The gorgeous island of Bali, Indonesia, is one of the most sought-after and diverse holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. Popular for its coral reefs, volcanic forested hillsides, yoga retreats, and world-class surfing spots, Bali makes for an unforgettable holiday getaway. The island boasts a plethora of accommodations from private villas, budget guest houses, to huts on the beach.
The island has a population of over 4,225,000. Sublime beaches, tropical rainforests, unique nightlife, volcanic mountains, scenic rice paddies, grand temples and coral reefs are just a few of the treasures this majestic island has to offer. The island is also home to many religious sites, such as iconic Uluwatu Temple.
Nestled in the south, the beach city of Kuta boasts lively bars, while Sanur, Nusa Dua, and Seminyak are famous resort towns. The island is also famed for its meditation and yoga retreats. Bali is easy to explore by renting a car or taxi and has numerous shops, bars, and restaurants.
Pamper your loved one with a romantic getaway in a secluded private villa along the coast. For families and large groups, you can book a spacious vacation home or a luxury condo near the main attractions. Explore Bali’s culture with family by staying in a thatched beach hut perched in a Bali cove and enjoy open-air dining. Whether you choose a luxury villa on the beach or traditional Balinese accommodation in the mountains, a private villa in Bali is the ideal way to relax and enjoy this island paradise.
Getting to your Bali accommodation
Most accommodations in Bali are concentrated around Kuta. From Ngurah Rai Airport, take a taxi to Kuta and prepare for a 10 mins drive. Once in your accommodation, you can explore the Island by renting a bicycle, car, or a motorcycle.
Explore further afield by walking around Kuta and nearby places such as Legian, which is a 30min taxi drive.
What to eat on your holiday in Bali
Sampling traditional Balinese dishes will surely be one of the highlights of your trip to this beautiful island. Satay (skewers of spicy minced meat) and nasi goreng (Indonesian version of fried rice) are two must-try dishes that can be found on most menus. Betutu, another Balinese favourite, is made with chicken or duck marinated with traditional spices. Babi guling is also very popular, featuring spit-roast pig stuffed with vegetables and local spices. The beachside cafés on Muaya beach (nestled in Jimbaran Bay) typically serve freshly grilled seafood such as clams, crab, calamari, shrimp, and lobster.
Bali's best beaches
Lined with stunning sandy beaches, enjoy Bali’s coastal life while sipping your favourite cocktail. Kuta beach is popular for its shopping and dining scenes, beautiful sunsets, and waves perfect for surfing and swimming.
A short walk from Kuta sits Legian Beach, popular among families for its white sand and easy access to beachside hotels, boutiques, and bistros. Also, Seminyak beach is a must visit for its classy array of cafés, restaurants, and shops.
Discover the art and culture of Bali
In addition to sea and sand, the magical island of Bali is known for its artistic communities, museums, temples, and incredible landscapes. Located in Pengosekan, Ubud, the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) is a compound with an art gallery, cultural centre, resort and restaurants. The museum includes two large buildings with exhibits showcasing a huge collection of artworks. Blanco Renaissance Museum in Ubud, which houses paintings, illustrated poetry, and lithographs by Philippine-born artist Don Antonio Blanco, is also worth visiting.
Discover an expansive collection of traditional Balinese and Indonesian paintings at Museum Rudana in Peliatan, and be sure to visit Gedong Kirtya in Singaraja, North Bali, which houses ancient Balinese manuscripts engraved on palm leaves with historical references to Balinese rituals and daily activities. Dream Museum Zone Bali (DMZ) in Kuta is a fun and interactive gallery featuring illusionistic three-dimensional artworks.
Dive into Bali's unforgettable nightlife
Your Bali holiday would be incomplete without experiencing the island's vibrant nightlife scene. Happening parties at Kuta Beach or the buzzing all-night clubs in Seminyak make Bali a world-class nightlife destination. Bali's nightlife offers a combination of delicious cocktails, fantastic food, unusual locations and world-class musical entertainment.
The nightlife scene in Bali emerges after the sun sets over Seminyak's, Kuta's, and Legian's diverse collection of pubs and bars. Chill out with a drink, enjoy the live music or party the night away at one of the nightclubs before heading back to your private villa as the sun comes up.
What to do on your holiday in Bali
There are plenty of exciting things to do in Bali to make your holiday unforgettable! Sanur Beach attracts travellers and locals alike with its quaint atmosphere and soft sand. A visit to Kuta, undoubtedly the most popular beach town in Bali, is also a must during your holiday, Shops, spas, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and a water park offer visitors numerous entertainment options day and night.
Alternatively, enjoy a cosy sunset dinner in Jimbaran, one of the island's most luxurious destinations. In addition to posh resorts, the town is famous for its sandy shoreline and fresh seafood. For a more adrenaline-packed day, head over to Bali Treetop Adventure Park to experience a range of adventure activities in the middle of lush forests. Visitors will also enjoy a bus safari ride at Bali Safari & Marine Park, the largest animal theme park in Bali and home to over 60 different animal species.
Must-see festivals in Bali
There's no better way to connect with locals and peek into Balinese culture than through its vibrant festivals. The BaliSpirit Festival, which features yoga, dance and music, is a celebration of the island’s spiritual culture and thriving musical talent. Ubud Food Festival is a three-day culinary extravaganza bringing together restaurateurs, food producers, and celebrated figures from the country's food and beverage industry. Other popular festivals to enjoy in Bali include the Tumpek Wayang shadow puppet festival, Bali Blues Festival, and Sanur Village Festival, which celebrates Balinese culture.
Bali holidays on a budget
Relax in a quaint garden hostel with unobstructed ocean views surrounded by shops, grocery stores, and restaurants where you can find cheaper food than in an all-inclusive hotel.
A cheap self-catering cottage or a private studio apartment is perfect for a romantic getaway in Bali. Families can book a budget-friendly beach holiday home with a fully-furnished kitchen near shops and dining establishments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I expect to pay for a holiday letting in Bali?
When visiting Bali, you can find holiday rentals from as little as $27 per night.
How many holiday accommodation offers will I find in Bali?
Visit Bali in February for the greatest choice of accommodation. This is the month during which the largest amount of Villa and House rental are available.
What holiday rental amenities do people typically look for when visiting Bali?
The most popular holiday letting amenity in Bali is Pool, followed by Internet in second place and Air conditioning in third.
How many accommodation offers are there in Bali?
You can browse 116,218 holiday lettings in Bali, and find great deals from $27 per night.
Are pets permitted in holiday accommodation in Bali?
There are 11,221 pet-friendly holiday accommodation offers in Bali, costing $247 per night on average.
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