Dream Beach

Tips and tours for explorers and travellers

Bali City Guide

Ciceru's Bali route climbs to Uluwatu's clifftop temple above the Bukit Peninsula surf breaks, crosses Ubud's rice terrace paths past the Sacred Monkey Forest, and follows Canggu's black sand coast between its surf breaks and rice field lanes.

Country
Indonesia
Language
Indonesian
Currency
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Plug
type C/F
Time zone
Asia/Makassar
Emergency
112, 110, 118, and 113
Tap water
Bottled recommended
Dialling code
+62

The stops

Things to do in Bali

Our Bali routes concentrate on two areas: Ubud's rice terraces, temples and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and the Bukit Peninsula's clifftop temple at Uluwatu above the surf beaches at Padang Padang and Uluwatu itself.

Mushroom Bay Beach

<p>Welcome to Mushroom Bay Beach in Nusa Lembongan, a paradise corner that offers an unforgettable experience to all its visitors. This place is not only one of the two main ports of the island, along with Jungut Batu Port, but also a departure point for local ferries to Nusa Penida. However, most tourists choose to take a boat from the yellow bridge to travel to Nusa Penida. At Mushroom Bay Beach there is no entrance fee, allowing you to explore the entire beach without worrying about paying.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/LsHMvODZ-DSC03671-Editar.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>Mushroom Bay Beach is the ideal place to relax by the ocean. Its calm waters are perfect for swimming, offering a peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle. Snorkeling here is a wonderful experience, thanks to the attractive reef and abundant marine life. Although the waves are usually calm, it is important to be careful with the movement of boats, as their wake can affect the current.</p> <p>For diving enthusiasts, although you can not dive directly on the beach, there are numerous diving schools around where you can get certified PADI or SSI. Certified divers can also book in these schools a tour of the waters of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, discovering the secrets that the sea has in store.</p> <p>Sun and sand are also protagonists at Mushroom Bay Beach, the perfect place to sunbathe and relax, but don't forget to apply sunscreen to avoid sunburns under the intense Balinese sun.</p> <p>In addition, the gastronomic offer in Mushroom Bay Beach is excellent. There are several beachfront restaurants where you can enjoy delicious food, highlighting the Hai Ri Zen for its culinary quality. There are also other restaurants and cafes in the area, such as the Mushroom Espresso, a charming cafe with a small recreational area for children, ideal for adults to relax while the little ones have fun.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/PZW9BGMt-DSC03669-Editar.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p></p>

Devil's Tears

<p>Welcome to Devil's Tears on Nusa Lembongan, a natural wonder that captivates all its visitors with its spectacular display of the force of nature. Entrance costs Rp25,000, and if you keep your ticket, you can re-enter as many times as you wish during your stay on Nusa Lembongan. Be sure to bring cash, preferably in small bills, to pay the entrance fee. The site is open 24 hours a day, although it is advisable to visit during daylight hours, from dawn to dusk, to fully enjoy its breathtaking views.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/Rl4e0g3K-DSC03535.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p><br>Devil's Tears is a collection of holes in the cliffs of Nusa Lembongan that shoot water into the air, creating an impressive mist and roar. This phenomenon is especially noticeable during high tide, when the waves reach their maximum force and give life to the Devil's Tears. The reflections in the pools under the holes and the rainbows that form with the mist are considered one of the most impressive spectacles of Bali. It is a fantastic place for photography.</p> <p>However, patience is essential, as the waves vary greatly and the best shows usually appear after a bit of a wait. The location is also one of the best spots on Nusa Lembongan to watch the sunset, offering unforgettable views that you'll want to capture.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/oyhM4mjb-DSC03530.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>There is a path that surrounds all the holes, allowing you to enjoy a nice walk while watching the force of the water. In addition, in Devil's Tears, you can find surprisingly quiet and serene corners where you can have a picnic by the sea, enjoying the scenery and the calm.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/bOKGy0Pt-DSC03517.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p>

