Ultimate Bali Travel Guide: Insider Tips on Surfing, Stays, Eats & Must-Do Activities
As an avid surfer, I've long dreamed of Bali's legendary waves. Last October, I finally visited this Indonesian gem and discovered that its rich culture and welcoming people rival the perfect swells and turquoise waters.
At my favorite spot, Padang Padang Beach, I watched Balinese crews building sets for Eat, Pray, Love starring Julia Roberts and Javier Bardem. Revisiting the film recently brought back vivid memories of stunning beaches, affordable daily massages, and engaging chats with locals.
While the book's author found romance in Bali, my trip sparked a deep appreciation for its people, culture, and landscapes. Planning a visit? Here are my trusted tips based on firsthand experience.
Lodging in Bali
Accommodation prices vary by location. We started at Bali Sorgawi in Kuta for $30/night, including breakfast. The helpful, friendly staff convinced us to extend our stay beyond the initial two nights booked online.
Southern Bali offers budget options from $10/night bungalows to $55/night hotels. Near Padang Padang Beach, Ayu Guna Inn is $8/night and Kenanga Inn $15/night—both on the main road but without online booking at the time. Book ahead during peak season.
Beaches in Bali
Northern Bali faces the Bali Sea with sandier shores and slightly murkier waters, while southern Bukit Peninsula beaches on the Indian Ocean boast clear turquoise waters and reefs.
Top Surf Spots in Bali
Beginners: Start at Kuta Beach for gentler waves and space to practice. North of Kuta, try Canggu for longboarding or Medewi for one of Bali's longest point breaks—watch for sea urchins!
Southern favorites for intermediates/advanced: Padang Padang, Dreamland, Uluwatu, Impossibles, Green Bowl, and Bingin. Dreamland has sandy bottoms (others reef); surf at low tide for safety.
Getting Around Bali
Rent a scooter for $5/day in the south if you're confident—less traffic than Kuta/Ubud, and roads connect beaches easily. Locals offer cheap rides too.
For stress-free exploration, hire a car with English-speaking driver: $35/6 hours, $40/8 hours, $45/10 hours. Many hotels provide airport transfers; ours at Bali Sorgawi was included, and we paid $15 return from Padang Padang (haggle for less).
Where to Eat in Bali
Meals cost $1–$5, typically $2–$3. I enjoyed a $4 splurge: filet mignon, bottled water, and fried bananas. Options span global cuisines including Indonesian Cap Cay (sautéed veggies).
Things to Do in Bali
Hourly massages are $5 and world-class. Kuta has plenty; southern Bali fewer. Catch sunsets at Uluwatu's Pura Luhur temple and hike through caves to the beach.
Experience a Kecak Fire Dance—intense and authentic. Meet Ketut Liyer (from Eat Pray Love) in Ubud's Pengosekan, Mas (tel: 0361 974092; guide recommended). Shop, visit Monkey Forest (secure food), or tour northern rice fields.
Changing Money in Bali
Use small Rupiah bills for cheap vendors. Exchange USD in small amounts (<$100) at banks or trusted spots to avoid issues.
Flights to Bali & Best Time to Visit
Fly into Denpasar (DPS), 10–15 mins from Kuta, 20–30 from Bukit. I found October flights for $800 USD. Ideal: June or late September for great weather, fewer crowds. April–October avoids rains; July–August peaks pricier.
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