Bali Holiday - What You Need To Know
- Fletch
- May 22
- 23 min read
Updated: Jun 5
🌴 The Ultimate Bali Holiday Travel Guide (By Someone Who Lived There)
An introduction to Bali - This guide includes all the essential must knows + must do + must see's when it comes to your holiday to beautiful Bali. Including basics, how to get there, and essential tips for your next trip. And we know because we lived there. And right now as I write this as a family of 4 that are now full time travellers / digital nomads that are currently building our home in Bali and speak from experience not from AI generated content that many blogs churn out - we really have done all of THE BEST things in every destination that we visit. And some not so good things! So that we can share with you so you don't waste your precious time doing things that could be left off your itinerary and filling that space with amazing memories forever.
If you are new to this blog, Hello & welcome (waves): We are a family that travels full time. Go check out our YouTube video here for more about us. And please subscribe because we're quite un-known and have a goal to one day reach 100k subscribers (lol we are very far away from this goal right now) and your sub really matters and helps! In a nutshell our story: We ditched the rat race in June 2024 in the UK and bought one way tickets to Bali (where we are building a house) and whilst that is finished we slow travel the world full time with our kids. We spend a decent amount of time in each destination to find the best things that it has to offer and on an budget. Because we have kids and earn an average income online so must budget. And in 2025 we're sharing new up to date blogs and videos about this magical place to give you up to the minute travel content to help you plan your most memorable trip yet. So with that said, let's jump into this Bali Travel Guide.
Contents (easy click to skip to section):
🗣 Language
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Planning your dream Bali holiday? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveller, this is your go-to guide for everything you need to know before jetting off to the Island of the Gods. From visa tips and the best areas to stay, to understanding the weather, currency, and cultural customs—this guide is written by someone who actually lives in Bali, not just visited. We're currently building our family villa there and make itineraries for those looking to holiday in Bali. In this free guide we cover literally EVERYTHING you need to know to take your holiday to the next level.
📌 Why Choose a Bali Holiday?
A Bali holiday offers something for every kind of traveller: lush jungles, iconic rice terraces, world-class surf breaks, sacred temples, warm locals, beach clubs, waterfalls, and a unique blend of spiritual serenity and lively adventure. It’s no wonder Bali is one of the top travel destinations in the world.
📍 Where Is Bali?
Bali is an island province of Indonesia, located in Southeast Asia between Java (to the west) and Lombok (to the east). It sits in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago, just 8 degrees south of the equator, giving it a warm, tropical climate year-round.
Despite being a small island, Bali is globally recognised for its unique culture, lush landscapes, world-famous beaches, and spiritual charm. Its central location makes it a convenient base to explore the rest of Indonesia, and it’s easily accessible from major cities like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Sydney.
🛂 Entry Requirements: Do You Need a Visa?
Yes, but it’s simple.
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Available for over 90 nationalities including the UK, USA, Australia, and most of Europe. Costs IDR 500,000 (approx. $35 USD) and is valid for 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days.
Tourist Visa (B211A): For longer stays (up to 60–180 days), available via an Indonesian sponsor or visa agent.
Passport validity: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.
✅ Pro tip: Just don’t overstay—even a single day WILL result in fines or legal trouble. Si got meningitis in Bali and was quite seriously unwell (unconscious etc), which meant that we overstayed our VOA by 1 day before he was well enough to fly. But there was no lenience given for this and a fine per person for each day overstayed had to be paid. In cash at the airport too so make sure you bring enough cash with you. There is an ATM near immigration inside the airport, but ensure your bank allows big cash withdrawals if this applies to you.
✈️ How to Get to Bali
The island’s main airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), also known as Denpasar Airport.
Direct flights are available from Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and much of Asia.
From Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital, it's a short 1.5-hour flight.
Whether you're coming for a relaxing beach holiday, a spiritual retreat, or a family adventure, Bali’s location makes it a perfect tropical escape that feels a world away, but is easy to reach.
🚗 Do You Need an International Driving Permit?
Yes! To drive legally in Bali (car or scooter), you need:
A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) with the appropriate class (A for car, C for motorcycle).
