About Bali

When thinking about the top tropical paradises in the world, many will include Bali, Indonesia. Dubbed the "Island of the Gods," Bali boasts natural wonders that would certainly make you feel like you're living in "heaven on Earth!" 

Located in south-central Indonesia, Bali sits in the Coral Triangle. Among the many reasons, tourists flock to the province for the hundreds of coral species and marine life in the Balinese waters.  

Experience the abundant culture and spirit in Bali for your summer getaway! Here is a guide to the best food, a must-visit itinerary, and how to get around Bali, Indonesia.

What can I do in Bali?

• Visit the temples of Bali 

Bali earned the name "Island of the Gods" due to the number of Hindu temples on the island. Balinese locals believe these temples to be where the gods reside. These beautiful temples capture the hearts and souls of all the tourists that come to visit! 

You've surely seen the famous "Gates of Heaven" in the Lempuyang Temple. This temple, standing at 1175 meters above sea level, lets you admire the beauty of Bali from a stunning perspective. If you appreciate taking an Instagrammable photo during your Bali getaway, you cannot miss a trip to this temple. 

Another equally breathtaking temple is Pura Tanah Lot in the Tabanan Regency. This natural rock formation meets the comforting waves of the sea, making it an ideal spot to watch the Balinese sunset. The entrance fee for foreign tourists only costs 60,000 IDR! 

• Relax in Bali’s best beaches

Bali's world-class beaches and calming waters are among the many reasons the island became Asia's favorite getaway. Sitting near the equator, this tropical wonderland has idyllic beach weather all year round! Whether you're looking for a family-friendly beach or the liveliest place for parties by the sea, there's a perfect place for you in Bali!

Many of the beaches in Bali do not have an entrance fee. But if you're looking for the most luxurious spots and powder-fine sands, you should book a stay in one of Bali's exquisite resorts. 

Seminyak Beach is famous for having the best beach clubs in Bali. If you're excited about the most colorful parties and the best food during their Bali trip, make sure to include Seminyak in your itinerary. 

If you're looking for a more "low key" beach that humbly boasts the natural wonders of Bali, you'll love Green Bowl Beach. This serene escapade is tucked away from the busy areas of Bali, making it a good destination for visitors looking for a "less touristy" spot on the island. 

• Shop ‘til you drop in Bali’s Shopping Streets

Bali is a haven for true blue shopaholics. More than your usual souvenirs and memorabilia, the island is home to affordable fashion stores, specialty shops, and unique art outlets. 

One of its best shopping streets, Jalan Raya Ubud, features affordable fashion stores and culturally significant textiles that are soulful products of Balinese culture. For art collectors looking for the most prized pieces on the island, pay a visit to one of the antique stores in the area. 

Bali's best products go beyond visual art and fashionable pieces. Head over to Jalan Raya Seminyak for a gastronomic adventure in Bali! Here, you'll find the best taste of Balinese cuisine in the district. 

Most of the shopping districts in Bali are within walking distance or a short ride from its famous beaches and tourist hotspots. So you wouldn't need to worry about going out of your way for the best shopping experience in town!

• Snorkel, dive, and surf in Bali’s clear waters

There is more to Bali's beaches than its stunning shorelines. Beneath the waters live one of the most biodiverse marine life worldwide! You can witness different species of the majestic stingray, a variety of brilliantly colored fish, and numerous coral species. 

One of the top diving areas is Menjangan Island on northwestern Bali. An unforgettable one-on-one experience with the large schools of fish and vibrant coral reefs will surely leave a smile on your face! 

If you're a watersports fan and love fun-filled activities, try surfing in the famous Uluwatu in southern Bali! The waves on this beach come loaded and fast, making it ideal for more experienced surfers. 

When is the best time to visit Bali?

Indonesia, like most Southeast Asian tropical countries, only has two seasons (wet and dry). Typically the wet season in Bali starts from April to September, while October to March often has rain. 

You'll find the ideal tropical weather from July to August. However, these months are also the peak seasons for a Bali vacation. Expect higher accommodation rates and bigger crowds in the best tourist spots on the island during this season. If you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices, the best time to visit Bali is during its lean season, which falls between October and March. However, this is also the rainy season, so be prepared for occasional showers and high humidity.