Dream Beach

<p>Dream Beach on Nusa Lembongan, a hidden gem that offers a serene and relaxing experience for all its visitors. Unlike many other beaches, there is no entrance fee here, allowing you to enjoy the carefree surroundings. Although this beach is very popular, interestingly, the crowds tend to stay on the cliff top to take pictures, leaving the relatively quiet sands for those looking for a place to relax.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/WZzB0Xvs-DSC03473.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p>Dream Beach is one of the best places to enjoy this island, surrounded by facilities such as cafes and bars, it offers all the necessary amenities for your visit.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/PqYTnj9p-DSC03498.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>The sand is white and soft, and the water is clear and turquoise, making it a very attractive beach. However, although Dream Beach is an excellent place to sunbathe, the waves are often too big for a leisurely swim. If you want a safer swim, you can opt for one of the swimming pools at nearby restaurants. These establishments offer an excellent alternative to cool off while enjoying the breathtaking ocean views.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/kUF8lHC1-DSC03490.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>The best activities at Dream Beach are eating, drinking and sunbathing. Although you can snorkel, the waves here are not very safe and even the most experienced swimmers could get into trouble. <br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/QOHYUPlB-DSC03508-Editar.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p>

Seaweed farm

<p>The seaweed farms on Nusa Lembongan is a fascinating enclave of marine agriculture that combines tradition in a breathtaking setting. These farms are not only a source of livelihood for locals, but also a tourist attraction that offers a unique window into Bali's past and present. Entrance to the seaweed farms is free, and visitors are welcome to explore these seascapes at any time of day, although it is recommended to do so during daylight for a more enriching and safer experience.</p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/HR5IpDvr-DSC03324.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>The perfect time to visit these farms is during low tide, when the farmers harvest the seaweed and you can walk down to the fields to see the seaweed up close. However, during high tide, the fields are covered by water and only the grids of cultivated plots can be identified.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/UDHXrBqa-DSC03328.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>Seaweed farms on Nusa Lembongan have a rich history that began in 1984, when an entrepreneur from Surabaya introduced the practice to the island. This new farming industry was quickly adopted by local residents, who found seaweed farming to be a new source of income. Seaweed, specifically Eucheuma cottonii, is highly valued for its carrageenan, a compound used in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.</p> <p>Despite challenges such as adverse weather conditions and competition with tourism, seaweed farms have persisted and have become an integral part of Nusa Lembongan's economy and culture. During the pandemic, when tourism stopped, many locals returned to seaweed farming, demonstrating the resilience and importance of this activity. Today, these farms not only provide livelihoods for local families, but also attract curious tourists who want to learn about this unique aspect of Balinese life.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/PXoWy6Gn-DSC03361.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>The process of seaweed cultivation is fascinating and laborious. Farmers begin by planting seaweed seeds, which are not indigenous to Nusa Lembongan, in designated plots in shallow water. These seeds, purchased from other regions, are planted in plots that each family owns and meticulously cares for. Over a period of 30 to 45 days, the seaweed grows and is constantly monitored to ensure its health and prevent damage from marine pests. Once mature, the seaweed is harvested and dried before being sold to harvesters who distribute it to various industries.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/0mGoyqkw-DSC03335.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>In addition to being a vital agricultural activity, the seaweed farms on Nusa Lembongan are a visual spectacle.The vast patches of seaweed, with their vibrant shades of green and brown, create a natural mosaic in the sea that is perfect for photography.Tourists can watch the farmers in their small boats, going about their daily tasks, from planting and harvesting to drying the seaweed on the beach.These activities offer an authentic insight into daily life on Nusa Lembongan and an opportunity to appreciate the dedication and hard work of the local farmers.<br></p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/0YegkCwq-DSC03346-Editar.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p><br></p>

