Bali off the beaten track: hidden gems to explore

Beyond Bali’s luxury pool villas and glitzy beach clubs, there’s another part of this postcard-worthy island that feels more authentic. While the tourist crowds gather in places like central Ubud, it’s still possible to experience a side of this Indonesian gem that feels more connected to tradition, as you explore Bali off the beaten track.

Venture past the main tourist hotspots and you’ll discover hidden beaches, ornate temples, and remote island getaways where locals still practice centuries-old rituals and traditions. You can explore rice terraces, scenic hiking trails, and quiet coastlines that haven’t become Instagram backdrops and discover the island’s real magic away from the crowds.

If you’re planning to go off the beaten path in Bali, this guide highlights some of the best regions and attractions that deserve a spot on your itinerary.

Eastern Bali off the beaten track: untouched landscapes and authentic culture

Eastern Bali is one of the island’s most overlooked regions, perfect for travelers looking for a quiet getaway among rice fields, ancient temples, and volcanic landscapes.

Sidemen: life among the rice terraces

One of Bali’s most charming villages, Sidemen is nestled in the foothills of Bali’s famed volcano, Mount Agung. Only about 90 minutes from Ubud, it feels worlds away with its laid-back ambiance and traditional Balinese culture.

Check into one of the small, family-run guesthouses with views of the rice fields, or take a guided walk to the picturesque rivers and jungles. Visit Gembleng Waterfall to soak in its rock pools, or learn about traditional weaving techniques at a local factory.

Tirta Gangga and the Gates of Heaven

One surprising attraction in eastern Bali is the Tirta Gangga Water Palace, which was built by the King of Karangasem in 1948. It’s adorned with colorful flowers and features koi-filled ponds, tiered fountains, and stone statues that create a peaceful atmosphere.

While Lempuyang Temple is a top tourist attraction in Bali, it’s still possible to enjoy the “Gates of Heaven” and its iconic viewpoint if you time your visit right. Arrive early and get your photos in first, or wait until the day trippers leave and enjoy the quiet before closing. Either way, it’s worth spending an afternoon wandering in one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bali.

Amed: black sand beaches and coral reefs

Amed is a small fishing town in eastern Bali and one of the island’s most beautiful coastal villages. It’s ideal for adventure seekers, offering scuba diving, snorkeling, and hiking opportunities. Dive below the surface on a guided dive to see the USAT Liberty wreck up close, snorkel in the warm waters at Jemeluk Bay, or lace up your hiking boots for an epic hike to Mount Agung.

Make the 30-minute scooter ride to Lahangan Sweet for jaw-dropping views. Popular at sunrise, you can see Mount Agung in full view, as well as the surrounding rice paddies and the coast.

Northern Bali: mountains, waterfalls and cool climate escapes

Northern Bali is beloved for its peaceful, authentic ambiance, offering endless natural beauty and opportunities to explore small villages, sacred temples, and cascading waterfalls.

Munduk: coffee, waterfalls and mountain trails

Munduk makes the perfect home base for exploring Bali’s highlands. Tucked high up in the mountains and surrounded by plantations, it’s best known for its rich Arabica coffee and farmland areas. Waterfall chasing is a must, with Munduk, Melanting, and Banyumala Twin Falls all worth the trek, while Munduk Rice Terrace is a 2.4-mile-long scenic loop.

You’ll find lots of untouched scenery and mainly locals, with just a few guesthouses and restaurants to choose from—perfect for travelers seeking tranquility.

Menjangan Island: pristine reefs and wandering deer

Off Bali’s northwest coast lies Menjangan Island, one of the region’s best-kept secrets. Protected within West Bali National Park, this island is known for its crystal-clear water and abundant sea life.

Divers and snorkelers will be in paradise with its untouched coral reefs and turtles gliding by, while resident deer roaming along the beach add a touch of whimsy to this unique island destination.

Hot springs and hidden hills

For a day of pampering, head to Banjar Hot Springs. Located in Lovina, these natural hot springs are considered to have healing properties. Various pools are filled by dragon-head spouts carved from stone and will leave you feeling relaxed. Locals come here to soak in the warm, sulfur-rich waters because it’s said to improve circulation and ease sore muscles.

