Bali Bucket List: 50 Adventurous Things to Do in Bali (2024)

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What you should not miss in Bali? 10 Best Experiences & Tours in Bali

This is an enormous article, so here are 8 of my favorite things to do in Bali that you shouldn’t miss! Clicking on the links will take you to a highly-rated tour on Viator.

But you know what is even better? Pick a few of the below activities that intrigue you the most and make your own customized itinerary by hiring your own private driver! Choose how many people are in your group, where you want to get picked up, and what you would like to see.

You will be hiring a driver by a package of hours, so you have full control over when and how long you would like to stay at an attraction. An added bonus? Wifi is available in the vehicle, so you can always last minute decide to change your mind.

Overview of Adventurous Things to Do in a Bali Bucket List

With its thrilling nature opportunities, captivating photographs, epic cliffsides, and heavenly temples, Bali is a paradise of possibilities. We’ve compiled the ultimate Bali bucket list to unlock your adventurous side- you’ll ride scooters down steep hillsides, discover underwater surprises and explore breathtaking landscapes!

I’ve categorized the following Bali bucket list activities into easy categories below:

• Culture and Tradition
• Adventure and Nature
• Water Sports & Activities
• Party and Wellness
• Food Related Activities

Culture and Traditional Bali Bucket List Things to Do

1. Watch the Seaweed Farmers Off Nusa Lembongan

Experience the traditional industry of Nusa Lembongan and its seaweed farming culture. Long lines of seaweed seeds are anchored to the seafloor and harvested within two months. Local farmers cut the seaweed from the lines, dry it and bundle it for the processing plant, turning it into cosmetics, shampoo, and food such as sushi seaweed.

Cat’s Travel Tip: The best time to see the seaweed harvest is during low tide at the Yellow Bridge between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.

Where to See: Best by Yellow Bridge, but All Around Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan and Nusa Penida

Related Post: See everything there is to do on Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan

2. Bless Yourself in the Waters of Pura Tirta Empul Temple

This ancient Hindu temple located in the central highlands of Bali is believed to be a sacred spot for purification. The holy spring water, believed to have healing powers, is found here. Devotees go to Pura Tirta Empul to bathe in the waters as a form of spiritually and physically cleansing themselves.

Tip: During ceremony days, lines can be absurdly long. Check with a local before visiting (pictured below)

Where to See: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia

3. Take a Guided Tour through the Mother Temple, “Pura Besakih”

Pura Besakih is the largest and holiest temple of Bali, built on six hectares of land. Explore the complex with a guide included in the admission price and learn about the Hindu-Balinese culture.

Pura Besakih is the best cultural attraction to visit in Bali, being the largest, most intricate, and not overrun with tourists. But it is far up north. You may want to join a Besakih tour to save money on transport unless you have your own scooter.

Where to See: Jl. Gunung Mas No.Ds, Besakih, Kec. Rendang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80863, Indonesia

4. Attend a Traditional Balinesian Ceremony

With Balinesian ceremonies seemingly happening at temples almost daily, why not partake in one? You can observe locals dressed in colorful costumes making offerings of fruits, flowers, and incense to the deities. 

We asked our guesthouse owner, who even provided us with traditional outfits so we could join the ceremony too! This was an excellent opportunity to learn about local culture and dive deeper into the fascinating spiritual world of Bali.

Where to See: Literally all over Bali. Just ask a local, and almost everyone will be happy to show you their culture and make a new friend.

5. Be Dazzled By a Traditional Kecak Fire Dance

A Kecak performance is an essential part of Balinese culture. This unique performance depicts a story from the classic Indian epic Ramayana – accompanied by a chorus of chanting men wearing traditional costumes.

If you’re looking for a spectacular Kecak Fire Performance in Bali, the Uluwatu clifftop amphitheater show around sunset is unrivaled. Make sure you book your tickets and get there early to save yourself prime seating.

Where to See: Uluwatu Temple, Ubud Center

6. Experiencing the Once Every 5 Year Mass Cremation – Pitra Yadnya (Ngaben)

Ngaben is a traditional Balinese funeral ceremony. It is typically performed once every 5 years for the region’s deceased people, and it involves burning elaborate paper sculptures of animals and buildings to honor and send them off to the afterlife. What’s crazy is that people will actually raise the dead from the ground to do this mass cremation ceremony.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Bali when Ngaben is taking place, do not miss out on this fantastic cultural experience. It’s an unforgettable sight to behold!

