BALI | Travel Guide & Tips

(Note: I first wrote this guide in 2017, and it has been refreshed in 2025). 

Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to visit this incredible Island of the Gods five different times and experience Bali in so many different ways - from romantic couples trips, to a fun getaway with friends, a solo adventure, and even a family holiday with a toddler. Each time has shown me a different side of this incredible island, and I fall a little more in love with it every visit.

Whether you're dreaming of sipping cocktails by the pool, exploring temples and waterfalls, shopping in cute boutiques or eating the best Nasi Goreng of your life (or all of the above) - Bali has something for everyone. 

This updated Bali travel guide is full of tips, first-timer advice, and all my favourite things to do, see and eat. Whether it's your first visit or your fifth, I hope it helps you plan a magical trip!

WHEN TO GO?

One of the first things to figure out when planning your Bali trip is when to go. The good news? There’s no bad time to visit - but some months are better than others depending on your priorities.

Bali’s dry season runs from May to October, and this is generally considered the best time for sunny days, low humidity and perfect beach weather. May, June and July are especially lovely, with warm days and minimal rain - ideal for exploring, surfing or just soaking up the sun.

That said, July and August are also the busiest (and most expensive) months. Accommodation prices often spike due to the school holidays and high demand - so if you're after fewer crowds and better deals, consider travelling in April, May, June or September.

I’ve actually visited in late November, technically the beginning of the wet season (November to April) - but the rain hadn’t kicked in yet. It was very humid though, so keep that in mind. On the upside, flights were super cheap!

Tip: If you don’t mind a bit of humidity or the chance of an afternoon downpour, travelling in shoulder season can be a sweet spot for both price and experience.

WHERE TO STAY?

Where you stay in Bali really depends on the kind of holiday you're after - beachy and buzzing, cultural and quiet, or a mix of everything. There are so many beautiful spots to choose from, but here are some of the most popular areas to help you figure out which one might suit you best:

Seminyak - Stylish and Central

If you’re after boutique shopping, beach clubs, spa days and sunset cocktails, Seminyak is a great base. It’s a little more upscale than some other areas and perfect for couples, friend groups or families wanting a touch of luxury. You’ll find great shopping, loads of great restaurants and cafés all within walking distance.

I’ve stayed at Blu-Zea Resort by Double-Six a few times and highly recommend it - it's more affordable than those dreamy beachfront villas but still has that relaxing resort vibe - with great pools (and pool bingo!), delicious food and friendly staff.

Ubud - Peaceful and Cultural

Ubud is Bali’s spiritual heart - surrounded by jungle, rice paddies, and that quiet kind of magic the island is so famous for. Over the years it’s grown in popularity and is definitely busier than it once was, but it’s still absolutely worth spending a few nights here to slow down and explore.

While it’s not the spot for nightlife, Ubud is ideal if you’re into art, nature, temples, yoga or spa retreats. There are some incredible hotels nestled right into the jungle, giving you that dreamy, peaceful Bali feeling.

My favourite place I’ve stayed in Ubud is Goya Boutique Resort - a hidden oasis with beautiful food, serene vibes, and the most incredible infinity pool looking out over the lush greenery. 

Nusa Dua - Quiet Beach Bliss

If you’re after calm, clean beaches and a more resort-style escape, Nusa Dua is your spot. This area is known for its luxurious hotels, manicured gardens, and peaceful atmosphere – perfect if you're craving some downtime away from the hustle. The beaches here are calm and swimmable, ideal for families or those just wanting to relax with a good book under a palm tree. While it’s less culturally immersive than other parts of Bali, Nusa Dua delivers on comfort, space, and pure beachside serenity.

Conrad Bali is on my Bucket List!

Kuta - Budget-Friendly and Busy

Kuta is Bali’s most well-known beach strip, and popular with backpackers and party-goers. It's busy, and packed with nightlife - so if that’s what you’re into, it could be the spot. There are lots of cheap hostels and budget resorts, plus a big waterpark (Waterbom Bali) that’s great if you’re travelling with kids. Personally, I didn’t enjoy Kuta as much - it’s a little too full-on for me - but everyone’s trip is different!