Your original license from your home country.
💡 You can get your IDP online affordably before arriving. Without one, you risk fines or invalid travel insurance. But to save money, get it in your Home country before leaving. You'll save a decent amount so it's well worth it. Check out our Bali International Driving Permit blog
Or Apply for your International Drivers Permit Online here
It takes around 8 mins to do at the Official IDA site here:
🛵 Getting Around Bali: How to Travel the Island
Once you’ve landed in paradise, you’ll need to figure out the best way to get around Bali—and this depends on your travel style, group size, and comfort with local traffic conditions.
🛵 1. Rent a Scooter (If You're Confident!)
Scooters are the most popular way to get around Bali, especially in places like Canggu, Ubud, and Uluwatu. They’re affordable, convenient, and can zip through traffic far easier than cars.
Cost: IDR 60,000–100,000/day ($4–7 USD)
Fuel: Cheap and sold in bottles at roadside stands
License required: Yes — an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement (Class C)
Helmet: Always wear one. Police do check.
🚨 Important: Bali traffic can be chaotic, and accidents are common. Only rent a scooter if you're confident riding in Southeast Asian conditions.
🚖 2. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
Bali has both traditional taxis and ride-hailing apps that are easy to use:
Bluebird Taxi is the most reliable meter-based service—look for the light blue cars. We use Bluebird more. in Ubud
Grab and Gojek are the most popular ride-hailing apps (like Uber).
Both offer car and scooter rides, food delivery, and even massage-on-demand.
🛑 Some areas (especially Ubud and Canggu) have local taxi monopolies that may restrict app-based pickups, so check your location.
🚗 3. Hire a Private Driver
Hiring a private driver for the day is surprisingly affordable and a great choice for families or those wanting a stress-free experience.
Cost: IDR 600,000–900,000/day ($40–60 USD) for up to 10 hours
Great for day trips to Ubud, waterfalls, temples, or exploring off-the-beaten-path areas
Many drivers also double as tour guides and can offer insider tips
✅ This is the best option for comfort, safety, and convenience, especially if you're traveling with kids or older family members.
💰 Currency & Money Tips
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
ATMs are widely available but be cautious—use ones attached to banks or inside convenience stores to avoid skimming.
Cash is still king in local warungs, markets, and for scooter rentals.
Card payments are common in cafes, beach clubs, and hotels.
Exchange money at authorized money changers only—avoid street kiosks offering higher-than-average rates.
Use Wise, Revolut or Monzo for no fee international withdrawals.
☀️ Bali Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Understanding the weather in Bali can help you plan the perfect Bali holiday—whether you're chasing sunshine, avoiding crowds, or looking for the best time to surf, hike, or just relax on the beach.
🌴 Bali’s Tropical Climate
Bali has a tropical monsoon climate, which means it’s warm and humid all year, with two distinct seasons:
Dry Season: April to October
Wet Season: November to March
☀️ Dry Season (April – October)
This is the best time to visit Bali for sunshine, beach days, and outdoor adventures.
Temperature: 27–32°C (80–90°F)
Humidity: Lower and more comfortable
Ideal for: Surfing, diving, hiking Mount Batur, beach clubs, festivals
Crowds: High during July and August (school holidays), but weather is at its best
✅ Best months for a Bali holiday: May, June, and September — great weather with fewer tourists and better prices.
🌧️ Wet Season (November – March)
Expect short, heavy showers, mostly in the afternoons or overnight, but plenty of dry spells too.
Temperature: 26–31°C (79–88°F)
Humidity: High
Ideal for: Spa days, yoga retreats, cultural experiences, fewer crowds
Surfers: Wet season is better for east coast surf spots (e.g., Nusa Dua, Sanur)
💡 Rain rarely ruins a day—just pack a poncho and embrace the lush, vibrant green landscapes that follow the showers.
🌀 Does Bali Have a Monsoon or Typhoon Season?
No. Bali doesn’t experience typhoons or hurricanes. While heavy rain and thunderstorms are common in the wet season, extreme weather is rare.
