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The Ultimate Bali Holiday Guide

66 items

Chrissy Evans

From jungle mornings in Ubud to sunset drinks in Seminyak and dramatic cliffs in Uluwatu, these are the Bali places I’d make time for on a holiday.

Map

Sections

Must Visit Places & Attractions

Bali & Nearby Island Escapes

Best Hotels & Resorts in Bali

Best Beach Clubs & Sunset Spots

Bali Beaches I’d Put on the Itinerary

Must Visit Places & Attractions

I wouldn’t go all the way to Bali just to stay by the beach and the pool. These are the places I’d make time for when I want to see the landscapes, culture and scenery that make the island so memorable.

The dramatic cliffside setting alone makes this worth putting on the itinerary. I’d time my visit around sunset so I could take in the ocean views and experience the famous Kecak performance.

Uluwatu Temple

This is one of those Bali sights I’d absolutely want to see in person. The temple sitting offshore with the waves around it makes for such a beautiful sunset stop.

Tanah Lot

I’d put this on my Ubud day because it combines nature, temples and one of Bali’s most recognizable experiences. The forest itself makes the walk feel completely different from exploring the town.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

I’d go here when I want something more cultural and impressive than another beach day. The enormous Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue is something I’d definitely want to see up close.

Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

For something more adventurous, I’d make the trip north. The waterfalls and surrounding greenery give you a completely different side of Bali from the busy southern beaches.

Aling-Aling Waterfall

These are the experiences I’d make time for when I want to see a different side of Bali, from sunrise on the north coast to wildlife, waterfalls and beautiful natural scenery.

Lovina Dolphin Watching

I’d visit early when the rice terraces are quieter and the light is beautiful. It’s one of those Bali landscapes I’d want to see in person.

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

I’d visit for the beautiful temple complex and traditional purification experience. It’s a great place to slow down and experience a more cultural side of Bali.

Pura Tirta Empul

I’d make the trip here for the unique cave-like setting. When the sunlight comes through the opening above the waterfall, it’s especially beautiful.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

This is one I’d absolutely put on my Bali bucket list. The temple sitting on Lake Beratan with the mountains behind it is such a beautiful scene.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

I’d stop here while exploring the Bedugul area. The traditional gate with the mountains behind it makes for such a recognizable Bali photo.

Bali Handara Gate

I’d visit for the mountain and lake views. It’s a nice stop when I want something scenic and completely different from the coastline.

Wanagiri Hidden Hill Bali

I’d go for the incredible mountain views and the famous temple gates. I’d just make sure I’m visiting for the whole temple experience, not only the photo.

Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple

I’d definitely make the trip here for the beautiful natural pool and lush surroundings. It’s exactly the kind of hidden jungle experience I look for in Bali.

Banyumala Waterfall

I’d choose Pemuteran for a quiet beach escape with excellent snorkeling and diving nearby. It’s perfect when I want a few days away from Bali’s busier areas.

Pemuteran

Bali & Nearby Island Escapes

If you have extra days, I’d definitely go beyond Bali’s main tourist areas. These are the places I’d look at when I want a quieter beach, beautiful underwater scenery, a slower island vibe, or a completely different side of Indonesia.

I’d choose Ubud when I want the greener, calmer side of Bali. Between the rice terraces, temples, cafés and wellness spots, it’s the place I’d give myself a few slow days rather than rushing through.

Ubud

I’d put Uluwatu high on my Bali list for the dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches and incredible sunsets. It’s especially good when I want a mix of relaxing by the ocean and exploring.

Uluwatu

Amed is where I’d go when I want to escape the busier parts of Bali. I love the idea of waking up near the sea, enjoying the slower fishing village atmosphere and spending the day snorkeling or diving.

Amed

I’d definitely make time for Nusa Penida if I wanted those dramatic Bali postcard views. The cliffs, turquoise water and famous beaches make it feel completely different from mainland Bali.

Penida Island

I’d choose Gili Trawangan when I want a little more energy and nightlife. It’s perfect for a few fun days of beach time, snorkeling, sunset drinks and exploring the island by bike.

Gili Trawangan

For a quieter island escape, Gili Meno would be my pick. I’d go here when I want fewer crowds, beautiful water and a really slow couple of days.

