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Amazing Attractions & Excellent Experiences for Your Next Bali Holiday
- Rachel
- Jul 12
- 8 min read
If you're like us, you might get a bit stir crazy sitting in the busiest tourist area of Bali for your entire trip. While Kuta has plenty of convenient entertainment right on your doorstep, its central location also makes it the perfect base for exploring some of the island’s most captivating attractions—all within a very manageable two-hour drive. From sacred temples perched on cliffs to scenic rice terraces, waterfalls, wildlife parks, and hands-on cultural experiences, this island has something for everyone. Whether you're searching for adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with Balinese culture, here are some very worthy destinations to add to your itinerary—all close enough for a hassle-free, one day escape from the busy streets of Kuta. They're great locations on their own, but why not string a few together into a full day tour for an experience you'll never forget!
Cultural & Spiritual Highlights
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Kecak dance at 6:00 PM (gates open at 4pm)
Ticket Price:
Temple Entry
International visitors - Adult IDR 50,000 Child IDR 30,000 for temple entry; Domestic Visitors Adult IDR 30,000, Child IDR 20,000
Kecak dance tickets
Adult IDR 150,000
Child IDR 75,000
Prefer someone else to do all the driving and organising? Check out a guided tour here:
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Arrive by 5:00 PM to secure a good spot for the Kecak dance.
What to Bring: A sarong and sash are required; these can be rented at the entrance. Modest dress is required, with shoulders and knees covered.
Footwear: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as the temple grounds involve some walking.
Safety: Be cautious with personal items; monkeys are known to snatch belongings. They are also sacred and protected here - DO NOT FEED THEM!
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Ticket Price: Entry fee typically between IDR 10,000 to IDR 20,000 paid as a donation to local farmers to walk in their fields. For the swing, expect between IDR 50,000 and IDR 200,000 depending on your bartering ability.
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and capture the terraces in soft light.
What to Bring: A towel and swimwear if you plan to dip in nearby pools.
Footwear: Good, enclosed walking shoes are recommended for walking on uneven paths.
Opening Hours:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry 5:00pm)
Ticket Price:
Weekdays - Adult IDR. 100,000 Child IDR. 80,000
Weekends - Adult IDR. 120,000 Child IDR. 100,000
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Early morning when the monkeys are most active.
What to Bring: Avoid carrying food or shiny objects to deter monkey attention.
Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are advisable for walking on uneven terrain.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Ticket Price:
Adults - IDR 75,000
Children 5 to 12 - IDR 50,000
Under 5 - FREE
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal for participating in the purification ritual (melukat).
What to Bring: A change of clothes and a towel if you plan to enter the holy spring pools.
Dress Code: Wear a sarong and sash; these are available for rent at the entrance.
Footwear: Waterproof sandals or flip-flops are recommended for walking around the temple grounds.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Ticket Price:
Adults - IDR 75,000
Child - IDR 40,000
Parking:
Motorbike - IDR 3000
Car - IDR 5000
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Arrive by 5:00 PM to witness the stunning sunset views.
What to Bring: A camera to capture the temple against the backdrop of the setting sun.
Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are advisable for walking on uneven paths.
Safety: Be cautious near the water; the waves can be unpredictable.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Ticket Price:
International visitors
Adult - IDR 75,000
Child - IDR 50,000
Domestic visitors
Adult - IDR 25,000
Child - IDR 15,000
Note - if you wish to use a drone to capture the beauty of these terraces, you must get prior approval and pay an additional fee of IDR 300,000.
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during the dry season (May to October) for fewer crowds and golden-hued fields.
What to Bring: A hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the expansive terraces.
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM.
Ticket Price: Approximately IDR 20,000.
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Early morning before 7:30 AM or late afternoon around 5:00 PM to avoid crowds.
What to Bring: A towel and swimwear if you plan to take a dip in the waterfall pool.
Footwear: Waterproof sandals or flip-flops are recommended for navigating the slippery paths.
Safety: Be cautious near the water's edge; the current can be strong.
Cultural Parks & Wildlife
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
Ticket Price:
General Entry - IDR 150,000
Entry plus Statue Tour - IDR 400,000
Entry plus Baraong Performance (6:00pm) - IDR 200,000
Baraong Performance (6:00pm)- IDR 100,000
(Children under 100cm height are free)
One way shuttle - IDR 40,000
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Late morning to early afternoon to catch cultural performances and explore the park.
What to Bring: A camera to capture the impressive Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the expansive park.
Facilities: The park offers various
dining options; consider trying local Balinese cuisine.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Ticket Prices:
General Admission:
Adults - IDR 65,000
Child 3 - 12 - IDR 520,000
Various packages available including Safari & Marine Park Ticket bundle, General Admission plus show, Night Safari General Admission, Night Safari Premium, Varuna Premium, Deluxe or Regular Package, Breakfast with Lions, Safari Lion Package, VIP Rhino Experience. See website for detailed pricing HERE
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Arrive early to enjoy cooler temperatures and witness animals during their most active times.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat.
Facilities: The park offers various dining options; consider trying local Balinese cuisine.
Activities: Don't miss the animal shows and the waterpark for a fun-filled day.
Accommodation: Mara River Safari Lodge is located on site and gives guests the opportunity to observe the animals from their own open air terraces. Prices start from IDR 3,800,000 for 2, with breakfast included. You can book a room direct, or through Expedia here.
