A Beginner's Guide to Bali

Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, party lover, family traveler, or someone seeking spiritual growth, Bali truly caters to all. The island's breathtaking landscapes—featuring beaches, mountains, rice terraces, river gorges, waterfalls, and rainforests—are intertwined with rich spiritual traditions reflected in its Hindu temples, ceremonies, and rituals.

In Bali, you can indulge in exquisite dining, refreshing spa treatments, endless shopping, and vibrant beach clubs. Dance both day and night, practice yoga, conquer towering volcanoes, engage in eco-friendly activities, ride the island's remarkable surf, play golf, snorkel, dive, or explore theme parks. Open yourself to Bali's artistic, creative, and healing vibes, and you'll find your inspiration here.

Here’s everything you need to know before embarking on your first Bali adventure.

When is the best time to visit Bali?

The optimal time to travel to Bali isn't solely based on weather but rather on the activities and festivals you wish to enjoy. Expect warm, tropical days and pleasant nights with temperatures between 27–32°C (81–90°F) and humidity levels of 77–85% year-round. The dry season (May to October) offers clear skies and sunny weather, while the wet season (November to April) brings increased humidity, heavy rains, and storms. July sees strong winds during the Bali Kite Festival at Padang Galak. August is the coolest and least humid month, ideal for enjoying the Ubud Village Jazz Festival. Generally, January and February experience the most rain, with late afternoon thunderstorms.

Peak travel seasons can influence your timing for visiting Bali, as the most popular periods tend to be the busiest and priciest. Large crowds flock to the island during the school holidays in July and August, Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, and Easter, resulting in higher prices for everything from flights and accommodations to transportation and tours.

Visiting during off-peak seasons can offer significant savings and great deals. Witness the incredible ogoh-ogoh (papier-mâché monsters) parades in March, leading to Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence—a celebration unlike any other in the world. Attend the month-long Bali Arts Festival or watch the thrilling Mekare-kare theatrical fight in June or July, featuring the young men of Tenganan near Candidasa. Celebrate yoga, dance, and music at the Bali Spirit Festival in May, and indulge in the culinary and literary experiences at the Ubud Food Festival in May and the international Ubud Writers and Readers Festival in October.

How long should I stay in Bali?

You can enjoy Bali on a quick two-day stopover or spend a lifetime here, continually uncovering new sights and experiences. A week is ideal for a blend of relaxation and activities, whether by the beach or in the cultural heart of Ubud. Spending three weeks allows you to explore more extensively, possibly settling in three diverse locations like Amed, Ubud, and Seminyak.

If you’re short on time and craving a white-sand beach escape away from the hustle of Canggu and the Bukit Peninsula, head to Nusa Lembongan. This small island is just a 30-minute fast-boat ride from Sanur. Lembongan embodies the tropical paradise you envision, featuring crystal-clear waters, charming coves, a mangrove forest, surf breaks, diving spots, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is it easy to travel to and within Bali?

Bali is easily accessible, with 43 international and domestic airlines operating flights into Denpasar Airport (DPS) from 58 global locations, along with public ferries from Java and Lombok.

Once you arrive, walking isn’t the best option for getting around due to the hot and humid weather, busy streets, and uneven sidewalks. You can hail taxis from the roadside or book them online. While many taxi companies use a universal blue color, Bluebird taxis are known for their reliable meters, affordable fares, and solid reputation. Additionally, Bali has ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek for car and motorcycle services, as well as delivery options.

Busing around Bali is a slower and less popular choice for travelers, though it is economical. Perama Tour provides a daily shuttle bus service to major attractions.

Fast-boat services connect you to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, with smaller vessels facilitating travel between the two islands. To avoid the two-hour road congestion, since 2023, an ocean taxi service called goboat.id has been offering daily rides between Canggu and Uluwatu. Expect a picturesque yet wet 35-minute journey in a traditional jukung outrigger fishing boat.