🧳 What to Pack Based on the Weather
Light, breathable clothing all year
A light rain jacket or poncho for wet season
Reef-safe sunscreen (the UV index is high)
A sarong or scarf for temple visits and sun protection
Flip-flops for the beach, sturdy shoes for hikes
✨ Final Tip
No matter when you visit, Bali's warm weather and welcoming atmosphere make it a year-round destination. Just choose the season that fits your travel style—and pack accordingly!
🌦️ Bali Weather Month-by-Month
Month | Temperature (°C) | Rainfall | Humidity | Season | Travel Tips & Highlights |
January | 26–30°C | 🌧️ High (Rainy) | High | Wet Season | Expect tropical downpours. Great for wellness retreats, cultural tours, and lower prices. |
February | 26–31°C | 🌧️ High | Very High | Wet Season | Rain continues but there are sunny breaks. Romantic escapes, waterfalls at their best. |
March | 26–31°C | 🌦️ Medium-High | High | Wet Season | Rain eases toward the end. A nice shoulder season for deals and fewer crowds. |
April | 27–32°C | 🌤️ Lower | Moderate | Start of Dry | Beginning of dry season—lush and green with improving weather. Ideal for outdoor activities. |
May | 27–32°C | 🌤️ Low | Moderate | Dry Season | One of the best months: sunny, uncrowded, great surf. |
June | 26–31°C | ☀️ Low | Lower | Dry Season | Comfortable weather, perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Great for family holidays. |
July | 25–30°C | ☀️ Very Low | Low | Peak Dry | Peak tourist season—book early. Amazing beach days and festivals. |
August | 25–30°C | ☀️ Very Low | Low | Peak Dry | Bali at its best: sunny skies, cultural events, and prime surfing in the west. |
September | 26–31°C | 🌤️ Low | Moderate | Dry Season | Great balance: sunny, fewer crowds, lower rates. Excellent for diving and snorkeling. |
October | 26–31°C | 🌦️ Increasing | Higher | End of Dry | Still warm and sunny early on. Start of shoulder season. |
November | 26–31°C | 🌧️ High | High | Wet Season | Rain picks up again. Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and better hotel deals. |
December | 26–30°C | 🌧️ Very High | High | Wet Season | Rainy but festive—Christmas & New Year are busy. Book early if visiting over the holidays. |
☀️☀️ Best Time to Visit Bali
Dry season (April to October): Best for beach days, surfing, and outdoor adventures.
Wet season (November to March): Expect humidity, rain showers, and lush landscapes—but fewer tourists and better deals. Those in the know say wet season rotates in 'heavyness' 2025's wet season was incredibly WET! Mass flooding and lot's of rain. The kind of rain that doesn't go away for days (even weeks in some cases). We found this year quite tough. Whereas 2024 was a very dry wet season (according to locals). Book accordingly, but there is still lot's to do even in wet season and there are far less crowds.
🌅 Best months for a Bali holiday: May, June, and September—great weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices.
🗣️ Language in Bali: What You Need to Know
While you don’t need to be fluent to enjoy your Bali holiday, understanding the local language and a few key phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and connecting with Balinese culture.
🏝️ What Language is Spoken in Bali?
Bali is part of Indonesia, so the official language is Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia). However, most locals also speak Balinese, a regional language with its own unique script and traditions.
In tourist areas like Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and Uluwatu, many people—especially those working in hospitality—speak basic to fluent English.
💬 Commonly Used Languages:
Indonesian – official language, used in schools and government
Balinese – spoken by locals in villages and during ceremonies
English – widely spoken in tourist zones, restaurants, and hotels
Other languages – You’ll also hear some French, Russian, Chinese, and Korean, especially in popular travel hotspots
🗨️ Useful Indonesian Phrases for Travelers
English | Indonesian | Pronunciation |
Hello | Halo | HAH-loh |
Thank you | Terima kasih | tuh-REE-mah KAH-see |
You're welcome | Sama-sama | SAH-mah SAH-mah |
Yes / No | Ya / Tidak | yah / TEE-dahk |
Excuse me / Sorry | Maaf | mah-AHF |
How much? | Berapa harganya? | ber-AH-pah HAR-gah-nyah |
I don’t understand | Saya tidak mengerti | SAH-yah TEE-dahk meng-ER-tee |
Delicious! | Enak! | EH-nahk |
🧒 Bonus: “Bagus!” (BAH-goos) means “Good!” – perfect to say to kids, food vendors, or new friends.
