22 Best Things to Do in Bali: Volcano Adventures & Spa Relaxation

Inspiration for Your Next Escape in Indonesia

1. Cooking Classes and Local Cuisine

2. Temples and Cultural Experiences

3. Nature Activities and Spa Treatments

4. Unique Dining and Culinary Delights

5. Arts, Crafts, and Sustainable Living

Bali, the Indonesian island paradise, continues to draw travelers with its sun-soaked beaches and vibrant culture. With a climate that can be described as year-round summer, Bali offers a host of activities that showcase its stunning landscapes and rich traditions. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, the diverse experiences available in Bali promise unforgettable memories.

Take a Cooking Class at Bali Asli

The pristine foothills of Mount Agung house Bali Asli, a renowned restaurant and cooking school. These immersive classes teach not only how to prepare local dishes but also provide excursions to local markets and villages, enabling participants to fully experience Balinese culture.

Visit a Water Temple

Tirta Empul Temple
Balíz Námeth/Getty Images

No trip to Bali is complete without a visit to a water temple. Pura Tirta Empul is a sacred site where visitors can participate in a purification ritual in the crystal-clear water, which is a significant practice for many Balinese.

Chase Waterfalls

Tibumana Waterfall near Ubud in Bali
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With numerous picturesque waterfalls, Bali is perfect for chasing waterfalls. Visit the powerful Tibumana Waterfall, Kanto Lampo for its broad beauty, or Tukad Cepung, which is hidden in a cave for a magical experience.

Visit Balinese Jeweler John Hardy

Person working in John Hardy workshop
Courtesy of John Hardy

The acclaimed jewelry brand John Hardy offers guided tours of its workshop in Ubud. Visitors can witness the intricate craftsmanship of more than 600 artisans and participate in exclusive jewelry master classes.

Experience Sunrise Yoga at Uluwatu

Start your day with refreshing yoga sessions at The Yoga Barn or the open-air Morning Light Yoga at Uluwatu Surf Villas, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Bali’s iconic surf break.

Go Horseback Riding on the Beach

Two people riding horses on the beach
Courtesy of Salty Cowboy

Hop on rescued horses with Salty Cowboy for unforgettable beach rides in Kedungu and scenic rides through verdant rice paddies.

Have a Plant-Based Meal at Tanaman

Several dishes from Tanaman
Courtesy of Potato Head

Plant-based dining at Tanaman showcases sustainable culinary practices and imaginative dishes prepared from local produce, making it a top choice for health-conscious visitors.

Take a Batik-Dyeing Workshop

Women in a Batik class at Threads of Life
Courtesy of Threads of Life

Experience Bali’s textile heritage at Threads of Life and join a batik workshop, immersing in the traditional techniques of this beautiful craft.

Enjoy a Balinese Massage

A visit to Bali is incomplete without indulging in a revitalizing Balinese massage. Spa on the Rocks at AYANA Resort Bali offers an extraordinary massage experience with breathtaking ocean views.

Climb a Volcano at Sunrise

View of Mt Batur at sunrise
John Crux Photography/Getty Images

Experience the natural beauty of Bali by climbing either friendly Mount Batur or the challenging Mount Agung. An early morning hike offers stunning sunrise views that you won’t want to miss.

Learn to Surf

With its renowned surf spots, Bali is a must-visit for surfing enthusiasts. Beginners can take lessons at Batu Bolong in Canggu or Padang Padang near Uluwatu, where surf schools offer comprehensive guidance.

Reset at Raffles Bali

Aerial view of villa at Raffles Bali
Courtesy of Raffles Bali

For a wellness retreat, Raffles Bali offers tailored programs to rejuvenate the body and mind through holistic experiences and relaxation techniques.

Visit Uluwatu Temple

Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple
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Pura Luhur Uluwatu, built on limestone cliffs, offers breathtaking ocean views and an incredible cultural experience with its stunning kecak dance performances at sunset.

Plan a Beach Day

With numerous pristine beaches, Bali is the perfect place to unwind. Melasti Beach and Virgin Beach each offer unique charm, providing ample opportunity for relaxation and sunbathing.

Have Brunch at Mandapa

Brunching at Mandapa indulges your taste buds with an unlimited buffet featuring local specialties like babi guling and bebek betutu—a culinary must-try while in Bali.

Swim in Bambu Indah’s Riverside Pools

The serene riverside pools at Bambu Indah are perfect for relaxation, surrounded by lush landscapes and antique Javanese houses.

Visit Pura Lempuyang Luhur

Lempuyang Luhur temple
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Pura Lempuyang Luhur is one of Bali’s oldest temples, offering stunning views and a spiritual experience as visitors navigate the scenic grounds and stairways.

Shop for Arts and Crafts

For those interested in local art, Sukawati Art Market is a vibrant place to find textiles, wood carvings, and other unique craftsmanship by local artisans.

Cycle Through Rice Terraces

Woman walking through Bali's rice fields
Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

A cycling exploration through the rice terraces of Tegalalang allows visitors to enjoy the lush landscapes away from the crowds while learning about Balinese agriculture.

Experience a Melukat Ceremony

Balinese Hindu devotees perform the Melukat ritual at Tirta Empul Temple
Paul Biris/Getty Images

Engage in the spiritual practices of Bali with a melukat ceremony, an authentic experience offered by select hotels, providing a connection to the island’s rich traditions.

Go Whitewater Rafting Down the Ayung River

Rafting in the canyon on Balis mountain river Ayung at Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Marina113/Getty Images

The Ayung River provides an exhilarating experience for those seeking adventure. Whitewater rafting during the rainy season allows you to harness the river’s powerful currents.

Soak in Hidden Hot Springs

The small Kolo Rongo hot spring surrounded by rice fields
Getty Images

In addition to its beautiful waterfalls, Bali also features several hot springs, offering soothing relaxation in peaceful natural settings after a day of exploration.

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