Bali (Benoa)
Country: Indonesia · Region: Southeast Asia · Currency: Indonesian Rupiah
Bali is Indonesia's most visited island destination, known as the "Island of the Gods" with mountainous terrain, sandy beaches, lush rice terraces, and a unique Hindu culture. It offers world-class diving and surfing, diverse cultural attractions, and accommodations ranging from budget to ultra-luxury options.
Top sights
Ubud (art and dance center with museums and monkey forest), Uluwatu Temple (cliff-hanging temple), Tanah Lot Temple, Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, Mount Batur (active volcano), Nusa Lembongan (surfing and diving)
Things to do
- Ubud
- The centre of art and dance in the foothills with several museums, the monkey forest and arts and crafts shops.
- Uluwatu Temple
- A can't-miss cliff-hanging temple on the Bukit Peninsula featuring daily Kecak dance performances.
- Tanah Lot Temple
- A 16th century temple set on a rocky outcrop, famous for its sunset views.
- Mount Batur
- An active volcano in Kintamani offering stunning mountain scenery and cooler temperatures.
Beaches
- Nusa Dua
- An enclave of high-end resorts featuring a long, golden sand beach.
- Lovina
- Known for beautiful black volcanic sand beaches and coral reefs.
Where to eat
- Jimbaran seafood restaurants
- Seaside restaurants in Jimbaran, close to the airport, serving fresh seafood with beach views.
Bars and nightlife
- Seminyak
- Features trendy designer bars and dance clubs in an upscale beachside resort area.
Getting around
Taxis, car rentals, and motorbikes are available from the cruise port, though traffic is common especially in Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak areas; walking can sometimes be faster than driving for short distances.
What to eat
Try fresh seafood restaurants in Jimbaran, and sample local Balinese cuisine at various restaurants throughout the island; canang sari offerings reflect the island's spiritual food traditions.
Tips
Allow extra time to reach your ship due to traffic congestion, especially when leaving Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak areas; watch for one-way streets that may require longer routes.
Best for
Beaches, surfing, diving, Hindu culture