Where to See: Could be anywhere in Bali. All towns will individually have Pitra Yadnya celebrations. If you see towering idols off the street, ask about it.
When to See: Every 5 years or so for a given town or village.

Related Post: Read my full account of what is was like to experience Pitra Yadnya

7. Time your Visit with Balinese ceremonies: Galungan and Kuningan

If you’ve ever come across photos of the tall bamboo sticks lined up in neat rows on a Bali street, then you must know about Galungan and Kuningan: an important Balinese festival that take place once or twice every year to ward off evil spirits.

Galungan lasts 10 days and marks the victory of good over evil. During this time, huge bamboo poles “penjor” are erected and copious amount of offerings are placed everywhere.

Kuningan is celebrated the last day of Galungan. On this day, people make a pilgrimage to their family temple and place special offerings of yellow rice as a means of honoring their ancestors.

Where to see: Galungan is celebrated all over Bali! Visit sacred temples like Uluwatu Temple, Ulun Datu Beratan Temple, or Tanah Lot to witness rituals.

When to see: On each Wednesday of Dunggulan, or eleven weeks on the Balinesian Pawukon Calendar. This calendar has only 210 days a year, so on some years, Galungan can fall twice in one Gregorian year.

8. Take a Traditional Balinese Wood Carving Class

Learn the traditional art of wood carving from master carvers in Ubud. You will get to choose the type of wood you’d like to work with, then proceed to carve it into whatever desired shape with the help of your feet! The maestro makes the process looks easier than it actually is.

Where to Do: Check with where you’re staying in Ubud to see where you can find a workshop. My maestro was the uncle of the owner who lived in the same housing complex!

9. Learn How Natural Salt is Made

Head up north along the east of Bali to witness how salt is made from seawater using traditional methods and tools. The process involves evaporating seawater over a firewood stove, which produces thick saltwater syrup that hardens when it dries in the sun.

Show up, and even though there is a language barrier, the owner will give you a short demonstration of the salt-making process.

Where to See: Multiple Vendors in this area. Raya Goa Lawah, Pesinggahan, Kec. Dawan, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali 80761, Indonesia

10. See the Iconic Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot is a temple built atop an isolated rocky outcrop surrounded and dedicated to the gods of the sea. It’s one of Bali’s most photographed and iconic spots and a great place to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Be sure to explore the coral rock formation during low tide.

Where to See: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia
Top Tour Picks: Tanah Lot at Sunset, All Day Tour Inc. Tanah Lot

11. Get Inked by Sak Yant (Traditional Bamboo Tattoo) in Kuta

Kuta is home to Sak Yant, a traditional Balinese form of tattooing performed with bamboo and needles. It’s said that these tattoos offer magical protection and blessings for those who wear them.

Many people choose to get a Sak Yant tattoo as an experience and to get closer to their culture, as well as a special way to commemorate their visit to Bali.

Where to Get: Kuta is famous for its tattoo parlors.

Adventure and Nature Bali Bucket List Things to Do

12. Bali Swing Over the Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Take a “trek” through Tegallalang’s stacked tiers of emerald-colored terraced rice paddies, and capture postcard-worthy photographs! Even though this can be quite a touristy Southeast Asian landmark, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces possess a uniqueness stemming from its impressive steepness and is a great spot for having lunch with a view.

One very common Bali bucket list thing to do is the Bali Swing. Although there are many knock-offs now, the original is located in the beautiful Tegallalang Rice Terrace. Zip up to 10m, 15m, 20m, or even an impressive 78 meters off the ground and take in enchanting vistas of balmy Balinese terraces.

Where to See: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia

13. Chase an Endless Amount of Waterfalls

Make sure to dedicate a day (or more) of your Bali adventure to exploring the extraordinary waterfalls scattered across this Indonesian paradise. With options ranging from roadside cascades, deep-cut lagoons and caves, towering cliffsides, awe-inspiring canyons, and everything in between – you’re guaranteed to be amazed!

