There’s never a shortage of fun or interesting things to do in Bali. In fact, that may be your only problem. Bali is one of those places where you could stay a week and still feel like you barely scratched the surface—surf sessions and sunsets, jungle adventures and temple evenings, beach days and island-hopping detours that turn into your favorite memory.

So how do you decide what’s actually worth your time (especially when everyone online claims their “must-do” is the must-do)? This guide narrows the field to Bali’s best experiences—plus simple ways to match activities to your personality type and travel style, so your itinerary feels like your Bali.

The Quick “Choose Your Bali” Cheat Sheet

If you’re short on time, pick a lane:

• Beach + nightlife energy: Canggu / Seminyak + one day in Uluwatu
• Culture + nature + wellness: Ubud + a waterfall day
• Big adventure + jaw-dropping views: Nusa Penida (ideally overnight)
• Ocean + snorkeling + slow living: Nusa Lembongan or the Gili Islands (overnight)

Now let’s dive into the good stuff.

1) Surf (Or at Least Try It Once)

After you land at Denpasar (DPS) and you’re waiting for bags, you’ll notice something funny: a surprising amount of surfboard-shaped luggage rolling around the airport. Bali is a surf magnet—especially along the south and southwest coasts—and you’ll see beginners wading into whitewater next to experienced riders hunting clean reef breaks.

If you’re new to surfing:
Start at a beginner-friendly beach break where the learning curve is kinder and the vibe is supportive. Soft-top boards (foam boards) are your best friend when you’re learning—more stable, more forgiving, and way less intimidating.

Beginner areas to consider:

• Kuta / Legian for classic “learn to surf” energy
• Canggu (Batu Bolong area) for a social, surf-town vibe
• Seminyak for a slightly more relaxed version of the above

Intermediate to advanced surf zones:

• Uluwatu (serious waves + iconic cliffs)
• Bingin / Padang Padang (reef breaks + skilled lineup)
• Keramas (power and performance—great for experienced surfers)
• Serangan (often mentioned by surfers as a quality spot)

Helpful reality check (so you’re not surprised):
Rental and lesson pricing can vary a lot depending on beach, board type, season, and whether you book through a school or directly. Expect everything to be easiest when you keep it simple: rent a soft-top, go with a reputable instructor, and don’t overthink it.

2) Canggu: Beach Days, Social Nights, and “One More Coconut”

Canggu is where Bali’s modern beach lifestyle shines: black-sand sunsets, cafes that take breakfast very seriously, and that easy rhythm of surf → snack → swim → sunset → “should we go out?” (yes).

Do this in Canggu:

• Catch sunset near Batu Bolong (it’s practically a nightly ritual)
• Grab a daytime hangout meal at Old Man’s (a Canggu icon right by the surf break)
• Brunch at Crate Cafe if you want big portions, great coffee, and a fun crowd
• Beach club time at The Lawn when you want a more polished “toes in the sand” afternoon

Want something different at night?

If you like nightlife with a little character, try a speakeasy-style cocktail spot (the “hidden door” theme is alive and well in Bali), or go for a venue that mixes music with a more local, laid-back crowd.

If you’re short on time in Canggu:
Do one perfect sunset + one great meal + one surf session. That’s the Canggu magic formula.

3) Nusa Penida: The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure (Go Overnight if You Can)

Nusa Penida is the “wow” button for a lot of travelers. Dramatic cliffs, bright turquoise water, and viewpoints that look like they were designed for a movie trailer. It’s popular for a reason—but it’s also the kind of place that’s much better when you don’t try to cram the whole island into a single rushed day.

Two important truths about Nusa Penida:

1. There are two sides (west and east), and both are stunning.
2. Driving takes time. If you try to do everything, you’ll spend most of your day in a car instead of actually enjoying what you came for.

If you only have one day: pick one side and do it well.
If you can stay overnight: do one side on day one, the other on day two, and actually breathe a little.

What people love doing here:

• Clifftop viewpoints and beach overlooks (the “jaw-drop” factor is real)
• Snorkeling / diving trips (often for manta rays, turtles, and reefs)

A gentle reminder:
Wildlife encounters are never guaranteed, and responsible operators matter. Choose tours that respect marine life and avoid crowding animals.