How to get from the airport to town? 

While there are plenty of ways of getting to the busy areas of Bali from the Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, Denpasar, many suggest renting a private car transfer from the airport. Renting a car is ideal if you're expecting to arrive in Bali at a late hour. For those traveling with their families or a bigger group, (110,000 IDR) cost of a private transfer is a good value.

You can also opt for a taxi ride to your hotel from the airport. However, a cab ride can cost more than a private transfer. It is convenient to book a taxi at Denpasar airport. You can simply request a ride from their official taxi counter and they will arrange a fixed price to your destination. 

How to get around Bali?

• Online taxi

Taxi rides come cheap in Bali, and online taxis are also convenient to book in the area. You have two main options for cab-hailing apps in the area - Bluebird App and Grab. 

Bluebird App is a well-established brand in Bali, with over 20,000 vehicles roaming the island. While a ride from Bluebird may cost you a little more than other alternatives, its reliability in getting you from your hotel to the next point of interest is unrivaled. A ride from the airport can cost you anywhere from (100,000 IDR) to (800,000 IDR). Grab is a (somewhat) newcomer in Bali's online taxi industry. But what sets Grab apart from the rest is its cheap rates. A taxi ride with Grab from the airport to the bustling district of Seminyak starts at (70,000 IDR.).

• Car rentals

If you're fond of driving or you simply want to get your money's worth - you can rent a car for your Bali vacation. There are plenty of car rental companies in Bali that offer a daily rate starting at (450,000 IDR). The good thing is, all cars in Bali are right-hand drive. So you wouldn't need to adjust or have your hands in a twist if you choose to drive around the island. 

• Scooter

Motor taxis are now the easiest way to get around in the Southeast Asian region. If you're a solo traveler looking for the fastest and cheapest transport in and out of your hotel, book an ojek. Ojeks (a local term for the motor taxi) used to be either unofficial or unregulated. But nowadays, you can hail a motor taxi through Gojek, an online ojek-hailing app. An ojek ride can cost anywhere from (40,000 IDR) to (100,000 IDR), depending on your destination.

• Bicycle

Bali, being famous for its natural scenery, also takes good care of its environment. If you're looking for the best way to enjoy Bali without leaving a carbon footprint, why not rent a bike? More than being an eco-friendly approach to your vacation, a bike rental is also much cheaper than renting motor vehicles. It only costs (25,000 IDR) a day for a bike rental in Bali. And the great thing is, you wouldn't need to worry about being stuck in traffic if you're driving a bicycle.

What are the popular beaches to surf in Bali?

• Balangan Beach

If you're more excited about a quiet beach than one with a lively crowd, Balangan Beach is your ideal surf destination. This underrated gem in southern Bali has the best waves for beginner and younger surfers for their first dip (or stride) in the waters!

• Nusa Dua Beach

If your Bali getaway is during the wet seasons, Nusa Dua Beach is your best option for surfer-friendly waves. This white sand beach on the southeast coast of Bali has small and mellow waves that can go a little taller in the wet season.

• Uluwatu Beach

Once you step foot in Uluwatu, it wouldn't be hard to see why it's among the top surfing spots - in Bali and around the world. You'll often see a crowd of professional surfers practicing their best skills in Uluwatu waters. If you're looking for a surfing community in Bali to learn from or befriend, make sure to visit this surfing haven. 

• Padang Padang Beach

Beginner surfers looking for a skill upgrade will love surfing in Padang Padang Beach. More than its clear waters, this beach is a reef break with mellow waves, making it ideal for surfing. This beach also holds an annual surfing competition, Rip Curl Padang Padang, that attracts world-class surfers from around the globe! 

Where is the best area to stay in Bali?

Each district in Bali offers a different experience for different kinds of travelers. Here are some of the things to keep in mind when choosing your stay in Bali. 

• Ubud

Sitting in the heart of the island is Ubud. Known for its flourishing art and cultural landscapes, there is no doubt that this district is an ideal location for those looking for an immersive Balinese experience. You'll find some of Bali's most famous attractions, like the rice paddies and several art galleries in Ubud. 