From the most photogenic to the renowned, here are some of the island’s waterfalls that you won’t want to miss:

• Sekumpul Waterfall
• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
• Kanto Lambo Waterfall
• Tukad Cepung Waterfall
• Aling-Aling Waterfall

Top Tour Picks: East Bali Waterfall Tour, North Bali Waterfall Tour

14. Hike Bali’s Tallest Volcano, Mount Agung

Rising to a remarkable 3,031 meters, Mount Agung is the tallest volcano on Bali and one of Indonesia’s most sacred mountains. Trek up its slopes to experience spectacular panoramas of Bali’s landscape and catch a glimpse of the steaming crater at its summit.

You’ll need to prepare for a full-day hike, but once you reach the summit – after about 8 hours of hard climbing – you’ll be rewarded with astonishing views, incredible stories, and a sense of accomplishment.

15. Go on a Sunrise Hike to the Summit of Mount Batur

Make an early start to witness one of Bali’s most splendid sunrises from the Mount Batur sunrise trek! It is among the island’s popular tourist activities due to its stunning scenery of three magnificent volcanoes and the caldera below.

The hike up will take roughly two hours but not be overly strenuous – although do keep in mind that hiring a tour guide may be necessary as locals might give visitors trouble if they don’t hire one.

Top Tour Picks: Mount Batur Sunrise Trek Only, Sunrise Trek with Hot Springs

16. Paddle Your Way to Picture Perfect Moments at Ulun Danu Temple

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is located on Lake Bratan. Although relatively small, the stepped pagodas and well-maintained garden grounds make for a beautiful spot.

A great way to appreciate this temple is by taking a paddle boat around it, allowing you to glide across the lake, viewing this incredible Balinese landmark from different angles.

Where to See: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia
Top Tour Picks: All Day Tour to Tanah Lot, Jatuliwah, and Ulun Danu Tour

17. Stroll Through The UNESCO Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces may not be as famous as the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, but where Tegallaland is steep, Jatiluwih is incomparably vast. Named a UNESCO World Heritage site and visited by Barack Obama during his 2017 Bali vacation, the majestic Jatiluwih Rice Terraces sprawl from mountain to shoreline.

Translated directly from Indonesian, the words “Jati” and “Luwih” mean beautiful or special; an apt way to describe this remarkable display of SUBAK irrigation methods – a traditional Balinese water management system.

Where to See: Village, Jl. Jatiluwih Kawan No.Desa, Jatiluwih, Kec. Penebel, Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82152, Indonesia
Top Tour Picks: All Day Tour to Tanah Lot, Jatuliwah, and Ulun Danu Tour

18. Gawk in Wonder at the Stunning Cliffs of the Blue Lagoon in Nusa Ceningan

Come explore Nusa Ceningan’s secret paradise: the Blue Lagoon. Upon arrival, you’ll be captivated by the sight of a heart-shaped sapphire lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs. From high above, it looks just like a blue heart!

To get to Blue Lagoon, one of the most beautiful spots on Nusa Lembongan, you can rent a scooter and drive there yourself (about 15 minutes away), or you can hire a driver or join a full day tour.

Where to See: Jl. Nusa Ceningan, Lembongan, Kec. Klungkung, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali 80871, Indonesia

19. Visit the famous Uluwatu Temple and watch the Sunset

Hold onto your hats and sunglasses as you get blown away by the sunsets at Uluwatu Temple, an iconic Balinese landmark that looms atop a dramatic cliff overlooking the ocean. That and because the thieving monkeys will literally take anything right off of your face.

To truly admire this magnificent temple in all its glory, go for the sunset and stay until nightfall. Then head to another nearby Uluwatu activity, watching the Kecak Fire Performance.

Cat’s Pro Travel Tip! If you plan on going to the Kecak Dance, either reserve your ticket on their official online site here, skip the line by joining a tour, or get there in-person before 4:30 pm when the lines open. Even though I arrived at 4 pm, the first show was already sold out and I had to wait in line for 45 minutes.

