The best places to visit in Bali for solo travellers

Beautiful Bali is a lush paradise for solo travellers thanks to its rich turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and abundance of ancient temples. It’s also a safe country to travel in, with plenty of friendly locals to offer help and directions along the way. There’s a wide range of cultural trips, activities and things to do in Bali for those travelling alone. It’s also an easy spot to meet other like-minded travellers.

But where to stay solo in Bali? And what is there to explore as a solo traveller? While the coast is tempting, you’ll be missing out on a lot of what Bali has to offer if you don’t venture inland to the rice terraces, waterfalls and mountainous regions around Ubud, too.

Where to stay solo in Bali

Whether you’re looking for a mountain getaway or a coastal retreat, there are plenty of places to explore in Bali for solo travellers. As part of our solo group trip to Bali, we take hundreds of single adventurers to the Indonesian island every year, giving us a wealth of experience on what to see and do and where to stay. Here are a few of our favorite spots.

Bedugul

The picturesque landscape of Bedugul makes it one of the best places in Bali for solo travellers. And, while the coastlines of Bali are a huge tourist draw, you would be missing out if you didn’t venture inland. Nestled amidst idle volcanoes and majestic mountains, you’ll find Bedugul, a lake resort offering welcome relief from the high coastal temperatures thanks to the cool mountain air. Much of Bedugul’s draw is centred around its three crater lakes; Bratan, Tamblingan and Buyan Lake. Dotted with exotic temples and hidden amongst lush landscape, it’s a great spot to break away from the crowds.

The most popular thing to do in Bedugul is visit the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan water temple. A major Shaivite Hindu temple, it’s located on the shores of Lake Bratan and, when the conditions are right, it appears to float on the surface. Colourful flowers adorn the sacred site and the botanical gardens are next door.

Explore more of Bedugul’s lush landscape at Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, where undulating slopes and shimmering rice fields gleam under the Balinese sun. Take an afternoon to peruse the fields and learn why the irrigation methods used are so unique to the island.

Ubud

Ubud lies in the uplands of Bali and is the island’s cultural heart, where history and tradition merge with sustainability, design and delicious gastronomy. From rice fields to dance festivals, Ubud is a richly colourful town that has, despite progression, maintained its roots. The relaxed nature of Ubud makes it one of the best places in Bali for solo travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, also known as Ubud Monkey Forest, is a sanctuary to more than 600 long-tailed Balinese macaques. Heading into the lush green jungle, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot the macaques and explore the temples.

In the same area is Mount Batur, an active volcano situated in the middle of two concentric calderas. It’s one of Bali’s most sacred mountains. It is possible to take on the two-hour climb but it’s best attempted before sunrise where the cool mountain air will awaken your senses and starlit skies still stretch out in front of you. Your early start will be rewarded with spectacular sunrise views from the volcano’s summit.

Gili Islands

For a slice of paradise, head to the Gili Islands, where palm-tree lined white sand beaches meet rich turquoise waters. The islands’ laid-back lifestyle also makes the Gilis one of the best places for solo travellers in Bali. Made up of three islands, each with their own distinct personality, the Gili’s offer a variety of draws. Partygoers should head to Gili Trawangan, with its buzzing nightlife and host of upscale restaurants, while Gili Air balances out raucousness with rest, and Gili Meno has the most authentic Balinese character.

Gili Trawangan’s bustling night market lures tourists away from the bars to sample incredible Balinese delicacies. There are plenty of budget options for dining, with seafood dishes particularly popular. And, while there’s plenty of choice, the best tip is to look for the stalls busy with locals for the best dishes.

Seeing the Gili Islands from land is great, but venture beneath the surface of the enticing turquoise waters to see them from a whole different perspective. Snorkelling is a great way to explore the nearby forests of coral reefs and the mysterious underwater statues that the Gili Islands are known for.

Candi Dasa

Candi Dasa is a beautiful seaside town situated on the edge of a freshwater lagoon, with a treasure trove of hidden beaches and Balinese temples. It’s also home to a number of luxurious hotels, complete with infinity pools and beautiful surroundings. For solo travellers looking to switch off, Candi Dasa is an ideal spot for some relaxation.

One of Candi Dasa’s well-known landmarks is Lotus Lagoon, where vast swathes of the water’s surface are adorned with bright pink and fuschia lotus flowers. They’re at their most spectacular in full bloom, but the vivid greens of the lily pads are beautiful at other times of the year, too.

Lempuyang Temple (also known as the Gates of Heaven), set atop Mount Lempuyang, is one of the oldest temples in Bali. Its huge significance to Balinese culture and religion means you’ll often see local Balinese families visiting in full ceremonial attire.

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is a relatively undeveloped island situated southeast of Bali and is a dreamy spot for solo travellers. Still largely undiscovered by tourists, it is the idyllic spot to explore the local flora and fauna. On Nusa Penida, you’ll trade tourist hubs for a slower pace of life and quiet exploration.

