Do you wish to go to a tropical paradise? Bali is beckoning. Its stunning scenery, diverse culture and countless chances for fun make it a place where your can feel alive again. This amazing island has something for every adventurer. Whether they need a brief trip or wanna stay there for many months.
In this comprehensive travel guide about Bali, we discuss all what you should know. Entrance requirements, peak periods to visit, secret locations in Bali, most beautiful beaches, necessary things to consider while in Bali and many other travel tips that you should know. Let Bali’s charm sweep through the air leaving behind awsome memories.
Entry Requirements for Bali – What’s New in 2024.
Going to Bali in 2024 is really easy, but there are some things to know. Knowing the entry requirements can help you avoid problems when you first arrive.
Visa and Entry Process.
Visa on Arrival (VoA): A newly revised Visa on Arrival (VoA) that costs $33 is used for entry into Bali by most visitors. The visa is valid for a period of 30 days but can be extended for an additional 30 days. To avoid long queues and to get started quickly, we recommend that you apply online (here) before your arrival.
Tourist Tax: A new tourist tax was introduced in early February 2024 to support and maintain the cultural sites and environment in Bali. At the moment it is 10 USD per person and can be paid at the airport directly or online via this link.
Customs Declaration – You will also need to complete a customs declaration form. This form does not have a cost, thankfully, and documenting your higher value items in advance can be very advantageous.
Best Time To Visit Bali: The Weather and Seasons
Bali is a destination that can be enjoyed all year around, but by understanding what the seasons mean, you can benefit from that knowledge to make your plan.
Dry Season: April to October
This is the best time of year to visit Bali for back-to-back activities. Exploring, surfing, and lounging at the beach is all possible on 1 day. Rain is rare and temperatures are not too high. Therefore it is easy to enjoy all the wonderful things bali has to offer.
Wet/Rainy Season: November to March
The wet season means less people, greenery, and ridiculously cheap accommodation. Generally, it may rain for a couple of hours in the late afternoon, but do not let that discourage you. The island is still spectacularly beautiful and providing less touristy days on your trip. Temperatures are hot and climate is more humid than in dry season. Nevertheless it is still a great time to visit.
We stayed in Bali during both seasons multiple times and have to say even if it is called seasons, due to climate change the weather is shifting a little. In our case we have experienced lots of rain during dry season and great whater during rainy season.
Avoid major holidays like Christmas, New Year and Easter. The island is packed, becomes more expensive and traffic gets even worse… if that´s possible somhow! 😉
Where to Stay in Bali: Best Areas and Hidden Gems
Choosing the right place to stay can significantly enhance your Bali experience. The island offers a range of popular areas known for their vibrant atmosphere and luxurious accommodations, as well as hidden gems that provide a more serene and authentic experience. Here’s a detailed look at where to stay in Bali to make the most of your trip.
Popular Areas:
Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu:
These are Bali’s active centers recognized globally for their energetic nightlife, trendy restaurants, and luxurious villas. Kuta has a very lively beach scene perfect for newbies surfer’s thus; it is very popular among youthful travelers and surfer’s. Seminyak is more of chic with posh beach clubs, high class shopping, and fine dining places hence preferred by those wanting an exquisite side of Bali. On the flip side, Canggu has a more relaxed ambiance as compared to Kuta and Seminyak but still possesses an active atmosphere through its beach bars, surf spots as well as an evolving café culture.
These popular areas, however, tend to be the most congested places in Bali especially during peak tourist seasons leading to bad traffic experiences. Long periods stuck in traffic can bring frustration if you really want to see the sights.
Our Advice: In case you are looking for balance between activities to engage in, shopping as well as nightlife then consider starting your Bali experience from Canggu. It has some activities going on but not like Kuta or Seminyak which are fast paced. If you want somewhere peaceful, continue going north until you reach Pererenan that is beyond Canggu. In this area, life moves at slower pace yet close enough to everything happening around it. Se
Ubud:
The cultural hub of Bali is Ubud, marked for its yoga facilities, beautiful rice fields and a thriving artistic community. It serves as a sanctuary for individuals yearning to connect with nature and experience the spirituality and artistry of this island in Indonesia. Nestled amidst verdant green paddy fields and dense forests, it five by nature an ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Despite having been a major tourist attraction especially among those interested in well-being and spirituality, Ubud still offers moments of tranquillity. In fact, mornings are most serene about this town so that visiting local markets, temples or taking part in yoga classes becomes easier at such hours. However at the afternoons the town becomes busy; hence if you want more peace during your stay then you may have to choose accommodation on the outskirts of Ubud. Here you will enjoy being near the city center but without being part of the crowd – thus experiencing both its vibrant urban life but also serene Balinese life style.