Gili Meno island

I love the idea of Gili Air for that balance between peaceful and lively. I’d spend my days snorkeling, walking around the island and finding a little beachfront spot for sunset.

Gili Air

I’d add Nusa Lembongan when I want island life without going too far from Bali. It’s a great option for beaches, snorkeling, ocean views and a more relaxed pace.

Nusa Lembongan

I’d make the trip to Menjangan Island when I want to see one of the quieter and more beautiful underwater sides of Bali. The clear water, coral reefs and incredible marine life make it a great choice for a snorkeling or diving day.

Menjangan Island

Best Hotels & Resorts in Bali

Where you stay can completely change your Bali experience. I’d look for somewhere that gives me beautiful surroundings, great service and enough of that Bali feeling that I actually enjoy spending time at the hotel too.

This is the kind of resort I’d choose when I want a full Bali resort experience without having to leave the property much. The ocean views, pools, spa and famous sunset setting make it feel like a destination on its own.

AYANA Resort Bali

I’d pick this for a more polished, luxurious beach holiday. It’s the kind of place I’d choose when I want beautiful surroundings, a quieter atmosphere and plenty of time to simply relax.

The St. Regis Bali Resort

This is the kind of stay I’d choose when I want Bali to feel completely immersive. The jungle setting and beautifully designed tents make the hotel itself feel like part of the adventure.

Capella Ubud, Bali

I love this for a quieter Ubud escape. It has that peaceful jungle atmosphere I’d want after spending a day exploring temples, rice terraces and the town.

Ubud Luxury Resort | COMO Uma Ubud

This would be high on my list for a first Bali trip because Seminyak puts restaurants, shopping and beach time within easy reach. I also love the colorful, stylish feel of the property.

Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach by IHG

I’d pick this when I want the beach right there but still want a more polished resort experience. It’s a great combination of relaxing by the ocean and having Canggu’s cafés and restaurants nearby.

COMO Uma Canggu

For a slower, more restorative Bali trip, this is the kind of place I’d save for. I love the idea of combining beautiful surroundings with a proper wellness focused stay.

The Asa Maia | Luxury Wellness Retreat

I love the idea of staying somewhere with a proper tropical resort feel and easy beach access. This would be high on my list for a relaxing Nusa Dua escape.

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali

I’d choose this when the ocean view is a priority. Uluwatu’s cliffs and sunsets are already incredible, and staying somewhere overlooking the coastline makes the whole experience even better.

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort

I’d choose this when convenience matters. It’s a good option if I want easy access to the beach, restaurants and the airport without committing to a super luxury resort.

The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali

I’d choose this when I want to slow down and experience a much quieter side of Bali. Amed is perfect for snorkeling, diving and sunrise views, so I’d rather stay somewhere where I can enjoy that atmosphere.

Mathis Lodge, Amed

I love the idea of a smaller beachfront property for an Amed trip. I’d choose it for a relaxed few days of snorkeling, sunset watching and doing very little.

emOcean Beach Boutique Resort

I’d pick this when I want the quiet, green side of Bali rather than the busy resort areas. The setting makes it feel like somewhere I’d genuinely want to slow down for a few days.

The Damai Resort | Bali's Secluded Luxury in Lovina

I’d save Munduk for when I want mountains, misty mornings and lush greenery instead of the beach. The cooler highland setting would make a beautiful contrast to South Bali.

Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort

I’d choose this when I want to get properly away from the busy Bali areas. It would be especially appealing for a trip focused on diving, snorkeling and exploring the quieter northwest.

Mimpi Resort Menjangan

I’d put this on my list for a peaceful nature-focused escape. The location makes it feel very different from the beach club side of Bali.

Naya Gawana Resort and Spa

I’d choose this for a special, intimate Ubud escape. The traditional Balinese-inspired setting makes the stay feel much more connected to the destination.

Amandari Luxury Hotel & Resort in Ubud

Best Beach Clubs & Sunset Spots

Bali sunsets are one of the things I’d never rush. These are the places I’d choose when I want a beautiful afternoon by the ocean that can easily turn into sunset drinks and dinner.

I’d choose Atlas when I want something big, lively and very Bali. It’s the sort of place I’d go with friends for a full day of swimming, music and sunset.

