I still remember stepping off the plane and feeling the humid air like a quiet welcome. I had a tight plan but left room for moments that surprised me.
In this guide I map out must-see attractions and smart travel gear that made my days easier. I share how I moved between hubs like Ubud, Canggu, and Uluwatu, and when I hired a private driver versus grabbing a Bluebird taxi.
Expect clear tips on timing crowds, packing essentials like an eSIM and reef-safe sunscreen, and the simple rules for respectful temple visits. If you want a fast plan or a relaxed multi-day route, I walk you through both with honest notes on waits, steep roads, and local ferry links like the one from Sanur to Nusa islands.
For a deeper itinerary and day-by-day suggestions, check my travel resource at this travel hub.
How I Plan a Bali Trip Right Now: Time of Year, Crowd Patterns, and Budget-Savvy Moves
When I plan a trip now, I start by pinning the weather windows and crowd rhythms for each area. That helps me choose the right times for sunsets, rice terraces, or waterfall hikes.
Best times for sunsets, terraces, and waterfalls
I aim for February–May when the terraces glow green and waterfalls run strong. I avoid peak holiday months and the busiest crowds in June–August and December.
- Sunsets: target Uluwatu, Balangan, and Tanah Lot midweek, arrive an hour early.
- Rice terraces: Tegalalang at sunrise; Jatiluwih later for spread-out views.
- Waterfalls: go early and pack anti-slip shoes, a microfiber towel, and a dry bag.
Getting around: scooter, Bluebird, private driver, and tours
I mix Bluebird taxis (metered), a scooter when licensed, and private driver days for long routes. If I only have a few days, one flexible tour saves time and energy.
| Transport | Typical prices | Gear |
|---|---|---|
| Scooter | $5–$8/day + gas | Helmet, intl. license, power bank |
| Bluebird taxi | Metered fares | Cash small bills, offline maps |
| Private driver / tour | $40–$70/day (varies) | Dry bag, eSIM, charged phone |
Before I go I install an eSIM, download offline maps, and pack a compact power bank. I also make sure my international license is valid so insurance covers scooter rides and I avoid surprises with prices or fines.
Ubud’s Cultural Heart: Rice Terraces, Temples, and the Monkey Forest
I wake before dawn in Ubud to catch the first light spilling over the rice terraces and to avoid the crowds.
Tegalalang is my go-for sunrise stop for warm light and quiet paths. I then head to Jatiluwih later for wider views and a calmer feel across an ancient subak irrigation system.
Tegalalang at sunrise vs. Jatiluwih UNESCO views
- I hit Tegalalang at sunrise for golden tones and easy photos, then switch to Jatiluwih for sweeping scale and fewer people.
- Bring a circular polarizer and small tripod to cut glare on the terraces and keep shots crisp.
Ubud Palace, Art Market, and Campuhan Ridge Walk
I pair the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and Ubud Palace in one morning, then wander the Art Market for crafts.
Campuhan Ridge Walk is best just after dawn. Shade is limited, so I wear airy shoes and sun sleeves while I walk.
What I pack for Ubud
- Lightweight rain jacket, anti-theft daypack, and a reusable water bottle with a filter—small things that save plastic.
- Quick-dry layers, a breathable hat, microfiber towel, and a compact power bank for photos and maps.
- I respect temple dress codes with a sarong and covered shoulders, and I keep valuables zipped away from curious monkeys.
- For culture-rich options, I join a cycling tour around villages to learn about the subak and daily life.
| Spot | When I go | Why I like it |
|---|---|---|
| Tegalalang | Sunrise | Golden light and intimate paths |
| Jatiluwih | Morning to midday | UNESCO landscape and broad views |
| Campuhan | Early morning | Easy ridge walk and town views |
For people-watching, I grab an early coffee near the market as stalls set up; it’s my favorite way to feel the place and the rhythm of daily life.
Best Places to Visit in Bali: Top Tourist Attractions
I narrow my must-see list quickly so I spend more time soaking up views and less time stuck in traffic.
Here’s a fast-hit at-a-glance list of headline spots I prioritize: Uluwatu’s cliffs and Kecak at sunset, Tanah Lot for coastal shrines, Jatiluwih and Tegalalang for rice landscapes, and the waterfall circuit north of Ubud.
Iconic highlights at a glance: beaches, cliffs, temples, waterfalls
- I pair Balangan and Padang Padang beaches with Uluwatu Temple for one dramatic day.
- For cliff views I carry compact binoculars; for waterfalls I use a waterproof action cam and floating grip.
