Bali Right Now
Air quality is poor in some areas due to widespread trash burning following restrictions at the Suwung landfill.
Eid al-Adha (Idul Adha)
Best time to visit
Great time to visit
May offers pleasant weather with average highs around 30°C (86°F) and a moderate number of visitors. Expect about seven rainy days this month, so pack accordingly.
SCORE BY MONTH
Visit Bali from June to August for the driest weather and pleasant temperatures around 28-29°C (82-84°F). Avoid January and February when heavy rain is common. While July and August are busiest, the drier conditions make them ideal for beaches and exploring.
Visitor data: Bali Statistics Agency (BPS Bali) International Arrivals 2019
Day-to-day in Bali
Walkability
36/100
Walking here means dodging motorbikes on narrow, often absent sidewalks, with drivers showing little patience. Reaching even basic amenities often requires a scooter or taxi due to poor pedestrian infrastructure.
Sidewalks are often broken, blocked by motorbikes and vendors, and disappear entirely on many main roads.
Basic services like food and groceries are often a significant walk away, requiring transport even in popular areas.
Motorbike density is extreme, drivers show little regard for pedestrians, and safe crossings are rare.
Climate works against walking for much of the year. Plan around weather windows.
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Monthly cost
$1,219 / month
AFFORDABLESolo mid-range stay including rent, daily eating out, groceries, and routine costs.
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SURF
Reliable waves year-round. Beginner-friendly beach breaks are in Kuta and Canggu, while Uluwatu is for experienced surfers.
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Coworking
Coworking
Huge scene, mostly Canggu, Uluwatu and Ubud. Over a dozen dedicated spaces make finding a desk easy any day of the week.
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Gym
Gym
Gyms are pricey, with monthly memberships starting around $30. Expect luxury fitness clubs, such as Omni and Body factory, charging upwards of $250 a month.
Need to Know
- Currency
- Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
- Language
- Indonesian, widespread English in tourist zones
- Tap water
- Not safe to drink
- Time zone
- GMT+8 (WITA)
- Power plug
- Type C / F, 230V
- Dialling code
- +62
- Driving side
- left
- Tipping
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A 5% tip is common if a service charge isn't included, or you can round up the bill.
- Internet
- Bali has decent 4G coverage across the island, with 5G rolling out in major tourist hubs like Denpasar, Kuta, Seminyak, and Sanur.
- Emergency
- 112 (all services), 110 (police), 118 (ambulance), 113 (fire)
When not to go
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Nyepi locks you in place
Do not plan your arrival or departure around Nyepi. The airport is closed for 24 hours and once you are in, you are confined to your hotel with no transport, no beach access, and minimal lighting at night. If this doesn't sound like a good time, stay elsewhere for that date and come back after.
Go here instead:
- Lombok Nearby island where daily life continues, a lot of people escape here for Nyepi.
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Skip Bali in January
January is peak wet season and it hits hard. Expect long downpours most days, cancelled fast boats, and west coast beaches covered in trash washed in by monsoon currents. Go May through September instead, or shift to Komodo for far better conditions.
Go here instead:
- Thailand Most destinations in Thailand have more consistent sun during this period.
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Lebaran exodus clogs the island
Avoid the days before and after Lebaran at the end of Ramadan. Millions travel home in a pulang kampung surge, and routes to the west like Gilimanuk back up for hours with ferries and roads gridlocked. Either stay put during that window or travel well before it peaks.
Bali itineraries
Upcoming Events & Holidays
Upcoming events — next 30 days
On the horizon
Public holidays & observances — next 12 months
Dates are researched and checked, but events move. Always confirm with the official source before you book anything around them.
Getting To Bali
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Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
13 km south of Denpasar, serving all of Bali
DPS is Bali's only airport, so all international arrivals land here. Official airport taxis are available, but ride-hailing apps Grab and Gojek are also present, though you'll need to walk to a designated 'Online Taxi Lounge' in the parking area for pickup. Avoid unofficial drivers who approach you in the terminal.
