Home Bali Things to do & services they provide in Bali
BaliIsland DirectoryLifestyleTravel

Things to do & services they provide in Bali

198
Holiday Travel Icon Vacation Concept

Bali is a popular tourist destination with many activities and services available. Here are some things you can do in Bali:

  1. Surfing – Bali is a surfer’s paradise with world-class waves. You can rent a surfboard and take lessons from experienced instructors.
  2. Yoga – Bali is also known for its yoga retreats and classes. You can find many yoga studios and retreat centers that offer classes and programs for all levels.
  3. Snorkeling and Scuba diving – Bali has some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the world. You can take a diving course or go on a guided snorkeling tour to explore the underwater world.
  4. Spa and Wellness – Bali is a great place to indulge in spa treatments and wellness activities. You can find many spas and wellness centers that offer massages, body treatments, yoga, and meditation classes.
  5. Trekking and Hiking – Bali has many beautiful hiking trails and trekking routes. You can take a guided trek to explore the lush greenery and stunning scenery of Bali.
  6. Cultural Tours – Bali is rich in culture and history. You can take a cultural tour to explore the temples, art galleries, and museums of Bali.
  7. Adventure Sports – Bali offers many adventure sports such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, and zip lining. You can find many adventure sports companies that offer these activities.
  8. Cooking Classes – Bali is known for its delicious cuisine. You can take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Balinese dishes.
  9. Cycling – Bali is a great place for cycling with its scenic routes and countryside views. You can rent a bicycle and take a guided tour or explore on your own.
  10. Water sports – Bali offers a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. You can find many water sports centers that offer these activities.
  11. Go Island Hopping – Indonesia comprises more than 17,000 islands, featuring dense jungles, volcanic peaks, diverse wildlife, and top-notch diving sites with abundant biodiversity. Therefore, when in Bali, it’s essential to explore multiple islands, and fortunately, some of the most beautiful ones are located within a short distance of each other. Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida are some of our favorites, which are just a brief boat ride away from Bali’s mainland, taking only 40 minutes. Nusa Penida is particularly striking, with its pristine landscapes resembling those from Jurassic Park. Even if you’re short on time, you can opt for a Nusa Penida Day Tour from Bali, which covers all the must-see attractions, such as the Instagram-famous Kelingking Beach, the natural infinity pool at Angel’s Billabong, and opportunities to snorkel at Crystal Bay, Manta Bay, or Gamat Bay. Moreover, a personal photographer will accompany you to capture those essential shots along the way!.
  12. Splish and splash – If you’re looking for a change of scenery from the beach or jungle, consider visiting Waterbom for a day of thrilling water activities. This waterpark has been repeatedly voted as the best in Asia and offers an excellent experience for families, children, and adults. It has a variety of rides, including pools for children, tandem race slides, and the extreme Climax, which drops you through a vertical trap door. You can spend a day experiencing the Twin Racers, Boomerang, Pipeline, and other rides, followed by a relaxing trip down the Lazy River through the park’s tropical gardens. And if you book through Klook, you can save on the entrance fee and enjoy flexible dates.
  13.  Hire a yacht and set sail in style! – Imagine a stunning scene of clear blue skies, sparkling waters, verdant green islands all around, and your own luxurious yacht to discover it all. Sounds like paradise, right? Well, you can experience all of this and more by renting a yacht or joining a boat tour to explore Bali’s picturesque coastlines. It’s an ideal combination of sailing, snorkeling, swimming with Manta Rays, and spending an unforgettable day aboard a glittering yacht. We recommend booking with Day Trip Bali, which offers a whole range of brand new boats and yachts, along with certified guides and a GoPro for capturing those crucial underwater photos and videos. They’ll take you on an adventure to explore the splendor of Bali, Nusa Penida, and Nusa Lembongan, accompanied by an experienced crew who will take care of everything. And if you need further convincing, just read their thousands of five-star reviews on Airbnb and TripAdvisor!
  14. Get down and dirty with friendly Sumatran elephants – If you’re a fan of animal encounters, then you won’t want to miss a visit to Bali Zoo – the island’s first zoological park. Over 500 rare and exotic animals call this place home, including endangered species like the Komodo dragon, Sumatran Tiger, Orangutan, and Bali Starling. You’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with free-roaming deer and families of lemurs. And don’t forget about the muddy elephants who will even invite you to join them for a bath! Bali Zoo offers a unique half-day “Elephant Mud Fun” experience where you’ll be picked up from your hotel and introduced to the gentle giants by the zoo’s Mahout. After you’ve rolled up your sleeves and put on your swimsuit, you’ll walk with the elephants to the nearby River Wos for a mud bath and spa treatment. You’ll get to feed, play, and interact with the elephants while getting covered in mud, before cleaning up for lunch.