An easy-to-follow, beginner-friendly guide to help you start learning the language without feeling overwhelmed. With:
Common Phrases for Everyday Use
Basic Pronunciation Tips
Essential Vocab for Travel & Relocation
Cultural Insights To avoid common faux pas in Bali.
📍 Where to Stay: Best Areas in Bali for Your Holiday
Bali isn’t just beaches—each area offers a totally different vibe. Here’s a quick breakdown:
1. Canggu
Trendy, surfy, and Instagrammable. Think smoothie bowls, beach clubs, and co-working cafes. Great for digital nomads, families, and young couples.
2. Ubud
The spiritual and cultural heart of Bali. Ideal for yoga lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking to slow down. Don’t miss the rice terraces, waterfalls, and traditional Balinese ceremonies.
3. Seminyak
Upscale and stylish, with boutique shopping, high-end dining, and beach resorts. Perfect for those who want luxury without the party scene.
4. Uluwatu
Cliffside views, world-class surf, and epic sunsets. Great for surfers, honeymooners, and anyone looking for a quieter, scenic escape. And our home!
5. Sanur
Relaxed and family-friendly, with calm beaches and a laid-back vibe. Ideal for travellers with young kids or older visitors.
6. Nusa Dua
Home to luxury resorts and gated communities. Great for honeymooners or anyone looking for a fully serviced holiday.
7. Nusa Islands (Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Penida)
Perfect for a quick island-hopping adventure. Crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, and some of the best snorkelling/diving in Bali.
🛍️ Best Markets in Bali: Where to Shop Like a Local
Exploring Bali’s markets is one of the best ways to experience local life, support small businesses, and find unique treasures that go far beyond the typical souvenir. From vibrant art markets to hidden local gems and weekly creative pop-ups, here are the best markets in Bali to add to your itinerary.
🎨 1. Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud)
📍 Ubud Central The most iconic market in Bali, set in the heart of Ubud. Here you'll find handcrafted goods, sarongs, rattan bags, wood carvings, and beautiful souvenirs made by Balinese artisans.
🛎️ Best for: Traditional Balinese crafts🕗 When to go: Early morning for cooler temps and better deals
👗 2. Seminyak Flea Market
📍 Seminyak, near the beach A relaxed, boho-style market near Seminyak Beach selling beachwear, jewelry, decor, and fashionable souvenirs. Great for mixing shopping with a seaside stroll.
🛎️ Best for: Trendy travelers looking for beach style and accessories
🎭 3. Sukawati Art Market
📍 Gianyar (20 mins from Ubud) One of Bali’s oldest and most affordable art markets, where locals shop for ceremonial items, textiles, and wooden carvings. Less polished but very authentic.
🛎️ Best for: Budget-friendly, bulk souvenir shopping
🌃 4. Sanur Night Market (Pasar Malam Sindu)
📍 Sanur This local market is all about the street food. Think sizzling satay, nasi goreng, and sweet martabak pancakes at very local prices. A must-visit if you're in Sanur.
🛎️ Best for: Foodies on a budget🕗 When to go: After 6 PM
🛋️ 5. Tegallalang Handicraft Center
📍 Near Ubud A long stretch of roadside artisan shops selling homewares, rattan furniture, baskets, and wall hangings. Great for inspiration or shipping home something special.
🛎️ Best for: Interior design lovers📦 Shipping available from many vendors
📍 Hatch Bali, Uluwatu A creative, family-friendly Sunday market in one of Uluwatu’s coolest venues. It features local artisans, eco-friendly brands, fashion, handmade jewelry, vintage finds, art, and delicious food. There’s often live music, kids’ activities, and a community vibe that makes it a weekend highlight.
