25 must things to do in Bali

July 16, 2026

Where to go in Bali? Plan a visit to famous Bali tourist destinations to enjoy your trip to this paradise island. Let’s check out our suggested 25 must things to do in Bali!

Bali boasts a diverse combination of turquoise beaches, tropical forests, and ancient temples. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful space to relax or an adventurous exploration of nature, this island can meet your needs. The list of 25 outstanding Bali tourist destinations below will help you easily filter and design a complete itinerary to explore this island.

Tanah Lot Temple – A Sacred Symbol in the Middle of the Sea

Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s seven most sacred sea temples, located on a large rock about 300 meters from the Tabanan coast. Built in the 16th century by the monk Dang Hyang Nirartha, this temple worships the sea gods to protect the island from evil spirits. The most distinctive feature of Tanah Lot is its changing tidal range.

Tanah Lot Sunset Tour

When the tide rises, the temple is completely isolated in the middle of the ocean. When the tide recedes, a natural stone pathway appears, allowing you to walk right up to the temple’s base to touch the sacred freshwater flowing from the cave below and see the sea snakes that locals believe are guardian spirits of the place.

Must things to do in Bali: Campuhan Ridge Stone Path – A Love Song Amidst the Grassy Hills

Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s seven most sacred sea temples, located on a large rock about 300 meters off the coast of Tabanan. Built in the 16th century by the monk Dang Hyang Nirartha, this temple worships the sea gods to protect the island from evil spirits.

The most distinctive feature of Tanah Lot is its changing tidal range. When the tide rises, the temple is completely isolated in the middle of the ocean. When the tide recedes, a natural stone pathway will appear, allowing you to walk right up to the temple’s base to touch the sacred freshwater flowing from the cave below and see the sea snakes that locals believe are guardian spirits of the place.

Jimbaran Beach – Romantic Seafood Dinner on the Sand

Watching the Sunset at Jimbaran Beach | must things to do in Bali

Campuhan Ridge Walk is a famous paved walking path located right in the center of Ubud, stretching about 2km along a lush green ridge. This path runs between two river valleys, offering unobstructed views of the reed-covered hills and coconut groves characteristic of central Bali.

Seafood Dinner at Baruna Bali Resto in Jimbaran Bali

Because the entire route is completely outdoors and lacks the shade of large trees, the ideal time to visit is from 5:30 to 7:00 AM to watch the sunrise and avoid the oppressive heat. This is an ideal spot for those who want to jog, stroll in the fresh air, or take photos of the natural landscape.

Ulun Danu Beratan Water Temple – An Ethereal Beauty by Lake Bratan

Bali, the land of Hindu temples. | must things to do in Bali

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is located by Lake Beratan, in the Bedugul highlands at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters above sea level. Thanks to this topography, the area around the temple always enjoys a cool climate and is often covered in fog in the evenings.

Ulun Danu Beratan, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and Tanah Lot Day Trip

Built in the 17th century, the temple is dedicated to the water goddess Dewi Danu, praying for the irrigation system of central Bali. The architectural highlight here is the 11-story Meru tower situated on a small island near the shore; when the lake’s water level rises, the entire structure appears to float on the water, creating an iconic image that was once printed on the Indonesian 50,000 Rupiah banknote.

Padang Padang Beach – A Surfing and Film Paradise

Padang Padang Beach (also known as Pantai Labuan Sait), located on the Bukit Peninsula in southern Bali, gained global fame after appearing in the film “Eat Pray Love.” The terrain here is quite unique, with the sandy beach surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs; to reach the shore, you must pass through a narrow staircase that cuts through a natural cave.

Tanah Lot, Padang-Padang Beach, Uluwatu Sunset And Kecak Dance Day Tour

Offshore, Padang Padang boasts one of the most beautiful left-hand waves in Bali, hosting major international surfing competitions during the dry season. Conversely, the waters near the shore are quite calm and shallow, ideal for swimming. Due to the relatively small beach area, this area is usually very crowded from noon to afternoon.

Waterbom Bali Water Park – A Paradise of Entertainment for All Ages

Waterbom Bali’s difference from typical water parks is its sustainable ecological design, with over 50% of the area preserved as tropical gardens, significantly reducing the oppressive heat of the Kuta sea region. All the water slides here adhere to strict international safety standards.

Waterbom Bali Ticket

In addition, the operation process is very convenient for visitors thanks to the waterproof smart wristband system (Splash Band). You only need to top up the wristband at the entrance to pay for locker rentals, towels, and food and drinks at the stalls inside without needing to carry cash or your phone.

Ubud Monkey Forest – A Kingdom of Mischievous “Inhabitants”

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud is located in Padangtegal village, right next to the center of Ubud. This nature reserve, covering approximately 12.5 hectares, is home to over 1,000 Balinese long-tailed monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) divided into several different troops.

Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud Ticket

It boasts not only a rich tropical flora with over 115 species of ancient trees but also preserves three ancient Hindu temples dating back to the 14th century, most notably the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal. The combination of the ancient forest, moss-covered stone statues, and wildlife here deeply reflects the indigenous people’s Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which aims for harmony between humans, nature, and the divine.