  15. Soak up some rays at Bali’s best beaches – Imagine a refreshing ocean breeze, your hair tasting of salt, sun-kissed skin, and the book that has been calling out to you for months – what could be better than the beach life? In Bali, the beach experience is even more luxurious, with the addition of elegant sunset cocktails, exceptional surfing, exciting water sports, and renowned beach clubs. Remember to bring sunscreen, a sarong, and create a summer playlist, as Bali’s finest beaches should definitely be on your to-do list.
  16. Adventure off the beaten path – If you’re looking for more authentic and scenic areas in Bali, South Bali may not be your ideal destination as it offers mostly lively urban areas. For a more traditional and natural experience, you should explore the less frequented regions of Bali. One of our favorites is Pemuteran in the north-west, known for its serene bays and stunning mountain peaks. Alternatively, you can head east to Sidemen’s highlands, which offer lush jungles and panoramic views of the volcanoes.
  17. Go chasing waterfalls – Definitely add a visit to one of Bali’s top waterfalls to your itinerary when on the island. You can choose to swim beneath them, jump off them, or just gaze at them from afar. Our personal favorite is Aling-Aling waterfall, mostly because of the natural slide that has developed there over time. Don a life jacket or pick up a float and enjoy gliding down the slick rocky incline – wheee!
  18. Eat like a local at a roadside warung – A warung is a modest eatery owned by locals that usually offers authentic Indonesian and Balinese cuisine. You can enjoy a generous serving of scrumptious and genuine dishes, such as nasi goreng, babi guling, beef rendang, tempe manis, and many others, for just $2. We have curated a list of seven dishes you must try in Bali, complete with the best warungs where you can savor them!
  19. See a traditional healer – I apologize for the cliche, but you simply must visit a traditional healer during your time in Bali! This ancient Balinese practice has been used for centuries to heal various illnesses, using natural remedies, massage, and divine energy to balance the body and mind. Trust us, the best local healers in Bali are truly miraculous, and you won’t regret giving it a try.
  20. Be like the cool kids of Canggu – Canggu, also known as Bali’s bohemian hub, is quickly becoming a top destination for travelers. Visitors flock here for its trendy bars, spas, and boutique shops, as well as the expanding selection of cafes and restaurants. There’s something for everyone, including vegan breakfasts, picturesque sunset locations, and ideal date night spots. Be sure to arrive with an empty stomach and an open mind, as there are plenty of dishes to try and places to explore.
  21. Explore the island on a scooter – Undoubtedly, the fastest mode of transportation in Bali is by scooter, which you can easily rent from almost any location on the island. You can hire one for a day, a week, or even a month at an affordable cost of only $4 per day. However, it’s essential to wear a helmet and have prior experience riding one because the roads can be chaotic, and there are hidden bumps and potholes around every turn.
  22. Get a new ‘do at a top salon –  Bali’s top-rated hair salons offer top-notch services such as expert haircuts, bohemian balayage, and even blow drys served with a Cosmo cocktail. What’s more, these services come at a fraction of the price compared to what you might pay in your home country. Why not treat yourself to a new hairstyle, opt for some blonde highlights, and complete the experience with a relaxing head massage? You deserve it!
  23. Download GO-JEK & live the dream – Go-Jek is highly valued by both Bali’s residents and expatriates because it provides a variety of services in one app, which is considered a lifesaver. It is difficult to recall how people managed before this app was available. It is recommended that one should download the app upon arrival in Bali, as it offers affordable transportation, food delivery from favorite restaurants, in-villa massage, cleaning services, beauty services, personal shoppers, postal services, and even home removal services, all accessible through the app.
  24. Explore Bali’s jewellery-making heritage – If you have an interest in elegant, handmade jewelry and distinctive architecture, a visit to the John Hardy Kapal Bamboo Boutique & Workshop in Mambal is a must. This boutique is located in the midst of Bali’s lush greenery and is hidden inside a striking structure made entirely of sustainable materials such as bamboo. Here, you can peruse John Hardy’s iconic, handmade, and environmentally-friendly jewelry pieces, including collections that exhibit Bali’s jewelry-making traditions. Apart from the stunning boutique, you can also attend a jewelry masterclass to learn about the intricate craftsmanship of each piece. Over 700 craftsmen and craftswomen can be seen designing, carving, shaping, and weaving John Hardy’s signature pieces. Additionally, you can try your hand at chain-weaving and bring home your very own John Hardy piece that you will cherish forever. The boutique is situated at Banjar Baturning No. 1, Desa Mambal, and can be contacted at +62 361 469 888 or visit@johnhardy.com.