Where to See: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

20. Hike the Harrowing Trail Down the T-Rex Kelingking Beach

You may have seen Kelingking Beach on your social media feeds – as it is known for its turquoise waters and distinct viewpoint atop a jagged cliff that is mildly shaped like a T-Rex.

If you want to really bring your experience of this paradise to the next level, hike down the treacherous path that leads up close and personal with this incredible beach below.

Be Warned: This isn’t for the faint of heart! The narrow, winding path is dangerous and becomes more of a rock climb than a hike. But for 45 minutes of bravery (and daring), the beach at the bottom is worth it!

Where to See: Bunga Mekar, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

21. Be Amazed by the Strange Formation of Broken Beach

Broken Beach’s rocky outcrop was created by a volcanic cave-in, resulting in a semi-circular archway and dreamy lagoon below. Admiring the particular formations of the cliff, then take a refreshing dip in the azure waters of nearby Angel’s Billabong.

Where to See: Sakti, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia

22. Play with the Monkeys at Ubud Monkey Forest

Ubud Monkey Forest is a common Bali bucket list thing to do. As you wander through this jungle filled with curious monkeys and ancient temples, you’ll be able to observe these remarkable creatures up close – from their diets to their playful behavior.

Tip! Do not bring any valuables. These clever critters know how to look in pockets and open zippers. Nothing hanging loosely on you is safe from being stolen. 

Where to See: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Top Tour Picks: Ubud Small Group Tour: Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terraces and more

23. Rent A Motorbike And Go on a Bali Road Trip 

Embark on a thrilling journey in Bali by renting a motorbike and discovering its numerous hidden gems at your own pace. From drives along Amed’s snorkeling spots in East Bali to the steep roads around Mount Batur, your ride will be filled with undiscovered places waiting for you to explore, all for around 60,000 IDR (~4$ USD) per day plus gas money.

24. Walk Down the Endless Stairs to Diamond Beach

Don’t miss out on one of the coolest beaches I’ve ever seen. Diamond Beach, located at the far east end of Nusa Penida, is well worth a lengthy drive – it’s amongst Bali’s most beautiful beaches!

Prepare to descend very, very steep stairs with two areas rappeling with ropes before you reach the dazzling emerald waves that crash against its sea-stacked shoreline and bask in the splendor of this secluded white-sand paradise.

Cat’s Travel Tip! Arrive at Diamond Beach before noon if you want to bask in the warm rays of sunlight. Since the surrounding cliffsides are extraordinarily steep and face east, any later than that, the beach will be entirely in the shade.

Where to See: Pejukutan, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

25. Drive Through The Kintamani Highlands & Volcanic Lake Batur

The landscape around Kintamani Highlands is home to Lake Batur, an active volcano surrounded by lush terraced rice paddies and ancient temples. Experience the thrill of driving up the winding, steep roads around Mount Batur’s caldera rim and witness a captivating sunset over the lake and volcano.

After a full day of exploration, sink into the healing hot springs of Lake Batur. Choose between smaller family-run pools or luxurious resorts for a night of ultimate relaxation.

Top Tour Picks: Kintamani Lake & Volcano Tour, Sunrise Trek with Hot Springs

26. White Water Raft on the Ayung River

With an array of Class II and III rapids, the trip down Ayung River offers a thrilling yet safe experience for every level of rafter. From lush greenery to breathtaking waterfalls and deep gorges, the river journey is full of natural beauty that will take your breath away.

Plus, with experienced Bali Sun guides at hand and all the required white water rafting equipment included, you can be sure to have a safe and fun trip!

Where to See: Ayung River

Picture Perfect Bali Bucket List Places

27. Find the Best View of Mount Agung from Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint

Head to Lanangan Sweet Viewpoint for one of the most jaw-dropping panoramas of Mount Agung that you can find in Bali. Here, you’ll find the mountain (sometimes) cloaked in clouds, with its peak peeking out amongst lush green hillsides and the sea.

Lots of selfie opportunities to be had here, including some cool viewing platforms.

Where to See: Banjar Dinas Gulinten, Bunutan, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia

28. Play with Silhouettes in the Infinity Pools of Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa

Hidden amongst the high canopies of northern Bali, tower above it all by booking a luxury accommodation Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa towers above it all. The view from this plantation consists of vast hillsides, distant mountain ranges, and an infinite landscape as far as the eye can see.