Recommendation: 

Lameli Villas 

This charming hotel sits a few kilometers away from Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple. A relaxing Bali staycation awaits you with its refreshing interior and complete amenities. The villa features an outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. For your utmost convenience, you can also avail of a direct shuttle service from the airport to Lameli Villas.

Location: Jalan Tirta Tawar No.A26, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali

• Kuta 

If you're looking for the quintessential Bali getaway, you'll love staying in Kuta. This district has the most resorts, hotels, and other forms of accommodation on the island. You'll also find plenty of restaurants, bars, and malls in Kuta. If you're a tourist who loves joining the crowd and meeting new people on your trip, Kuta is the place for you. 

Recommendation: 

SOL by Melia Kuta Bali

SOL by Melia Kuta Bali is the perfect medley of luxury and comfort in Kuta, Bali. Located within a short walk away from the beach and the best shopping districts, this resort lets you be right at the center of Bali's tourist hotspots. The highlight of this resort is its vast outdoor pool with a wet bar. Previous guests commended their quality breakfast and commitment to cleanliness!

Location: Jalan Bakung Sari No 81, Kuta, Badung, Bali

• Seminyak

Are you looking for the newest way to enjoy Bali? Look no further than Seminyak! This hip and luxurious district currently enjoys the buzz of younger tourists flocking to its booming nightlife. Seminyak boasts luxury resorts and accommodation that suits the taste of even the pickiest travelers! 

Recommendation: 

Anantara Seminyak Resort & Spa

You don't need to settle for anything less than the most luxurious experience here at Anantara Seminyak Resort & Spa! This 5-star hotel offers only the best and most unforgettable experiences for your Bali getaway. The resort has direct access to the well-loved Seminyak Beach and boasts a stunning view of the Balinese sunset. Beyond its idyllic location, Anantara Seminyak has in-house restaurants that serve world-class meals with international flavors. You'll love taking a relaxing swim in their modern outdoor pool that looks like an architectural masterpiece.

Location: Jl. Abimanyu (Dhyana Pura) Seminyak, Bali

• Jimbaran

Jimbaran may not be as famous as the other Balinese districts on the list, but it shines with its own charm. This humble fishing village is an ideal getaway if you're looking for a serene atmosphere in Bali. Don't forget to try the freshly-caught seafood options in Jimbaran's restaurants! 

Recommendation: 

Balquisse Heritage Hotel

A Balinese experience like no other awaits you at Balquisse Heritage Hotel. This rustic hotel will surely enthuse tourists looking for a stay with the most visually pleasing interior. Balquisse Heritage Hotel stays true to its "antique and rustic" theme throughout the hotel. Most guests praised their tasteful decorations and furnishings of the best quality.

Location: Jimbaran, Kuta Selatan, Bali

• Sanur 

Sanur was once the tourism center of Bali, along with Kuta. But the sudden boom of other districts made Sanur a quieter and more peaceful area, ideal for tourists looking for a more mellow Bali experience. If you're also looking for budget-friendly accommodations in Bali, Sanur is a great place to look out for. 

Recommendation: 

Prime Plaza Hotel Sanur

A lush experience doesn't need a heavy price tag in this hotel. This Balinese-style resort draws inspiration from the island's rich cultures and traditions. The best part is the hotel features multiple spas and relaxation facilities for an invigorating experience for your Bali vacation! Prime Plaza Hotel Sanur has suite-rooms and family rooms accommodating up to four people. So if you're heading to Bali with the whole family, you may want to consider booking with this hotel.

Location: Jalan Hang Tuah no. 46, Sanur, Sanur, Bali

• Lovina

If seeing the dolphins and other marine life is at the top of your list for your Bali vacation, staying in Lovina is your perfect fit. This quiet seaside town is famous, not only for humans but also for the pod of dolphins spotted swimming around its waters. 

Recommendation: 

Puri Bali Lovina

This budget-friendly hotel welcomes guests to a remarkable Bali getaway at an affordable rate. Among its amenities include a stunning outdoor pool, a charming garden, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Puri Bali Lovina also offers a direct shuttle service to-and-fro the airport for your convenience. 

