Bali

One of the author's favourite Bali waterfalls, this 50-metre cascade offers spectacular jungle scenery and misty morning light away from the busiest tourist routes. Visit early and prepare for over 500 steep steps, with a strenuous climb back up.

Good to knowArrive around 8 a.m. for a cooler climb; avoid standing beneath the falls during the rainy season.

A sacred water temple near Tampaksiring; follow local etiquette for purification rituals.

Explore forest trails linking historic Hindu temples while watching the resident monkeys. Arrive early or near closing for fewer crowds, and remember that food attracts the wild monkeys.

Good to knowKeep your distance from monkeys and secure loose belongings.

The authors rank this remote waterfall as their favorite in Bali, with powerful cascades and rainbows in the spray. Allow about 40 minutes to hike down and arrive around 8 AM to avoid crowds.

Good to knowVisit in March–April for the most powerful falls; allow 3–4 hours to explore.

Layered rice terraces north of Ubud.

Highlighted as a must-see sacred sanctuary in Ubud.

Good to knowVisit in the morning for fewer crowds, or around 5 PM for the best photography light.

A sea temple perched on a high cliff; keep belongings secure around monkeys.

The authors enjoyed this waterfall's thrills before continuing to Sekumpul, recommending it as part of a northern Bali waterfall day.

Good to knowCombine it with Sekumpul and Git-Git while staying near Singaraja.

A beautiful bay for surfing or a relaxed afternoon on the shore, rather than swimming. Enjoy the rustic food stalls and sunset views from the overlooking cliffs.

Good to knowHead down after visiting the nearby cliff viewpoint at sunset.

These beautiful jungle waterfalls reward the trek with a peaceful setting and cool, refreshing water for a swim. The author found them almost deserted and spent around an hour splashing around.

Good to knowConsider a walking stick for the uneven jungle steps.

The authors highlight this as one of their favorite evening walks in Ubud.

Good to knowGo at sunrise for cooler conditions and a quieter path.

The author highlights its long beaches and lively music scene as an appealing coastal stop.

Good to knowOpen daily 8 am–9 pm.

Recommended as a popular brunch stop in Berawa.

Good to knowExtension cords are available for plugging in.

One of the author's favourite dining spots in Batu Bolong.

Good to knowExpect queues and scarce seating; bring a book rather than relying on the Wi-Fi.

Suggested as a popular place for brunch in Berawa.

Good to knowFor air conditioning, use the smaller downstairs area.

Suggested as an additional waterfall stop on a day exploring northern Bali alongside Aling-Aling and Sekumpul.

Good to knowUse Singaraja as a base for the easier journey.

Spend about an hour exploring this ancient site's cave and bathing pools. Its location near Ubud makes it an easy excursion.

Good to knowFollow the sparse signs beyond the Hindu compound to find the Buddhist temple.

Named among the author's favourite restaurants in Batu Bolong.

Good to knowThe French toast is large and sweet enough to share.

These UNESCO-protected rice fields are an iconic sight and a quieter alternative to the terraces at Tegallalang.

Visit on a Sunday for a lively market that complements Canggu’s excellent shopping scene.

Good to knowThe Sunday market runs 10 am–4 pm; some club areas require a minimum spend.

A narrow cascade framed by lush jungle makes this one of the author's favourite waterfalls in Bali. A steep, sometimes slippery 15-minute walk across bamboo bridges leads to excellent photography spots and rocky platforms beneath the falls.

Good to knowArrive before 10 am for fewer visitors and good photography light.

An iconic Canggu market that is particularly lively on weekends.

Good to knowOpen daily 8 am–10 pm; weekends have the strongest atmosphere.

The author recommends a sunrise hike or a longer trek to the crater's edge for expansive island views. Take water and suitable boots, and follow local volcanic-activity advice.

Good to knowBook a guided sunrise trek and allow around two hours for the ascent.

A rewarding waterfall reached through jungle scenery on a steep walk. Take care on wet ground and consider a guide for longer hikes in the area.

