In the past decade or two, Bali has become one of the most popular travel destinations—and justifiably so! With such a rich heritage and culture, beautiful landscapes, white sand beaches with surf waves and snorkeling points, Bali definitely deserves the hype.
If you are visiting during the peak season, Bali can feel overcrowded, with traffic congestions and busy attractions. But what if we tell you it doesn’t have to be that way? In this Borderline Nomad guide, we will let you in on the islands’ secret locations, where you can be away from the crowd and witness a raw side of Bali.
So, let the journey to the hidden gems of Bali begin!
Melanting Waterfall
Location: Google Maps
Located in Munduk village in the northern part of Bali, a trek through lush forests will take you to this offbeat 20-meter high waterfall: Melanting Waterfall. The trek to the waterfall is a journey in itself as you pass through clove and coffee plantations with the sound of the gushing waterfall at a distance.
You can choose to trek to the waterfall yourself or take a local guide with you, but it is important to note that if you trek to the Melanting Waterfall yourself, navigation can be a bit tricky. Additionally, you will require a good fitness level and comfortable shoes to trek to the waterfall and back, so make sure you are well prepared!
Note: If you are visiting Melanting Waterfall, it is worth it to check out Munduk Waterfall as well since they are located adjacent to each other.
Sidemen Rice Terraces
Location: Google Maps
Visiting the rice terraces is a staple for tourists in Bali, but you should know that the rice terraces around Ubud are highly populated with tourists, especially during the peak tourist season. You might not enjoy the beauty of these rice terraces with so many people around.
If you agree, Sidemen rice terraces is the perfect location for you! You can trek through the rice terraces, cross rivers, pass local villages with a backdrop of Mount Agung, and have the best time in nature.
Note: The trek requires a moderate fitness level and is not the only way to enjoy the Sidemen Rice Terraces. You can visit cafes and restaurants overlooking the rice terrace for serene rice terrace views in Sidemen.
Mei Silver Jewelry Making in Sidemen
Website: Mei Silver Sidemen
When visiting Bali with your friends and family, what is a better bonding activity than creating matching jewelry from scratch? Through this 3-hour workshop guided by a master silversmith, you will learn about the hands-on process and intricate techniques of making silver jewelry.
When you are done with the workshop, you will take a souvenir with you that will hold so many memories of your Bali trip, so if you ask me, this activity is 100% worth it!
Note: This mention is not sponsored; Borderline Nomad believes in supporting local businesses!
Red Coral Waterfall
Location: Google Maps
Another waterfall in the Munduk area is the Red Coral Waterfall! You can either do the full Munduk Waterfall Trail or choose to just trek to the Red Coral Waterfall to witness the tall single-drop waterfall that towers over the lush greenery of northern Bali. If you have a moderate fitness level and comfortable shoes on, you will be able to complete this 650-meter trek and enjoy this offbeat waterfall.
Note: There is an entrance fee of about 45,000 IDR to visit Red Coral Waterfall, so make sure you have some cash with you.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Location: Google Maps
Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is one of the most picturesque Hindu temples in Bali! Even though it is not exactly a ‘hidden gem,’ a lot of tourists skip the temple as it is about a 2-hour drive from Ubud and Canggu. If you are planning to visit other attractions around the area, like Munduk Waterfalls and Gitgit Waterfall, you should strongly consider visiting this beautiful Bali temple.
Gili Putih Island
Location: Google Maps
The north of Bali is well known for its mountains and waterfalls, but did you know there is a stunning little island called Gili Putih? During the low tide, you can take a 10-minute boat ride to this island and get to this secluded island.
It is best to visit the island in the morning for a peaceful walk or to click some photos for your Instagram feed. The coral reefs of Gili Putih offer an amazing snorkeling experience, too. So, if you are in the northern part of Bali and need a peaceful day by the sea, add this island to your Bali itinerary!
Mount Batukaru Trek
Location: Google Maps
Are you an adventurous soul? Climbing the 2nd highest peak of Bali is the perfect off-beat activity for you, as the trek is not crowded at all! Located in Tabanan, the trail is 5.8km (3.6 miles) long and takes around 4 hours to complete. As you reach the top of Mount Batukaru, you will witness the beautiful landscape of Bali, and on the return journey, you will walk through the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces while embracing this peaceful, spiritual journey through the mountain.
Note: This trek is a challenging one and is for people with high fitness levels, so make sure you are well-informed about the route before planning your trip to Mount Batukaru.
NusaBay Menjangan by WHM
Have you ever stayed in a resort in the middle of a national park? If your answer is no, you will love NusaBay Menjangan, located in West Bali National Park! Your journey to the resort starts as you get on a complimentary boat from Labuan Lalang to the resort’s jetty. Once you reach the resort, you will be spoiled with the perfect secluded luxury island lifestyle!
With amenities like a spa, restaurants serving delicious food, and a swimming pool, you will never be bored on the property! If you want to spend time in nature, the resort provides activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, jungle cycling, and more!
Does it sound too good to be true? Book your stay at NusaBay Menjangan and experience the finest Bali has to offer!
Menjangan Island
Location: Google Maps
Menjangan Island is the best hidden gem for those who love to snorkel and scuba dive! Located in the northwestern tip of Bali and a part of West Bali National Park Conservation Area, the island is covered by secluded white sand beaches, pristine coral reefs and diving spots that will leave anyone in awe.