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Immigration and entry process
Non-ASEAN passport holders require a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or e-VoA. Queue times vary, can be 45-90 minutes at peak.
Most travelers from the US, UK, EU, AU, CA, and NZ need a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or an e-VoA for stays up to 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days. You can apply for the e-VoA online before arrival to save time at the airport. All international visitors must also complete an All Indonesia Arrival Card online within 72 hours of arrival and pay a Bali tourist levy of IDR 150,000 (10 USD), which can be done online or at the airport. Have your passport (valid for at least 6 months), return ticket, and e-VoA/VoA payment ready. Baggage claim can be slow, sometimes taking up to an hour.
Safety Advice
Bali is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of common scams like taxi overcharging and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. Traffic can be chaotic and dangerous, so exercise extreme caution if renting a scooter.
Common Scams
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Fake Blue Bird Taxis
HIGH RISKTrigger:A light blue taxi refuses the meter outside the airport
Drivers copy the Blue Bird look with similar paint, logos, or names like Blue Biro, then quote inflated fixed fares around Ngurah Rai Airport, Kuta, Seminyak, and Legian. Some claim the meter is broken after you are already moving.
How to avoid: Use the official Blue Bird app, Grab, or Gojek whenever possible. Real Blue Bird taxis use a working meter, driver ID, and clear company branding.
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Money Changer Short Changing
MEDIUM RISKTrigger:A tiny exchange booth offers rates far above nearby counters
Street-side money changers in Kuta, Legian, and parts of Ubud use fast counting tricks, distractions, or folded bills to hand back less rupiah than promised. The better the rate board looks, the more suspicious you should get.
How to avoid: Use authorized counters like Central Kuta Money Exchange or withdraw cash from bank ATMs. Count every bill slowly before leaving the counter.
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Scooter Damage Shakedown
HIGH RISKTrigger:Rental staff demand cash for scratches after you return the scooter
Some rental shops blame travellers for existing damage and demand inflated repair payments, sometimes Rp500,000 to Rp3,000,000 ($30-185). In worse cases, owners reclaim the bike with spare keys and accuse you of losing it.
How to avoid: Photograph every panel, scratch, tire, and fuel gauge before leaving. Never hand over your passport as collateral if the shop insists.
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Fake Police Traffic Stops
MEDIUM RISKTrigger:Men on scooters stop you demanding immediate cash fines
Impostors target tourists riding scooters around Seminyak, Canggu, and Petitenget, claiming your license or helmet is invalid. They push for cash payments on the roadside with no paperwork.
How to avoid: Carry an international driving permit and wear a helmet properly. Ask for an official ticket and say you will pay at the station instead.
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Closed Attraction Detour
LOW RISKTrigger:A driver says your temple or attraction is closed today
Drivers and touts reroute tourists to commission-based stops like art shops, coffee plantations, or overpriced temples with inflated entry fees. This still happens around Ubud and major temple routes.
How to avoid: Check opening hours yourself on Google Maps or the official site before leaving. Refuse detours and stick to your original stop.
Mistakes to Avoid
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Overstaying your visa
SERIOUS CONSEQUENCEIndonesia charges Rp1,000,000 ($65) per day for visa overstays, including a single extra day. Longer overstays can lead to detention, deportation, and re-entry bans that follow you for years.
Fix: Check your visa expiry carefully and start extensions well before the final week. Immigration offices in Bali are rarely quick.
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Not wearing a helmet
SERIOUS CONSEQUENCEPolice regularly stop tourists riding without helmets in Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu. More importantly, Bali's roads produce serious scooter crashes daily, and insurance companies often reject claims if you ignored helmet laws.
Fix: Wear a proper fitted helmet every ride, even for short trips. Refuse damaged rental helmets with loose straps or cracked shells.
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Drinking tap water
SERIOUS CONSEQUENCETap water in Bali is not considered safe to drink and regularly causes stomach infections known as Bali Belly. Smaller cafes and beach bars can also use questionable ice or rinse produce in unsafe water.
