If there’s one place that feels like a dream while you’re wide awake, it’s Bali. I remember landing on the island and immediately being hit with that warm, sweet-smelling breeze. It was like stepping into a postcard. Whether you’re here for the beaches, the temples, or just to find peace in the chaos of life, this island has a rhythm that somehow matches every kind of traveler.
In this guide to the Top 5 Must-See Destinations in Bali, Indonesia, I’ll walk you through spots that genuinely moved me. These aren’t just pretty places—they’re full of feeling. Each one has its quirks, charm, and that unmistakable Bali soul. And I’ll be honest: while some moments were magical, others were sweaty, bumpy, and totally unexpected. But that’s what makes Bali unforgettable.
Let’s start with a place that captures both the spiritual and the scenic side of the island:
1. Ubud – Where Nature Meets Soul
Ubud isn’t just a location—it’s a state of mind. Nestled among rice terraces and misty jungles, Ubud is often called the cultural heart of Bali. And once you’re here, it’s easy to see why.
I remember walking through the Tegalalang Rice Terraces early one morning, dew still clinging to the grass, and not hearing a single engine or horn—just birdsong and the occasional rustle of leaves. The terraces stretch out like green stairways to the sky, and they’re even more breathtaking in real life than in photos.
But Ubud isn’t all postcard-perfect. It’s alive. The Ubud Art Market can be chaotic, with everyone haggling and the scent of incense mixed with street food. I got a handwoven basket there that still smells faintly like clove and sandalwood.
If you’re looking for peace, head to Tirta Empul Temple. Locals bathe in the sacred spring here, believing the water purifies the soul. It’s humbling to watch. I joined in—nervous at first—but left feeling surprisingly calm. Just be ready for crowds and dress modestly (a sarong is a must).
Quick Tips for Ubud:
- Go early to Tegalalang to avoid crowds and heat.
- Stay in a guesthouse tucked in the rice fields—you’ll hear frogs at night.
- Rent a scooter only if you’re comfortable with winding roads.
Up next, we’re heading south to a cliffside wonder that feels like the edge of the world.
2. Uluwatu – Clifftop Views and Sacred Drama
If Ubud is Bali’s heart, Uluwatu is its dramatic soul. Picture this: a jagged cliff rising above a turquoise ocean, waves crashing below, and a temple perched like it’s defying gravity. That’s Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu), and standing there during sunset, I swear the sky puts on a show just for you.
But Uluwatu isn’t only about the view—it’s about feeling tiny in the best way. The Kecak Fire Dance here is a must. It’s not just a performance; it’s a powerful experience. Dozens of men chant in rhythm while the sun dips below the horizon and flames light up the dusk. It gave me chills, even through the heat.
The temple grounds are serene but keep your belongings close—the monkeys here are sneaky pros at theft. I watched one snatch sunglasses right off a tourist’s face. No joke.
Beyond the temple, Uluwatu’s beaches are a surfer’s dream. Even if you don’t surf, places like Padang Padang Beach and Bingin Beach offer soft sand, laid-back cafés, and perfect spots to watch the tide roll in.
What I love most about Uluwatu is its raw edge. It’s not polished or touristy in the way some places are. The roads can be rough, the sun unrelenting, and the waves wild—but that’s exactly what makes it feel real.
Quick Tips for Uluwatu:
- Arrive early at the temple for a good seat before the dance show starts.
- Wear shoes with grip—the clifftop paths can be steep and uneven.
- Explore the beaches during low tide—some are hidden gems only accessible then.
Next, we’ll head inland again to a place that blends myth, water, and serenity: Bali’s most photographed temple.
3. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – Tranquility on Water
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is the kind of place that sneaks up on your heart. Located in the cooler, misty highlands of Bedugul, this floating temple sits quietly on Lake Beratan, looking like something straight out of a dream.
When I visited, the air was cool and crisp—such a contrast to the humidity of the coast. The lake was like a mirror, perfectly still, reflecting the temple and the surrounding mountains. I just stood there for a while, soaking in the silence. You don’t get many of those quiet moments when traveling, but here, they come naturally.