Yellow Bridgge

<p>The Yellow Bridge, or the Yellow Bridge, is an iconic structure that connects the beautiful islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.Built by the Klungkung district, this bridge is a testament to engineering and the need to connect communities.It can only be crossed by motorcycle or walking due to its narrowness, with a width of approximately 1.5 meters.This yellow bridge has become a very famous tourist destination for those visiting Nusa Lembongan, offering not only functionality but also stunning beauty that makes it highly instagrammable.You cannot miss this place, as it will allow you to enjoy spectacular views.<br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/TAMj5hob-DSC03380.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p><br><br>The Yellow Bridge not only serves as a crucial link between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, but is also a tourist attraction in itself. This bridge was originally built in 2016 with wooden materials, but after a tragic collapse that resulted in the loss of many lives, it was rebuilt in 2017 using iron, which ensures its durability. With a length of 138 meters and a width of 1.8 meters, the bridge has been strengthened and painted in a vibrant yellow color, making it stand out and attract visitors from all over the world.</p> <p>The history of the Yellow Bridge is as fascinating as its appearance. Originally built to facilitate access between the islands, its collapse and subsequent reconstruction show the resilience and determination of the local community. Today, the bridge is not only essential infrastructure, but also a symbol of unity and progress. The view from the bridge is breathtaking, with the bright blue sea and the daily activities of locals and tourists creating a lively and colorful atmosphere.<br><br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/FgqTf0jm-DSC03394.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>In addition to its functionality, the Yellow Bridge is an ideal place for photography. Its unique structure and the contrast of the yellow bridge against the blue sky and sea make it perfect for capturing unforgettable images. Many visitors enjoy walking across the bridge, watching the boats passing underneath and enjoying the sea breeze. It is also known as the "Bridge of Love" because many couples choose it as a backdrop for their photos, adding a romantic touch to their visit.<br><br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/m4FjELH3-DSC03389.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p>

Panorama Point

<p>Welcome to Panorama Point on Nusa Lembongan, an outstanding destination offering spectacular panoramic views and a relaxing experience. This observation point is ideal for those looking to explore nature and capture breathtaking photographs midway between mushroom bay beach and Jungutbatu Beach.<br><br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/k95tPJhv-DJI_20240706024111_0223_D.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p>Panorama Point is famous for its views of the blue sea and passing boats, making it perfect for photography. It is also a quiet place to relax and enjoy the cool breeze while unwinding at one of the restaurants with a view in the area. Our personal recommendation is the Karana Lembongan. Located on a hill, it offers a unique perspective of the rural villages and the Jungut Batu Pier.</p>

Jungutbatu Beach

<p>Jungut Batu Beach in Nusa Lembongan, is a charming destination known for its natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. This beach, located near the famous Jungut Batu Harbour, is ideal for those looking to enjoy water sports, photography and spectacular views.<br><br>Jungut Batu Beach is famous for its crystal clear sea and calm waves, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. In addition, the beach offers picturesque scenery with traditional boats, making it an ideal place to capture stunning photographs. The presence of locals and tourists creates a welcoming and lively atmosphere.<br><br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/JpwbdUiY-IMG_4046%202.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>The beach is perfect for a swim, especially during high tide when the water is usually very calm. However, it is important to be careful of the dead coral that the water washes ashore, as it can cause cuts if you enter the water with bare feet.</p> <p>Jungut Batu Beach is also full of dive centers where you can sign up for PADI or SSI courses. Our personal recommendation is Dive Concepts Lembongan, a large center with a lot of experience, good equipment and amazing instructors.</p> <p>For surfing enthusiasts, Jungut Batu Beach offers several schools that provide private lessons and shuttle boats. Since the waves are located before the barrier reef, it is necessary to go far from the coast. Surf schools provide boats that take you to the wave zone without having to spend all your strength paddling.</p> <p>If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy a good meal in front of the sea, The Beach Shak and Ohana restaurants are perfect, offering loungers for sunbathing and an excellent variety of dishes to satisfy all tastes.<br><br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/QnNdUlTV-IMG_4049-FULL%20SIZE-2.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>Another recommendation in this beach is 3 Monkeys, a bar with billiards where both tourists and locals meet at sunset to enjoy a Bintang or Singaraja beer, two of the most popular beers in Bali, while having fun with the music.</p> <p>In addition, Jungut Batu Beach is located in the busiest area of the island. Moving away from the beach and towards the main street, you will find a wide variety of stores and restaurants to suit all tastes, making this area an ideal place to explore and enjoy the local cuisine and culture.<br></p>

