Last year, I watched my buddy scroll through his saved posts on Instagram – literally hundreds of Bali photos.
Rice terraces.
Hidden waterfalls.
Beaches that looked like they belonged in a dream.
He looked at me and said, “Man, when I finally get to Bali, I’m hitting all of these.”
I get it.
Bali has this pull that makes you want to bookmark every single spot you see.
But here’s the thing – I’ve actually been there, spent weeks exploring, and I learned pretty quick that not every saved post lives up to the hype.
So I’m sharing the places that actually deserve a spot in your collection.
The ones everyone’s saving for a reason.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Tegalalang Rice Terrace is the largest rice field, and it will be one of the busiest places in Bali.
But hear me out.
I almost skipped this spot because I thought it’d be too touristy.
Then I saw it with my own eyes, and honestly, the hype is real.
The rice terrace is incredibly impressive, and they also have a lot of fun activities here like swings, picture points, and ziplining.
My pro tip?
Arrive early if you want it crowd-free.
I’m talking sunrise early.
The golden light hitting those endless green layers is something you’ll think about for years.
And if you really want to escape the masses, check out Bamjar Mancunian which has no tourists and is very nearby.
Sometimes the best spots are right next door to the famous ones.
You just gotta know where to look.
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Uluwatu Temple And Beaches
Uluwatu is famous for its stunning cliffside views, world-class surf spots, stunning beaches, and iconic Uluwatu Temple.
When I first stood on those cliffs watching the waves crash below, I felt like I was on the edge of the world.
It’s dramatic.
It’s powerful.
And it’s definitely one of those places you’ll save a dozen times before you go.
The Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple takes place every day at sunset with around 75 performers, and the dramatic scenery makes the performance even more impressive.
Trust me on this – don’t skip the dance performance.
The chanting, the fire, the ocean backdrop.
It’s one of those experiences that hits different when you’re actually there.
Plus, the beaches in Uluwatu are arguably the most breathtaking on the island, with powdery white sand and crystal clear waters.
Ubud’s Cultural Heart
Ubud is Bali’s spiritual and cultural hub, surrounded by lush rice paddies, art markets, hidden waterfalls, and yoga retreats.
I spent four days here and could’ve easily stayed four weeks.
There’s just something about the energy in Ubud that makes you want to slow down.
The Ubud Monkey Forest is home to over 1,200 long-tailed macaque monkeys, which are sacred in Balinese culture and protected here.
And no, they’re not aggressive if you respect their space.
I watched them play, groom each other, and basically live their best lives in this beautiful forest sanctuary.
You can go on a batik-making tour, watch a traditional Balinese dance performance, or shop in the busy streets of the Ubud Art Market.
For me, just wandering the streets and stumbling into little galleries was enough.
Every corner has something beautiful to discover.
🗼 I Wrote a Book About My Japan Travel Catastrophes!
Before I landed in Tokyo, I thought I was the “Final Boss” of international travel. Spoiler alert: I WASN’T. 😅
🚅 I boarded the wrong Shinkansen and ended up in THE WRONG CITY. I confused locals with my “expert” bowing that was more awkward than accurate. I accidentally stumbled into a high-stakes Kendo practice thinking it was a tourist show. Sound like something you’d do?
“Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Japan” is your shortcut to avoiding ALL my cringe-worthy mistakes. ✨ Inside, you’ll find practical, LIFE-SAVING tips on etiquette, transport, money, and hidden gems that will save you time, money, and a whole lot of confusion.
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime Bali experience, you need to go on a Mount Batur Sunrise Trek – it is an early wake up, but it’s worth the effort.
I’m not gonna lie, you’ll be picked up from your hotel at 3 am.
Yeah, that early.
But when you’re standing at the summit watching the sun paint the sky orange and pink over an active volcano?
You forget all about how tired you were.
Hiking to the summit for sunrise is one of the most popular things to do in the Kintamani region in North Bali – grab a local guide and head up around 3am, and you’ll be rewarded with volcanic steamed eggs for breakfast.
Those eggs cooked in volcanic steam hit different after a tough climb.
It’s one of those mornings that becomes a core memory.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih is fast becoming THE place to visit for those wanting to skip the crowds at Tegalalang Rice Terrace near Ubud, and the good thing is Jatiluwih is so vast that if you follow one of the small trails off the main path, you’ll soon find yourself amongst the fields with no one in sight.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are breathtaking, with terraces stretching as far as the eye can see.
When I was there, I felt like I had the whole place to myself.
Just me, the breeze, and endless green.
The Jatiluwih Rice Terraces tend to be a lot quieter than the famous Tegalalang rice terraces in Ubud, and a tour includes lunch overlooking the beautiful terraces.
Eating lunch with that view?
That’s the kind of moment you save in your brain, not just your phone.
Tirta Empul Water Temple
Built in the 10th century, Tirta Empul temple is a Hindu Balinese water temple and is considered sacred by the community.
