by Lori Zaino Why go?: Exotic, romantic and sexy, this Indonesian island paradise is known for its breathtaking beaches, jungles, and volcanic landscapes. Bali is ideal for honeymooners searching for a spiritual yet hedonistic escape.
Best ideas: Hang with primates at the Sacred Monkey Forest, splurge on a stunning villa with your own private infinity pool and floating breakfast, explore ancient Balinese temples, trek through the jungle, experience traditional healing rituals, go surfing or diving in the crystal clear waters, or simply spend your days beach hopping. It’s all up to you.
Good to know: Bali, like many tropical island destinations, experiences a dry season and a wet season — for obvious reasons, plan your honeymoon trip for the dry season. The island is also larger than you may think, so make sure you consider the activities you want to do and stay in a convenient area to avoid long drives and lots of traffic.
The Indonesian island of Bali is known for being one of the sexiest and most romantic islands in the world, with an impressive luxury hotel scene to match. It’s always been a place boho-chic backpackers and adventurous couples have visited, but movies like Eat, Pray Love really took Bali’s tourism scene to the next level — even now, new chic hotels and restaurants are constantly popping up around the island.
Whether you’re in search of a honeymoon full of luxury, pampering, spiritual growth, romance, jungle treks, volcanic hikes, water sports, or incredible white-sand beaches, Bali’s got it all. Or maybe you just really want a legendary Instagram snap of you and your partner on one of those epic swings over the rice paddy fields….
Traveling & Getting Around in Bali
Planes and boats: Bali is as far away as it gets from the United States — maybe that’s part of its allure? — and you’ll likely have to change planes in Europe, Asia, or the Middle East to reach it. A quick layover is possible, or you could combine your Bali honeymoon adventure with a few days in a stopover destination like Dubai, Singapore, or Bangkok. Although Bali is an island, it’s still pretty far from Indonesian hubs like Jakarta, so flying really is the best option, though you can get there from the Gili Islands by boat in about five hours.
Visa and immunization: Travelers coming from the U.S. won’t need a visa for stays under 30 days, but make sure you have two empty pages and at least six months of validity left on your passport. Yellow fever vaccines aren’t required to enter, but it may be a good idea to chat with your doctor about getting one (and any other suggested vaccines) before your trip.
The island of Bali is large — you’ll likely be flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), which, to give you some perspective, is about an hour’s drive from Ubud — so expect long car rides, especially during the high season. It’s best to consider the activities you want to do and book a hotel nearby so you don’t waste too much time fighting traffic. For instance, if your hotel is in Nusa Dua on the southern tip of the island, it’ll take more than an hour to reach the restaurants of Seminyak or a few hours to head north for waterfalls or volcano trekking. Scooter rentals are ideal for couples, but only if you’re familiar with driving them. Be extra careful. Nothing ruins a dream honeymoon in Bali like a motorcycle accident.
The seasons: Avoid heavy rains by visiting during the dry season, which runs from May to September. And don’t worry about it getting cold; the weather in Bali hovers around 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. While Bali’s high season does see more traffic, crowds, and higher prices, enjoying the island without having to worry about stormy weather is worth it, especially for a trip as important as your honeymoon. Those traveling on a budget may want to consider visiting in the shoulder season months — April, May, and September — when the weather isn’t as intense, costs are lower, and crowds are fewer.
Jungle vs beach: Another thing to consider when traveling to Bali is whether to stay in the jungle or at the beach. Don’t discount jungle stays, which can be even more epic and romantic than a beach stay. Just be prepared for strong sun and mosquitos no matter where you stay — even paradise has its downsides.
Although Bali is one of the priciest vacation spots in Southeast Asia (vs. prices in other Southeastern locales), you’ll still get a lot for your money, especially compared to popular honeymoon destinations like Hawaii, the Maldives, and Europe.
Make sure you have some Indonesia Rupiahs, the colorful currency used throughout the country, as most small restaurants, markets, and street food vendors will only accept cash.
Dress code! On a cultural note, take care not to offend locals by using your right hand for everything and never your left hand. In rural villages, you may want to dress more conservatively, especially when you’re visiting a mosque or temple, though sarongs are usually available to rent at temples just in case.
Honeymoon in Bali: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It doesn’t get more exotic or far-flung than Bali.
- Enjoy beaches, jungles, spas, and plenty of nature and wildlife.