Fix: Use sealed bottled water or trusted refill stations. If your stomach is sensitive, avoid ice outside reputable restaurants.
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Inappropriate temple dress
Balinese temples expect visitors to wear a sarong and sash covering the legs, even at heavily touristed sites like Besakih and Tirta Empul. Turning up in beachwear can get you denied entry immediately.
Fix: Carry a sarong in your bag or rent one at the entrance. Cover shoulders as well when possible.
Money & Payments
Carry cash for street food and markets, use cards in hotels and larger shops, and always pay in local currency at terminals.
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Cash is Essential Locally Cash in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is crucial for transactions at local markets, street food stalls, small warungs, and beach kiosks. Many smaller vendors do not accept card payments. Carrying smaller denominations is also helpful as some vendors may not have change for large bills.
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Cards Accepted, Surcharges Common Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Bali's tourist areas, including hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping centers. However, many establishments, especially smaller ones, may add a 2-3% surcharge for card payments. American Express has limited acceptance.
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ATMs Widely Available ATMs are easy to find in Bali, with major local banks like BCA, Bank Mandiri, BNI, and Permata Bank having a strong presence. Most ATMs dispense 50,000 IDR or 100,000 IDR notes, with per-transaction withdrawal limits typically ranging from 1,250,000 IDR to 3,000,000 IDR (approximately $80 to $200 USD). Daily limits can be higher if you use ATMs from different banks. Be aware that some ATMs dispense cash before returning your card.
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Avoid Card Currency Conversion Always choose to be charged in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) when using an ATM or paying with a card. Picking your home currency at the prompt locks in a worse exchange rate from the terminal, not your bank.
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Local E-wallets via QRIS Digital wallets like GoPay, OVO, and DANA are widely used by locals via the QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) system. While some foreign banking apps now support direct QRIS scanning, tourists generally need a local SIM card and to download a local app to use them for payments.
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Mandatory Tourist Levy Bali levies a mandatory tourist tax of IDR 150,000 (approximately $10 USD) per person, per entry, regardless of age. This fee is separate from your visa and can be paid online via the official LoveBali website or at Ngurah Rai International Airport upon arrival.
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International Transfers To send money to a bank account in Indonesia, for things like rent or day-to-day expenses, services like Wise or Remitly usually offer better rates than traditional banks and faster delivery.
You'll typically need the recipient's full name, account number, and SWIFT/BIC code. Some banks may also require a local address.
Costs in Bali
Bali still offers incredible value, but the days of ultra-budget travel are fading as demand from remote workers has driven up rental prices in popular areas. You can still eat cheaply at local warungs for just a few dollars, but imported goods and Western-style cafes will cost more.
SIM Cards & Data
Best option for most travellers: an eSIM you set up before you arrive. You'll be online the moment you land, with no airport queue and no tourist pricing.
Travel eSIMs Connect the second you land. Zero hassle. Skip the airport queue and paperwork. Activate before you fly and land connected. Find the best eSIM →Prefer a local SIM?
For reliable connectivity across Bali's tourist hubs like Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud, the network coverage is generally strong with widespread 4G and expanding 5G in major areas. Speeds are typically sufficient for essential travel needs such as maps, ride-hailing, messaging, and streaming occasional videos.
What Bali is Like
Stepping off the plane, the first thing that truly hits you about Bali these days isn't the humidity or the incense, it's the sheer, relentless volume of traffic. What was once a slow-paced island paradise now feels like a permanent, low-speed crawl, especially in the south. Roads designed for village life are choked with scooters and cars, making a 10-kilometre trip from the airport to Seminyak feel like an expedition. You'll spend a lot of time in transit, inching along Jalan Sunset Road or through the narrow lanes of Canggu, so adjust your expectations of quick hops between places. This congestion is the island's most frustrating reality right now, and it's not getting better anytime soon, despite ongoing discussions about infrastructure improvements like a metro system that, frankly, seems stalled.