Canggu - Trendy and Super Busy

While I haven’t stayed in Canggu myself, it’s easily one of Bali’s most talked-about hotspots right now. This boho beach haven has become the go-to spot for surfers, yogis, creatives and digital nomads. 

Canggu has a relaxed, youthful vibe where you’ll find boutique gyms, yoga studios, trendy beach clubs and some of the most Instagrammable brunch spots on the island.

Just a heads up - with popularity comes traffic, and Canggu’s roads can get pretty hectic at peak times.

Holiday Inn Resort Bali Canggu by IHG looks amazing!

Tip: It’s super easy (and fun) to mix it up and stay at a few different places. You could start in Seminyak or Canggu, head up to Ubud for a few days of peace, and finish with a beach break in Nusa Dua.

TRANSPORT

From the airport

The easiest and safest way to get to your accommodation is by using official Bluebird Taxis (Taksi), even from the airport. Don’t do what I did on my first trip - I booked a hotel package that included “convenient” airport transfers… which ended up costing over $50 each way. I later found out a regular taxi would’ve cost just $10 AUD to Seminyak (a 20–30 minute drive depending on traffic). Lesson learned!

Tip: Head outside the terminal and look for the Bluebird Taxi stand or use the Bluebird app to book safely.

Official Bluebird taxis

Around town

You’ll never have trouble finding a taxi - drivers honk constantly to let you know they’re available (which is annoying… until you actually need one!).

• Always ask if they’ll use the meter. If they say no or try to offer a fixed price, just politely decline and move on.

• Never get in an unmarked or unofficial taxi, as you’ll almost always be overcharged.

• A 10–20 minute ride across town will typically cost you under $4 AUD, even in traffic.

Day trips

For exploring areas like Ubud, Uluwatu, or East Bali, the best option is to hire a private driver for the day. Many taxi drivers will offer this service when asked, or you can ask your hotel to recommend someone.

• You can arrange a full-day trip (7-10 hours) for just $30-$50 AUD, which is incredible value.

• Your driver will pick you up from your hotel, take you to as many spots as you like, wait at each one, and drop you off again.

• Not sure where to go? They’ll suggest popular scenic spots and hidden gems.

I’ve done this several times now and every experience has been amazing - kind, knowledgeable drivers who genuinely care about making your day special. We always tipped generously because their service really made the trips unforgettable.

If you’re travelling with a group or family, this option is especially cost-effective - and far more enjoyable than trying to navigate Bali’s traffic on your own.

Uluwatu

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

Having now been to Bali five times - on couple's trips, a friends getaway, solo, and most recently a family holiday - I've tried just about everything from the must-see temples to the beach clubs. Here are my absolute top five must-do experiences when you're in Bali if you've never done them before:

1. Visit the Temples

Bali is full of incredible temples - each one with its own vibe and story. Some of my all-time favourites:

• Uluwatu Temple
  Perched on a cliff in the south, this 11th-century temple is famous for its jaw-dropping ocean views and the sunset Kecak and Fire Dance show.
  Entrance: 40,000 IDR | Dance show: 100,000 IDR

• Pura Tirta Empul
  A stunning and sacred water temple in central Bali. Locals and tourists alike come here to bathe in holy water believed to have healing powers.
  Entrance: 15,000 IDR

• Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
  A mysterious 9th-century cave temple in Ubud that’s both historically and spiritually significant.
  Entrance: 15,000 IDR

• Tanah Lot
  One of Bali’s most iconic sea temples. The offshore setting and sunset views are seriously magical. Visit during low tide to walk right up to it.
  Entrance: 30,000 IDR

2.  Take a Day Trip to Ubud

If you don’t stay there, Ubud is a must for at least a day trip. It’s about an hour north and shows you a more authentic, spiritual side of Bali.

• Tegalalang Rice Terraces
  Insta-famous for a reason - these terraced paddies are breathtaking.
  Entrance: 10,000 IDR

• Monkey Forest
  A jungle sanctuary filled with cheeky monkeys. Buy bananas and take a photo - just guard your sunnies and snacks!
  Entrance: 40,000 IDR

• Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation
  Gorgeous views, free tastings of herbal teas and coffees, and the infamous Luwak coffee (aka “cat-poo coffee”) for 50,000 IDR if you're game.

