Bali
Known as the 'Island of the Gods', Bali lives up to its divine reputation and is an integral part of most travelers' itineraries. The island is blessed with warm weather year round, endless beaches and a varied interior terrain. Despite its development as a popular tourist destination, the island retains its unique culture and soul and seems impervious to the influences of the modern world.
We recommend moving beyond the beaches to experience the real 'soul' of Bali. Due to the small size of the island it is possible to use the beach and another town, such as Ubud- the arts capital, as bases and do day trips around the island. Or opt for a round trip for a more in-depth look at the island. Whichever you choose, we recommend at least 5 days exploring the island. Our Bali Travel Guide below can help you to make your decision.
Bali Beaches
Bali's coastline boasts a diverse range of beaches from jungle-shrouded sands in the northwest to pristine white beaches in the southwest. This section of our Bali Travel Guide outlines the different beach areas as well as our favorite hotels in and around that area.
North and East Coast
The north coast is marked by quiet, sleepy beaches of black volcanic sand while the east coast also offers a laid-back island atmosphere but with white sands and abundant diving opportunities. The main beach on the north is Lovina, one of the first resort towns on Bali, and now feels more like a small town with a handful of restaurants and hotels. Moving eastwards, you arrive at Tulamben and Amed, the former being a popular spot for scuba diving and the later noted for its charming, welcoming atmosphere. Curving further down the coast, you reach Candidasa and Padangabai. Overlooking Lombok Island, these two towns are ideal for families or those seeking to get away from the buzz of other southern beaches.
To experience a blend of outdoor and indoor living, try the beachfront Puri Bagus hotel, just a short stroll from the center of Lovina. Consisting of 40 spacious villas, with simple yet stylish interiors, this tropical paradise lures guests to the natural outdoor beauty of the property. Alternatively head east and enjoy the intimacy of the Alila Mangiss, where traditional Balinese influences can be found running throughout the sleek and design-led features of this luxurious property.
Western area and Coast
Often overlooked, the west coast offers more than a handful of beaches that are appealing for their rugged coastlines, cliff formations and solitude. Take time to explore one of Bali's more remote regions and delve into a true 'local' experience. A fantastic choice for nature lovers, this part of the island is home to Bali Barat, a national park covering 70,000 acres, famous for the white starling and Indonesian wild bull.
Negara, the capital of the region and relatively unexplored by tourists, is host to the annual bull racing contest. Southwest of Negara, can be found one of Bali's most important temples, Pura Lulur at Uluwatu. Built in the eleventh century, the temple sits on a cliff top overlook one of the regions isolated beaches. "Ulu" means head and "Watu" means rock, the temple stands at the "head of the rock" and commands some of the most breathtaking views in Bali 200m above the Indian Ocean.
Famed for their waves, these beaches attract surfers from all over the island looking for first-rate surf. There are some unique places to stay throughout this expanse of Bali, in keeping with the character of the western region. We recommend looking at Puri Taman Sari, built in a traditional Balinese compound owned by a member of the royal family. For an intimate experience filled with the warmth of Indonesian hospitality, Gaja Minah houses just nine villas nestled amongst scenic gardens and rice paddies. Set just a short stroll from a 30km stretch of deserted beach guests will experience a veritable escape from the hectic pace of normal life. Those seeking a remote getaway will find peace and isolation at the WakaGangga Resort. Relaying on ecologically sound products and local materials for its construction, WakaGangga has received several distinctions and awards for its eco-friendly ethics
South and Southwest Coast
The legendary southwest coastline of the island of Bali has been attracting visitors and locals alike for years. With a medley of beaches and areas, each offering unique personalities, this part of Bali truly has something for everyone.
Dip your toes into the sea at Seminyak, whilst listening to the soft beats of mellow music filtering out from some of the islands trendiest bars. Home to the renowned Oberoi Hotel, chic Seminyak beach echoes the style and class more usually associated with Miami or South Beach, Los Angeles. A laid back surfing beach by day, be ready to get out your glad rags as dusk comes, and fall onto one of the beach sofas at the well-known Ku De Ta bar, one of the island's best spots for people watching and sundowners.
Whilst the crowds and surfers head to the lively area of Kuta, looking for a party, we recommend you venture beyond this teeming beach, a backpackers haven for many years. Head south from Seminyak and Kuta, down to Jimbaran Bay, the island's prime spot for a seafood beach barbeque. As you meander down the sand you will be overwhelmed by the range of delights for you to enjoy whilst sitting at these informal, relaxed eateries. Some of the islands most opulent properties can be found at Jimbaran Bay including the grand, lavish villas of the Four Seasons hotel, where pure luxury meets the highest levels of experience.
