Bali is one of the most beloved destinations in the world — a place where ancient temples, world-class beaches, lush landscapes, and rich traditions come together in one beautiful island. If you’re visiting Bali for the first time, it’s normal to feel excited and a little overwhelmed. There’s so much to see, so much to do, and so many details travelers wish they knew earlier.
This guide breaks everything down into simple, practical tips that will help you travel smarter, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy Bali with confidence.
1. Know the Basics Before You Arrive
Visa & Entry Requirements
Most visitors can enter Bali with a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or e-VOA, valid for 30 days. You can apply online before landing or waiting in line at the airport. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
For a full breakdown of visa options and who qualifies, see our complete guide to Bali visa requirements.
Bali Tourist Tax
Starting in 2024, Bali introduced a tourist tax for international visitors. The fee is small and meant to support conservation and cultural preservation. It can be paid online before your trip or upon arrival. We’ve explained the new policy in our step-by-step Bali tourist tax article.
Travel Insurance Is Highly Recommended
Many travelers skip this, but Bali’s activities — surfing, scooter riding, island hopping — make travel insurance extremely useful. Get a plan that covers:
- Medical emergencies
- Lost luggage
- Scooter accidents
- Adventure activities
Even a basic plan is better than none.
2. Best Time to Visit Bali
Bali has two main seasons:
Dry Season (April–October)
- Best weather: sunny, low humidity
- Ideal for beaches, hiking, and diving
- High season for tourism
Wet Season (November–March)
- More rain, but still plenty of sunshine
- Fewer crowds
- Better hotel deals
- Surfing season in certain areas
If you want perfect weather and don’t mind busier spots, choose the dry season. If you prefer quiet and cheaper rates, the wet season works great too.
3. Where to Stay in Bali (Based on Your Travel Style)
Bali isn’t just one destination — each region has a different vibe. For first-timers:
Ubud – Culture, Nature, Tranquility
Ideal for: yoga lovers, culture seekers, waterfalls, rice terraces
Expect: art markets, temples, eco-resorts, healing retreats
Seminyak – Stylish, Fun, Upscale
Ideal for: nightlife, dining, beach clubs
Expect: boutique villas, trendy cafés, shopping
Canggu – Surf, Cafés, Digital Nomads
Ideal for: surfers, young travelers, remote workers
Expect: hip cafés, co-working spaces, laid-back vibe
Uluwatu – Cliffs, Surf, Sunsets
Ideal for: beach lovers, surfers, honeymooners
Expect: cliffside villas, beach clubs, dramatic views
Nusa Dua – Relaxed, Family-Friendly
Ideal for: families, luxury travelers
Expect: calm beaches, large resorts, great security
Sanur – Peaceful, Older Couples, Long Stays
Ideal for: calm holidays, slow pace
Expect: quiet beachfront, bike paths, sunrise views
Each area offers something different — choose based on your travel style, not just popularity.
For hotel and villa options across the island, see our Bali accommodation directory.
4. Money, ATMs & Payments
Cash is still important
Even though Bali is modern, many warungs (small eateries), drivers, and local markets still accept cash only.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available, but follow these tips:
- Choose machines in banks or malls (Safer, less card-skimming risk)
- Avoid machines with loose card slots
- Decline “Dynamic Currency Conversion” — always charge in IDR
Cards & Digital Payments
Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept:
- Credit cards
- Apple Pay / Google Pay
- QRIS (Indonesia’s universal QR system)
Still, don’t rely 100% on cards.
5. How to Get Around Bali
Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps
The easiest and safest way to get around:
- Grab
- Gojek
- Bluebird (official taxi company)
Always use the blue-and-white Bluebird taxis — others copy their branding.
Scooter Rentals
Scooters are popular because:
- Cheap
- Convenient
- Fast in traffic
But only ride a scooter if:
- You have experience
- You wear a helmet
- You have an International Driving Permit (IDP)
- You have insurance that covers scooter accidents
Otherwise, stick to taxis — it’s safer.
Private Drivers
Hiring a driver for the day is common and surprisingly affordable (typically USD $60–$80 for 8 hours). It’s perfect for:
- Waterfalls
- Beaches
- Temples
- Multi-stop day trips
6. Internet & Staying Connected
Getting an eSIM or local SIM makes your trip easier. Options include:
- Ubigi
- Airalo
- Telkomsel (local SIM)
- XL Axiata (local SIM)
eSIM is the easiest — no need to visit a store.
Internet speed is fast in popular areas, but may drop in remote spots or islands.
For recommended providers and setup tips, check our Bali SIM card and eSIM guide.
7. Cultural Etiquette You Should Know
The Balinese people are warm, respectful, and deeply rooted in their traditions. Being polite goes a long way.
Dress Modestly at Temples
- Shoulders covered
- Knees covered
- Sarongs are usually provided
Don’t Touch People’s Heads
In Balinese culture, the head is sacred.
