I would live there if I could. I have been way too many times. I plan to go back many times more. A Balinese local asked me why do you keep going back to Bali? Because Bali my second home! The setting is gorgeous, the people are welcoming and kind, the food and nightlife is fantastic and the price is right.
Geography
South Bali and Kuta are the main tourist areas of Bali. Kuta is a suburb and includes Kuta (town), Legian and Seminyak. The capital of Bali is Denpasar (not a tourist area).
image credit Teoh Yi Chie
The main touristy spots are on the south west coast. First hint- Jalan means street. Gang means alleyway/lane. Seminyak blends into Legian as you travel south, then into Kuta below that. Above Seminyak is Canggu along the coast, and inland from Seminyak is Kerobokan. Ubud is around 1-2 hours north of Seminyak (depending on traffic) whilst Nusa Dua is on the east coast of Bali. Jimbaran is further south below Kuta, and even further south is Uluwatu.
Getting there
Denpasar is the main international airport. The international terminal is new and easy to navigate.
Most hotels or villas will arrange a transfer for you from the airport included in your rate. When you come out of customs there will be hundreds of people holding signs with names on them so keep your eyes peeled! If a transfer not included, just get a taxi to your accommodation. Pick a bluebird taxi (offical taxi) and they will use the meter (see tips at the end for more details). Also be careful as there are people in official looking uniforms who will try to grab and carry your bags then charge you afterwards. Just collect your bag and politely decline if they offer to carry your bag.
Where to stay in Bali
This all depends on what you like to do the experiences you want to have. I must admit that we usually come to Bali with a huge list of things to do and end up doing only half of them because it is so lovely just to wander the streets or relax at the beach. Another option I would recommend is staying a few days in one place (like Ubud or Canggu) and the rest somewhere else (like Seminyak or Legian). So in terms of where to stay, Bali is huge and there are many more places to explore but these are the main tourist haunts.
- Legian: for beach bums, amateur to moderate surfers, market shopping
- Kuta: clubbing, activities to keep kids entertained
- Seminyak: high end boutique shopping, world class dining and night scene
- Nusa Dua: high end luxury resorts, honeymoon spot, white sandy beach
- Uluwatu: surfing, high end luxury resorts, wedding venues
- Canggu: surfing, the 'new seminyak' with less tourists but much more low key
- Ubud: arts & cultural centre, markets, yoga, spas & health food
- Sanur: nice resorts, beach is blacksand, a little further away from the action
Many are also travelling to the Gili Islands or Nusa Lembongan to escape the daily grind in Bali. Again which island you choose depends largely on personal interests. The Gili Islands are three islands off Lombok each with a different focus. Nusa Lembongan is closer to the Bali mainland.
- Gili Trawangan (Gili T)- largest island with biggest party scene & the most choice for accommodation, restaurants, bars etc.
- Gilli Air - popular with honeymooners and couples, has snorkelling and scuba diving and you can see turtles off the coral reef.
- Gilli Meno- smallest and quiestest of the Gili islands, popular with honeymooners and couples.
- Nusa Lembongan - a laid back island with no fuss relaxation, diving, snorkelling and surfing- I absolutely loved it. See my post about Nusa Lembongan for more details.
main street in Seminyak- Jalan Laksmana aka 'eat street'
beach promenade in Legian
My take on the touristy areas in Bali
Seminyak
The easiest area to start in is Jalan Kaya Ayu (confusingly also known as Jalan Oberoi or Jalan Laksmana or affectionately as 'eat street'). There are many boutiques, restaurants and hotels on this strip. It finishes with seminyak square (a good landmark to get your bearings) at the west end.
Running north to south closest to the beach is Jalan Petitenget (means coffin in Indonesian). On the eastern side of Seminyak is Jalan Raya Seminyak (becomes Jalan Legian once you hit Legian) which goes south towards Kuta. Jalan Sunset road also joins to the east end of Oberoi/eat street and runs diagonally south east towards Kuta.
Jalan Raya Seminyak (becomes Jalan Legian becomes Jalan Kuta) is good for random shopping. There are lots of unique homewares along this strip and it's easy to get a taxi home. To walk all the way from Seminyak to Kuta or vice versa along this road is around 4.5kms (that's a long walk when you are stopping to shop or during the heat of the day!). The section leading into Luta is only one way so don't be surprised if the taxis turn inland to get back onto main roads. The bintang supermarket is about 1.5kms down from the Seminyak end- this strip is a good one to walk, a few boutiques along this way too.
