Bali Travel Guide
Contents
- Bali — An Island of Ritual, Nature & Contrast
- Bali and Its Antipode
- The Island
- Top Things to Do in Bali
- Do and See
- Dining in Bali
- Cafés in Bali
- Bars & Nightlife
- Shopping
- Tourist Information
Bali — An Island of Ritual, Nature & Contrast
Bali is one of the world’s most distinctive islands, defined by a deep spiritual culture, dramatic landscapes, and a way of life shaped by ritual and community. Although part of Indonesia, Bali’s Hindu traditions, temple architecture, and ceremonial rhythms set it apart from the rest of the archipelago.
The island balances tourism with daily life in a way few destinations manage. Surf beaches, rice terraces, volcanoes, and coral reefs coexist with vibrant towns and quiet villages, creating an environment where nature and culture are inseparable.
Bali and Its Antipode
Every place on Earth has an antipode — the point directly opposite it on the globe, connected by a straight line passing through the Earth’s core.
Bali’s antipode lies deep in the Atlantic Ocean, far from any major landmass. This land-to-ocean antipode reflects Bali’s geographic position within global ocean systems and reinforces the island’s identity as a place defined by water, climate, and movement.
The contrast between a densely inhabited island rich in ritual and an empty ocean on the far side of the planet highlights Bali’s cultural uniqueness within a global geographic framework.
The Island
Most visitors first arrive in southern Bali, where popular beach destinations such as Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua offer resorts, nightlife, and dining. Denpasar, the island’s capital, serves as the administrative and commercial centre.
Moving inland reveals a different Bali. Ubud sits among rice terraces and forested hills and is widely regarded as the island’s artistic and cultural heart. Further afield, quieter coastal villages, volcanic landscapes, and protected national parks define Bali’s diverse geography.
Top Things to Do in Bali
Seminyak
A stylish beach resort area known for its shopping, dining, and upscale nightlife.
Water Sport Activities
Banana boating, parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are widely available along Bali’s southern coast.
Waterbom Bali
A large water park in Kuta offering slides, pools, and tropical landscaping.
Bali Safari & Marine Park
A wildlife park showcasing Indonesian and international animal species in naturalistic settings.
Tirta Gangga
A former royal water palace in eastern Bali, surrounded by rice fields and fountains.
Yoga in Ubud
Ubud is a global centre for yoga, meditation, and wellness retreats.
Surfing in Bali
One of the world’s most renowned surf destinations, suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers.
Traditional Music & Dance
Balinese dance, gamelan music, and shadow puppet performances are held regularly across the island.
Bali Bird Park
A wildlife park featuring hundreds of bird species from Indonesia and beyond.
Taman Werdhi Budaya Art Centre
A cultural complex hosting performances and the annual Bali Arts Festival.
Cooking Classes
Hands-on experiences introducing Balinese cuisine through market visits and traditional cooking.
Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation
A coffee plantation offering tastings and insights into traditional coffee production.
Do and See
West Bali National Park
A protected area offering rainforest, coral reefs, and wildlife.
Ubud
The island’s artistic centre, known for galleries, temples, and craft markets.
Quiet Northern Beaches
Less-developed coastal areas offering calmer surroundings and fewer crowds.
Volcanic Landscapes
Eastern Bali features volcanoes and dramatic terrain shaped by geological activity.
Dining in Bali
Bali’s food scene blends traditional Indonesian flavours with international influences. From simple warungs to refined beachside restaurants, dining reflects the island’s agricultural abundance and cultural diversity.
- Chez Gado Gado
- Ju-Ma-Na
- Melting Wok Warung
- Pearl Restaurant Bali
- Bali Asli
- Taco Casa
- Sea Circus
Cafés in Bali
Coffee culture is well developed in Bali, including traditional Indonesian coffee and specialty cafés across tourist areas.
- The Kopi Pot
- Gusto Gelato & Caffè
- Tutmak Warung
- Rumours
- Ku De Ta
Bars & Nightlife
Bali’s nightlife ranges from beach clubs and sunset bars to dance clubs in resort areas such as Kuta and Seminyak.
- Komune Resort & Beach Club
- Rock Bar
- Potato Head Beach Club
- Woobar
- Ku De Ta
Shopping
Shopping in Bali focuses on handicrafts, art, textiles, and jewellery, alongside modern shopping centres.
- Sukawati Art Market
- Ubud Traditional Art Market
- Kuta Square
- Pasar Badung
- Pasar Kumbasari
- Beachwalk Shopping Center
- Celuk Village
- Bali Collection
Tourist Information
Bali is served by Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), located approximately 13 kilometres from Denpasar.
Public transport is limited; taxis and private drivers are the most common means of travel for visitors.
Electricity in Bali operates on both 110V and 220V systems at 50Hz. Indonesia’s country calling code is +62.