Use Your Right Hand
When giving or receiving items, use your right hand, not left.
Don’t Step on Canang Sari Offerings
You’ll see small offerings on the ground — avoid stepping over them.
Be Patient
The pace is slower, traffic can be heavy — rushing doesn’t help.
8. Safety Tips for First-Time Visitors
Traffic Is Busy — Be Cautious
The roads can be chaotic for newcomers. If you’re unsure about scooters, don’t rent one.
Ocean Currents Can Be Strong
Some beaches have strong currents and rip tides:
- Kuta
- Seminyak
- Canggu
Swim near red/yellow flags where lifeguards are present.
Be Careful with Monkeys
Places like Uluwatu Temple and the Monkey Forest are home to mischievous monkeys.
Keep your: sunglasses, phones, bags, and food secure.
- Sunglasses
- Phones
- Bags
- Food
- secure.
Don’t Drink Tap Water
Always drink bottled or filtered water.
9. What to Pack for Bali
You don’t need much, but a few items will make your trip smoother.
Essentials
- Light clothing
- Swimsuits
- Sandals
- Sneakers for walking
- Sunscreen (expensive in Bali)
- Mosquito repellent
- Power bank
- Portable raincoat (during wet season)
- Travel adapter
If You Plan Adventure Activities
- Water shoes
- Dry bag
- GoPro
- Hiking shoes
For Temple Visits
- Sarong
- Light scarf or shawl
10. Food, Drinking Water & Health Tips
Eat Local, But Choose Wisely
Bali offers an incredible range of food, from warungs to fine dining and beach cafés.
To avoid “Bali belly,” choose:
- Fresh-looking places
- Busy warungs
- Spots with good hygiene
Avoid:
- Raw seafood in cheap stalls
- Ice in questionable places
Drink Bottled or Refillable Water Only
Tap water is not safe to drink. Most hotels provide jugs of filtered water.
Café Culture Is Big
Expect amazing:
- Smoothie bowls
- Fresh juices
- Specialty coffee
- Fusion dishes
11. Popular Scams to Avoid
Most visits are trouble-free, but be aware of common scams:
Overpriced or Fake Taxis
Use Grab, Gojek, or Bluebird only.
Money Changer Scams
Choose authorized money changers (usually with “Authorized Money Changer” signage).
Temple “Guides” Who Aren’t Real Guides
Some people pretend to be official guides and ask for forced fees.
Scooter Damage Scams
Take photos of the scooter before you rent it. Use reputable rental shops.
12. Must-See Places for First-Time Visitors
Here are classic Bali highlights that are worth visiting:
Temples
- Tanah Lot
- Uluwatu Temple
- Tirta Empul
- Besakih Temple (Mother Temple)
Nature & Waterfalls
- Tegenungan Waterfall
- Sekumpul Waterfall
- Mount Batur sunrise hike
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Beaches
- Balangan
- Padang Padang
- Melasti
- Nusa Dua Beach
Cultural Experiences
- Traditional dance shows
- Wood carving villages
- Local markets
Island Trips
- Nusa Penida
- Nusa Lembongan
- Gili Islands (via Lombok)
13. How Much to Budget
Bali can be affordable or luxurious — depending on how you travel.
Backpackers ($40–$60/day)
- Hostels or budget rooms
- Warungs and street food
- Scooters and ride-hailing apps
Mid-Range Travelers ($70–$150/day)
- Comfortable hotels or villas
- Mix of cafés and restaurants
- Private drivers
Luxury Travelers ($200+/day)
- High-end villas
- Spa days
- Fine dining
- Beach clubs
14. Respect the Environment
Bali struggles with waste management, so travelers can help by:
- Bringing a refillable bottle
- Avoiding single-use plastics
- Not littering
- Supporting eco-friendly businesses
If you visit beaches early morning, you might notice plastic washed ashore. It’s normal after storms, but still a reminder to help protect paradise.
15. Practical Day-to-Day Tips
These small tips will make your trip smoother:
Don’t Try to Do Too Much
Distances in Bali look short on the map — but traffic can be slow.
Pick one or two major activities per day.
Download Useful Apps
- Grab / Gojek (transport, food delivery)
- Google Maps
- XE Currency
- WhatsApp (everyone uses it in Bali)
Carry Some Cash Daily
ATMs can sometimes be far from remote beaches or waterfalls.
Sun Is Strong
You can get sunburned quickly — apply sunscreen often.
Stay Hydrated
It’s humid, and you’ll sweat more than usual.
16. Final Advice for First-Time Visitors
Bali is a place where the best experiences often come from slowing down — morning walks in rice fields, sunset beaches, calm temple visits, meeting locals, or simply relaxing at your villa.
Don’t worry about making your itinerary perfect. Bali has a natural way of giving you exactly what you need — rest, adventure, or inspiration.
Enjoy the island, respect the culture, and travel with an open heart. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories (and probably start planning your next visit before you even fly home).
