Curator’s statement
Bali has earned a top spot on bucket lists around the world, and for good reason. Tropical beaches, clear blue waters, incredible food, world-class surfing, and that elusive “Bali magic” you’ve seen all over social media—it really does exist. But here’s the thing: the dream doesn’t always match the reality, and if you’re going to make the long trip, I want you to arrive with the full picture.
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Things to do in Bali
Surfing: Bali is a surf paradise. Whether you’re a pro or a total beginner, there are excellent surf schools everywhere. Visit Canggu to meet up with Surfwell Surf School. Their knowledgeable teachers will ensure you are well-equipped to take on any break that comes your way.
Snorkeling: Hire a guide to take you to Nusa Penida to swim with the Manta Rays. Indo Compass Bali is a great option to take you from Bali to Nusa Penida with multiple snorkeling stops, a delicious cliffside lunch, and a view of the ever-popular Instagrammable Kelingking Cliff via private car. Seeing Manta Rays glide beneath you is a core memory-making experience!
Spiritual Healing: A visit to Pura Tirta Empul in Ubud is a spiritual experience you didn’t know you needed. Hiring a guide is highly recommended—they’ll walk you through the history and meaning of the purification ritual so you can fully immerse yourself in the process. Move through the series of pools and fountains in a rhythmic cleansing ceremony that’s both calming and powerful. Whether you’re religious or not, you’ll leave feeling more grounded, present, and connected...and a little wet!
Adventure: Trekking Mount Batur is one of Bali’s most iconic adventures—and for good reason. This sunrise hike begins in the early morning hours (think 2–3 am), but the reward is worth every sleepy step. After a moderately challenging climb, you’ll reach the summit just in time to watch the sun rise over the clouds, with views stretching across Lake Batur and Mount Agung. To get the most shut-eye, start this adventure from Ubud with a 2:30 am pickup. The beach locations (Canggu, Kuta, etc) require a 1 am pick-up. The summit is crowded, so be prepared to share this experience with others.
Culture: Experiencing the Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple is an unforgettable way to soak up Bali’s culture and natural beauty. Set on the edge of a cliff with ocean views, the temple becomes even more magical at sunset. The rhythmic chanting of dozens of bare-chested performers, the flickering firelight, and the backdrop of crashing waves all combine into a dramatic and powerful performance. Arrive early for the best seats—and don’t forget your camera. You will leave with the chanting imprinted on your brain, the most memorable ear worm.
Places to eat & drink in Bali
Canggu & Uluwatu: M. Mason—with locations in two spots, you can go twice! A hip and vibey ambiance that offers amazing shareable plates and delicious cocktails. The open kitchen allows you to watch the magic taking place over the flames of the grill. Try the wood-fired carrots or spiced cauliflower to start.
Ubud: Hujan Locale—a cozy spot giving living room vibes in the heart of Ubud, offering a modern take on Indonesian food. The tasting menu with wine pairings is a great way to get a sample of multiple items without breaking the bank. Two words, lobster dumplings.
Seminyak/Canggu: Caravan—if you want the beach vibe without the bumping music of Finn’s go to Caravan. You can sit at a table with your toes in the sand or relax in chairs on the beach (with full service). The menu is diverse and delicious. A small and quiet DJ keeps the atmosphere festive without being annoying.
Canggu: Ulekan—a must for authentic Balinese food in a stylish setting. We found ourselves a week into our time in Bali and realized we hadn’t had much Indonesian fare. Ulekan remedied this for us with a diverse menu of local favorites with an elevated twist. This is not your roadside Warung Nasi Goreng. They have small-plate options, which are a great way to taste multiple Indonesian foods. The corn fritters will remain in my dreams for the foreseeable future.
Uluwatu: The Bench Brewery — a great casual hangout with craft beer and food that well exceeds expectations of a brewery. Come for the beer that offers flavors of home (they have IPAs!) and an alternative to a Bintang. Stay for the amazing food, live music, pooltables, and TV’s playing rugby matches. I ordered the heirloom tomato salad, twice!
Brunch Club: If you’re in search of all-day brunch, stop your search here. Brunch Club is home to the infamous “porn cakes” and other brunch favorites. Porn cakes, you ask? Fluffy, jiggly, custardy pancakes that require 30-minutes prep time. With toppings like bacon and maple syrup (known as the American...fitting), sticky toffee, and even ice cream, you won’t be walking out of here wanting more! We balanced this indulgence with a smoothie bowl to bring our world back to somewhat of an equilibrium.
Need to know
Bali is buzzy, full of energy, and brimming with travelers from all over the world. It’s also incredibly crowded. The island has grown rapidly in popularity, and infrastructure hasn’t quite caught up. Think: single-lane roads handling two-way traffic, no sidewalks, and the kind of lawless driving that makes every car ride an adventure. A 2 km drive can take 30 minutes—no joke.
For some, this chaotic energy is part of the charm. For others, it can be overwhelming. If you’re expecting quiet streets and peaceful beach strolls, you’ll want to look beyond the most popular areas. But if you’re up for vibrant nightlife, amazing restaurants, crowds, mopeds, and the occasional stray dog—you’re in for a ride.
And to be clear—I loved Bali. I was ready to put a deposit on a villa before I left. But it’s important to know what you’re walking into so that your expectations meet your experience. This guide was created to help you navigate the island and design the kind of Bali trip that’s just right for you.
When to Go
The best time to visit Bali is during the shoulder seasons. May and June are ideal—just after the rainy season and before the July/August high season hits. The crowds are slightly thinner, the hotel rates are better, and the weather is typically sunny and warm. You’ll still see tourists, but it’s a bit more manageable.
Where to Go
Canggu, Seminyak & Kuta: These areas have exploded in popularity. Expect trendy cafes, lively nightlife, boutique shopping, and a whole lot of people. Great for social travelers, digital nomads, and first-time Bali visitors who want to be in the action.
Ubud: Nestled in the mountains and surrounded by rice fields, Ubud offers a slower pace and a more spiritual vibe. It’s known for yoga retreats, healing centers, and artsy cafes. While it’s still busy (and yes, traffic is still an issue), it has a more peaceful, reflective energy than the beach towns. Perfect for a wellness-forward reset.
Uluwatu: Set on dramatic cliffs overlooking the ocean, Uluwatu is the rising star of Bali. It’s a bit less developed, with incredible surf, clifftop temples, and jaw-dropping views. Fewer sandy beaches, more stunning infinity pools—and a quieter vibe (for now).
Beyond Bali: If you’re dreaming of remote beaches, unspoiled nature, and fewer people—look to the nearby islands. Lombok, Gili Trawangan, Komodo, and Sumba are all reachable by short flight or boat ride. Sumba, in particular, stole my heart. Let me know if you’re curious—I’d love to help you explore beyond the typical path.
Bali is a place of contrast—chaotic yet serene, overrun yet magical. The key is to go in with eyes wide open, embrace the beauty and the buzz, and choose locations that match your vibe. It may not be the untouched paradise the Instagram version promised, but it might just be something better.
And if you’re ready to start planning, you know where to find me.
Travel Advisor
Tilghman Whitacre
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Bali page.