Legian
In legian, wander Garlic lane, Jalan Padma, Jalan Melasti, Jalan double six, and be sure to wander down random side streets and alleys. Walk/ ride along Jalan Mertanadi in Kerokoban for unique homewares.
Wherever you stop there are always sights to take in, locals happy for a chat (or a sale usually), intriguing smells and beauty in simplicity and local culture. I loved exploring in Seminyak and finding all different street art along the way.
In Kuta, the main landmarks are Kuta square (where the large Matahari department store is) and Jalan Legian where there is the Bali Bombing Memorial, many shops etc. There is a also a beach promenade now home to a large shopping centre and developments.
Kuta
Bintang singlets, bubba gump and souvenir shops galore- Kuta is overun with touristy stuff. I have stayed in Kuta a couple of times when I first visited Bali and although it is not in line with what I currently look for in a holiday it is still worth a visit to see what the fuss is all about.
The things that are in Kuta that I have loved over the years
- the beach is wide and gorgeous - the sand quality is different to australia but it is a great beach. Awesome surf with locals showing off their skills, if you're lucky you might catch a religious ceremony on the beach
- Ground Zero has the Bali Bombing memorial which is a poignant reminder to us all.
- massive Matahari supermarket and department store for practical needs on holiday
- See section towards the end for a couple of food options.
- Waterbom park. Just do it especially if you have kids. The rides are amazing and it is very well priced compared to Aussie theme parks.
- Stroll through Poppies lane I and II - it is Bali shopping at the extreme!
- Accommodation is cheap and plentiful in Kuta.
Kuta square
Canguu
Canguu is the latest area that the cool kids are flocking to in Bali. It is north of Seminyak and traditional attracted the surging crowd. In the last few years it has been developed but most of the the low key charm has remained. I spoke to one of the local drivers in Canguu last visit and he explained that the community came together to take measures to avoid over development (no taxi pick ups causing traffic issues, no highrise buildings etc.)
In Canguu I love:
- Watching talented people surf at Batu Bolong beach
- A long walk along the beach - last time we walked from Seminyak to Canguu in the early morning - it is a long way but a really nice walk.
- Trendy cafe's and restaurants that are not fancy: Try Crate Cafe (best breakfast in Bali) and Betlenut for delicious and cheap food
- A drink at Old Man's, it's the best for a laid back atmosphere and the Lucas Grogan murals are my favourite
- The Lawn Canguu is the The newest beach club haunt to be seen at
Hotel vs. Villa ?
Hotel or villa is a completely personal preference. Hotels obviously offer many services that a villa may not- activities, restaurants, a concierge and will often include a buffet breakfast. Villas can offer a more private and secluded vacation and are often much better value in terms of price. I love a mix of both so try to stay in two spots each trip to mix it up.
In a hotel you have the added bonus of usually a free buffet breakfast and good people watching. On the other hand getting a place with a private pool for skinny dipping and lounging is the ultimate luxury.
When booking villas be careful of scams- there are lots of reported cases of deposits being taken and never refunded. Check reviews on tripadvisor and research your specific Villa. At one villa I had to pay a 50% deposit to secure the booking and pay the other 50% on arrival which is fairly standard. This is a decent amount of money to pay to someone you have not met! My friend had stayed at the villa previously otherwise I was a bit apprehensive to part with the 50% deposit. Usually paying via paypal or booking via airbnb is a safer way to proceed however additional fees added in Indonesia for paypal payments means most owners will not accept them.
Places I have stayed in Bali
To give you an idea of what to expect, I have stayed in these places in Bali.
Villa Dayak Legian
- This private villa in Legian (not far from Seminyak) was well located close to the bintang supermarket, walkable to good cafes and legian beach. We walked or took a taxi into Seminyak which was 5-15 mins drive away depending on traffic. The villa itself was absolute luxury- I can highly recommend. There are two x two bedroom villas available. The staff on site were extremely helpful.
The Elysian Villas Seminyak
- I stayed here in 2014 in a private villa which is set in hotel like environment with a communal pool/restaurant separate to the villas. It was very well located in a quieter part of seminyak, not far from the beach. I was lucky enough to get this place on special and would stay here every time if I won the lotto!
The Padma Legian
- A great family hotel in an excellent location in Legian.
Rama Beach Hotel (Tuban)
- Just outside Kuta, I stayed here on my first trip to Bali. Excellent facilities, it is a bit of a walk out of Kuta but great if you are wanting a holiday lounging about.
