Best Time to Visit Bali
There are two seasons in Bali, Indonesia – the dry and rainy season. The dry season runs from May to September and is characterized by low humidity level, clear skies, breezy days and cool nights. This kind of weather is perfect for outdoor activities and is usually when festival celebrations take place.
On the other hand, the rainy season runs from October to April. You may think that you can’t do anything in Bali during the rainy season. But it’s actually still possible to enjoy some outdoor activities during the rainy season especially if you head to the eastern coasts such as Sanur or Candidasa, as these areas are the least affected by the rain and winds.
Take note, however, that no matter what the season is, Bali does not run out of things to do and enjoy!
Related article: When is the Best Time to Visit Bali
Getting To and From Bali
Bali is a very popular tourist spot. Proof of this is the vast number of airlines flying to the Bali Ngurah Rai Airport which totals to 47. The airport also caters to outbound flights to 52 cities.
Upon arrival, you’ll discover that local transportation is pretty easy. You have the option to go around on foot, or on a rented bike, motorcycle, bemo (minibus), or a private car. If you’re feeling adventurous, hail public taxis, buses or bemo instead. Some of them will give you a good deal.
Where to Stay in Bali
Choosing the right place to stay is essential for a good vacation. Making this decision will depend on your personal preference and of course, your budget. Bali offers a multitude of accommodation options ranging from budget to five-star hotels.
If you have an unlimited budget, you might want to try Seminyak or Kerobokan. Both places are known for luxury and high-class style. It’s great not just for families but also for those who appreciate a nice but not-too-hectic nightlife. For those who have a preference for nature, Ubud is the ideal place. It’s peaceful and rustic, perfect for those who want just to lay back and enjoy art and culture.
Related article: Top 30 Luxury Villas Rental in Bali
Bali’s Top Attractions
Apart from the amazing beaches that Bali offers, there are many other attractions tourists can visit.
Bali’s Volcano
Also known as Mount Batur, it is a favorite tourist destination mainly because of the breathtaking view of the volcano’s crater. From Penelokan, one of the main villages surrounding Mount Batur, you’ll be able to see the lakes surrounding the volcano.
Temples and Shrines
Your visit to Bali won’t be complete without visiting at least one of the temples or shrines, as these are considered significant Bali landmarks. One must-see temple is the Uluwatu Temple, which sits on a cliffside, about 250 feet above the waters of the stunning Indian Ocean. From the temple, you can enjoy the spectacular view of the waves and the sunset.
Also frequented by tourists is Tanah Lot, which is located on the shores of a small village, atop an outcrop amidst the crashing waves. Other famous temples you can visit are Goa Gajah, Ulun Danu Beratan temple, and Besakih temple.
Take a look at our list of the Ten Must-Visit Temples in Bali
Cultural and Cabaret Shows
There are many cultural dinner shows across Bali, offering a great way to experience both Bali’s culture and traditional cuisine. Many hotels also offer cultural dinner shows at their restaurants such as at the Taman Gita Terrace, Pasar Malam, and Tandjung Sari. You may also witness similar spectacles outside hotels and resorts such as the shows at the Laka Leke Garden Restaurant, Café Lotus Ubud, and the Kupu Kupu Amphitheatre.
Some of the best cultural shows include the Night at the Zoo. This zoo tour is complete with animal feeding and petting, and a fire dance. Another popular show is the Devdan Show. This stage performance depicts the culture and diversity across the Indonesian Archipelago. You definitely won’t be disappointed.
For those looking for a little more than the usual entertainment, some places along the LGBT-friendly areas offer cabaret shows featuring drag queens and celebrity look-alikes. You might want to check out the following places as well – Sol Beach House Benoa, Bali Beach Shack, Mixwell, Bali Joe, or Waroeng Bonita. If you still feel a craving for more entertainment, the locals can point you where to go.
Rice Terraces
Venturing inland, the numerous rice terraces of the island present a green alternative to the Bali’s beaches. These marvelous man-made spectacles is a testament to the ingenuity, hard work, and unity of the people. Some of the most promising include Tegallalang, Rendang, Sidemen, and Jatiluwih which is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Many resorts, restaurants, cafes, and private villas can be found surrounding these terraces. You may also try visiting the villages that tend to the paddies, some of them are also home to world-famous artisans such as the woodcarvers of Pakudui village in Tegallalang and the traditional dye weavers of Sidemen.
Wildlife
Bali is home to an abundance of wildlife both in land and in the sea. The sacred monkey forest sanctuary in Ubud attracts many tourists looking to interact with one of the most iconic inhabitants of the island, its monkeys. Another popular attraction is Lovina beach, said to be the best place on the planet for dolphin watching.
Read our Guide to the Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali article.
Popular Beaches in Bali
Sanur Beach
This beach has golden sand and crystal clear waters. It’s a good place to go for swimming, as the waves aren’t too rough. It’s also home to many corals and shells.
Lovina Beach
Because it’s one of the less visited spots along the northern coast, it isn’t usually swarming with tourists. This is a relatively quiet place, with calm waters. The black sand came from the lava of Mount Agung, and that makes it even more attractive for tourists. If you’re up early enough for the sunrise, you might even catch a close glimpse of the dolphins.
Balangan Beach
While considered small and quiet, Balangan Beach is not recommended for swimming. And this is because of the strong currents and high waves. The beach, however, offers a perfect place for a private getaway.
Dream Beach
It’s one of the undeveloped beaches in Bali, so everything remains beautiful and natural. The place is perfect for enjoying strolling because of its long stretch of sand.
Read more in our list of The Top 10 Bali Beaches.
Beach Activities
Bali offers many different kinds of beach activities that are suitable for all ages. If you want to feel the water around you, you can try the usual water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving or surfing. You might also wish to try the more adventurous sea walking or underwater scooter. And if you wish to experience speed and exhilaration, parasailing, jet skiing, the banana boat, water jetpacks, the rolling donut, or the flying fish are your options.
Bali Viewpoints
Looking at the horizon is often accompanied by an overwhelming sense of peace and calm. Bali has many places that offer this vibe. Two places that exude such vibe are the Uluwatu Temple and Mount Batur.
Another good spot is the Jemeluk Viewpoint, which provides the perfect place to catch the stunning views from all around. From the viewpoint, you’ll see the Indian Ocean, Mount Agung, and the traditional Balinese fishing boats dotting the ocean.
Nightlife in Bali
Just because the sun has set, that doesn’t mean that the fun stops. There are several options to get the night going, ranging from beach clubs, nightclubs and bars, art shows, and the night market. Clearly, there’s a place for just about everyone!
For those into the nightclub scene, Bali’s best clubs are located in the Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak regions. Check out the Sky Garden if you don’t want to stay in one place for too long. But if you want to belt your lungs out with karaoke, the Boshe VVIP Club is your kind of place.
Shopping in Bali
Similar to the other attractions in Bali, the shops cater to different ages, styles, and tastes. Whether you’re looking for simple souvenirs, traditional fabrics, or unique art pieces, you’re bound to find a market that suits your wants and needs.
The Ubud Art Market, for examples, sells an array of beautiful, handmade goods such as scarves, bags, baskets, and even kites. The Celuk village, on the other hand, specializes in gold and silver jewelry.
Image sources: zastavki.com, ultimatebali.com