- Start waterfall loops early to avoid queues and slippery paths.
- Always keep a sarong handy for any sudden temple stops.
Top tours I’d book to save time and skip planning
When I want efficiency, I book one guided tour that strings nearby highlights together. Pre-booking an airport transfer also saves hassle on arrival.
| Tour type | What it covers | Why I pick it |
|---|---|---|
| Airport transfer | Pickup, seamless arrival | Beats taxi lines and starts the trip stress-free |
| Bukit Peninsula full-day | Balangan, Padang Padang, Uluwatu + Kecak | Groups beaches and sunset for minimal backtracking |
| Private driver day | Custom stops like Jatiluwih, Yeh Hoo Waterfall, countryside lunch | Flexibility for weather and spontaneous detours |
If you want a ready-made shortlist and extra details, I also link a concise trip roundup that helped me plan several days: my quick island guide.
Uluwatu’s Cliffside Magic: Temples, Surf, and Sunset Views
The cliffs around Uluwatu have a way of focusing everything—sound, light, and crowds—into one perfect hour. I arrive late afternoon, walk the clifftop path, and lock my camera on the sweeping views before the light slips.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu, Kecak dance, and monkey etiquette
I time Pura Luhur Uluwatu for late afternoon and stay for the Kecak performance that meets the sunset. I keep loose items zipped—monkeys here are bold—and wear a sarong near temple zones to respect local culture.
Beach hopping on the Bukit and sunset spots
My beach loop pairs Padang Padang’s cove with Balangan’s wide sand and a cliff viewpoint. For sundowners I head to Single Fin; Karang Boma Cliff gives dramatic dusk photos, but I stay well back from edges and bring a headlamp for the return walk.
Micro packing list and timing tips
- Reef-safe sunscreen, UV rash guard, and water shoes for rocky entries.
- Compact binoculars or a long lens for surfer line-ups at the main break.
- Pre-download maps and prebook a ride—post-sunset traffic builds fast, so make sure your ride back is sorted.
| When | Why | My tip |
|---|---|---|
| Late afternoon | Cooler light, Kecak timing | Arrive early for a good platform spot |
| Sunset | Sweeping views | Secure belongings from monkeys |
| Post-sunset | Return travel | Prebook driver or set Bluebird pickup point |
Canggu Vibes: Surf, Cafes, Street Art, and Beach Clubs
I start my Canggu mornings with a strong coffee and a loose plan for the day. The area hums with cafes, murals, and laid‑back surf energy.
After brunch I often book a beginner lesson at Echo or Batu Bolong. A rash guard and zinc stick keep the sun and board friction in check.
My half‑day routine is compact and relaxed. I can fit surf, street art, and a sunset dash to Tanah Lot without feeling rushed.
- Start: coffee and brunch near Batu Bolong; check lesson slots and tide times.
- Midday: surf lesson at Echo or Batu Bolong; bring a compact towel, phone lanyard, and small dry bag.
- Afternoon: stroll side streets for street art when walls are shaded for photos.
- Sunset: leave 60–90 minutes early for Tanah Lot golden‑hour photos; prebook a quick tour or a return ride if you prefer not to drive.
| Spot | Why go | My tip |
|---|---|---|
| Finn’s / The Lawn | Beach club vibe and pools | Rotate visits—arrive before late afternoon crowds |
| Echo / Batu Bolong | Beginner surf breaks | Book a lesson and wear a rash guard |
| Tanah Lot | Golden‑hour coastal views | Head out early to beat traffic and secure a viewing spot |
Sanur’s Easygoing Side: Sunrises, Night Market, and Island Gateways
On calm mornings I walk Sanur’s beachfront, letting the east-coast glow set the tone for the day. The flat path is perfect for a slow pace and a simple reset before more active days elsewhere.
I often save early mornings for a beachfront cafe breakfast. If I’m island-hopping, I leave extra time for the ferry terminal and buy tickets early. Sanur is the main ferry hub for Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, so schedules fill fast on busy weekends.
Pasar Malam Sindu eats and early-morning beach strolls
At night I wander Pasar Malam Sindu for street food. I try saté skewers and grilled corn; a popular vendor will sell five skewers for about 20k IDR (~$2). I keep small cash for snacks and porters and enjoy the casual local culture.