Jayarkarta Kuta
- I stayed here a few years ago, it is a good basic-mod range hotel in a good location if you are looking to stay in Kuta.
Peppers Seminyak
- I stayed with my family in the penthouse in Peppers Seminyak via airbnb (private rental). The villa was beautiful but a little run down. The resort had good facilities.
Which area to stay in Seminyak
You either want to be staying along the beach (between W hotel and double six) or along Jalan Oberoi to be in the best location. If you stay somewhere further away it is worth checking if they provide a free shuttle into Seminyak (many do).There are lots of well-priced Villas in Seminyak (which become cheaper the further you are away from the main drag). If you have a group of 6 or so you can get some private villas that are absolutely stunning. In terms of hotels, there are also many good options. Again it depends if you prefer beach to pool, buffet breakfast to a la carte and how far you are willing to be from the centre of Seminyak. Hotels can be very pricey in this area so keep an eye out on expedia, agoda etc. There are often good specials where you can get 50-60% off if you book in advance. The best way to do this is set up a price alert using a website/app like kayak which will email you when the hotel/flight goes on special.
In Legian stay near the beach if you can. You probably want to be west of Jalan Raya Seminyak and north of Jalan Padma.
Other tips for your stay
ATMs
ATMS are everywhere and for those with the Commonwealth bank there are many of their ATMs which only charge the regular australian fee and no conversion fee. Maximum withdrawal is usually 2,5 million IDR (about $250 AUD) and you usually need to select other options on the ATM to get this much out.
Tipping
Tipping at restaurants is generally about 10% and do note that a 10% government tax is added to each bill.
It is not mandatory but it is good manners to tip the housekeepers also ($1-2 per day is about average)
Taxis
Taxis are really affordable and a trip from Kuta to Seminyak or vice versa should cost no more than $5-6 AUD. Prices depend on the time of day, the driver and your negotiation skills!
Bluebird taxis are the most reliable and will always put on the meter (usually works out the cheapest) and for this reason are always full. The other taxi companies are less reliable so make sure you agree on the price before you get in or make sure they agree to use the meter.
Transport
You can also hire a driver (the guys asking “transport? Transport?” on street corners which can be cheaper for a longer trip. Many of the streets are one way in the main areas of Kuta/Legian/Seminyak so don’t be too concerned if drivers use the backstreets in these areas.
Traffic is really bad down Jalan Oberoi/ Jalan Legian and along the Kuta beach front for the majority of the day so often it can be quicker to walk (bear in mind it’s about 4.5km from Seminyak to Kuta square),
We use Muliharta Peteris (Peteris) from Mini Bali Tour. Contact him via facebook for a quick response.
Medical assistance
BIMC
The BIMC has a really good reputation - it is the international hospital in Bali. Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai No.100X, Kuta,
There are lots of guardian branded pharmacies in seminyak and kuta (surprisingly difficult to find on google!). There are a few on every main street eg/ one on Laksmana, Jalan Legian and in Luta on Poppies lane I.
Balinese idiosyncrasies/ etiquette
There are lots of Balinese idiosynracies and cultural norms you will come across. It pays to learn a little about the culture and be respectful to locals who are always to friendly to tourists
Naming system- Most Balinese receive one of four names based on order of birth, regardless of sex. First born is usually Wayan , second born is Made , third born Nyomen and fourth born Ketut.
Religion- Around 80 % of Balinese are Hindu, with the rest largely Islamic.
Dress modestly, especially if visiting a temple (cover arms and shoulders and legs usually). If entering a temple men and women need to wear a sarong and temple scarf around the waist.
Don't use your left hand to give/take things.The left hand is used during toileting, most use water instead of toilet paper so the left hand is the dirty hand. Don't touch peoples heads/ don't enter temples if menstruating/ don't step on offerings on the street / don't use your index finger to point or beckon people . Enough Said.
Also be aware that on Nyepi (Balinese new year) there is 24 hours of silence and most Balinese do not work and tourists are expected to stay in their hotels.
Culturally Balinese do not appreciate unmarried couples. If anyone asks if you are married say "yes" or "soon". Public affection is also generally not encouraged as most Balinese are very conservative.
Balinese believe god should be honoured above- this means avoiding putting shoes up high/ hanging underwear/bathers up high in shower etc. as it is disrespectful.
