I could probably live in Bali the rest of my life and completely live in the sticks and have a f – king moped and make a record every couple of years and not step in public and break even like I do anyway. That’s really tempting.
Ben Folds
When life starts to feel a little too loud, many people instinctively turn their thoughts to Bali—not just anyone, even celebrities! Chances are, you’ve probably seen your friends posting from this hotspot and felt tempted by its beauty. Bali isn’t just a holiday destination—it’s a place packed with feels. With its sun-drenched coastlines, lush rice terraces, and a culture rooted in calm and connection, Bali draws in everyone from overstressed city dwellers to solo soul-searchers.
Whether you’re chasing sunsets, healing through yoga, or simply craving a moment of quiet in a chaotic world, Bali offers the kind of reset that feels almost spiritual. A weekend here doesn’t just feel like a getaway but also like a breath of fresh air for the mind, body, and soul. Got your mind being all curious now with this talk about this well-known haven? Great because today’s spotlight will be about what you can do at this relaxing and aesthetic retreat!
Authentic Non-Touristy Places to Stay in Bali
Hideout Bali
Address : Banjar Alas Tunggal, Jalan Jangu, Selat – Kabupaten Karangasem, 80862 Bali, Indonesia
In a world where Bali’s beaches get increasingly Insta-famous, Hideout Bali stands apart. Tucked high in the mountains of Gunung Agung and nestled beside a sacred river, this eco‑lodge of all‑bamboo homes is the polar opposite of the tourist circuit. These hand‑crafted bamboo hideaways are built by local artisans, reflecting authentic Balinese design and sustainable living. With open‑air living rooms, outdoor showers, mosquito‑net–draped king beds, and natural ventilation which means there’s no AC and only natural air surrounding you, these homes are crafted for total immersion in nature.
Each villa is unique, from the Beehive with its hot tub over the river, to the Element’s infinity jacuzzi with jungle-canopy views. The property operates as a small family‑run eco‑resort, offering local meals delivered straight to your door and even complimentary scooters so you can explore artisan villages and nearby waterfalls off the beaten path.
Bambu Indah
Address: Jl. Baung, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Hidden in the greenery of Ubud’s Sayan Ridge, Bambu Indah is far from the tourist-packed beach resorts—it’s an eco‑sanctuary where the living world pulses right at your doorstep. Launched in 2005 by John & Cynthia Hardy as a collection of antique Javanese teak bridal homes, it’s grown into a living experiment in regenerative hospitality with 23 unique lodgings that feel rediscovered rather than designed. Each space beautifully curated from floating mud‑walled tents and tree‑top nests to the crescent‑shaped Moon House and Copper House which emerges from bamboo, reclaimed teak, and handcrafted copper.
No two are alike, but all share wide‑open layouts, open‑air bathrooms, vaulted ceilings, French linens, and creature comforts like air‑conditioned beds. Dining here is just as authentic. The riverside Warung and the Tembaga Restaurant serve farm‑to‑table menus, with ingredients sourced from the onsite garden, herb patches, and duck‑fertilized rice fields. Enjoy sunrise yoga on a private bamboo deck, evening cocktails from the cliffside Elevator Sunset Bar, and traditional Balinese purification rituals in sacred springs.
Bali Food Must Try
Babi Guling
If there’s one dish that captures the spirit of Bali in a single bite, it’s babi guling. Traditionally reserved for temple offerings and special occasions, this dish has become a beloved staple across the island, and tasting it is like being welcomed into a deeply personal part of Balinese life. Babi guling is a whole pig, slow-roasted over an open flame until the skin crisps into golden perfection. The dish is stuffed with a rich mix of turmeric, lemongrass, coriander seeds, galangal, garlic, and a generous amount of Balinese love. The result is a dish that’s equal parts juicy, smoky, spicy, and unforgettable.
Where to Find the Best Babi Guling in Bali?
- Warung Babi Guling Pak Malen
- Warung Babi Guling Pande Egi
- Warung Babi Guling Bu Dayu Kencani
Nasi Campur Bali
We Malaysians love our Nasi Campur but have you ever tried one from our neighbouring country? Meaning “mixed rice,” this humble-yet-hearty dish is a flavorful snapshot of Balinese cuisine on a single plate. You’ll get a scoop of fragrant rice surrounded by a vibrant mix of meats, vegetables, sambals, peanuts, eggs, satay, and sometimes even tempeh or crispy fish, all seasoned with rich spices and local flair. No two plates are ever the same for this dish which allows you to explore the true local favourite that lets you taste the diversity of Bali in every bite.
Where to eat Nasi Campur in Bali
- Warung nasi campur bali Men Sutini
- Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku – Ubud (Pusat)
- Nasi Tékor Bali
Ayam Betutu
If you’re diving into Balinese flavors, Ayam Betutu is an absolute must. This slow-cooked, spice-laden wonder features a whole chicken—or sometimes duck—marinated in a heady paste of turmeric, chili, garlic, ginger, and traditional rempah. Wrapped in banana leaves and roasted to tender perfection, it emerges smoky and deeply flavorful. Served with rice and sambal, Ayam Betutu isn’t just a meal—it’s Bali’s culinary storytelling in each bite. Rich, comforting, and beautifully complex—a warm invitation to dig in and taste the island’s soul. If you’re someone who loves their daily dose of rice with chicken and an added mix of sambal, you’re definitely going to want to find a spot where this tasty dish is served at.
Where to eat Ayam Betutu in Bali?