Ulun Danu is a water temple, dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers. You can feel the sacredness here, but it’s not forced. There’s a gentle kind of reverence in the air, mixed with the scent of flowers and wet earth.
The temple complex is surrounded by manicured gardens and tall trees. Families picnic, kids run around, and you might see a few traditional ceremonies if you’re lucky. It’s popular, yes—but still peaceful if you go in the early morning.
Things to know:
- It’s about a 2-hour drive from Ubud, so consider hiring a driver for the day.
- Bring a jacket or hoodie—the mountain air gets chilly, especially around sunrise.
- You can rent a paddle boat and float out for a different view of the temple—it’s touristy but kind of charming.
After soaking up all that stillness, it’s time to shift gears. Next, we’re diving into Bali’s wild beauty with a waterfall that feels like a hidden jungle treasure.
4. Sekumpul Waterfall – Bali’s Best-Kept Natural Secret
If you only visit one waterfall in Bali, let it be Sekumpul. It’s not the easiest to reach, but maybe that’s what makes it feel so special. Tucked deep in the jungle of northern Bali, Sekumpul isn’t just one fall—it’s a cluster of them, cascading down a lush, green cliff like ribbons of silver.
The journey there is part of the adventure. I had to hike down steep steps, cross a narrow bamboo bridge, and wade through a stream to get close. Honestly, I was sweating buckets by the time I got there—but the sight that greeted me? Completely worth every slippery step.
The mist from the falls cools you instantly, and the roar of the water drowns out everything else—your thoughts, your stress, even your sense of time. I just stood there barefoot in the stream, staring up, feeling small in the best possible way.
Sekumpul is still relatively untouched by mass tourism. You won’t find rows of shops or smoothie bars here. Just nature doing its thing. And that’s exactly what makes it magical.
Sekumpul Waterfall Tips:
- Wear good shoes—the path gets muddy and steep.
- Bring cash for the local guides (they’re required and totally worth it).
- Pack a dry bag and change of clothes—you will get wet.
Next, we wrap up with a destination that’s pure paradise—white sand, clear water, and a slower way of life that will make you want to stay forever.
5. Nusa Penida – Bali’s Wild Island Escape
Just a short boat ride from mainland Bali, Nusa Penida feels like another world. Rugged, raw, and ridiculously beautiful, this island is where Bali shows off its wild side. If you’ve seen that iconic photo of a T-Rex-shaped cliff diving into turquoise water—that’s Kelingking Beach, and yes, it’s just as jaw-dropping in real life.
I remember standing at the cliff’s edge, heart racing, the wind whipping my hair around, and thinking: This can’t be real. The hike down to the beach is steep and intense—think loose rocks, vertical drops, and a “trail” that’s more of a scramble. But if you make it, the beach below is nearly empty, with waves crashing into the softest white sand.
There’s more to Nusa Penida than just Kelingking. Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool carved into the rocks, and Broken Beach offers a view through a stone archway that looks unreal. I swam with manta rays at Manta Point—an experience that left me speechless. Seeing those gentle giants glide beneath you in the deep blue? Totally surreal.
That said, Nusa Penida isn’t for the faint of heart. The roads are rough, distances are long, and the sun doesn’t mess around. But that’s also what makes it feel like a true escape from the typical Bali trail.
Tips for Nusa Penida:
- Take a fast boat from Sanur in the morning to make the most of your day.
- Rent a car with a driver unless you’re confident riding a scooter on rocky terrain.
- Stay overnight if you can—the sunsets here are next level.
Final Thoughts
Bali isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. It’s the sound of gamelan music drifting through the trees, the warmth of locals who smile from the heart, and the way rice fields glow gold in the late afternoon light.
These Top 5 Must-See Destinations in Bali, Indonesia only scratch the surface, but they each offer something unforgettable. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, meditating in temples, or just sipping coconut water with sand between your toes, Bali has a way of making you feel more alive.
And once you go, a part of you will always want to return.