🛎️ Best for: Conscious shopping, supporting small local brands, meeting the expat and creative community🕗 When: Every Sunday, usually from 10 AM to 4 PM💡 Insider tip: Come hungry and stay for brunch or chill in the garden after browsing.
🧵 7. Kuta Art Market
📍 Kuta Beachfront Touristy but convenient, the Kuta Art Market is full of budget souvenirs like t-shirts, sarongs, and paintings. It’s a good stop if you’re staying in Kuta or Legian.
🛎️ Best for: Quick souvenir shopping near the beach
🧺 Final Tip: Market Etiquette
Cash is king—bring small notes in Indonesian Rupiah
Haggling is normal but always do it respectfully
Go early for cooler weather and better deals
Keep an eye out for ceremonial offerings on the ground
Markets in Bali aren’t just about buying things—they’re about soaking up local culture, connecting with artisans, and making memories. Whether you’re treasure hunting in Ubud or chilling at Hatch with handmade kombucha and live tunes, there’s a market for every kind of traveler.
🛕 Best Temples in Bali: Sacred Sites You Can’t Miss
Bali is known as the “Island of the Gods”, and for good reason. The island is home to over 20,000 temples, from cliffside shrines to jungle sanctuaries. Visiting Bali's temples offers a deep dive into its rich spiritual culture, stunning architecture, and ritual life that’s still very much alive today.
Whether you're seeking a cultural experience, photography opportunity, or moment of quiet reflection, these are the most iconic and beautiful temples in Bali.
🌊 1. Tanah Lot Temple
📍 Tabanan, West Bali One of Bali’s most famous temples, Tanah Lot sits dramatically on a rock just offshore and is especially magical at sunset. The temple is dedicated to sea spirits and is one of seven sea temples that protect Bali's coastline.
🛎️ Best for: Sunset views and iconic photography💡 Tip: Arrive 1–2 hours before sunset to explore before the crowds arrive
🌅 2. Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu)
📍 Uluwatu Cliffs, South Bali Perched 70 meters above the Indian Ocean, this temple offers breathtaking cliff views and is home to Bali’s famous sunset Kecak fire dance. Watch out for cheeky monkeys that patrol the grounds!
🛎️ Best for: Culture meets natural beauty🎭 Don’t miss: Kecak dance at 6 PM with ocean sunset backdrop
🌿 3. Tirta Empul Temple
📍 Tampaksiring, near Ubud This is Bali’s most important water temple, famous for its holy spring baths where visitors come to purify themselves in sacred water. It’s an immersive cultural and spiritual experience.
🛎️ Best for: Spiritual rituals and authentic Balinese culture💡 What to bring: Sarong and towel (or rent on-site)
🏞️ 4. Besakih Temple (Mother Temple)
📍 Mount Agung, East Bali The largest and holiest temple complex in Bali, Besakih sits on the slopes of Mount Agung. It consists of over 80 temples and is a pilgrimage site for locals. The location is grand and atmospheric.
🛎️ Best for: Temple enthusiasts and history lovers⚠️ Tip: Dress modestly and be cautious of unofficial “guides”
💎 5. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
📍 Lake Beratan, Bedugul This floating temple on a lake looks like something out of a postcard. Surrounded by misty mountains and often reflected in the still water, it’s one of Bali’s most photogenic spots.
🛎️ Best for: Nature lovers and photographers💡 Best time to visit: Early morning for mirror-like lake reflections
🌺 6. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave Temple)
📍 Ubud outskirts This 9th-century sanctuary is known for its mystical carvings and cave entrance, plus tranquil gardens and bathing pools. It’s small but rich in history and symbolism.
🛎️ Best for: A quick but meaningful cultural stop💡 Family-friendly: Flat paths and easy access
🧘 7. Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven)
📍 East Bali Famous for the “Gates of Heaven” photo with Mount Agung in the background, Lempuyang Temple is actually part of a complex of several temples spread up a mountainside. The journey is long but the views are epic.