Haggling- If you are not in a fixed price shop, Balinese will expect you to haggle. Start at roughly 1/4 or 1/3 of what you are prepared to pay, then work your way up. If you start haggling, it is rude to walk away if the owner if is giving you a fair price. It's also rude to start really low the refuse to go any higher.
The Balinese believe making a good first sale for the day will bring them luck and may often make a first sale at a lower price ("morning price"). Shopkeepers will also ask you where you are staying. Don't tell them you are staying in a 5 star luxury hotel if you want to get a good price bargaining!
A few tricks to get you started . . .
"I'm buying two/three/four so you should give me a better deal"
" we only paid $$ yesterday "
"I'm staying nearby and might buy more if you give me a good price"
"give me your morning price"
An overly dramatic "oh my goodness this is sooooo expensive are you joking" also goes a long way
At the end of the day, a few dollars may not mean much to you but is a lot to most local Balinese so do a deal that is "good for me good for you". The conversations I have had and bonds I've shared after bartering are some of my most memorable in Bali.
Things to do
Seminyak
Seminyak houses the upmarket dining/ bar scene (see dining/nightlife section below for more details)
- Seminyak Beach
Seminyak beach is blacksand but is still a nice place to hang out for the day. I prefer Legian beach personally as it is a little nicer. It is also a great place for a morning walk before it gets too hot.
-Day Spas
There are lots of day spas everywhere in Bali. Ask around for where is good or do a bit of trip advisor research. In Seminyak, one of the more upmarket day spas is Body Works. - you are guaranteed an excellent experience here. Massages are $30-50AUD. In one of the low key spas you will pay about $7-10AUD for an hour massage. I like Carla spa in Legian near the Padma.
- See a traditional Balinese dance.
The best place to do this is Ubud but many tours will have one included or they are often on at Made's Warung. The Barong dance is the classic performance most will see.
- Markets/shopping
Shop at the markets and practice your bartering (see tips in post I !) Note that many shops in Seminyak are 'fixed price'. If it has a glass door it is probably fixed price.
Some of my favourite Shopping in Seminyak:
Groceries
- The Bintang Supermarket on Jalan Raya Seminyak has all your staples. There is also a branch in Ubud now.
- The Bali Deli: Gourmet items and is handy if you want to have cheese, meats etc. for snacks at your hotel or villa.
Minimart/ Circle K stores are everywhere and sell most things you will need along the way.
Fashion
Most of my favourite clothing boutiques are along Jalan Oberoi
- Wanderlust swimwear
Stocks Saucha Swimwear (small sizing and expensive for bali but absolutely gorgeous and unique)
Jl. Kayu Aya No.28
- Toko Emporium Seminyak
lovely homewares
Jl Oberoi No 1, Seminyak
- Magali Pasqual ($$$)
Amazing floaty dresses and shirts.
Jalan Oberoi/Laksmana
- Lulu Yasmine ($$$)
Gorgeous lace
Jalan Laksmana x100
- Nyaman Boutique expensive for Bali but nice basics and gorgeous bags. Jl Oberoi No 1, Seminyak
- Divine Diva Gorgeous kaftans and scarves
Jalan Laksmana A1 and 2C
- Somewhere clothing store Well priced casual /surf wear for girls and guys Jalan Laksmana, also one near bintang supermarket on Jalan Legian.
- Ultimate (stocks seafolly and havianas)- two of them on Jalan Oberoi
- Lily Jean Jalan Laksmana x102
Tropicana store cool slogan tees and kids clothes
Jalan Kayu Aya x35 (near seminyak square)
- The White Peacock my favourite shop in Seminyak- cool trinkets, wooden skeletons etc. Jl Kayu Jati no 1X, Seminyak
- Boathouse Bali
Around the corner from motel mexicola, has cute dresses and bags. Jalan petitenget. One of my favourite stores.
Mister Zimi
- Mister Zimi is no longer stocked in Bali- you can buy it online in Australia.
- Hobo Homewares
There are a few of these stores, the best one was on Jl Raya Kerobokan, No 105.
Fairly well priced for the quality but expensive in relation to other stores so shop here last.
Jalan Raya Kerobokan, No 105, Seminyak
- D2 homewares
Massive mission to find but great beachy wooden homewares and stuff you will find for triple the price elsewhere. Jalan Mertha Nadi 30 (is not where it shows on google maps- is actually at the top of mertha nadi where it backs onto the prison (on the left hand side if you are traveling north). This street also has a few other kitch homewares shops
- Beachwalk Mall Kuta
Huge shopping centre in K- uta that is the best of all the large centres but nothing very exciting here other than lots of Japanese tourists and prices slightly cheaper than Australia. That said there is a Zara. Other shopping malls are the Matahari (cheap low end cosmetics) and the Kartika Plaza in Kuta/Tuban – designer knock offs and a breadtop. Now also has an H&M.
