The complete travel guide to Bali
The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide – From Ubud to Uluwatu + Island Hopping
Bali is one of those places that truly has it all — beaches, temples, volcanoes, waterfalls, and a deep sense of culture that you feel everywhere you go. During our journey through Bali, we explored every corner of the island — from the laid-back surf towns in the south, to the jungle-covered heart around Ubud, and the peaceful north. We also hopped across to the Nusa and Gili Islands, and even made it to Komodo National Park.
This is the most complete guide to Bali and its surrounding islands, based on our own experiences — the perfect starting point for planning your own adventure.
Central Bali: Ubud – Culture and Rice Terraces
If there’s one place that captures the spirit of Bali, it’s Ubud. Nestled among rice terraces, waterfalls, and jungle, Ubud is both peaceful and full of life. We spent several days here exploring its temples, nature walks, and hidden spots.
Highlights in Ubud
Our journey starts in Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. Accommodation in Ubud can be surprisingly affordable—staying in a traditional Buddhist temple for just $25 called Betutu Bali Villas, including breakfast, was an unforgettable experience.
Ubud Royal Palace
A historical site where artists sought inspiration in the 19th century. The palace grounds feature impressive statues and temples.
Ubud Monkey Forest
One of Ubud’s most famous attractions. A sacred sanctuary filled with playful long-tailed macaques. It’s not just about the monkeys — the moss-covered temples and ancient statues make it feel like a jungle temple from another world.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
A peaceful and scenic trail just outside the center of Ubud. Early morning is best to walk through the lush green hills with beautiful views and fewer crowds.
Ubud Market & Palace
Right in the heart of town, you’ll find local crafts, sarongs, jewelry, and souvenirs at the Ubud Market. Across the street, the Ubud Palace offers a glimpse into Balinese royal architecture — come back in the evening for traditional dance performances.
Excursions from Ubud (book your trips here)
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Located about 2 hours from Ubud, these UNESCO World Heritage terraces are larger and more scenic than the closer Tegalalang terraces. The intricate patterns of green paddies are truly mesmerizing. A perfect day trip from Ubud.
Luwak Coffee Plantation
Home to the world’s most expensive coffee, made from beans eaten and excreted by a small civet cat. Sampling both regular Balinese coffee and Luwak coffee is a must!
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Famous and photogenic, closer to Ubud.
You can walk through the terraces, enjoy a swing over the valley, or have a coffee with a view at one of the many cafés.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Located just a short drive from Ubud, Tegenungan Waterfall is one of Bali’s most popular and easily accessible waterfalls. Despite being well-known, it’s still worth visiting — especially early in the morning before the crowds arrive. You can swim at the base, walk up to several viewpoints, and enjoy the lush jungle surroundings.
North Bali – Lakes, Temples & Waterfalls
We loved the Northern and Eastern parts of Bali for their peaceful vibe and stunning landscapes. It’s a side of the island that many skip — but it’s absolutely worth it.
Munduk
High in the mountains, surrounded by waterfalls, coffee plantations, and cool air. Don’t miss Munduk Waterfall, Banyumala Twin Falls, and the scenic Handara Gate.
Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Floating on Lake Bratan, this temple is one of Bali’s most iconic images — especially beautiful in the early morning mist.
Lovina
A calm coastal town known for sunrise dolphin tours and black-sand beaches. A nice place to slow down for a few days.
Amed
A relaxed fishing village turned snorkeling and diving hub. You can explore coral reefs, see shipwrecks, and enjoy views of Mount Agung from the beach.
Tirta Gangga Water Palace
A stunning royal water garden filled with pools, fountains, and stepping stones — one of the most peaceful places on the island.
Lempuyang Temple (“Gates of Heaven”)
One of Bali’s most famous temples, known for the photo view of Mount Agung framed by two gates. Go early morning to avoid crowds.
South Bali – the must-visits
After exploring central Bali, we headed south — the liveliest and trendiest part of the island. This is where you’ll find beach clubs, surf breaks, and those famous Bali sunsets.
Canggu
Trendy and relaxed, filled with surf breaks, smoothie bowls, beach clubs, and boutique cafés. Ideal for digital nomads or those who want a stylish coastal vibe.
Seminyak
More upscale, with resorts, fine dining, and chic beach clubs like Potato Head and Ku De Ta. The sunsets here are incredible.
Tanah Lot Temple
One of Bali’s most iconic temples, perched dramatically on a rock in the ocean. Visit during low tide and stay for sunset.
Uluwatu
Dramatic cliffs, world-class surf, and the famous Uluwatu Temple overlooking the ocean. Don’t miss Padang Padang and Bingin Beach, and catch a traditional Kecak Fire Dance at sunset.