Ferry hub for day trips to nearby islands
For a ferry day I pack a dry bag, motion-sickness bands, and label my luggage. I board early, hand the porter small bills, and double-check return times the day before. Tourists often leave before dawn to catch the first boats and avoid crowds.
| Time | What I do | My tip |
|---|---|---|
| Sunrise | Beach walk and cafe breakfast | Wear light layers and a windbreaker for breezy mornings |
| Ferry time | Ticket, dry bag, labeled bag | Arrive 30–45 min early and check sea conditions |
| Evening | Pasar Malam Sindu street food | Carry small bills; expect wallet-friendly prices |
| Slow day | Bike ride and spa | Plan a relaxed schedule to enjoy Sanur’s gentle pace |
Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Ceningan: Laid-Back Islands with Big Views
A short boat ride from Sanur drops me onto a small world of clifftop panoramas and sleepy lanes. I plan the day around light: Dream Beach for a midday swim and Devil’s Tears for the late‑afternoon drama.
Dream Beach, Devil’s Tears, and Panorama Point
Dream Beach is perfect for a quick dip and sandy photos. Devil’s Tears is best near sunset; I stay well back from the edge because rogue waves can surprise you.
Panorama Point gives classic island views and I use a polarized filter to cut glare for cleaner shots.
How I get around: scooter tips and bridge crossing
The Yellow Bridge links Lembongan and Ceningan. If I rent a scooter I go slow, yield to pedestrians, and avoid windy nights. For a mellow experience I hire a local driver or join a short tour instead.
- Bring a dry bag and reef‑safe sunscreen.
- Water shoes, mask/snorkel, compact first‑aid with blister plasters.
- Camera protection: travel tripod, ND filter, and a phone lanyard.
| When | Spot | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Midday | Dream Beach | Swim and photos; watch currents |
| Late afternoon | Devil’s Tears | Stay back from blowholes; use ND for waves |
| Golden hour | Panorama Point | Polarizer for clearer water views |
Signal is patchy, so I use an eSIM and offline maps. My favorite way to end the island day is a cold drink on Ceningan, then a slow ride back over the bridge under the stars.
Nusa Penida’s Rugged Drama: Kelingking, Crystal Bay, and Diamond Beach
Nusa Penida feels like a wilder sibling to Bali, where cliffs drop hard and quiet coves hide between rocks. I plan slow days here so each stop feels like part of the trip, not a checklist.
What to see: Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Atuh & Diamond
I split my time so the west and east get equal attention. Kelingking, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong make a dramatic morning loop. Atuh and Diamond reward an early sunrise visit for empty views and softer light.
Snorkeling notes: Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay conditions
Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay offer the clearest water, but currents change fast. I always check local reports, go with a vetted operator, and bring my own mask and rash guard for comfort and sun protection.
Road reality and why I stay at least three days
Roads are often rough and slow. I hire a driver unless I’m confident on uneven scooter tracks. Staying three days gives buffer time for weather, easier pacing, and actual downtime between viewpoints.
- Day 1 — West loop: Kelingking, Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong at relaxed pace.
- Day 2 — Snorkel day: Crystal Bay or Gamat with a morning trip and gear checks.
- Day 3 — East coast: Atuh and Diamond Beach at sunrise, then a calm afternoon.
Gear I swear by
| Item | Why I bring it | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Travel tripod | Stable sunset and tide-pool shots | Padded cube in a dry bag |
| Action camera | Rough trails and snorkeling footage | Use a wrist or chest mount |
| Grippy hiking sandals | Steep, dusty cliff paths | Good tread and toe protection |
I carry extra water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit. Evenings are simple—warung dinners and stargazing—so the rugged island experience feels complete, not rushed.
Tanah Lot to Temple Trails: Iconic Sea Shrines and Coastal Sunsets
Golden hour at the coastline always sharpens my plans: I move slower, scout angles, and save space for surprises. Tanah Lot sits offshore and silhouettes beautifully at golden hour, so I build time into my evening for calm scouting before the rush.
When I go to avoid the biggest crowds
I aim for weekdays and arrive 60–90 minutes before sunset. That window gives me a quiet approach and room to test compositions before the crowds peak.
If I want a two-temple day, I start earlier inland and finish at Tanah Lot for the final light. When driving is a hassle, I book a short tour that includes a coastal dinner stop.
Photo tips and respectful dress code
For photos I use a light travel tripod for low light and quick handheld mid-tele shots to compress waves against the rock. I wipe lenses often with a cloth because sea spray can fog glass fast.
