The Extraordinary Bali travel guide

The island of Bali is steeped in myth, mysticism, and the dreams of wanderers who have made the pilgrimage here for centuries. Part of the Indonesian archipelago, lush, windswept Bali is hugged by Lombok and Java in the Coral Triangle, a biodiverse marine region known as the “Amazon of the Seas.” The island’s incredible diversity of landscapes and culture, idyllic beaches, outdoor escapes, and artistic traditions have made travel to Bali one of the most beloved adventures in Southeast Asia. 

Bali is also known for its deep Hindu spiritual traditions and enchanting sea temples, earning it the moniker the “Island of the Gods”. But the island’s Edenic scenery and dreamy hideaways and are their own kind of paradise. 

Bali’s striking landscapes fuel the wanderlust of travelers from around the globe. Sweeping, emerald-green rice terraces, dense jungle, secluded stretches of platinum beach, rugged cliffsides, and fog-wreathed volcano peaks are fodder for drool-inducing travel daydreams. This natural beauty is the canvas for an array of outdoor adventures, including hiking, canyoning, white-water rafting, snorkeling, and of course, surfing—the island is a Mecca for pros and beginners alike.  

Just as diverse as its landscapes, travel to Bali is also marked by multifaceted cultural and spiritual traditions. Visit sacred seaside Hindu temples guided by a local priest, and head into the island’s lush interior to uncover the art and artisan practices that have drawn creatives here for decades. Uncover traditional Balinese architecture at the many temples that dot the island or at one of the design-forward hotels that you’ll retreat to at the end of the day, from suites set in a jungle canopy to private oceanside villas. 

From top to bottom, the island delivers on laid-back beach days, swims through shimmering, clear water, and sultry sunsets. But a lively and sophisticated restaurant and nightlife scene is also on the menu. 

Although Bali is undeniably Indonesia’s most popular destination and there are corners that have become very developed, the island is anything but one-dimensional—you just have to know where to look. You could spend two weeks exploring Bali’s distinct regions and still feel that you’ve only scratched the surface. We’ll help you discover well-trodden but unmissable spots from an unexpected perspective and head far off the beaten path to Bali’s hidden, remote corners that few visit. 

Although the island boasts a bounty of postcard-worthy, white-sand beaches, Bali is so much more than your typical beach destination. Explore ancient temples perched on cliffs above the ocean, surf along rugged, quiet beaches, hike to sacred springs tucked away in the jungle, and snorkel over shipwrecks. The interior of the island has long been a haven for artists and a crucible of creativity in the country, known as much for its picturesque rice terraces as its artistic traditions. Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into this world, meeting master artists, witnessing their creative processes, and engaging in conversations about their work.  

The north and east of Bali is far less traveled, offering a wild, natural paradise of quiet, forested hills, tranquil lakes, wildlife-rich national parks, and small villages where life hasn’t changed much over the last century. Each side of the island offers a captivatingly different landscape and experience, making Bali one of Indonesia’s most dynamic destinations that appeals to a wide range of travelers, from families to couples and groups of friends. 

South Bali 

Bali’s southern reaches put sophisticated beach resorts and some of Indonesia’s best restaurants and cocktail bars at your fingertips. But we’ll also introduce you to laid-back oceanside villas away from the buzz. Head just north of Seminyak to explore Tanah Lot, one of Bali’s seven sacred sea temples, then while away the afternoon under the shade of a palm tree. In the Bukit Peninsula, explore rolling green hills, windswept cliffsides, and hidden beaches, as well as the Hindu temple of Uluwatu, where you’ll have the chance to witness a traditional kecak dance performance. Unwind in Jimbaran Bay, savoring the fresh seafood and farm-to-table food scene of this tranquil region. 

Central Bali 

Head into the interior of Bali to discover the epicenter of its artistic traditions, woven through a landscape of sweeping green rice terraces and lush, misty jungle. Ubud has long drawn artists, musicians, and chefs and you’ll get an expert look at its creative scene. With a local musician as your guide, meet master artists and musicians in their studios, witnessing their creative processes and engaging in conversations about their work. Go on hikes and bike rides through peaceful bamboo forests and alongside rice terraces, and retreat to a magical luxury hideaway in the treetops. In the evenings, relish fresh, organic fare at restaurants with Michelin-star chefs at the helm, and then gaze up at the dark countryside night sky. 