The authors' favorite Bali beach has quiet white sand beneath limestone cliffs and little beyond the sound of the sea. Walk down in the late afternoon and stay for sunset, when paragliders land on the beach.

Good to knowThe steep access road can be particularly tricky after rain.

A beach club below Uluwatu’s cliffs.

This offshore temple is especially beautiful at sunset and worth visiting despite its popularity. Go first thing in the morning if avoiding crowds matters more.

Good to knowForeign visitors cannot enter the temple itself.

A powerful waterfall offering a refreshing escape from nearby towns, with bathing in the river below. The author warns against diving because the water is shallow.

Good to knowBring cash for waterfall admission fees.

One of the author's favourite lesser-known waterfalls, impressive despite its modest size. It is only a short walk from the parking area.

Good to knowCarry cash for the entrance fee.

Do not miss the peaceful water-palace gardens and sacred pools where visitors can cool off.

A café overlooking the Tegalalang terraces, with a swimming pool.

The guide recommends booking a traditional Balinese dance show at the palace as a way to experience Ubud's performing arts.

Good to knowBook the show ahead to skip the ticket line.

This vegan Italian restaurant excels at flavourful comfort food, particularly handmade tempeh ravioli with mushrooms, vegan cheese and almonds. The spaghetti and meatballs and tiramisu are also strongly recommended.

Good to knowOrder two main dishes on Friday for a free tiramisu.

Included among the authors’ favorite places to stay in Canggu.

A quieter, affordable coastal base with a strong local feel and excellent snorkeling and diving. The authors also enjoyed exploring its less congested roads by motorbike.

Listed among the authors’ favorite accommodations in Amed.

Listed as a venue for the traditional dance performances the authors strongly recommend experiencing in Ubud.

Good to knowThe article lists Saturday performances at 7:30 pm.

A traditional Balinese homestay with a pleasant garden and terraces, within walking distance of Bingin's cafes and restaurants.

Good to knowPadang Padang Beach is just over a kilometre away.

One of the authors’ recommended accommodation choices on Nusa Penida.

Highlighted as one of Berawa's notable beach clubs.

Included in the author's favourite restaurant picks for Batu Bolong.

Recommended as a rewarding place to explore Bali's heritage, opposite the governor's office in Denpasar.

Included among Berawa's popular brunch recommendations.

Good to knowLook upstairs for additional seating and the coffee shop.

This projecting clifftop offers sweeping views over Balangan Beach and the coastline toward Kubu Beach. It is one of the authors' recommended sunset spots.

Good to knowArrive before sunset to secure a good spot.

The authors recommend their trusted local guide Yande for a customizable one- or two-day waterfall trip, based on years of traveling with him.

Good to knowAsk for Nick and Hannah's waterfall itinerary; admission fees and the guide's overnight accommodation cost extra.

Recommended as one of the best local options for surfing lessons.

Bamboo-built accommodation among rice fields near Ubud.

Recommended as part of Canggu's scenic beachfront, where coastal walks and watching surfers were highlights of the author's stay.

Good to knowBeachside vendors offer board rentals and surfing lessons.

Highlighted as one of Bali's must-see places, with natural hot-spring bathing.

A recommended beach for strolling along the coast and enjoying sunset, with prominent beach clubs nearby.

Good to knowVisit in the evening for sunset.

Highlighted for outstanding coffee in Batu Bolong.

Good to knowOpen 7:30am–10pm.

A memorable spot for a seafood barbecue right beside the water. Choose snapper, squid, prawns or tuna to be grilled over coals and served with homemade sambals.

Good to knowArrive just before sunset, as tables fill quickly.

The authors' favourite local beach combines a small sandy shore with coconut trees, limestone cliffs and impressive surf. Its relaxed, bohemian atmosphere is a major part of the appeal.

Good to knowBring swim shoes for the rocky, coral-lined entry into the water.

Praised as an excellent coffee shop in Batu Bolong.

