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With a short 3 hour flight from Brisbane to New Zealand, there is plenty to do in a long weekend.
Have you got Bali on your mind? You’re not the only one.
In May 2023, 106,000 Australian tourists packed their bags for Bali, lured by its iconic beaches along the Bukit Peninsula, luxury villas in Seminyak, relaxing rainforests in Ubud and party scene in Kuta.
Bali is no doubt a stunning holiday destination, but there’s more to this 5,000 square kilometre paradise than its touristy drawcards.
Discover the serene side of Bali away from bustling crowds by venturing off the beaten path to hidden beaches and local villages that offer glimpses into the authentic Balinese way of life.
Ready to book? Here are seven destinations where you can enjoy all of Bali’s best features minus the crowds.
Munduk, North Bali
While the beaches are overflowing, you’ll find serenity, scenery, and adventure a plenty in the mountain town of Munduk, just a two-hours-drive from Canggu or three-hours from Ngurah Rai Airport. Much of Bali’s natural beauty hides in the mountains that surround Munduk, so pack your hiking boots to chase cascading falls and rolling views.
Add these waterfalls to the itinerary to take a refreshing dip and snap a new profile picture: Banyumala Twin Waterfalls (6km return hike) where the twin flows deliver double the beauty, Munduk Waterfall (5km return hike) where water flies over the 15-meter-high lip and Melanting Falls (2km return hike) that cascades with captivating power. Munduk has plenty of accommodation options, so take your pick of budget-friendly Airbnbs or indulge with a stay in a luxurious mountain villa.
Pemuteran, North Bali
Leave the crowds behind while still soaking up Balinese coastal charm in Pemuteran, a scenic four-hour drive from Denpasar International Airport. Pemuteran is known for its crowding of coral clusters and aquatic life straight off its shoreline rather than tourists on its beach, so add it to the itinerary for an intimate stay defined by aquatic adventures.
Bring your snorkel for a self-guided exploration of the Menjangan Marine Park or hop aboard a scuba tour to explore the 25+ diving sites flanked by colourful reefs. Not only do the local tours deliver an unforgettable marine adventure, but you’ll also learn about turtle conservation, reef reconstruction, and marine conservation from expert guides. After a day in the water, refuel on authentic Balinese cuisine and taste the catch of the day at locally run restaurants Sate Lilit and Nasi Campur.
Amed, East Bali
Comprised of 14km of quaint fishing villages dotted through lush jungle beside black sandy beaches, Amed in East Bali has an excess of tranquillity, rather than tourists.
As the perfect place to enjoy a Balinese immersion only 2 hours from the international airport, your days will consist of walking the black sands with turquoise water lapping at your toes, hiking along trails that arrive at cascading waterfalls, and donning the scuba tank to dive at some of East Bali’s best diving sites; underwater Pyramids around Ghost Bay and Jemeluk, and a 1942 Japanese Shipwreck.
For a day of drinking in Bali’s serene beach scene, take a trip to the neighbouring town of Tulamben and kick back on the shoreline to watch traditional fishing boats bring in their catch of the day.
Sidemen, East Bali
Catch a break from Aussie accents and immerse yourself in local life with a stay at Sidemen, East Bali. Where better to try a traditional bamboo hut and experience village life than in this small, stunning community, where scenes of rolling green rice fields and lush rainforest greet you from all sides?
Take in the beauty of Mount Agung, a huge volcano and the highest point in Bali, which stands proud in the distance as you wander the rice fields, learn about traditional life, and meet the friendly locals. You can find this charming village just 1.5 hours drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
Padangbai, East Bali
As the gateway to the various Lesser Sunda Islands, Padangbai is a cruisy village hugging the eastern coast of Bali. Padangbai holds plenty of activities in its own right to entertain adventure addicts, as well as cosy and luxurious accommodations to give serenity seekers a restful break.
With a stay in Padangbai, you’re signing up for a holiday in a laid-back atmosphere, complimented by tasty local dining options just 1.5 hours from the international airport. To make the most of this Padangbai’s surroundings, make a splash in crystal blue waters with a day spent at the beach, or head for the hinterland which houses local temples such as the 11th-century Silayukti Temple overlooking the island’s shoreline.
Penglipuran Village, East Bali
With ornate houses, temples, statues, and archways greeting you at every corner, the mountain village of Penglipuran is a feast for the eyes. Penglipuran Village is well renowned for its striking appearance and while many visit briefly on a temple tour, an overnight stay is the best way to experience true immersion in the traditional Balinese way of life.
As you wander through the village’s narrow paths, you can witness traditional ceremonies, explore intricate temples, and try the traditional cuisine. Surrounding the village, you’ll find bamboo forests and coffee plantations, perfect for retreating to with a book for some fresh air.
Located two hours from Ngurah Rai International Airport you can easily make a day trip possible If you don’t have time to fit in an overnight stay, Penglipuran is often included as a stop on Besakih Temple tours.
Nusa Dua, South Bali
Adding a touch of urban paradise to this list of must-visit Bali destinations, Nusa Dua has an exciting resort scene, while not feeling overcrowded.
This southern haven offers world-class surf beaches, ample activities to entertain the kids and resorts that deliver luxury for those wanting a deluxe Bali getaway without travelling too far. You’ll find Nusa Dua less than 30 minutes from the bustling Kuta, which means one podcast separates you from stepping off the plane and star-fishing on a comfy bed in a five-star resort.
For our adventure seekers, join a day tour that departs from Nusa Dua that’ll have you hiking to waterfalls, perfecting your tan on the beach, and exploring traditional temples. Prepare for your body to feast as much as your eyes, Nusa Dua is packed with incredible food options from small family restaurants to indulgent fine dining serving mouth-watering Balinese cuisine.
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