I watched locals perform their purification rituals here.
The dedication, the reverence, the peace on their faces.
I’ve taken part in Melukat ceremonies in several different places in Bali – each was slightly different, but always involved making offerings to the gods, then wearing a special sarong to enter the water and perform small rituals.
Participating in this as a visitor felt like being let into something really special.
Something ancient and meaningful.
Sebatu Temple in North Ubud is a favorite with natural holy water springs, koi ponds, and lots of greenery, striking the perfect balance between feeling authentic while still being well-equipped for tourists.
If you’re looking for a spiritual experience that’s genuine, this is it.
Canggu’s Beach Vibe
Canggu is known for its trendy cafes, beach clubs, and hipster vibe – perfect for a young crowd, surfers, and digital nomads.
This is where I spent most of my time.
The energy here is infectious.
Canggu is one of the main places to visit in Bali for first-timers looking to have fun, with vast rice paddies, beautiful beaches, magical sunsets, hip cafes, amazing brunch culture, and incredible boutique hotels.
I’d surf in the morning, grab an açai bowl at some Instagram-worthy café, then watch the sunset from the beach.
Finns Beach Club in Canggu is a huge beach club with four pools, two swim-up bars, and several dance floors with live music and DJs.
If you want to party, this is your spot.
The vibe is electric, the people are fun, and the sunset views are unreal.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Located in the village of Kemenuh near Ubud, Tukad Cepung Waterfall is a magnificent hidden gem that’s still relatively untouched by mass tourism since it’s well-concealed between rocks.
Getting down there requires a bit of effort.
There’s quite a steep hike to the bottom, so remember to bring your best hiking shoes.
But when you arrive?
When the sunlight hits the waterfall at the right angle, the entire place is illuminated by rainbows.
I stood there in that cave, watching light beams dance through the mist.
It felt like discovering something sacred.
If you take a right turn at the riverbed, you’ll be greeted by a second, smaller waterfall that can double as a natural shower.
Yeah, I took that shower.
No regrets.
Seminyak For Upscale Vibes
Seminyak is known for upscale beach clubs, stylish boutiques, and luxury resorts – this is Bali’s go-to for nightlife and shopping, and it’s also very family-friendly.
This is where you go when you want to feel a bit fancy.
Seminyak offers a vibrant and upscale experience with trendy beach clubs, fine dining restaurants, and chic boutiques.
I treated myself to a nice dinner here after roughing it in some of the more remote areas.
The restaurants are world-class.
The cocktails are creative.
And the beach clubs make you feel like you’re in some tropical movie.
If you are looking for luxurious vibes, head to the likes of Ku De Ta, the W Hotel, or Potato Head – all prestigious beach clubs.
Sunset at Potato Head with a cold drink in hand?
That’s a vibe everyone should experience at least once.
🗼 I Wrote a Book About My Japan Travel Catastrophes!
Before I landed in Tokyo, I thought I was the “Final Boss” of international travel. Spoiler alert: I WASN’T. 😅
🚅 I boarded the wrong Shinkansen and ended up in THE WRONG CITY. I confused locals with my “expert” bowing that was more awkward than accurate. I accidentally stumbled into a high-stakes Kendo practice thinking it was a tourist show. Sound like something you’d do?
“Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Japan” is your shortcut to avoiding ALL my cringe-worthy mistakes. ✨ Inside, you’ll find practical, LIFE-SAVING tips on etiquette, transport, money, and hidden gems that will save you time, money, and a whole lot of confusion.
Sidemen Valley
If there’s one hidden gem in Bali that needs to be on your bucket list, it’s Sidemen – picture rolling hills as far as the eyes can see, palm trees, and rice terraces.
This place stole my heart.
I rented a scooter and just… rode.
No map, no plan, just following roads that looked interesting.
In Sidemen, if you search ‘Spot for mount agung’ in Google Maps and drive to it, you’ll find one of the MOST epic viewing platforms in Bali with a PERFECT view of miles of rice terraces leading up to Mount Agung.
That view on a clear morning?
Mount Agung rising above the rice fields?
It’s the kind of thing that makes you understand why people fall in love with Bali.
Sidemen and Munduk are places where you can find incredible accommodation high up in the mountains with panoramic views – the perfect place to sit back, relax, read a book, and take in the island’s tranquil atmosphere.
Balian Beach
Balian Beach has a chilled-out atmosphere, and if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of beaches in Canggu, head to this hidden gem slightly further up the coast – this black sand beach is perfect for enjoying the summer sun while avoiding crowds.
I came here on a whim.
Found a little warung selling cold Bintangs.
Sat in the shade and just… breathed.
If you’re a yogi, there are several incredible yoga retreats where you can join for daily yoga class, and you’ll most likely be the only person there – the surf’s also good here.
It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think.
Where you remember that Bali isn’t just about checking off bucket list items.
