by the temple priest. I was accompanied by Bagus, who helped me prepare for the visit in traditional Balinese sarong and top, and his wife also prepared the traditional temple offerings for my ceremony. The temple is one that not many tourists know about or visit, but it is a special temple for purification because it is located five minutes from The Samata, on the coast where the river water and ocean water meet. Bagus led me through the temple explaining every detail as I participated in the traditional ceremony and I will never forget how special and deeply meaningful it was for me.  I received the first of two Tri Datu at this temple. Tri Datu is a unique Balinese bracelet made up of three colours of yarn: red, white and black. Balinese believe these yarn bracelets have magic powers, the red yarn represents Brahma, the black represents Vishnu and the white represents Shiva Tri Datu is also the symbol of Tri Kona (Birth, Life and Death) and has become a common reminder for the Balinese people of the greatness of God and the value of life. It was and still is a huge honour to wear this bracelet, especially as a reminder of this sacred ceremony at this special temple.

Read our full review of The Samata Sanur

The Fit Traveller was a guest of these properties. All words, opinions and images are authentically our own.

A pensive moment at The Amala Seminyak Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Floating breakfast at Desa Visesa in Ubud, Bali. Image © Pat Bailey

Pat Russo

Pat Russo is a Mystic, Muse, and Spiritual Teacher guiding women into their hearts with a journey of softening. She is a published poet, a lover of hearts, and a forever student.

Feeling the impossibility of choosing between her two favorite cities, she considers San Francisco and Paris home.

www.patricia-russo.com/