• Tegenungan Waterfall
  A lush waterfall perfect for a scenic jungle dip.
  Entrance: 15,000 IDR

Bonus: While in Ubud, it’s also the perfect time to visit Goa Gajah and Tirta Empul temples.

3.  Do a Day Trip to Nusa Penida

This rugged island off Bali’s southeast coast makes for a spectacular day trip, especially to the famous:

• Kelingking Beach (aka the T-Rex head/whale - whatever you see!)
  That jaw-dropping cliffside view you’ve seen all over Instagram? This is it. The hike down is steep and not for the faint-hearted - but even the viewpoint alone is worth the trip.

• Swim with Manta Rays
  During the right season (April to October), you can snorkel with majestic manta rays in the waters around Nusa Penida. Most tours include this, plus several beach stops and a local lunch.

You can book a fast boat and guided tour package from Sanur. Expect to pay around $80–$120 AUD depending on the inclusions. It's totally worth it!

4. Enjoy the Beaches

Bali’s beaches cater to all vibes - whether you’re after a laid-back lounger, adrenaline rush, or delicious cocktails by the sea.

Lounging & Swimming

At Seminyak, Kuta and Legian beaches, rent a bean bag or lounger with an umbrella for around 50,000 IDR per day. Chill, swim, sip a cold drink - and watch the surfers as the sun sets.
Heads-up: there are a lot of street vendors, and bathrooms aren’t great, but the sunset atmosphere is unmatched.

Watersports

Head to Nusa Dua or Kuta for all the classic fun:

• Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boats, donut tubes - you name it.

• Try balitobali.com – you can bundle three activities (jet ski, banana boat, parasail) for just 300,000 IDR ($30 AUD).

• Keen to surf? prosurfschool.com at Kuta Beach is great for all levels.

Snorkelling tours are available too, though many full-day trips cost over $120 USD, so shop around.

Beach Clubs

Fancy a bougie sunset moment? Head to a beach club. My top picks:

• Potato Head Beach Club - Bali’s most famous sunset spot with an infinity pool, daybeds and DJs. Get there early!

• Ku De Ta - Great cocktails and a fine-dining restaurant.

• Double-Six Rooftop - Classy views with stylish vibes.

Expect cocktails to be around $15+ AUD, but the vibes and atmospheres are unforgettable.

5.  Treat Yourself

Bali is the place to indulge and refresh without blowing your budget.

Spa Day

Even if you don’t normally splurge, Bali’s spa prices make it hard to resist. My favourite is Bali Spa in Seminyak or Kuta.

• Full mani-pedi: $10 AUD

• 1-hour facial: $10 AUD

• Traditional Balinese massage: $15 AUD
  (At home, you'd easily spend $250+ for the same!)

Fresh nails done at Bali Spa

Hair & Beauty

Need a colour or trim? I went to Smart Salon & Spa in Legian/Kuta last time and was blown away by the quality.

• My blonde foils were flawless - the hairdresser was a perfectionist and it only cost me $80 AUD.

• They also do brows, lashes, makeup, massage… you could spend a whole pamper day here.

Tattoos

If you're considering ink, Bali’s tattoo scene is next-level. I got my sixth tattoo at Bali Tattoo Studio (Legian/Kuta) and they were award-winning, super hygienic, incredibly professional and talented. Oh, and it only cost me $50 AUD!

Tip: Book on your last day - you can’t swim with a fresh tattoo.

Loved my tattoo done by Bali Tattoo Studio

BONUS #6: Food & Shopping

Food

Eat like royalty on a backpacker budget!

• Local Warungs are the best - family-owned and authentic.
  My faves: Warung Padmasari (Legian) and Mades Warung (Seminyak and Kuta).

• Fancy something different? Honestly Bali has everything from vegan bowls to Indian curry to Aussie-style brunches.
  

• Some of my fave regular eats/cafe and restaurant visits include: Mad Pops for ice cream, Sisterfields and Kynd for brunch/lunch, Ku De Ta, Ginger Moon, Sarong and Bambu for a fancy dinner, Frankensteins for a few drinks and bit of fun!
  
  

Shopping

From bargain market finds to boutique fashion, the shopping is great in Bali!

