Bali, Bali, Bali. I don’t know about you, but I can barely open Instagram without seeing a reel or post about Bali. Whether hyping a day club in Seminyak, a new restaurant with rave reviews in Canggu or the latest place to reach enlightenment in Ubud. Seeing how Southern Bali has exploded over the past 15-20 years has been remarkable. Bali is known for its pristine beaches, cultural and spiritual sites, rice terraces, health and wellness scene, yoga, nightlife and adventure activities (to name a few). The question is ~ can you experience Bali without the crowds?
Southern Bali has the most populated cities as they are the closest to the island’s only airport, DPS. With all this buzz, these cities have become quite touristy and traffic-heavy. I want to help you enjoy your time in Bali with more tranquility and peace. The answer is YES! In this article, I will share 5 unforgettable ways to experience Bali without the crowds!
Let’s back it up a little. My first trip to Bali was 15 years ago. I have wanted to revisit ever since but have been waiting for the pull or reason to return. Fast forward to the present day, my expat friend, who has lived in Bali for the past 4 years invited me to visit. I pondered briefly, then decided to scratch my Mexico plans and head west! Upon arriving, we visited some of the well-known cities in Southern Bali (Sanur, Canggu, Seminyak & Ubud). I was SHOCKED by the traffic, crowds and overall feeling of being surrounded by tourists. The traffic in Ubud mid-day reminded me of being in LA. Although I had swapped bumpers and AC for a scooter and direct sun. Uff 🥵
Lucky for me, my friend knows the lay of the land. During my 6 week visit, we did many activities off the beaten path. I am excited to share my top 5 ways to experience Bali without the crowds. They are SO memorable, let’s dive right in!
5 Unforgettable Experiences in Bali
The first of our 5 unforgettable experiences in Bali is Hidden Canyon. Then, we will gradually head east to a one-of-a-kind resort, my favorite waterfall, Sideman and Blue Lagoon. I traveled to all these activities by scooter. If you aren’t comfortable on a scooter or are traveling with a bigger group, you can rent a car, use Gojek or Grab (Bali’s equivalent to Uber) or hire a local driver.
1. Hidden Canyon
Hidden Canyon is located in the Sukawati area, 9 miles outside Sanur. It’s a long stretch of stunning natural rock formations featuring narrow, winding pathways carved by a river running through the dramatic cliffs. We signed up for this adventurous trek, which involved wading through water, climbing over rocks, swimming, hiking and navigating slippery paths. The canyon is encircled by a flourishing jungle, providing shade and a serene and stunning environment.
After the canyon, you walk to the starting point through the lush surrounding rice fields. As the terrain is unfamiliar, you must trek with a guide. Our tickets were about $12 per person, which included the trek and a beverage + snack at their lovely garden cafe. Plan on spending about 3 hours at Hidden Canyon.
I’m such a fan of adventures that include a workout – it’s a win-win! This is the perfect group activity, so grab your friends and head to Hidden Canyon for a refreshing, active, and unique experience.
2. Standing Stone Restaurant
My buddy and I learned about Standing Stone Restaurant while visiting our local Balinese friend who has been a tour guide for 20+ years. He casually said ~ Standing Stone is 5 minutes away on the beach. We had no idea what he was talking about, so he offered to take us there.
This restaurant is inside The Royal Purnama Art Suites and Villas in Sukawati, Gianyar. The resort is on Purnama Beach, known for its full moon ceremonies. Purnama means ‘full moon’ in Indonesia. These ceremonies often involve offerings, prayers, music, and dances.
Upon entering, it was clear this was a luxury 5-star resort for adults. The cool thing is they allow you to visit the restaurant even if you are not staying on-site ~ what a treat! The property blew me away. From the perfectly manicured tree tunnel to the common areas, the tasteful and eclectic restaurant decor, the huge standing stones just past the bar, to the tasteful Hindu adornments and statues perfectly placed around the property.