- Ayam Betutu Khas Gilimanuk
- Ayam Betutu Ibu Mira Dewi Sri
Ikan Bakar Jimbaran
Few things capture the magic of Bali quite like Ikan Bakar which is grilled fish done in Jimbaran-style. Imagine sitting by the ocean, feet in the sand, the sun dipping low on the horizon, and a platter of smoky, spice-rubbed fish arriving fresh off the grill. Jimbaran Bay is famous for its seafood warungs, where the catch of the day is marinated in a blend of garlic, turmeric, lime, and sweet soy sauce, then grilled over coconut husk charcoal for that extra kiss of smokiness. The result? Flaky, flavorful fish with just the right balance of char, spice, and sweetness. Served alongside rice, kangkung which is water spinach, sambal matah, and a squeeze of fresh lime, Ikan Bakar Jimbaran is simple, but unforgettable.
Where to eat Ikan Bakar Jimbaran in Bali
- Warung Ramayana Ikan Bakar Jimbaran
- Warung Mami Ikan Bakar
- Ikan Bakar dan Goreng Khas Jimbaran
Lawar
Lawar might seem like just another side dish—but one bite in, and you’ll realize it’s a powerhouse of Balinese flavor. Made with minced meat, often pork or chicken, grated coconut, rich herbs, and loads of local spices, Lawar is earthy, savory, and sometimes even mixed with fresh animal blood for an extra depth of flavor. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but that’s exactly why it’s worth trying. Traditionally served during ceremonies and family gatherings, Lawar gives you a raw, unfiltered taste of Balinese culture that is bold, complex, and unapologetically real. Pair it with rice and you’re in for a truly authentic island meal. If you’re looking to dine in a dish that not only offers you some sort of challenge to your taste buds but something that’ll live in your memories, Lawar is definitely that dish.
Where to eat Lawar in Bali?
- Lawar Bali Kartika
- Lawar Jik Tonk
- Lawar Kuwir Men Koko
Soak Up Balinese Culture & Beauty at These Unmissable Places
Tirta Empul Temple
Nestled in the lush hills of Tampaksiring, Tirta Empul Temple is one of Bali’s most sacred sites, famed for its holy spring water believed to cleanse the body and spirit. Balinese locals and visitors alike come to participate in the melukat ritual, bathing under a series of stone fountains, each with symbolic significance. The air hums with serenity, incense smoke, and ancient chants, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Surrounded by vibrant greenery and centuries-old carvings, Tirta Empul offers not just a cultural experience, but a moment of reflection, renewal, and connection to Bali’s living traditions.
Bias Tugel Beach
Tucked away behind a short jungle trek near Padang Bai, Bias Tugel Beach is one of Bali’s best-kept secrets. With its soft white sand, turquoise waters, and lack of crowds, it offers the kind of secluded escape that feels almost unreal. Fringed by coconut palms and gentle waves, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the untouched beauty. You won’t find flashy beach clubs here but just small warungs, fresh coconuts, and the soothing sound of the sea. If you’re looking to trade the tourist buzz for a moment of quiet bliss, Bias Tugel is your spot.
Sunset at Pura Luhur Lempuyang
Known for its iconic “Gates of Heaven,” Pura Luhur Lempuyang offers one of the most breathtaking sunset views in Bali. Perched high on Mount Lempuyang, the temple rewards visitors with sweeping views of Mount Agung and a sky that transforms into a canvas of gold and lavender as the sun dips low. The journey up may involve a steep climb, but the stillness, spiritual energy, and cinematic scenery make it all worth it. Whether you’re there to reflect, pray, or snap that famous shot, the sunset here feels nothing short of divine.
Shop & Experience in Bali
Bali Souvenirs
Bali is a treasure trove of meaningful souvenirs. Think handcrafted silver jewelry from Celuk, intricate batik fabrics, wood carvings from Ubud, or natural spa products like coconut oil and handmade soaps. For something truly special, look for locally made incense or traditional Balinese paintings—items that carry the island’s soul back with you.
Authentic Experiences in Bali
To truly feel the heart of Bali, go beyond the typical tourist trail. Join a local cooking class in a family compound, take part in a temple ceremony, or learn traditional dance from a village troupe. Trek through rice paddies with a local guide, visit early morning markets, or try your hand at batik making. These small, human moments offer a deeper connection to the island that is rooted in culture, hospitality, and a slower way of life that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Sunrise and sunset in Bali
Bali does light like no other. Start your day with a quiet sunrise hike up Mount Batur to watch the first light spill over the clouds is nothing short of magical. In the evening, head to spots like Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, or even a quiet beach in Amed for golden-hour views that feel timeless. Whether you’re surrounded by temples, cliffs, or ocean, Bali’s skies have a way of making you pause, breathe, and just be.
Warungs in Bali
Some of the best meals in Bali aren’t found in trendy cafés but they’re found at humble warungs. These small, family-run eateries offer home-cooked dishes packed with flavour and heart. Whether it’s a plate of nasi campur, mee goreng, or spicy sambal-laced veggies, eating at a warung is the best way to taste real Balinese cooking which is unfiltered, affordable, and full of soul. Skip the menus, ask what’s good, and eat like a local.
The food of Bali is soul food in the truest sense.” – From babi guling (suckling pig) to sate lilit (minced seafood satay), Bali’s flavour-packed cuisine will satisfy your tastebuds and soul.
With all the hype Bali gets, it’s only natural to wonder—what exactly is it about this island that keeps everyone coming back? Could it be the humble warungs that offer a taste of authentic Indonesian cooking? Maybe it’s the sight of seeing our hot sun go up or our calming moon rising up? Whatever the reason is, Bali certainly deserves its recognition for being a hotspot of a holiday spot with a lot of things to offer towards its visitors. If you have not given yourself some ‘me-time’ and is searching for a destination that is sure to relax you, Bali may just be that much needed break from life you deserve. As usual, we hope that this article has been insightful for you and that you’ve learned a thing or two. Till next time! Take it easy.
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