Northern Bali  

The north of the island beckons travelers with an appetite for adventure. In the misty highlands of Munduk, hop on a mountain bike and breeze past rice-terrace views and through small villages, then hike to a waterfall and take a refreshing dip. On another day, embark on a canyoning adventure along a water trail that will have you rappelling down volcanic gorges and sliding through chutes. You’ll also spend time discovering the coffee plantations that dot this lush, fertile region, stopping to savor a hot, fresh cup. Heading even farther north, check into a dreamy oceanside villa surrounded by woodland, and spend a day snorkeling off of Menjangan Island, swimming over technicolor coral reefs. It’s not all adrenaline-fueled fun, though. The north is also home to beautiful temples, which you’ll visit along the way, including a renowned water temple that serves as an important pilgrimage site for Hindu Balinese.  

Eastern Bali 

East Bali is all about serenity. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of what the island might have felt like before the arrival of mass tourism. Life slows down in small rural villages and across rugged, secluded beaches. In the bucolic Sidemen Valley, visit farms and plantations that produce the ingredients that anchor Balinese culinary traditions. Taste regional flavors and stop to meet the local farmers and make a few special dishes unique to the area. In the pre-dawn darkness the next day, hike up Mount Batur and wait in wonder as the dramatic view materializes in the golden morning light.  

From Amankila, a secluded hillside retreat, you’ll set off on boating adventures along the tranquil eastern coast and explore Balinese spiritual and wellness traditions. In Karangasem, hide away in a jaw-dropping property perched above a remote, black-sand beach with spacious, light-flooded villas built by master Sumatran craftsmen. East Bali is a wonderful region to travel to as a family, too, with safe backroads for cycling, river rafting, quiet beaches, and kid-friendly activities like cultural treasure hunts.  

Western Bali  

Out west, spiritual traditions, wellness resorts, and nourishing experiences define your experience. In Tabanan, take part in a purification ritual known as melukat as you wade into a pool at the foot of a cascading waterfall, and learn about the Tri-Hita Karana Balinese philosophy, the harmony of parahyangan (religion & culture), palemahan (nature), and pawongan (individual & community). Visit Tanah Lot, a Hindu sea temple perched on a rocky outcropping out in the ocean, and marvel at its inner sanctum on an exclusive tour led by a Balinese priest. Explore the foothills of Mount Batukaru, visit cacao and coffee plantations, and savor leisurely jungle picnics. End your time in the region at Lost Lindenberg, an oceanside retreat surrounded by lush forest in Pekutatan, a region known for its surfing, lava sand beaches, and palm-studded jungles.  

Whatever your mood or travel style, you’ll be staying at some of the best hotels in Bali when we design your bespoke trip. The island is renowned for design-forward resorts, whether you’re after modern, ultra-luxury, or a romantic, mystical retreat in the jungle. Here are some of our favorites. 

Five-star ultraluxury

Soori Bali | If clean, minimalist design and monochromatic, premium linens are your hotel love language, you’ll love this stunning modern retreat on the edge of the ocean. The serene villas feature private plunge pools that offer breathtaking views of terraced rice fields, forest, and the ocean, stretching as far as the eye can see.

Amankila | Aman properties are known for their enchanting locales that offer an atmospheric sense of place, and Amankila on Bali’s east coast is no exception. Thatched-roof suites are decorated with natural materials and colors and open onto breezy, sun-drenched stone patios with sweeping views of the Lombok Strait and Mount Agung.

Mandapa, A Ritz Carlton Reserve | This wellness oasis is nestled deep in Ubud’s emerald jungle. In addition to gorgeous suites and pool villas designed to echo a traditional Balinese village, the resort has a focus on sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine and tailored programs centered on well-being, spirituality, and health for a sublime restorative experience.

Bvlgari Resort Bali |If The White Lotus came to Indonesia, it would be set at Bvlgari Resort Bali. Perched atop a limestone cliff, this ultra-luxe escape boasts endless views of the blue ocean right from your private turquoise villa pool, surrounded by tropical gardens. The service and design of each villa doesn’t overlook a single detail for the ultimate sophisticated stay.

