BALI, INDONESIA
Bali, often called the “Island of the Gods,” is a tropical paradise in Indonesia known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich spiritual traditions. This enchanting island offers something for every traveler, from the lush rice terraces of Ubud to the lively surf spots in Kuta. Visitors can explore ancient temples, indulge in world-class cuisine, and experience the warmth of Balinese hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Bali’s unique charm and breathtaking landscapes make it an unforgettable destination.
HOTELS
Budget-Friendly Hotels
The Pavilion Hotel Kuta
The Pavilion Hotel Kuta is a great choice if you want to be in the heart of Kuta’s nightlife and shopping scene. Just a 10-minute walk from Kuta Beach and Beachwalk Shopping Center, it’s perfectly located to easily access the area’s attractions.
The hotel features an inviting outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery, a peaceful garden area, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour front desk to assist with any needs.
The cozy rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a private balcony or terrace with views of the garden or pool area—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Cara Cara Inn
CARA CARA INN offers a unique stay in the lively heart of Kuta, just a short walk from the popular Waterbom Bali and Discovery Shopping Mall. This inn is known for its vibrant, youthful atmosphere, making it a top pick for social travelers.
The hotel features a playful outdoor pool area with colorful lounge spaces, perfect for meeting fellow travelers. The rooftop terrace is a great spot to unwind and take in the sunset, while the on-site cafe serves up light bites and refreshing drinks throughout the day.
Rooms at CARA CARA INN cater to different types of travelers, with both shared dormitory options and private rooms available. Each room is designed with a bright, modern aesthetic and equipped with air conditioning for your comfort. The inn also offers a social kitchen space where you can prepare your own meals and connect with other guests.
Luxury Resorts
Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa
Perched on the cliffs of Uluwatu, Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa offers a perfect blend of contemporary style and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. This resort combines modern luxury with the serene beauty of Bali’s southern coast.
The spacious rooms and suites feature private balconies that overlook the ocean, providing a peaceful retreat. The resort boasts a variety of dining options, including the creative Clay Craft Restaurant and the laid-back Roosterfish Beach Club. The cliffside infinity pool is a highlight, offering panoramic views that are especially breathtaking at sunset.
For those looking to unwind, the full-service spa, two outdoor pools, and fitness center with yoga classes provide plenty of relaxation options. The resort’s tranquil location, about 30 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport, makes it an easy-to-reach yet secluded escape. Guests often rave about the personalized service and the serene atmosphere that makes Renaissance Bali Uluwatu a standout choice.
The St. Regis Bali Resort
The St. Regis Bali Resort in Nusa Dua blends luxury with authentic Balinese culture, offering beachfront access and lush, tranquil surroundings. This resort is perfect for a peaceful, upscale escape.
Stay in spacious villas equipped with private plunge pools and enjoy the unmatched 24-hour butler service, known for its personalized attention—whether it’s unpacking your luggage or setting up drinks by the beach.
Dining here is a treat, with the renowned Sunday brunch at Boneka and a variety of cuisine at the resort’s other restaurants. For ultimate relaxation, the Remède Spa offers tailored treatments that guests rave about.
Just a 30-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, The St. Regis Bali Resort is an easy-to-reach destination that feels a world away, making it ideal for a luxurious retreat in Bali.
Viceroy Bali
Nestled in the lush valleys of Ubud, Viceroy Bali offers an intimate and luxurious escape with private pool villas overlooking the jungle. This family-owned resort is perfect for those seeking both privacy and comfort.
Each villa features a private heated pool, spacious living areas, and breathtaking views of the Petanu River Gorge. You can enjoy gourmet dining at the award-winning CasCades Restaurant, unwind at the Lembah Spa, or take a dip in the infinity pool that seems to float above the jungle.
Viceroy Bali is known for its secluded luxury and personalized service, making it a peaceful retreat just minutes from Ubud’s cultural heart. The resort is a 60-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, with complimentary transfers ensuring a smooth, luxurious arrival.
Activities
Banyumala Twin Waterfall
Banyumala Twin Waterfall, tucked away in the lush mountains of North Bali near Wanagiri, is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from Bali’s busier tourist spots. About a two-hour drive from Ubud, this waterfall features two cascading falls side by side, creating a serene natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim.
The trek to Banyumala takes you through dense jungle and across small streams, adding a sense of adventure to your visit. If you’re looking to relax and connect with nature, this secluded spot is the ideal retreat.
Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul Temple, located in the village of Manukaya near Tampaksiring, is one of Bali’s most revered water temples. Just a 30-minute drive from Ubud, this temple, founded in 962 AD, is famous for its sacred spring that feeds a series of purification pools. Both locals and tourists visit to bathe in these holy waters, believed to cleanse the soul and ward off evil.
The temple’s traditional Balinese architecture and lush gardens create a serene atmosphere, offering a unique glimpse into Bali’s rich spiritual culture. Whether you participate in the purification ritual or simply explore the beautiful grounds, Tirta Empul provides a meaningful connection to the island’s deep spiritual roots. Its proximity to Ubud makes it a must-see on your travel itinerary.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, located in the heart of Ubud, is one of the town’s most popular attractions. Home to over 700 long-tailed macaques, this lush forest is not only a natural reserve but also a spiritual site, featuring the 14th-century Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal temple.
Perfect for getting close to nature while experiencing Balinese culture, the sanctuary lets you wander shaded pathways, watch playful monkeys, and explore ancient temple ruins. Its central location in Ubud makes it an easy and memorable addition to your Bali adventure, offering a unique blend of wildlife and history.
