13 essential tips for visiting Bali, Indonesia

The Indonesian island of Bali is a sun-drenched haven that draws all kinds of travelers, from budget backpackers to opulent jet-setters.

However, like any destination, many travelers (especially those visiting for the first time) will have various questions. Common inquiries include, 'Are unmarried couples allowed to stay together in Bali?'—a topic gaining attention due to new tourist regulations we’ll discuss shortly—or simply, 'What should I wear?'

Fortunately, Bali is among the easiest places to navigate, though its size—spanning 5,776 sq km (2,230 sq miles)—encourages travelers to plan their activities in advance. For instance, locations like Seminyak, known for its beach clubs and luxury hotels, can get quite crowded during peak seasons, while more tranquil spots like Ubud may require a longer taxi ride but are well worth the trip for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Additionally, it’s important to note that Bali is considered one of the safest destinations in Asia. As with any popular tourist spot, there are steps we can take to stay safe while traveling, but recent efforts to combat petty crime and inappropriate behavior have made the island a wonderfully family-friendly destination.

Here are our top recommendations for travelers heading to Bali.

1. Ensure your vaccinations are current before visiting Indonesia

While there are no mandatory vaccinations for travelers to Bali (except for those arriving from regions with a high risk of yellow fever, who must present a vaccination certificate), it is often advisable to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. Bali is generally categorized as having 'low to no risk' for malaria.

Rabies poses a significant risk in Indonesia, and although Bali reports fewer fatalities than other regions (the World Health Organization noted 11 rabies deaths in the first half of 2023), the virus is still present. Considering the rabies vaccination is advisable. Determining which vaccinations to get for a trip to Bali is largely a personal decision, but if you have concerns, consult your local healthcare provider for the most current advice.

2. Carry a reusable water bottle

A common question among travelers is: 'Is it safe to drink Bali's tap water?' The quick answer is 'no.' Opt for bottled water or, ideally, bring a bottle with a built-in water filter. Buying bottled water, especially in restaurants, can add up quickly, which is why we recommend reusable filtered bottles like Larq and Lifestraw. These are also useful for purifying water for washing fruits and vegetables. Additionally, avoid ice and use bottled water for brushing your teeth.

3. Don’t dismiss the rainy season

Having a general understanding of the timing of dry and rainy seasons is definitely helpful before traveling to Indonesia. However, hear us out – Bali's rainy season, which runs from October to April, can actually be a wonderful time to visit. It features brief, intense showers that often last only a few minutes. Plus, prices for everything – from regional flights to accommodations – drop significantly, the island becomes incredibly lush, the weather remains warm (typically between 24°C/75°F and 29°C/85°F), and popular tourist spots are delightfully uncrowded. You’ll also find it easier to secure spots on activities like snorkeling tours and guided hikes.

4. Get some insect repellent

Just to clarify, Bali doesn't suffer from a severe mosquito issue, but like many places in Southeast Asia, these annoying little insects do enjoy a blood meal – especially during the rainy season from November to April. Save some money by purchasing your repellent in Bali, opting for locally made sprays. Popular and budget-friendly Asian brands, like Soffell (try to find the surprisingly nice floral-scented version), are widely available throughout Indonesia.

5. Avoid traveling during peak seasons

Traffic in Bali can be quite challenging, particularly in busier areas like Denpasar and Kuta, and estimated travel times on apps like Google Maps or Grab can often be unreliable. Peak traffic hours are generally from 6am to 8am (with roads remaining congested until around 10am when day-trippers set out) and from 4pm to 7pm. Be sure to allow ample time for your journeys, especially when heading to the airport.

6. Bring clothing that covers you when you're not at the beach

In Bali, revealing swimwear is acceptable at the beach, but it's certainly not appropriate for visits to supermarkets or restaurants.

Both men and women should ensure their shoulders and upper legs are covered when visiting religious sites; most of these locations provide sarongs for guests to borrow. To pack efficiently, consider bringing a lightweight cotton scarf that can serve as a sarong at temples, along with a pair of light cotton trousers (bonus points if they're infused with mosquito repellent) for protection against bites and proper coverage where shorts or sleeveless tops may be inappropriate.

7. Show respect in all situations

While some media portray Bali as a place where trouble is easy to find, that's not the case. Just exercise common sense: avoid drugs (possession of even a small amount of cannabis can lead to imprisonment), dress appropriately at religious sites, wear a helmet when riding a motorbike or moped (as Bali's police are intensifying their focus on foreign drivers), and always treat locals with kindness.

8. Locals are eager to share their insights

If you're staying at a hotel with a concierge or a helpful receptionist, don't hesitate to ask them for recommendations on the best local bars, beaches, or restaurants. The Balinese take immense pride in their island—it's not uncommon for a bartender at your favorite beach bar to invite you to their home for dinner with their family—and they love sharing their favorite spots for beaches, nature walks, or temples.

9. Choose local options for food, drinks, accommodations, and shopping

Don't hesitate to embrace local culture, whether that means dining at small family-run eateries or choosing local beverage brands. Not only will you enjoy authentic and delicious dishes at lower prices, but you'll also be directly supporting the local economy. Nowadays, even the tiniest restaurants, bars, and independent hotels can be found on review platforms like Zomato, which is especially popular in Asia, helping you determine their credibility with a quick look.

10. Keep some small change on hand

While many establishments in Bali accept card payments, numerous locations, such as temples, small souvenir shops, and beachfront massage parlors (which provide some of the best massages), only accept cash. ATMs can be unreliable and scarce in certain areas. Additionally, don't assume you'll have the mobile data required to book a ride-share taxi. If you need to hail a tuk-tuk or taxi on the street, cash will likely be necessary.

When using ATMs, choose those affiliated with major banks (like BNI, Bank Mandiri, BCA, and CIMB Niaga) to avoid extra withdrawal fees. Remember, Indonesian ATMs dispense cash first, so wait for your card to come out before leaving.

11. Explore Bali on a moped (and always wear a helmet)

Mopeds are the most affordable way to navigate Bali, and they can also be the fastest option, especially during rush hour in busy areas like Kuta. Both Grab and Gojek (Bali's leading ride-sharing apps) offer moped transportation, which is significantly cheaper than car rides. Just be sure to check your driver’s reviews and always wear a helmet (typically provided by the driver). Avoid hailing scooter taxis directly from the street, as you won't be able to verify their credentials; with so many identifiable drivers in bright green jackets using Grab and Gojek, it’s unnecessary.

12. A law prohibits sex before marriage

In December 2022, the Indonesian government enacted a new law that prohibits sexual relations outside of marriage. This legislation is applicable to both locals and visitors.

At the time of the announcement, it was stated that the law would not be enforced until late 2025. Since then, Bali's governor has clarified that the so-called 'Bali bonk ban' will not apply to tourists and that only spouses, parents, or children can report offenders. Overall, while the law raises concerns regarding human rights in Indonesia, it is not expected to impact tourists significantly.

13. Be ready to pay a daily tourist tax

With the tourism industry bouncing back after the pandemic, authorities are addressing environmental issues (particularly plastic waste on beaches) and overtourism by finally implementing a long-discussed fee for foreign visitors, effective February 2024. The fee of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah per visitor (approximately US$10, €9, or AU$15) is due upon arrival on the island.