Bali is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in all of southeast Asia, and it’s easy to see why. The Balinese culture is truly unique and enchanting, the rice terraces, volcanoes and waterfalls are stunningly beautiful, and the sunsets are mind-blowing. Bali is a very tourist-friendly island, and it offers really peaceful remote areas as well as popular towns with hip and trendy cafes, bars and restaurants. Here are places you shouldn’t miss during your stay in Bali:
Seminyak
Seminyak is a seaside shopping cosmopolitan town where a modern, ultra-chic and trendy lifestyle goes hand in hand with the easy tropical island pace of living and the enchanting Balinese culture. You can go shop till you drop at galleries and boutique shops, go surfing, sip sunset cocktails at happening beach clubs, get pampered with Balinese massages and pedicures, and dance till deep in the night. At the same time, you may witness Balinese ceremonies when it’s full moon or on special days according to the ancient Balinese calendar. You can also eat real authentic Indonesian food at local warungs and on night markets.
Ubud
Ubud is also known as the cultural heart of Bali Island. For decades yogis, yoginis, soul searchers and hippies have traveled to this cultural town located in between river valleys and paddy fields of central Bali. This spiritual place of Bali is home to endless vegan and vegetarian restaurants, yoga studios, healers and artists. Around Ubud there are also plenty of things to do such as rafting, cycling through the rice fields and visiting art and craftsmen villages.
Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan
These gorgeous islands are part of Bali, and they are just a short boat ride away from the mainland. Nusa Lembongan is small and very tourist-friendly with lots of beaches, restaurants and cafes. Nusa Penida is the big sister of Nusa Lembongan, and it is a bit rougher, thrilling travellers who want to explore places off-the-beaten-track. Both Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are great places for snorkelling and diving. You can even swim with the magical manta rays and Manta Point.
Bukit Peninsula
Bukit Peninsula is located in the southern tip of Bali island, and it features endless stunning beaches and bays located at the foot of high dramatic limestone cliffs. Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Pecatu and Ungasan are all part of Bukit Peninsula and highlights include the Uluwatu Sea Temple where you can watch a traditional Kecak fire dance, Jimbaran Bay where you can munch on a seafood dinner on the beach, Balangan Beach and Dreamland for surfing and Blue Point for sunset drinks at Single Fin Beach Club. Get yourself a scooter and go explore all of the beaches in this area of Bali – you will love it!
Candidasa, Amed & the east
Remote, beautiful and peaceful – a trip to Candidasa and Amed is truly rewarding. The east coast of Bali features pristine black sand beaches, magnificent sunsets and sunrises and mesmerizing views of the sacred Mount Agung – Bali’s tallest volcano. Candidasa and Amed feature mostly calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The roads are empty, and the people are friendly. Perfect places to slow down a bit, relax and spend quality time with friends and family. Book your villa here.
Canggu
Canggu is most happening right at this very moment. It has always been a beloved surfer’s hot spot, but now, Canggu is increasingly popular among all travelers. There are weekend markets, yoga studios, healthy raw food cafes, beachfront party venues and live music hang-outs. Everyone seems to fall in love with Canggu so go check this place out for yourself. Find your Canggu villa here.
Written by Stephanie – Villa-Finder.com