Atlas Beach Club

This would be one of my first picks for a Seminyak afternoon. I love the idea of spending a few hours by the pool, watching the sunset and staying for dinner rather than rushing somewhere else.

Potato Head Beach Club

If I wanted the energetic, social side of Bali, this is the one I’d pick. The pools, music and beachfront setting make it perfect for a full afternoon rather than just a quick drink.

FINNS Beach Club

I’d definitely make time for this when staying in Amed. It’s the kind of spot I’d want to end the day slowly, taking in the coastline and watching the sky change as the sun goes down.

Sunset Point Amed Bali

I love the more tropical, laid-back feel here. I’d choose it for a relaxed afternoon when I want cocktails, food and a beautiful setting without making the whole day too intense.

Azul Beach Club Bali

This is the kind of beach club I’d choose for a slower afternoon. The beachfront setting makes it easy to settle in, order something good and simply watch the day turn into sunset.

Mari Beach Club Bali

I’d choose this for the combination of a beautiful cliffside setting and ocean views. It would be one of my picks for a more polished sunset afternoon around Melasti.

White Rock Beach Club

I’d pick this when I want a beautiful clifftop setting with a more luxurious feel. The views alone would make me want to stay until the sun disappears.

El Kabron Bali - Luxury Beach Club and Oceanfront

I’d put this high on my list for a special evening. Being perched over the ocean makes sunset here feel much more dramatic than a regular beach bar.

Rock Bar

This would be one of my picks for a more sophisticated sunset. I’d come for golden hour and stay for dinner rather than treating it as just another beach stop.

Kudeta

I’d choose this when I want more of a pool-day atmosphere. It’s a fun option for spending the afternoon swimming, relaxing and staying through sunset.

Mrs Sippy

I’d keep this one in mind for an easy, casual sunset without making the evening too complicated. Sometimes all I want is a beachfront seat and a beautiful sky.

SUNSET BEACH BALI

I’d pick La Brisa when I want something more relaxed and bohemian. The beachside setting makes it one of my favorite types of places for a slow sunset.

La Brisa Bali

I’d come here for a more laid-back sunset with my feet near the sand. It’s a nice choice when I want the Canggu atmosphere without committing to an all day party.

The Lawn Canggu Beach Club

I’d go here when I want a stylish pool day that carries into sunset. It’s especially appealing when I want music and atmosphere without necessarily going full party mode.

Café del Mar Bali

I’d choose this for a slower beach day in Sanur. It’s a nice option when I want to relax by the water without the party atmosphere of Canggu.

Segara Sanur Beach Club

I’d absolutely save this for sunset. The beach setting and relaxed island atmosphere make it one of those places where I’d want to stay until the last bit of light disappears.

Sandy Bay Beach Club

I’d go here when I want an easy island sunset after exploring Nusa Penida. It’s a nice way to finish a busy sightseeing day without rushing back to the harbor.

Agung Beach Club

Bali Beaches I’d Put on the Itinerary

Bali has so many different beaches that I wouldn’t choose just one. I’d pick based on the mood, swimming, surfing, sunset, or simply finding somewhere beautiful to spend the afternoon.

I’d go here when I want a quieter beach day with beautiful turquoise water and dramatic cliffs around me. The slightly more secluded feel makes it especially appealing when I want to escape the crowds.

Pantai Gunung Payung

I’d put Suluban on my list for its unique cliffside setting and surf atmosphere. Walking through the rocky passages to reach the beach makes getting there feel like part of the experience.

Suluban Beach

I love the more laid-back surf atmosphere here. I’d spend the day exploring the little cafés and beach spots before watching the sunset.

Bingin Beach

The limestone cliffs and clear water make this one especially photogenic. I’d go when I want a beautiful beach day without staying in the main resort areas.

Melasti Beach

The small cove and dramatic cliffs make this one I’d definitely want to see. It has that classic hidden Bali-beach feeling.

Padang Padang Beach

I’d choose Echo Beach for the Canggu atmosphere, surf, cafés, sunset and that relaxed Bali energy all in one place.

Echo Beach, Canggu

I’d choose Nusa Dua when I want calmer water and a more relaxed beach day. It’s especially appealing when I just want to swim, lie down and do absolutely nothing.

Nusa Dua Beach