4) Island-Hopping: Nusa Lembongan or the Gili Islands (Overnight = Better)

If Bali feels like it’s moving fast (it can), island-hopping is your built-in reset button.

Nusa Lembongan (easygoing, ocean-focused)

Nusa Lembongan is a fantastic alternative to Penida if you want something less intense but still very “wow.” Think calmer island vibes, gorgeous water, and a smoother pace.

The Gili Islands (no cars, lots of sea, very memorable)

The Gilis (off Lombok) are famous for clear water, snorkeling, and a simple, walkable lifestyle. Most visitors rotate between:

• Gili Trawangan (the liveliest, most social)
• Gili Air (a balanced mix—relaxed but not sleepy)
• Gili Meno (quiet, mellow, honeymoon-energy)

Good to know: the Gilis are widely known for having no cars, which is part of their charm. Walking and cycling are typically the easiest ways to get around.

5) Rice Terraces: Tegalalang vs Jatiluwih (Pick Your Style)

If you do one “Bali landscape” experience, make it a rice terrace. It’s one of the most iconic sights on the island—and it’s genuinely calming to stand there and watch the wind ripple through the green.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces (near Ubud)

Tegalalang is famous for a reason: it’s accessible, photogenic, and packed with nearby cafes, viewpoints, and little stops that make it easy to turn into a half-day outing.

Tip: go early. The difference between “serene morning terraces” and “busy midday photo lines” is very real.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces (a bigger, UNESCO-connected experience)

Jatiluwih is larger, more expansive, and often feels more “grand” once you’re out on the walking paths. It’s also closely tied to Bali’s traditional subak irrigation culture recognized by UNESCO—an important piece of why these landscapes exist at all.

If you only do one:

• Choose Tegalalang for convenience + classic photos
• Choose Jatiluwih for scale + longer walks + a more immersive feel

6) Ubud: Monkeys, Temples, Wellness, and Jungle Energy

Ubud is Bali’s cultural and nature hub—lush, lively, and full of little moments: offerings on doorsteps, incense drifting through the air, and the feeling that you’re just a few minutes away from something beautiful.

Ubud must-dos:

• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (yes, it’s touristy; yes, it’s worth it)
• A rice terrace morning (Tegalalang is the classic nearby pick)
• A wellness experience (yoga, sound healing, massage, or a quiet café in the greenery)

Monkey tip (seriously):
Treat them like clever toddlers with hands. Keep valuables secure, don’t bring food into the wrong moment, and avoid eye contact if one seems intense.

Want nightlife in Ubud?

Ubud isn’t a “club every night” place, but it does have a surprisingly fun late-night scene if you want it—often with live music and a friendly crowd.

7) Uluwatu at Sunset: Temples, Cliffs, and the Kecak Dance

Uluwatu is Bali’s dramatic southern edge: cliffside roads, ocean views that go forever, and sunsets that feel like an event.

The Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple

If you see one cultural performance in Bali, the Kecak Dance at Uluwatu is a beautiful choice—especially because the setting is so unforgettable. You’re not just watching a performance; you’re watching a performance with a cliffside sunset behind it like it’s part of the show.

Tips for enjoying it more:

• Arrive early for better seating (sunset shows are popular)
• Keep hats, sunglasses, phones, and snacks secure—Uluwatu monkeys are famously mischievous
• Plan for crowds and go in with a “this is a shared magical moment” mindset

8) Relax by the Beach (Yes, It Counts as an Activity)

The most universally loved Bali pastime: find a spot, order a cold coconut, and let the ocean do the rest.

Beach picks people consistently love:

• Jimbaran (great for seafood dinners right on the sand)
• Nusa Dua (calmer, resort-style beach days)
• Sanur (easygoing and walkable)
• Bingin / Melasti / Pandawa (for a more “wow coastline” feel)

Beach shopping + massages:
You’ll often be offered sarongs, sunglasses, or a beach massage. Bargaining is normal, but keep it kind—these vendors are working long days in the heat.

9) Chase Waterfalls (Pick 2–3 and Make It a Day)

Bali has an incredible number of waterfalls, and the best ones feel like a mini-adventure—stairs, jungle paths, mist on your skin, and that “we actually did it” feeling when you arrive.