Tirta Empul Sacred Spring Temple – Soul Purification Ritual

Located in Tampaksiring, Tirta Empul is one of the largest and most sacred Hindu water temples in Bali, built in the 10th century under the Warmadewa dynasty. The temple structure is divided into three main courtyards, with the central area being the purification pool (petirtaan) receiving crystal-clear, continuously bubbling groundwater.

Purification Ritual In Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple and Ubud Tour

Here, locals and tourists participate in the Melukat purification ritual. The process involves lining up to wade through the cool water and bowing before a system of carved stone spouts to cleanse away dirt and pray for health and peace.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace – Royal Water Walking Platform

Pura Tirta Gangga 2 — Tirta Gangga Temple

Ubud Highlights And Lempuyang Gate of Heaven Sunset Private Tour

Once a royal retreat, Tirta Gangga captivates visitors with its vibrant koi ponds and unique water-walking platforms. The combination of lush green gardens and ancient fountains makes this a very relaxing place for children to stroll.

Tegenungan Waterfall – An Ideal Relaxation Spot

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Tegenungan Waterfall is located in Kemenuh village, Gianyar district, about a 20-minute drive south of Ubud city center. Unlike most other waterfalls in Bali that require hiking through the jungle, Tegenungan has a very convenient access with a system of sturdy concrete steps leading directly from the parking area to the base of the falls.

Kuta Tegenungan Waterfall & Tirta Empul Full-Day Private Tour

This waterfall is about 25 meters high and is famous for its large volume of water and powerful flow cascading into a large natural pool below. Visitors can swim in the shallow water near the shore, but should follow safety signs and instructions from the on-duty lifeguards, avoiding getting too close to the center of the falls where there are deep whirlpools.

FINNS Beach Club – The Most Vibrant Destination in Canggu

Finns Beach Club, located right on Berawa Beach in the Canggu area, is one of the largest beachfront entertainment complexes in Bali. The building stands out with its unique open-air bamboo architecture, featuring large infinity pools overlooking the Indian Ocean, along with a diverse range of bars and restaurants.

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From around 4 PM, the club gets busy as visitors flock to watch the sunset. The atmosphere here transforms dynamically from a relaxing daytime ambiance to vibrant EDM and Hip-hop music from live DJs when the lights come on, perfect for groups of friends who enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Cretya Ubud – A Luxurious Day Club Amidst Rice Terraces

Cretya Ubud, Mount Batur Jeep Sunrise & Waterfall Tour in Bali

A perfect blend of modern resort living and pristine nature, Cretya boasts multi-tiered infinity pools overlooking rice terraces. You can relax in the cool water, sip cocktails, and enjoy the vibrant rhythm of chill-out music amidst lush greenery.

Seminyak Beach – Upscale Shopping and Coffee

Beach Horse Riding Experience at Seminyak Beach Bali

Seminyak is the capital of upscale living with designer fashion boutiques, wellness spas, and art-filled cafes. Don’t forget to visit the beach bars with colorful umbrellas to watch the sunset and experience the trendy Bali lifestyle with your friends.

Kuta Beach – The “Mecca” of Surfing and Water Sports

Surf Lessons In Kuta Bali

Not only is Kuta an ideal place to learn surfing, but it’s also a hub of lively entertainment. With powerful waves and countless beachfront bars and restaurants, it’s the perfect spot for a group of friends to enjoy the thrill of the waves and the youthful energy of Bali.

Ubud Art Village – Cultural and Creative Center

Bali Monkey Forest, Art Village, & Traditional Market Private Day Tour with Kecak Fire Dance Show

The Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud), located in the heart of town opposite the Ubud Royal Palace, is the largest hub for handicrafts in the region. This market is famous for its woven products such as round Ata bags, baskets, mats, and wood carvings crafted by artisans from nearby villages like Pengosekan and Tegallalang.

When browsing the stalls, you should skillfully negotiate prices (often you can bargain down 30-50% of the initial asking price). After leaving the main market, a stroll along nearby streets like Jalan Karna will take you past a series of small art galleries and pottery workshops, offering a unique cultural experience.

Jeeping Mount Batur – Chasing the Sunrise from the Summit

A 4×4 Jeep tour will take you through rugged forests and hills to witness the glorious sunrise from the summit of Mount Batur. Sipping a hot cup of cocoa in the cool air while watching the sun rise over a sea of clouds is an exhilarating adventure.

Mount Batur Sunrise Tour with Jeep or Trekking Insta360 Included

Ayung River Rafting – A Thrilling Race Through the Tropical Rainforest

Ayung White Water Rafting

The Ayung River offers an exhilarating adventure through rapids and steep gorges. You’ll admire ancient rock carvings along the banks and enjoy the powerful current through the pristine old-growth forest.

Sekumpul Waterfalls – Bali’s Seven Most Magnificent Waterfalls

Sekumpul Falls is like a silk strip between verdant forests | must things to do in Bali

Only after trekking through a lush green bamboo forest can you truly admire the breathtaking beauty of the seven waterfalls cascading down from a height of 50 meters. Sekumpul is the embodiment of wilderness, where the fine mist and roaring sound of the waterfall will awaken your spirit of conquest.