Unique, experiential stays

Capella Ubud | If Bali conjures images of mystical jungles and waterfall blessings, check in to Capella Ubud. Secluded tented suites are perched in the treetops and feature bold design with hand-carved furniture and sumptuous fabrics that feel like a Balinese fever dream.

Oracle boat | What better way to see the archipelago of Indonesia than by weaving through its islands on a private charter yacht? Cruise around Komodo Island in style on this stately vessel. The design is inspired by traditional Indonesian ships, furnished with teak and ironwood and crafted by local artisans and woodworkers.

Kumai boat | Sail deep into the Kalimantan (Borneo) rainforest aboard a traditional klotok boat, weaving down serpentine rivers hemmed by dense jungle. Tanjung Puting National Park is one of Indonesia’s last few wildernesses, and a region few travelers see. You’ll spot incredible wildlife, including the region’s endemic orangutans, right from the boat’s sun-warmed deck.

Architectural jaw-droppers

Villa Campuhan | Check into one of the spacious, light-flooded private villas at Villa Campuhan and you’ll not only be staying in one of Bali’s most pristine, secluded regions but you’ll immerse yourself in Balinese culture and architecture. Each villa boasts a unique design where soaring ceilings shelter furniture and decor handcrafted by Sumatran craftsmen, all surrounded by ocean views, green rice paddies, and farther afield, the region’s renowned water palaces.

Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape | This romantic jungle escape comes with views of emerald forest, cast against Bali’s mist-wreathed seven peaks from each of its 16 villas or the turquoise infinity pool. The boutique resort comes with all the creature comforts, but the real luxury is the immersion in Balinese nature, from outdoor soaker tubs with views of fireflies flitting through the forest at dusk to the warm breeze that sweeps through the interiors thanks to an open-air design.

Off-the-beaten-path hideaways

Lost Lindenberg | Retreat to a dreamy, design-forward property in the forest along a forgotten coast. At Lost Lindenberg, wake up to views of the jungle or ocean and spend your days surfing one of Bali’s longest waves under the guidance of some of the island’s best surf coaches.

Munduk Moding Plantation | In the highlands of north Bali, leave the crowds behind and hide away in nature at Munduk Moding. From this forested property with just 37 suites and villas cloaked in living roofs, set out on some of the most exhilarating outdoor adventures that Bali has to offer, from canyoning through caves and ravines, downhill mountain biking, and canoeing across quiet, glassy lakes.

Wapa di Ume Sidemen | This hillside hideaway offers panoramic views of the beautiful Sidemen Valley in eastern Bali. Framed by green hills and rice terraces and towering Mount Agung in the distance, this nature-inspired lodge is way off the tourist circuit.

Plataran Menjangan | Plataran Menjangan is tucked away within West Bali National Park, surrounded by pristine forest, mangroves, and gin-clear waters. The design of the villas here takes a cue from the surrounding woodlands, integrating natural materials and colors and leafy terraces. Serene, sun-dappled patios and an infinity pool encourage rest and relaxation.

The dry season, from May to September, is considered the best time to travel to Bali when you’ll enjoy sunny skies and lower humidity, and make the most of outdoor activities. 

The wet season generally stretches from October to April across much of Indonesia, including Bali, with November to February seeing the heaviest rainfall. During this time, spells of rain limit the enjoyment of outdoor activities and touring. For this reason, our Indonesia destination experts strongly discourage travel between November and February.  

The rural roads and city traffic of Bali can be an adventure in itself. That’s why we take the guesswork out of getting from A to B with smooth, private car transfers. The island can look deceptively small on a map but traveling from one side to the other along winding coastal routes, through congested city centers, and up steep mountain roads can be slow.

• From south Bali (Uluwatu) to north Bali (Pemuteran), expect around a five-to-six-hour drive, depending on traffic.
• Traveling east to west, from places such Tabanan to Amed, travel time is slightly shorter.

To make the most of your time on the island, we’ve mapped the most scenic yet efficient routes.