The island carves itself into distinct zones, each with its own energy and annoyances. Canggu, for instance, has fully cemented its role as the digital nomad and influencer hub, overflowing with trendy cafes, co-working spaces, and beach clubs like Finns or Atlas Beach Fest. It's undeniably lively, but also suffers from the worst of the traffic and a palpable sense of being an 'atmosphere for the sake of tourists' where genuine local interaction often takes a backseat to curated aesthetics. Seminyak still holds its own for upscale dining and boutiques, a more polished version of the chaos, while Kuta, the original party zone, feels a bit tired and is best avoided unless cheap drinks and late nights are your absolute priority.
Ubud, nestled inland, offers a different rhythm, theoretically. It's still the spiritual heart, full of yoga studios and rice paddies, but the main streets are now perpetually busy. If you want a quieter experience here, you need to head a bit further out to areas like Nyuh Kuning or Mas, where the cafes and local markets still feel a little more integrated into daily life. The food scene across the island is genuinely excellent and constantly evolving, with new spots like KORO Bali in Nyanyi offering refined Japanese-Italian fusion, and San Yook in Canggu bringing modern Korean BBQ to the forefront. You can eat incredibly well, from cheap warungs serving nasi goreng to high-end establishments, but expect tourist pricing to be a constant game, especially in the popular areas.
Navigating Bali requires a certain level of vigilance. Taxi drivers at the airport will try to overcharge significantly, so pre-booking transfers or using ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek is essential for fair pricing, though even then, fake drivers can be an issue. Scams are common, from shady money changers short-changing you to scooter rental places blaming you for pre-existing damage. Always count your money carefully, inspect rentals thoroughly, and use ATMs inside reputable banks to avoid card skimming. The constant barrage of people trying to sell you something, from massages to souvenirs, can also be genuinely annoying when you just want to walk around unbothered.
Nightlife, particularly in Canggu and Seminyak, means beach clubs and bars, with many places now charging entry fees that often include a drink. These spots can be fun, but the music often blasts loud enough to ruin any chance of actual conversation. If you're looking for something beyond the thumping bass, smaller, more sophisticated cocktail bars exist, but they are fewer and further between. Recently, there's been a push to ban nightclubs from hotels after 11 PM to curb noise pollution and overtourism, which might shift the late-night landscape in the coming months. It's a place where the party can be found, but sometimes it feels like it's designed more for the 'gram than for a genuine good time.
Nyepi Day
Everything stops, and it is not a suggestion. By late afternoon the streets empty, shop shutters come down, and the last motorbikes disappear off the road. Then the island goes dark. No traffic, no music, no background hum from bars or beach clubs. Step onto a hotel balcony and you hear insects, wind through trees, and the occasional murmur from a nearby compound. It feels less like a holiday and more like someone cut the power to an entire country on purpose, and for some people that is exactly why it is worth staying.
Nyepi marks the Balinese Hindu New Year, but it is not a countdown or a party. The idea is to trick evil spirits into thinking the island is empty so they pass by, leaving Bali alone for another cycle. That belief shows up in the rules: no fire, no travel, no work, no entertainment. It is not about celebration on the day itself, it is about silence and reset. Even if you do not buy into the meaning, the enforced pause has a strange pull once you settle into it.
The night before gives you the release. Ogoh ogoh parades roll through villages with giant demon effigies, drums pounding and crowds packed shoulder to shoulder. It is loud, chaotic, and deliberate, a way to draw out negative forces before they are symbolically burned or carried away. Then the switch flips the next morning and everything drops to zero. Seeing both sides back to back makes the quiet land harder.
After full darkness, Bali becomes one of the few populated places where the sky actually shows itself. Without street lighting or traffic glow, the stars come through clearly, especially away from the southern strip. Even in places like Ubud you get a sky that looks closer to a national park than a tourist town, assuming the clouds stay away. You are not free to wander off and chase it though. Local banjar patrols move through neighbourhoods to enforce the rules, and stepping outside without reason will get you sent straight back inside.
