Pampering, shopping, attractions and activities – let us be your travel guide as we list the most unique things to do in Bali!
One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Bali is a tropical paradise that offers a little something for everyone.
Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, relaxation, or romance, there are so many incredible experiences crammed into this small yet beautiful island. If you’re looking for some of the most exciting events and attractions that will make your trip unforgettable, we’ve come up with the 10 best and most unique things to do in Bali in 2023 that you don’t want to miss.
Looking to get wet and wild in Bali? Then make sure to visit Waterbom Bali, one of the largest water parks in the world. Located in the town of Kuta near Denpasar, Waterbom is jam-packed full of 22 slides and rides for all ages and preferences, meaning there’s something for everyone. So whether you’re after a high-octane vertical drop courtesy of the Smashdown 2.0, or you’re after a relaxing lazy river cruise, Waterbom always makes sure that you’re having fun… and getting wet! The best thing to do in Bali with kids, be sure to slide on down to Waterbom Bali!
Photographed by Adi Dharmawan. Image via Shutterstock.Slide around at Waterbom Bali
Photographed by Andrew Keymaster. Image via Unsplash.
Scratch that primate itch at Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Monkeys are just so fascinating, aren’t they? While nature documentaries have shown us the cheeky side, what if we said you could get right up to our simian cousins? That’s the unique experience you can expect at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Home to over 1,200 monkeys, the sanctuary is one of the most unique and special experiences you can have in Bali. Interact with long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat in the peaceful ambience of Bali’s lush forests. As you walk alongside them, you can also check out all the elaborate temples in the area.
Photographed by Jason Cooper. Image via Unsplash.
Explore the Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Vast open fields, perfectly shaped to the hills it calls home, the Tegalaland Rice Terrace will give you the perfect taste of the stunning rural countryside of Bali. A 20-minute drive from Ubud, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace features a series of picturesque cascading rice fields. So stunning that it has become a UNESCO World Heritage site! Sunrise and sunset are considered the perfect time to see these green hills, with March, August, and September being some of the best months to see this marvellous plantation, filled with unique Balinese culture and history!
Photographed by Frankie Spontelli. Image via Unsplash.
Talk on the wild side at Mount Batur
Looking for an exciting hike in Bali? Then Mount Batur will most certainly give you a workout. An active volcano and the second-highest peak in Bali means that reaching the top of this difficult hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the entire island unlike anywhere else in Bali. Make sure to start your two hour journey before dawn to see the glorious sunrise from this misty mountain. So tie up your laces for one of the most best nature experiences you can have in Bali!
Photographed by zjuzjaka. Image via Shutterstock.
Bask in a day spa
Bali truly is the perfect holiday destination for those wanting a little R&R. So make this most of the tropical paradise with a trip to one of the island’s many professional day spas. Zahra and Karsa Spas in Nusa Dua and Kelusa respectively offer an all-in-one wellness experience, letting the stress slowly roll off you like a raindrop in the forest. Whether you’re after a deep tissue, full body, or even intuitive heart massage, there’s a diving package for everyone to enjoy! The best thing to do in Bali for couples!
Photographed by kasakphoto. Image via Shutterstock.
Go Waterfall Chasing
Despite what TLC may say, you should definitely go chasing waterfalls in Bali! If you’re after the biggest and best waterfall in Bali, then Sekumpul and GitGit Waterfall is some of the most scenic waterfalls you can visit, both encased in a stunning jungle and have plenty of visitors year-round. Instead, if you’re after something a little more private, there are plenty of hidden gems hidden around Bali including the Blahmantung Waterfall. So get your maps out and start dipping into the many waterfalls of Bali!
Photographed by Setiono Joko Purwanto. Image via Shutterstock.
Explore Seminyak
A melting pit of lavish accommodation and high-end restaurants, Seminyak has become a must-visit for anyone wanting to get a little luxury out of Bali. Known as the hippest beach town in Bali, Seminyak delights visitors with class and sophistication, with plenty of culinary options and a great shopping experience. In particular, the nightlife in Seminyak is a stand-out for any party goers looking to experience a clubbing mecca, with exciting clubs lining the main street most nights in peak season.
Photographed by jackmazur. Image via Unsplash.
Take an elephant bath at Bali Zoo
While many zoos let you see the see the exotic and cuddly animals, few let you interact and get close to nature like you can at Bali Zoo. Whether it be breakfast with orangutans or feeding a family of meerkats, Bali Zoo lets you learn more about over 500 rare and exotic animals in a lush, tropical enclosure designed to get you as close as possible. The highlight is the Elephant Mud Fun, which lets you slush around with in a natural pool with the gentle giants, letting them roll around as they cool off from the harsh tropical weather. So learn more about natures many delights at the Bali Zoo!
Photographed by Alfiano Sutianto. Image via Unsplash.
Sunbake on Diamond Beach
While Bali has many fabulous beaches, few can compare to the shimmering beauty of Diamond Beach. This is no ‘diamond-in-the-rough’, but a white-sand and silky blue oasis that you can bask in for hours on end. A nearby viewpoint also lets you gaze into the vast Pacific Ocean that you can’t find anywhere else on Bali!
Photographed by Guillaume Marques. Image via Unsplash.
Visit a traditional temple
If you’re after something a great cultural experience, then make sure to visit a traditional temple. With a long Hindu and Buddhist history, Bali houses dozens of ancient Hindu temples that make you feel connected with the island’s past. Pura Tanah Lot, Ulun Danu Beratan, and Tirta Empul Temple are the definite highlights, with intricate architecture and a forest setting makes you feel like you’ve entered a whole new world. One of the best sightseeing experiences in Bali, visit one of the many traditional temples for a taste of architecture and history!
If Indonesia is in mind, check out our Ultimate Travel Guide Itinerary to Seminyak, Bali. Or, if you’re longing for an island escape, we’ve curated a list of the Top 5 Things to Do in Lombok, Indonesia.
Feature image: Photographed by Nick Fewings. Image via Unsplash.
