15 Inspiring Things to Do and See in Bali, Indonesia

I’ve lived on this island for almost my entire life, yet I still find new things to discover. I always urge first-time visitors to dig deeper and explore the real Bali, beyond the more obvious photogenic spots. 

The beauty of Bali lies in its welcoming and close-knit community. This collective spirit preserves the island’s culture, nature, and traditions. It’s right there in the beaming smile of a grandmother you pass on the street, or in the easy-going "Where do you come from?" that the Balinese often use to start a conversation with a stranger.

While Bali’s popularity means you’ll have to share it with other visitors, careful planning can make a big difference. Book a car and driver through the concierge, and leave your hotel early in the morning to beat the crowds. 

Eight times the size of Singapore, Bali holds countless discoveries just waiting to be uncovered. Here, I share my favourite things to do in Bali. Some recommendations can be completed within half a day or less, while the rest require a full-day trip.

1. WATCH THE KECAK DANCE IN THE ULUWATU TEMPLE AT SUNSET

I still get goosebumps when I hear the chants of ‘cak cak cak’ from a troupe of Balinese men entering the amphitheatre to begin the one-hour Kecak Dance performance. It depicts the epic tale of the Ramayana through a circular choreography of dances, sounds, fire shows, and no musical instruments. Set 150 metres (492 feet) above sea level, the outdoor theatre offers endearing, family-friendly entertainment where good triumphs over evil, assisted by the cheeky help of the monkey king, Hanuman. Arrive before the show starts at 17:45 to get a good seat, and book your ticket in advance as the show is highly popular.

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2. APPRECIATE ICONIC FINE ART AT MUSEUM PASIFIKA

Home to an extensive collection of 600 permanently exhibited artworks, Museum Pasifika in Nusa Dua showcases paintings, sculptures, masks, and many celebrated pièce de résistance from the Asia-Pacific region. I find it easy to spend two hours gazing at masterpieces by Indonesian maestros such as Raden Saleh, I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, and Affandi. The museum has rooms dedicated to Italian, French, Dutch, and international artists who lived and worked in Indonesia. From Walter Spies to Miguel Covarrubias, get ready to be swept away on a seductive visual journey that spans centuries. Open daily, tickets can be purchased at the door. 

3. SOAR ABOVE BALI’S VOLCANOES

The island has 11 mountains, including two active volcanoes: Mount Agung and Mount Batur. The former is the highest mountain on the island, while the latter is known for its caldera and the adjoining Lake Batur. To get a better look at Mount Batur, book a 66-minute helicopter tour for you and your family. Operated by Fly Bali, the Volcanoes & Temples ride starts in Ungasan and flies closer to Mount Batur. Look out for the ancient temples, lush rice terraces, and winding coastline you'll see along the way. And why not end the adventure with celebratory cocktails at L’Atelier by Cyril Kongo, an equally sky-high lounge on the topmost floor of The Apurva Kempinski Bali?

4. FEAST ON INDONESIAN REGIONAL CUISINE

No trip to Bali is complete without experiencing authentic Indonesian regional cuisine. Hidden at the John Hardy Boutique & Gallery in Seminyak is one of my favourite spots to taste the flavours of the archipelago’s traditional specialities. From Sumatra to Sulawesi, Chef Tomy Saputra flawlessly transforms local produce into a multi-course sharing menu for The Long Table lunch or dinner. Perfect for families, the intimate setting overlooks the gallery’s green lawn. Don’t miss ordering the herbaceous jamu cocktails (I never do!) and head upstairs for a bit of handcrafted jewellery shopping after dessert. Reservations are recommended. 

5. JOIN A WALKING TOUR 

Delve deeper and discover why Ubud is the heart of Bali’s art and culture by joining a local-led, three-hour walking tour with Ubud Story Walks. On your journey, an English-speaking guide will show you a royal gate built by a 116-year-old sculptor, a powerful confluence between two rivers, and many other arresting remnants of history. The Ubud’s Journey from Past to Present walking tour is available daily, with two departures per day. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, and bring water and an umbrella.

6. VISIT THE ANCIENT CANDI TEBING GUNUNG KAWI 

I believe that the Gunung Kawi river valley complex is one of Bali’s loveliest ancient destinations. There’s a mystical ambience that radiates from this complex, located just 30 minutes away from Ubud. Because it is only accessible via a 250-step staircase, the complex remains less crowded. Built in the 11th century, the site features 10 majestic shrines, and memorials carved directly into the cliff face as a dedication to the great kings and queens of the past. Visitors must wear a sash and sarong, available for borrowing at the ticket booth. Combine a trip to this temple with a visit to the nearby Goa Gajah complex, renowned for its cave, temple, and bathing pools.