With so many diving and snorkeling spots with gentle currents, you will witness diverse marine life and reefs! So, are you ready for the ultimate underwater adventure at Menjangan Island?
Ubud River Rafting
Book the activity: Ayung River Rafting
Not exactly a ‘hidden gem,’ but this river rafting experience is a must if you are visiting Ubud on your Bali trip! The river rafting journey takes you through Bali’s lush forests and waterfalls with gentle to moderate rapids. The rafting trip lasts about 2 hours and includes safety gear like helmets and life jackets, and most providers also offer a lunch after the river adventure. So, do you dare to embark on Ubud’s rafting adventure?
Note: Although river rafting is suitable for beginners during the dry season, river conditions can become challenging during the wet season. So, make sure to plan the activity accordingly!
USAT Liberty Wreck
Location: Google Maps
Just off the black sand beach in Tulamben, Bali, lies a time capsule – the USAT Liberty Shipwreck. This United States Army cargo ship was hit by a torpedo in 1942, and now it sits in shallow water close to the shore, making it perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. The ship is covered in colorful corals and is home to thousands of fish, including tiny seahorses and jackfish.
What makes this site particularly great for beginners is that the water is absolutely clear and parts of the wreck are just 4 metres deep, which means that you can see the wreck without diving deep into the water! The deepest parts of the wreck are 30 meters deep, so experienced divers will have a great opportunity to see the wreck up close.
Note: Like any diving site in Bali, the water at this site can get choppy at times. If you are a beginner, we recommend booking a snorkeling tour for the safest experience.
Japanese Wreck
Location: Google Maps
Another snorkeling location on the east coast of Bali is the Japenese Shipwreck Point. If you are a beginner looking for a quieter snorkeling site, this site where a Japanese patrol boat sank during World War 2 is the perfect location for you!
What’s best about this snorkeling point is the beginner-friendly gentle currents, beautiful corals, and diverse marine life that has reclaimed this wreck. This shipwreck is right off the beach as well, making it accessible to everyone.
Note: Even if this snorkeling point is beginner-friendly, the waves can get choppy at times so it is recommended to hire a professional guide for the safest experience!
Batur Jeep Point
For those seeking the breathtaking sunrise of Mount Batur without the challenging trek, the Mount Batur Jeep Ride offers the perfect alternative. Starting in the early morning before sunrise, 4×4 vehicles will take you on a bumpy but fun ride up the volcano’s slopes, reaching exclusive viewpoints inaccessible to regular traffic.
Unlike the 2-3 hour-long moderate to advanced trek with a huge crowd, jeep passengers arrive fresh and well-rested, avoiding the rush, which is especially important for people looking for a serene view without the hassle of a trek.
Apurva Kempinski Bali
Sitting high on the cliffs of Nusa Dua, The Apurva Kempinski Bali looks like a modern palace by the sea. This hotel shows Indonesia’s luxurious side with its architecture and has beautiful rooms, suites, and villas with private pools and views of the sea. Moreover, the hotel offers six restaurants and bars, a traditional Balinese spa, a 60-meter infinity pool, and a private beach!
For travelers who want luxury, culture, and access to a beautiful beach all in one place, The Apurva Kempinski Bali gives you an unforgettable Bali experience that feels both fancy and truly Indonesian.
Starbucks Kintamani
Location: Google Maps
High up in the village of Kintamani lies one of the world’s most breathtaking Starbucks locations! The Starbucks Kintamani offers much more than your typical cafe experience, treating you with dazzling views of Mount Batur, an active volcano and the Batur Lake. And unlike the standard Starbucks you find in cities, this location embraces local architecture and offers special Indonesian coffee blends, including beans grown in the volcanic soil of the very mountains you are admiring. This is a must-visit if you’re in Kintamani!
Black Lava Camp & Cafe
Looking for a luxury glamping experience? You will love everything about Black Lava Camp & Cafe!
Located in Kintamani, Bali, this hotel offers breathtaking views of Mount Agung and the nature surrounding the hotel. It offers all the luxurious amenities, including a swimming pool with the perfect backdrop, its own cafe with delicious food and beverages, and suites for the perfect glamping experience! So, are you ready for the perfect retreat with one of the best hotel views Bali has to offer?
Nunggalan Beach
Location: Google Maps
Nunggalan Beach sits hidden away in Bali’s southern Peninsula, offering a stretch of golden sand with an Instagram-famous shipwreck that rests dramatically on its shore. Reaching Nunggalan Beach requires a 20-30 minute trek through the forest path and steep stairs, keeping crowds at bay. Unlike other developed beaches, Nunggalan Beach offers very few facilities, and travellers should carry their own water and supplies.
Nunggalan Beach is also a popular surfing destination among experienced surfers due to the powerful waves. If you are looking for a tucked-away beach near Uluwatu, we promise that the short trek to Nunggalan Beach is worth it!
So this was the ultimate guide you needed when looking for hidden gems in Bali!
While Bali has become a crowded tourist destination, especially during its dry season, it still offers experiences and locations that amaze the tourists who seek tranquility, culture, and untouched natural beauty.
If you visit any of these locations, comment down on our Pins to let us know!
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