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Ticket Prices: IDR 75,000 includes food for the monkeys and a bottle of water
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal when the monkeys are most active.
What to Bring: Bravery - these monkeys are friendlier than those at other monkey forests in Bali and guides will encourage them to sit on you for a photo.
Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are advisable for walking on uneven terrain.
Safety: Be cautious with personal belongings; monkeys are known to snatch items. Avoid eye contact with the monkeys.
11. Bali Zoo
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Ticket Prices:
Adults - IDR 355,500
Child - IDR 252,000
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Arrive early to see the animals during their most active periods.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat for sun protection. Swimmers and towel if using the waterpark.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the zoo.
Activities: Participate in interactive animal encounters and enjoy the Jungle Splash Waterplay area.
Additional activities: Breakfast with Orangutans, Elephant Mud Bath, Behind Closed Doors.
12. Bali Bird Park
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily (last ticket exchange at 5:00 PM)
Ticket Prices:
Adult - IDR 385,000
Child - IDR 265,000
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal for birdwatching and attending feeding sessions.
What to Bring: A camera to capture the vibrant birdlife and a hat for sun protection.
Facilities: The park offers dining options; consider trying the Bali Starling restaurant for a unique experience.
Activities: Don't miss the Komodo dragon show and the 4D theater for an immersive experience.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Ticket Prices:
Free entry to the palace grounds; dance performances at 7:30 PM require a ticket for IDR 100,000.
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Evening hours are ideal to witness traditional Balinese dance performances.
What to Bring: While there is no enforced dress code for the Palace, it is recommended to show respect by dressing modestly (knees and shoulders covered). Sarongs are readily available in nearby market stalls if needed.
Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are advisable for walking on uneven paths.
Cultural Etiquette: Maintain a respectful demeanor; the palace is a place of cultural significance.
14. Snorkelling at Blue Lagoon Beach, Padang Bai
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ticket Prices: Vary depending on tour provider and package.
Unique Features:
Located in East Bali, near Padang Bai, Blue Lagoon Beach is renowned for its calm, clear waters—ideal for both beginner and experienced snorkelers.
The site boasts vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life, including angelfish, clownfish, and, occasionally, sea turtles.
Snorkelers can explore the underwater world from the shore or opt for a traditional jukung (Balinese boat) ride to nearby spots like Tanjung Jepun for a more extensive experience.
Tips for Visiting:
Best Time to Visit: Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the calmest waters and avoid midday crowds.
What to Bring: While equipment is often provided, consider bringing your own snorkel mask for comfort.
Footwear: Water shoes or flip-flops are recommended for walking on the rocky beach.
Safety: Always snorkel with a buddy and be aware of the local marine life.
Facilities: Basic amenities are available, including warungs (small local eateries) offering refreshments and snacks.
Blue Lagoon Beach offers a tranquil and picturesque escape into Bali’s natural beauty, with its calm waters, vibrant coral reefs, and secluded feel. Whether you’re snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the soft white sand, Blue Lagoon Beach provides the perfect setting for a peaceful day by the sea.
Location: Batubulan, Sukawati, Gianyar, Bali (adjacent to Bali Bird Park)
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; last entry at 4:00 PM
Ticket Prices:
International visitors:
Adults - IDR 250,000
Child - IDR 125,000
Home to over 100 reptile species, including Komodo dragons, reticulated pythons,
crocodiles, iguanas, and various venomous snakes
Designed with ancient-themed exhibits set within a lush tropical garden, offering an immersive experience
Engaging reptile shows and interactive sessions led by knowledgeable guides
Facilities include a café, gift shop, free Wi-Fi, and clean restrooms
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Arrive early to enjoy cooler temperatures and witness animals during their most active times
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat
Footwear: Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort
Facilities: The park offers various dining options; consider trying local Balinese cuisine
Activities: Don't miss the reptile shows and interactive sessions for a fun-filled day
Opening Hours: Classes daily from ~7:30 AM to ~1:15 PM (morning), ~12:30 PM to ~5:30 PM (afternoon), and ~4:00 PM to ~9:00 PM (evening)
Ticket Prices:
Morning market + cooking: IDR 480,000
Afternoon: IDR 450,000
Evening: IDR 750,000
Advanced/private packages: IDR 830,000–850,000
Unique Features:
Includes a guided market tour, organic-farm harvest, and hands-on cooking class preparing 6 dishes (appetizers, mains, dessert)
Free shuttle from Ubud meeting point (Pura Dalem Puri)
Ideal for all diets: vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, meat-lovers. Includes recipe book.
Operated by a local villagers’ cooperative—sustainable, eco-conscious rural experience.
Fun, knowledgeable instructors and farm-to-table authenticity
Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Morning sessions are cooler and include market visits—great for photographing vibrant stalls.
What to Bring: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes; camera for both market/farm and cooking moments.
Arrive Hungry: You’ll prepare and eat 6 dishes—pace yourself!
Health & Diet: Let them know ahead of time about allergies or dietary restrictions—they accommodate all.
Booking: Reserve in advance during high season to secure your spot. Cancellations allowed up to 24 h prior for full refund
This list really only scratches the surface of all the amazing experiences Bali has to offer.
We've written detailed guides about what's on offer in different areas around the island. You can check it all out in the
Bali Destinations section of our website.
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