Bali: What to do and what to avoid
Waterfalls: escape the crowdsall
Don’t: Visit Tegenungan or Leke Leke Waterfall if you’re looking for a peaceful nature experience. These waterfalls are stunning but often packed with tourists, making it hard to enjoy the serene beauty.
Do: Head to Manuaba Waterfall instead. Tucked away in a more secluded area, Manuaba offers a quieter, more immersive experience with nature. Here, you can hear the water rushing, feel the fresh mist on your skin, and even take a refreshing dip without fighting for space.
Temple & purification
Don’t: Go to Tirta Empul for purification rituals. While it is one of the most famous water temples in Bali, it has also become one of the most touristy. The lines can be long, and the spiritual significance can feel diminished when surrounded by large crowds snapping photos.
Do: Visit Pura Mengening instead. This temple offers a similar purification experience but with fewer tourists, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual tradition. The setting is more peaceful, the water is just as sacred, and the experience feels more personal and meaningful.
Rice Terraces: seek authentic landscapes
Don’t: Visit Tegallalang Rice Terraces if you’re looking for a genuine experience. While picturesque, it’s heavily commercialized with swings, cafes, and crowds that take away from its natural beauty. The terraces are stunning, but the experience can feel staged rather than authentic.
Do: Explore Jatiluwih Rice Terraces instead. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a more authentic look at Bali’s rice farming culture. The vast expanse of terraces allows for peaceful walks, and you’ll likely encounter local farmers going about their daily routines. The landscape is just as breathtaking, but without the commercialization.
Canggu accommodation
Don’t: Stay in the heart of Canggu if you want peace and quiet. The area is known for its heavy traffic, loud nightlife, and crowded streets, which can make it difficult to relax.
Do: Choose a villa in Umalas or Pererenan instead. These areas are just minutes from Canggu but offer a calmer environment with less congestion. You’ll still have easy access to great cafes, restaurants, and beaches, but without the constant noise and chaos.
Scooter safety
Don’t: Ride a scooter without a helmet, no matter how hot it is. Many travelers think it looks cool, but Bali’s traffic can be chaotic, and accidents are common. Some assume that riding without a helmet for short distances is safe, but unexpected hazards—like potholes, reckless drivers, and sudden stops—can lead to serious injuries.
Do: Always wear a helmet, whether you’re renting a scooter or taking a ride on Grab/Gojek. Safety should always come first, as the danger isn’t just your driving but also others on the road. A helmet could be the difference between a minor fall and a major accident.
Coffee: quality beans
Don’t: Kopi Luwak may be Bali’s most famous coffee, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best. The beans are often produced under questionable conditions, prioritizing novelty over quality.
Do: Opt for Kintamani coffee beans instead. Grown in the highlands of Bali, these beans are known for their rich, citrusy flavors and are produced sustainably. You can find them at specialty cafes that support ethical sourcing and local farmers, ensuring a better cup of coffee.
Beaches: find hidden gems
Don’t: Visit Padang Padang Beach if you dislike crowds. While beautiful, it’s small and often packed with tourists. Limited space means you might struggle to find a spot to sit, and the experience can feel more hectic than relaxing.
Do: Head to Nyang Nyang Beach instead. With its vast shoreline and crystal-clear waters, it offers a much more relaxing beach day. The cliffs surrounding the beach add to its beauty, and you’ll have more room to enjoy the sun and sea without being elbow-to-elbow with other visitors.
Island getaways
Don’t: Go to Gili Trawangan if you’re looking for tranquility. It’s known for its party scene, bustling nightlife, and can get quite hectic, especially during high season.
Do: Visit usa Lembongan instead. This island offers stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and a more laid-back vibe, perfect for nature lovers. Whether you’re looking to snorkel, explore mangroves, or simply relax by the water, Nusa Lembongan provides a peaceful retreat from the chaos of busier islands.
Fast Food: opt for better
Don’t: Eat at McDonald’s or Burger King when craving a burger. These chains are the same everywhere and don’t offer anything unique.
Do: Try BB52 or Mr. Smash Burger instead. These spots serve delicious, high-quality burgers that far surpass fast food chains. Not only will you enjoy a better meal, but you’ll also be supporting independent businesses and experiencing Bali’s growing food scene.
Bali offers so much beauty and adventure, but knowing what to do and what to avoid can make a huge difference in your experience. Disclaimer: circumstances and preferences may vary, all the advises are based on our own experience! Enjoy everything Bali has to offer.
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