Bali for Beginners: Top 20 Things to Do in Bali

Okay, okay. I gettit. The whole “generic-list-of-things-to-do-in-Bali” article has been saturating online travel forums for so long now, that every run-of-the-mill suggestion has probably become ingrained in your psyche. Like the offerings on your local take-out menu. Or every episode of The Simpsons.

Alas! I present you with yet another list of Bali-themed activities, aimed at those who have yet to venture to the popular Indonesian island, and who may need a little convincing (thanks, media) that it truly is a top-notch holiday destination.

Hopefully the below suggestions are insightful; or, at the very least, a way to pass your time at work.

And for those of you who already know your nasi gorengs from your nasi campurs? Congratulations! You can just sit back and revel in your freakishly insane knowledge.

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1. Have a Bintang while watching the sunset at Single Fin Café

Where: Blue Point, Uluwatu

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. This place is the business. What’s not to love about 360-degree Indian Ocean views, mouthwatering Mexican fare and cheap beer?

2. Hang on the beach with the locals…anywhere

There’s one thing that keeps me coming back to Bali. Actually, there’s quite a few. But the main one? Definitely the locals. From their cheery grins to their unsurpassed hospitality, these people are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Don’t let the initial hawking put you off—once you’ve established you’re not in the market for a Bintang singlet, the locals are more than happy for you to join them on the sand to just hang out. Don’t be surprised if you wind up spending an entire day lazing on the beach, acting like a local yourself.

3. Eat Nasi Campur…anywhere

A staple meal in Indonesia, this rice/veg/meat combo is served at pretty much every eatery in Bali—from roadside warungs to high-class restaurants. Punctuated by local flavours, the Balinese version may include grilled tuna, fried tofu or barbecued pork (being a Hindu nation) and it is absolutely delish. Not to mention, dirt-cheap.

4. Sample the delicious handmade chocolates at Pod

Where: Jl. Tukad Ayung, Carangsari, Petang, Bali “Nestled between luscious jungle, verdant rice paddies and a herd of Sumatran elephants, Pod Chocolate supports local farmers to grow organic cocoa beans to produce a selection of high quality single origin couverture chocolates.” Okay now the formalities are out of the way, I can simply say THIS CHOCOLATE IS FREAKING DELICIOUS. Aside from the idyllic environment and admirable social conscience, Pod produces some seriously mouthwatering bars and blocks, with flavours including Sea Salt Caramel, Mango Passion and Hot Chilli Kiss. They do some damn fine ice cream, too. An arranged tour will pick you up from your hotel, and includes plenty of tastings.

5. Barter like a pro

Paying twenty bucks for a pair of rip-off Ray Bans is part and parcel of your first jaunt in Bali. But fork out the same amount again, and you have no one to blame but yourself. Acknowledge your first-time-tourist-error and learn fast—bartering is like a game, and you need to be on top of yours to keep those holiday funds in check. Start low, and meet somewhere in the middle. And remember, have a laugh! The locals appreciate a friendly tussle.

6. Take a tour of the Kopi Luwak plantations

Despite the slightly off-putting nature of development (the beans of coffee berries are eaten by the Luwak, a ferret-like creature, and then passed through its digestive tract) Kopi Luwak is considered one of the finest coffees available and boasts an aromatic flavour with less bitterness than other blends. Enjoy the stroll through the plantations, learn of the cultivation methods and relish the samples at the end.

7. Observe a local ceremony (respectfully, of course)

They say all tragedies have a silver lining, which seems to be most accurate in Bali tradition. If confronted by a sea of colourful locals, carrying a decorated wadah and weaving their way through the busy streets, you’re likely caught up in a Ngaben—a funeral ritual performed to send the deceased to the next life. Often these magnificent processions result in severe traffic congestion—but when you observe the celebration, you’re guaranteed to be less stressed, more enthralled.

8. Enjoy a Sunday session at Cocoon Beach Club

Where: Jalan Uluwatu, Kuta Selatan, Bali

Nestled among the frangipanis next to Seminyak beach, you’ll find the Mediterranean-themed beach club, Cocoon—a luxury bar and restaurant that’s just as famous for its high-end nightlife as it is for its high-end service. Less precocious than other Seminyak venues, whilst still maintaining an air of class, Cocoon is the place to kick back in style. Whether you choose to anchor yourself on a soft, white day bed or inside one of the VIP cabanas, you won’t be far from the tunes when Cocoon’s international DJs pump out lively beats each evening.

9. Swim at Padang Padang beach

‪Where: Jl. Labuhan Sait, Pecatu, Bali Although this place can get a little tourist-heavy in peak seasons, it’s worth sharing a patch of sand with a fellow traveller just to swim in the turquoise sea. After scaling the stairs down to the small stretch of beach, you’ll find a number of snack stalls, board rentals and water that is so clear you’ll never want to return to Kuta to swim.

10. Get something made

If fake Louis Vuitton isn’t your thing, then I suggest you track down a local tailor and commission your very own customised piece. It’s not difficult—the streets are teeming with these talented garment makers who offer leather and fabric wares for a fraction of the price you’d get in Australia. Hot tip: take over some visual references of the exact pieces you’d like, and approach a tailor in the first couple of days of your arrival—they may be talented, but they work on “Bali time” so if you want your pieces to return home with you, get onto it pronto.