Here are four strong options, each with a different vibe:

Sekumpul Waterfall (epic and adventurous)

Often considered one of Bali’s most spectacular waterfall areas. Expect a bit of a trek and bring good shoes—this one is more “adventure day” than “quick photo stop.”

Tukad Cepung (the cave waterfall with light beams)

This is the famous “sun rays in the canyon” waterfall. Timing matters: the light-beam effect tends to show best later in the morning when the sun angle is right.

Tibumana (calm, pretty, and usually less chaotic)

A great choice for a more peaceful waterfall visit—still beautiful, often more relaxed.

Kanto Lampo (cascading rock wall, fun photos)

A popular waterfall that cascades over stepped rocks. It’s more accessible and makes a great stop if you want beauty without a massive hike.

Waterfall etiquette:
Be mindful of slippery rocks, don’t leave trash (ever), and if a spot is crowded, consider moving along to the next waterfall rather than spending your whole visit waiting for one photo.

10) Dolphin Watching (Do It Responsibly)

Dolphin-watching is commonly done in North Bali (Lovina area), often around sunrise. If this is on your list, try to choose operators who don’t chase or crowd dolphins, and be okay with a less “perfect” encounter if it means a more respectful one.

Related Questions:

What are the best things to do in Ubud?

Top Ubud picks include:

• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
• Tegalalang Rice Terraces (early morning)
• A day trip to larger terrace landscapes (like Jatiluwih)
• Yoga and wellness experiences (classes, sound healing, spa time)
• A fun night out with live music if you want it

What are the best things to do in Canggu?

Top Canggu picks include:

There’s never a shortage of fun or interesting things to do in Bali. In fact, that may be your only problem. Bali is one of those places where you could stay a week and still feel like you barely scratched the surface—surf sessions and sunsets, jungle adventures and temple evenings, beach days and island-hopping detours that turn into your favorite memory.

So how do you decide what’s actually worth your time (especially when everyone online claims their “must-do” is the must-do)? This guide narrows the field to Bali’s best experiences—plus simple ways to match activities to your personality type and travel style, so your itinerary feels like your Bali.

The Quick “Choose Your Bali” Cheat Sheet

If you’re short on time, pick a lane:

• Beach + nightlife energy: Canggu / Seminyak + one day in Uluwatu
• Culture + nature + wellness: Ubud + a waterfall day
• Big adventure + jaw-dropping views: Nusa Penida (ideally overnight)
• Ocean + snorkeling + slow living: Nusa Lembongan or the Gili Islands (overnight)

Now let’s dive into the good stuff.

1) Surf (Or at Least Try It Once)

After you land at Denpasar (DPS) and you’re waiting for bags, you’ll notice something funny: a surprising amount of surfboard-shaped luggage rolling around the airport. Bali is a surf magnet—especially along the south and southwest coasts—and you’ll see beginners wading into whitewater next to experienced riders hunting clean reef breaks.

If you’re new to surfing:
Start at a beginner-friendly beach break where the learning curve is kinder and the vibe is supportive. Soft-top boards (foam boards) are your best friend when you’re learning—more stable, more forgiving, and way less intimidating.

Beginner areas to consider:

• Kuta / Legian for classic “learn to surf” energy
• Canggu (Batu Bolong area) for a social, surf-town vibe
• Seminyak for a slightly more relaxed version of the above

Intermediate to advanced surf zones:

• Uluwatu (serious waves + iconic cliffs)
• Bingin / Padang Padang (reef breaks + skilled lineup)
• Keramas (power and performance—great for experienced surfers)
• Serangan (often mentioned by surfers as a quality spot)

Helpful reality check (so you’re not surprised):
Rental and lesson pricing can vary a lot depending on beach, board type, season, and whether you book through a school or directly. Expect everything to be easiest when you keep it simple: rent a soft-top, go with a reputable instructor, and don’t overthink it.

2) Canggu: Beach Days, Social Nights, and “One More Coconut”

Canggu is where Bali’s modern beach lifestyle shines: black-sand sunsets, cafes that take breakfast very seriously, and that easy rhythm of surf → snack → swim → sunset → “should we go out?” (yes).