Good to knowOpen 7am–8pm.

One of the authors’ recommended places to stay in Amed.

The cave-like opening reached on the descent to Suluban creates a striking frame for surfers emerging from the ocean.

Good to knowGo at sunset to see surfers silhouetted in the cave entrance.

Suggested as a popular food and drink stop in quieter Pererenan.

Fresh pasta made daily and simple Italian sauces are served in a sunny, relaxed setting. The author recommends pomodorino topped with stracciatella, crema di zucchini and tiramisu.

Good to knowOpen 9am–11pm.

One of the authors’ recommended accommodations for the Uluwatu stop.

One of the authors’ recommended Canggu accommodations.

Featured as a favorite Bali stay in the author's hotel recommendations.

Patient silversmiths guide beginners through making their own silver jewellery. The authors made rings here and counted the hands-on experience among their favourite Ubud activities.

Good to knowAllow more than two hours to finish your piece.

A longstanding author favourite with a carved circular entrance, koi ponds and a spiral staircase. Its menu accommodates vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian and raw-food diets, alongside refreshing iced drinks.

Good to knowThe kitchen closes at 10 pm, an hour before the cafe.

The authors' favorite place to begin a working day with breakfast and excellent coffee. Good seating, sufficient outlets and highly rated lunches make it a practical work stop.

Take in the lake while visiting Mount Batur; the author includes both in the day's route.

The authors recommend looking out for this giant statue while exploring the paths around Uluwatu Temple.

The author suggests this beach on Nusa Penida as an easier-to-reach alternative to Kelingking Beach.

Listed as another worthwhile stop for beach-hopping around Uluwatu.

Listed as another appealing option for brunch in Uluwatu.

One of the authors’ favorite accommodations around Jatiluwih.

Part of the coastline the author loved exploring on foot, with surfers offshore and vivid evening skies. Surfboard rentals are available along the beach.

Good to knowVisit at sunset to watch surfers against the evening sky.

One of the authors’ recommended places to stay around Munduk.

One of the authors’ recommended places to stay in Seminyak.

These triple falls offer an additional waterfall stop a short hike from Sekumpul.

Good to knowThe long trekking option includes Fiji, Hidden and Sekumpul waterfalls.

Striking bamboo buildings, ocean views and four pools make this a standout beach club. Nine bars and daily DJs provide plenty of entertainment.

Good to knowEntry is free; open 10 am–midnight.

This enormous depiction of Vishnu riding Garuda is a striking landmark and the centrepiece of GWK Cultural Park.

A small shop near Echo Beach serving rich Italian-style gelato made with natural ingredients. Coconut and pistachio are favourites, alongside the locally inspired tropical flavours.

Good to knowOpen 9am–9pm.

Listed among the author's favorite Bali hotels and places they booked.

The author's favourite beach on Bali combines white sand, turquoise water and lush rainforest in a secluded south-coast setting.

Good to knowBuy supplies at the top before descending the long, steep staircase.

The author recommends stopping at this temple before exploring the neighbouring rice fields.

The author recommends watching the haunting Kecak dance beneath the towering bust of Vishnu for a memorable introduction to Balinese culture.

Good to knowThe article lists opening hours of 9 am–8 pm.

This spacious cafe impressed the authors with its sweeping bamboo ceiling, attractive seating and excellent food and coffee. It serves breakfast all day, with vegan choices including plant-based pizza, and has a children's playroom.

Good to knowOpen 8 am–11 pm.

A photogenic gate framed by mountains and lush greenery. The authors suggest stopping on the journey from Jatiluwih.

Greenery-covered rocks and cascades falling from multiple directions create a surreal, atmospheric setting. The mist makes this a particularly rewarding photography stop.

Good to knowChoose the recommended medium trekking option to visit both Hidden and Sekumpul waterfalls.

The authors stayed at this new property on their latest visit and found it very reasonably priced for its location.

One of the popular places to eat and drink highlighted in Pererenan.