Mahagiri Beach

<p>Mahagiri Beach on Nusa Lembongan, also known as Pantai Pasir Putih, is famous for its fine white sands, offering a perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.</p> <p>Mahagiri Beach is ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Although located near the Mahagiri Resort, the beach retains its serenity due to its more remote location, making it less crowded. Palm trees and an iconic swing are highlights for photography.<br><br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/XRzfvxmA-DSC03615-Editar.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>During low tide, seaweed farms are visible, so swimming is not recommended at those times. However, during high tide, calm waters invite cautious swimming close to the shore to avoid seaweed nets. When the skies are clear, it is possible to enjoy views of Bali from the beach.<br><br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/uJyjRLqb-DSC03576.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>The fine white sand of Mahagiri Beach is perfect for lounging and sunbathing. Nearby restaurants offer drinks and food, along with loungers for relaxing in the sun.<br><br>This beach is also a great place to watch the sunset, as its location is perfectly oriented towards the horizon where the sun sets.<br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/CAJK893G-DSC03649.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p><br></p>

Mangrove Point

<p>Mangrove Point is a mangrove forest on Nusa Lembongan, a fascinating ecosystem that not only offers a breathtaking view of nature, but also an educational and relaxing experience.<br><br>The Nusa Lembongan Mangrove Forest is renowned for its variety of mangroves and their crucial importance as a habitat for numerous marine species, including fish, shrimp and crabs. These mangroves not only serve as a natural refuge, but also as a protective barrier against coastal erosion, providing a vital balance in the local marine ecosystem.</p> <p></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/PQjfiAdl-IMG_4077.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p> <p>This place is not only a haven for wildlife, but also for ecotourism lovers. Visitors can explore the mangroves aboard traditional boats, enjoying a leisurely ride while observing up close the natural beauty offered by this unique environment. The cool sea breeze and serene surroundings make it a rejuvenating experience for those seeking to connect with nature.</p> <p>In addition to its ecological value, the Mangrove Forest is an ideal destination for activities such as kayaking. Visitors can rent kayaks and explore the meandering channels between the mangroves, enjoying the peace and tranquility that this natural environment offers. Finding a kayak for rent is very easy, as there are several companies in the area that offer this service and it is possible to negotiate prices.<br><br></p> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/ciceru-assets-stg/f75d87c4-87da-4e80-ba9e-1ce6f64b6395/Zcbre0Ls-IMG_4073.jpg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: 320px"/> <p></p>

Your private guide, in your pocket

Ready to walk these?

  • Self-guided, start now or later
  • Offline audio, 7 languages
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • 500MB global eSIM included

from

€7.00

1 self-guided tour in Bali

See the tours

Plan the days

How many days in Bali? A perfect 1-day itinerary

Day 1

Denpasar, rice terraces and the coast

Use the tour catalogue for a focused Bali day, then build in generous transfer time: traffic between Denpasar, Ubud and the south coast can reshape the plan.

Weather & crowds

Best time to visit

May, June and September give the best trade-off: dry enough for the coast, short of July and August's peak-season crowds and prices. September is the driest shoulder month at 40.7mm. December to March is wettest, over 200mm most months, and March often includes Nyepi, when the whole island and its airport shut for 24 hours.

