No matter how you slice it, Bali is a magical place to be no matter who you are and what your travel style. There really is something for everyone and that’s why it’s one of those places I’d love to go back to. From great weather, laid back beaches, awesome surf, awe-inspiring rice paddies, luxury resorts and food to die for, I really could go on and on but if I were to pick 5 things a first-timer needs to go see, it’d be these places.
Read more about Bali
- 5 day Bali itinerary
- What you need to pack for a trip to Indonesia
- Best things to do in Ubud
- Indonesia beyond Bali
How to get the best deals in travel
- Hottest deals – Bookmark the travel deals page.
- Car rentals – stop getting ripped off and learn about car rental coupon codes.
- Hotels – Use corporate codes or get Genius 2 tier with Booking.
- Flights – Have you ever heard of the “Everywhere” feature?
- Insurance – Make sure you’re covered and learn more about where to buy the best travel insurance
Jatiluwih
One of the most memorable experiences of my trip to Bali was my visit to the region of Jatiluwih. Unfolding from the mountain, the beautiful and dramatic rice terraces cascade as far as the eye can see. The best part about here is that you won’t have to deal with large groups of tourists as it is relatively off the beaten path. If you’re lucky as we were with our driver in Bali, you’ll be able to stop by one of these paddies to meet local farmers and see what’s involved in harvesting rice.
Uluwatu
On the southwestern tip of Bali is one of the premiere spots to surf in the world. Even if you don’t surf though, there are tons of reasons to come here.
For one, right at cliff’s edge is Uluwatu Temple and from here you get the most gorgeous views of the dramatic cliffs that line the coast and the shimmering Indian Ocean in the backdrop.
Stay here into the night and you’ll be treated to Kecak and Fire Dance traditional show that is not to be missed.
Ubud
Surrounded by rainforests, Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. If you want to get to know the real Bali, then you need to make sure you build in some time in your itinerary to Bali’s most iconic places.
Now the area of Ubud is quite expansive but a few key places you’ll want to make sure you go to are Ganung Kawi with its rock cut shrines and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary where you’ll find mischievous macaque monkeys playing all over.
Alongside some of these highlights, Ubud was memorable to me for its food, the local markets and of course the famous Barong Dance.
Mount Batur
You didn’t think I could go through this list without putting in something adventurous in here right? I highly recommend doing the sunrise hike up Mount Batur volcano.
The views from the top are just stunning especially when you’re above the clouds and the sun starts to peek through and starts stretching its rays.
The best part about it all is that it’s not like our Inca Trail trek which took days to do. This can be done by anyone of modest fitness level in 2 hours.
Tanah Lot
During our trip to Bali, this was one of our favourite moments, not only for the out of this world photography I was able to do here but being able to enjoy the moment and take in the entire sunset from beginning to end.
What’s fascinating to watch progress as the sun goes down is the rising of the tide. Eventually the water ends up covering all the ground surrounding the temple.
So there you have it, my top picks for favourite spots in Bali. Remember, the best way to see Bali is to get a private driver to take you around or rent a scooter if you’re confident in your navigation abilities. Have fun out there!
Activities To Check Out in Bali
What you should read next
Travel Resources For Your Next Trip
If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.
Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.
Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.
Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.
Rideshare: For new Lyft users, use code WILLIAM4825 to get 50% off your first 2 rides (max $10 USD per ride). Offer valid for 14 days after you take your first ride. For new Uber users, use code psuqbjg4d7rn for the same offer except it’s valid for 30 days.
Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.
eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.
- AmigoSIM – Use GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 25% off. Code is re-useable.
- Gigsky – Use TANG149 to get $3 USD when you sign up, then use code GOINGAWESOME to save 20% on all eSIM orders.
- KnowRoaming – Use code GAP10 to save 10%.
- AloSIM – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 15%.
- Airalo – Use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase.
- Ubigi – AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.
Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.
Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.
Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).
Tours and Activities: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.
Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.
- HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks. By booking through our link to get a 15% discount (from June 19-29)!
- RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
- SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
- Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
- InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.
If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.
I absolutely loved all the insights u gave about bali. U r awesome as a travel blogger. keep up the good work.
Thanks!! I hope you found it helpful. If you have any questions just let me know :)
Awesome recommendations! I am planning to go Thailand one day, these places will definitely be in my list!
Love all your 5 Top Must See in Bali, and for me Ubud is no 1 on the list, definitely. Fall in love too much with this Bali’s cultural heart. The rice paddies, the market, the royal palace, the organic food, the monkeys…:) And love the fact that even amongst lush green paddy fields and forests, there are still places you can still call slices of heaven…Love the post, Will!
We are off to Bali, Lombok and Gili Islands in September. Cannot wait!! Make a note of your recommendations! Thanks!
Awesome post! I’m heading to Bali in a few weeks time and can’t wait to check it out. These are some great suggestions for things to see. Thanks for the tips!
Thanks Jenn! Oh I am so envious. You’re going to have a great time!