Areas of Bali
- Clifftop views, surf, luxury
Uluwatu
Perched on the dramatic cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is renowned for its world-class surf breaks, stunning ocean views, and high-end resorts, attracting surfers and luxury travelers. The area is less developed than Seminyak or Canggu, with a more spread-out feel and fewer walkable amenities, meaning a scooter or car is essential for getting around. While the sunsets are spectacular, finding affordable food outside of your resort can be a challenge.
Good for:Surfing advanced waves, luxury stays with ocean views, dramatic clifftop scenery.
Skip if:You prefer easily walkable areas or are on a strict budget.
- Surf, cafes, nightlife
Canggu
Canggu is the island's current hotspot, a sprawling area known for its surf breaks, health cafes, and buzzing nightlife, drawing a younger, more international crowd than Seminyak. The narrow roads are perpetually choked with scooters and cars, making even short trips a test of patience, and the area can feel more like an international enclave than a traditional Balinese village. It's less walkable than Seminyak, requiring a scooter or ride-hail for most movements.
Good for:Surfing, cafe hopping, lively beach clubs and nightlife.
Skip if:You dislike heavy traffic, constant noise, or a predominantly expat/tourist environment.
- Upscale dining, shopping
Seminyak
This is Bali's established upscale tourist hub, offering a more refined experience than Kuta with boutique shops, high-end restaurants, and beach clubs. While it still gets crowded, particularly around sunset, the vibe is generally more relaxed and sophisticated, though prices for food and accommodation are noticeably higher. Expect traffic congestion on Jalan Kayu Aya, especially in the evenings, making short distances take longer than anticipated.
Good for:Dining at quality restaurants, boutique shopping, beach club lounging.
Skip if:You are on a tight budget or seeking a quiet, traditional Balinese experience.
- Seafood dinners, quiet beaches
Jimbaran
Jimbaran offers a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere than its northern neighbors, famous for its beachfront seafood dinners where you pick your catch and have it grilled fresh. The beaches here are generally calmer and cleaner than Kuta's, though the area can feel a bit spread out, requiring transport to get around beyond your immediate hotel. It's a good alternative to the constant buzz of Seminyak if you prioritize quiet evenings and fresh seafood.
Good for:Romantic seafood dinners on the beach, family-friendly stays, relaxed beach days.
Skip if:You want a vibrant nightlife or extensive shopping options.
- Budget party, beginner surf
Kuta
Kuta is Bali's original tourist destination, a budget-friendly area known for its long sandy beach, beginner surf waves, and a more raucous party scene than Seminyak or Canggu. While it's lost some of its shine to newer areas, you'll still find cheap accommodation and drinks, particularly along Legian Street, but also a higher concentration of hawkers and aggressive taxi drivers. It's a good base for those looking to party and surf on a budget, but don't expect a peaceful retreat.
Good for:Budget travel, learning to surf, late-night partying.
Skip if:You seek tranquility, upscale dining, or an escape from mass tourism.
- Culture, wellness, nature
Ubud
Ubud is Bali's cultural heart, set amidst lush rice paddies and offering a slower pace than the southern beach towns, though it's far from quiet, with its main streets often bustling with tourists. You'll find art galleries, yoga studios, and traditional dance performances here, but expect to pay tourist prices for most activities and be prepared for significant traffic around the Monkey Forest and central market. It's a stark contrast to the beach-focused areas like Canggu, lacking direct beach access but offering a cooler climate.
Good for:Exploring Balinese culture, yoga and wellness retreats, scenic rice field walks.
Skip if:You want beach access or a lively party scene.
- Relaxed beach, family-friendly
Sanur
Sanur is a laid-back coastal town, a stark contrast to the energetic pace of Kuta and Canggu, making it popular with families and older travelers. It boasts a calm reef-protected beach ideal for swimming and a paved promenade perfect for cycling, but the nightlife is minimal and most places close relatively early. While it offers a more traditional Balinese feel than the western coast, some might find it a bit too quiet and lacking in excitement.
Good for:Relaxed beach holidays, cycling along the promenade, family trips.