🛎️ Best for: Instagram-worthy views and adventurous travelers⚠️ Note: Be prepared for a steep hike if visiting the upper temples
🧍♀️Temple Etiquette & Tips
Dress modestly: Sarong and sash are required (rentals usually available)
Respect ceremonies: Do not enter temple inner sanctums unless invited
Women on their period are traditionally not allowed to enter temple grounds
Go early or late to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures
Whether you're watching the sun dip behind Tanah Lot or cleansing in the waters of Tirta Empul, these sacred sites are essential to any Bali holiday itinerary—offering moments of peace, perspective, and awe.
🏖️ Must-Do Experiences on Your Bali Holiday
Watch the sunset at Tanah Lot Temple
Take a sunrise trek up Mount Batur
Snorkel or dive in Amed or Nusa Penida
Visit Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Swing over the jungle in Ubud
Do a Water Purification Ceremony (see our Melukat Water Ceremony on the blog here)
Catch traditional dance at Uluwatu Temple
Relax with a Balinese massage at a spa
Eat your way through local warungs
Spend a day at a beach club (La Brisa, Finns, Potato Head)
🌴 Must-Do Things in Bali: The Ultimate Bucket List
From jungle adventures to beach bliss, Bali offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or as a family with kids, these must-do activities will give you a taste of the magic that makes Bali one of the world’s favourite holiday destinations.
Here are just a few essentials to add to your Bali holiday itinerary:
🧖♀️ 1. Enjoy a Traditional Balinese Massage
Relax and unwind with a soothing, full-body massage—often for less than the price of a cocktail back home!
🐒 2. Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest
Walk among ancient trees, mossy temples, and curious long-tailed macaques in this sacred nature reserve.
🌅 3. Watch the Sunset in Canggu or Uluwatu
Grab a beanbag, order a coconut or cocktail, and watch the sun dip into the Indian Ocean from a beach bar.
🌊 4. Try Surfing or Paddleboarding
Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta are perfect for beginners, while Uluwatu offers world-class waves for pros.
🧘 5. Take a Yoga or Wellness Class
From jungle studios to oceanfront decks, Bali is a global hub for wellness and self-discovery.
🍲 6. Eat Local at a Warung
Try traditional dishes like nasi campur, mie goreng, or babi guling at a local roadside eatery for a truly authentic taste.
🌋 7. Hike Mount Batur for Sunrise
One of Bali’s most iconic treks, the early wake-up is worth it for panoramic views above the clouds.
🛕 8. Tour the Island’s Iconic Temples
From the sea cliffs of Uluwatu to the holy springs of Tirta Empul, Bali’s temples are not to be missed.
💦 9. Chase Waterfalls in the North
Trek through lush jungle to discover stunning falls like Sekumpul, Gitgit, or Tibumana.
🛍️ 10. Shop Handmade at a Local Market
Pick up artisan crafts, fashion, and souvenirs at Bali’s vibrant markets in Ubud, Seminyak, and beyond.
🍜 What to Eat in Bali
Nasi Goreng: Indonesia’s famous fried rice
Mie Goreng: Fried noodles with veggies and egg
Nasi Campur: Rice with assorted small sides. The best Nasi Campur we ate was at Sun Sun Warung in Ubud. You have to try this place.
Satay: Skewered grilled meat with peanut sauce
Babi Guling: Traditional Balinese roast pork (non-halal)
Vegans and vegetarians will find plenty of options too—especially in Canggu and Ubud.
Grab and Gojek will be your friend and you can order any type of food delivered to your accommodation via these apps. The food options are so good in Bali. You can order any type of cusine. My Top Tip: ensure these are downloaded before you leave.
💧Can you Drink the Water in Bali?
No. Drink bottled water. Brush teeth with bottled water. Wash salad with bottled water. Make ice from bottled water. Top Tip: Even for a 1 week holiday - Buy a big water for around 20,000 IDR which should last a family of 4 around 3 days. This will save having to keep picking up water every day.
🛜 Internet & SIM Cards
SIM cards with data are cheap and easy to buy at the airport or local shops.
