Exploring Bali: top ways to discover your own slice of paradise

With its rich Hindu culture, stunning tropical scenery, and longstanding tradition of warm hospitality, Bali is among the most exhilarating destinations for activities on the globe.

Whether you enjoy surfing, practicing yoga, hiking volcanoes, diving in crystal-clear reefs, or tackling white-water rapids, Bali presents a wealth of vibrant and captivating experiences. On the 'island of the gods,' you'll also find opportunities for relaxation and indulgence – it’s not solely about thrills and adventure.

To help you begin your journey, here’s our selection of the top activities to enjoy on your Bali trip.

Grab your surfboard and ride the waves at the Bali pipeline

Bali is renowned as one of the premier destinations for surfing worldwide. The island is famous for its top-tier waves, including Uluwatu, Padang Padang (known as 'the Balinese Pipeline'), and the aptly named Impossibles. However, there are numerous spots suitable for both intermediate and beginner surfers.

For novice surfers, Canggu and Kuta Beach serve as the best hubs on the island. Canggu boasts many board rental stations and surf schools offering lessons; Echo Beach is a great spot for gentle waves to help you get your bearings. Kuta Beach also has many rental options and surf schools, with waves that are typically even more relaxed for learning.

However, many beginners discover that high tide at Kuta can bring steep, powerful shore-breakers that are often tricky even for seasoned surfers. It’s best to schedule your lessons around low tide and save the more challenging waves for later in your surfing journey.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, Medewi in West Bali features one of Bali’s lesser-known surf spots. The point itself is rocky, making it ideal for intermediate or advanced surfers, but on either side of Medewi, you'll find 10km (6.2mi) of sandy beach breaks that seldom see other surfers.

Experience the thrilling white waters of the Ayung Valley on a rafting adventure

Jungle rivers flow down from Bali's volcanic highlands, carving stunning ravines that are among the island's most surprising geographical features. The southern hills are filled with these rivers, and rafting provides a fantastic way to explore the untouched jungle canyons.

While Bali’s rivers might not present the most intense rapids, the trade-off for adrenaline is the joy of witnessing the Ubud area from an unexpected perspective. It's astonishing to discover such unspoiled forest valleys just a short distance from the lively town of Ubud.

Mason Adventures is a highly regarded rafting company offering the longest trips on the Ayung Valley, spanning 12km (7.5mi). You can pair an Ayung Valley rafting experience with a thrilling 30km (18.5mi) mountain bike tour that predominantly descends.

Embark on a 'safari' in the untamed wilds of West Bali

West Bali offers a unique experience away from the crowds, where you can marvel at the critically endangered Bali starlings flying overhead, wild ebony leaf monkeys swinging through the trees, and giant monitor lizards tasting the air with their flicking tongues. Herds of Menjangan deer are known to approach beach bungalows, famously cooling off in the shallow waters.

West Bali National Park can only be explored with a guide, yet even when venturing independently outside the reserve, you can't help but feel that West Bali retains a fundamentally 'wild' essence. To embrace this atmosphere, consider trekking through the surprisingly dry cactus hills or along the vineyard-dotted northern coast, or observe macaques roaming freely at the numerous temples in the area.

Just to the east of the national park, The Menjangan stands out as the island's most unexpectedly untamed resort. Even if you're not a guest here, you can rent bikes and arrange guided walks, horseback rides, and birdwatching tours.

Balance your chakras and embrace the yogi lifestyle

Yoga has been a part of life on the Hindu island of Bali for over a millennium, but the commercial yoga movement really took off in the early 2000s. Ubud, in particular, has established itself as the yoga capital of Southeast Asia.

Starting from a single modest yoga shala in 2007, Yoga Barn has transformed into a central hub in Ubud, featuring seven studios that offer an impressive 130 classes each week. The venue also includes a restaurant, café, yoga shop, and accommodations for students attending teacher training or specialized courses.

In contrast, Radiantly Alive maintains a more laid-back vibe with just 60 classes per week, making it a beloved choice among local yogis. Situated in a quiet lane in the old town, it fosters an intimate, community-oriented atmosphere. Radiantly Alive also operates a yoga studio in Canggu.

Explore Bali's vibrant underwater world

Nestled within the Coral Triangle, Indonesia is home to some of the most diverse marine ecosystems on the planet, and Bali features premier diving and snorkeling locations. The entire northern coast, shielded from the southern waves, offers a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Nusa Lembongan is an excellent starting point; Bali Hai organizes diving day trips to spots like 'Manta Alley' and provides full PADI certification courses.