Recommended

Peak wet season

Dec–Jan

25–31°C/ 77–88°F

Peak seasonMonsoon
  • Christmas and New Year buzz
  • Peak prices and booked-out flights over New Year
  • Quietens fast once January starts

Don't miss

  • Christmas and New Year (Dec-Jan)

Wet season, quiet

Feb–Mar

25–31°C/ 77–88°F

Few visitorsWet
  • Lowest crowds of the year
  • Wettest months of the year, frequent downpours
  • Nyepi shuts the island for a day in March

Don't miss

  • Nyepi, Day of Silence (19 March 2026)

Dry season building

Apr–Jun

25–30°C/ 77–87°F

Getting busierOccasional rain
  • Rain eases every month
  • Weather still unsettled into April

Peak dry season

Jul–Sep

24–29°C/ 75–85°F

Peak seasonDry
  • Driest months, best light
  • August is the most crowded, priciest month

Don't miss

  • Bali Arts Festival (mid-June to mid-July)

Wet season building

Oct–Nov

25–31°C/ 77–88°F

Getting busierOccasional rain
  • Fewer crowds before December
  • Rain returns fast: 149mm by November

Transport

How to get to & around Bali

I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport

How to get to & around Bali
Taxi counter (metered) to Kuta/Legian20-30 min~IDR 600.00
Taxi counter (metered) to Seminyak25-35 min~IDR 750.00
Taxi counter (metered) to Canggu35-55 min~IDR 1,000.00
Taxi counter (metered) to Ubud60-90 min~IDR 1,800.00

Terminal Ubung, Denpasar

How to get to & around Bali
Trans Metro Dewata K2 bus to airport45-60 minIDR 44.00

Metered taxi

Reliable, metered

Blue Bird and other licensed taxis run on the meter, roughly Rp15,000 to start plus about Rp5,000 a kilometre. Ask the driver to switch the meter on. Unmetered touts still work the arrivals kerb.

Ride-hailing app

Cash or e-payment

Grab and Gojek cover cars and motorbike taxis (ojek) across the south. Fares are fixed before booking, usually cheaper than a taxi. Drivers often cannot enter hotel drives, so agree a meeting point.

Motorbike rental

Needs SIM C or IDP

Rp60,000 to Rp150,000 a day. Indonesian law requires an Indonesian licence or International Driving Permit for motorbikes: without one, insurance is void if you crash, and checkpoints fine riders.

Walking

Good in one area

Ubud's centre and Canggu's cafe strip work on foot, but pavements disappear on wider roads and drivers do not expect pedestrians. Fine within one neighbourhood, not for crossing the island.

Trans Metro Dewata bus

Limited routes

Rp4,400 a trip, paid by QRIS. The K2 corridor reaches the airport from Terminal Ubung, but coverage elsewhere is thin and infrequent: not realistic for reaching Ubud, Canggu or Seminyak.

Take a metered taxi or ride-hailing app for most trips, rent a scooter only if you hold an IDP, and do not plan an itinerary around Trans Metro Dewata: it barely reaches beyond the airport corridor.

Budget

How much does it cost to visit Bali?

Bali stays cheap for food and local transport: a warung meal and a day's scooter hire together cost less than one round of cocktails in Seminyak. It gets pricier the moment you want speed or comfort: a taxi from the airport to Ubud runs to Rp180,000, and every foreign visitor pays a one-off Rp150,000 entry levy before leaving the island.

How much does it cost to visit Bali?
Coffee (cafe cappuccino)IDR 350.00–IDR 600.00
Local warung mealIDR 200.00–IDR 600.00
Casual cafe main mealIDR 700.00–IDR 2,000.00
Bintang beer, large bottleIDR 300.00–IDR 500.00
Motorbike rental, per dayIDR 600.00–IDR 1,500.00
Metered taxi across townIDR 400.00–IDR 800.00
Trans Metro Dewata, single tripIDR 44.00
Airport taxi to south Bali~IDR 600.00–~IDR 1,800.00
Tourist levy (PWA), per personIDR 1,500.00

Cash or card?

Cards work in most cafes, shops and hotels across Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu and Ubud, but warungs, market stalls and scooter rental shops are cash-only. ATMs cap withdrawals at roughly Rp2.5 to 3 million per transaction; decline any offer to convert to your home currency at the machine.