A lush retreat with antique-filled villas, a lotus pond and richly coloured interiors celebrating Balinese culture. The property also offers a spa, five restaurants, a pool and weekly Balinese dance performances.

Good to knowThe beach is just 100 metres away.

An unpretentious, comfortable coffee shop that roasts its own beans. Its expertly made drinks feature remarkable latte art from an award-winning team.

Good to knowOpen 8am–5pm.

Listed as one of the authors' accommodation recommendations for Uluwatu.

Suggested as another yoga studio to explore beyond Ubud's largest and busiest yoga complex.

Recommended for its peaceful setting and good snorkeling, diving, and swimming, with accommodation nearby.

A peaceful rice-field walk offering beautiful rural scenery without Tegalalang's crowds. Its northern end connects through jungle to the Sari Organik Walk.

Good to knowContinue north to link it with the Sari Organik Walk for a loop.

One of the waterfalls highlighted for exploring the lush landscapes surrounding Ubud.

Good to knowExpect crowds at this popular waterfall.

Included among the authors’ favorite accommodations for a stay near Ubud.

A beautiful beach rewards those who tackle the demanding 40–60-minute descent down a steep trail. Strong currents make swimming unsafe.

Good to knowAvoid descending at sunset: the hike and high waves become more dangerous in darkness.

The authors' favourite dining spot combines a relaxed beachfront atmosphere with outstanding Bingin views. They especially recommend the tofu bao buns and a ginger mojito.

Good to knowGo at sunset for the best beachfront views.

A reasonably priced favourite serving rotating vegetarian and vegan curries and dahls, available as thali plates or individual portions. The authors particularly recommend the samosas, alongside drinks such as lassis and chai.

Good to knowDosas are available on weekends.

Listed among the authors’ favorite accommodations near Jatiluwih.

Included among the authors’ favorite Amed hotels.

One of the authors’ recommended favorite hostels in Ubud for travelers exploring the surrounding area.

The author recommends booking a suite for a stylish stay in a particularly beautiful property.

The author's favourite Mexican restaurant in Bali serves vibrant, street-food-inspired dishes with meat and vegetarian options. Standouts include BBQ corn, cauliflower tacos, jackfruit quesadillas and cauliflower popcorn.

Good to knowCocktails can be ordered by the jug for groups.

The authors praise this market's attractive setting, with around 150 stalls selling fruit, bags, and clothing alongside live music.

Good to knowA reader reports in the comments that La Laguna has permanently closed.

Recommended as another good option for travellers wanting to practise yoga around Uluwatu.

A favorite excursion from Amed, with a treetop viewing platform overlooking rice paddies and Mount Agung.

A favourite vegetarian cafe with vintage furniture, lofty ceilings and a relaxed atmosphere. Try the omelette and oat latte for breakfast, or the tempeh burger with a Blue Seduction cocktail later.

Good to knowOpen from 8 am, closing at 9 pm Sunday–Thursday and 10 pm Friday–Saturday.

Included among the author's favourite places to eat in Berawa.

Good to knowPour the accompanying soup into your noodle bowl.

An uncrowded beach recommended for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, and as an area to stay.

These famous signs offer a photo stop beside the Tegalalang rice terraces.

Good to knowThe signs are beside the valley road, so you do not need to walk through the fields.

These famous signs offer a photo stop beside the Tegalalang rice terraces.

Good to knowThe signs are beside the valley road, so you do not need to walk through the fields.

A lively mix of outdoor pizzeria and nightlife venue, serving excellent Neapolitan-style pizza alongside DJs and cocktails. Try the margherita with chilli oil, siciliana or funghi, paired with a Moscow Mule or Negroni.

Good to knowOpen from 4pm until late.

A small buffet-style cafe with the fastest WiFi measured in the article. Breakfast is good, but the daily themed lunch and dinner buffets are the main draw.

Good to knowVisit at lunch or dinner for the daily themed buffet.