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
Located in the Kintamani region, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Ubud, the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek is one of Bali’s most popular adventures. Starting before dawn, this moderately challenging hike takes about two hours to reach the summit of the active Mount Batur volcano. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over Lake Batur, with panoramic views extending to Mount Agung and even Mount Rinjani on Lombok.
Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek offers an unforgettable experience. The effort is well worth it, as the changing colors of the sky and stunning views create lasting memories. After the trek, you can unwind in the nearby hot springs, making for a perfect morning adventure.
Snorkeling at Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island, part of the West Bali National Park, is a snorkeling paradise located off Bali’s northwest coast, about a 3-hour drive from Ubud followed by a short boat ride. Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Menjangan offers some of Bali’s most pristine underwater ecosystems. You’ll find colorful coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle gliding by.
The island’s calm, shallow waters make it ideal for snorkelers of all levels, offering an easy yet incredibly rewarding experience. Many visitors rave about the visibility, which can extend up to 50 meters, allowing you to see the intricate details of the coral and the vibrant marine life up close. Menjangan Island’s reefs are among the healthiest in Bali, largely untouched and protected, providing a snorkeling adventure that feels both serene and awe-inspiring.
After snorkeling, you can explore the island’s small temple, Pura Segara Gili Menjangan, adding a cultural touch to your visit. This hidden gem is a must for marine enthusiasts and those looking to experience Bali’s natural beauty from a different perspective, making the journey to this remote corner of the island well worth it.
RESTAURANTS
Mozaic Gastronomic Restaurant
Mozaic Gastronomic Restaurant in Ubud is a must-visit for food lovers seeking a fine dining experience. Nestled in a beautiful garden setting, Mozaic blends Balinese ingredients with French culinary techniques, offering creative dishes that change with the seasons. Expect to spend around $70 to $100 per person, with popular options including the tasting menus, where each course is a work of art. The chocolate dessert is a standout, often hailed as the perfect way to end a meal.
Mozaic’s elegant atmosphere is ideal for special occasions or a memorable night out. Open for dinner from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the restaurant is known for its intimate and exclusive dining experience. With a 4.6 out of 5 rating on TripAdvisor, Mozaic is highly praised for its exceptional food and service, often described as a “must-visit” in Ubud.
Due to its popularity, reservations are strongly recommended. The restaurant also offers valet parking for added convenience. For more information or to secure your table, be sure to visit their website.
Merah Putih
Merah Putih in Seminyak, Bali, is a top spot for experiencing Indonesian cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant’s stunning design, featuring tall glass ceilings and lush greenery, creates an open and elegant atmosphere that’s perfect for a special night out.
Expect to spend around $40 to $50 per person, with the menu offering traditional Indonesian dishes presented with contemporary flair. Popular choices include the refined babi guling (Bali’s roast pig) and the flavorful sate lilit (minced fish skewers). These dishes are highly recommended and give a fresh take on classic flavors.
Merah Putih is open daily for dinner from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, making it an ideal spot for a memorable meal. With a 4.6 out of 5 rating on TripAdvisor, the restaurant is praised not only for its delicious food but also for its beautiful setting, often described as a “must-visit” for those wanting to explore Indonesian cuisine.
Given its popularity, it’s wise to book a table in advance. The restaurant also offers valet parking, ensuring a smooth and comfortable arrival. For more details or to make a reservation, visit their website.
Kubu at Mandapa
Kubu at Mandapa, located in the Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ubud, offers a luxurious dining experience right by the Ayung River. Known for its romantic setting, the restaurant features private dining cocoons that overlook the river, making it an intimate and unforgettable spot for a special evening.
Dining at Kubu ranges from $80 to $120 per person, with a menu focused on Mediterranean-European cuisine. Standout dishes like lobster ravioli and wagyu beef tenderloin are frequently praised for their exquisite flavors and presentation.
Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner, Kubu is open daily for dinner from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM. With a 4.8 out of 5 rating on TripAdvisor, the restaurant impresses guests with its elegant ambiance and exceptional cuisine, often being called a “must-visit” in Ubud.
Given its popularity, it’s wise to reserve a table in advance. For more details or to make a reservation, visit their website.
Kokokan
Kokokan, nestled in the peaceful area of Ubud, Bali, offers a serene dining experience surrounded by lush greenery. Focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant serves up authentic Balinese cuisine that highlights traditional flavors.
Meals at Kokokan are reasonably priced, ranging from $20 to $35 per person. Popular menu items include ayam bakar (grilled chicken) and nasi campur (a mixed rice dish with various side dishes), both loved for their rich, authentic flavors.
Kokokan provides a quiet escape from the busier parts of Ubud, making it a perfect spot for both lunch and dinner. Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, it’s a great choice for anyone seeking a genuine Balinese dining experience.
With a 4.5 out of 5 rating on Google Reviews, Kokokan is praised for its delicious food and tranquil ambiance, often described as a “must-visit” in Ubud. To secure your table, it’s best to book online.
Ji Restaurant
Ji Restaurant in Canggu, Bali, offers a unique blend of Japanese cuisine with a modern twist, all set in a traditional Japanese building that adds a special, cozy atmosphere. Meals typically range from $30 to $50 per person, with standout dishes like fresh sushi rolls and wagyū beef tataki, both loved for their bold flavors and quality.
Ji is a top choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience. Open daily from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite. The restaurant boasts a strong 4.6 out of 5 rating on Google Reviews, with many visitors calling it a “must-try” in Canggu, especially if you’re a fan of Japanese food with a modern flair.
To secure your spot, simply book a table through their website. Parking is available, and getting there by taxi or ride-sharing service is easy.