Discover the Island of a Thousand Temples: our guide to Bali

It’s hard to fully capture the vibrant, effervescent spirit of Bali. From the bustling street markets to the pristine white sand beaches to the tranquil Hindu temples where melodious chanting fills the air, this is an island of wonder and endless possibility. Filled to the brim with life, colour and joy, wellness aficionados, culture vultures, digital nomads, and beach bums alike will all find their spiritual home on this beguiling tropical isle.

Big enough to offer plenty of diversity, but small enough to explore properly in a couple of weeks, a holiday on this magnificent isle can be every bit as action-packed or low key as you like. Scale towering volcanic mountains, wander through lush rice terraces, discover vibrant coral reefs or simply lounge upon silky black sand beaches - your Bali break is yours to make. Already dreaming of this beautiful island? You’ll find plenty of inspiration in our exclusive Bali travel guide.

Abounding in Breathtaking Beaches

We wouldn’t have a complete Bali travelling guide without an entire section dedicated to the island’s many wonderful beaches. Brimming with pristine stretches of sand, Bali offers something for every kind of seaside aficionado. From buzzing party beaches and windswept surf spots to secluded shores cradled by the cliffs, you really will find every type of beach imaginable on this paradise island.

Nusa Dua Beach

Families will want to make tracks for Nusa Dua Beach - a long, wide, sandy and calm stretch of shore. The waves here are gentle and the waters shallow, meaning it’s a great spot for the kids to practice their swimming. And there’s plenty of opportunity for sandcastle building back onshore.

Saba Beach

If you like the convenience of a beach club, then be sure to check out Saba Beach. The Flamingo Bali Beach Club is nestled right on the unique black sands of this scenic bay, offering cocktails and cosy daybeds aplenty. Aside from the beach club, this is one of the quieter beaches on the island - perfect for peaceful strolls with little distractions.

Adventure Awaits...

Whether you are seeking solace or adventure, Bali has something for everyone. From chartering a private yacht to scaling the heights of the island’s mighty volcano, here are some of the awe-inspiring opportunities that await during your stay in Bali.

Find your inner zen

For the wellness seekers, there are ashrams and yoga retreats aplenty, as well as plenty of activities and sports to be enjoyed. Hone your meditation and asana skills under the guidance of a master yogi, either in-villa or at one of the island’s tranquil ashrams.

Go scuba diving in the island of Nusa Penida

There’s just as much beauty to be found below Bali’s waves as there is on land. Strap on a mask and fins and set off to explore this incredible underwater world. On the neighbouring island of Nusa Penida, you can swim with giant manta rays - growing up to a staggering five metres, these gentle giants are a sight to behold. Meanwhile, more experienced scuba divers can explore the Japanese Wreck and mesmerising coral reefs just off the coast from Amed.

Charter your own private yacht

As well as there being plenty to do on Bali itself, the island is also situated right next to three tiny islets: Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan Island. Charter a private yacht and spend the day exploring these little pockets of paradise: bursting with breathtaking beaches and famous beauty spots, such as Kelingking Beach and Devil’s Tears, it’s well worth the trip.

Our Bali guide to Buddhist temples

Take a look at any Bali trip guide and you’ll soon see that meditation is a big part of Balinese culture. As such, you’ll find an abundance of temples as you make your way around the island. Visitors are welcome to explore their grounds although you will need to wear a sarong - it is essential for entry into almost all of Bali’s Hindu temples.

Pura Tanah Lot

You’ll only be able to reach this temple at low tide, as it's set on a rocky formation just off the island’s south coast. The sea views are absolutely mesmerising from here - especially when the sun is setting.

Pura Luhur Lempuyang

If you don’t mind a strenuous hike, then the dramatic setting of Pura Luhur Lempuyang is well worth the trip. Set at the summit of Mt. Lempuyang, this beautiful temple is surrounded by clouds and has an idyllic, ethereal feel to it. If you are lucky, you may get to take in the breathtaking views with the sounds of the ceremonial priests chanting in the background - truly fantastic.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan

Set beside the shores of Lake Bratan, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is a mountain shrine elevated around 1200m above sea level. On clear days and when the water is calm, the temple is reflected onto the lake - creating the illusion that it is floating on its waters.

Our Bali travel guide to fresh local flavours

You can’t travel to Bali without indulging in the island’s local cuisine. Brimming with intoxicating flavour and endless fusion cuisines, Bali is truly a gourmand’s paradise. With a staggering variety of restaurants and cuisines on offer, you can feel free to indulge or detox as much as you like, while still making the most of the island’s delicious fresh produce. Keen foodies can even try their hand at a cookery class or two, bringing an authentic taste of Bali back home with them after the trip.