Skip if:You are looking for a lively party scene or extensive shopping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning & moving around
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Which neighbourhood in Bali should I stay in?
For nightlife and trendy cafes, Canggu is your spot, though expect traffic and crowds. Seminyak offers a more upscale experience with established restaurants and beach clubs. Ubud is the cultural heart, ideal for yoga, rice paddies, and a slower pace, while Uluwatu delivers cliff-top views and surf breaks. Sanur is best for families seeking a calmer beach and shallow waters.
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How many days do I need in Bali?
A solid week gives you enough time to explore a couple of distinct areas like Seminyak or Canggu for beaches and nightlife, plus Ubud for culture. If you have 10-14 days, you can comfortably add quieter regions like Sidemen or Amed for a more traditional Bali experience and less traffic. Anything less than five days feels rushed and you will spend most of it in transit.
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What are the best day trips in Bali?
Nusa Penida, a 45-minute fast boat ride from Sanur, is worth it for its dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches like Kelingking Beach, but prepare for rough roads and crowds at key photo spots. The Gili Islands, a 1.5 to 2-hour fast boat journey from Padang Bai, offer car-free tranquility and excellent snorkeling, justifying an overnight stay rather than a day trip. For something closer, a trip to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces (about 1.5 hours from Seminyak) provides stunning, UNESCO-listed landscapes without the intense crowds of the south.
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Where can I store my luggage in Bali between checkout and my flight?
Most hotels in Bali are happy to store your luggage at the front desk for several hours after checkout, even if you are not returning. For longer periods or if your hotel is unhelpful, services like Bounce and LuggageHero have partner locations in popular areas like Seminyak, Canggu, and near Ngurah Rai International Airport. Some larger shopping malls, such as Beachwalk Shopping Center in Kuta, also offer paid locker facilities.
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Which markets in Bali are worth visiting and when are they on?
The Ubud Art Market is worth a visit for souvenirs and handicrafts, though prices are inflated and haggling is expected; it is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. For fresh produce and a glimpse into local life, head to the Badung Market in Denpasar, open 24 hours. The Love Anchor Bazaar in Canggu, open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, offers a more curated selection of fashion and homewares, with less aggressive bargaining.
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Do you need a licence to rent a scooter in Bali?
Yes, you absolutely need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement to legally ride a scooter in Bali. Many rental shops will rent to anyone with cash, but if you are stopped by police, or worse, get into an accident, your travel insurance will be void without the correct license. Police often set up checkpoints in tourist areas like Canggu and Seminyak specifically targeting foreigners on scooters.
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What are the must-have ride-hailing apps in Bali?
Gojek and Grab are the two essential ride-hailing apps for getting around Bali, offering both car and scooter options. Gojek tends to have more drivers and better coverage in areas like Canggu and Ubud, while Grab is often competitive on price, especially for airport transfers. Having both installed allows you to compare prices and availability, particularly during peak hours or in less central locations.
Safety & medical
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Do I need travel insurance for Bali?
Travel insurance for Bali is non-negotiable, especially given the prevalence of scooter accidents and potential for foodborne illness. Many local hospitals require upfront payment or proof of insurance before treatment, and medical evacuation for serious injuries can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Ensure your policy explicitly covers scooter riding if you plan to rent one, as many standard policies exclude it without a valid motorcycle license.
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Is it safe to walk around Bali at night?
Walking around main tourist areas like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud at night is generally safe, especially on well-lit streets with foot traffic. However, quiet side streets and poorly lit paths can be risky for opportunistic snatch-and-grab thefts, particularly by individuals on scooters. Always use a ride-hailing app or taxi if you are alone or in an unfamiliar area after dark, and avoid carrying valuables in easily accessible pockets.
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What happens if I get sick in Bali?
For minor illnesses or injuries, pharmacies like Guardian and Kimia Farma are widely available in tourist areas and often have English-speaking staff. For more serious concerns, BIMC Hospital in Kuta and Siloam Hospitals Denpasar are private facilities popular with expats and tourists, offering international standards of care and English-speaking doctors. For emergencies, dial 112, but be aware that response times can vary significantly depending on traffic and location, making evacuation insurance crucial for severe incidents.