- You’ll spend less money compared to a honeymoon in Hawaii or Europe.
- There’s a unique spiritual feel to the island.
- Plenty of dining and fitness options for vegan and health-conscious honeymooners.
Cons:
- It’s really far away from the US.
- You’ll spend more money compared to other Southeast Asian destinations.
- It can be full of tourists and bad traffic depending on where and when you go.
- There are islands closer to the U.S. that offer a blend of beaches and nature, like Costa Rica or the islands of the Caribbean.
- You’re limited to the dry or shoulder seasons unless you want to deal with the intense rains of the wet season.
Bali Regions
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Canggu
Canggu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Niklas Weiss)
This coastal area, popular among the digital nomad crowd, is known for having great waves for surfing and is full of hip boutique hotels and chill restaurants. Slightly inland, you can explore the thriving rice paddies.
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Ubud and Sayan
Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Jørn Eriksson)
Those lush tropical jungles you imagine when you think of Bali? You’ll find them in Ubud and Sayan, both located inland and home to everything from adventure activities to traditional Balinese spiritual healing rituals.
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Seminyak
Seminyak, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by les_petites_decouvertes)
One of the trendiest areas for dining, Seminyak is where you’ll find the most stylish restaurants and expensive shops on the island. Be aware that this area can get very crowded, so if you’re hoping for a quiet honeymoon away from all the buzz, don’t spend too much time in this neighborhood.
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Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua Beach, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by The Ritz-Carlton, Bali)
Bali’s southeastern tip is where some of the largest resorts have opened up, including some by well-known brands like Westin, St. Regis, Sofitel, and The Ritz-Carlton. It’s ideal for honeymooners who want to hole up in a fancy beach resort, the only downside being the eastern side of the island won’t offer phenomenal Balinese sunset views.
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Uluwatu
Uluwatu, Pecatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by felfin05 evin)
A chill area full of surfers and sandy beaches, this part of the western side of Bali is becoming fancier with the addition of hotels by brands like Mandarin Oriental and Six Senses. At least you’ll be able to get the perfect Instagram sunset snap here.Â
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North Bali
North Bali Camp, Jalan Tekukur, Kaliuntu, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by CEphoto, Uwe Aranas)
Escape the tourists and head to the northern part of the island for a more off-the-beaten-path honeymoon. This is where you can really interact with the locals and explore traditional villages, waterfalls, temples, and have a quiet and more intimate Bali experience.
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Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Sandy Bay Lembongan)
These two islands are actually a short boat ride from Bali, but worth it for diving or snorkeling-obsessed honeymooners seeking less of a scene and more of a far-flung island feel. The lodging options here aren’t quite as luxurious, but the clear waters and white sands are well worth it.Â
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Best Attractions & Activities in Bali
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Diving and Snorkeling off Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island, Sumber Klampok, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Menjangan Diving)
Just a 30-minute boat ride from Bali, Menjangan Island is a diver’s paradise and part of West Bali National Park. Go on an underwater adventure with Menjangan Diving to see colorful coral reefs, black tip and white tip reef sharks, Mandarin fish, and Manta rays, among other wildlife. Two-tank dives start at $135 per person.
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Ubud Monkey Forest
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Jalan Monkey Forest, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Ubud Monkey Forest)
According to Bali locals, Ubud Monkey Forest is sacred, as are the 700 primates who live there. It costs $5.50 per person to enter and you can expect the mischievous critters to come right up to you and sit on your shoulders. Just make sure you don’t bring in any food and keep a close eye on your personal belongings.
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Sekumpul Waterfall
Sekumpul Waterfall, Sekumpul, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Alexandra K)
Head north for a day trip to one of Bali’s most impressive waterfalls, Sekumpul. It’ll be a full-day adventure — it’s a 2.5-hour drive from the southern tip of the island — but seeing the massive cascade up close is worth the effort. Per-person fees range from $1.50 to view Sekumpul waterfall to $9 for a medium trek and $15 for a long trek. Both the medium and long trek fees include the services of a local guide, a donation to the local village, and viewings of Sekumpul and Hidden waterfalls, while the long trek offers an additional hike to nearby Fiji waterfall.
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Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul Temple, Jalan Tampaksiring, Manukaya, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Saranabhi)
Start your marriage off on the right foot with a traditional spiritual ritual at this Balinese water temple in Tampaksiring. The Hindu temple, Tirta Empul, was built around natural springs as early as the 10th century and today, you can bathe in its ethereal waters. Entrance fees are $1 per person, while sarong and locker rentals cost less than $1 each.