- Homewares outlets
I checked out one of the two major homewares outlets in Bali; Geneva. The other store (Biarriatz) is owned by the same people and has the same stock. This is an insane multi level shop with every homeware /touristy gift item you will ever find in the market stalls at 40-60% of cost on the street. It is not like the stuff in the Seminyak boutiques- if you want range of cheaper items- this is the place to go. If you want unique hand crafted goods, try somewhere else. I went to Geneva and was overwhelmed- it is like the super Bunnings of handicrafts! I had purchased lots of basic items of past trips (coasters, table runners etc) but this would be a great place to stock up on this stuff. On the downside, locals sell lots of the same stuff for a higher price but I feel better buying from them to support them. The range at these stores is insane though if you are after something particular. Geneva: Jalan Raya Kerobokan, Kuta Utara (on the left hand side heading out of seminyak towards kerokoban < 1km from jalan oberoi) Biarritz: Jalan Sunset Road, Kuta
Kerobokan
Kerobokan inland from Seminyak has lots of wooden furniture, homewares, sculptures etc. Many people arrange shipping containers to get things home, from benchtops, oversized baths and wooden furniture to literally the kitchen sink. Start with Jalan Raya Kerobokan or Jalan Mertanadi
Custom leather
- Mila Creations This store makes leather jackets and items for many famous Australian stores (check it out and you will see the samples). Very well priced - $110AUD for average detail leather jacket 2015. Most things take 3-4 days to be made. $75AUD for an excellently made leather bag, $85 for a skirt. Jl. Dewi Sri No. 101 Shop No. 4, Kuta.
- The Bali Tailor. Awesome new upmarket tailor in Bali. The shoes are to die for.
- Merry leather Jalan petitnget past sarong ~300m on same side of road. Also had very good reviews and does mimco copies but was closed when I was there.
- Dolphin leather Legian
I had a pair of boots made here, they have been great. Garlic Lane Legian (off Padma utara)
- Jermyn Street leather Kuta
I had a leather jackets made here a couple of years ago 100-120,000rp mens and womens. Poppies Lane I, Kuta
Ubud
- See a traditional dance
The Ubud palace is a popular spot at night to see one of the Balinese traditional dances such as the Barong or Legong dance.
bridge as you enter ubud
- Campuhan Ridge walk This hike is an extremely scenic part of ubud with a trail through the rice paddies to a breathtaking view of Mt Agung. The starting point is off Jalan Ubud Raya - by the Warwick Ibah Luxury Villas and Spa hotel. Go forwards as if you are going into the hotel and follow the arrow on the sign stating 'going to the hill' to a concrete path.
The longer trek is about 9km but there is also a 3-4km (round trip) section up to those Karsa Kafe which is more leisurely. The long walk takes about 2-3 hours and it is recommended to do it early in the day before it gets too hot (also BYO water).
Check out this blog post for a map and photos of the shorter section. Book into the Karsa spa in advance for a massage or treatment (it is often booked out).
- Puri Saren Agung- the water palace
Wander through this temple located in ubud palace with lovely lilly ponds and a restaurant, built in 1823.
Jl. Raya Ubud, Puri Saren Palace, Ubud
- Sacred Monkey Forest The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is nature sanctuary
Definitely worth a visit but make sure EVERYTHING you have on you is put away and secured (sunglasses, cameras, wallets etc). Put drink bottles away, hide shiny jewellery.
DO NOT bring food or buy bananas etc. from people at the gates as the monkeys are known to jump on people etc. Some of the monkeys have been trained to steal items then give them back once you have paid a local for them. Avoid the piles of food on the ground as the monkeys can become defensive. There is a good run down of the rules here. Basically if you don't have anything worth stealing they will ignore you or may jump onto you then jump off if you remain calm. Despite my seemingly frightening instructions it is really worth going!
