Bali, often referred to as the “Island of God”, comes to mind as to where is Bali. Then he gets curious about the island that has unexpectedly become my second home in the past year. I have longed to visit this stunning island since I was a child, and being born in Asia has given me a unique perspective on the culture, allowing me to understand its nuances in a way that many outsiders cannot. Over the years, I have accumulated a lot of knowledge about Bali, and I am excited to share it with you to bridge the cultural gap.
Bali is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. It’s not just the lush landscapes or the pristine beaches that make it so special; it’s the warmth and hospitality of the Balinese people that truly set this island apart. Every time I step foot here, I feel like I’m coming home. This Bali travel guide is designed to help you plan your dream trip, whether you’re curious about the best time to visit, where to stay, or looking for insider tips on top spots like Ubud, Canggu, and Uluwatu. Let’s dive in and discover the magic of Bali together!
Where is Bali?
Bali is a beautiful island in the Indian Ocean, spanning 95 miles (153 kilometers) in width, located just to the west of Java — the world’s most populous island, with a population of around 145 million. Situated at the eastern edge of the Lesser Sunda Islands, Bali is part of a chain that includes Lombok, Sumbawa, Flores, Sumba, Timor, and several other smaller islands. To the east of Bali lies Lombok, which is home to the majestic Mount Rinjani.
In terms of its global location, Bali is about 1,631 miles north of Perth, Australia, and roughly 716 miles east of Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. Just southeast of Bali, you’ll find the smaller islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, nestled between Bali and Lombok.
The Best time to visit Bali
“Bali enjoys warm weather year-round, making it an appealing destination for most of the year. However, like much of Southeast Asia, the island does experience a monsoon season that can impact your plans.”
The heaviest rainfall typically occurs between December and March, which can sometimes disrupt beach days and outdoor activities. If you’re looking to avoid the rain and the crowds, the months just before and after the rainy season—known as the shoulder months—are ideal for a quieter experience on the island.
The driest and busiest period in Bali falls during the summer months of June to August. This is when the island sees the highest number of tourists, especially those escaping the winter months of the Southern Hemisphere. If you prefer a more peaceful atmosphere, be prepared for larger crowds during this peak season.
For a quieter alternative to Bali’s summer bustle, consider heading to the nearby Gili Islands in Lombok, which offer a more relaxed vibe and are just a short boat ride away.
Where are the best beaches in Bali
Bali’s fame, thanks to Eat, Pray, Love and its unique mix of luxury and laid-back bohemian vibes, has drawn travelers from all over the world. The island offers something for everyone, whether you’re an adventurer looking to explore jungles and mountains or a beach lover wanting to soak up the sun all day. Without a doubt, the beaches are one of Bali’s main attractions. From pristine white sands to dramatic black volcanic shores, the beaches invite relaxation and adventure, with crystal-clear waters that draw surfers from every corner of the globe.
Bali’s coastline offers a variety of experiences, from secluded, hidden beaches that require a little effort to reach, to popular stretches where you can enjoy a romantic dinner while watching the sunset or even catch an outdoor movie on the sand. If you’re planning to explore the best of Bali’s beaches, here are 10 must-visit spots that showcase the island’s diverse coastal beauty.
The best beaches in Bali
- Amed Beach
- Balangan Beach
- Balian Beach
- Bias Tugal
- Bingin Beach
- New Kuta Beach
- Geger Beach
- Green Bowl Beach
- Jimbaran Beach
- Karma Kandara Beach
What are the best things to do in Bali
In addition to the typical highlights of shopping, dining, and unwinding—each of which is top-notch on the island—Bali also presents a wealth of unique and exciting activities to explore.
Try Surfing: Bali has been a magnet for surfers since the 1960s. With its sandy coastline and numerous surf schools, Kuta Beach remains one of the best spots in the world for beginners to catch their first waves. For seasoned surfers seeking more of a challenge, Uluwatu and other spots around the island provide world-class breaks and thrilling conditions.
Visit Ubud: Once a quiet haven for hippies, Ubud’s charm has grown far beyond its humble roots, leading to rapid development—much like what’s happening in Pai, Thailand. Despite the changes, the lush rice terraces, cozy boutiques, serene spas, and holistic wellness centers still draw visitors away from the beaches and into the heart of Bali’s captivating interior.
enjoy the beaches: Whether you’re looking for the lively energy of Kuta, with its sun-soaked beaches and vibrant nightlife, or prefer the more refined and luxurious resorts of South Bali, there’s a beach to suit every mood. While Seminyak and Legian offer wide, bustling shorelines, there are also plenty of quieter, less crowded spots tucked away along the island’s coast, offering a peaceful escape from the busy west.
Diving and Snorkeling: Diving in Bali offers incredible value, often at a lower cost than in Thailand, while providing equally, if not more, rewarding experiences. The island is home to a variety of dive shops and numerous exceptional dive sites. Nearby Nusa Penida is famous for frequent visits from majestic manta rays and the unique mola-mola (sunfish). Meanwhile, the black sand beaches of Amed in northern Bali attract divers seeking to explore the historic USAT Liberty wreck, as well as those who enjoy easy and fascinating shore diving.
My top tips and travel hacks for Bali…
Before you set off on your Bali adventure, there are a few things worth knowing. One of the most common is “Bali Belly.” This is a nickname for the stomach upset many visitors experience due to the local water. While you’re advised to avoid drinking tap water, it’s easy to accidentally ingest it—whether in food, drinks, or even ice. Unfortunately, I’ve had it a couple of times myself, and trust me, it’s no fun. Stay cautious, and you’ll be fine!
I’ve got plenty of helpful tips to share with you to make the most of your Bali adventure…
“Make sure to download Gojek—it’s similar to Uber, but for Indonesia. You can use it to book cars or motorbike taxis, and it even gives you an estimated fare between destinations. This helps you get a good sense of what a fair price should be, so you can avoid being overcharged by other taxis.”
“Take the chance to experience a Balinese ceremony at an ashram or retreat—it was one of the most unforgettable moments of my trip. There are various ceremonies to choose from, but the one I attended had a Guru who gave a truly moving speech, accompanied by live musicians. We danced, sang, and the whole experience felt absolutely magical.”
best other destination Maldives
I have to admit, despite its huge popularity, the Maldives were never much in my journey list. I have assumed that it is a collection of frequent precious islands by honeymoon and to be continue…
popular hotels and resort in Bali
- Padma Resort Ubud
- Ramayana suite
- Adiwana bisma
- Swiss Belhotel Tuban
- Rimba By Ayana Bali
- The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali
- Hyatt Regency Bali
Before heading to Bali, it’s a good idea to do some research online and gather as much information as possible. This will help ensure your trip goes smoothly, whether it’s finding a cab, booking a hotel, or discovering new places to explore. If you’re traveling with a partner, keep in mind that your trip may be a bit more expensive, but I highly recommend choosing a good resort to make your stay truly special.
I’ve already shared some top resort and hotel recommendations in a previous post, so you can book with confidence knowing you’re getting a great experience. If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to leave a comment—I’ll do my best to help. Wishing you a wonderful journey and unforgettable memories in Bali!