Standing stone is a visual masterpiece. Come for happy hour + sunset and prepare to be amazed. If you want a luxurious, private, romantic stay off the beaten path, this is your spot!
Pro Tip ~ I suggest checking out Masa Masa while you are in this area. This restaurant and vibrant cultural venue is renowned for its delicious food and drinks, lively atmosphere and regular live music featuring both local and international talent. You will enjoy browsing their vast collection of highly curated, shoppable goods from around the world. When I visited Masa Masa, I felt like I had stepped back in time.
3. Sumampan Waterfall
I don’t know about you, but when I think of islands, I think of waterfalls. If you ever Google search for a waterfall in Bali, you will be astounded by how many there are to trek to. My friend planned a day exploring two waterfalls. He first showed me a touristy waterfall (Tegenungan) and then a local waterfall (Sumampan) so I could see the difference.
We hooked a left off the main Highway onto Sutami. A feeling swept over me while driving this road. It filled my soul with peace and calmness. Rice fields and palm trees lined the street, along with villas and restaurants here and there. It felt like Bali ‘back in the day’.
Our first stop was at Tegenungan Waterfall. We entered through a touristy street lined with vendors. As we descended the steps to the waterfall, I noticed the huge day club and beautiful restaurant to my left. This was a bit too commercial for me. I go to waterfalls to be rattled by nature, not to sit at perfectly air-conditioned restaurants. Regardless, the waterfall was beautiful, and I was happy to experience it!
About 10 minutes north lies Sumampan Waterfall. You will drive through a few bumpy, unperfect roads that dead end at a wonderful restaurant, Baliwid Warung. I highly recommend eating here before or after you visit the waterfall. The food is delicious, and their customer service is fantastic. Just past the Baliwid, you will see rugged signs pointing to Sumampan. The trek is about 7 minutes down to the water. There was a stark contrast between the touristy and local waterfall. This one was my vibe!
I was in love with this waterfall the second I saw it (bonus that we were the only people there). I was first drawn to the stone carvings everywhere I looked. They reflect the deep spiritual and artistic traditions of Balinese Hinduism. The carvings are intricate and flawlessly folded into nature. It added to the adventure, making it a spiritual experience. I could have stayed at this waterfall with the Hindu gods and goddesses for hours. We let the current float us down the river a bit, which was fun. Down the way, we saw a Balinese man working on a stone carving, so cool!
Pro tip ~ this is a wonderful place to meditate, nap and stay a while. Water, trees, stones and wonderful artwork will surround you. Here, you can let nature, tranquility, and peace wash over you. Pack a picnic so you don’t have to worry about provisions and allow yourself time to get lost! If you are on a waterfall crusade, check out a few more in the area 🤗
4. Sideman
Our 4th destination on our roadmap to experiencing Bali without the crowds is Sideman. Sidemen is a picturesque village renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, lush landscapes and traditional Balinese culture. It reminds me of how Ubud might have felt 30-40 years ago. Here are my suggestions on how to spend your time in Sideman:
• Trek the Rice Fields – these verdant rice fields are perfectly intertwined with other crops and vegetation. They are meticulously maintained and offer breathtaking views. The green, undulating fields are a signature feature of the area. Upon trekking, you will notice the unique irrigation system the farmers have created for their agriculture to thrive. There are signs everywhere to self-guide your hike. You can make it as long or as short as you like. Enter the fields and trekking area here.
• Refreshments at Panorama Sideman – after the trek, you will be ready for refreshments. Stop here to hydrate and take in the sprawling views of the countryside and Mount Agung. Just above the restaurant, don’t miss the rope swing and bamboo bridge lookout ~ perfect for your Instagram capture!
• Lunch at Warung Sri Uma Sideman – this restaurant, run by a wonderful family is perfectly placed as you exit the trekking trail. The views are mesmerizing, and the food is scrumptious! It’s a wonderful place to continue taking in the farmlands while supporting a local business.
