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Activities in Bali: Top 10 Things to Do

Vegard ThoUpdated October 6, 2026
Activities in Bali: Top 10 Things to Do

Dreaming of more than just sun and sand in Bali? Here are the top 10 activities and experiences you don't want to miss – waterfalls, surfing, culture, diving, cooking classes and much more. Perfect for couples, friends and families who want to experience Bali for real.

Dreaming of more than sun and sand? Bali is a paradise if you want experiences, adventure and real culture. This is our guide to the most popular activities for travellers who want to see more, from surfing and waterfalls to cooking classes, yoga and snorkelling.

1. Surfing in Canggu and Uluwatu

Canggu and Uluwatu are two of the world’s best surf spots, with waves for every level, surf schools with experienced instructors and a relaxed atmosphere with cafés and beach bars close by. Perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. See surf lessons →

Surfing in Canggu or Uluwatu in Bali – waves and surf schools for all levels

2. Yoga and wellness in Ubud

Ubud is Bali’s spiritual centre, known for yoga, meditation, spas and retreats. Join a morning session in the jungle, combine yoga with massage and spa treatments, and let everyday life slip away. Perfect for solo travellers and couples looking for calm and wellbeing.

Yoga and meditation in Ubud, Bali – a spiritual retreat in the jungle

3. Snorkelling and diving at Nusa Penida and Menjangan

See colourful coral, turtles and manta rays in crystal-clear water. Nusa Penida and Manta Point are for the adventurous, while Menjangan Island is calmer and child-friendly. See snorkelling at Nusa Lembongan →

Snorkelling at Nusa Penida, Bali – colourful coral and manta rays in clear water

4. Day trip to Ubud: coffee, rice terraces and village life

Ubud offers some of the most authentic experiences in Bali. Visit a coffee plantation and taste the famous Luwak coffee, walk through the Tegallalang rice terraces and explore the Monkey Forest and local temples. See the Ubud day trip →

Day trip to Ubud, Bali – Tegallalang rice terraces, coffee plantations and the Monkey Forest

5. Sunrise trek on Mount Batur

Start the hike at 3 am and reach the summit in time for sunrise, with magical views over the lake and the volcanic landscape. It pairs well with a dip in the hot springs and breakfast at the top. An absolute favourite with active travellers and couples. See the Mt. Batur sunrise trek →

Hiking to the top of Mount Batur in Bali – guided sunrise trek

6. Cooking class with local chefs

Learn to cook real Balinese food with local ingredients. Nasi goreng, sate lilit and bumbu kacang are among the dishes you take home with you. A perfect activity if you love culture and food, and a unique way to get to know Bali. See the cooking class →

Cooking class in Bali – Balinese food made with local ingredients and a local chef

7. Rafting on the Ayung River

An adventure through nature with waterfalls, jungle and low risk, perfect for groups of friends, couples and families. The Ayung River is Bali’s most popular rafting river and offers a great mix of excitement and natural beauty. See rafting →

Rafting on the Ayung River in Bali – through jungle and past waterfalls

8. Island hopping to Nusa Penida, Lembongan and the Gilis

Great day trips with snorkelling, boat life, beaches and small islands with a calmer atmosphere. Nusa Penida offers dramatic nature and clear water, Nusa Lembongan relaxation and snorkelling, and the Gili Islands white sandy beaches and no cars. See the Nusa Penida day trip →

Island hopping to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan from Bali – crystal-clear water and white beaches

9. Aling-Aling waterfall

A natural water park in North Bali where you can slide down a waterfall and jump from 5, 10 and 15 metres. Aling-Aling is one of Bali’s most spectacular natural sights and pairs well with a trip to Lovina. See the Lovina tour →

Aling-Aling waterfall in North Bali – a natural water park with slides and jumps

10. Beach clubs at sunset

Legian, Seminyak and Uluwatu have some of the world’s best beach clubs. Finns Beach Club, Potato Head and Single Fin are among the favourites, with magical sunsets over the Indian Ocean and a cocktail in hand. A perfect end to a day in Bali.

Beach club at sunset in Bali – view over the Indian Ocean from Uluwatu or Seminyak

At ReadySetIsland we tailor trips around what you want, whether that’s surfing, yoga, culture, snorkelling or adventure.
Get a tailor-made quote → See all day trips →
We put together tailor-made activity packages: surfing, rafting, ATV, yoga or whatever you have in mind. Personal service and local experts.
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