The author's top choice for eco-minded travellers uses sustainable materials and passive tropical design. Its eight modern villas share a large freshwater pool and wellness centre.

The authors' overall favorite working cafe has excellent seating, abundant outlets and reliable WiFi. Food and coffee are less impressive, but the workspace includes comfortable desk chairs and air-conditioned rooms.

Good to knowChoose one of the two air-conditioned rooms for a cooler workspace.

Included in the authors’ selection of favorite hotels on Nusa Penida.

A charming warung on pedestrian-friendly Jl. Gootama, praised for excellent food and cheerful staff. Chalkboard menus include options for vegans, vegetarians and meat eaters.

Good to knowBring cash; credit cards are not accepted.

A lively Polynesian seafood restaurant with a candlelit, bohemian tiki-bar atmosphere. Poke bowls and the tuna platter are popular choices.

Good to knowReserve a table for dinner, when seats fill quickly.

Morning yoga takes place in an open-air, thatched-roof hut surrounded by jungle, with glimpses of the sea through the foliage.

Good to knowThe daily class starts at 7:30 am.

A steady rainforest ascent from the western side of Lake Tamblingan rewards walkers with views of the volcanic crater and Munduk Valley.

Good to knowBook an overnight hike for stargazing and a night surrounded by jungle sounds.

This luxurious ocean-view retreat combines beach access with an infinity pool and spa. Guests can also enjoy surfing, yoga and Balinese food overlooking the sunset.

Good to knowBook an early dinner for sunset views.

Listed as a favorite accommodation for the Munduk portion of the itinerary.

Included among the authors’ favorite stays around Munduk.

The authors treated themselves to a night here for the spectacular panoramic views and infinity pool.

Included in the author's recommended coastal walks, offering the simple pleasures of sand, waves and colourful sunsets.

Good to knowThe author recommends rinsing your feet after crossing the polluted river mouths.

Named among the recommended cafes to explore for brunch in Uluwatu.

One of the popular Berawa brunch spots highlighted by the author.

Included among Canggu's beaches for sandy strolls, sunsets and surfing. Nearby vendors rent boards and offer lessons.

Good to knowSunset is a particularly rewarding time to visit.

Old Man’s terrace becomes a small monthly market offering pastries, clothing, jewelry, and other finds.

Good to knowCheck the schedule: the heading says Saturday, but the text says the last Sunday of the month.

This strenuous route combines monkey spotting, a cave stop with cool water for tired feet, and a scenic walk through the Penet River Valley.

Listed among Uluwatu's finest beach clubs for oceanfront relaxation and nightlife.

This small market near Echo Beach brings together local produce, baked treats, fresh juices, organic coffee, and chocolate, with music adding to the atmosphere.

Good to knowHeld every Sunday.

A refined, minimalist restaurant that becomes a candlelit dinner spot after dark. The authors loved the vegan chorizo bolognese; the menu also includes seafood, duck and Swedish vegan meatballs.

Good to knowThe crispy-skinned barracuda sells out quickly.

Named as another beach not to miss when seeking beautiful alternatives to Bali's busiest stretches of sand.

Good to knowVisit at low tide for more beach space and shallow-water splashing.

Listed among the authors’ favorite hotels around Uluwatu.

Listed among the authors’ favorite places to stay on Nusa Penida.

Suggested for travellers wanting a retreat that combines yoga and surfing just north of Canggu.

A popular vegan spot with good coffee, tasty food and plenty of comfortable seating in an air-conditioned setting.

Good to knowAir conditioning is available downstairs, but power outlets are limited.

A welcoming vegan restaurant praised for its smoothie bowls, oat lattes and consistently delicious food. Recommended dishes include the Super Toastie, Mediterranean Bowl and Powerhouse Bowl.

Good to knowSelected brunch dishes are half-price on Sunday mornings.

One of the beaches recommended for leisurely coastal walks and glowing sunsets. Beachside board rentals also make it convenient for surfing.

Good to knowVisit in the evening for sunset.

