Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Bali has long been one of the most visited places in the world, and that has not changed. In 2026, TripAdvisor named it the number one destination in its Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best, which is proof that there are still so many exciting things to do in Bali that keep travelers coming back year after year.
Known as the "Island of the Gods," Bali offers a mix of nature, culture, and adventure that is hard to find anywhere else. Whether you are looking for a quiet beach, a sacred temple, or a challenge like hiking a volcano, this small island has it all packed into one place worth exploring.
From rice terraces to waterfall trails, from street food to traditional dance shows, there is no shortage of things to do in Bali for every kind of traveler. Here are 13 of the best activities to put on your list before you go.
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1. Beach Hopping
There are many beautiful beaches in Bali, and each one has its own feel. Popular spots like Kuta, Seminyak, and Jimbaran are great starting points, especially if you are new to the island. The Bukit Peninsula is also worth exploring, with beaches like Padang Padang, Balangan, and Melasti all close to each other. If you prefer something different, the black sand beaches on the east coast, such as Keramas and Purnama, are also worth a visit.
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2. Enjoy the Beauty of Jatiluwih Rice Terrace
If you want to see rice fields up close, Jatiluwih is one of the best places to go. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the green terraces stretch across the hills as far as you can see. Walking through the paths between the fields is a peaceful experience, and the views from the top are easy to enjoy at your own pace.
3. Go Surfing
With over 60 surf spots around the island, Bali is a well-known destination for surfing. If you are a beginner, Kuta Beach is a good place to start because the waves are gentle and the sandy bottom is safe. For those with more experience, spots like Uluwatu and Canggu offer stronger waves and a more exciting challenge in warm, clear water.
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4. Hike Mount Batur
Located in the Kintamani region, Mount Batur is an active volcano and one of the most popular hikes on the island. Most people start the climb before sunrise so they can watch the sky change color from the top. After the hike, soaking in the natural hot springs near Lake Batur is a perfect way to rest your legs before heading back.
5. Visit the Famous Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
Sitting on the edge of Lake Beratan, this Hindu temple is one of the most photographed places in Bali. On calm mornings, its reflection appears clearly on the water, making it a great spot for photos. There is also a small park and a few other temple structures within the same area, so there is plenty to see once you arrive.
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6. Make a Stop at Tirta Empul
Built in 962 AD, Tirta Empul is a sacred temple in Tampaksiring where a natural holy spring flows into stone bathing pools. The name means "holy water spring," and many Balinese Hindus come here to perform purification rituals, or Melukat. You can also take part in the experience if you wish, as the ritual is open to respectful visitors of all backgrounds.
7. Visit Nusa Penida Island
A short ferry ride from Bali, Nusa Penida is known for its dramatic cliffs and clear blue water. Kelingking Beach, with its T-Rex-shaped cliff, is one of the most iconic views in the area. You can also snorkel or dive at Crystal Bay, where the water is calm and the marine life is easy to spot even without much diving experience.
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8. Go to the Sacred Monkey Forest
Located in the heart of Ubud, this sanctuary is home to over 700 long-tailed macaque monkeys living among ancient temples that date back to the 14th century. The setting is shaded and green, and walking through the forest is a calm experience. Just be careful with your belongings, as the monkeys are known to grab bags, hats, and glasses without warning.
9. Hunting for Waterfalls
There are many waterfalls hidden across Bali's jungle and hillside areas. Tegenungan is easy to reach and great for a swim, while Sekumpul, which is the tallest waterfall on the island, requires a longer hike but rewards you with a stunning view. If you enjoy walking through nature and do not mind getting wet, waterfall hunting is a fun way to spend a day.
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10. Sunset at Tanah Lot
Perched on a rocky island just off the coast, Tanah Lot is one of Bali's most famous sea temples. The best time to go is in the late afternoon, when the sun starts to set behind the temple and the sky turns orange and red. It is a popular spot, so arriving a bit early will help you find a good place to stand and take it all in.
11. Try Local Balinese Cuisine
Balinese food uses a mix of spices, fresh herbs, and coconut that gives it a distinct flavor. Some dishes worth trying are babi guling (slow-roasted pork), nasi campur (rice with various side dishes), and satay with peanut sauce. If you want to learn how to cook these dishes yourself, there are many local cooking classes that start with a visit to a traditional market.
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12. Watch Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple
Every evening near sunset, Uluwatu Temple hosts a Kecak fire dance performance on a cliffside stage above the Indian Ocean. The dance is based on an old Hindu story and is performed by a large group of men chanting in rhythm. The combination of the dramatic story, the fire, and the ocean view in the background makes it a memorable experience to watch.
13. Explore the Ubud Art Market
For those who enjoy local crafts and souvenirs, the Ubud Art Market is one of the best places to browse in Bali. It sells handmade goods like woven bags, wood carvings, batik fabric, and traditional paintings. Prices are usually open to bargaining, and it is a good opportunity to take home something made by local artisans rather than a mass-produced product.
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