Things to do in Bali

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All about Bali

When to visit

The Balinese year is a game of two halves: wet season and dry season. The weather is less predictable as the climate changes, but the dry season runs roughly April to September, bringing clearer skies and taking the edge off the tropical humidity. Shoulder seasons (April–June and September) are the best times to visit. Bali’s limited infrastructure groans at the seams during the July-August summer peak and the December-January Christmas peak, when traffic is a recipe for road rage.

Getting around

Bali’s infrastructure doesn’t really extend to public transit. Buses cover a handful of routes; a boat service links Canggu and Uluwatu; and the Perama shuttle bus connects some popular destinations. However, for a typical day of touring, you’ll want your own wheels. Car rentals are a popular solution; Bluebird is a well-regarded meter taxi firm; and GoJek and Grab offer 4-wheel and 2-wheel rideshares. Don’t ride a motorbike without a helmet, travel insurance, and a locally valid license.

Traveler tips

Bali’s signature dish is babi guling, suckling pig spit-roasted and served with golden crackling, meaty sides, a coconut salad, cassava leaves, white rice, sambal, and a tangy pork bone soup. For a taste of the authentic Bali, head into the island’s bustling capital, Denpasar. The restaurant Babi Guling Chandra started in the 1980s as a tiny street stall and is one of few babi guling eateries to roast its own pigs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should you not miss in Bali?

Bali’s natural wonders include volcanoes, waterfalls, gorgeous beaches, and world-class surfing and diving. But it’s culture that makes the island unique. In between sexy beach clubs and decadent restaurants, hit temples like Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, and Monkey Forest, eat babi guling (suckling pig), and explore Ubud’s galleries and museums.

What is the best month to go to Bali?

May is the best month to go to Bali. The rainy season has finished but the crowds escaping the Australian winter and European summer have not arrived. That means lower humidity, fewer crowds, and generally clear skies—not to mention great surf on the west and south coasts.

How many days do you need in Bali?

Flying to Bali causes real damage to the environment. You can reduce your carbon footprint and see more of this fascinating island by staying for at least 10 days. That lets you experience bars, clubs, beaches, culture, nature, diving, surfing, temples, restaurants, museums, waterfalls, and offshore islands like Penida Island.

Which part of Bali should I visit?

Bali has something for every traveler. Ubud is the island’s art and culture capital; Canggu and Seminyak offer shops, bars, spas, clubs, cafés, and restaurants; Uluwatu boasts world-class waves and cliff-top clubs. Try Amed, Padangbai, or Pemuteran for diving and snorkeling, Sidemen for a slice of rural life, or Sanur for kid-friendly beach.

What should I see in Bali?

There’s so much to see in Bali. Instagrammers love Bali’s swings, cafés, beach clubs, and waterfalls. Active travelers can snorkel with mantas, learn to surf, or scale Mt. Batur volcano. Culture vultures can enjoy temples like Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, and Monkey Forest, galleries like ARMA, or the magical Tirta Gangga Water Garden.

Is Bali expensive to visit?

No. Bali need not be expensive to visit. You can splurge thousands on vintage champagne, fine dining, and an ultra-luxury villa, or stay in a simple guesthouse for under US$20 and eat street food for under US$5. Transport costs can be significant unless you are licensed (and insured!) to drive.

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