Entry is about $1AUD
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces
15 mins out of ubud, these rice terraces are definitely worth visiting. Excellent photo opportunities for annoying everyone at home on social media
- Kintamani to Ubud bike tour
We did a day tour with Greenbike Cycling Tours which I can highly recommend. You can book online, cost at the timewas 600,000IDR ($60 AUD) for the day including breakfast, lunch, bikes, helmets and a guide. Safety was definitely a priority and there were two guides to a small group of 6 (vs. 1 guide to 10 riders we saw in other company groups). The tour was downhill and involved almost no cardiovascular activity if you are worried about fitness! Some of the roads are narrow and off-road tracks a bit bumpy but overall an easy ride.
White Water Rafting A friend recommended white water rafting in Ubud as one of the best things she did in Bali on an early visit.
There are lots of companies who do tours (often combined with Elephant park) such as Bali Adventure Rafting.
Uluwatu
- Uluwatu Temple
aka. Pura Luhur Uluwatu, this is one of Bali's six major temples.
Pay a small administration fee, get your sarong and sash (legs must be covered) and enjoy. It's a great place to watch the sunset. We hired a driver to get to here and went there on the way to other things in Uluwatu.
Jl. Raya Uluwatu, Pecatu, Bali,
- Surfing. Uluwatu is known to have some of the best surfing in Bali. Basically you leave your things in a basket at one of the local Warungs whilst you surf and in return buy some food afterwards. Be aware the surf here can be dangerous and is not for beginners
Uluwatu Beach.
- Sunday's Beach Club Located at The Ungasan Luxury Villas, Sunday's beach club (previously known as Finn's beach club) is a great spot to spend a beach day. We paid 300,000IDR (approx $35AUD) for access to the club, towel, umbrella and 150,000 voucher for the bar/restaurant plus free use of the stand up paddle boards/ snorkels/ kayaks. The sand is white and the tunes are perfect. At night there is a bonfire from 6pm. We hired a driver to get there (300k IDR for a half day).
Check the tide charts on their website before you go because at low tide you cannot snorkel/ use the kayak etc.
Next door is Karma Kandara beach club, another option with slightly less beach.
Jalan Pantai Selatan Gau, Banjar Wijaya Kusuma, Ungasan
Canggu
- Beach. Check out Batu Bolong or Echo Beach and watch the extremely talented surfers
- Tanah Lot North of Canggu is the stunning Tanah Lot temple.
Visiting the temple means respecting the local customs- do not enter the sacred areas as indicated, cover your legs (sarongs are provided if needed) and do not enter if menstruating. There will be a small entry fee (adults 10.000 in 2015 approx $1AUD)
Kuta
- Kuta Square. Kuta square is a good landmark to use- not much there except touristy shopping and a McDonalds etc.
The Matahari (major department store) can be handy as it has a huge supermarket if you need something in particular.
- Kuta Art market (Jalan Kartika plaza, just past Kuta Square opposite Ramayana hotel) is basically is a big maze of market with tshirts, souveneers etc. where you can have some fun bargaining but it’s nothing you wouldn't find elsewhere in Kuta or Legian
- Kuta Beach. The beach front in Kuta is busy and full of tourists, the beach at legian is better and less crowded. Beware the strong currents at the beach and be sure to swim between the flags. Hard rock hotel and the beachwalk mall are on this strip along Kuta beach front along with Jamie Oliver's Italian.
- Ground Zeri Memorial. The bali bombing Ground Zero Memorial is worth a visit. It is in the spot where the old Sari nightclub and Paddy's bar stood before the bali bombings in 2002. There is a carved momument and plaques with the names of the victims killed in the terrorist attack.
- Waterbom park. This is waterpark in Kuta is definitely worth a visit if you are into rides. Wetnwild has since installed some of the rides originally seen in Bali. Try 'climax' and 'boomerang'- they are the best.
Legian
- Beach. Beach chairs/umbrellas are owned by Balinese who will rent them to you for as many hours as you like. Prices vary depending on high season/low season, weather, busyness etc! We were paying around 150,000 for two chairs and an umbrella for around 4 hours. You can buy drinks, rent surfboards etc. from the same place.
Enjoy the beautiful beach and hire a surf board/ body board.
Day Spa. Carla Spa on Jalan Padma Utara does great massages (approx. $7.50AUD for 1 hour full body massage) and manicures etc. with OPI or shellac. Generally no appointments needed.
- Nightclub strip. Even if you don't go out, take a walk past the nightclub strip on Jalan Legian between Kuta and Legian. Here you will find famous clubs such as Paddy's Bar, The Bounty and Skygarden. If you do go out be careful because pickpockets and gangs do exist especially in this area. Don't take anything valuable with you, drink from bottled drinks only and don't leave drinks unattended to avoid your drink being spiked. Ideally take someone along who is sober and can make sure you get home!