Island Hopping from Bali
From Bali, you can easily explore several paradise islands. These islands are our favorites:
Nusa Lembongan
Only a short 30-minute boat ride away from Bali, you’ll find Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. The two islands are connected by the famous Yellow Bridge, and exploring both by scooter or bicycle is super easy.
Nusa Lembongan
We loved Lembongan for its relaxed vibe, cozy cafes, and beautiful beaches. Snorkeling here is incredible — with clear water and a good chance to spot manta rays and colorful coral reefs. Mushroom Bay and Dream Beach are great for swimming and sunbathing, while Devil’s Tear is a must-see for the crashing waves and powerful ocean spray.
Nusa Ceningan
Smaller and even quieter, but incredibly scenic. Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon, one of the most stunning turquoise bays you’ll ever see. There are cliffside restaurants where you can enjoy lunch with breathtaking views, and small hidden beaches like Secret Beach where you might be completely alone.
Where to stay: Abian Huts
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is the largest of the three Nusa islands and easily one of the most spectacular places we’ve ever visited. It’s raw, rugged, and full of dramatic cliffs and turquoise water. While it’s just a short 30-minute boat ride from Bali, it feels like a completely different world — quieter, wilder, and more adventurous.
We spent several days exploring both the west and east sides of the island, and every spot blew us away.
What to do on Nusa Penida
Kelingking Beach
The famous “T-Rex” cliff that you’ve probably seen on Instagram a hundred times — but nothing compares to seeing it in real life. The hike down is steep and challenging, but the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking.
Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong
Two incredible natural formations right next to each other. Broken Beach is a circular cove where waves crash through a natural arch, while Angel’s Billabong is a crystal-clear infinity pool carved into the rocks.
Diamond Beach & Atuh Beach
On the east side of the island, these two beaches are postcard-perfect. Diamond Beach has white sand, turquoise water, and a dramatic staircase carved into the cliffside. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Indonesia.
Thousand Islands Viewpoint & Tree House (Rumah Pohon)
Nearby, you’ll find a series of viewpoints overlooking small islands and turquoise bays — and even a treehouse where you can stay or take photos with one of the best views on the island.
Crystal Bay
A calm beach perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and watching the sunset. It’s also one of the few easily accessible beaches on the island.
While Nusa Penida’s roads can be rough, the reward is worth it. Every corner offers another stunning view — it’s adventure travel at its best.
Where to stay: Bintang Bungalow -> highly recommend! Great value for money
Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the island.
If you’re looking for that perfect balance of relaxation and adventure — this is it. The Nusa Islands are close to Bali, but they feel like a secret paradise.
Gili Islands
Gili Trawangan
We chose to stay on Gili Trawangan, and it turned out to be an amazing choice. The island has so much to offer! You can easily spot sea turtles just by stepping into the water, play mini-golf, and explore countless restaurants and bars. Cycling around the island is a must and gives you the perfect chance to enjoy its relaxed vibe and scenic beaches. It’s an island full of life but still peaceful enough to unwind.
Accommodation tip: Villa Rika
Gili Meno
Gili Meno is the quietest of the three Gili islands. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. The beaches are pristine, and the waters are crystal clear, ideal for snorkeling. We loved the calm vibe here – fewer people, more privacy, and plenty of opportunities to spot turtles and tropical fish while swimming. A true hidden gem for those who want a peaceful escape.
Gili Air
The most relaxed of the three islands is Gili Air. It is still easy to reach from Gili Trawangan. Here, the vibe is slower and more local. Snorkeling is incredible, with turtles, colorful coral, and plenty of tropical fish just steps from shore. The island has charming restaurants and bars, perfect for watching the sunset with a cold drink in hand. Cycling or walking around gives you the full experience of island life without the crowds.
Komodo National Park (Flores)
After exploring Bali and the surrounding islands, we flew east to Labuan Bajo, the gateway to Komodo National Park — one of the most stunning and untouched regions of Indonesia. It’s a dream destination for adventurers, divers, and nature lovers.
We joined a day trip to explore the islands, and it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of our travels.
Komodo & Rinca Islands
The only places in the world where you can see wild Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Seeing these massive reptiles up close — sometimes more than three meters long — is both fascinating and a little intimidating.
Padar Island
A hike to the top rewards you with one of Indonesia’s most famous views: three crescent-shaped beaches in different colors — one pink, one white, and one dark. The best time to climb is at sunrise or sunset.
Pink Beach
A rare natural wonder with pink-tinted sand caused by crushed red coral. The water is calm, crystal-clear, and full of colorful marine life.
Manta Point
One of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world. Swimming alongside giant manta rays was one of the highlights of our entire Indonesia trip.
Taka Makassar & Kanawa Island
Tiny sandbars and islands surrounded by turquoise water — perfect for drone shots, relaxing, and snorkeling.
Cruising through Komodo National Park feels like entering a prehistoric world — wild landscapes, untouched islands, and endless horizons.
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