  25. Browse local goods at a morning market – According to the saying, the person who wakes up early gets the advantage. So, rise and shine and explore Bali’s finest traditional markets to purchase fresh farm produce, handmade artisanal items, high-quality fabrics, and vintage clothing. Alternatively, if you’re searching for contemporary goods, head to one of the trendy tourist markets to find the latest fashion, jewelry, and organic products.
  26. Get something custom made – While exploring Bali, you will come across numerous tailors who specialize in creating unique and personalized items such as furniture, shoes, homeware, clothing, and jewelry to your exact preferences. These tailors can be found lining the streets of Bali, offering their services for leather goods, dressmaking, and even ceramics. With their expert craftsmanship and attention to detail, you can be assured of receiving a one-of-a-kind piece that is tailored to your exact specifications.
  27. Watch a postcard-perfect Bali Sunset – To experience a picturesque golden hour, one can select the best sunset spots in Bali to enjoy the captivating transformation of the sky. Whether in a beach or jungle setting, choose a spot that offers a stunning view. If you are unsure where to begin, explore our recommended selection of Bali’s top 33 sunset bars to sit back, relax, and admire the radiant sky.
  28. Get a cream bath – The cream bath is a conventional hair therapy that is widely used by Indonesian women, leading to their lustrous and healthy-looking hair. This treatment is also beneficial for softening sun-damaged hair. The process commences with a soothing head, neck, and shoulder massage, followed by the application of a homemade hair mask. The mask is left on the scalp for 30 minutes under a steamer, and then the hair is further massaged and conditioned. This affordable treatment is truly a blissful experience, and we highly recommend it as we can’t get enough of it!
  29. Sail the sea on a local fishing boat – Nothing beats the feeling of sailing through the vast ocean with the briny sea breeze blowing through your hair and a refreshing beverage in your hand. Bali offers an exceptional ocean experience, providing a range of options from lavish yachts and luxurious liveaboards to traditional local fishing boats like the Black Pearl in Jimbaran. Regardless of your preference, we recommend cruising along Bali’s stunning coastline in the late afternoon, as it provides the perfect timing to witness a magnificent sunset.
  30. Spot wild deer at Menjangan’s National Park – Escape the busy and noisy atmosphere of South Bali by heading north towards the Bali Barat National Park. A visit to the nearby Menjangan Island, also known as Deer Island, is highly recommended, as it offers excellent snorkelling opportunities and a chance to observe black monkeys and stunning wild deer. 
  31. Dip into Bali’s hot springs – Bali has several hot springs to offer, but the ones in the north and north-east are our top picks. In the north-east, located close to Mount Batur, you can find the “Toya Bungkah Batur” and “Toya Devasya” hot springs. However, the most famous hot springs in Bali are probably the ones in the north, near Lovina Beach. The sacred “Air Panas Banjar” hot springs are surrounded by a lush jungle and beautifully landscaped tropical gardens. With three public pools and one private, all featuring gushing hot water from volcanic origins, which pours out of eight stone-carved dragon heads, it’s the perfect spot to bring your swimsuit and enjoy a therapeutic and picture-perfect experience.
  32.  Explore the hip ‘hood of Seminyak – If you’re looking for a bit of luxury and sophistication, Seminyak is the place to be, away from Bali’s rice fields and traditional temples. Spend a day here to discover the trendy restaurants, stylish spas, chic beach bars, and upscale villas. And if you’re a fashion lover, don’t miss out on shopping at Seminyak’s top boutiques.
  33. Bliss out with a Balinese Massage – A Balinese massage is a must-try experience during your Bali vacation. The reason being, the skilled therapists in Bali use traditional techniques that are incredibly soothing and relaxing. They employ fragrant essential oils, firm pressure, long strokes, and stretching to provide an unparalleled experience of comfort, all for an hour of bliss that costs less than $10. To immerse yourself in the local culture, you can easily find a Balinese massage at most of Bali’s top affordable spas.
  34. Make your own perfume – If you’re looking for a unique experience in Bali, consider heading to L’Atelier Parfums et Créations at TS Suites hotel in Seminyak. They offer a three-hour or 90-minute perfume workshop where you can create your own fragrance and take it home in a 30ml bottle. This is a great gift idea or a special treat for yourself that you don’t get to do every day.
