With so many ways to experience the Island of Gods, choosing the right things to do in Bali can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first visit. From sunrise hikes and waterfalls to cultural landmarks, beachside sunsets, and island escapes, Bali offers plenty of experiences beyond simply lounging on the beach.
So, whether you are visiting for the culture, nature, ocean views, or simply a change of scenery, Bob has rounded up 10 experiences to add to your Bali itinerary. Check this out!
Top Things to Do in Bali You Must Try
Without a doubt, Bali always has something to offer every type of traveler, from walks at sunrise and picturesque rice terraces to temple visits and relaxing beach days. To make the most of your trip, here are ten activities to add to your Bali itinerary.
Catch the Sunrise from Mount Batur
Let’s be real: waking up at 2 a.m. on vacation sounds like a crime. But trust Bob, the sunrise from the top of Mount Batur can make the early start worth it.
This popular Bali sunrise hike takes you into the island’s highlands, where you can watch the scenery slowly illuminate from above. Since the trek is physically demanding, so make sure you’re prepared for an early start and uneven route.
Also, trekking conditions can change anytime, so always check with your guide or local operator and follow their recommendations for the day before you go.
Walk Through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Looking for a way to enjoy Bali’s landscapes at a slower pace? Take a stroll through the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces, where layered green fields and traditional agricultural scenery create one of the island’s most recognizable views.
The rice terraces are also a good reminder that Bali’s appeal goes beyond its beaches. Visit earlier in the day if you want to explore more comfortably and take in the scenery before the heat becomes too intense.
Also read: 7 Unique Things to Do in Ubud for a Memorable Adventure
Chase Waterfalls at Sekumpul
One of the best things to do in Bali for nature lovers is exploring the island’s waterfalls. Located in North Bali, Sekumpul is surrounded by lush greenery and a dramatic landscape that makes the journey part of the experience.
Before you go, make sure to wear comfortable footwear because the route will likely involve stairs and uneven paths. If you plan to get close to the water, pack an extra set of clothes, and always check local conditions before you go.
If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Bali’s much popular beach attractions, a waterfall adventure like Sekumpul can add a refreshing change of pace to your itinerary.
Explore Nusa Penida’s Underwater World
Looking for ocean adventures? Nusa Penida is a popular option for snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to explore reefs and encounter marine life.
The island's popular marine locations include Manta Point and Crystal Bay, though sightings are never guarantyd as sea conditions are subject to change. If you want to dive or snorkel, pick a skilled local operator and keep an eye on the weather and current conditions.
Nusa Penida also work well for those who want to combine outdoor activities with striking coastal beauty, making it more than just a short island day trip.
Watch the Sunset at Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is one of the best things in Bali that is worth adding to your itinerary. That’s because you can get a mix of attractions, including Balinese culture, dramatic coastal scenery, and sunset views. The temple sits on a cliff overlooking the ocean and remains an important place of worship.
You can visit earlier for the scenery or plan your visit around sunset, when the surrounding cliffs take on a warm golden glow. The area is also associated with the Kecak dance, so check the current performance schedule if you want to include it in your visit.
Remember that Uluwatu Temple is a religious site, so make sure to dress respectfully and follow the rules provided at the entrance. Keep your belongings secure around the monkeys, too.
Chill at a Canggu Beach Club
Canggu is one of Bali’s go-to spots for beachside relaxation, sunset views, and a lively café and beach club scene. Spend the afternoon lounging by the pool, enjoying a meal or drink, or simply taking in the ocean views before sunset.
The area offers different beach club experiences, from laid-back venues with bohemian décor to larger clubs with pools, DJs, and a more energetic atmosphere. This makes it easy to find a spot that matches your travel style, whether you want a relaxing afternoon or a livelier evening.
Many beach clubs also have their own entry policies, minimum spending requirements, or booking arrangements, so check the venue’s latest information before visiting. If you’re mainly after the scenery, you can also enjoy Canggu’s public beaches and watch the sunset without spending the day at a beach club.
Also read: Bali Luxury Escapes: Bob’s Guide to the Island’s Most Indulgent Spots
Meet the Monkeys at Ubud Monkey Forest
In the heart of Ubud lies the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where visitors can walk among lush greenery, temple structures, and free-roaming long-tailed macaques. It’s also a chance to experience another side of Ubud, where nature and spirituality come together.
Because the monkeys are wild animals, keep your belongings secure and follow the sanctuary’s visitor guidelines. Beyond the wildlife, take time to appreciate the forest’s temples and tranquil surroundings.
Feast on Seafood at Jimbaran
Is there anything more Bali than digging your toes into the sand, sipping a cold drink, and watching the sunset with a plate of grilled seafood in front of you? We think not!
Jimbaran Bay is famous for its beachfront seafood dining, where you can choose from fresh catches such as snapper, prawns, clams, squid, and crab before settling in for a meal by the sea. Many restaurants serve the seafood grilled and paired with rice, sambal, and other local accompaniments.
The real highlight, though, is the setting. As the sun goes down, the beachfront restaurants come alive with the aroma of grilled seafood, ocean views, and a relaxed dining atmosphere. It’s an easy choice if you want to combine a Bali sunset with a memorable local food experience.
Discover Lake Batur and Trunyan Village
Bali’s appeal isn’t limited to beaches and nightlife. Its mountain landscapes and traditional villages offer an interesting way to experience the island’s history and culture.
A visit to Lake Batur and Trunyan Village can be combined with a Kintamani-area itinerary, giving you the chance to experience the highlands and learn about the traditions of the Bali Aga community. Because Trunyan is a living cultural community, always approach the village and its customs respectfully and follow local guidance when visiting.
It’s an experience for those who want to look beyond Bali’s most familiar destinations and learn more about the island’s cultural diversity.
Try Paragliding Above Pandawa Beach
Paragliding at Pandawa Beach provides a unique view of Bali's southern coastline for tourists seeking an exhilarating addition to their itinerary. From above, you can take in the cliffs, beaches, and ocean surrounding the Bukit Peninsula.
If you’re trying tandem paragliding for the first time, book through a reputable operator and make sure the activity is running under suitable weather conditions. Follow the pilot’s safety instructions and check the operator’s requirements before booking.
It’s a memorable way to experience Bali’s coastline while adding a little adventure to a trip otherwise filled with beaches and sightseeing.
Also read: Bali Travel Guide: Things to Do, What to Eat, and Daily Cost
After Enjoying All The Things to Do In Bali, Recharge Your Energy at Bobocabin!
Planning a nature-focused Bali getaway? Consider adding a stay at Bobocabin to your itinerary. With locations in Ubud and Kintamani, it offers a comfortable base for travelers who want to slow down after a day of exploring Bali’s natural surroundings.
Despite being immersed in nature, the cabins provide an impressive level of modern comfort and high-tech convenience. Each cabin is equipped with a smart technology system that allows you to control the Mood Lamp, lock the doors, and adjust the Smart Window directly from your smartphone.
To complete your stay, you also have access to communal bonfire areas and barbecue equipment, making it easy to grill your own dinner and gather around the fire pit under the stars.
Ready to plan your Bali escape? Explore more travel inspiration from Bobobox, then download the Bobobox app to book your Bobocabin stay to start your Bali adventure!
Header image by: Paolo Nicolello via Unsplash