If you are travelling as a family, look to Nusa Dua, on the southeast side of the peninsula and just across from Jimbaran Bay. Here you will find miles of glorious, golden sandy beaches that meet a calm, deep ocean, very safe to swim in and great for kids. On offer you will find a variety of accommodations and restaurants ranging from the Laguna Resort and Spa, a deluxe option with fantastic facilities for adults and kids alike, to the smaller Balinese, where family style villas are set in lush, tropical gardens.
What can I do?
The coastline of Bali is not only home to some of Indonesia's finest stretches of beaches but the area also has a multitude of activities and past times if you are looking to interrupt the down time with something a bit more energetic. On offer are plenty of ways to while away your time, whether on land or water.
We suggest taking some time to explore the Bukit peninsula, where Bali's most ancient temple, Pura Luhur Uluwatu perches majestically on a cliff edge. Regarded as one of the six most important temples in Bali, it is said to protect the Balinese from the evil spirit of the ocean. Viewing the sunset from Uluwatu is one of the must-dos whilst on Bali, and a nightly performance of the indigenous Kecak dance takes place here for all to enjoy. The Kecak dance derives from an ancient Balinese ritual and is a trance dance driven by repetitive chanting of the participants. The spiritualistic elements of the dance are no longer prevalent in the current day version but the effect of the rhythmic chanting of 30 bare-chested men is certainly trance inducing. The performance cumulates in a spectacular fire show set against the backdrop of the Balinese sunset.
Whether you are a slave to the surf or a first time boogie boarder, jump into the ocean and ride some of Asia's best waves. Depending on your levels of experience and confidence, there is a beach for everyone, with surf lessons widely available throughout the island.
Our Indonesia day trips enable you to explore Bali in a multitude of ways, whatever your interests may be. Take a tour around the island in a retro VW convertible with a professional guide by your side. We will lead you to some of Bali's main attractions but our knowledge and expertise will enable you to avoid the crowds and see the island in a way most don't. Alternatively escape from Bali and take a day cruise to Nusa Lembongan Island. Relax on board a luxurious vessel whilst cruising to one of Indonesia's most spectacular areas, where you will have the opportunity to snorkel amongst a plethora of tropical sea-life, take an educational marine walk or join in the 'mangrove tour' for a glimpse into the lives of local fishing communities.
Shopping and Dining
Bali will almost certainly have you digging deep into your pockets as your wander through the myriad of stalls and markets. Bali is a treasure trove of fine art, antiques, jewelry, carved furniture, paintings, dyed silks and irresistible fabrics. Enjoy some friendly bargaining with the traders whilst indulging in a truly unique shopping experience. A word of advice, when bargaining in Bali, think about what value your purchase has to you, and not just about trying to get it for the cheapest possible price. This will make the experience more enjoyable for yourself and the vendor. If you are looking for some more International brands, head to the shopping Mecca of Seminyak where locally made Bali designs and more established products meet to offer some of the best shopping experiences on the island.
Dining in Bali is certainly seen as one of the highlights for many a visitor. Authentic Balinese cuisine is sometimes seen as a straightforward affair, consisting of rice, vegetables and some meat or fish on the side and accompanied by a range of condiments. The Balinese eat with their right hand, as the left is impure, a common belief throughout Indonesia. The offerings of the island however extend far beyond this simple fare, with restaurants, cafes and bars catering to all tastes and budgets. Traditional Indonesian food is easy to come by on Bali, whether from a street market or a five star hotel. Local dishes that must be sampled include Gado Gado, a light salad mix served with peanut sauce which will often be made fresh to order in front of customers and the famous Nasi Goreng, a tasty Indonesian interpretation of fried rice.
As previously mentioned, Jimbaran Bay is home to some of the best seafood restaurants on the island. Our personal recommendation is the Menega Café at Jimbaran. This institution offers seafood straight from the ocean, cooked fresh to order at the water's edge. Located just behind the Four Seasons hotel this is a must try for seafood lovers. For those looking for some Mediterranean flavors, head to Ultimo in the Seminyak area. Here candle-lit tables are scattered throughout tropical gardens, fresh ingredients used to create sumptuous dishes and live music can be enjoyed on Mondays and Thursdays.
