The Bucket List Guide to Bali

Sunday’s Beach Club

The perfect place for a full beach day, with Bali’s most breathtaking views and beautiful beach. You’ll take the funicular down the cliffside (have your camera out for this, the views are spectacular) to the private beach and then guided to the best available seating, with a beach umbrella and beach towel provided. From there, you can have the most relaxing sun-soaked day, enjoy complimentary water sports like paddleboards, kayaks and snorkeling and explore the crystal-clear lagoon. Insider tip: Get there early to avoid long lines when the beach club opens and keep an eye on the tide- as the tide shifts, more seating is created closer to the water and you can request to move up! Bring plenty of SPF and make it a full day visit- there is food and drink you can order directly from your spot on the beach. You’ll need to walk back up some steep steps to get back on the funicular, so save a little energy for when you’re ready to leave!

Suluban Beach

If you’re near Uluwatu, this beach surrounded by limestone cliffs is a must see. You’ll walk down steep steps to get to the beach, walk through a cave and then find a spot on the beach and enjoy the ocean view and surfers riding waves. Perfect spot for a sunset view!

Tirta Empul

Visit this water temple, considered sacred by the Balinese Hindu community, located in a village near Ubud. This temple has several holy springs which are said to have been created by the god Indra and believed to be blessed water that could purify those who bathe there. This temple is quite popular, so be prepared for a long line to bathe in the holy springs. To take part in the purification ritual known as melukat, you will start in the pool on the left side and stand under the first waterspout. Once you have cleansed under the first spout, you move on to the next, and this is continued until you have cleansed yourself under each waterspout. Stay aware of which spouts the locals are not bathing under- there are two spouts that are meant only for cleansing the dead and are prohibited to be used by the living for the melukat ritual. After, take your time exploring the large temple complex. Insider tip: Make sure you rent a sarong for a small donation near the temple’s entrance- wearing those are required to enter because it is a temple.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

For one of the lushest scenic views in Bali, visit the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. A photo-worthy spot of terraced hillsides of rice paddies, you can take in the view from the top of the terrace, and then venture down the steps into the greenery and walk the trail throughout. Insider tip: Wear comfortable shoes for steep steps and possible dampness if you plan to walk through the terraces!

The Infamous Bali Swing

If you’re in the mood for a little heart-racing adrenaline rush, stop by the Tegalalang Rice Terrace Swing. Here you’ll be harnessed into a swing that hangs between towering palm trees, and then assisted by experienced swing pros that will pull you back and release you to fly into uninterrupted views of the rice terrace and grasslands below. Insider tip: Have someone take a video and photos of you swinging (it’ll be funny to hear your initial scream on the first swing later, and you’ll end up with some amazing photos!)

Jungle Fish Pool Bar

Located in Ubud, this club is a must for an infinity pool view of the jungle below. Order a coconut and relax while soaking in sun above the Wos River Valley or take advantage of the swim-up pool bar for a cocktail. With a variety of seating options, there is a spot for whatever suits you! Solo Traveler tip: Book a sunbed for maximum chill vibes and plenty of space to spread out.

Samadi Bali

Located in Canggu, this is the perfect place to take a yoga or breathwork class, or immerse yourself in the holistic wellness that makes Bali so special. I had the Crystal Chakra Balancing done by a healer there, and it was an incredibly special experience. There is a plethora of holistic health and wellness offerings at Samadi Bali.

Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple

If “breathtaking” is what you’re looking for, then take a trip to this Hindu Temple. With panoramic views of the hills and Mount Agung, you’ll be amazed at the beautiful view of the Lempuyang Temple and “The Gate of Heaven”. Insider tip: You’ll want to bring a camera, take plenty of photos and have someone take a photo of you there (ask your driver or a stranger if you’re traveling solo). Also, make sure to have your shoulders and knees covered, and you can rent a sarong before entering the temple.

Snorkeling in Amed

If you’re looking to get away from crowds, explore the black sandy beaches in Amed and snorkel the underwater paradise there. With a view of Mount Agung Volcano above, and the abundant reef system and marine life below, Amed is a quiet getaway to enjoy Bali’s natural beauty. Take care while snorkeling to leave the reef and marine life respected and undisturbed- conservation efforts have kept the reefs healthy and the aquatic life vibrant. Insider tip: Snorkel at Kembali Reef, the sea there is usually calm, and keep an eye out for sea turtles! Bring your GoPro!

Private Surf Lessons in Kuta

A must-do while in Bali is trying to surf! Waves in the Kuta area are easy-going, and surf instructors are friendly and helpful. Private lessons are the perfect way to learn this ocean sport and the one on one instruction is helpful when you have little experience. Insider tip: Bring a rashguard and plenty of SPF! Grab a coconut from the nearby beachside vendors when you finish to rehydrate.

Breakfast

Kynd Community Café – The cutest (and pinkest) café that is as delicious as it is photo-worthy! With a mission to spread kindness, this 100% plant-based restaurant now has two locations, in Seminyak, and the newly opened location in Canggu. Wear your pinkest outfit, take pics and enjoy the vegan food. My fave dishes are: Berry Tropical Smoothie Bowl and the Avo Toast, with a lychee ice tea!

Watercress Café - With two locations, in Ubud and Seminyak, this sustainably sourced spot has delicious breakfast to start your day. Kick off your meal with the traditional Indonesian herbal drink Jamu or a super smoothie, and then indulge in the Decadent Cheese Toastie or the Eggs Benny.

Lunch/Dinner

Motel Mexicola - Located in Seminyak, this colorful Mexican restaurant calls itself the 1960’s lovechild of Acapulco, Ricky Ricardo and James Brown. Everywhere you look has a design element to delight, from custom neon lights to vibrant paintings and patterned walls. In addition to the jaw-dropping décor, the dishes are delectable and one of my favorite restaurants in Bali. My fave dishes are: Empanadas, Acapulco Ceviche and Chorizo Quesadillas.

Ling-Ling’s – Sometimes you just need sushi, and this is a fun spot to cure your craving. Located in the heart of Seminyak, this is one of my favorite lunch destinations. You’ll be served some yummy seasoned popcorn when you sit down, and the menu has a range of Japanese and Korean dishes. My fave dishes are: Gyoza, Atlantic Roll and Kimchi. If you feel like staying in, you can order food delivery! You can find Ling-Ling’s on the popular food delivery section of the app GoJek.

Sinssihwaro Korean BBQ – Located in the heart of Ubud, this Korean BBQ restaurant is quaint and open to the bustling street it sits on. It’s the perfect location to do shopping before or after your meal. My fave dishes are: Kimchi Fried Rice, Spice Ramen and Bulgogi Rice.

Single Fin - This cliffside restaurant overlooking the ocean in Uluwatu is one of the best views for dinner in Bali. This is the place to be for an amazing sunset, music and fantastic food. Featuring a variety of cuisines, there is something for everyone. My fave combination is: a Bintang Radler to drink with an order of Nasi Goreng.

Drinks

La Plancha - Located in Seminyak, this beachfront bar and restaurant is the perfect spot for late afternoon drinks. Brightly colored bean bags and traditional Balinese umbrellas decorate the beach and showcase the integration of Bali and Spanish influences. Take in the view of the sunset on the ocean, order tapas, listen to the live music and have a few drinks.

Old Man’s - If you’re craving a night out in Canggu, this local hot spot overlooks Batu Bolong Beach and is THE place for a Bintang and music. It’s especially fun during happy hour for a sunset drink.