• Barter at street stalls - start at a third of the offered price.

• High-end Aussie surf brands (like Roxy & Billabong) are way cheaper here.

• Homewares, antiques, art, jewellery… there’s so much unique shopping to be done.

One of my favourite stores in Seminyak - sells only skull things!

HANDY FACTS & TIPS

(Updated for 2025 - info based on my 5th visit!)

• Visa-free for Kiwis & Aussies - Good news! New Zealand and Australian passport holders don’t need a visa or have to pay the old $35 USD fee to enter Bali for stays under 30 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the day you plan to leave Indonesia.
  
  
• Currency - The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). A rough conversion to keep in mind: 10,000 IDR = approx. $1 NZD / AUD. Prices might look high with lots of zeroes, but Bali is still very affordable!
  
  
• Religion & Culture - Bali is deeply spiritual and follows Balinese Hinduism. You’ll notice beautifully arranged offerings (canang sari) placed on the ground daily, especially in front of shops, homes, and temples. Be mindful where you step!
  
  
• Water safety - Only drink bottled water (even when brushing your teeth). You can buy large 1.5L bottles for around 50 cents, so stock up at your accommodation and carry a smaller refillable bottle for day trips. Many hotels offer free water-filling stations.
  
  
• Pack a sarong - It’s a multi-use must-have in Bali. You’ll need one to enter temples (even the guys), and it doubles as a beach cover-up, towel, or makeshift seat for picnics and boat rides.
  
  
• Book a place with a pool - Bali is hot year-round with average temps around 32°C. A pool isn’t a luxury here - it’s a lifesaver. Daily dips are practically essential!

Having a place with a pool bar- even better! 

• Bali Belly is real - it happens to the best of us. Pack Imodium, Panadol, and hand sanitiser, just in case. Also keep tissues in your bag - some toilets don’t provide them!

• WiFi everywhere - Most cafes, beach clubs and restaurants offer free WiFi, which is great if you’re working remotely or want to upload that dreamy sunset to Instagram in real-time.

• Bali looks like a chicken. It really does. Google it. You’ll never unsee it.

• Scooter hire is super cheap - You’ll see scooters everywhere. While helmets aren’t legally required, it’s recommended to always wear one. Bali traffic can be wild, and safety first always!

• Drinks are cheap - Grab large Bintang beers or bottles of Coke from local minimarts for around $1.50 NZD. It’s way cheaper than hotel prices, and perfect if your accommodation has a balcony or outdoor area to relax.

• Yes, you can drink in public - it’s legal to drink on the beach or while walking the streets - just be respectful. Sunset beers on the sand are kind of a rite of passage here.

• The local Balinese people are incredibly warm and welcoming, but be prepared for some persistence from street vendors and sellers in public areas. It’s just part of how they make a living, so if you’re not interested, a polite “no thank you” or simply continuing to walk is usually enough.
  
  

• Tipping isn’t expected in Bali, but it’s a kind gesture if you’ve received great service. Wages are low, yet the Balinese are some of the most generous and hospitable people you’ll meet.
  
  
• Don’t leave without seeing a traditional Balinese dance performance. These beautifully intricate dances are steeped in history and spirituality, and often tied to religious rituals. Many venues offer a cultural show paired with dinner – a must-see experience during your stay.

• Make sure to take out the cash you think you'll need before arriving. While ATMs are available, I personally experienced credit card fraud after using one inside a convenience store - better to be safe than sorry!

• One thing that may surprise you is how common smoking is - both among locals (especially men) and tourists - as cigarettes are very cheap in Bali. It’s not unusual to see young boys smoking or children selling cigarettes, which can be quite confronting if you're used to smoke-free environments.

• Don’t leave without seeing a traditional Balinese dance performance. These beautifully intricate dances are steeped in history and spirituality, and often tied to religious rituals. Many venues offer a cultural show paired with dinner – a must-see experience during your stay.
  
  

Once Bali gets under your skin, don't be surprised to find yourself returning again and again. Some Australians holiday there annually; others never return back home (Bali is full of Australian ex-pats). 

There's something magical, ethereal and beautiful about Bali.
Be sure to get out beyond your hotel to find it!

Pin it! :)