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Pura Lempuyang Temple
Penataran Lempuyang, West Seraya, Karangasem Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Jenniferbustamin)
One of the most Instagrammable places on the island — and let’s face it, Bali has a lot of them — you’ve probably seen photos of influencers posing in front of this temple’s famous doors. Although it’s a couple hours from Ubud, if you can make it there by sunrise, the photo-ops are well worth it. Entry is donation based and sarong rental is less than $1.
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Treat Yourselves to a Balinese-Inspired Spa Day
AYANA Resort and Spa, BALI, Sejahtera, Jalan Karang Mas, Jimbaran, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Ayana Spa)
Nothing says honeymoon like a couples spa treatment. Ayana Spa overlooks the sea and offers a special lovebirds spa package, which includes a soothing foot wash, full body scrub, flower bath, and a Balinese body massage for two for about $340 per couple.
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Do Some Yoga
Yoga Barn, Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Yoga Barn)
A large portion of Bali’s charm comes from its spiritual vibes and healthy living — you’ll see yoga studios, raw food restaurants, and healing centers all over the island. Join the fun by doing a class at Yoga Barn or try a private, more intimate class for just the two of you. Drop-in classes cost about $9 per person, while a private class for two will run you $70.
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Volcano Trekking
Bali Sunrise Trekking & Tours, Jalan Songan, Songan A, Bangli Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Bali Sunrise Trekking & Tours)
Delve deep into Bali’s volcanic roots with a sunrise trek to the Batur Caldera. Couples interested in advanced treks may prefer a more intense hike up Mount Abang, the highest point of the Batur Caldera, or an even harder climb up Mount Agung, though it’s closed now due to increased volcanic activity (Mount Batur, however, is located outside the exclusion zone and is still considered safe to hike). Hikes can be done safely with a guide through Bali Sunrise Trekking & Tours, with prices starting at $37 per person excluding transportation to Bali Sunrise Villas in Toya Bungkah village, where the treks start.
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Take a Balinese Cooking Class
Paon Bali Cooking Class, Petulu, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Paon Bali Cooking Class)
Learn how to cook Indonesian food with an English-speaking Balinese chef in a village kitchen during a Paon Bali Cooking Class. For about $25 per person, you’ll tour the garden, source ingredients, and chat with locals before learning how to create either meat or vegetable-based traditional dishes.
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Rice Paddy Trekking
Bali Adventure Camp, Kawan, Bangli Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Bali Adventure Camp)
Experience Bali’s revered rice paddies with a walking tour by Bali Adventure Camp that lets you meander past rivers, tunnels, rice-paddy fields, and traditional villages. Prices start at $30 per person, while hotel pick-up is available for $10 more per person. For a more intimate experience, consider a private trek as opposed to a group one. Quad and cycling trips are also available.
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Learn to Surf
ODYSSEYS SURF SCHOOL, Lobby Mercure hotel, Jalan Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Odysseys Surf School)
Options are endless when it comes to sandy strips and big swells on the island of Bali. Private lessons at Odysseys Surf School start around $85 per couple and afterward, you can chill out on the beach and relax.
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The Best Hotels, Resorts & Airbnbs in Bali
Whether it’s The Ritz-Carlton or an Airbnb rental, you’ll find the perfect accommodation for your budget and style in Bali, from big spender opulence to boho-chic backpacker and everything in between. Vacation home rentals are a great option for those seeking luxury on a budget — you might even find a stunning home-away-from-home for a third of the price of a hotel.
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Hanging Gardens of Bali
Best Infinity Pool Hanging Gardens Of Bali, Buahan, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Hanging Gardens of Bali)
Vibe: Imagine yourself lounging in one of the most spectacular infinity pools in the world, perched on the edge of a hilltop amid Ubud’s lush jungles. If you’re willing to fork over $400 per couple, the Hanging Gardens of Bali will even set up a romantic dinner on a wooden bridge over the pool.
Price: Room rates start at $650 per night.
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Six Senses Uluwatu, Bali
Best Private Villas Six Senses Uluwatu, Bali, Jalan Goa Lempeh, Uluwatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Six Senses Uluwatu, Bali)
Vibe: Honeymooners seeking privacy should opt for a cliff pool villa at Six Senses Uluwatu, Bali, which come with their own private plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers, and soaking tubs featuring impressive ocean views.
