JP

Bali is one of Indonesia’s most popular holiday destinations as there is something for everyone on the island. From fun family rides to romantic honeymoon trips, with endless festivities and one-of-a-kind experiences, they are all spread over different parts of Bali.

But first, let’s revisit the beaches. Bali’s shorelines are often categorized by what you want to enjoy. If you’re not a morning person and prefer a romantic sunset, Kuta and Legian are perfect for this. Even better, in the two areas, sundown marks the beginning of fun. Step away from the crowd to Jimbaran, where you can experience memorable seafood dinners with your loved ones and continue to have a tranquil stroll at the more private Tanjung Sanghyang.

However, if you want to start your beach itinerary early in the morning, Sanur is the perfect place to catch a sunrise. Continue to find surfers’ waves at Echo Beach and the beaches of Canggu, or explore the sea turtle sanctuary at Lepang Beach and the sacred Klotek Beach. A little more adventure will take you to hidden corners of Bali, where you can explore more beautiful and quieter waterfronts.

Another thing you don’t want to miss while in Bali is taking a tour of the temples. From the most popular Tanah Lot to the legendary Uluwatu, Bali never ceases to amaze you with stunning temples and sanctuaries spread across the island. Tanah Lot Temple is a sea temple in Tabanan region, making it a popular spot to catch the sunset. Its offshore shrine is surrounded by water, while its onshore side is filled with shops and restaurants for tourists. As this iconic temple is almost always included in Bali’s travel packages, it may be really crowded on weekends and holiday seasons.

As an alternative, you may want to visit Uluwatu Temple, which also offers spectacular sunset views. Unlike the offshore Tanah Lot, this temple is located on a cliff and is inhabited by monkeys. Aside from its unique location, Uluwatu is also one of the oldest temples in Bali, dating back to the 11th century. However, the largest temple in Bali is Besakih, which is located on the slope of Mount Agung. Besakih is a complex comprising 23 different temples, with Pura Penataran Agung as its main and most important shrine.

Fun is also in abundance for families taking their excited children on school breaks. Places like the Botanic Garden Ubud is home to outbound facilities, orchids, lotus ponds, butterfly gardens, local plants like cinnamon and a maze. The garden provides plenty of sights to see.

JP/Zul Trio Anggono

Monkey Forest

While you’re in Ubud, take the kids to the Monkey Forest, a one-of-a-kind experience that allows them to walk among monkeys and see them in the Hindu temple complex. The 12.5-hectare conservation area is home to more than 600 monkeys, which are divided into six different groups.

The award-winning Bali Safari and Marine Park in Gianyar is another top spot for families. Young children will surely enjoy interactive encounters with wildlife via the Safari Tram or the Elephant Back Safari. The Marine Park is also a fun way to spend the afternoon after a long day of walking around under the sun. The Bali Bird Park in Batubulan boasts the same level of educational fun. Located halfway between Ubud and Denpasar, this park is home to more than 1000 birds from 250 species, including the beautiful Cendrawasih.

Shopping in Bali is also a unique experience as you will find various atmospheres, ranging from modern-day shopping malls to road-side markets. Kuta Beachwalk, for example, is one of the newest shopping and dining centers in Bali. The mall, which boasts an open-air design, is home to different local and international brands. Take advantage of duty-free shopping as you drive back to the airport at Mal Bali Galeria, or check out vibrantly printed t-shirts at Joger, a popular retail store in the Kuta-Legian area that has become an icon of Bali.

Want to take home a masterpiece? Sukawati Market in Gianyar has a wide selection of local handicrafts, arts and textiles. The Ubud Art Market, which is located across the Puri Saren Royal Ubud Palace, is always open to welcome you. You can find anything from woven bags to hand-crafted goods. Pasar Badung is where you can browse and bargain for produce from all over the island. If you wander around enough, you’ll find handmade household goods as well as paintings.

You can never be satisfied with just one trip to the island, because it takes more than just one holiday to enjoy all that Bali has to offer. Know what brings you to Bali and what you want to see on this trip. The island is always there to welcome you another time.