Things to do in Bali
Surf in the morning, temples in the afternoon and a beach club at sunset. Bali is small, but it has endless ways to spend a day.
Ku De Ta, Seminyak
Bali's beach clubs come into their own at sunset, with music, cocktails and the Indian Ocean as a backdrop.
Bali holidays: the island of good vibes
Bali is the dream destination for surfers, yoga lovers, party people and families alike. The island is small enough to explore in day trips, but each area has its own character, so choose your base carefully.
Seminyak and Canggu are trendy, with boutique shops, cafés and beach clubs. Kuta and Legian are busy and good value. Ubud, in the green interior, is the cultural heart of the island, while the Bukit Peninsula in the south has clifftop hotels, white beaches and world-class surf.
Surfers' paradise
Kuta's long sandy beach is a classic place for a first surf lesson, while experienced surfers head for Uluwatu.
The best things to do in Bali
Learn to surf or take a yoga class, walk through the Tegallalang rice terraces near Ubud and visit the sea temples of Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, where traditional Kecak dances are performed at sunset. Take a day trip to see waterfalls in the north of the island or head out on a boat to snorkel off Nusa Penida.
Bali's food scene is just as much of a draw. Try nasi campur, babi guling and fresh fish grilled on the beach at Jimbaran, then end the day at one of the very best beach clubs in Bali.
Party at Finns
Finns in Canggu is one of the island's biggest beach clubs, with pools, restaurants and DJs.
Where to stay in Bali
Base yourself near the beach in Seminyak, Legian or Canggu for restaurants and nightlife, or in Ubud for peace and nature. Many visitors split their stay between the coast and the jungle.
Picolo's pick in Legian is The Bandha Hotel & Suites, a calm, elegant hotel with a lagoon pool and everything you would expect from a five-star stay, at a price that will not break the bank.
The Bandha's lagoon pool
After a day on the beach, the lagoon pool at The Bandha is the perfect place to cool off.
Best time to visit Bali
The dry season from April to October is the best time to visit Bali, with sunshine, lower humidity and good surf on the west coast. July, August and the Christmas holidays are the busiest periods, so book early.
November to March is the wet season. Showers are usually heavy but short, the landscape is at its greenest and prices are lower. Note that Bali shuts down completely for one day during Nyepi, the Balinese day of silence, usually in March. Read more about the rest of the country in our Indonesia holidays guide.
Bali holidays: frequently asked questions
Where should I stay in Bali?
It depends on your style of holiday. Seminyak and Canggu suit couples and friends who want restaurants and beach clubs, Ubud is best for culture, yoga and nature, Nusa Dua and Sanur are quieter and family-friendly, and Uluwatu is the place for surfers and clifftop sunsets.
How many days do you need in Bali?
A week is enough to enjoy the beaches and spend a couple of days in Ubud. With ten days or more, you can add a trip to Nusa Penida, the Gili Islands or the quieter north and east of the island.
Is Bali expensive?
Bali can suit most budgets. Local warungs serve delicious meals for very little, and there are plenty of good-value guesthouses. At the other end of the scale, the island has some of Asia's most luxurious villas and resorts.
What should I wear when visiting temples in Bali?
Cover your shoulders and knees, and wear a sarong and sash, which are often provided or can be rented at the entrance. Be respectful during ceremonies and follow any signs or instructions from temple staff.