Head to one of their infinity pools and try playing with some silhouettes. Frame your body in creative shapes and watch as you become part of Bali’s sensational scenery.

Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa is also one of the most famous places to have a floating breakfast or a flower bath.

Resort Address: Jl. Asah Gobleg, Gobleg, Kec. Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81152, Indonesia

29. Snap That Instagram Pic at the Infamous Handara Gate

The Handara Gate, a magnificent traditional Balinesian gateway, has become an Instagram sensation. Though it might be disappointing to discover the gate is actually just the entrance of a golf course, why not seize this opportunity for an unforgettable photo-op if you’re passing by?

Tip! This spot is usually packed with people just waiting to take a picture during peak hours, so I wouldn’t go out of my way for this unless you happen to be on an Instagram Tour or passing through.

Where to See: Jl. Raya Singaraja-Denpasar, Pancasari, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia

30. Feed the Fish at Tirta Ganga Water Palace

Tirta Ganga Water Palace is a sacred temple complex with a beautiful water garden. Here, you can serenely wander through the palace grounds while admiring its array of lush green foliage, vibrant ponds, and reflective pools filled with koi waiting for a snack.

Where to See: Jalan Raya Abang Desa Adat Jl. Raya Tirta Gangga, Ababi, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia
Top Tour Picks: Bali Instagram Highlights Tour, Best of East Bali Tour

31. Get the Instashot from pura Lempuyang Temple

The iconic view of Mount Agung through the gates of Pura Lempuyang Temple makes it one of Bali’s most Instagrammed attractions. Prepare for multiple breathers as you walk toward this temple complex and the Gates of Heaven.

From the seven distinct temples that construct this astounding temple complex, most visitors only explore the first due to its arduous 4-hour ascension of rugged staircases for the rest of them.

Related Post: For a full guide, check out this guide to Lempuyang Temple.

Insider Tip: Get there early; Lempuyang opens at 6am! During peak times, you could potentially have to wait 2-3 hours for the shot.

Where to See: Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia

32. Play Amongst the Flower Fields

Bali is a paradise of blooming marigolds and edelweiss gardens to fulfill the overwhelming demand for Balinesian offerings. The highlands feature a copious amount of fields scattered atop hills, mesmerizing visitors with its vast amount of serene flower beds.

Where to See: Behind Pura Besakih in the hills are fields of Marigold and Edelweiss Gardens, but may be found anywhere in the countrysides.

Water Sports & Activities on a Bali Bucket List

33. Be Lucky Enough to Dive with the Shy Giant Mola Mola (Sun Fish)

Mola mola, otherwise known as the sunfish, is one of the rarest and most sought-after creatures to spot when diving in the Nusa islands off of Bali.

This giant disc-shaped fish can grow up to 3 meters wide and live around deep waters between July to October, making it quite a challenge to spot. But, if you’re lucky enough to witness one of these majestic creatures gliding along the currents, you can brag about it to other divers for the rest of your life.

Where to See: Best chance of seeing mola-mola is Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida from July to October.

34. Catch Sight of Curious Manta Rays on Nusa Penida

Spotting Mantas at Manta Point (manta cleaning station for divers) and Manta Bay (manta feeding station for snorkelers) on Nusa Penida is almost guaranteed. Here, you can observe these graceful giants up close as they glide through crystal-clear waters below the surface. It’s a crazy bucket list item worth crossing off, for sure.

Unfortunately, snorkeling was a bit unethical as boats and hordes of snorkelers chased after spotted manta rays. Diving provided a much more tranquil experience, and the mantas would swim up to you!

35. Take a Surf Lesson and Catch Some Waves at Kuta Beach

Kuta Beach is one of Bali’s top surfing locations, with some of the best beginner waves on the island. With a variety of surf schools offering lessons for novices and experienced surfers, all you’ll need is a board, some wax, and a little bit of courage. Try it out, and you may be catching waves like an amateur in no time!

Head to Uluwatu’s beaches or Padang Padang (Bali pipeline) for advanced surfers.