  35. Graze all day on a gourmet Sunday brunch – Bali’s brunch offerings are among the world’s finest, so spending a leisurely weekend with a Champagne brunch should be a top priority on your Bali to-do list. Indulge in the island’s finest unlimited food options, free-flowing beverages, scenic ocean vistas, and top-notch service for hours on end. If you’re unsure where to begin, take a look at our recommendations for Bali’s best brunch spreads.
  36. Raise your heart rate in Ubud – Although Ubud is famous for its wholesome cuisine, calming yoga, and serene rainforest hideaways, it is also packed with activities for adventure enthusiasts. You can dive off waterfalls, drive quad bikes in the forests, raft through the Ayung River rapids, or bike downhill through the vast open landscapes. Prepare to get your adrenaline pumping!
  37. Eat at an award-winning restaurant – It cannot be emphasized enough that Bali’s culinary scene is on par with the best in the world. To fully enjoy your trip, make sure to include visits to Bali’s top-notch restaurants in your itinerary. Whether you opt for fine dining establishments like Ubud’s Locavore or Seminyak’s Sarong, or prefer the laid-back island vibes of Canggu’s cool cafes, Ubud’s foodie haven amidst lush greenery, Seminyak’s trendy eateries for a romantic night out, or Uluwatu’s restaurants boasting spectacular cliff views, there’s something for every palate. Come hungry and get ready to savor the flavors!
  38. Get a selfie with a monkey – Bali has a variety of monkey species, and encounters with them are frequent, particularly in Ubud and Uluwatu. If you want to interact with the playful macaques, visit the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud or the Pura Luhur temple in Uluwatu, but be careful with your belongings and consider taking a photo with them if you’re feeling brave.
  39. Take a dip in an infinity pool – To start with, taking a dip in an infinity pool in Bali is a great addition to your Instagram feed. However, this experience goes beyond that, as infinity pools are prevalent in Bali, and it is just a matter of deciding whether you prefer a pool with jungle, ocean, or sky views. Our top pick is the Hanging Gardens located in Ubud, followed closely by the glass-bottom pool at The Edge in Uluwatu, which is situated high up in the sky.
  40. Visit a traditional temple – Bali is a primarily Hindu island with a plethora of gorgeous temples, so embrace the island’s culture and take the time to explore a few of them. One temple that you simply can’t miss is Pura Tanah Lot, situated on rocks that overlook the ocean and offer stunning views at both sunrise and sunset. We also highly recommend visiting Ulun Danu Beratan, a floating temple in the middle of a lake, and the Besakih Temple that towers into the sky.
  41.  Cycle around Lake Batur – Experience the breathtaking views of Kintamani, such as Mount Batur, Lake Batur, the dark lava fields, and many exquisite temples, by cycling. You can even make it an adventurous downhill ride all the way back to Ubud if you dare. And if you admire the beauty of Lake Batur, don’t miss out on visiting three other sacred lakes in Bali.
  42. Hit up one of Bali’s best beach clubs – If you didn’t spend time lounging on a white sandy beach, sipping on a designer cocktail with your toes in an infinity pool, did you even have a Bali vacation? Relaxing at one of the island’s top beach clubs is a must-do on any Bali bucket list. Just show up, switch off, and soak up the sun and atmosphere all day and night long.
  43. Scale the rice terraces of Ubud – Bali boasts numerous functional rice fields, but the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud stand out among them for their expansive and picturesque valleys of rice paddies. In all directions, the terraces resemble a vast expanse of rice fields that resemble stair steps, with diligent farmers tending to their precious crops. As it is a popular tourist spot, if you wish to avoid the crowds, head to Jatiluwih in the Tabanan Regency instead.
  44. Get inked at a tattoo studio – Tattoos have gained immense popularity over the years, and it’s hard to walk down the Batu Bolong strip in the hipster ‘hood of Canggu without spotting a beard-and-sleeve combo. Therefore, if you’re looking to get some fresh ink, it’s best to head to one of Bali’s top tattoo studios. Our suggestion would be Artful Ink in Seminyak or Babayaga in Canggu – both tried, tested, and approved!
  45. Hunt down Bali’s abandoned planes – Looking for an offbeat adventure on your Bali trip? It may sound unusual, but exploring some of the reported abandoned planes on the island is a must-try. You won’t find this in every guidebook, and it doesn’t require any booking fees. All you need is an adventurous spirit, a driver, and Google Maps to lead you to the right locations. To give you a hint, the three most well-known planes are located in Nyang Nyang, Kerobokan, and halfway down Bypass Ngurah Rai, while the others are waiting for you to discover!
  46. Sip on a tropical cocktail at one of Bali’s best bars – Bali is renowned for its excellent cocktails, which are prepared with great care and attention at some of the island’s most iconic and impressive bars. Although Rock Bar in Jimbaran is probably the most well-known, there are plenty of other options to choose from if you’re looking to avoid the tourist crowds. For example, you might want to check out a clifftop location in Uluwatu, or explore the local watering holes in Canggu, Seminyak, and even Ubud.
