Bali has long been a top destination, but with new attractions and timeless beauty, this island offers something for everyone. This ranges from the iconic statue of GWK for culture seekers, surf breaks for adventurers, to tranquil escapes for wellness travelers. Wondering where are the absolute best places to go in Bali? This complete guide highlights the must-visit destinations in Bali, including the cultural heartlands to the southern cliffs and serene eastern coast, with a special focus on Bali’s no. 1 tourist destination GWK Cultural Park.
List of Places to Go in Bali
- GWK Cultural Park at Ungasan
No. 1 tourist destination in Bali would be none other than Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park. This park is home to the world’s fourth tallest statue, the iconic GWK statue, that stands at an impressive height of 121 m tall. Why is GWK a must-visit? We offer tons of exciting attractions packed in one place:
- Daily Cultural Performances: You can enjoy 10+ Balinese cultural performances including the Kecak GWK, Barong Dance, and many others that are performed daily at the Amphitheater and Lotus Pond.
- The BarAong Show (The Legendary Barongs in a Breathtaking Show): a modernized version of the regular barong performance with 5 barongs in one show. It adapts the story of Prince Bara searching for Barong, the guardian spirit that maintains the balance of the world. This show performs every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 6 PM at the Amphitheater.
- Top of the Statue Tour: A guided tour that takes you to the 9th and 23rd floor of the GWK statue. You’ll get the opportunity to learn about the history of the statue and witness stunning panoramic views of South Bali from a unique viewpoint.
- Jendela Bali the Panoramic Resto: GWK’s own lounge restaurant that is the perfect dining place for unwinding after a draining day. This place is where you can have the most exquisite Indonesian or international cuisine and beverages at a reasonable price. Perched on top of a hill, your meal will be even more memorable accompanied by breathtaking views of Bali from above.
- Uluwatu
The Uluwatu area is known for being a cliff-top paradise with a ton of stunning cliffside beaches such as the Padang Padang Beach, Suluban/Blue Point Beach, and Bingin Beach. The world-class waves makes this area the most heavenly place to go surfing in Bali. You can also find chic cliff bars and sunset spots with breathtaking views overlooking the ocean.
- Nusa Penida
For a memorable island escapade, visit Nusa Penida. This island is where you can find some of the most famous and iconic beaches in Bali such as the Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach. One of the must-experience attractions here would be snorkeling with manta rays. This place also offers off-the-beaten-path gems for a quieter adventure.
- Ubud
Ubud is where you can find the combination of rich cultural heritage and lush natural landscape. The town of Ubud is lined up with art markets and galleries showcasing Balinese crafts, yoga retreats, and holistic wellness experiences. Other than those, you can also find the UNESCO-recognized wonder, Tegallalang Rice Terraces and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
- Kintamani
Visit Kintamani for an one-of-a-kind volcano and lake adventure. From this unique viewpoint, you’ll be able to witness the most breathtaking highlands views. You can also find the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek, Lake Batur, as well as nearby cafes and hot springs.
- Karangasem
Eastern Bali is a hidden gem that is no less of a mesmerizing tourist area than the other parts of Bali. Some of the must-visit places here are the Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven), Tirta Gangga Water Palace, and Virgin Beach for a laid-back coastal escape.
- Seminyak and Canggu
Last but not least, we have Bali’s stylish hotspot Seminyak and Canggu. These areas are perfect for a sunset chill evening especially at Seminyak Beach and Batu Bolong Beach. Not only that, these areas also offer high-end shopping and designer boutiques, luxurious beach clubs, vibrant nightlife, and fine dining.
Tips for Vacation in Bali
Visiting a worldwide famous and unique tourist destination like Bali requires meticulous preparations. Here are some tips for a seamless Bali trip:
- Respect local culture: Wear sarongs in temples, and follow local customs.
- Transport tips: Use ride-hailing apps, hire a scooter (only if experienced), or arrange a driver for day trips.
- Best travel time: April-October (dry season) for sunny weather.
- Currency and payment: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the main currency; ATMs are widely available, but carry small cash for local markets.
- Connectivity: Local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi are cheap and convenient.
- Safety tip: Be mindful of ocean currents when swimming at unguarded beaches.
Bali offers diverse experiences, from beaches and rice terraces to cultural icons. GWK Cultural Park is the one stop that combines art, culture, and history in one breathtaking setting. Make your Bali journey complete by adding GWK Cultural Park to your itinerary. Book your tickets today and witness the magic of this world-class cultural park!