11. Surf Lakey Peak in Sumbawa

Okay so not technically Bali, “Lakey’s” (as it’s fondly known by longhaired surfer dudes) is located on the central southern coast of the island of Sumbawa in Indonesia, two islands east of Bali. Boasting an intense, hollow left and right-hand peak, the break is best at 5-8 foot and is particularly good at mid-tides. If you’re not a hardcore surfer? Lakey’s is perfect for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of Bali and enjoy a more laidback, primitive experience. Get a bus, plane or ferry into Sumbawa, and then jump in a taxi to Lakey Peak.

12. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Where: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud

There’s no escaping this place. If you visit Bali, you must visit the monkey forest. If anything, just so you can share hilarious family photos of yourself being intimidated on a park bench by a snarly primate. There’s just something about these cute, furry creatures turning completely frenzied and trying to steal your (a) bananas (b) wallet (c) dignity that make us Aussies keep coming back for more. Rid yourself of any loose hanging valuables, purchase a hand of bananas at the entry, and prepare for an entertaining, one-off experience.

13. Enjoy a seafood barbecue on Echo Beach in Canggu

Where: Jl. Pura Batu Mejan, Canggu Jimbaran Bay, with its open-air restaurants and famous fish market, has long been hailed as the place to go for a quality seafood feast in Bali. And I’m not one to disagree. However if you’re looking for an alternative with equally as impressive ocean fare and toes-in-sand dining, look no further than The Beach House restaurant at Echo Beach in Canggu. Enjoy a drool-inducing barbecue every evening, which boasts a gleaming array of fresh prawns and lobsters, imported steaks, mouthwatering ribs and succulent, organic salads. Depending on your mood, you can dine in the restaurant or at an outdoor table spilling onto the beach—bliss!

14. Visit the Elephant Safari Park Lodge

Where: Jl. Elephant Park Taro, Taro Village, Tegallalang, Ubud

Fancy waking up to the sounds of a herd of meandering elephants? That’s what you could be in for with a stay at this eco-friendly elephant sanctuary, overlooking nearly four hectares of pristine tropical parklands and unspoiled national forest. Whether treating yourself to an overnight holiday or simply enjoying a one-off visit, you can look forward to hands on activities, an elephant museum, a day spa, quality dining, and getting up close and personal with the beautiful beasts themselves.

15. Check out some local art

Where: Jl. Monkey Forest Kedewatan Ubud Gianyar Bali, 80571 Often referred to as the artist hub of Bali, the quaint, rural village of Ubud has been the island’s centre for artisans for more than 70 years. Galleries, studios and art and craft stalls line the streets and fine examples of stone, wood and silver creations can be found at local markets and in boutiques. Head to Komaneka Gallery to view some of the best collections of contemporary paintings and sculptures by Balinese and Southeast Asian artists in the world.

16. Spend a lazy day by the pool at Potato Head Beach Club

Where: Jalan Petitenget, Seminyak, Bali

Amusing name aside, this chic Bali beach club has been topping the lists of travel guides since its inception in 2010. Boasting a prestige location surrounded by some of Seminyak’s most fancy restaurants and bars, Potato Head makes it own statement thanks to its semi-circular construction and whimsical exterior of rustic, mismatched shutters. Get here early to reserve a day bed by the infinity pool, and enjoy prompt attention by wait staff offering you delectable cocktails from the bar menu.

17. Eat at Bebek Teba Sari Resto in Ubud

Where: Br. Kelingkung, Lodtunduh, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali

This Asian fusion restaurant may be a little off the beaten track, but it’s certainly worth the visit. Meals are served in incredible bamboo gazebos that sit atop an idyllic pond, while koi swim right up to the water’s edge as you dine. The spectacular view of the lush rice fields is complemented by the equally spectacular service and attentive staff, while the abundant menu boasts a bountiful mix of Western and Asian offerings (including set menus and vegetarian options) at an affordable price. Try the house specialty crispy duck for a real pleaser.

18. Visit a temple

Standard, yes. Imperative, also yes. Known as the “island of a thousand temples”, Bali is famed for its ancient temples, cloaked in history and religious tradition. It would be foolish to miss out on such an experience. Head to Taman Ayun in Mengwi, about 10km northeast of Tana Lot, for tranquil gardens, fountains and ponds.

19. Get a massage on the beach (not in your hotel)

There’s something about listening to the waves crash while being gently massaged on the sand that screams ‘island holiday’. Detract the occasional interruption of animated Indonesian bartering, and you’ve got a totally blissful experience. Skip the overpriced hotel spa and head down to the beach where you can score yourself a lengthy massage for about the price of a coffee.

20. Get your hair braided or a henna tattoo (or both)

Because, why not? Your first foray to Bali is the only forgivable time for you to indulge in such a bogan-friendly activity. Any time after that is simply inexcusable. Go all out. But just make sure the braids are out by the time you land on home turf.

Featured image by iStock