Laws & local norms
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What are the drug laws in Bali?
Bali has extremely strict drug laws, with even small amounts of cannabis, CBD products, or other recreational drugs carrying severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and even the death penalty. Do not assume that products legal in your home country are permissible here; customs checks are thorough, and local police conduct frequent raids in tourist areas like Canggu and Kuta. There is no leniency for foreigners.
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Can I vape in Bali?
Vaping is legal in Bali, and e-cigarettes and vape liquids are widely available for purchase in tourist areas like Seminyak and Canggu. However, use common sense and avoid vaping in enclosed public spaces or near temples, where it could be considered disrespectful. There are no specific restrictions beyond those that apply to traditional cigarette smoking, but carrying large quantities of liquid could raise questions at customs.
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Is Bali LGBTQ+ friendly?
Bali is generally more tolerant than other parts of Indonesia, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Seminyak and Canggu, where same-sex couples may encounter fewer issues. However, public displays of affection are still not common and may draw stares, and it is best to exercise discretion, especially outside of these liberal enclaves. There are no specific legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, and social attitudes can be conservative in more traditional areas like Ubud or rural villages.
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What is the dress code for temples in Bali?
When visiting Balinese temples, you must cover your shoulders and knees, and both men and women are required to wear a sarong and a sash around their waist. Many temples, such as Tanah Lot and Uluwatu Temple, provide sarongs for rent at the entrance, but it is respectful to bring your own. Modest dress is also appreciated in more traditional villages outside the main tourist hubs.
Food & drink
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Where do locals actually eat in Bali?
Locals in Bali flock to warungs, small family-run eateries, for affordable and authentic Indonesian food. In Seminyak, try Warung Made for classic Balinese dishes, or Warung Nasi Babi Guling Ibu Oka in Ubud for the famous suckling pig. For fresh seafood, head to the beachfront warungs in Jimbaran Bay or Amed, where you can pick your catch and have it grilled on the spot. These spots are often slightly off the main tourist drags but offer much better value and taste.
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What are the best local foods to try in Bali?
You must try Nasi Goreng, a flavorful fried rice dish often served with a fried egg and satay, and Mie Goreng, its noodle counterpart. Babi Guling, a slow-roasted suckling pig, is a Balinese specialty found at dedicated warungs, particularly in Ubud and Gianyar. Don't miss Sate Lilit, minced seafood or chicken satay wrapped around lemongrass skewers, and Gado-Gado, a refreshing salad with peanut sauce.
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Is Bali vegan-friendly?
Bali is incredibly vegan-friendly, especially in areas like Canggu and Ubud, which boast a high concentration of vegan and vegetarian cafes and restaurants. Many traditional Indonesian dishes can also be easily made vegan by requesting no meat or egg, and opting for tempeh or tofu. Even outside dedicated vegan eateries, most menus offer plant-based options due to the island's strong wellness culture.
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Where can I eat late at night in Bali?
In Canggu and Seminyak, many restaurants and warungs on the main roads stay open until at least 11 PM or midnight, catering to the late-night crowd. For 24-hour options, look for convenience stores like Circle K or Indomaret, which often have hot food counters. Some larger beach clubs in Canggu, like Atlas Beach Fest, also offer late-night food menus.
Families
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Is Bali a good place to travel with kids?
Kids travel well in Bali, with locals generally welcoming and accommodating towards children in restaurants and public spaces. However, the constant traffic, lack of proper sidewalks in many areas, and the intense heat can make getting around with young children quite stressful. Expect to rely heavily on ride-hailing services for even short distances, and factor in plenty of downtime for naps and swimming to avoid meltdowns.
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Is Bali manageable with a stroller or buggy?
A stroller is the wrong tool for most of Bali outside of resort grounds or certain shopping malls. Sidewalks are often non-existent, uneven, or blocked by parked scooters, making navigation challenging and sometimes dangerous. A baby carrier is a much more practical option for exploring markets, temples, and even many restaurant areas.