Dress modestly: I keep a sarong ready, cover my shoulders, and give space during ceremonies—temples are active places of worship. I also wear grippy sandals for wet stones and bring a headlamp for the walk back after dusk.
| Timing | Gear | My tip |
|---|---|---|
| 60–90 min before sunset | Light tripod, lens cloth | Scout a higher angle for clean foreground |
| Midweek evenings | Grippy sandals, sarong | Arrive early to avoid peak crowds |
| Post-sunset +15 min | Headlamp, small towel | Stay for lingering color; watch tide lines |
Mount Batur Sunrise Hike: Earning That Volcanic View
I wake before dawn, step into a quiet hotel lobby, and tuck my gear into a small daypack while the driver waits. A 2–3 am pickup is normal, so I try to nap on the ride and save energy for the climb.
What the pre-dawn climb feels like and summit sights
The trail starts under stars and a steady headlamp beam. Footing is volcanic gravel in places, so the pace is steady rather than fast. At the top, sunrise reveals Lake Batur and, on clear mornings, Mount Agung on the horizon—those views are the payoff for the early alarm.
Essential hiking kit and small rituals
I pack light layers, a reliable headlamp, trekking shoes with good grip, and a lightweight rain shell. I also bring 1–1.5 liters of water, a protein-rich snack, a small sit pad, and gloves for the windy summit.
- I set alarms for the pickup and tuck a mini tripod in my pack for low-light shots.
- I stretch calves before we start and swap into dry socks back at the car.
- Carry cash for a warm drink near the top and a tip for the guide.
| Item | Why | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Headlamp | Safe footing pre-dawn | Bring spare batteries |
| Trekking shoes | Grip on loose gravel | Test them on short hikes first |
| Water + snack | Fuel for the climb | 1–1.5 liters and a protein bar |
Most tours include transport and a guide, so make sure you book with a reputable operator. The climb is short but intense; descending in the dark is easier with local knowledge. For me, the early rise and quiet summit are the highlight of the trip and a memorable experience across a few full days on the island.
Pura Lempuyang’s “Gates of Heaven”: What No One Tells You
I aimed for first light and found the place works best when you plan for the queue, not against it.
Pura Lempuyang sits on a steep road now open to private vehicles and scooters. At the entrance I make a small donation, accept a sarong if needed, and get a queue number for the gate photo. Staff call numbers by megaphone and an attendant takes shots; a small tip for the attendant is polite and appreciated.
Waits vary. Roughly 50 numbers are called per hour, so if you arrive a couple hours after opening you can face up to three hours. I usually get my number early, then head to nearby Tirta Gangga or the small cafe with valley views and return when my number is announced.
How the numbering system works
- Arrive at the plaza and donate at the gate office.
- Receive a sarong (if you need one) and a printed queue number.
- Staff call numbers via megaphone; attendants guide small groups to the gate for photos.
- Expect about 50 numbers processed each hour; plan side trips if your wait is long.
Timing and my wait strategy
- Arrive at opening to cut wait time.
- Get your number, then visit Tirta Gangga or café; return 20–30 minutes before your number is likely called.
- If short on time, book a private tour that handles timing and transport.
Scooter safety on the steep ascent and descent
I ride a well‑maintained scooter with strong brakes and test them before I go up. The descent needs low gear and steady braking—keep distance from other vehicles and avoid sudden stops.
| Topic | Practical note | My tip |
|---|---|---|
| Queue speed | ~50 numbers per hour | Get number early; plan a side trip |
| Sarong & donation | Donation-based; sarongs often provided | Bring small bills for donation and tips |
| Scooter access | Road steep; open to private vehicles | Check brakes; descend in low gear |
| Photo timing | Mount Agung may be visible | Use polarizer and lens cloth for clearer sky |
Waterfalls Near Ubud and the North: Chasing Falls Without the Crowds
I chase waterfalls on early starts so the paths are empty and the light is soft in the gorges. That way I get clean photos, quieter pools, and a calmer way to enjoy the day.
Sekumpul, Tukad Cepung, and Banyumala basics
Sekumpul rewards the hike: multiple cascades and a descent that feels worth every step. I aim to arrive before larger tour groups and let the falls breathe.
Tukad Cepung sits inside a canyon where sunbeams can hit the water—timing is everything. I time my visit for the beam window and move slowly through shallow streams.
Banyumala has twin falls and a natural pool that’s perfect for a quick swim. I bring a dry bag and keep electronics safe from spray.
Waterfall-ready packing and a starter loop
- Microfiber towel, anti-slip water shoes, and a rain cover for cameras.
- Electrolyte tabs, a snack, extra shirt, and a trekking pole for slippery sections.
- I often book a private driver; the loop (Ubud→Sekumpul→Banyumala→Tukad Cepung) can run 90–180 minutes drive total depending on roads.