• Gembleng Waterfall – 15 minutes outside Sideman lies Gembleng Waterfall, another gorgeous waterfall known for its dramatic height. The climb is about 10-15 minutes to the top and quite steep. Don’t worry; it is over before you know it, and the steps up are safe and well-maintained! As you trek up, you can stop at different waterfall levels and take a dip. At the highest point, there is a well-appointed restaurant with provisions. Absorb the rolling hills and rice fields here.
• Stay a While – there are many places to stay in Sideman catering to different budgets. This countryside is the perfect place to finish a book, work on a project or take advantage of the wellness and yoga the area offers. There were two resorts I could not stop gawking at ~ Wapa di Ume Sideman & Patal Kikian Villa. If you don’t stay at these places, consider having a drink or meal at their restaurants to witness the incredible architecture and enjoy the views!
Pro tip ~ Sideman is a great basecamp if you wish to trek Mount Agung or visit the Besakih Temple, as both are under an hour away.
5. Blue Lagoon
Your last recommendation on how to experience Bali without the crowds ~ Blue Lagoon! This hidden gem is located near the eastern village of Padangbai. Come here to feel like you are at the edge of the earth. Here are my suggestions on how to enjoy the area:
• Snorkel at Blue Lagoon – ideal for swimming and snorkeling, you can rent gear from the local warung or bring your own. The water is warm and clear. It is incredible how private and calm this lagoon feels. Enjoy a slow afternoon and lunch at Warung Blue Lagoon. It is also a superb dive spot. There are plenty of local shops to choose from.
• Sunset & Dinner at Bias Tugel Beach – this beach is a bit of a secret, but not really. It is on Google and just takes some work to find. Map yourself here and park your bike at the entrance. Follow the signs and steps to the beach.
The beach is lined with local restaurants, many trying to lure you in the moment you arrive. I researched for you, keep heading south to one of the last restaurants, Warung Dheny. Run by an adorable family, the feast was delicious. $6 USD fed two people – what a deal! Here, you get a front-row seat to this pristine beach and sunset. Enjoy your special moments away from the crowds.
Pro tip ~ for another picturesque beach in the area, check out the beloved Virgin Beach. It has a similar vibe to Bias Tugel, only bigger and more populated.
• Blue Lagoon Eco Village – if you are looking for a classy stay in the area, this is it! It is nestled on the cliff above the lagoon, with sprawling ocean views. The accommodations are private and well-suited for families and larger groups. They offer activities and yoga, so check out the schedule.
If you don’t stay here, you can still enjoy the restaurant; a reservation is preferred. We had my birthday dinner here. It was sublime, complete with a birthday cake! The burger, crab cakes, and veggie curry with red rice were a complete hit 🙌🏽
• Island Hop – Blue Lagoon neighbors Padangbai, a small coastal town with a port that serves as a gateway to Nusa Penida, the Gili Islands and Lombok. Being this close to the port will trigger your wanderlust. Just saying because it happened to me! I suggest packing light and island hopping 😎
To catch our 411 on Lombok, peep that article here.
Bali Without the Crowds
I know you will relish these 5 unforgettable ways to experience Bali without the crowds! I had a blast adventuring with my friend and blazing our unique trail. With these choices, there is something for everyone: exercise, adventure, luxury, simple beauty, waterfalls, nature, tasty food and much more. Whenever I am somewhere touristy, I remind myself it is that way for a reason! I try not to get upset, although it is a good clue to get creative in finding the less traversed gems Instagram isn’t guiding you to, 😉.
xoxo, Bekah
PS ~ if you are invited into a Balanese home while visiting, say yes! Many homes are architecturally stunning, with traditional Hindu designs and a temple. You won’t be able to leave without drinking coffee and eating some fruit with your new friends 🤗
PSS ~ as mentioned above, it is hard to stare at Lombok and not head there. Check out our guide to the best beaches and surf in Lombok here!
