6 incredible experiences not to be missed in Bali

Bali - the tropical paradise that has captivated travelers for decades with its soft-sand beaches in Nusa islands, vibrant nightlife in Kuta, lush rice terraces in Sidemen, a magical blend of a colorful culture in Ubud or best diving spots in Amed or Gilis, There's so much more to this Indonesian gem than meets the eye. Let’s buckle up and get ready for an unique adventure in Bali.

Broken beach in Nusa Penida

Table of content:

1. Swim with manta rays in Nusa Lembongan

2. Chase the sunset at Amok Sunset Restaurant 

3. Underwater expedition in Tulamben

4. Discover hidden waterfalls in the North

5. Catch a glimpse of adorable dolphins in Lovina

6. Explore a mecca for food lovers in the know 

   
   

Swim with manta rays in Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan is a must-visit gem. Nusa Lembongan is one of the three islands that make up the Nusa Penida district, located off the east coast of Bali. You can get access by speed boats from Sanur harbor in approximately 30 minutes. It is known as pristine beaches, great surfing, amazing diving spots, and relaxed vibes travelers cherish than crowded in Kuta or Semiyak.

Blue Lagoon in Nusa Lembongan

If you are on the hunt for the beauty of marine life where a school of colorful fishes swim around the coral reef or see the manta rays performing their dance, Nusa Lembongan is the perfect place for you. On the island, there are so many vendors offering go snorkeling tours with reasonable prices for worthy experiences. Local guides will take you to manta ray sightings in Nusa Penida, including Manta Ray Bay, Manta Point. However, be warned! There are pretty strong currents so it’s best to snorkel with the experienced divers.

Snorkel with beautiful coral reef

Manta rays swim quickly 

Everything you need is your luck, because manta rays are a kind of wild animal so you can’t ever 100% guarantee seeing them. Be noticed that manta rays come to Manta Point all year round with the peak of season falling between March to June.

Chase the sunset at Amok Sunset Restaurant 

Amok Sunset Restaurant is the ultimate spot for chasing the sunset in Nusa Penida. Why? Because you can have a panoramic view while sipping on a cocktail in hand! This restaurant situated in the unparalleled location overlooks Gamat Bay and it will leave you awe-inspired with the view of Mount Agung.

Serene view at Amok Sunset

An infinite pool at Amok Sunset

Immersing yourself in the timeless Balinese “Bale Bale” roofs with modern bamboo architecture, snapping some amazing insta-worthy photos at infinity pool, taking 360° view of majestic Mount Agung in the private nests or enjoying signature cocktails. There is no doubt that Amok Sunset is one of the emerging must-visits in Nusa Penida that is perfectly suited for solo wanderers or larger gatherings.

Underwater expedition in Tulamben

Bali's underwater world is just as captivating as its land and Tulamben is no exception. This destination is world famous for large stretches of unique black sand beaches, and the USS Liberty wreck so it is a haven for marine enthusiasts. However, Tulamben is rarely visited by tourists due to how far it is from the more popular areas like Nusa Penida, Ubud or Denpasar. That is the reason the beaches in this area are relatively less polluted, which means that you can enjoy the sight of healthy coral reefs and take instagrammable photos without hordes of tourists.

A long stretch of black sand with calm waves

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the shipwreck

Finding Nemo 

In Tulamben, diving schools or diving tours are everywhere. If you are interested in diving in one of the marine paradises in the world like Tulamben to witness life under shipwreck, please take an Open Water Course around 3 days to learn basic diving exercises. After that, you can divide within 18 meters of water to see the USS Liberty wreck with an abundance of fish surrounding you everywhere you turn.

Discover hidden waterfalls in the North

Heading to North Bali is often overlooked by tourists, but it's a treasure trove of hidden waterfalls. Git Git, Sekumpul, and Aling-Aling, Banyu Wana Amertha, Banyumala are the best waterfalls you should visit, where you can swim in cool water and take a deep breath with lush green vegetation surrounding you. 

Banyu Wana Amertha waterfall

Lush green vegetation at Banyu Wana Amertha waterfall

The journey to these falls will take you through lush jungles and authentic Balinese villages. To get there, you need to hire a motorbike in order to go around easily because most of the amazing waterfalls are secluded deep in the forest. The entrance fee is cheap and definitely worth a visit. Be mindful that a lot of locals try to stop you on the way to Sekumpul waterfall and demand to pay Rp.150,000 or more and take a guide. However, the entrance offices sell tickets to the viewpoint for only Rp.20,000 so you need to be more careful.

Catch a glimpse of adorable dolphins in Lovina

Lovina is a laid-back coastal village which is renowned for the beauty of black sand beaches, crystal waters, and snorkeling activities. Go dolphin-watching is the must-thing to do in this area. Starting at around 6 am when the sun rises on the ocean, it is the perfect time to chase a pack of dolphins back and forth along Lovina Beach with hundreds of boats.

5:45 at Lovina 

The Sun breaks the horizon

The tour will take you two hours, including swimming with dolphins, snorkeling at Lovina reef and you will be surprised with the low price for the tour. Can’t imagine that most visitors missed this destination because it offers a lot such as a calm beach, hospitable people, seafood mouth-watering cuisine and lovely dolphins. Experience the joy of singing with a group of dolphins at least once in your lifetime!

Morning with dolphins

Explore a mecca for food lovers in the know 

Bali is so blessed with food riches because of the blend of cultures where you can find Western food, Vietnamese or Thai dishes on the way and Indonesian. Balinese dishes loved by locals and tourists alike Babi Guling, Bebek Bengil, Nasi Goreng, Bakso and Satay… For more authentic foods, you should go to the night markets such as Pasar Sayan night market, Pasar Senggol Gianyar. These markets are popular among locals and offer affordable prices than the center of Ubud or Kuta.

Here are some must-visit places that fuel up your stomach on the trip to Bali:

• Babi Guling Buk Ari: best tasty suckling pig

• Warung Mandi: best traditional Balinese dishes 

• Warung makan bu rus Ubud: best the crispiest duck

• Warung Kayana: best delicious pork ribs

• Sisterfields: best brunch food

• Warung Pizarro: best seafood

Food to die for

Stunning beaches and a truly gorgeous landscape that combines nature and culture in the most beautiful way, it is Bali - the tropical paradise in Southeast Asia. Want to see more of Bali? Check out the ultimate guide with me now!