7. EAT AT ASIA’S MOST SUSTAINABLE RESTAURANT 2025

Still in Ubud, be sure to book a table at Locavore NXT, the winner of the Sustainable Restaurant Award at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025. Built with sustainability from the ground up, this progressive dining destination is powered by 172 solar panels and features a rooftop food forest and a fermentation kitchen that transforms food waste into delicious components for the 20-plus-course hyper-local and seasonal tasting menu. Make the most of your visit by arriving early to explore the restaurant's compelling space, artworks, and exhibits.

8. SUPPORT LOCAL CRAFTSMANSHIP AND ARTISANS

Ubud is also home to many local artisans, so it’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs. Visit Threads of Life for Indonesia’s exquisite hand-woven textile arts, Toko Elami for unique handmade gifts and games, and Gaya Ceramic for beautiful handmade tableware. The gift shop at The Apurva Kempinski Bali, Asha Curated Boutique & Gallery, also showcases a stunning selection of ready-to-wear clothing, as well as arts and crafts from talented Indonesian artists.

9. TREK THROUGH A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE

The regency of Tabanan is known as Bali’s heartland. As seen in the terraced emerald-green rice fields of Jatiluwih, it is where rice grows abundantly. The rice terrace’s age-old irrigation system is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On weekends, I enjoy taking the time to explore its many trekking routes and hidden waterfalls. Stop by Batukaru Kopi for a caffeine fix and a rejuvenating view of the rice fields from its perch.

10. HOP OVER TO BALI’S NEIGHBOURING ISLANDS

The best part about living in an archipelagic nation is the fact that it’s easy to explore different islands. Bali’s three sister islands – Nusa Penida, Lembongan, and Ceningan – are worth a day trip. The islands are easy to access from Sanur Harbour. 

Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida offers wonderful opportunities for diving, snorkelling, and beach explorations. Meanwhile, Lembongan and Ceningan are great for their many different beaches, surf breaks, and laid-back atmosphere.

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11. HAVE A PICNIC AT THE BEDUGUL BOTANICAL GARDEN

Located in the highlands of Bali, the Bedugul Botanical Garden enjoys a cooler temperature. I love to bring a book and have a picnic there, especially after a stroll among its tropical plants, towering trees, orchids, and ferns. Nearby, you can also visit the Handara Golf Course with its 18-hole challenge, as well as the picturesque Beratan and Buyan Lakes.

12. CYCLE ALONG SANUR’S BEACH PATH

The charming coastal town of Sanur features a meandering seven-kilometre (4.3-mile) beach path that beckons exploration. Only walking or cycling is allowed along this path, making it a relaxing and safe experience for visitors of all ages. Pack a sarong and swimwear, rent a bicycle, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the calm waters. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of temples, charming cafés, and coral-adorned houses to captivate your senses. Stop by for a fresh coconut at Soul on the Beach.

13. DINE AT THE ISLAND’S FIRST AQUARIUM RESTAURANT

Home to some of Bali’s most outstanding dining destinations, The Apurva Kempinski Bali is where residents and visitors come to dine in five-star luxury, at Koral. As Bali’s first aquarium restaurant, diners are spoiled with a coastal-inspired degustation menu while enjoying the natural beauty of underwater life. Open daily for lunch and dinner, reservations are required, and the dress code is smart casual.

14. SAIL INTO THE SUNSET IN A LOCAL FISHING BOAT

One of the most epic sailing trips I’ve ever been on was aboard the Black Pearl, an outrigger that sets off from Jimbaran Bay and cruises along the coast before dropping anchor just in time for sunset. The crew arrives armed with a box full of cold beer. The Black Pearl offers a fleet of outriggers in various sizes, suitable for a large group of families or friends. Reservations are essential. 

15. FAMILY FUN TIME IN BALI’S BEST RECREATIONAL PARKS

Bali offers a plethora of activities for families with kids. Whether it’s an educational zoo trip or a splashing good time in a waterpark, there’s plenty of choice for a memorable family day out. I’m a fan of Waterbom Bali, which not only excels with its 26 slides and attractions but is also committed to sustainability, aiming to achieve net zero by 2033. 

A visit to Bali Safari and Marine Park will undoubtedly be another highlight for the little ones. And don’t miss the chance to meet over 1,300 birds of more than 250 species at the Bali Bird Park sanctuary.

The enduring charm of Bali lies in its ability to cater to diverse interests. Whether you're visiting as a solo traveller, a couple, a family with young children, or a multigenerational group, there are endless meaningful activities and cherished moments to be had on this lush island framed by mountains and the sea. 

If you enjoyed this, why not hear about why Bali is the perfect choice for a multi-generational getaway?