Our Guide to a Picture Perfect Week in Bali
If you’re looking for the perfect exotic beach vacation, you’ve come to the right place. Bali, Indonesia has something for everyone. From whitesand beaches to jungle treks and acai bowls to authentic balinese cuisine — every type of traveler will fit in on this paradise island.
Here’s our guide to the perfect week in Bali, Indonesia!
Day 1 – 3: Canggu
Canggu is considered a hub for “digital nomads” and westerners looking for a more laid back lifestyle. This beach town is filled with trendy beach clubs and delicious cafes, incredible beaches to enjoy, and temples to explore.
Spend your first three days in Canggu easing your way into Bali — your week will be filled with adventure, so be sure to take it easy, recover from jetlag, and enjoy the slow beach culture.
WHERE TO STAY
The best way to find stellar accommodation in Canggu is through Airbnb, which is filled with incredible villas for short term rent — think high ceilings, private pools, and island vibes. You won’t struggle to find some amazing spots to stay!
Photo by Taylor Simpson on Unsplash
WHERE TO EAT
Canggu has so many fun cafes to explore. While you can easily just walk the streets and find some gems, we definitely recommend visiting these cafes:
WHAT TO DO
Like we said — take it easy these first few days! And thankfully, Canggu is the perfect place to do just that. Here are 5 activities we suggest hitting up during your first few days in Bali!
- Get a traditional Balinese massage
- Take a surfing lesson
- Attend a yoga class
- Eat like a local at a Warung (roadside restaurant)
- Visit Tanah Lot Temple — Canguu’s most popular temple
- Watch the sunset at Pantai Batu Mejan (Echo Beach)
- Relax at Finn’s Beach Club
- Party at Old Man’s Canggu
Photo by Cassie Gallegos on Unsplash
Day 4 + 5: Ubud
After a few days in Canggu, you’ll want to head to Ubud — Bali’s hub for all things jungle adventures, yoga, and spirituality. Ubud is the perfect combination of relaxation and excitement. While people often use it as a base for day trips into the jungle, some like to stay put and spend time meditating and soaking up Ubud’s natural environment.
Aside from the beach, most things that you can find in Canggu will also be in Ubud — great cafes, yoga retreats, and temples galore. On top of all of these things, you’ll find endless rice fields, jungle trekking, and so many waterfalls and natural wonders to explore.
WHERE TO STAY
Similar to Canggu, you can find some great options on Airbnb. We also recommend checking out some of these amazing hotels!
Again, there are so many great options in Ubud, you almost can’t go wrong!
Photo by Alex Block on Unsplash
WHERE TO EAT
Indonesia is known for amazing coffee and really good food, and Ubud is no exception. You’ll find some of the cutest cafes you’ve ever seen just hidden in the jungle or down unassuming alleyways. Some of our favorites include:
WHAT TO DO
Ubud is perfect for adventurous souls and lovers of nature! Here are some things to be sure to explore while you’re in the area:
- Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
- Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
- Walk the Campuhan Ridge
- Explore one of the many Ubud markets
- Visit the Tegenungan Waterfall
- Learn to book Balinese food in a cooking class
- See the Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Day 5 + 6: Nusa Penida
A stay on Nusa Penida is the best way to end your picture perfect week in Bali, Indonesia! Nusa Penida is the largest of the three islands in the southeast of Bali. The island is known for hidden beaches, stunning views, and beautiful underwater wildlife. Like most places in Bali, you’ll also find great cafes, waterfalls, temples and more!
Photo by Nate Johnston on Unsplash
WHERE TO STAY
Since it’s a relatively small island, you won’t have a hard time finding a sweet spot to stay in Nusa Penida! The island is filled with everything from luxury resorts to small beachside bungalows. Here are some top picks:
WHERE TO EAT
Nusa Penida is filled with more incredible cafes, this time with epic island views. Be sure to head to the following cafes and bars!
WHAT TO DO
- Snorkel with manta rays
- Take a day cruise to see the surrounding islands
- Visit Peguyangan Waterfall
- Catch the best views at Thousand Islands Viewpoint
- Relax at the many hidden beaches
After your short and sweet stay on Nusa Penida, you’ll need to head back to the mainland to catch your onward flight. While you’ll likely want to stay in Bali forever, you’ll leave with fond memories of your picture perfect stay in the islands.
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