Top providers: Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat
Wi-Fi is widely available, but patchy in remote areas. Cafes, villas, and co-working spaces usually have decent speeds.
For all of our full time travel we use an E-sim but find that data is so cheap in Bali that it's best to just buy a local sim when you land. Most shops sell them. We use the E-sim for Si's phone to just ensure that we are connected for when we land at the airport and need to book Grab or Gojek taxi and be connected straight away. But everyone else in the family waits to get to a local shop. Prices are super cheap in Bali for data.
🛏️ Accommodation Tips
From budget hostels to luxury villas, Bali has it all. We are currently building our own villa in Bali and hope to share a full guide on buying land in Bali and building as a foreigner, but whilst this happens we rent a 2 bed villa with pool by the month through a local lady and this is how we manage to keep our budget. But overall we really struggle to find 3 bedroom properties to rent and usually go for 2 bedrooms and the kids share (which isn't ideal but they make do until our place is built). Check out our monthly villa video rental here for a house tour and prices!
For a month long rental in Uluwatu for family (with 2 bedrooms and private pool) we recommend Jobon Villas by Great Bali Villas. Or Villa Allegra - Or Villa Casa Luxury (my fave)- 3 homes where you can actually 'live' rather than just be staying as a guest. To experience life in Bali. There are many more options if you only need 1 bedroom. In fact you'll be spoilt for choice.
For shorter stays we find the most beautiful looking properties are to be fond on Platforms like Airbnb. But we personally love Booking.com for the more budget friendly places and homestays. In the early days of travel we stayed in the super cheap basic homestays. Really basic and I don't recommend many of them. They were great for what we needed and really helped us with out budget. But every so often we came across a gem and we happily share these with you in our Accommodation Guide. First up in the Ubud area is The Jungle Villa for tucked away lush tropical jungle living in beautiful wooden huts, an awesome pool and serves a nice breakfast too. Downside is it's only accessible by bike so taxi will drop you at the end and staff will come collect you and your luggage on bikes.
In Nusa Lembongan Harta Villas offer well priced accommodation in raised wooden Bali huts with an awesome swimming pool and beautiful lush gardens. We'll share more as we find them with you here.
🏡 Traveling with kids? Consider a private villa with a pool and kitchen for more flexibility.
💡 Essential Bali Holiday Travel Tips
Respect local customs: Dress modestly at temples, never touch someone’s head, and always use your right hand when giving or receiving.
Pack light, breathable clothing and always bring a sarong for temple visits.
Don’t drink tap water—buy bottled or use a filter.
Bali Belly is real—ease into local food, and pack probiotics or charcoal tablets just in case.
🧘♀️ Is Bali Good for Families?
Yes! Bali is surprisingly family-friendly. From kids’ clubs and soft-play cafes to waterfalls, monkeys, beaches, and even water parks—there’s plenty to do with children of all ages.
Here's My 👨👩👧👦 10 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Bali:
🦁 1. Visit Bali Safari & Marine Park
A full-on wildlife experience where kids can see lions, zebras, elephants, and tigers from a safari bus. There are animal shows, a petting zoo, and even night safaris.
📍 Gianyar 🎟️ Great for: Ages 2+
🛝 2. Splash Around at Waterbom Bali
Asia’s #1 water park is packed with thrill slides, lazy rivers, toddler play zones, and lush tropical gardens. It’s a hit for all ages—and parents too!
📍 Kuta 🎟️ Great for: Toddlers to teens
🐒 3. Explore the Ubud Monkey Forest
Wander through this jungle sanctuary filled with over 1,000 monkeys, ancient temples, and giant banyan trees. Educational and exciting (just hide the snacks!).
📍 Ubud 🎟️ Great for: School-aged kids
🎨 4. Take a Balinese Art or Cooking Class
Get hands-on with local culture—kids can make offerings, paint batik, or learn how to cook nasi goreng. Many workshops are family-friendly and fun.
📍 Ubud, Canggu & Seminyak 🎟️ Great for: Ages 5+
🏝️ 5. Spend the Day at Finns Recreation Club
A kid’s paradise with trampolines, bowling, a water park, tennis courts, and indoor play zones. Perfect for when parents need a break too.