  47. Shop ‘til you drop – Bali offers a wonderful shopping experience with a variety of items to choose from such as furniture, fashion, homeware, bikinis, shoes, food, and bags. You can find a wide selection of western goods in Seminyak’s stores and Canggu’s boho boutiques, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a day of retail therapy. Alternatively, if you’re looking for more traditional pieces and artisanal creations, exploring the back streets of Ubud would be a great option.
  48. Feel on top of the world at Pura Lempuyang – Pura Lempuyang, a sacred site in Bali, offers not only a breathtaking panoramic view from its location one-thousand steps high, but also holds great religious significance. It is referred to as the “Gateway to Heaven,” and if you visit on a clear day, you’ll be able to witness Mount Agung’s majestic peak perfectly framed by the temple gates. Besides the main attraction, there are six other temples to discover, as well as nearby waterfalls and beautiful rice terraces to explore. Plan for a full day trip to fully enjoy all that this site has to offer.
  49. Sip on Bali’s best beans – Bali offers an extensive range of coffee options that could make you a coffee lover if you are not already. From cold brews, iced lattes, French presses to espressos, the variety is vast. You can either explore the author’s favorite coffee options in Bali or visit a coffee plantation in the serene and remote Bedugul hills to witness the process of coffee-making firsthand.
  50. Stay in a swanky villa – Bali offers a diverse range of accommodation options that are simply stunning. You can choose from luxurious villas in Seminyak, private residences in Canggu, or even castle-like mansions in the midst of the Ubud jungle. With options ranging from beachfront properties, clifftop retreats, or overlooking picturesque rice valleys, the level of luxury you can experience in Bali is exceptional, and often more affordable than expected.
  51. Walk amongst a sea of Marigolds – In the remote village of Desa Temukus in East Bali, the Marigold fields offer one of the most vibrant and picturesque landscapes on the island. These fields are abundant with Marigolds, which are used in Hindu offerings to the Gods. The best time to visit is a couple of weeks before a significant Balinese ceremony, which is usually before a harvest. However, the dates can vary from year to year, so it’s best to check with the locals if you’re unsure.
  52. Swing through the trees – We’ve all come across those enchanting photographs of Bali swings, towering high above the treetops. One of these famous swing spots can be found at the Zen Hideaway retreat, situated in the hills of Ubud. However, there are other remarkable swings to try out on the island. If you’re seeking a swing with a jungle view, Zen Hideaway is a perfect choice. On the other hand, if you want to swing with your feet in the ocean, Pandawa Beach or Gili Trawangan would be ideal destinations.
  53. Visit the Bali Botanic Gardens – The Bali Botanic Gardens located in Bedugul offer a refreshing mountain breeze, vast green fields, and meticulously manicured gardens that extend as far as the eye can see. Its bamboo forest also presents an adventurous hiking trail. Spending a day at this scenic location and having a picnic is highly recommended. Do not forget to pick up a basket of fresh strawberries sold on the roadside along the way.
  54. Dolphin watch in Lovina – Lovina in North Bali is an amazing destination on its own, but including a Dolphin Watching tour in your itinerary will make your trip even more delightful. Board a traditional outrigger before sunrise and witness the silhouettes of small and playful dolphins against the bright sky as dawn breaks. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your day.
  55. Go on a family day out – Bali is a tropical paradise that offers a plethora of exciting activities for kids to enjoy. Whether your children are interested in wild animal encounters such as night safaris and butterfly domes, or artistic pursuits, there is something for every age and interest. Bali also has plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. To get some inspiration for family-friendly activities, take a look at our extensive list of awesome things to do with kids in Bali. You’re welcome!

Overall, Bali has something for everyone, and the services provided are vast and diverse.

 

Written by
Angeline Karina

A vibrant soul living her best life in the tropical paradise of Bali, Indonesia. Born with an insatiable curiosity for flavors and a passion for the written word, Angeline has seamlessly blended her love for food and writing into a delectable journey.

Related Articles

Bali’s gorgeous villas for long stays

Here are 8 gorgeous villas for long stays in Bali, along with...

Best Must Visit Hindu Temples In Bali

Here is a list of some of the best must visit Hindu...

Best Sport Bars in Bali

1. Galaxy Sport Bar – Galaxy Sport bar located at Seminyak, Bali....

List Of Best Luxury Hotels In Bali

1. The St. Regis Bali Resort (@stregisbali) Nestled along the golden sands...