10 Best Things to Do and Top Attractions in Bali
Bali is a stunning destination that blends deep cultural traditions with incredible natural landscapes. Exploring the island offers endless opportunities, from ancient temples perched on coastal cliffs to lush rice terraces and world-class diving sites. Finding the ultimate things to do in Bali makes planning your getaway effortless, whether you want a peaceful retreat or an active adventure.
Sep 22, 20267 min read
What Are the Absolute Must-See Landmarks in Bali?
Bali features iconic spiritual sites, historic sanctuaries, and dramatic natural scenery. You will experience the very best of the island's unique heritage and geography by visiting these places.
1. Marvel at the Iconic Cliffside Uluwatu Temple
Perched on a sheer cliff high above the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple is one of the most striking spiritual sights on the island. Visiting this location at sunset provides unforgettable ocean views alongside traditional cultural performances. Adding this coastal sanctuary to your itinerary is one of the top things to do in Bali for first-time visitors.
2. Explore the Ancient Sacred Cave at Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is a historic sanctuary dating back to the 9th century. The site features a cave entrance carved with intimidating stone faces, surrounded by peaceful bathing pools and lush jungle paths. Touring these ancient grounds stands out as one of the best things to do in Bali for history lovers.
3. Take in the Picturesque Views at Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
Located on the shore of Lake Beratan in the cool highlands of Bedugul, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan appears to float gently on the water's surface. Surrounded by misty mountains, this water temple dedicated to the lake goddess offers stunning photo opportunities. Stopping here remains one of the most classic things to do in Bali.
4. Experience a Purification Ritual at Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul is famous for its holy spring water, where local worshippers and international visitors participate in traditional cleansing rituals. The stone pools and carved spouts create a deeply spiritual atmosphere in the heart of the island. Participating in this sacred ritual ranks among the most memorable cultural things to do in Bali.
5. Stroll Through the Scenic Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The sweeping green valleys of Tegalalang display traditional Balinese cooperative irrigation systems known as subak. Visitors can walk along narrow paths carved into the hillside and enjoy views of lush palm trees. Exploring these manicured fields is one of the most popular outdoorsy things to do in Bali.
6. Watch a Traditional Legong Dance Performance in Ubud
Ubud is widely recognized as the cultural heart of the island, making it the perfect venue to catch a classical dance show. Legong features intricate hand movements, vibrant costumes, and dynamic gamelan music, often hosted inside historic palaces. Experiencing a live show is one of the most rewarding evening things to do in Bali.
7. Walk Among Macaques in the Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest
The Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest is a natural sanctuary home to hundreds of playful grey long-tailed macaques. Shadowed by ancient banyan trees and moss-covered stone statues, the forest paths feel like a hidden jungle world. Taking a stroll through this sanctuary remains one of the top nature-focused things to do in Bali.
8. Swim Under the Breathtaking Sekumpul Waterfalls
Hidden in the northern jungle canyon near Singaraja, Sekumpul is often considered the most spectacular waterfall complex on the island. A trek down through dense foliage rewards travelers with towering cascades spilling down sheer green cliffs. Swimming in these refreshing mountain waters is one of the most thrilling adventure things to do in Bali.
9. Dive the Historic USAT Liberty Wreck in Tulamben
Just off the pebbled beach of Tulamben rests the USAT Liberty, an American cargo ship torpedoed during World War II. Resting close to shore in clear waters, the marine-covered wreck is easily accessible to both beginner and advanced scuba divers. Underwater exploration here ranks as one of the premier aquatic things to do in Bali.
10. Swim with Manta Rays at Nusa Penida
A short boat ride off the main coast leads to Nusa Penida, famous for the Manta Point dive site. Divers and ocean lovers can float alongside giant resident manta rays gliding gracefully through shallow coastal waters. Experiencing these majestic marine creatures is among the absolute bucket-list things to do in Bali.
How Can WonderConnect Keep You Online While Exploring Bali?
Navigating island roads, booking local drivers, checking restaurant reviews, or managing digital travel passes requires a stable mobile connection. WonderConnect provides digital travel tools to help you stay connected across Indonesia without expensive fees. Instead of searching for local physical SIM cards at busy airports, you can easily buy eSIM online before setting off. Securing a dedicated eSIM Bali plan delivers reliable mobile data throughout your vacation. WonderConnect offers a data-only eSIM that installs quickly on any compatible device that is carrier-unlocked.
You can prepare your plan before departing via QR code, making eSIM installation completely smooth. Once you land, eSIM activation connects your device directly to an active local network carrier so you can avoid high data roaming charges. If you spend long days exploring remote waterfalls or beaches, you can quickly learn how to check data usage on an iPhone inside your settings or discover how to check eSIM data balance right within the WonderConnect app. If your data runs low during a long day trip, purchasing a plan top-up takes only a minute. Using a Dual SIM setup allows you to keep your primary physical SIM active for security text messages while running mobile data on your prepaid data plan.
Conclusion
Bali provides an extraordinary blend of ancient temples, lush landscapes, vibrant cultural traditions, and unforgettable underwater adventures. By choosing your favorite regional attractions, respecting local customs, and organizing your mobile connectivity ahead of time, your getaway to this famous tropical island will be smooth and unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a visa to enter Bali?Most international travelers require a Visa on Arrival (VoA) to enter Indonesia for tourism purposes, which can be purchased online before your trip or at the airport upon landing.
2. What is the best way to get around Bali?Hiring a private driver for full-day excursions is the most comfortable option, while using ride-hailing apps or renting a scooter works well for short trips in urban areas like Ubud or Seminyak.
3. Is it safe to drink tap water in Bali?No, tap water in Bali is not safe for drinking; travelers should always consume filtered or bottled water and use bottled water when brushing their teeth.
Written byWonderConnect co-founder and product designer creating travel solutions inspired by years of remote work around the world.