- Shopping in Legian. Shopping in Legian is generally cheaper than Seminyak and Kuta. Start around Garlic lane and work your way north towards Jl double six. Silver instinct has excellent quality silver at good prices, they also copy jewellery and do custom designs. I paid around $9 for 5 good quality rings. Price is usually by weight (if you can bargain well!) Garlic Lane, Legian. Victory Collection Tailor. We have used this tailor for great mens suits/shirts and copied a complicated flowy dress perfectly. Well priced. Jalan Padma Utara
Dining and Nightlife
I have put a * next to the ones I would highly recommend and have been to. Bali is my ultimate foodie destination (after San Sebastian of course).
Seminyak
- Motel Mexicola *. Great restaurant and the best daiquiri/sangria we had in Seminyak. Food here is delicious and as the night goes on there is ridiculously good 80s hits/ dancing going on. Need to make a booking in advance (easy to do online) Jalan Kayujati No. 9 (5-10 mins walk from seminyak square)
- Mamasan*. Little sister of Sarong, the food at Mamasan is my favourite in Seminyak. Celebrity chef Will Meyrick delivers generous servings, gorgeous cocktails and unbeatable flavours- don’t miss it.
Is more expensive than some other restaurants but still cheaper than the average Australian restaurant (approx. 700,000rp for a couple including drinks). Check out the fairy floss cocktail- phenomenal. Make a booking ASAP. Jalan Raya Kerobokan, Badung
- Sea Circus. Great tacos, healthy and vege options in a really cute setting with nice music. We walked in but I’d probably book in advance. 22 Jalan Kayu Aya [Oberoi Rd], Seminyak (near motel mexicola and body works)
- Made's Warung Seminyak. Good Indonesian food, popular tourist spot, (there's one in kuta too). Often has free entertainment eg/ Balinese dance or live band. Good for families. Br. Seminyak, Kuta (just up from binang supermarket)
- Sisterfields*. lovely coffee and breakfast, dips etc. Signiature dish is the black pulled pork roll.
is just near seminyak square but tricky to find as all three roads here are called Jl Kaya Ayu (go north when you hit seminyak square, towards grocer and grind and it's on your right
- Sarong*. I had extremely high expectations after this place being built up by friends- it fulfilled all my expectations and more. West Asian cuisine- the banana fritter desert is amazing (and will feed at least 4 people!!). The dahl was my absolute favourite. Make a booking well in advance online as it is often heavily booked. Jalan Petitenget, Indonesia
- Gado Gado. French Indo food. Gorgeous setting. Close to SOS supper club or La Plancha for drinks beforehand) Usually need to book in advance. Jalan Camplung Tanduk No.99, Seminyak
- Lello Lello. Well known gelataria with attached indian restaurant (with very good reviews despite the weird combination)
Jalan Petitenget between seminyak square and motel mexicola, opposite the samaya hotel.
- Café Zuccini. Good reviews, friends report they have lovely breakfasts, salads, sandwiches. We were always around this area at the wrong time and never quite made it there. Cute clothes shop attached too. Jalan oberoi (towards jalan raya seminyak end away from kuta square)
- Warisan. Lovely dining, One of the most popular in Seminyak. Jl. Raya Kerobokan No. 38, Banjar Taman
- KZU. Lots of different food with Indonesian, Japanese Western, Italian and Indian influences. Healthy and vegetarian options.
Jl. Drupadi, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
- Watercress. (Kerobokan). Great place with options for everyone.
Jl. Batubelig No. 21A, Kerobokan
- Zula vegetarian paradise. This organic vegan/ vegetarian place was right near a villa I stayed at so friends stopped by daily for great smoothies. Menu is the same as Earth Cafeon Jalan Laksmana in Seminyak. Jl. Camplung Tanduk, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung,
- Wacko Burger Café. It was number 1 on trip advisor for quite some time. The burgers are good!
- Bossman Burgers. Sisterfields' sister restaurant. High end burgers. Australian prices but delish.
- Saigon Street (Petitenget). Authentic Vietnamese Jalan Petitenget No. 77X, Kuta Utara
- Ku De Ta. Everyone’s favourite beach side bar and restaurants with sought after day bed seating and great cocktails. These days the cooler crowd head to Potato head (where food and drinks are also overpriced!) Cocktails range from 120,000-150,000rp each and the tapas is well priced. Location is second to none, get there early with friends (4pm at the latest) and stay for the sunset.
