Breathtaking rice paddies, gigantic waterfalls, impressive temples, snow-white sandy beaches, friendly locals, cosy nightlife and delicious food. Bali is a true paradise. Popular, but for a reason. I've been to Bali several times and each time I discover places I didn't know. Well-known, but also lesser-known. I like to share the most beautiful sights of Bali!
Map with Bali sights
If you are travelling to Bali for the first time, I can imagine that you have no idea where all the most beautiful places are. So check out the map below. It will help you spot the sights of Bali and help you plan your route.
When creating your itinerary, you may also need to figure out your accommodation in Bali. A popular choice among tourists is Seminyak, known for its vibrant nightlife and luxurious beachfront hotels. Given its popularity, finding a hotel here can be a challenge. You can check out this list of Seminyak hotels at https://www.all-balihotels.net/en/seminyak-hotels-19082/ to help you decide.
#1 Ubud
It's hard to get in anywhere because all the sights are beautiful. One place we always visit while travelling through Bali is Ubud. This little town, among the rice fields, has a certain atmosphere that I always like. It mixes culture with nature, nightlife with yoga sessions and ancient temples with trendy bars. For me, Ubud is one of the nicest places in Bali.
With the Ubud Monkey Forrest, the Goa Gajah temple, the Ubud Palace, Campuhan Ridge Walk, there is plenty to see. In the evening, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at one of the vale bars or pop into a spa.
Regardless of where you decide to stay in Bali, ensuring you're getting the most value out of your accommodation is crucial. Rates and availability of hotels can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the location. To help you make an informed decision, you can compare prices and reviews of various hotels at tophotels.com before making your final booking.
Want to know more? Our info on Ubud
Cozy streets in Ubud
Views of the rice fields around Ubud
#2 Mount Batur
Mount Batur is one of two volcanoes in Bali. The other is Agung. Both volcanoes can be climbed. It's a serious hike to the top, but the view is magical. With clear weather, almost the entire island can be seen. The volcano can be climbed on a tour. Almost all tours are sunrise tours, where you leave in the middle of the night to be at the top at sunrise.
Standing on top of Batur and watching the landscape slowly turn golden/orange is a goose-bump moment. Batur is easier to climb than Agung. In two to three hours, you will be at the top. Anyone with reasonable fitness can do this tour.
Want to know more? Our info on Gunung Batur
The view of Gunung Agung from Batur
#3 Gunung Agung
Speaking of volcanoes: Gunung Agung, Bali's other volcano, can also be climbed. The idea is the same. Here too, you can book a sunrise tour to see the sun rise. Like on Batur, the views here are truly stunning.
Agung is almost twice as high as Batur. At 3,031 metres, it is Bali's highest mountain and the climb is pretty tough. Batur is a real 'tourist climb' while Agung attracts slightly more serious climbers. If you dare, you will also be rewarded with spectacular views.
Want to know more? Our info on Gunung Agung
Gunung Agung as seen from Jemeluk Beach
#4 Jatiluwih
If you're talking about Bali's most beautiful sights, Jatiluwih is definitely not to be missed. The rice fields of Jatiluwih are among the most beautiful in Indonesia. They are just over an hour's drive from Ubud and can be visited without a tour.
It's an ideal day trip. Hop on the back of a scooter in Ubud and explore this stunning region. It is best to visit the rice paddies from February to April. During these months, the rice fields change from green to yellow. So after this period, the rice paddies are not green.
Want to know more? Our info on Jatiluwih
The rice terraces of Jatiluwih
#5 Ulun Danu Temple
Temples abound in Bali. One of the most beautiful is Ulun Danu Temple. It is not a big temple. It is mainly the location on Baratan Lake that makes the temple so impressive. The temple is dedicated to goddess of the lake. Unlike many other temples in Bali, it is peaceful here.
The temple can be reached within an hour by taxi from Ubud.
Pura Ulun Danu temple
#6 Sidemen
Of all Bali's sights, Sidemen is still somewhat undiscovered. The town is east of Bali is a paradise for people who like to stay among the green rice fields. You can visit the most beautiful rice fields, spot waterfalls, go rafting or visit traditional markets.