Listed among the authors’ favorite Ubud hostels in their accommodation recommendations for visiting the terraces.

This vegan fast-food spot offers fast WiFi, plenty of power outlets and comfortable upstairs seating. Despite its suitability for working, it does not serve coffee.

Good to knowHead upstairs for the best seats.

A chic, adults-only retreat recommended for its peaceful atmosphere and convenient base for exploring the Ubud area.

Bali's largest Hindu temple complex occupies an impressive mountainside setting and has a long history of worship. Be wary of unofficial requests for extra payment.

Recommended for a traditional dance performance featuring rhythmic chanting, Balinese storytelling and fire. Watching the Kecak dance was the authors' most moving experience of the trip.

Good to knowPerformances are listed for Wednesdays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm.

One of the Hindu temples open to visitors in central Ubud, making it an accessible stop for exploring Balinese religious culture.

Good to knowCover your knees and shoulders; entry costs 10,000 IDR.

The author highlights this as the most prominent temple within the historic Besakih complex.

This picturesque lakeside temple is a worthwhile stop on a journey north. Allow 30–60 minutes, or hire a boat to explore more of the surrounding lake.

A striking jungle setting for sound healing, breathwork and spiritual ceremonies. Its grounds also include a cafe serving homemade plant-based food.

Good to knowCheck the venue's website for its varied class and ceremony schedule.

A well-loved, highly rated yoga studio in central Ubud, suggested as an alternative to the crowded Yoga Barn.

Good to knowThe article lists drop-in classes at 140,000 IDR.

One of the author's favorite hotel choices in Bali, featured in their selection of booked stays.

The authors loved these traditional Balinese bungalows for their lush gardens, outdoor bathrooms and exceptionally helpful staff. Complimentary breakfast and a pool with children's toys make it particularly appealing for families.

Good to knowBingin Beach is just three minutes away.

An easy walk near Munduk leads through coffee, avocado and vanilla crops to a waterfall framed by dense jungle vegetation.

Good to knowAllow time for a relaxed lunch stop before walking back.

One of the author's highlighted dining recommendations for Canggu.

A small, air-conditioned cafe with exceptionally good food, good coffee and some of the area's fastest internet. Comfortable seating makes it suitable for a few hours of laptop work.

Good to knowPower outlets are limited.

Included among the authors' recommended places to stay in Uluwatu.

Highlighted as a popular yoga and wellness centre for practising in Canggu.

Good to knowHeld Sundays, 8 am–4 pm.

One of the recommended places to stay while exploring Jatiluwih.

The starting point of the Old Nature Cave Trek offers a chance to watch monkeys in their natural forest surroundings.

The author recommends this restaurant for Balinese fine dining. Order the langoustine pangsit with rujak sauce.

The authors stayed here and appreciated the clean rooms and surrounding rice fields. It sits beside the Twin Waterfall entrance.

One of the authors’ recommended Ubud hotels.

Also known as the Ubud Water Palace, this central temple is tucked behind Cafe Lotus and is recommended for a temple visit.

Good to knowThe article lists admission as free.

This quieter walking route passes rice fields close to central Ubud before continuing into rainforest. It makes a scenic alternative to the busier terraces.

Good to knowConnect with the Kajeng Rice Fields through the jungle to make a loop.

Listed as a favorite accommodation for exploring the Jatiluwih area.

Named among Uluwatu's finest beach clubs for ocean views, daytime lounging and evening drinks and music.

An attractive, air-conditioned vegan restaurant offering good coffee, desserts and a varied menu spanning brunch, pizza, falafel, curry and ramen. It works equally well for daytime laptop sessions and evening gatherings.

Good to knowBring a reusable bottle for the free water refill station.

A jungle-surrounded restaurant growing much of its own produce, with exceptionally fresh Southeast Asian and Western-inspired dishes. The vegan moussaka was the authors' favourite meal in Uluwatu, and they also loved the charred cauliflower.

Good to knowHappy hour runs until 7 pm, with cocktails listed at 50,000 IDR.