Do this in Canggu:

• Catch sunset near Batu Bolong (it’s practically a nightly ritual)
• Grab a daytime hangout meal at Old Man’s (a Canggu icon right by the surf break)
• Brunch at Crate Cafe if you want big portions, great coffee, and a fun crowd
• Beach club time at The Lawn when you want a more polished “toes in the sand” afternoon

Want something different at night?

If you like nightlife with a little character, try a speakeasy-style cocktail spot (the “hidden door” theme is alive and well in Bali), or go for a venue that mixes music with a more local, laid-back crowd.

If you’re short on time in Canggu:
Do one perfect sunset + one great meal + one surf session. That’s the Canggu magic formula.

3) Nusa Penida: The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure (Go Overnight if You Can)

Nusa Penida is the “wow” button for a lot of travelers. Dramatic cliffs, bright turquoise water, and viewpoints that look like they were designed for a movie trailer. It’s popular for a reason—but it’s also the kind of place that’s much better when you don’t try to cram the whole island into a single rushed day.

Two important truths about Nusa Penida:

1. There are two sides (west and east), and both are stunning.
2. Driving takes time. If you try to do everything, you’ll spend most of your day in a car instead of actually enjoying what you came for.

If you only have one day: pick one side and do it well.
If you can stay overnight: do one side on day one, the other on day two, and actually breathe a little.

What people love doing here:

• Clifftop viewpoints and beach overlooks (the “jaw-drop” factor is real)
• Snorkeling / diving trips (often for manta rays, turtles, and reefs)

A gentle reminder:
Wildlife encounters are never guaranteed, and responsible operators matter. Choose tours that respect marine life and avoid crowding animals.

4) Island-Hopping: Nusa Lembongan or the Gili Islands (Overnight = Better)

If Bali feels like it’s moving fast (it can), island-hopping is your built-in reset button.

Nusa Lembongan (easygoing, ocean-focused)

Nusa Lembongan is a fantastic alternative to Penida if you want something less intense but still very “wow.” Think calmer island vibes, gorgeous water, and a smoother pace.

The Gili Islands (no cars, lots of sea, very memorable)

The Gilis (off Lombok) are famous for clear water, snorkeling, and a simple, walkable lifestyle. Most visitors rotate between:

• Gili Trawangan (the liveliest, most social)
• Gili Air (a balanced mix—relaxed but not sleepy)
• Gili Meno (quiet, mellow, honeymoon-energy)

Good to know: the Gilis are widely known for having no cars, which is part of their charm. Walking and cycling are typically the easiest ways to get around.

5) Rice Terraces: Tegalalang vs Jatiluwih (Pick Your Style)

If you do one “Bali landscape” experience, make it a rice terrace. It’s one of the most iconic sights on the island—and it’s genuinely calming to stand there and watch the wind ripple through the green.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces (near Ubud)

Tegalalang is famous for a reason: it’s accessible, photogenic, and packed with nearby cafes, viewpoints, and little stops that make it easy to turn into a half-day outing.

Tip: go early. The difference between “serene morning terraces” and “busy midday photo lines” is very real.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces (a bigger, UNESCO-connected experience)

Jatiluwih is larger, more expansive, and often feels more “grand” once you’re out on the walking paths. It’s also closely tied to Bali’s traditional subak irrigation culture recognized by UNESCO—an important piece of why these landscapes exist at all.

If you only do one:

• Choose Tegalalang for convenience + classic photos
• Choose Jatiluwih for scale + longer walks + a more immersive feel

6) Ubud: Monkeys, Temples, Wellness, and Jungle Energy

Ubud is Bali’s cultural and nature hub—lush, lively, and full of little moments: offerings on doorsteps, incense drifting through the air, and the feeling that you’re just a few minutes away from something beautiful.

Ubud must-dos:

• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (yes, it’s touristy; yes, it’s worth it)
• A rice terrace morning (Tegalalang is the classic nearby pick)
• A wellness experience (yoga, sound healing, massage, or a quiet café in the greenery)

Monkey tip (seriously):
Treat them like clever toddlers with hands. Keep valuables secure, don’t bring food into the wrong moment, and avoid eye contact if one seems intense.