Uluwatu:
Beach lovers and surfers alike will find Uluwatu to be the best destination. The southern end of Bali is known for its steep cliffs, surrounding ocean views, and some of the most remarkable sites for surfing in world. Padang Padang, Bingin Beach are a couple of its beach’s that have few people and are more preferred to visit than Kuta or Seminyak where crowd making it good surfing spot.
One can’t miss out on this place because it has an iconic Uluwatu Temple. It stands on top of a hill with splendid view towards Indian Ocean hence spiritually relevant but also naturally beautiful. Moreover, this region has seen a rise of fashionable beach bars and luxury lodgings.
Important advice: When visiting Uluwatu, be ready to enjoy a quieter pace than in other beach towns further north. It’s an ideal place to relax, discover off-the-beaten-path beaches, and appreciate the stunning beauty of Bali’s coastline.
Hidden Gems:
Sidemen: should you be in search of an ideal area that is quiet and serene away from the noisiest parts of Bali, then Sidemen should be your destination. Sidemen is hidden away in East Bali and it is a beautiful idyllic spot where one can have peace amid the green fields planted with rice crops and traditional Balinese villages.
This makes it convenient for those travelers interested in seeing the beauty of nature without any huge populations around them. The place has extensive grounds for people looking for relaxation, yoga, or meditation; there are also few lovely boutique hotels that enable you to stay in solitude. You can visit there for about three nights so that you can enjoy peace and tranquility.
Amed: is found on east coast of Bali with its popular diving spots amidst ship wrecks as well as colorful sea creatures. Moreover, this location has fewer tourists making it more cost efficient than elsewhere along the coast. Ideal for an explorative trip into Bali’s aquasphere submerged beneath still waters, Amed provides tourists with an opportunity to experience aquatic life in a relaxed pace.
Munduk: is nestled in the northern mountains of Bali that come with cool weather occasions, all of which give one an opportunity to discover waterfalls as well as coffee plantations that have made this island popular globally. Less developed such that it offers an authentic experience of Balis’ nature’s beauty; however, it is fondly called a great place if you love hiking and visiting places not of any great importance. A proposed new ‘highway’ from Denpasar to the north may improve access to these areas but right now they remain tranquil retreats.
By choosing your location wisely, you can tailor your Bali experience to suit your preferences, whether you’re looking for bustling nightlife, serene natural beauty, adventure, or a blend of all these elements.
The Best Beaches in Bali: Top Picks for Sun, Sand, and Waves
Bali is a hot spot for beaches, each with its own special charm. Here’s a list of the top beaches you should check out:
1. Jimbaran Beach:
Overview: A long stretch of white sand that’s famous for its seafood market, where you can grab some fresh fish and have it cooked right there at the cafes nearby.
Highlights: Love watching planes take off and land from the airport nearby while enjoying some freshly cooked seafood.
2. Canggu Beaches (Batu Bolong and Berawa):
Overview: These beaches have a mix of gray sand and are a favorite among surfers of all levels. Batu Bolong is chill and trendy, while Berawa is all about beach clubs.
Highlights: If you’re near Echo Beach, you’ll see some really cool black sand and a quieter vibe, perfect for a sunset stroll or hitting up a beach club.
3. Seminyak Beach:
Overview: A lively beach filled with colorful umbrellas and bean bags, perfect for catching the sunset.
Highlights: Even though the waves are better for surfing, Seminyak is great for chilling out with a drink and watching the sunset.
4. Kuta Beach:
Overview: A great spot for beginners, Kuta Beach has waves that are easy to handle and a sandy bottom, making it a perfect place to start learning to surf.
Highlights: The busy vibe and the fact that you can take surf lessons make Kuta a great choice for families and those just getting into surfing.
5. Green Bowl Beach:
Overview: A hidden gem known for its crystal clear waters and natural beauty, you’ll have to climb up a steep hill to get there.
Highlights: Green Bowl is a favorite among the pros because of its strong waves. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling.
6. Padang Padang Beach:
Overview: This beach, famous from the movie Eat Pray Love, is accessed through a narrow rock passage.
Highlights: It’s got calm waters for swimming and nearby surf breaks for the more experienced surfers.
7. Pandawa Beach:
Overview: Perfect for swimming, with clear blue waters and a sandy beach, you can get to Pandawa Beach by driving through a road cut into the cliffs.
Highlights: Pandawa Beach is less crowded, giving you a more peaceful time. It’s ideal for families and anyone looking for a quiet day at the beach.
8. Melasti Beach:
Overview: Known for its clear blue waters and white sand, Melasti Beach is a dream spot for both relaxing and having some fun.
Highlights: It’s the perfect time to swim during low and mid-tide, and there are a few beach clubs around for some snacks and drinks.
