5 Best Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia

From the cool climes of Kintamani to the exciting dives at Nusa Penida, check out Jetpac’s top picks on what to do in Bali.

When it comes to Bali, it’s easy to write it off as an overrated touristy hotspot. But Bali isn’t just Uluwatu, Canggu, or Kuta — it’s also an island with beautiful mountains, fascinating shipwrecks, and more. So skip the long lines and traffic jams and go where the locals go — whether you’re a first-time traveler or a veteran pro, here’s a primer on Jetpac’s top 5 things to do while you’re in Bali.

Escape the tropical heat in Kintamani

Thinking of getting away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud? A region in the foothills of Mount Batur, Kintamani is a popular getaway pick for locals. Thanks to its higher elevation, you can enjoy cooler temperatures and discover beautiful lakes and lush landscapes.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Batur, Pura Ulun Danu is a must-visit for those looking to spend some time in nature. With stunning views of Mount Batur and its surroundings, it’s a calm respite from the scorching temperatures Bali is usually known for. You can also opt for a sunrise hike on the mountain itself, which takes approximately 2 hours. Feeling lazy? Find a spot at one of the many cafes that line Penelokan Road and take in the impressive views of the mountain with a hot cup of tea.

Visiting Kintamani with a private car is recommended, as the terrain can be challenging and muddy, especially during monsoon season. Depending on the time of year, it takes generally 2 to 3 hours from Ubud to get to Kintamani.

Catch a glimpse of the shipwreck at Tulamben

Head to the eastern coast of Bali and discover one of the best dive spots on the Island. Torpedoed during World War 2, the US freighter Liberty was beached on the shores of Tulamben. An eruption by Mount Agung in 1963 shifted the remains of the ship into the sea, where it sank 30 meters deep. Now home to colorful fish and other marine life, this dive and nearby dive sites have become an increasingly popular pick for beginner and pro divers alike.

From Denpasar, it can take up to 3 hours to reach the small fishing village of Tulamben. You can usually opt for a dive tour group to arrange transportation and equipment — the dive to the Liberty wreck itself ranges from 5 to 30 meters deep. Due to its relatively short distance from the shore, divers can swim to the wreckage directly from the water. If you’re looking to experience the wreck in the nighttime, many dive tour companies also offer night swims, where you can see the resident school of bumphead parrotfish who call the Liberty home.

Get a taste of traditional Balinese life at Penglipuran Village

Built within a bamboo forest, Penglipuran Village has become a must-visit destination for those interested in learning more about Balinese culture. Situated in the highlands of Bangli, East Bali, the village features preserved traditional Balinese architecture and houses, the latter of which you can enter. A traditional temple sits on the end of the main street, with the stairs leading up to it offering a good overview of the whole village. You can also buy traditional Balinese souvenirs from the locals, though it’s important to haggle beforehand!

If you're heading from Southern Bali, it might take up to 2 hours to get to Penglipuran Village by car. It’s recommended to rent your own car or motorcycle, as public transportation is usually concentrated within Denpasar. There is an entrance fee for both locals and tourists, the former costing around IDR 25,000 and the latter around IDR 50,000.

Go island hopping at Nusa Penida

Bored of Bali? It’s unlikely, but if you need a break, Nusa Penida is just a short boat ride away. A hidden gem of a getaway, the island is just southeast off Bali’s coast and features many natural wonders. From Kelingking Beach — which means ‘Little Finger Beach’ — to Angel’s Billabong, the island is full of places to explore.

Nusa Penida is also home to many snorkeling and diving spots, where you can swim alongside manta rays and colorful reef fish. A day trip is the most popular option if you’re pressed for time, but to experience fully what the island has to offer, you can stay overnight on the island.

Many fast boats depart from Sanur, with tickets starting at around IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 10). You can also opt to go by ferry - this allows you to bring a scooter with you - but prepare for long waits as ferries to the island are often late! For accommodation on the island, you can find a wide variety of places to stay, starting from hostels to full-service resorts.

Challenge yourself at Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon

If you’re looking to go on a nature adventure during your stay in Bali, Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon is worth visiting. Carved by centuries of erosion, the canyon features towering, twisted rock formations, narrow passages, and cascading streams. The trek through the canyon is relatively challenging, as it involves wading through waist-deep water, climbing rocks, and squeezing through narrow spaces.

The canyon is located in Sukawati, just less than an hour away from Denpasar. Other than renting your own car or motorbike, one of the best ways to experience the canyon is through a tour company, as they will also arrange transportation and any equipment you might need. Otherwise, be prepared to shell out around IDR 200,000 for an entrance fee that includes access to a towel, locker, and lunch. During the monsoon season (November to March), however, it might be best to avoid visiting, as the water levels can rise exponentially.

Frequently asked questions about Bali

When is the best time to go to Bali?

For most tourists, the best time to visit is during Bali’s dry season, which occurs from May to October. With sunny weather and great temperatures, you can experience the best Bali has to offer. However, prices will be up as well.

If you’re looking for a more affordable time to travel, try going during monsoon season. While it can rain heavily during the day, most weeks will still have sunny or overcast days.

Where should I stay in Bali?

It depends on your budget and preference. While touristy, Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu are where you can find budget-friendly accommodations and restaurants. If you’re looking to stay in a less touristy area, consider Sanur instead — though prices can go up depending on where you’re looking. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, one of the many resorts that line Nusa Dua’s beaches is a great pick thanks to its private beaches and top-notch rooms.

Is Bali safe?

Bali is a safe destination for travelers in general. However, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded, touristy areas in case of pickpockets. While generally safe, women should also take extra care when walking alone late at night. Don’t forget to trust your gut and be wary of common scams, as they’re generally targeted towards tourists.

Getting around Bali is easy with Jetpac

Before you head off, don’t forget to get your Jetpac travel eSIM. Whether you’re braving Canggu traffic or on the way up to Kintamani, Jetpac can help you stay connected no matter where you go. Plus, with 5G available on all supported devices, your internet speeds will be faster than ever. Island-wide coverage is all but guaranteed, so there’s no need to wifi-hop or pay for pricey SIM cards at the airport. What are you waiting for? Get your Indonesia eSIM at Jetpac today!