Jalan Kayu Aya no.9, Seminyak ( 5 mins walk from seminyak square)
- Petitenget. Great restaurant in petitenget just north of Seminyak. We had an amazing breakfast here, there's a massive menu and good coffee too. Jl. Petitenget Raya No. 40X, Seminyak,
- Potato Head Beach Club
Potato head is the place to see and be seen- arrive prior to 11am to get a day bed(minimum spend 500,000rp) which is well worth the effort. Cocktail menu is to die for and you are free to use their pool. Lillin restaurant here also has good reviews.
Don’t leave Bali without trying a pitcher of their famous sangria
Jalan Petitenget, Seminyak
- Cocoon Beach Club. This beach club is on the border of seminyak/legian and is a great place to spend the day.
Jalan Double six (right where the street meets the beach, turn right when facing the beach you can’t miss it). Blue Ocean Boulevard, Jalan Double Six No. 66,
- La Plancha Beach Bar*. Beach bar serving delicious sangria and Spanish snacks. Come down to watch the sunset on their famous brightly coloured bean bags. Glass of sangria 90,000rp. The music here is always good. On the beach after Jalan double six if walking towards seminyak look for the colourful umbrellas and bean bags with a multicoloured wooden building- there are a few imposters).
- SOS Supper Club Bar above Anantara Hotel in Seminyak with nice tapas. Dress code applies- no singlets/thongs/alcohol branded clothing.
Jalan Abimanyu (Dhyana Pura)
Ubud
- Soma Kafe*. Raw everything, health food with cashew dressing, cashew cheese... anything you can make out of a cashew is here. Delicious vegan cookies too! Jl. Dewisita, Kec. Gianyar, Gianyar,
- Bali Budda Lots of health food here! Jalan Jembawan No. 1, Kec. Gianyar, Bali
- Watercress Ubud There's a watercress here, also one in Seminyak.
Great food with options for everyone. Tempura veggies were a winner.
Jl Monkey Forest, Ubud, Bali 80571,
Uluwatu
- Single Fin*. The best Sunday session in Bali hands down - don't miss it. Cheap drinks, great view of the surf from the decks perched on the cliffs of Uluwatu. Jl. Labuan Sait Pantai Suluban, Uluwatu, Pecatu
Canggu
- Old Man's*. Old Man's is a casual bar on the beachfront at Batu Bolong. Definitely pay a visit in the afternoon/evening to watch the sunset and have a Bintang. When the waves are good you can watch the avid surfers on Batu Bolong beach. It's one of my favourite spots in Bali. The Lucas Grogan illustrations makes it even more appealing to visit. Batu Bolong Beach, Bali
- La Finca. Spanish cuisine and tapas. Jl. Subak Sari #77, Banjar Tegal Gundu
- Betelnut Cafe*. Cafe/ restaurant with great breakfast options, healthy things + old favourites. Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.60, Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung
- Crate Cafe*. My favourite brunch in Bali - excellent byron bay style food with something for everyone. Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong No. 60, Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung
- Milk & Madu. Great breakfast and coffee, lovely open plan setting.
Jl. Pantai Brawa, Canggu, Bal
- Ruko. Brunch, coffee, juices. Is a bit further inland. Jl. Pantai Berawa no. 99, Canggu, Bali,
Kuta
- Made’s Warung. Is a famous restaurant in Bali, has a sister store in Seminyak. Known for their local Indonesian dishes. Jalan Pantai Kuta (not far from kuta square), There is also one on Jalan Raya Seminyak (near the bintang supermarket).
- Febris. Restaurant attached to Febris’ hotel where the owner who looks a little like Fabio (presumably named Febris!) sings karaoke during your dinner. Hilarious and the food is actually okay for a touristy area. Try the satays. Jalan Kartika (Tuban end)
Legian
- Mozzeralla. There are four franchises of mozzarella around Legian/Kuta now but the best one is on the beach (next to the Bali Niksoma Hotel). Two for one cocktail specials are on nearly every night. Nice western and indo food and well priced for the lovely setting overlooking the water
- Café Marzano.
Casual atmosphere and great pizza, definitely worth a visit. Jalan double six (down the beach end ¾ of the way down, on the left when facing the beach)
- Indonational. Casual warung, cheaply priced and delicious. Jalan Padma No. 17, Legian.
Questions?
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Check out my bali photo journal too for more spam.
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