Bali is an incredibly popular tourist destination with good reason. There are simply countless locations to visit and hidden gems to discover. And the sunsets are glorious no matter where you are!
If you are planning on visiting Bali soon, check out our list of eight stunning places to explore.
1. Ubud
Ubud has been immortalized in Eat, Pray, Love, and it is certainly a place you’ll want to see for yourself. It’s Bali’s hub of art and culture, and it’s an absolute delight to visit. There are some amazing museums and galleries to check out, like the Agung Rai Museum of Art and Neka Art Museum. They house both traditional and contemporary artwork. You should also make sure to head to the Ubud Art Market to check out the paintings and jewelry. Note that Ubud can be very busy at times, so prepare for a bit of a crowd.
2. Ubud Monkey Forest
While you’re in Ubud, visit the Monkey Forest too. It’s just a 10-minute walk away. There are, of course, the monkeys to see and learn about, but you will also enjoy the walk through the forest. There are some temples you’ll want to see too. Be sure to adhere to all the guidelines posted at the entrance. Most importantly, place all of your belongings in a bag, as the monkeys may grab and steal them. Pay particular attention to sunglasses, jewelry, and your phone.
3. Ubud Royal Palace
The Ubud Royal Palace is the home of the Ubud royal family. It’s a prominent spot in Ubud, home to some notable Balinese cultural heritage. You can get a good feel for Balinese architecture when you pay a visit and enjoy its charming gardens. The entrance is free, and there is a daily dance performance outside in the evening. You can get tickets in the afternoon at the palace.
4. Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are a great example of the traditional Balinese irrigation system and their terraced garden layout. If you want to see the terraces at their best, you will want to come in March/April and September/October, before the harvest. As for the time of day, try to get there for sunrise or sunset. This is when they will be at their most breathtaking.
5. Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is a Hindu sea temple about four kilometers from Uluwatu, and 16 kilometers from Kuta Beach. It’s famous because it’s located on the edge of a cliff hanging right over the sea. It gives you a spectacular view of the ocean, especially so at sunset. There is a Kecak dance here every evening at 6 PM, performed by local men. Try to get to the temple to see it. It’s a fantastic display of Balinese culture and tradition.
6. Jimbaran Bay
Jimbaran Bay is a popular choice due to its amazing beaches and great seafood restaurants. It’s well worth a visit, especially if you are looking to enjoy a bit of sun and sea. If you want to enjoy an evening in one of the restaurants, you should arrive in the late afternoon to get a seat, order your meal, and be there for the sunset, which is going to be breathtaking. There is plenty of entertainment available as well, as there are usually dances and performances in most of the restaurants.
7. Kuta Beach
One of the best beaches in Bali is certainly Kuta Beach, a white sand beach that is the favorite spot of tourists from all over the world. It was renovated back in the 70’s, and it is truly a spot you have to hit before you leave Bali. The waters there are amazing, but other than sea fun, you should take some time to visit the Turtle Conservation efforts. You can also hit the water park, or go on a hike nearby if you want to get away from the beach.
8. Seminyak
If you are a fan of shopping, you should visit Seminyak. It is a very popular shopping spot, filled with busy streets and plenty of shops and stalls you will want to explore. You can find basically anything here. Swimwear and fashion, jewelry and homeware, art and books. There are two shopping malls in the area as well, but note that you will often find better items in the smaller stores. You can also bargain at the Flea Market and find some amazing Balinese items to take home with you.
Wrapping Up
Since you can easily find inexpensive flights to Bali, there is no excuse not to visit this stunning destination at least once in your lifetime. Write down your own list of must-see spots, and get exploring!
