Introduction
Bali is Indonesia’s most popular island, known for beaches, temples, rice terraces, surfing, yoga retreats, and unique culture.
This guide covers the best areas to stay, main attractions, transport, food, prices, safety, and the best time to visit.
1. Quick Overview
- Country: Indonesia
- Language: Indonesian, Balinese (English in tourist areas)
- Currency: IDR
- Style: beaches, nature, culture, surf, relaxation
- Suitable for: couples, families, backpackers, digital nomads
2. Best Areas to Stay
Seminyak
Trendy area with cafes, boutiques, beach clubs, and mid-range hotels.
Kuta
Lively and budget-friendly, popular among surfers.
Canggu
Modern area with coworking spaces, cafes, surf beaches, and villa rentals. Popular with digital nomads.
Ubud
Cultural center of Bali with rice terraces, temples, yoga studios, eco-resorts.
Jimbaran
Calm area with beachfront hotels and seafood restaurants.
Nusa Dua
Luxury resort area with private beaches.
Sanur
Quiet, family-oriented beach area.
3. Transport in Bali
- Scooter rental: most common way to get around
- Taxis: available but more expensive
- Grab/Gojek: common and cheap
- Private drivers: affordable for day trips
- Buses: limited routes
Traffic can be heavy in popular areas.
4. Top Things To Do
Ubud Rice Terraces
Tegalalang and Jatiluwih terraces.
Temples
Uluwatu Temple, Tanah Lot, Besakih Temple.
Waterfalls
Tegenungan, Sekumpul, Banyumala.
Beaches
Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Dreamland, Nusa Dua.
Mount Batur
Sunrise hiking with panoramic views.
Nusa Islands
Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan.
Cultural Activities
Traditional dances, handicrafts, local markets.
5. Food and Dining
- Indonesian cuisine
- Fresh seafood
- Vegan and healthy cafes
- Balinese specialties: mie goreng, nasi goreng, babi guling
Ubud and Canggu are major food hotspots.
6. Prices (Approx.)
- Transport: low to moderate
- Food: cheap to midrange
- Hotels: budget hostels to luxury villas
- Tours: moderate
7. Safety
- Drive scooters only if experienced
- Be cautious of strong waves
- Watch belongings at beaches
- Check tour companies for safety standards
- Beware of monkeys near temples
8. Best Time to Visit
- April–October: dry season, best weather
- November–March: rainy season
Conclusion
Bali combines culture, nature, beaches, and adventure. It is a flexible destination suitable for relaxation, active travel, and long stays.