Location: Jl. Mawar Lovina Kalibukbuk Singaraja, Lovina, Buleleng, Bali

How much is the accommodation in Bali?

• Hostel / guest house

Whether you're a solo traveler or a big group looking for a great deal on affordable accommodation, renting a house or a hostel is the best way to get your money's worth. Plenty of homes for rent in Bali feature nice interiors and a cozy atmosphere. You can get a rental home for four in Bali for only (300,000 IDR) a night. 

• Hotel / resorts

Bali features a good range of hotels and resorts, mostly near its famous beaches. Whether you're looking for casual hotels offering accommodations at an affordable rate or you want a luxurious experience in a high-end hotel, you'll find your "home" in Bali. A capsule hotel with a pool and standard amenities in Seminyak costs around 35 AUD (350,000) a night, while a luxury beachfront hotel with state-of-the-art facilities starts at 500 AUD (5 Million IDR) per day. 

• Private villas

If you're not settling for anything less than luxury for your Bali getaway, book a private villa with all the amenities you'll ever need! You'll find plenty of private villas with pools and breathtaking views on the island. A mid-range private villa starts at (190,000 IDR) a night, while a luxury villa can cost you up to (600,000 IDR).

How much is the average cost of a SIM Card in Bali?

There are many ways to avail a local sim card for your Bali trip. First, you can always buy online (ahead of time) and have it shipped to your address before you even set foot on your plane to Bali. You could also opt for an e-sim which only takes a few minutes to set up from home. A package of over 40 GB data costs around (160,000 IDR) from online sim merchants. You could also buy a sim card once you arrive in Denpasar Airport. However, a sim card from the airport stall costs more than those online or from other Bali stores. 25GB data with unlimited local calls and texts can cost you 35 AUD (350,000 IDR). 

How long should I stay in Bali for the best experience?

Bali offers seemingly countless attractions and endless experiences. If you're short on schedule and could only spend limited time on your vacation, you should stay for at least three days and three nights to make the most out of Bali's most popular attractions. However, if you're looking for the most immersive and relaxing experience in Bali without the need for a packed itinerary, your vacation should last a minimum of 7 days.

Guide to Bali

• Airport name : Ngurah Rai International Airport / Denpasar International Airport
• Airport code : DPS
• Language : Balinese, Bahasa Indonesia, English 
• Weather(C/F) : April - September, Dry (27°C - 34 °C) & October - March, Wet (22 °C - 26 °C)

FAQ

• How many airports in Bali (Denpasar)?

Bali has one main airport, the Denpasar International Airport (locally known as Ngurah Rai International Airport), at the northern tip of the island. The airport serves up to 20 million passengers yearly, making it the second busiest airport in Indonesia. In 2016, Denpasar International Airport received a 4.93 (out of 5) score in terms of Airport Service Quality and ranked third among the best airports in the world. 

• What is the cheapest time to fly to Bali (Denpasar)?

Airfare to Bali is generally cheaper during the wet season (October-March), as this period is also the lean season for tourism. Most Bali tourists choose to visit the island during the dry season (April-September) as the weather is more favorable to enjoying Bali's best beaches. 

• How can I find the best flight deal to Bali (Denpasar)?

For the best rates on your cheap flights to Bali, make sure to book ahead of time. Airfare to Bali rates tend to be cheaper when you book your flight at least four weeks before your departure. It also helps to compare prices between airlines and flight schedules online. Traveloka helps you compare the best rates and best-value deals on all available return flights to Bali. All you need to do is enter your desired departure date, and Traveloka shows you all available rates for your Bali trip. 

• Can I get free Wi-Fi at the Bali airport?

Yes. Denpasar International Airport in Bali offers a free internet connection (available through Wi-Fi or direct connection) in their waiting lounges. You wouldn't have to worry about booking your online taxi or searching for directions in the airport. 

• What are the travel & COVID regulations in Bali?

Bali doesn't require a pre-departure COVID-19 test for tourists coming to the island. However, a certificate of full vaccination (two doses) for adult tourists is still required upon arrival.