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What happens if a child gets sick in Bali?
For children, BIMC Hospital in Kuta and Siloam Hospitals Denpasar offer paediatric services with English-speaking staff and are generally well-equipped for most childhood illnesses. Pharmacies like Guardian and Kimia Farma stock common children's medications, but it is wise to bring any specific brands your child regularly uses. Always have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation for children, as serious cases may require transfer to Singapore or Australia.
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What type of accommodation works best for families in Bali?
Villas with private pools are ideal for families in Bali, offering space, privacy, and a safe environment for children to play. Many resorts also offer dedicated family rooms, kids' clubs, and interconnected options in areas like Sanur and Nusa Dua. Look for properties with kitchens or kitchenettes to allow for self-catering, which can be a lifesaver with fussy eaters or dietary restrictions.
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What actually works for a half-day with young kids in Bali?
For a half-day with young kids, consider a visit to Waterbom Bali in Kuta for a guaranteed splash-and-play session, or the Bali Zoo in Gianyar for animal encounters. A morning at a calmer beach like Sanur, building sandcastles and wading in the shallow water, also works well. Avoid ambitious temple tours or long car journeys, as children will quickly get restless in the heat and traffic.
Staying
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Is Bali a good place for digital nomads to settle?
Bali is a major hub for digital nomads, particularly in Canggu and Ubud, offering abundant coworking spaces like Dojo Bali and Outpost, and countless laptop-friendly cafes. Monthly rentals for a decent one-bedroom villa in Canggu typically range from IDR 8,000,000 to 15,000,000 (about 500 to 950 USD), but prices are rising fast. Internet quality is generally good with fibre optic widely available, but power outages can be an issue outside of major areas.
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Do I need a VPN in Bali?
Bali does not block many common websites or services, but a VPN still earns its keep here. Without one, your home Netflix and Hulu libraries collapse to the local catalogue, and most banking apps get twitchy about logins from unfamiliar IPs. Free Wi-Fi in hotel lobbies and cafes is where session tokens quietly get lifted, and a VPN takes that whole category of risk off the table.
After-dark
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What changes after dark in Bali?
After dark, Bali transforms from a relaxed island vibe to a lively party scene in its southern regions, with beach clubs, bars, and restaurants coming alive. Ubud maintains a more subdued atmosphere with live music and cultural performances, while areas like Canggu and Seminyak become bustling hubs of activity. Traffic, already heavy during the day, can become even more congested in popular nightlife zones.
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Where do nights go wrong for travellers in Bali?
Nights often go wrong for travellers in Bali due to excessive alcohol consumption, particularly involving counterfeit arak, which can lead to severe illness or theft. Scooter accidents are also a major risk, as many tourists ride after drinking or without proper licenses, invalidating their insurance. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and always use a reputable ride-hailing service or taxi after dark.
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What are the best areas for nightlife in Bali?
Canggu is the undisputed hotspot for nightlife, with beach clubs like Finns Beach Club and Atlas Beach Fest drawing huge crowds for sunset parties and late-night DJ sets. Uluwatu has Savaya which draw big name artists from abroad. Seminyak offers a more sophisticated club scene at places like Potato Head Beach Club and ShiShi. For a more relaxed vibe with live music, head to Ubud, while Uluwatu has popular Thursday night parties at The Cashew Tree.
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Which dating apps are most popular in Bali?
Tinder and Bumble are the most popular dating apps in Bali, especially among tourists and expats in areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud. You will find a mix of locals and international travellers on both platforms. Be aware that some locals may be looking for financial arrangements rather than genuine connections.
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Are there red light districts in Bali?
While Bali does not have a formal, designated red light district like some other Southeast Asian cities, areas of Kuta, particularly around Legian Street, have a visible presence of street prostitution and adult entertainment, especially after midnight. Bars and clubs in this area may have hostesses or offer 'massage' services. Travellers not seeking this should simply avoid Legian Street late at night.