Motorcycle and car rentals are widely available at reasonable prices, but be cautious; the roads can be perilous, and navigating the hectic traffic in tourist hotspots can be daunting. Opting for a car with a driver may provide a more relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Must-do activities in Bali

Admire the sight of an active volcano

Want to experience breathtaking views? If you're short on time, a day trip to Kintamani to see Gunung Batur volcano and its crater lake is an absolute must. Early mornings are ideal, and you can enjoy breakfast, coffee, a buffet lunch, or a beer at one of the many eateries perched on the ancient caldera's edge.

Experience a natural spectacle at Petulu

If you’re in Ubud, take a trip to the nearby village of Petulu in the late afternoon to marvel at thousands of white herons returning to roost for the night.

Strike a pose for the day

Join a private Instagram Tour to capture stunning photos at some of the island's top locations, including Lake Tamblingan, Tukad Cepung waterfall, Taman Tirta Gangga water palace, and the Gates of Heaven at the Pura Lempuyang temple complex.

Step outside your comfort zone

The vibrant, authentic heart of Denpasar reveals a raw glimpse of daily life. While many tourists overlook Bali’s capital, those willing to embrace a bit of adventure amidst the bustling streets and commission hunters will uncover treasures in this rich hub of markets, temples, and monuments. Browse for handicrafts and artwork at Kumbasari Art Market, pick up fabrics on Jalan Sulawesi, and find gold jewelry on Jalan Hasanuddin.

My top pick for activities in Bali

As you approach Bali’s international airport from the west, you'll soar just above the frothy waves and small fishing boats, heading towards the stunning golden sands of Jimbaran Beach.

For the past 26 years, Jimbaran has been my favorite beach. It offers safe swimming (with the occasional big wave) and remains wonderfully unspoiled and tranquil during the day. Here, you can rent a sun lounger and umbrella, enjoying cold drinks, snacks, or fresh seafood from local cafes. The bay faces west, so make sure to linger long enough to witness one of Bali’s famous sunsets.

How much should I budget for Bali?

One of the great pleasures of vacationing in Bali is the variety of choices available. For instance, a clean and comfortable hotel room for two can be found for as low as 500,000Rp (US$31) if you're looking to save money, while a luxury suite in a fabulous resort may cost up to 30,000,000Rp (US$1300). A nasi goreng (fried rice) from a roadside warung (food stall) typically costs around 50,000Rp (US$3), whereas it could be ten times that in a fine-dining restaurant. 

• Hostel room: 100,000Rp (US$6)
• Perama shuttle bus from Kuta to Ubud: 100,000Rp (US$6)
• Cappuccino: 35,000Rp (US$2)
• Sandwich: 60,000Rp (US$4)
• Dinner for two: 400,000Rp (US$25)
• Bottle of Bintang beer at a casual beach bar: 35,000Rp (US$2)    
• Petrol: 14,000Rp (US$1) per liter         
• Self-drive car rental: 325,000Rp (US$20) for 24 hours

Cash or credit card?

You’ll need both. Cash is necessary for taxis, temple entry fees, market stalls, bars, and casual eateries, as most smaller local businesses lack card payment options. Credit cards can be used at supermarkets, international restaurants, hotels, and larger retail stores.

Will my travel insurance cover motorcycle accidents in Bali?

It's likely not covered. Most insurance policies stipulate that you must possess a full license for a 125cc motorcycle in your home country, along with an international or Indonesian license. Failing to wear a helmet or driving under the influence will void your coverage. Carefully review your policy details. Many GoFundMe campaigns are set up by families of seriously injured tourists to manage the exorbitant hospital and evacuation costs.

How can I show respect for Balinese people and their culture?

There have been numerous high-profile cases of foreigners disrespecting the local culture and laws in Bali. To be a considerate visitor, steer clear of reckless driving, nudity, and excessive public displays of affection. Additionally, avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in less touristy areas, as it may draw negative attention.

What should I pack for Bali?

Pack light cotton clothing, T-shirts, shorts, sandals, swimwear, and relaxed resort wear. If you forget something or need attire for Bali’s vibrant nightlife, you can easily find what you need in the shops and boutiques in tourist areas.