- For photos I use a lens cloth, a small tripod for cave beams, and a rain cover near heavy mist.
| Waterfall | Best time | Drive from Ubud | My tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sekumpul | Early morning | 90–120 min | Arrive before tour vans; the hike to the base is steep |
| Tukad Cepung | Mid-morning (beam window) | 60–90 min | Wear water shoes; watch for slippery rocks |
| Banyumala | Morning | 75–110 min | Good for a swim; keep electronics in a dry bag |
Eat, Shop, and Spa: How I Indulge Between Sightseeing
When sightseeing piles up, I press pause with a market stroll, a cooking class, and a spa afternoon. I treat these slow moments as part of the trip strategy and pack light for them.
Cooking classes, Jimbaran seafood, and Ubud wellness days
I book an Ubud cooking class that includes a market visit so I learn spice pastes and local staples. Learning a sambal and a rendang base makes recipes I can cook at home.
For sunset dinners, Jimbaran seafood on the sand is my pick: fresh fish, prawns, and chilled coconuts by candlelight. Between big days I schedule a wellness day—yoga, a long massage, and light dinner.
Market finds and souvenirs worth the suitcase space
People here are warm; I shop small stands in Canggu and Ubud for textiles and snacks that tell local culture stories. I keep a short packing list so gifts fit my bag.
- Spices (ground blends), batik scarves, lightweight sarongs
- Handmade jewelry and sealed pantry treats
- Packable duffel for overflow
| Experience | Where | My tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking class | Ubud markets + kitchen | Book a market-inclusive session |
| Seafood dinner | Jimbaran beach | Reserve a sunset table |
| Spa day | Karsa Spa (Ubud), Bodyworks (Seminyak) | Pair massage with a light yoga class |
Smart Travel Accessories for Bali That Elevate the Whole Trip
Before I pack my suitcase I make a short gear checklist that keeps the trip light and flexible. A few reliable items save time and reduce stress on arrival.
Connectivity & navigation
- Load an eSIM (Airalo is a simple option) before landing and download offline maps.
- Carry a 10,000–20,000 mAh power bank and a short braided USB cable for fast top-ups.
- Pack a universal adapter with surge protection and a compact multi-port charger.
Beach, boat, and photo kit
- Bring a fitted snorkel set, quick-dry towel, dry bag, and a packable sun umbrella for ferry days from Sanur.
- Wear a UPF rash guard and reef-safe sunscreen to protect skin and coral.
- For photos, an action cam with floaty grip and a mini tripod handle low-light temple and waterfall shots.
Scooter and safety essentials
- Carry your international license for insurance, a certified helmet, airy gloves, and clear/amber lenses for night rides.
- Add a compact headlamp, small first-aid kit, electrolytes, anti-chafe balm, lockable daypack, and a money belt for busy markets.
- Packing cubes and a fold-flat laundry bag keep rooms tidy so I spend more time outside exploring.
| Need | Example | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Airalo eSIM + offline maps | Easy setup; avoid SIM swaps |
| Power | 10,000–20,000 mAh bank + multi-port charger | Charges phone, camera, action cam |
| Boat/Beach | Dry bag + snorkel set | Protects gear; better comfort on choppy seas |
This guide helps me pack smarter for each location and area I plan to explore. With these items I feel ready for sun, scooter rides, and late‑night temple walks without extra fuss on the road.
Your Perfect Bali Shortlist, My Way
A compact shortlist helps me get the most out of short trips without overpacking my schedule. If I have only three days I stay local: Day 1 cliff and surf time at Uluwatu with sunset, Day 2 Ubud’s rice terraces, Monkey Forest, and palace, Day 3 a waterfall loop or a Tanah Lot golden‑hour visit.
With five to seven days I add a night in Ubud and an island day—Nusa Penida for Kelingking and Crystal Bay or the calmer Lembongan/Ceningan pair for Dream Beach and Devil’s Tears.
My temple picks are clear: Uluwatu for drama, Tanah Lot for silhouette, and Pura Lempuyang if I’m patient with the number system and want that Mount Agung view. For terraces, Jatiluwih gives space and calm; Tegalalang shines at sunrise with the right angle.
I split beach time between the Bukit coves and Sanur’s gentler coast, always packing extra sun protection. I plan one day to connect with nature — a waterfall swim, a ridge walk, or Mount Batur at sunrise — and I dodge crowds by going early or late and using markets or cafes mid‑day.
Quick gear check: eSIM active, power bank charged, sarong packed, water shoes, and a small first‑aid kit. For more destination ideas and practical routes, see this Bali destinations guide: Bali destinations.
