Dive into the Best of Bali: A 15-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1: Jimbaran
    20 minutes (7.9 km) from Ngurah Rai International Airport

    Start your Bali adventure with a relaxing day at Jimbaran Bay. This sheltered beach boasts turquoise waters and soft sands, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. You can also visit Jimbaran fish market and indulge in delicious seafood.

  • Day 2: Uluwatu
    30 minutes (17 km) from Jimbaran

    Located on a cliff facing the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu is famous for its stunning views and cliffside temple. Don't miss the traditional Kecak dance performance at sunset, featuring a group dance and fire show under the stars.

  • Day 3: Padang Padang
    15 minutes (6.8 km) from Uluwatu

    This picturesque beach was immortalized in the Julia Roberts movie, "Eat Pray Love" and is famous among surfers for its consistent waves. Chill out on the beach or catch a few waves before enjoying a cold Bintang at one of the many beachside bars.

  • Day 4: Seminyak
    40 minutes (18 km) from Padang Padang

    Seminyak is a trendy neighborhood with chic boutiques, upscale restaurants, and beach clubs where you can party or simply relax in a luxurious cabana. You can also visit the nearby Petitenget temple, one of Bali's oldest and most revered landmarks.

  • Day 5: Lovina
    2.5 hours (80 km) from Seminyak

    Located on Bali's north coast, Lovina is a quiet fishing village known for its black sand beaches, hot springs, and dolphin watching tours. If you're lucky, you might also spot some rare sea turtles and even whales.

  • Day 6: Munduk
    2 hours (53 km) from Lovina

    Escape the heat and humidity by heading to Munduk, nestled in the cool hills of central Bali. Here you can explore the picturesque rice terraces, waterfalls and hidden temples, before unwinding in one of the traditional hot springs.

  • Day 7: Amed
    2.5 hours (87 km) from Munduk

    Amed is a laid-back coastal town and one of Bali's premier snorkeling and diving spots. Rent some gear and explore the colorful coral reefs and sunken WWII shipwrecks. After a long day in the water, enjoy a fresh seafood dinner and watch the sunset over the volcano.

  • Day 8: Candidasa
    1 hour (35 km) from Amed

    This small beach town is perfect for those looking to explore Bali's cultural side, with nearby temples such as Tirta Gangga and Goa Lawah. You can also relax on the quiet, black-sand beaches or visit the local market and pick up a few souvenirs.

  • Day 9: Sidemen
    1.5 hours (30 km) from Candidasa

    This scenic village is surrounded by lush rice paddies and traditional Balinese villages. Take a guided bike tour or trek around the scenic countryside before indulging in some authentic local cuisine at a roadside Warung.

  • Day 10: Ubud
    1.5 hours (39 km) from Sidemen

    No visit to Bali is complete without exploring the cultural capital of Ubud. Wander through the traditional art market or visit the iconic Monkey Forest Sanctuary. You can also catch a traditional dance performance or visit the nearby Goa Gajah, one of Bali's oldest and most fascinating temples.

  • Day 11: Nusa Lembongan
    1 hour (30 km) from Sanur by boat

    Escape to this peaceful island nestled between Bali and Nusa Penida. Here, you can enjoy some of the best beaches and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling or diving with manta rays. Local warungs offer fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.

  • Day 12: Nusa Penida
    1.5 hour (28 km) from Nusa Lembongan by boat

    This rugged island is a paradise for nature lovers with its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and challenging hiking trails. Highlights include Kelingking Beach, Crystal Bay, and Broken Beach.

  • Day 13: Kuta
    2 hours (54 km) from Nusa Penida by boat to Sanur, then 30 minutes (10 km) to Kuta

    If you're seeking some nightlife, Kuta is the place to be. Famous for its beach parties and neon-lit bars, it's a hub for young travelers looking to blow off some steam. You can also hit the beach for some final sunbathing and surfing.

  • Day 14: Diving
    30 minutes (17 km) From Kuta

    Get ready for a thrilling dive in Bali's vibrant underwater world. Blue Lagoon and Manta Point are arguably the best diving spots for beginners and experienced divers alike. Swim alongside colorful fish, turtles, and even sharks in crystal clear waters.

  • Day 15: The End of the Adventure
    30 minutes (10 km) from Kuta

    After two weeks exploring Bali, it's time to say goodbye to this paradise island. Spend your last day relaxing by the pool, enjoying a traditional Balinese massage, or shopping for last-minute souvenirs before heading to the airport.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Ngurah Rai International Airport (0, $0)
  • Rent car (14 days, $475)
  • Jimbaran Beach (1 day, $10)
  • Uluwatu Temple & Dance (1/2 day, $20)
  • Padang Padang Beach (1 day, $15)
  • Seminyak Beach Club (1 day, $60)
  • Lovina Dolphin Watching (1/2 day, $35)
  • Munduk Trek (1 day, $30)
  • Amed Dive (1 day, $60)
  • Tirta Gangga Temple (1/2 day, $10)
  • Sidemen Biking (1 day, $25)
  • Ubud Monkey Forest (1/2 day, $10)
  • Nusa Lembongan Beach (1 day, $40)
  • Nusa Penida Hike (1 day, $50)
  • Kuta Nightlife (1 day, $80)
  • Diving (1 day, $60)
  • Last Day (0, $0)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $1,000

Transportation

Transportation in Bali will mainly consist of renting a car or scooter, as taxis can be expensive and unreliable. It's recommended to book a rental car in advance - rates vary from $25 to $45 per day, depending on the car size and length of the rental. Gas is also cheap, costing around $4 per gallon. Bali traffic can be hectic, especially in tourist areas such as Kuta, so be prepared for some minor delays. Also, keep in mind that parking can be difficult to find and may be an additional cost in some areas.

Useful Tips

If you have more than 15 days, consider spending extra days exploring Bali's nearby islands such as Gili Trawangan or Lombok. If you have less time, consider skipping some of the lesser-known destinations like Sidemen or Lovina. Don't forget to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and light clothing. While Bali is generally safe, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Kuta.

Airports

Ngurah Rai International Airport - DPS (Denpasar), located in the southern part of Bali and serving several domestic and international airlines. It's only 13 km away from Denpasar, the capital of Bali, and 20 km away from Kuta. There are several transportation options from the airport: official taxis or taxi apps ($10-15 to Kuta), private drivers (negotiable), or car rentals.

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