Bali and children – it's a combination that surprises many Norwegian parents. The island, primarily associated with romantic couple getaways, turns out to be one of the world's best destinations for families with children. We know this because we have seen it with our own eyes, time and time again.
Why Bali is perfect for families with children
There's one thing that strikes all Norwegian parents when they arrive in Bali with children: the locals love children. Not in a superficial, tourist-friendly way—but genuinely and wholeheartedly. It is deeply rooted in Balinese culture that children are a gift and that the entire community is responsible for caring for them.
We have seen it again and again. You sit down at a restaurant with a restless child on your lap, and before you can say anything, one of the staff members has picked up your child and is walking around with them while you eat in peace. No one asks, no one expects anything in return. It's the kind of experience you won't find many places in the world.
In addition: warm ocean all year round, food children like (rice, noodles, chicken, and tropical fruits everywhere), activities for all age groups, pools at most hotels—and prices that make luxury accessible for Norwegian families.
We have put together a complete package tailored for Norwegian families with children—safe, easy, and with local knowledge that will make your holiday unforgettable.
See Family Holiday in Bali →
Practical information before departure
Best age. Most Norwegian parents say that 3–12 years is the sweet spot. Old enough to remember and appreciate the experiences, young enough to still find everything magical. Infants under 1 year old travel surprisingly well to Bali, but require more planning around food, sleep, and sun.
Vaccinations and health. Talk to your doctor 6–8 weeks before departure. Common recommendations for Bali include hepatitis A and typhoid. Malaria is not prevalent in Bali, but dengue fever exists—use mosquito repellent with DEET on children, especially during dusk.
Food and stomach. Do not drink tap water—buy bottled water or use a purification filter. Most hotels and restaurants catering to tourists have good food quality. Start cautiously for the first few days and let the children gradually get used to new food. Rice, banana pancakes, and freshly squeezed fruit juice are safe favorites.
Sun and heat. Bali is close to the equator and the sun is strong. SPF 50+ sunscreen is a must for Norwegian children. A hat and UV suit in the water are highly recommended. Plan strenuous activities for the morning (7–11 AM) and evening (4–6 PM)—the midday sun is intensely hot.
Best areas for families
Ubud is fantastic for curious school-aged children. The Monkey Forest with hundreds of monkeys is a guaranteed favorite—just watch out that the monkeys don't steal your sunglasses. Rice fields, temple walks, and local markets give children a unique insight into a completely different culture.
Nusa Dua and Jimbaran are ideal for families with young children. Calmer waves, beautiful sandy beaches, and hotels with large family pools. Jimbaran is particularly family-friendly with its calm bay and shallow waters.
Lovina is Bali's best-kept secret—and one of the most magical destinations for families with children. The Lovina tour with a sunrise dolphin safari is an experience children will never forget.
The best activities for children
Bike tour in Ubud — from 8 years old. The bike tour through the Ubud valley is a favorite for school children. Cycle through rice fields, past villages, and along the river—with our local guide Made showing the way and telling stories along the way. Easy pace, little traffic, and lots to see. Upon arrival, Made invites the whole family into his home for homemade food.
ATV in the jungle — from 10 years old. For slightly older children who want speed and excitement, the ATV tour through Bali's jungle is a dream. Drive through dense forest, across rivers, and past rice terraces. Parents can ride behind with the youngest. Exciting, safe, and lots of fun.
Rafting — from 10 years old. River rafting on the Ayung River in Ubud is perfect for active families. Gentle currents alternate with more exciting sections—adapted for children from about 10 years and up. Experienced guides, safe equipment, and concludes with lunch by the river.
Dolphin safari in Lovina — all ages. Start at 6:00 AM and head out onto Lovina's calm sea to see dolphins in the wild. Local fishing boats take you into the bay where dolphin pods swim and jump around the boat. For children, this is a magical experience. The Lovina tour includes overnight stay and dolphin safari the next morning.
Monkey Forest in Ubud — all ages. Sangeh Monkey Forest is a sacred forest reserve with hundreds of macaques. Children love it—but keep a tight grip on bags, sunglasses, and snacks. A guide who knows the monkeys' behavior makes the experience safer and more fun.
Do your children want to see dolphins at sunrise? The Lovina tour with dolphin safari is one of Bali's most magical family experiences—accommodation, transportation, and safari included.
See Lovina Multi-Day Tour →
Hotels for families
When traveling with children, choosing a hotel is extra important. Look for a shallow pool or children's pool, family rooms or a two-bedroom villa, breakfast included, and a child-friendly menu. A private villa with its own pool is often the best solution for many Norwegian families with children. The children can swim safely, the parents can relax, and you don't have to adhere to hotel rules. Prices are surprisingly reasonable—often cheaper than a family room in a medium-priced Norwegian hotel.
Practical daily plan
| Time | Activity | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00–09:00 | Breakfast and morning activity | Cool and few people |
| 09:00–12:00 | Excursion or trip | Best time – not too hot |
| 12:00–16:00 | Lunch and pool/rest | Avoid midday sun |
| 16:00–18:30 | Beach, market or temple | Cooler, golden hour |
| 18:30–20:00 | Dinner and bedtime | Early dinner suits children |
Our best tips
Accept help from locals – when someone wants to carry or look after your child at a restaurant, it's genuine and heartfelt. Book a private driver; with children, it's indispensable – no stress, the children sleep in the back seat, and you set the pace yourselves. Bring the children's favorite snacks from Norway – familiar foods are a lifesaver on difficult days. Don't overplan: one excursion and pool/beach is enough for a day with small children. Bali is 6 hours ahead of Norway during summer time – most children adapt surprisingly quickly. Keep a rain poncho in your bag: a rain shower comes quickly and is over just as quickly.
We are Norwegian experts who help families with children plan safe and unforgettable holidays – tailored for your specific family.
See Family Holiday in Bali →