Want nightlife in Ubud?

Ubud isn’t a “club every night” place, but it does have a surprisingly fun late-night scene if you want it—often with live music and a friendly crowd.

7) Uluwatu at Sunset: Temples, Cliffs, and the Kecak Dance

Uluwatu is Bali’s dramatic southern edge: cliffside roads, ocean views that go forever, and sunsets that feel like an event.

The Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple

If you see one cultural performance in Bali, the Kecak Dance at Uluwatu is a beautiful choice—especially because the setting is so unforgettable. You’re not just watching a performance; you’re watching a performance with a cliffside sunset behind it like it’s part of the show.

Tips for enjoying it more:

• Arrive early for better seating (sunset shows are popular)
• Keep hats, sunglasses, phones, and snacks secure—Uluwatu monkeys are famously mischievous
• Plan for crowds and go in with a “this is a shared magical moment” mindset

8) Relax by the Beach (Yes, It Counts as an Activity)

The most universally loved Bali pastime: find a spot, order a cold coconut, and let the ocean do the rest.

Beach picks people consistently love:

• Jimbaran (great for seafood dinners right on the sand)
• Nusa Dua (calmer, resort-style beach days)
• Sanur (easygoing and walkable)
• Bingin / Melasti / Pandawa (for a more “wow coastline” feel)

Beach shopping + massages:
You’ll often be offered sarongs, sunglasses, or a beach massage. Bargaining is normal, but keep it kind—these vendors are working long days in the heat.

9) Chase Waterfalls (Pick 2–3 and Make It a Day)

Bali has an incredible number of waterfalls, and the best ones feel like a mini-adventure—stairs, jungle paths, mist on your skin, and that “we actually did it” feeling when you arrive.

Here are four strong options, each with a different vibe:

Sekumpul Waterfall (epic and adventurous)

Often considered one of Bali’s most spectacular waterfall areas. Expect a bit of a trek and bring good shoes—this one is more “adventure day” than “quick photo stop.”

Tukad Cepung (the cave waterfall with light beams)

This is the famous “sun rays in the canyon” waterfall. Timing matters: the light-beam effect tends to show best later in the morning when the sun angle is right.

Tibumana (calm, pretty, and usually less chaotic)

A great choice for a more peaceful waterfall visit—still beautiful, often more relaxed.

Kanto Lampo (cascading rock wall, fun photos)

A popular waterfall that cascades over stepped rocks. It’s more accessible and makes a great stop if you want beauty without a massive hike.

Waterfall etiquette:
Be mindful of slippery rocks, don’t leave trash (ever), and if a spot is crowded, consider moving along to the next waterfall rather than spending your whole visit waiting for one photo.

10) Dolphin Watching (Do It Responsibly)

Dolphin-watching is commonly done in North Bali (Lovina area), often around sunrise. If this is on your list, try to choose operators who don’t chase or crowd dolphins, and be okay with a less “perfect” encounter if it means a more respectful one.

Related Questions

What are the best things to do in Ubud?

Top Ubud picks include:

• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
• Tegalalang Rice Terraces (early morning)
• A day trip to larger terrace landscapes (like Jatiluwih)
• Yoga and wellness experiences (classes, sound healing, spa time)
• A fun night out with live music if you want it

What are the best things to do in Canggu?

Top Canggu picks include:

• Surfing (especially around Batu Bolong for beginners)
• Sunset on the beach (it’s a nightly tradition)
• Old Man’s for the classic Canggu hangout vibe
• Crate Cafe for brunch
• The Lawn for a beach club afternoon
• A night out at a speakeasy-style cocktail spot or a live-music venue

Helpful Links:

• Old Man’s (Canggu) Old Man’s
• Crate Cafe (Canggu) lifescrate.com
• Uluwatu Kecak Dance (Uluwatu Temple) Uluwatu Temple
• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (Ubud) monkeyforestubud.com
• No Más Bar (Ubud) No Más Bar Ubud
• CP Lounge (Ubud) Cp Lounge
• Ubud Yoga Centre ubudyogacentre.com
• Turtle Conservation and Education Centre (Serangan, Bali) Merusaka Nusa Dua