Bali Attractions | 5 Things to Do Outdoors While Backpacking in Indonesia

The key to navigating one of the world’s most popular tropical paradises is absorbing it one region at a time. With six different areas to explore, Bali offers diverse itinerary opportunities for every kind of traveler. Bali attractions include activities like sunbathing and diving in the southern Kuta region and nature trekking and volcano hiking in popular areas like Ubud, Tegalalang and Tabanan. No matter which places guests decide to visit in Bali two things will be evident: Bali is brimming with beauty from coast to coast, and the Balinese are some of the most hospitable and charming people in the world!

AGODA EXTRA: Religion plays an integral role in the daily lives of the Balinese. Tens of thousands of ancient shrines, or puras, are still used by locals today to honor gods of both land and sea. Many “sea temples” date back to the 16th century, and together they form a chain around the coast of Bali. The complex system of temples is how Bali became known as the Island of the Gods.

1. Swim the eco-friendly way at WATERBOM BALI INDONESIA, Kuta

Have a blast while promoting sustainability at one of Bali’s most popular and environmentally responsible attractions. Waterbom Bali Indonesia Indonesia features more than a dozen waterslides and park adventures. Turn little ones loose in Funtastic, a playpark paradise of water cannons, slides and activities, and send the teens on a 26-meter vertical drop from Smashdown 2.0. Feel good about splashing the whole day away at Waterbom Bali Indonesia because the water is recycled, and the park preserves half of its property as green space.

Check In to Amnaya Resort Kuta, Step Out to Waterbom Bali Indonesia

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2. Photograph scarecrows in a UNESCO World Heritage Site at JATILUWIH RICE TERRACES, Central Bali

Jatiluwih Rice Terrace in Tabanan is indeed one of the most photographed Bali attractions, and while guests see the area as a tourist attraction, natives of Central Bali regard the ancient agricultural practices as an everyday way of life. Get an up-close and personal view of villagers in their day-to-day tasks of cultivating seven subak (rice terrace ranges), maintained in the gorgeous foothills of Mount Batukaru. The area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 to preserve the culture of the region and to promote better relationships between agriculture and tourism. Visitors are invited to view the spellbinding paddies and take selfies with the famous lelakut (scarecrows), which are always on guard to keep pesky, rice-munching birds at bay!

Check In to Ti Amo Bali Resort, Step Out to Tabanan

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3. Discover some of the best surf and turf at KUTA BEACH, South Bali

Known as Bali’s most famous beach destination, this formerly-quiet fishing village has revved up its game in the past few years, making Kuta Beach one of the best Bali attractions – and locations in the world for surfing, scuba diving and snorkeling! Throw in a bustling beach vibe, impeccable weather and some of the best street food on earth, and discover why thousands of travelers flock to Kuta!

Check In to The Kuta Beach Heritage Hotel, Step Out to Kuta Beach

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4. Go bananas in an ancient temple and forest conservation center at UBUD MONKEY FOREST, Ubud

More than 600 crab-eating macaques (Old World monkeys) are the main attraction at Ubud Monkey Forest, but there is a lot more to be discovered at this working nature reserve and religious center. Also on the grounds are three 14th-century Hindu temples, a natural laboratory, a forest conservation area, a public hall and gallery, a performance stage, eating facilities and even a police station and composting facility. Learn the role that monkeys play in Balinese spirituality while interacting with them in their natural habitat. Watch trainers feed the monkeys papaya, or buy some bananas, and feed them yourself. (It’s the best way to distract them from trying to steal your sunglasses!)

Check In to Motama Villa, Step Out to Ubud Monkey Forest

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5. Discover gorgeous ocean life on MENJANGAN ISLAND, West Bali

Menjangan Island, also called Deer Island, is part of West Bali National Park (Taman Nasional Bali Barat). This uninhabited paradise offers some of the best views of marine life in the world, making it a unique secret getaway and one of the best Bali attractions. In some locations, divers can expect visibility of up to 50 meters, prime for viewing intricate details of coral gardens, vertical reef walls, seahorses, schools of snappers and possibly even reef sharks. Above water, the island doubles as a birdwatchers’ haven and an excellent site to spot Menjangan, the native deer for which the island is named.