Search out the secluded Kelingking beach, where white sand and crystal-clear waters are cuddled by a cliff and lush headland. The price of reaching this piece of paradise is a 400m rugged hike, but the views before you even touch the sand are worth the trip alone.

For the more adventurous beach-goers, Crystal Bay is home to some of the islands biggest waves. Grab a surfboard or explore underwater on a snorkelling trip, before grabbing a beachside drink and taking in the beauty of the secluded ocean cove.

Jimbaran

Skip the tourist hotspot of Kuta and head a little further south to the small fishing village of Jimbaran, where you’ll find long sandy beaches, fish restaurants galore and a backdrop of tropical forest. Towards the north of Jimbaran, the shores are dotted with colourful boats bringing the catch of the day to the Kedonganan fish market. If you fancy trying to catch dinner yourself, local fishing boat tours are great for finding marlin, Spanish mackerel and ruby snapper.

Garuda Wisnu Kencana is an artistic cultural park and home to a colossal statue of the Hindu Gods, Vishnu and Garuda. Climb to the top of a limestone hill to see the stonework artistry close-up. Make sure you time your visit for 5 pm when a daily Balinese parade takes place.

At Jimbaran Bay, simple yet spectacular seafood is the norm. A plethora of fish restaurants reside on the beach, many offering it freshly barbecued. Grab a spot at sundown to feast on fresh fish, while taking in a jaw-dropping Balinese sunset.

Canggu

This stretch of land between Kerobokan and Echo Beach is filled with villas and casual cafes, attracting travellers looking for a relaxed pace of life. Once just a tiny village overlooking the Indian Ocean, Canggu has developed into a prime hub thanks to the surrounding lush rice fields and, if you head a little further out, long stretches of sandy beaches.

Another striking spot is Batu Bolong Beach, popular with those looking to surf its waves. You can easily rent equipment from the plethora of surf shops, too.

Tanah Lot is probably one of the most photographed temples in Bali. Translating to earth and sea, it sits on a rock formation overlooking the water. It’s also one of the seven sea temples located on the coast of Bali to have been featured in Balinese mythology.

Denpasar

Bali’s capital, Denpasar, can seem a daunting and chaotic place at first, but spend time wandering the tree-lined streets of the affluent Renon district and you’ll discover it’s calmer side.

Don’t overlook a trip to the vast Bajra Sandhi Monumen, dedicated to Balinese people and a centrepiece of Niti Mandala Renon park. It features dioramas of historical events, including a portrayal of the 1906 battle with the Dutch. From the top of the spiral stairs,  you’ll also be treated to 360-degree views of the surrounding city.

Sakenan Temple also plays a very important role in Hindu-Balinese culture. Historically, people have pilgrimaged by wooden boat or on foot to visit the sacred site during the Piodalan festival. Little has changed about the gathering over the years, meaning it’s an fantastic opportunity to see an important part of Balinese culture.

Things to do as a solo traveller in Bali

From exploring ancient temples to learning to surf, there are plenty of things to do for solo travelers in Bali. Here are some of the best…

Enjoy spiritual bathing in Ubud

Travellers come from all over to explore Bali’s Tirta Empul Temple. Dating back to 926 AD, the Tirta Empul Temple is renowned for its holy springs, believed to have been created by the god Indra. And, while the temple remains a sacred place of worship for locals, visitors are welcomed too. Enter through the temple’s outer courtyard, or jaba sisi, before exploring the inner courtyard and the main  temple where the holy springs reside. The blessed holy waters provide the opportunity to experience the Melukat ritual, a sacred purification where visitors clean and purify their body, mind and soul.

Check out Bali’s surf scene

With pristine beaches and a favourable climate, Bali is one of the best places in the world to learn to surf. Within Bali, there are countless surf sports which cater to all abilities, from budding surfing enthusiasts to seasoned professionals. And, the waters are beautifully warm so it won’t be a shock if you fall in.

Take a lesson in flying yoga

Bali is a region known for its spirituality, so where better to try out flying yoga? An energetic twist on the traditional practice of yoga, you’ll be suspended above the ground, supported by slings and hammocks as you manoeuvre from one yoga position to another. It’s also surprisingly social, making it a great way to forge new connections as a solo traveller in Bali.

Take a walk along Campuhan Ridge

Considered to be one of the best walks in Ubud, the Campuhan Ridge walk is a must do on your solo visit to Bali. The paved path leads you past some of the most breathtaking views of Bali. Depending on the time of day, you might also catch a glimpse of the locals tending to the terraced fields below.

While the trail is a short 2.5km round trip, it is quite exposed and can get very hot. Instead, set out early morning to beat the heat.

Ready for your next adventure? Try group solo travel in Bali with Flash Pack – designed exclusively for people in their 30s and 40s, seeking the independence of solo travel within the safety of a group.

A cool 98% of Flashpackers arrive solo to join our group adventures. So, you’ll be in good company – whether a first time solo traveller or a seasoned pro looking for like-minded new friends.

Images: Flash Pack and Unsplash