Sidemen is what Ubud was 50 years ago. Tourism is still in its infancy, which is unique in Bali today. Don't wait too long, as more and more travellers know how to find this special place.
The rice fields in Sidemen
#7 Canggu
Canggu is one of Bali's nicest beach resorts. It is not far from busy, touristy Kuta. Although Canggu is certainly not pristine, it feels very convivial. The atmosphere here is a lot more relaxed with fun beach bars and trendy restaurants.
There is plenty to do nearby. You can learn to surf here, visit rice fields, take yoga classes, take cooking classes and visit one of Bali's most famous temples: Pura Tanah Lot. Canggu is a must-see as far as I'm concerned!
Want to know more? Our info on Canggu
Sunset on Canggu
#8 Pura Tanah Lot
While you are in Canggu, a visit to Bali's most famous temple should not be missed. This is one of Bali's most famous sights. Almost everyone who travels to Bali visits these temples.
For the locals, the Pura Tanah Lotis one of the most important 'sea-coloured' temples in Indonesia. Like the Pura Luhur Ulu Watu, in southern Bukit, and Pura Rambut Siwi in the west, the temple is closely associated with the Hindu priest Nirartha.
It is especially stunning here during sunset.
Want to know more? Our info on Pura Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot
#9 Uluwatu Temple
If you want to visit another temple, Uluwatu is a good option. Located in southeastern Bali, it is among Bali's best sights. This is mainly because of its spectacular location on the rugged cliffs of the coast.
The temple is believed to have been built to protect Bali from evil sea spirits. The only thing protecting the temple now are the many monkeys running loose. So keep a close eye on your sunglasses and backpack! The best time to visit the temple is during sunset.
Sunset with the Uluwatu on the cliffs
#10 Tegallalang
Close to Ubud, you will find the rice fields of Tegallalang. Of all the rice paddies in Bali, these are the most famous. Flip open a travel guide or Google on 'rice paddies in Bali' and chances are Tegallalang will come up. This is for good reason.
Being easily accessible from Ubud, they are very popular with day-trippers, but the rice paddies here are very beautiful. The rice fields are located in a small valley. You can walk through them or enjoy the beautiful view in one of the tea houses.
The rice fields of Tegallalang
#11 Nusa Dua Beach
A well-known beach in Bali, Nusa Dua Beach is in the southeast of the island. It is close to Kuta making it easily accessible. Unfortunately, the beach is resort-owned, but you can get there. Sometimes for a fee. You never know in Bali.
You can swim and surf well here or just enjoy the Indonesian sun. It is a fine destination if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Kuta.
Nusa beach
#12 Padang Padang Beach
Padang Padang Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali. It is sandwiched between rocks. It is not big, but it is impressive. This beach is also featured in the 2010 film Eat, Pray, Love.
It looks like a pristine beach which is difficult to reach, but nothing could be further from the truth. On the cliffs above the beach you will find some good accommodation, restaurants and lots of things to do. The beach is definitely worth a visit.
Padang Padang
#13 Dreamland Beach
If you're at Padang Beach, you might as well drive by Dreamland Beach. This is just around the corner. It has been popular among tourists for years. Especially those who love surfing have come to the right place.
The beach is close to famous Kuta. As a result, you get there pretty quickly, but you're also definitely not alone. You can have a drink or eat at the surrounding resort.
Dreamland Beach in Bali
#15 Nyang Nyang Beach
Nyang Nyang Beach is sometimes called 'secret beach'. To what extent that is possible in Bali. It lies near well-known spots like Bingin, Padang Padang and Uluwatu. Unlike these places, Nyang Nyang Beach is not yet so commercial.
Apart from a beautiful beach, you won't really find anything there. Jet is an ideal place to unwind without encountering vendors or listening to music from beach bars.
Nyang Nyang
#16 Sekumpul Waterfall
About 60 kilometres from Ubud, lies the Sekumpul waterfall. According to many, the most beautiful waterfall in Bali. The waterfall is actually a series of seven waterfalls, covering Bali's green jungle like a long misty curtain.
