Best places to visit in Bali: Top 6 destinations for your travel itinerary
It’s no surprise that Bali remains one of the most popular travel destinations for Australians. Not just for its party vibe and sprawling beaches, but also its proximity. You can get a flight from Aussie shores and be there in under seven hours! Australians visiting Bali may be drawn to this multifaceted haven for a variety of reasons – ancient temples, tasty cuisine, world-class surfing, shopping and wellness retreats to name a few. So, whether it’s your first time visiting Bali or you’re looking for new locales to explore, our list has you covered. Read on to discover where to go in Bali, the best time of year to visit and more.
1. Canggu
Nestled into Bali's southern coast, Canggu has emerged as a trendy destination that seamlessly blends laid-back vibes with a vibrant surf and wellness culture. Its black sand beaches, such as Echo Beach and Batu Bolong Beach, are perfect for catching waves or simply enjoying a breathtaking sunset. You’ll also want to explore the vibrant Berawa area, known for its hip boutiques and family-friendly facilities like Finns Recreation Club.
2. Ubud
When you’re feeling a little beached out, escape to the jungle and world-class retreats of Ubud. This town sits amongst rainforest and river valleys and provides a welcome escape from the Indonesian humidity. Ubud is home to some of the most interesting places in Bali – from serene temples to sprawling rice paddies and phenomenally lush surrounds. It’s also Bali’s spa capital, so if you’re wanting to transform your skin, hair or even your mental outlook, Ubud is a must-see.
3. Uluwatu
A surfer’s paradise, Uluwatu is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Popular favourites include Balangan Beach (although hard to get to) and Green Bowl Beach, both known for their sparkling waters.
Bali is known as the ‘Island of the Gods’, and nowhere is this more evident than Uluwatu, with stunning temples everywhere you look. The absolute must-visit here is the Uluwatu Temple Complex. Set on a cliff’s edge overlooking the ocean, it’s one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in all of Bali.
Uluwatu is also famous for its spectacular sunsets. Every beach on the island offers its own jaw-dropping viewpoint, but a particularly good spot is Single Fin, a laid-back beach shack that will keep you well supplied with snacks as you settle into your most memorable sunset ever.
4. Sanur
With its golden sandy beaches and calm waters, Sanur is perfect for swimming, leisurely strolls along the promenade and plenty of Bali sightseeing. Explore the enchanting Pura Blanjong Temple for its ancient inscriptions, or browse the nearby Le Mayeur Museum which showcases the artwork of Belgian painter Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur.
The Sindhu Night Market boasts a bustling atmosphere with local food stalls and vibrant handicrafts. For a touch of nature, the Mangrove Information Centre will send you through lush mangrove forests unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
5. Seminyak
Considered a more sophisticated sister to Kuta, Seminyak maintains all the rustic charm of a traditional Balinese town while also offering an array of high-end boutiques, beach homeware stores and upscale restaurants. Browse designer boutiques on Jalan Raya such as Biasa, purveyors of fashion with Indonesian inspired aesthetics and craftsmanship.
Seminyak nightlife also has a more stylish vibe, with the iconic Potato Head Beach Club a long-standing Balinese institution, with its kooky design, luxe beachside lounges and extensive cocktail list making it a popular choice.
6. Kuta
As the tourist capital of Bali, Kuta’s reputation as a metropolitan sprawl bustling with as many tourists as locals isn’t altogether incorrect, but it certainly has its own charm. Indeed, many would call Kuta one of the most interesting places in Bali to visit. You can’t help but be swept up in the tropical excitement and the buzzing nightlife here. Home to affordable accommodation, Kuta is a great place to embrace upbeat Balinese life before venturing further afield for a more zen experience.
Best temples to visit in Bali
Countless temples throughout Bali showcase its rich cultural heritage and offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the island's spiritual beauty.
Besakih Temple, known as the ‘Mother Temple of Bali’, is a majestic complex situated on the slopes of Mount Agung. This significant Hindu temple delivers breathtaking views and spiritual tranquillity in spades. Explore its shrines, courtyards and complex staircases while admiring the intricate architecture and stone carvings.
For something quite different, Tanah Lot Temple is an iconic sea temple that stands proudly on a rock formation above crashing waves below. This dramatic setting makes it one of Bali's most popular landmarks, especially during sunset. You can witness traditional ceremonies here, search the sacred cave for ‘holy snakes’, or simply enjoy the mesmerising view.
Other places to visit in Bali
In the mood for even more of Bali's natural beauty and cultural heritage? Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a breathtaking spot that showcases the island's iconic rice fields. Nestled among rich green hills, these terraces are a testament to Bali's ancient agricultural traditions. Explore the terraced fields on foot or by bike, marvelling at the amazing irrigation system and human ingenuity.
Then there’s the Ubud Monkey Forest. This lush sanctuary is home to more than 1,200 mischievous macaque monkeys. It’s a unique opportunity to watch these playful creatures interact while immersing yourself in a place lost to time. Just be careful to hold onto your valuables! There are also nearby attractions after you’ve finished, like the Ubud Traditional Art Market and the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terrace.
Best time of year to visit Bali
It’s no coincidence that Bali is a tropical tourist hotspot: the weather is reliably sunny and warm all year round. As it sits close to the equator, the monsoon season might not drop in temperature, but it will definitely bring the rain – so stick to the dry months of May to October as the best time to travel to Bali. For those looking to catch a wave, this time is also considered best for top surfing conditions. When planning your trip to Bali, keep an eye on the latest travel alerts and consider preparing for your journey with international travel insurance.
Your Bali sightseeing adventure is just a flight away! Before you starting thinking about the best time of year to go to Bali, read our Bali destination guide to learn about pre-visit vaccination requirements and more.
