10 Amazing Things To See And Do In Bali Indonesia

Bali is an amazing and well-traveled island. As such it is incredibly hard to narrow down a list of ten things to do in Bali, Indonesia. There is a wide range of sights and activities to add to your itinerary which ranges from diving in crystal clear water, to hiking an active volcano! There is something for everyone – no matter your reason for visiting.

I hope this list provides a balance of things to see and do on the island (because a list of 10 temples would have been quite easy to make).

Here are some useful things to know if you’re headed to Bali!

Nature

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Located north of Ubud, this is the place to go if you want to capture the most awe-inspiring photos of Bali. Tegallalang offers views of cascading green rice terraces that are other-worldly! Spend some time taking in the views before heading back – there are many restaurants and cafes to enjoy while you’re here. Note that there is a small entry fee of 15,000 IDR required to enter the rice fields.

Visit Untouched Sidemen

Sideman is a secluded section of Bali that remains in a rather pristine condition. It’s located east of Ubud and is known for its numerous rice fields.

Accommodation in Sideman is fairly limited although the options available are great. Expect to choose between quaint homestays and charming boutique hotels – you won’t find the big-name brands here.

Enjoy a couple nights of tranquil Bali life before heading back to the craziness that is Kuta.

Culture and Sights

Kecak Fire Dance

There are a number of traditional Kecak fire dances happening around Bali. The most visually impressive for me was the dance performed at the Uluwatu temple. This dance took place at sunset – Uluwatu has an AMAZING sunset – and tells a story about the rise and fall of the Monkey King.

If you don’t know the story that is okay, visitors are given a playbill with an English description of each act.

This is another great stop on your Ubud itinerary.

Goa Gajah – Elephant Cave

Goa Gajah, also known as simply Elephant Cave, is a spectacular sight to see.

The caves and temple here have been used as a place of meditation for over 1,000 years!

The entry fee is only 15,000 IDR and I highly recommend taking the time to visit Gao Gajah.

Goa Gala-Gala

Goa Gala-Gala is one of the most uniquely interesting things I’ve seen in Bali.

This cave / underground house was carved out of the ground by Mangku Byasa over the course of 15 years! What is even more remarkable is the fact that the entire house was carved out through the use of traditional hand tools. It is truly a work of art!

It is now a popular tourist attraction as people from around the world come to marvel at the craftsmanship displayed at Goa Gal-Gala.

Abandoned Airplane in South Kuta, Near Pandawa beach

Oddly enough, one of the top things to do in Bali is to check out abandoned Aircraft. Bali is a resting place for numerous abandoned aircraft. Rumour has it that most of them were intended to serve as eye-catching restaurants and even homes! Unfortunately, the projects have all been abandoned or are on hiatus currently. Don’t let that stop you from checking them out though! The most accessible plane is located in South Kuta, near Pandawa Beach.

Tanah Lot

Not just another temple.

With an estimated 20,000 temples in Bali, you will never be able to see them all. But whatever you do make sure you make the trip to Bali’s most iconic and visually stunning temple. Tanah Lot is an Instagram photographers dream. It is a breathtaking sight at any hour of the day or night.

Even though it is one of the most recognizable sights in Bali, I had to include Tanah Lot on this list. I nearly missed it on my first trip to Bali and I don’t want you to make the same mistake!

Food

Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Restaurant)

Bebek Bengil, translated to Dirty Duck, is an amazing place to eat in Bali. The food and atmosphere combine to create one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in Indonesia!

It’s located in Ubud, so you will need to rent a scooter or hire a taxi to get there. But trust me, the drive is worth it!

Intimate, open-walled dining areas, surrounded by lush vegetation and rice paddies make this a must on any Bali itinerary.

Check out the website for their menu and more.

Meet up at Potato Head

Potato Head is an amazing place to spend your evening. Head here with friends before sunset and kick back with good food and drinks.

For the best experience try to snag lounge seating by the pool!

Once you’re done eating head down to the water for a peaceful walk along the beach.

Spice it up at La Finca Bali

If you’re looking for fine some fine Spanish Cuisine while in Bali, look no further than the La Finca Bali.

The restaurant sits in a quiet location in Canggu, a 10-minute walk north of Seminyak.

Go here for the relaxing atmosphere and delicious food!

Be sure to check out our Epic Bali Travel Planner if these pics inspired you to visit Bali!