Price: Rates start at $660 per night.
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The Ritz-Carlton, Bali
Best Splurge The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, Sawangan, Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by The Ritz-Carlton, Bali)
Vibe: While his fabulous beachfront resort offers all sorts of accommodation options for honeymooners to choose from, the most romantic may be the one-bedroom Sky Villa that overlooks the ocean, complete with a private plunge pool and your very own Balinese-style terrace garden.Â
Price: Rates for a Sky Villa at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali will run you close to $1,000 a night, while regular room rates start around $350 a night.
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Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Best if You Want to Get Away From It All Four Seasons Resort Bali At Sayan, Jalan Raya Sayan, Sayan, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan)
Vibe: The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan is a better choice for those who want to explore the island but prefer a more tranquil, intimate sanctuary for their honeymoon. The riverside villas here look out to the Arung River while the expansive greenery features peaceful private pools.
Price: Be ready to fork over $1,000 or more a night for a riverside villa. Beachcombers may prefer the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay due to its proximity to the ocean (note that prices are similar there).
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Como Uma Canggu
Best for Health-Conscious Couples COMO Uma Canggu, Echo Beach, Jalan Pantai Batu Mejan, Canggu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Como Uma Canggu)
Vibe: Millennial honeymooners will love the ultra-hip vibe of Como Uma Canggu, where you can enjoy sunset cocktails at the buzzy Como Beach Club, work on wellness with daily fitness classes — there’s a jungle sports studio as well as yoga and pilates spaces — and try holistic healing treatments at the hotel’s health center, the Como Shambhala Retreat.Â
Price: Room rates start at just $175 a night, with suites from $250 a night.
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W Bali – Seminyak
Best Location W Bali - Seminyak, Seminyak, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by W Bali – Seminyak)
Vibe: For honeymooners craving a luxury getaway that’s close to all the action, W Bali – Seminyak is a great choice near all the fun in Seminyak. Many of the regular category rooms offer ocean views, while the Marvelous one-bedroom villas come with a cabana and private pool. Stay tuned for a second property, W Bali Ubud, which is slated to open later this year.
Price: Room rates start at about $300 or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.Â
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The Mulia – Nusa Dua, Bali
Best Boutique Hotel The Mulia, Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan Kawasan Sawangan Nusa Dua, Benoa, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by The Mulia – Nusa Dua, Bali)
Vibe: This all-suite boutique hotel offers personalized butler service and a private balcony with a Jacuzzi in every single suite. Of the five pools at The Mulia – Nusa Dua, Bali, the most iconic is the Oasis, an infinity pool lined by Balinese statues.
Price: Rates start at $350 a night.
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Airbnb: Hut Hideaway by the Balian River
Most Affordable West Selemadeg, Tabanan Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Airbnb)
Vibe: This hidden gem is located on the northern side of the island in West Selemadeg, and comes with an outdoor shower and tub. A quiet, rural getaway, the hut is for honeymooners in need of an escape from civilization. It’s situated on the banks of the beautiful Balian River and you can enjoy all the views from your private deck.Â
Price: Rates start at $40 per night.
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Airbnb: La Kabane Cabin on the Beach
Best Beachfront Cabin Nusa Lembongan, Jungutbatu, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Airbnb)
Vibe: This lovely Nusa Lembongan wooden beach cabin is located directly on the beach, featuring a private pool and stunning views of the sea as well as Mount Agung. This rustic-chic beach cabin also has an outdoor dining area and two private decks, one shaded and one sunny.Â
Price: Rates start at $170 a night.
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Airbnb: Zen Hideaway in Ubud
Most Zen Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Airbnb)
Vibe: This stunning teak-wood hut feels like a luxury treehouse, a perfect choice for honeymooners who want to immerse themselves in the jungle. Between the wooden deck, hammock, and shared jungle swing, you’ll never want to leave. And if you’re wondering why this vacation home looks oddly familiar, there’s a reason — it’s been featured on commercials for brands like GoPro and Oppo.Â
Price: Rates start at $200 a night.
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Best Restaurants & Bars in Bali
Vegetarians, vegans, and all-around healthy eaters will love Bali’s impressive culinary scene. Plan on raw food, smoothies, and other healthy fare for breakfast and lunch, then sunset cocktails and romantic dinners in the evening.