Highlighted for its relaxed beach-club scene and included among Bali's popular destinations.

Good to knowHeed coastal warning flags even when conditions look calm.

One of the author's favourite coffee spots on the island. Try the coconut coffee, which was good enough to prompt a second order.

Recommended as one of Canggu's popular yoga studios.

A peaceful, traditional-style hotel with sweeping rice-field and green-valley views. The authors particularly praise its pool.

Good to knowBreakfast can be added for £5, according to the article.

Known for its rich eight-hour chicken broth and freshly made noodles using local ingredients. The vegan Mushroom Miso Ramen also impressed with its generous mushrooms.

Good to knowOpen 11am–11pm.

A cliffside bar with spectacular views of surfers and the ocean, ideal for drinks, snacks or dinner as the sun sets. Shaded terrace seating also makes it appealing in the afternoon.

Good to knowVisit at sunset for the most dramatic views.

A recommended stop on the drive north to sample Bali's strawberries.

A sustainable boutique resort combining tropical architecture with luxurious rooms and villas. Two outdoor pools, terraces and panoramic ocean views make it a standout stay.

Recommended as one of Uluwatu's worthwhile brunch cafes.

Reached through a winding network of stairs beneath Single Fin, this dramatic beach is recommended for surfers and lovers of coastal scenery.

Good to knowAccess involves descending several staircases from Single Fin.

A beautiful, generally less crowded waterfall framed by hanging vines. The authors especially enjoyed the expressive carvings covering rocks around the river.

Good to knowAccess involves a steep staircase cut into the cliffside.

This living-room-style cafe is a comfortable place to combine lunch with work. It offers good coffee, great food and air conditioning throughout.

Good to knowPower outlets are limited.

Featured as one of the authors’ favorite hostels in Ubud, a useful base for a trip to Tegalalang.

Recommended as a sightseeing stop on the drive from Canggu to Jatiluwih.

The author recommends this water palace for its beauty and includes it among Bali's must-see sights.

An affordable bohemian-style hotel with earthy interiors, a palm-fringed pool and a spa. Some rooms offer direct pool access or separate seating areas.

Good to knowThe article quotes rooms at US$70–95.

Admire the lush rice terraces while relaxing with tea and Balinese treats. Restaurants above the fields offer excellent views, though food quality can vary.

Good to knowGo early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Featured among the author's best places to visit in Bali for its rice-terrace scenery near Ubud.

Gentle trails through rice fields and coconut palms make these terraces a beautiful alternative to a demanding mountain hike.

Good to knowCarry small bills for donations to the locals who maintain the fields.

A rugged beach where the authors recommend relaxing after swimming in the nearby natural pool. It is another five-minute walk downhill from the pool.

Good to knowAvoid swimming here because of rocks and strong waves.

A clear freshwater pool beneath the jungle canopy, with sunlight filtering through the leaves. The authors love this unusual Nusa Penida spot for a refreshing dip alongside local children.

Good to knowThe access road is very steep; walk or ride with a local unless you are an experienced motorbike driver.

This leafy, laid-back eatery was an almost daily stop for the authors, especially for its generous salads and juices. Order the superfood salad, dirty veggie burger or coconut smoothie.

Good to knowThursday nights feature a lively party.

Included among the authors’ favorite places to stay around Uluwatu.

This smaller beachfront club won the author over with excellent live music. Come to dance or relax on a stylish daybed beside the beach.

Good to knowEntry is free; open from noon daily.

Listed among the authors’ favorite Seminyak accommodations.

Good to knowNovember to March is a good period for learning on smaller waves.

An airy, spacious cafe that the authors repeatedly visited for excellent oat milk lattes and protein smoothie bowls with peanut butter, dates and cacao nibs. Reliable Wi-Fi also makes it attractive for remote work.

Good to knowOpen 8 am–9 pm.

Included among the authors' suggested places for brunch in Uluwatu.