36. Dive USAT Liberty In Tulamban

Go scuba diving in Tulamban, one of the best dive sites in Bali! The USS Liberty is a sunken WWII wreck that’s become an aquatic graveyard for an impressive variety of fish, eels, coral, and other sea life. Even without a wreck certificate, this cargo ship is large enough for confident divers to wade through one of its many rooms.

Where to See: PHGV+867, Tulamben, Kubu, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80852, Indonesia

37. Find Turtles and Underwater Shrines Snorkeling in Amed

Much of mainland Bali could be better-suited for snorkeling, but Amed is definitely an exception.

With an array of bays, rock formations, and even an underwater shrine, the town’s coastline is filled with a healthy population of turtles feeding on the grassy shallows.

The coral gardens around Amed are full of vibrant fish, sea urchins, anemones, coral formations, and even a sunken Japanese ship.

38. Go for an Ethical dolphin-watching tour in Lovina

Lovina Beach, located in north Bali, is renowned as one of the island’s best black sand beaches and sunset spots. And in the mornings? Hop onto one of Lovina’s early morning boat tours that allows you to watch countless dolphins rising joyfully against breathtaking backdrops.

Cat’s Travel Tip! Before embarking on your dolphin-spotting journey, ensure that you do some research to guarantee the most ethical experience. Read up on reviews and get informed about the tour agency beforehand for a guilt-free encounter.

Where to See: Lovina Beach

39. Snorkel At the Bali’s Far West Menjangan Island (Pulau Menjangan)

With its clear waters, Menjangan Island, situated off the coast of West Bali, is one of Bali’s best diving and snorkeling spots.

Starting from Lovina, you can take a full-day tour spotting a plethora of marine life, from beautiful coral formations brimming with colorful fish to giant sea turtles gracefully swimming by. Plus, the area has abundant mangrove forests.

40. Get Washed Over at Angel’s Billabong in Nusa Penida

Take a dip in Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool located on the rocky cliffs of Nusa Penida. It’s insane how clear the water is here to swim and get lost marveling at the ocean spray right over the edge.

Plus, another amazing Nusa Penida attraction, Broken Beach is right around the corner.

Cat’s Travel Tip! Do not enter Angel’s Billabong during high tide! It is dangerous as the waves can quickly sweep away unsuspecting swimmers out over to the open sea with no way of returning to shore.

Where to See: Sakti, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Party & Relaxation Bali Bucket List Things to Do

41. Yoga As the Sun Sets From Jemeluk’s Blue Earth Village Restaurant

Take in the beauty of Bali’s vibrant sunsets while doing yoga and enjoying a meal at Jemeluk’s Blue Earth Village Restaurant. Perched on a hilltop, this restaurant offers one of the most magical views of Mount Agung and serves delicious healthy food too!

Restaurant Address: Amed St, Bunutan, Abang, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80852, Indonesia

42. Get a Traditional Balinese Massage

In between all these best things to do in Bali, take the time to relax and try a traditional Balinese massage. This type of massage uses a blend of acupressure, reflexology, aromatherapy, and oil-based treatments that are sure to leave you feeling like rubber.

From bustling street corners to the convenience of your hotel room, massage parlors are plentiful in tourist hotspots.

43. Embrace Your Tourist Status Shopping at the Ubud Market

Embrace your tourist status and do some shopping at the bustling Ubud Market! Find everything from batik sarongs and woven bags to wood carvings and stone sculptures — all at insanely cheap prices too, if you haggle first.

44. Nurture Your Heart with Yoga Retreats

For a more spiritual experience, join one of Bali’s famous yoga retreats! Here, you’ll learn the basics of yoga and meditation while relaxing in beachside or rice paddy settings. Many retreat centers also offer detox packages that include vegan meals, massage treatments, and cleansing activities.

As an avid acro yogi, Bali has a very active acro yoga community with regular classes and jams in Uluwatu, Canggu, and Ubud almost every day of the week. I’m always trying to get new people into this sport, so join this Facebook group to find the latest schedule of what’s happening in Bali.

45. Explore Gili Trawangan’s Colorful Nightlife Scene

Not technically on Bali, many tourists hit up the Gili Islands on Bali’s neighbor, Lombok, to experience its vibrant party scene of Gili Trawangan!