Exploring Beyond Bali: Cool Islands Nearby to Check Out
Bali is just one of the 17,000 islands in Indonesia. Here are some nearby islands you might want to add to your travel list:
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan: These islands have awesome beaches and a chill vibe, perfect for swimming and lounging around.
Nusa Penida: Famous for its awesome cliffs and breathtaking views. Staying overnight lets you explore the island by avoiding the crowds. But you have to get up early.
Gili Islands: Made up of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, the Gili Islands are known for their crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs. They’re a great mix of chill and adventure.
Getting Around:
Getting around Bali can be tough with all the traffic and not much public transport. Here’s how to make it easier:
Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like Grab and Gojek are the go-to for getting around Bali. They have both car and scooter services, which helps you dodge traffic and save time.
Private Drivers: Hiring a private driver for the day is a smart move if you want to see a lot. It’s a good deal for groups and lets you make your own schedule. Expect to pay around 400,000 IDR (about $27 USD) for a half-day ride.
Scooter Rentals: If you’re good at riding scooters, this is the best way to see Bali. Just make sure you’ve got travel insurance for scooter accidents.
Our Tips:
Skip the Taxis at the Airport: Use the Grab Lounge outside the main terminal to book a ride at a set price. This saves you time and money and makes dealing with taxi drivers a breeze.
Plan for Traffic: Traffic can get pretty bad, especially in popular spots like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. You might need several hours for what looks like a short trip.
Accommodations in Bali: Options for Every Budget
Bali has a bunch of places to stay, from cheap homestays to fancy villas.
Homestays: The budget-friendly options start at $10-$15 a night. These are usually run by local families and have the basics.
Mid-Range Hotels: Costing between $50 and $100 a night, these hotels are comfy and usually in the middle of things.
Luxury Villas and Resorts: Starting at $100 a night, these places are top-notch and perfect for those who want to splurge.
Pro Tip: Mix and match your stays to get the best of both worlds. You can also score some great deals by staying in less touristy spots like Seseh, which is quiet and still close to the popular spots.
Eating in Bali: Where to Find the Best Food
Bali food world is a combination of everything, from the traditional Indonesian meals to food all over the globe.
Eat Local: To avoid missing out on Bali and save some money at the same time, find out where the origin of local dishes lie within mom-and-pop restaurants. You can generally find a meal costing about 1$ to 3$. In these tiny directions, you can have a real sense of authentic Balinese cuisine, such as fried rice (nasi goreng) or noodles (mie goreng).
Western Restaurants: For those who are used to taking Western foods there are numerous western restaurants especially in Seminyak and Ubud which is a touristy area. Here one needs to pay around 10 dollars per plate while vegans’ options and gourmet hamburgers are also available.
Use Delivery Apps: Grab and Gojek are examples of apps that allow people to eat different foods while remaining in their homes. This is extremely useful when you are far away from town and want to eat diverse types of meals.
Important Tips for a Great Bali Experience
- Avoid Tourist Traps: Skip the big group tours and go for a private driver instead. This way, you can avoid the crowds and get a more personal experience.
- Explore Different Areas: Don’t just stick to one spot. Bali has so much to offer, from cultural experiences in Ubud to beach fun in Uluwatu and diving adventures in Amed.
- Respect Local Customs: Be aware of local traditions and how to act respectfully. Dress nicely when visiting temples and avoid doing anything that might be seen as disrespectful.
Money Matters in Bali: Managing Finances
Even though credit cards are accepted by most places on the island, it’s advisable to have some cash. Here are tips for managing your finances:
Stick To ATMs of National Banks: Use only known ATM locations to avoid losing money due to scams and ensure that you withdraw the desired amount. Generally speaking, reliable services such as BCA or Mandiri can be relied upon since they are well-known national institutions.
Consider a Multi-Currency Card: Travel friendly cards like Wise are good options since they have low costs and good rates when exchanging money. If you plan on staying longer this can be really beneficial because changing money and using ATM machines may incur extra charges.
Use Cash for Local Experiences: Always remember that some places do not accept credit cards yet so carry cash when tipping or paying at local market areas. In many shops it is common to use local currency which makes it important to have enough cash for small purchases.
In Conclusion: What It Takes to Experience a Memorable Trip to Bali in 2024
Bali keeps evolving, providing contrasts between ancient traditions and contemporary luxuries. The island contains diverse terrains, lively cuisine, beautiful beaches as well as distinct adventures that suit all types of people. Regardless of whether you desire secluded locations or the lavish comfort found in high-end hotels or want to simply discover the depth of culture interwoven with this island, there’s no doubt your journey will be a memorable one.
Are you prepared for your trip to Bali in 2024? Don’t waste time; begin preparing your excursion today so that you could discover all the wonders this constantly changing haven has to offer!