One of the popular studios recommended for taking a yoga class in Canggu.

A leafy garden setting for straightforward vegetarian food rather than elaborate dishes. It's a good choice for eggs, halloumi and excellent smoothies in a meat-free environment.

Good to knowOpen 8am–9pm.

The authors' favourite Uluwatu yoga studio pairs excellent teachers with striking bamboo architecture. Upstairs practice rooms overlook the treetops, while the complex also includes a sound-healing dome and coworking space.

Good to knowDrop-in classes cost 120,000 IDR.

A sprawling bamboo-built yoga complex with studios, workshops, a spa and a cafe the authors enjoyed. They consider it worth visiting even if you are not taking a yoga class.

Good to knowExpect large classes, sometimes with around 100 participants.

Included among the popular beaches to explore around Uluwatu.

A cosy cafe with a leafy back garden, excellent coffee and an extensive all-day breakfast menu. Try the chickpea-flour vegan omelette, poke bowl or Vegan Sunset Bowl.

Good to knowOpen 7 am–9 pm.

Recommended in the authors’ favorite accommodation list for the Jatiluwih stop.

An impressive water temple with more than a millennium of history. Wander the sacred grounds and observe the purification baths at the river's source.

An Indonesian-owned coffee shop roasting its own beans in a minimalist space near Ubud Palace. The authors rate its hot oat latte as the best in Ubud.

Good to knowLook upstairs for the airy floor-seating area.

Named among the area's popular waterfalls for visitors seeking dramatic water-and-jungle scenery.

Good to knowExpect crowds and carry cash for admission.

This jungle walk offers views of Lakes Tamblingan and Buyan, abundant vegetation and wildlife. A secluded temple in the woods adds another memorable stop.

Good to knowArrange a reputable guide before setting out.

Recommended as a peaceful jungle retreat, with cultural markets adding to its appeal.

One of the main markets suggested for exploring Ubud's arts-and-crafts shopping scene and picking up souvenirs.

Good to knowBe prepared to bargain with vendors.

A recommended stop for browsing Balinese-style souvenirs, colourful clothing, paintings and decorative figurines.

Good to knowHaggle, and compare prices because many stalls sell similar goods.

Finish the day's sightseeing with a visit to this palace, the final stop on the author's route.

Listed as one of the authors’ favorite places to stay in the Ubud area.

A yoga studio set among rice fields, recommended as another option for practising yoga around Ubud.

This historic complex combines pools, fountains, greenery and impressive Balinese architecture. It is recommended for adding culture and history to a beach-focused holiday.

One of the authors' suggested beach clubs for seaside lounging, cocktails and a lively evening atmosphere.

A must-visit lakeside water temple; arrive early to avoid the crowds.

A popular, affordable local buffet that becomes especially lively at dinner. The author appreciated the staff's care in helping vegetarians choose suitable dishes.

Good to knowExpect queues and limited seating around dinnertime.

This luxury bamboo accommodation is recommended for an open-to-nature retreat with rice-field views. The authors enjoyed the tranquility away from Bali's busier destinations.

Included in the authors’ selection of favorite Seminyak stays.

The author enjoyed a relaxed afternoon at this quieter club, with an infinity pool and ocean views away from the bigger crowds.

Good to knowEntry is free; open 9 am–10:30 pm.

Go at sunrise for sweeping views across the Twin Lakes.

A popular lunch stop for travellers seeking good Indonesian food at a low price. It tends to be less crowded than Varuna Warung.

Good to knowVisit earlier in the day when the food is freshly cooked.

Guided walks explore forest canopies, mangroves and beaches, with opportunities to spot leaf monkeys, barking deer and Bali starlings. The marine area also offers snorkelling and diving.

Good to knowA permit and guide are required; independent trekking is not allowed.

A bright, breezy cafe near the beach with spacious seating, a rooftop and a bamboo-treehouse coworking area. The setting is the main attraction, with good food and coffee from its own roastery.

Good to knowThe attached coworking space is free to use.