📍 Canggu 🎟️ Great for: All ages
Or another kid friendly day club such as Titi Batu (Udud) or Folk (Ubud)
🐬 6. Go Dolphin Watching in Lovina
Take a boat ride at sunrise and watch wild dolphins leap out of the water. Combine it with a beach picnic or waterfall stop on the way back.
📍 North Bali 🎟️ Great for: Nature-loving families
🐢 7. Visit Turtle Conservation Centres
Kids can see baby turtles, learn about marine life, and even release hatchlings back into the sea at various conservation programs.
📍 Serangan Island or Kuta Beach 🎟️ Great for: Ages 3+
🚲 8. Take a Family-Friendly Bike Tour
Cycle through rice paddies, local villages, and temples—many tours include child seats or small bikes for older kids. A gentle, scenic way to see the island.
📍 Ubud area🎟️ Great for: Ages 6+
🧺 9. Have Breakfast with the Orangutans at Bali Zoo
One of Bali’s most unique experiences! Enjoy a jungle breakfast buffet while orangutans play nearby, followed by a day of meeting animals and exploring the zoo.
📍 Sukawati, Gianyar 🎟️ Best for: All ages💡 Tip: Book in advance—it’s very popular!
🌋 10. Trek to a Waterfall or Volcano (Kid Version!)
Choose easy-access waterfalls like Tibumana or Tegenungan, or take older kids on a sunrise trek up Mount Batur for serious bragging rights.
📍 Various locations 🎟️ Great for: Adventure-loving kids (age 6+ for hikes)
🧳 Bonus Tip for Parents:
Bali is full of kid-friendly cafes too, family villas with pools, and babysitting services, making it easy to balance sightseeing with downtime.
📅 Major Festivals + Holidays in Bali 2025/2026
The majority of Indonesian people are Muslim. But in Bali the majority are mainly Balinese Hindu's. There are many different religious holidays in Bali and Indonesia because it's a multi-faith country and all are accorded equal respect. The dates of some of these national holidays will vary each year as they are often based on the lunar calendar or the Balinese calendar which do not align exactly with the Gregorian Calendar.
Indonesian Independence Day – Sunday, 17 August 2025 and Monday, 17 August 2026.
New Year’s Day – the traditional Western New Year January 1st falls on a Wednesday in 2025 and a Thursday in 2026
International Labor Day – Thursday, May 1 2025 and Monday, September 7 2026.
Pancasila Day – Sunday, June 1 2025 and Monday, June 1 2026.
Galungan & Kuningan – Taking place twice a year. A celebration of the triumph of good over evil. Wednesday, 23 April 2025 and Saturday, 3 May 2025. Then Wednesday, 19 November 2025 and Saturday, 29 November 2025. In 2026 there will be only one on June 17 and June 26.
Hari Raya Nyepi (The Balinese New Year / Hindu New Year) – March 29, 2025 and then again on March 19, 2026 The “festival of silence” and hari raya Nyepi is the most important day in Bali. A public holiday that is celebrated by people staying at home in quiet contemplation. Even the airport is closed for this one of the island’s public holidays and you should expect to spend the day in your hotel/villa/resort as you’re not allowed to go out on this day in Bali.
✨ Final Thoughts
A Bali holiday is more than just a tropical escape—it’s a chance to reconnect with nature, explore a rich culture, and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re surfing in Uluwatu, doing yoga in Ubud, or eating nasi goreng at a roadside warung, Bali has a way of getting under your skin—in the best possible way.
And because I’ve lived here, you’re getting the inside scoop—the real Bali, beyond the brochure.
Ready to plan your Bali holiday? Stay tuned for my top guides on:
Best things to do with kids
How to live in Bali on a budget
Hidden gems beyond the tourist path
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💡HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡
✈️ - FLIGHTS - We use this flight checker to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more
🏨 - ACCOMMODATION - We use this hotels checker to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more
🧭🗺️👣 - BALI TOURS & GUIDES - We use Get Your Guide for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings.
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