Spend the day snorkeling with turtles and appreciating the tranquility of life on the beach without motorized noises, as it is literally not allowed on the island. After, you’ll find Gili-T beachside resorts and bars pumping out music until the wee hours of the morning and plenty of foreigners who are always down to have fun. It’s almost like being at a never-ending music festival.

46. Live Life In The Moment Partying the Night Away in Canggu or Seminyak

Canggu and Seminyak on mainland Bali are the places to be if you’re looking for some wild nights out. Located near each other, these regions boast some of Bali’s trendiest bars and beach clubs.

While Canggu is more popular among digital nomads and backpackers, those seeking a more upscale vibe may prefer Seminyak. Although arguably, Canggu may be the more expensive of the two areas now.

Some of the most popular party spots in Bali:

• Savaya in Uluwatu
• Finn’s Beach Club in Canggu
• Atlas in Canggu
• Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak
• La Favela in Seminyak
• Old Man’s Block Party on Wednesdays
• Sandbar for those after-hours nights

Food Related Bali Bucket List Things to Do

47. Dig Into Indonesian Cuisine At Warung Made Babi Guling Restaurant

One of the must-try dishes in Bali is babi guling, the Balinese version of slow-roasted suckling pig. Check google reviews for Warungs serving up some delicious food using traditional recipes passed down through generations. Typically, the menu at these places will only offer one dish: babi guling, along with a range of choices for what part of the pig to order more of.

Where to Eat: I went twice to Warung Babi Guling Pak Malen and Men Lari, which both have thousands of reviews. I would check Google reviews for the highest number of reviews.

48. Learn to Cook At a Traditional Balinese Culinary Class

Sign up for a traditional Balinese cooking class to dive into the diverse culinary culture —exploring local ingredients as you craft your own glorious feast. 

While visiting Lovina, I had the pleasure of trying an amazing cooking class. The food was divine – so much so that I even took notes! If you’re looking for a memorable culinary experience in Bali, classes are available all across the island.

49. Enjoy a Floating Breakfast in World-Class Bali Resorts

It’s a new trend now that many luxury resorts throughout Bali serve unbeatable floating breakfast experiences. Feel on top of the world as you start your day with a delicious spread of fresh fruits and pastries served right to your room while lounging in the pool — honestly, it really doesn’t get any better than that!

50. Sample Cheap Eats from Local Warungs

Even if you are scared of Bali belly, you need to nosh on cheap eats from local warungs at least once. Warungs are small restaurants that usually run out of locals’ homes or small kiosks serving traditional Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng and sate ayam for insanely cheap prices (think $1-$2 per dish).

FAQs: Bali Bucket List

When is the Best Time to Visit Bali?

As one of the best summer places to travel in Asia, the ideal time to visit Bali is between April and October. During these months, the weather is at its most pleasant, and the days are generally sunny. However, this is the peak tourist season, so you can expect a more vibrant atmosphere but also more crowds and higher prices throughout the islands.

How to Get Around Bali?

The cheapest way to get around Bali is to rent your own scooter, while hiring a driver for the day is the easiest way to get around. For a mere 60,000 IDR per day ($4 USD), renting a scooter is the most efficient, cost-effective way to get around.

If you are traveling as a larger group or do not feel comfortable riding scooters yourself, hiring a private driver for the day is an ideal option. It typically costs 500,000 IDR per day, and they will wait around while you explore.

Related Post: Read a full detailed post on transportation in Bali & Indonesia

How Many Days in Bali is Enough?

Generally speaking, it’s recommended to stay in Bali for at least 7 days to get a full sense of the island’s culture and attractions. Of course, this highly depends on the type of activities in Bali you want to experience. If you plan on spending more time relaxing and exploring certain areas closely, then more than a week is ideal.

I’ll say that I have seen almost everything on this list but spent more than a month on Bali actively sightseeing almost every day.

Final Thoughts: What to Do on a Bali Bucket List

From snorkeling with manta rays to climbing an active volcano and indulging in delicious Balinese cuisine, there are countless things to do on your Bali bucket list. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual retreat or an adventure of a lifetime, take the plunge and book yourself a trip to explore this magical island crossing off some of these Bali adventure activities.