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Mozaic
Best for a Big Night Out Mozaic, Jalan Raya Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Mozaic)
Expect seasonal produce, creative cuisine, and extensive wine pairings in an intimate setting overlooking Ubud’s rice fields at fine-dining eatery Mozaic. Honeymooners can opt for the romantic private gazebo dinner experience, complete with rose petals and candles. Try one of the tasting menus, featuring items like coconut husk smoked beef brisket and pan-seared grouper in laksa leaves. Six-course tasting menus start at $50 per person and reservations should be made in advance.
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The Shady Shack Bali
Best for Vegans and Vegetarians The Shady Shack, Jalan Tanah Barak, Canggu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by The Shady Shack Bali)
For a laid-back breakfast or lunch, this rustic Canggu restaurant specializes in creative vegetarian and vegan cuisine. With menu items like cauliflower steaks, halloumi bowls, and kale power smoothies, healthy honeymooners should plan to dine at The Shady Shack Bali, which also offers all-day breakfasts. Lunch entrées start around $6 and smoothies at $3.Â
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Double-Six Rooftop Bar
Best Rooftop Bar Double-Six Rooftop - Sunset Bar, Jalan Pantai Legian Jalan Double Six, Seminyak, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Double-Six Rooftop Bar)
One of the largest rooftop bars in Bali, Double Six Rooftop Bar in Seminyak is the perfect place to admire a perfect Balinese sunset. Featuring live DJs and happy hour discounts, you and your love can relax in sunken sofas and sip cocktails as the sun goes down. Cocktail prices start at $7.
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Tapa
Most Romantic Dinner TAPA Bistro, Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan Jalan Nusa Dua, Benoa, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Tapa)
For an intimate, candlelit dinner of tapas for two, head to Tapa in Nusa Dua — if you’re staying nearby, contact the restaurant for complimentary pick-up service. Try the reef fish ceviche ($4) and the Balinese spiced beef satay ($5). Reservations should be made in advance.
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Samabe
Best Splurge Samabe Bali Suites & Villas, Barong - Barong Sawangan, Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Benoa, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Samabe)
For a romantic honeymoon dinner to remember, head to Samabe, where you can dine in a private cave on the beach. This gastronomic treat features a four-course menu, with options like lobster and tiger prawns served with quinoa and a welcome cocktail, from $350 per person. Make your reservations in advance.
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Room 4 Dessert
Best Dessert-Themed Restaurant Room 4 Dessert, Jalan Raya Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Room 4 Dessert)
This dinner-only restaurant pays homage to a singular concept: dessert. Even the savory dishes were inspired by dessert, and the restaurant’s onsite garden and lab allow diners to see exactly where their creative cuisine is coming from. The full tasting experience at Room 4 Dessert starts at $80 per person. Prepare for unique flavors such as black apple grass jelly or torched ginger flower with Balinese basil. Make sure you reserve your spot ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
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Bali Asli
Best Place for Lunch With a View Bali Asli Restaurant, Jl. Gelumpang, Karangasem, Karangasem Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Bali Asli)
Not only does Bali Asli, set at the foot of Mount Agung, have beautiful views of the volcano, it also offers a variety of culinary experiences such as street food tours, cooking classes, or trips to the village markets. Try a traditional Balinese five-course lunch, with menu items like Fisherman fresh sea fish satay, wrapped around bamboo sticks and cooked on wood-fired mud-brick stoves. Book your culinary experience in advance and plan to spend at least $55 on lunch for two.
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Sandy Bay Lembongan
Best Beach Club Sandy Bay, Jalan Sandy Bay, Lembongan, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
(Photo by Sandy Bay Lembongan)
This beach club in Nusa Lembongan is just a 30-minute boat ride from Bali — if you really want to party like a baller, it’s just 10 minutes by helicopter. Spend the day at Sandy Bay relaxing in the sun on loungers, taking a dip in the pool, eating lunch in the shade, and sipping happy hour cocktails. Lunch entrées start as low as $4, with cocktails from $8.
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Bottom Line
Bali isn’t easy to get to, but once you’re relaxing on those gorgeous windswept beaches or admiring the jungle from your private infinity pool, you’ll forget all about the crazy 20-hour travel adventure it took to get there. And whether you’re in the mood for vegan food, yoga and spirituality on a budget or Champagne and spa-treatment splurges — or a bit of both — Bali has something perfect for your honeymoon.
