Bali is one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations. Most articles repeat the same places. They do this without giving real insights. We explored the island during our trip. Based on our experiences, these are the 10 best places to go in Bali. They are tested and approved from our real experience. From temples and jungle to cliffs, beaches, volcanoes and snorkeling, here’s everything you shouldn’t miss.

Table of contents

Table Of Contents

1. 1. Ubud – Our Absolute Favorite Place in Bali
2. 2. Uluwatu – Surf, Sunsets & Dramatic Cliffs
3. 3. Mount Batur – The Best Sunrise Experience
4. 4. Blue Lagoon – Crystal Clear Water & Easy Snorkeling
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5. 5. Nusa Penida – The Famous Kelingking Cliff
6. 6. Kuta Beach – Surf, Bars & Shopping
7. 7. The Gili Islands – No Cars, Just Bikes & Beach Life
8. 8. Amed – Black Sand Beaches & Diving Spots
9. 9. Tirta Empul – Bali’s Sacred Purification Temple
10. 10. Munduk – Waterfalls & Bali’s Mountain Paradise

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1. Ubud – Our Absolute Favorite Place in Bali

If we had to choose only one place to stay in Bali, it would be Ubud. This is the island’s cultural and spiritual heart. It is surrounded by rice terraces, waterfalls, temples, and jungle. and a unique atmosphere complete the experience.

It’s peaceful, green, authentic, and full of things to do — whether you love nature, culture or adventure.

👉 Our tip: Stay in Sebatu, just outside Ubud. It’s calmer, incredibly beautiful and still close to all attractions.

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2. Uluwatu – Surf, Sunsets & Dramatic Cliffs

Uluwatu is a must-visit for surfers, food lovers, and anyone who loves breathtaking ocean views. The cliffs here are some of the most impressive in Bali, especially at Uluwatu Temple during sunset.

The area is also known for its beach clubs, international restaurants, surf spots, and relaxing vibe.

👉 Our tip: Perfect area to enjoy world food, cool bars, and sunset on the cliffs.

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3. Mount Batur – The Best Sunrise Experience

Hiking Mount Batur at sunrise is one of Bali’s most unforgettable experiences. The sky slowly turning pink above the volcano lake is simply magical.

You can also explore the surroundings by scooter — black sand fields, lava rocks and hidden viewpoints.

👉 Our tip: Go early in the morning and dress warm. If you don’t want to hike, you can ride a scooter around the volcano’s base — stunning and underrated.

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4. Blue Lagoon – Crystal Clear Water & Easy Snorkeling

Located in Padang Bai, Blue Lagoon is one of Bali’s best snorkeling spots for beginners and intermediate swimmers. Expect crystal blue water, colorful fish, corals and an easy entry from the beach.

It’s ideal if you want a calm, relaxing marine experience without the crowds.

👉 Our tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and go early to enjoy the calm water.

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5. Nusa Penida – The Famous Kelingking Cliff

Just a short boat ride away, Nusa Penida feels like another world. Wild, dramatic and much less developed, it offers some of the most famous viewpoints in Indonesia — including Kelingking Beach (the “T-Rex cliff”), Manta Bay, and hidden beaches.

👉 Our tip: Roads are rough — rent a scooter only if you’re confident. Also, Bali Belly is very common here, so choose food wisely.

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6. Kuta Beach – Surf, Bars & Shopping

Kuta may not be the calmest place in Bali, but it remains one of the most iconic. Beach bars, waves for beginners, long sandy beaches and busy streets make it lively day and night.

It’s a good place to shop, try surfing for the first time and enjoy cheap restaurants.

👉 Our tip: Come for sunset and grab a drink on the beach — simple and perfect.

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7. The Gili Islands – No Cars, Just Bikes & Beach Life

Even if they are technically not part of Bali, the Gili Islands are a popular extension and absolutely worth the trip. After a 2–3 hour boat ride, you arrive in paradise: turquoise water, white sand, and no cars at all. Everything is done by bike or on foot.

👉 Our tip: Gili Air is perfect for relaxing, Gili Trawangan for nightlife, and Gili Meno for couples.

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8. Amed – Black Sand Beaches & Diving Spots

Amed is a quiet coastal village known for snorkeling, diving, and its black volcanic beaches. It’s one of Bali’s best spots for underwater exploration and a great base for exploring the east.

👉 Our tip: Snorkel at Lipah Beach or the Japanese Shipwreck — beautiful and accessible from the shore.

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9. Tirta Empul – Bali’s Sacred Purification Temple

This temple offers a unique cultural experience where locals participate in a traditional water purification ceremony. The atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual.

👉 Our tip: Wear a sarong, be respectful, and visit with a local guide if you want to understand the ritual. But the place can be very crowded and the experience not enjoyable.

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10. Munduk – Waterfalls & Bali’s Mountain Paradise

Munduk is the perfect escape from Bali’s heat and crowds. Located in the mountains, it offers waterfalls, jungle hikes, lakes, and some of the island’s most beautiful hidden viewpoints.

👉 Our tip: Do the Red Coral → Labuhan Kebo → Melanting waterfall loop — an amazing 3-waterfall hike.

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Places We Don’t Recommend: Canggu

Even if many blogs and influencers hype Canggu, we don’t recommend it.
It’s crowded, dusty, full of traffic jams and scooters everywhere. The beaches are not the best, and the vibe feels more like “digital nomad suburb” than authentic Bali.

If you have limited time, skip it.

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Where to Stay in Bali

Bali has great accommodations for all budgets — villas, homestays, jungle hotels, beach huts and guesthouses. Prices are lower than most countries, and the level of service is excellent.

👉 Our recommendation: Stay in the center of the island (Ubud or Sebatu area) to reach both natural and cultural attractions easily.

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