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Bali Travel Guide

Nowhere on the planet offers the same combination of surfing, spirituality and sun-kissed sybaritic pleasure as Bali. On the Island of the Gods, fresh ideas arrive like waves, creating a glorious cocktail of cultures and influences. A stay here might mean tropical brutalism of The Slow in Canggu or mod-Balinese bamboo pods at Ubud’s Bambu Indah. It might mean kicking back with Canggu’s clean-living nomads, Seminyak’s style-conscious surfers, or Ubud’s smart crowd, who eat at Noma-ish Locavore and roll their eyes at the mention of Eat, Pray, Love. Either way, everyone and everything is welcome.

Plan Your Bali Trip

The Best Beaches in Bali for Big-Hitting Waves and Powder-Soft Sands
You'll want to bookmark these slices of paradise for your next trip to the Island of the Gods.
17 Best Hotels in Bali
Spirit-lifting Bali is as adept at hosting you in eco-friendly bamboo tree houses as it is at with classic sophistication.
9 Rainforest Resorts That Put You Right in the Jungle
These upscale resorts are ideal for anyone craving time in nature.
17 Best Hotels in Bali
From private island hideaways to bamboo treehouses, these properties offer extraordinary views, service, and amenities.
The Ultimate Sunrise in Bali
Photographer Adam Gerber trekked to the top of Bali's Mt. Batur to witness the region's famed sunrises. Here, he shares what it was like to wake up before dawn and see the ultimate beautiful daybreak.
Beyond the Beach: A Guide to Bali's Coolest Neighborhood
Bali is a surfer’s paradise and a haven for spiritual seekers, sure, but it’s also a dream destination for free-spirited foodies and aesthetes. Canggu, a tiny village on the island’s west coast, offers the best of all worlds—without any of the maddening crowds. Christina Pérez and Thomas Beckner explore.

More from Bali

Places to Stay
9 Stunning Airbnbs in Bali, From a Bamboo Treehouse to a Seafront Villa
These are the homestays guests book over and over in the Island of the Gods.
Destinations
The Best Times to Visit Bali
Here’s how to plan ahead—and it’s not all about the weather.
Places to Stay
9 Best Places to Stay in Bali, From Private Island Hideaways to Tree Houses
Classic big-hitters and whip-smart new arrivals.
Inspiration
How a 74-Mile Trek in Bali Is Encouraging Visitors to Tread Lightly
Every stop along Astungkara Way offers an opportunity to learn about Balinese culture—while giving back to the local community
Food & Drink
On Bali, a Local Food Movement is Embracing Traditional Island Flavors
Native produce and time-worn techniques are finally taking center stage. 
Destinations
Bali Has Reopened—Here’s Everything New to Do, from Wellness to Dining
Bali beckons with sun, surf, and spirituality–and visiting has just become easier.
Food & Drink
In Southeast Asia, New Craft Distilleries Are Creating Distinctly Regional Spirits
From a Vietnamese gin to an Indonesian grappa, these bottles tell a story of the local climate and flora. 
Inspiration
A Local’s Guide to Bali, Indonesia
Healer Tjok Gde Kerthyasa on his favorite hidden spots on the island.
Hotels and Resorts
At Bali's COMO Shambhala, Skip the Wellness Fads in Favor of a True Reboot
Now entering its 15th year, the heavy-hitter's focus on wellness is sharper than ever. 
News & Advice
Flight Deal: U.S. to Bali from $560 Round-Trip
Yeah, we know. It's f%$#ing insane.
News & Advice
Obama Arrives in Bali for a Family Vacation
It's back to Indonesia, where the former president spent some of his youth.
Inspiration
Ubud, Bali Before the "Eat, Pray, Love" Effect
Before its rise to thrumming cultural center, before its world-class spas and resorts, and before its ascendance to international fame in Elizabeth Gilbert's best-selling memoir, Ubud was a quiet town of artisans and agriculture. An author looks back.