Kelingking Beach – The Legendary Dinosaur Backbone

With cliffs shaped like a T-Rex stretching out into the ocean, Kelingking is a worthwhile trekking challenge in Nusa Penida. Looking down from above at the white sand and deep blue water, you will feel the insignificance of humanity before the wonders of Mother Nature.

Peguyangan Waterfall – The Green Staircase on the Cliff

Narrow Stairs at Peguyangan Falls | must things to do in Bali

Nusa Penida Instagramable Day Tour With Snorkelling Experience

This is one of the most unique waterfalls with a series of green stairs rising vertically against the limestone cliffs, directly facing the sea. The journey up these precarious stairs requires courage, but the reward is the breathtaking view of the azure ocean and a sacred water temple at the foot of the falls.

Lempuyan Gate of Heaven – A Gateway to Paradise

Lempuyang Gate of Heaven Tour Through Bali Most Famous Destinations

Famous for its legendary “reflection” photo, Lempuyan Gate of Heaven offers a direct view of the majestic Mount Agung volcano. It’s a favorite spot for photographers, where you can admire the exquisite temple architecture and the pristine atmosphere of the eastern Bali highlands.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces – A Masterpiece of Human Form

Bali Ubud Full-Day Private Tour with Monkey Forest & Rice Terrace

Surrounding the Tegallalang rice terraces are Bali swings designed for viewing and photography from above. These swings are securely attached to ancient coconut trees or specialized steel frames, allowing visitors to reach out and take in the entire terraced fields and coconut groves below.

For safety, all participants are provided with full-body safety harnesses. The ideal time to visit Tegallalang is between 6:00 and 8:00 AM, when the weather is cool, the sun isn’t too strong, and the crowds aren’t too dense.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall – A Heavenly Ray of Sunshine in a Cave

Tukad Cepung Waterfall is located in the Bangli area, about an hour’s drive from the center of Ubud. The unique feature of this waterfall, approximately 15 meters high, is that it is completely hidden inside a rocky canyon with an open arch above. To reach the base of the waterfall, you have to walk down a series of steep steps and wade through a shallow stream winding between two towering cliffs.

The biggest highlight at Tukad Cepung occurs between 9:00 and 11:00 AM on a sunny day. At this time, the midday sun shines directly through the vegetation and rock crevices above the cave, creating powerful beams of light (God rays) that illuminate the rushing water and mist.

Uluwatu Temple – Majestic Cliffs and Fiery Sunsets

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is situated atop a sheer limestone cliff approximately 70 meters high on the southwestern edge of the Bukit Peninsula, overlooking the Indian Ocean. It is one of Bali’s six most sacred pillar temples (Sad Kahyangan), built in the 11th century to worship the deity who protects the island from evil spirits from the sea.

The most memorable experience here is the traditional Kecak fire dance performance, held daily at 6:00 PM in an open-air theater on the cliff edge. Visitors can watch the dance, a reenactment of the Ramayana epic, performed by over 50 male dancers, while admiring the sunset over the horizon.

Broken Beach Arch & Angel’s Billabong – Geological Wonders of Nusa Penida

Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong are a famous cluster of landmarks located close together on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida Island, about 45 minutes by speedboat from Sanur port in mainland Bali. Broken Beach (locally known as Pasih Uug) is a giant natural sinkhole between limestone cliffs, notable for its natural rock arch spanning the channel from the ocean into the circular bay inside.

A few hundred meters away, Angel’s Billabong appears as a natural infinity pool nestled between two sea-facing cliffs. On sunny days, thanks to the flat structure of the limestone pool, the water here is always calm and crystal clear, turning a distinct emerald green, creating a strong contrast with the dark rocks surrounding it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Tourist Attractions in Bali

1. What is the best time to visit Bali?

You should visit Bali during the dry season (April to October). The weather is sunny, the sea is clear and blue, and there is little rain, making it perfect for outdoor activities and taking photos.

2. Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa to travel to Bali?

Absolutely not. Vietnamese citizens are visa-exempt for Bali (Indonesia) for up to 30 days. You only need a passport valid for at least 6 months to travel.

3. What is the most convenient mode of transportation on the island?

The attractions in Bali are often quite far apart, so you should hire a private car with a driver (8-10 hours). This is the safest, most comfortable, and most energy-efficient way to travel between areas.

4. Do I need to book in advance for scuba diving or visiting Nusa Penida Island?

It’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially for island tours or car rentals. Booking early through Klook ensures you secure your spot, avoids sold-out situations, and gets you better prices than buying directly.

5. What should you keep in mind when visiting sacred temples?

To respect the local culture, you are required to wear a sarong and a long-sleeved shirt when entering temples. Most large temples have sarong rental services right at the entrance, so you don’t need to worry too much.

Bali is a wonderful destination with its natural beauty, unique culture, and diverse travel experiences. Whether it’s your first time or your nth trip, this island still offers special experiences and endless discoveries. Plan ahead and immerse yourself in the beauty of Bali’s tourist destinations on your next trip!

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