Bali holidays

Bali is a natural playground of beaches, volcanoes, rice terraces, waterfalls and mountains. Gaze in awe at the Tegenungan Waterfall, meet macaques at Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud Sanctuary, and chase the sunrise at Mount Batur Viewpoint. With visits to West Bali National Park and the Gili Islands too, one holiday to Bali is never enough.

Bali is home to stunning temples that reflect the island’s rich Hindu heritage. Watch the panoramas unfold as you ascend the 1,700 steps to Lempuyang Temple, admire fiery sunsets from clifftop Pura Tanah Lot and take a trip into the jungle to find Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave). Whether you’re spiritual or not, a holiday in Bali can’t help but stir the soul.

With traditions rooted in ancient rituals and wellness, it’s no surprise Bali is packed with yoga retreats and health resorts. Practice your sun salutations at the Yoga Barn in Ubud. Or treat yourself to a traditional ‘mandi lulur’ (exfoliation rub) at Seminyak’s upscale spas. Relaxation is a way of life here.

Glamour meets boho chic in southern Seminyak, one of the best areas to stay in Bali if you’re looking for a calmer alternative to tourist-heavy Kuta. Expect white-sand beaches, lavish hotels, designer boutiques, and yoga studios. Its trendy beachfront cafes stay open late, so you can keep the good times rolling after dark.

Good for: Luxury hotels, popular beaches, nightlife

Looking to surf? Then Canggu, on the island’s south coast, is where to stay in Bali to be close to a consistent break. You’ll find steady swells at Echo Beach, Berawa Beach and Old Man’s Beach. Stick around after sunset when the party scene comes alive at oceanfront clubs like Finns and Cafe Del Mar.

Good for: Surfing, laid-back vibe, nightlife

Nusa Dua is your spot for a luxury experience. High-end resorts, calm beaches and excellent water sports have made it a popular destination with tourists since the 1970s. Stake out a day bed on Samuh Beach and drive along the coast to Uluwatu Temple, where fire dances are performed at sunset.

Good for: Luxury resorts, calm beaches, temples

You’ll find plenty of things to do with family in Bali. Sanur’s uncrowded beaches are perfect for families looking for downtime. Or ramp up the excitement at Waterbom Bali theme park in Kuta. With snorkelling, surfing and beach spots like Sunday Beach Club and Atlas Beach Club catering to kids, the whole gang is guaranteed fun.

The Island of the Gods is a shopper’s paradise, with markets, boutiques and malls galore. Head to Ubud Art Market for Balinese souvenirs. Celuk Village specialises in handcrafted jewellery, and Kopi Luwak serves some of the island’s best coffee. Shopping in Bali for your favourite brand names? Malls like Mal Bali Galeria and Seminyak Village have got you covered.

When you’re not busy beach-hopping, take time to explore the museums in Bali. Learn about the island’s history at the Bali Museum in Denpasar. Or head to the Neka Art Museum in Ubud for a primer in Balinese art. Looking for something a little different? The collection of ceremonial monster and demon figures at Mengwi’s Ogoh-Ogoh museum is just the ticket.

The best nightlife in Bali happens in the south of the island. Catch international DJ sets at Seminyak’s high-end clubs or dance till dawn at one of Uluwatu’s clifftop party spots. Planning a cheap holiday to Bali? Make a beeline for Kutu’s main road, Jalan Legian, where you’ll find some of the area’s most popular (and affordable) clubs.

Balinese food is an explosion of Indonesian, Indian, Chinese and European flavours. Tuck into ‘nasi goreng’ (fried rice) in the ‘warungs’ (local restaurants) along Canggu’s Batu Bolong Street. Or sample delicious street food at the Sindhu Night Market after a day at the beach. Looking for something upscale? Merah Putih in Seminyak is one of the best restaurants in Bali.

The beaches in Bali are some of the best in the world. Steal a quiet morning on Ungasan’s Green Bowl Beach or party the night away on Seminyak Beach. Kelingking Beach earns the nickname ‘T-Rex Beach’ for its unique rock formations. And if you’re a thrill-seeking surfer, don’t miss the gnarly waves at Nusa Dua Beach.