Menjangan Island, located at Bali’s northwest tip, provides exceptional diving opportunities away from the crowds. You can encounter a vibrant array of reef fish, turtles, reef sharks, and, if fortune smiles upon you, dolphins and whale sharks. The Menjangan offers kayak rentals and can organize guided diving and snorkeling excursions to the island.

Unwind at an exclusive beach club in Bali

Renowned for its stunning beaches, Bali boasts a remarkable selection of wild, often secluded shores in addition to the bustling “town beaches” like Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu. If you wish to escape the crowded sands, spending a day at a private beach club can be a truly memorable experience.

Potato Head in Seminyak has established itself as a Bali icon. More than just a beach club, this vibrant venue features two infinity pools, a music venue, and several acclaimed restaurants, including Ijen, Bali’s first zero-waste eatery. Along the beach, Mrs Sippy showcases Bali’s largest saltwater pool, presenting itself as a Mediterranean-inspired haven.

In Canggu, Finns Beach Club has become a staple of Bali life, featuring five bars (including two sunken pool bars), three restaurants, and a live music area, all set within a beautifully designed space that lies between two pools and the ocean.

If you find yourself in Sanur, don’t miss Byrdhouse Beach Club, a vibrant extension of the lovely Segara Village Hotel, which has been family-run since the 1950s. Byrdhouse boasts a 25m-long infinity pool, expansive beachfront lawns, quality dining options, and arguably the finest Jacuzzi cocktail bar you'll ever experience.

Indulge in a holistic spa experience in Bali

Whether you opt for a relaxing après-surf massage on the beach or a full day of pampering at a luxurious spa, Bali elevates vacation relaxation to new heights. The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan and Fivelements Retreat near Ubud are accessible to non-guests and are considered among the best wellness retreats in the world.

The Sacred River Spa at the Four Seasons offers a complete experience: spa treatments, traditional healing practices, and chakra ceremonies set against the stunning backdrop of the Ayung Valley. Fivelements focuses on holistic therapies inspired by Balinese culture, emphasizing plant-based cuisine, sacred arts, and romantic day experiences ideal for couples. Both locations also provide yoga and various wellness packages.

Glo Spa Bali comes highly recommended for its massages and beauty services, attracting many loyal patrons. For budget travelers, Yes Spa Bali in Kuta or Legian is a great option, offering superb traditional Balinese massages for under US$8.

Experience a unique paddy field tour by walking with pink buffaloes

Water buffalo have become increasingly scarce in Bali since the advent of mechanized farming, but you can still find some of the island's rare pink buffalo diligently working in the fields, especially in West Bali. Consider joining a half-day guided paddy walk with pink buffaloes near Pekutatan to learn about the significant role these majestic animals play in rice cultivation and the intricate rituals associated with rice farming on the island.

Ascend Batur volcano at dawn

The summit of Batur volcano, standing at 1717m (5633ft), is arguably the best vantage point for witnessing the sunrise on an island that Indian statesman Jawaharlal Nehru referred to as the 'morning of the world.' From the crater's edge, you'll gaze upon Mt. Agung – Bali’s tallest peak and the spiritual home of the gods in Balinese belief – alongside Mt. Rinjani on the distant island of Lombok.

Prepare to rise early to experience this breathtaking sight. Most tours begin with hotel pickups between 1am and 2am, allowing hikers to complete the km (2.2mi) trek and reach the summit just in time for sunrise.

Capture the vibrant colors of Asia’s traditional fishing fleet

The fleet of selerek (traditional Balinese fishing boats) at Perancak inlet is one of the island's most remarkable yet lesser-known attractions. Resembling vividly painted Viking longboats adorned with uniquely styled crow’s nests (some resembling chariots) and longtail engines jutting from their brightly colored hulls, these boats will amaze anyone willing to explore this untouched part of West Bali.

Wander through the lush fields of Jatiluwih Paddies

Located just 15km (9.3mi) north of Ubud, the charming rice terraces of Tegallalang attract many tourists. However, as development continues to encroach on Tegallalang, especially at sunset, it becomes increasingly difficult to appreciate the valley’s beauty amidst the cacophony of honking tour buses.

To truly appreciate the stunning paddy landscapes in Bali's lesser-explored areas, make your way to the expansive Jatiluwih terraces, located about 40km (25 miles) to the northwest. This picturesque countryside is ideal for solitary strolls, but hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the 1000-year-old subak irrigation system, recognized on Unesco’s cultural heritage list.