You can easily get here by taxi. Beware of locals charging entrance fees. Indeed, these do not apply there. You can also hire a guide, who will show you not only the waterfall, but also the surrounding rice terraces and local villages.
Sekumpul
#17 Seminyak
Located on Bali's south-west coast, Seminyak is a small town near Kuta. Despite its proximity to Kuta, Seminyak is one of the island's most exclusive holiday destinations.
It is one of the hippest places in Bali! It is known for its luxury accommodations, high-quality spas and picturesque boutiques. The place is also starting to become more and more of a hotspot for going out in Bali.
Want to know more? Our info on Seminyak
Frank's Bar
#18 Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Sekumpul is Bali's most famous waterfall, but Banyumala Twin Waterfalls is one of Bali's most beautiful waterfalls. Yet it is a lot less crowded here than Bali's most famous sights. This is probably due to its location in the north of Bali. A region that is a little less often on people's itineraries.
You can book a guide in Lovina or Munduk. The walk to the waterfalls through the jungle is beautiful and you can cool off at the waterfall. You can combine it nicely with other places in the north.
Banyumala Twin waterfall
#19 Munduk
We just mentioned it briefly: Munduk. This is home to some of Bali's most beautiful waterfalls and is also next to the spectacular Tamblingan Lake.
Anyone who loves hiking and nature has come to the right place. All over Munduk you will find sprawling agriculture, waterfalls, jungle, rice paddies and local markets. There are only a few guesthouses where you can sleep, but it's worth it!
The rice fields of Munduk in Bali
#20 Amed Beach
Bali has a number of beautiful beaches. Most of those beaches are in the south. If you want to visit a less crowded beach, Amed is a good option. It is one of the best places to dive in Bali.
Don't expect a snow-white sandy beach here. Amed's beach is dark and littered with rocks and volcanic sand, but its laid-back atmosphere, good diving and snorkelling and views of Mount Agung, make it a beautiful place.
Amed's black beach with Mount Agung in the background
#21 Pura Besakih
Pura Besakih is a temple on the slopes of Gunung Agung, Bali's highest mountain. This temple is considered the most important of the 'kayangan jagat', the nine directional temples built to protect the island from evil.
The temple is named after the dragon god who believers say lives in the mountain. You will find more than 28 buildings built on terraces. You can visit the temple with a guide from Ubud.
Besakih
#22 Candidasa Beach
Candidasa is one of the least visited regions of Bali. It consists of a series of villages along the east coast. It is a lot more convivial than the most famous beaches. The beach is slightly less impressive, but there is a lot to do in the area.
You can visit rice paddies, climb viewpoints, dive, snorkel, visit villages and book fun activities. Hop on the back of a scooter (self-driving is no longer allowed) so you can easily explore Candidasa's surroundings.
The coast of Candidasa
#23 Pura Tirta Empul
In the middle of Bali, you'll find the Tirta Empul. It is one of Bali's most famous spots. Photos of the temple can be found in many Bali travel guides. The temple is centuries old and is still an important place for believers in Bali today.
This is because the temple's water is considered sacred. You will also find many purification baths where locals wash themselves.
Locals like to wash im the holy water
#24 Gunung Kawi
Speaking of temples, don't miss Gunung Kawi during your Bali trip. This temple complex from the 11th century attracts many visitors every year. Gunung Kawi is located in the east of the Indonesian island of Bali. The complex is bisected by the Pakrisan River and is set in beautiful green surroundings.
This temple consists of ten altars carved into a massive rock face. The notches in which the altars stand are as high as 7 metres. For a long time they were thought to be funerary monuments but in recent years it has become clear that it was built in honour of the royal family, who ruled Bali at the time.
Want to know more? Our info on Gunung Kawi
It's a beautiful temple
#25 Tabanan
Tabanan is one of Bali's lesser-known sights. It is a region in the west of the island. If you are looking for an authentic piece of Bali, this is a great place. Located in the middle of Bali, it offers green rice paddies, dense jungle, temples, hot-springs and even beaches.
It is a perfect region to explore.