Where to stay

Where to stay in Bali

Kuta, Legian and Seminyak

First visit, nightlife

Bali's original beach strip, minutes from the airport. Kuta has the surf schools and budget shops, Legian the bars, Seminyak the quieter boutique end. The coast road jams solid most evenings.

Ubud (Gianyar)

Culture, rice terraces

Bali's arts and temple town, with the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and rice paddy walks. About 60 to 90 minutes from the airport. Central streets clog with day-trippers by late morning.

Canggu

Surfing, cafes, remote work

A surf village 10km north west of Kuta with nine beach breaks and a growing cafe scene. Jalan Raya Canggu, its only through road, is notoriously jammed; the back-road shortcut is narrow too.

Sanur

Families, calm water

Bali's oldest beach resort, 30 minutes from the airport, with a reef-protected shoreline calmer than the south's surf beaches. Popular with older visitors and expats. Nightlife shuts early.

North Bali (Lovina)

Diving, fewer visitors

Black sand beaches and dolphin-watching boats roughly two hours from the airport. Slower pace and lower prices than the south, but the drive is winding and evening options are limited.

The tours

Bali, one story at a time

Scratch to win

Give it a scratch

Something good might be under there. If you win, we'll show you how to use it.

One prize per traveller. Good for 2 years.

Word of mouth

What travellers say

Safety

Is Bali safe?

Violent crime against visitors is rare. The real risks are traffic, counterfeit alcohol and opportunistic scams rather than street crime. UK and Australian government advice both single out methanol poisoning from bootleg arak and the rise in motorbike accidents as the dangers that actually kill visitors, more than theft does.

Traffic and motorbikes

Traffic discipline is poor and moped accidents in Bali have risen sharply, some fatal. Wear a helmet in good condition, avoid riding after dark or drinking, and check your licence or IDP covers motorbikes before renting one.

Counterfeit alcohol

Deaths and serious illness from methanol in bootleg arak keep happening, including in licensed bars and hotels. As little as one shot can be fatal and it cannot be tasted or smelled. Drink only sealed, branded bottles.

Scams and drink spiking

Australian authorities report card-game gambling scams and robberies after tourists bring new acquaintances back to their room, plus drink spiking linked to sexual assault. Watch your drink being poured; do not accept one from a stranger.

Reporting a theft

Insurance claims need a police report. Go to the nearest Polsek (police station) the same day to file a laporan kehilangan; a claim without one is routinely rejected.

Medical help

Call 112 or 110 for police and 118 for an ambulance. Local medical care can be basic and some tests are unreliable; serious problems usually mean transfer to a hospital in Denpasar or evacuation. Good travel insurance matters here.

Good to know

Good to know

Nyepi shuts the island

On Nyepi, 19 March 2026, the whole of Bali including the airport closes for 24 hours from 6am. Streets and beaches are empty, lights must stay low, and visitors must stay inside their hotel grounds. Breaking the rules can mean deportation.

ATM withdrawal caps

Most ATMs cap a single withdrawal at Rp2.5 to 3 million, so budget several transactions for larger sums. Use machines at bank branches where possible and always decline the machine's own currency-conversion offer.

Temple ceremonies can close roads

Village temple anniversaries (odalan) and processions can close a street with no warning, sometimes for an hour or more. If your driver stops and waits, that is normal practice, not overcharging.

Temple dress and etiquette

Sarongs are compulsory at temples and usually provided at the gate. Do not step on the small canang sari offerings left on pavements; they are placed fresh each morning and stepping on one is considered disrespectful.

Questions

Bali FAQ

Most nationalities get a Visa on Arrival for Rp500,000, valid 30 days and extendable once inside Indonesia for another 30 days for a further Rp500,000. Your passport needs six months' validity from your entry date. You can also apply for an e-VOA in advance through Indonesia's immigration portal to skip the arrival queue.

Ready to go?

Self-guided audio tours across Bali.

See the tours in Bali