Long-haul
Things to do in Bali: temples, surf, beach clubs and volcanoes
The kecak dance begins as the sun sinks into the sea below Uluwatu Temple, and a hundred voices chant in rhythm. The best things to do in Bali, area by area, and where to stay.
The kecak dance begins as the sun sinks into the sea below Uluwatu Temple. A hundred men sit in a circle chanting in rhythm, and behind them the cliffs and ocean turn flaming orange. A monkey steals a pair of sunglasses from the front row, and nobody is surprised.
Bali is more than beaches. The island has temples, volcanoes, rice terraces, surf and some of Asia’s best food, and each area has its own feel. Here are the best things to do and where to stay.
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The best things to do in Bali
Uluwatu Temple: the clifftop temple, with the kecak dance at sunset.
Tanah Lot: the sea temple on a rock in the surf, most beautiful at sunset.
Surfing: Uluwatu for experienced surfers, Canggu and Kuta for beginners.
Beach clubs in Seminyak and Canggu: pools, music and sunsets. Read our guide to Bali’s beach clubs.
Ubud: rice terraces, temples and jungle. Read more in our Ubud guide.
East Bali: Lempuyang Temple, the Tirta Gangga water palace and the quiet Sidemen valley.
Nusa Penida: the cliffs and manta rays a boat ride away.
Book the experience: See tours and things to do in Bali
Where to stay in Bali
Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula: cliffs, surf and spectacular resorts.
Seminyak and Canggu: restaurants, shops and beach clubs.
Nusa Dua: calm beaches and large resorts, great for families.
Ubud: jungle, culture and quiet.
Many combine three or four nights in Ubud with a few nights by the beach.
Uluwatu
Alila Villas Uluwatu sits on the cliffs above the Indian Ocean.
Uluwatu: Alila Villas Uluwatu
Alila sits on the cliffs at the southern tip of Bali, with private pool villas looking straight out over the ocean. The cabana on the edge of the cliff is one of the most photographed on the island.
Uluwatu Temple and the surf beaches are close by.
Book your stay: See rooms at Alila Villas Uluwatu
Seminyak
The Legian sits right on the beach in Seminyak.
Seminyak: The Legian Seminyak
The Legian sits right on the beach in Seminyak, with ocean-facing suites and three pools. The restaurants and beach clubs are within walking distance, and you watch the sunset from your lounger.
Guests praise the staff, and it is one of Bali’s classic hotels.
Book your stay: See rooms at The Legian
Nusa Dua
The Mulia sits on the beach in Nusa Dua.
Nusa Dua: The Mulia Bali
The Mulia sits on a calm beach in Nusa Dua, with six pools and several restaurants. The sea is often calmer here than on the west coast, which suits families.
It is a large resort with plenty to do without leaving the grounds.
Book your stay: See rooms at The Mulia
When is the best time to visit Bali?
The dry season from April to October is the most popular, with sunshine and little rain. The rainy season from November to March brings heavy showers but also lower prices and lush scenery. On Nyepi, the Balinese day of silence in March, the whole island shuts down for a day, including the airport.
When should you book?
July and August: peak season, book three to five months ahead.
Christmas and New Year: popular, book early.
Check Nyepi: the date changes from year to year.
For a luxury hotel of its own, read about The Bandha Hotel and Suites.
Bali FAQ
Where should you stay in Bali?
Uluwatu suits cliffs and surf, Seminyak and Canggu restaurants and beach clubs, Nusa Dua families and calm beaches, and Ubud culture and jungle.
How many days do you need in Bali?
Ten to fourteen days gives time for Ubud, a trip to Nusa Penida and a few days on the beach. With a week, choose two areas.
When is the best time for Bali?
April to October is the dry season and the most popular period. November to March is the rainy season, but greener and cheaper.
What is Nyepi?
Nyepi is the Balinese day of silence in March. For a whole day the island shuts down, including the airport, and everyone stays indoors. The night before there are parades with huge figures.
Which hotels do you recommend in Bali?
Alila Villas Uluwatu for the cliffs, The Legian in Seminyak for the beach and beach clubs, and The Mulia in Nusa Dua for families.