Wanagiri Hidden Hills is a scenic viewpoint with panoramic views of Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. It’s a hit with photographers, featuring wooden swings, heart-shaped platforms, and bird’s nest installations that make for the perfect photo op.

Pemuteran: where conservation meets adventure

Pemuteran is a quiet coastal destination in one of Bali’s least-visited regions. Considered the gateway to Menjangan Island, the small fishing village is home to one of the world’s largest artificial reef projects. Divers and snorkelers come here to see the underwater treasures, with local dive schools helping fund further conservation.

Central Bali: beyond Ubud’s tourist bubble

Full of busy attractions, the island’s central region is more than just cafes and yoga studios. Explore the countryside to discover traditional villages, temples, and rice terraces without the crowds—it’s a truly enchanting way to experience Bali off the beaten track.

Kintamani and the sacred Taman Beji Griya Waterfall

North of Ubud, the Kintamani region is famously home to Mount Batur. It offers a long list of bucket list-worthy adventures, from embarking on a sunrise hike to the active volcano, to canoeing on Batur Lake. If you’re feeling up for it, sign up for a Jeep or ATV excursion over the black lava fields, a unique geological feature that formed after a volcanic eruption in 1968.

Post-adventure, make sure to soak in the natural hot springs at Toya Bungkah. For further relaxation, Taman Beji Griya Waterfall is a must-see natural wonder, popular with locals who come here for purification rituals. The sacred site has been a part of religious ceremonies for generations, and is open to the public for melukat, a cleansing bath ritual for the body and soul.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: a UNESCO-protected landscape

Sitting at the base of Mount Batukaru, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are one of Bali’s best natural attractions. The UNESCO-listed site was built over 500 years ago, and a visit here offers the chance to enjoy a scenic hike along the interconnected paths. Marvel at the lush foliage and learn about its cultural significance and importance of traditional agricultural practices.

Penglipuran village: a living example of Balinese harmony

One of Bali’s most beautifully preserved traditional villages, Penglipuran Village has also been recognized as one of the cleanest villages in the world. It features manicured gardens along its stone-paved street, which leads towards the local temple with arched entrance gates. Walk through the village to admire its historic beauty.

Southern and western Bali: secret beaches and untamed coastlines

While the south of Bali is known for its luxury resorts and beach clubs, you’ll also find quiet surf towns and unique stretches of sand to explore.

Tegal Wangi and Green Bowl: hidden coves of the South

Tegal Wangi Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Bukit Peninsula, located just south of Jimbaran. When you first arrive, you’re greeted by an incredible viewpoint at the top of the cliffs.

Take the stairs down to the beach to explore the natural rock pools, or stroll to the end of the beach for a glimpse into the caves underneath the cliffs. Linger until sunset if you can. Due to its west-facing location, it’s considered one of the region’s best places to watch a sunset.

One of Bali’s most unique beaches, Green Bowl Beach is just a short drive away on the south side of the Bukit Peninsula. Access includes a steep set of stairs to reach the bottom, luring in adventurous beachgoers and surf pros looking for uncrowded waves. However, its soft sands are also perfect for sunbathing and seashell hunting in the rock pools at low tide.

Balangan and Balian: surf, sunsets and seclusion

Balangan Beach combines a popular sunset viewpoint with stunningly white sandy shores and towering cliffs. Located on the far east of Bali in the Bukit Peninsula, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Uluwatu. It’s a swimmable beach and also an ideal region for learning how to surf, as you’ll often spot beginners here on their longboards looking to catch a wave.

Farther north, Balian Beach offers a unique experience. In addition to being a popular surf spot, the striking black sand is photogenic. Drawing surf pros from across the globe, it’s beloved for its consistent breaks. Stroll the shoreline for an enjoyable break from the hustle and bustle, or admire the view of surfers in action from Deki’s Warung restaurant.

Island hopping to nearby hidden gems

For those seeking further island escapism as part of their trip to Bali off the beaten track, just off the mainland are a handful of idyllic islands offering everything from secluded retreats to family-friendly escapes.

Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan: quiet island escapes

Nusa Lembongan is only a 30-minute fast boat from Sanur, offering a slice of paradise with its white-sand beaches and seaside cafes. It’s a perfect island for nature lovers, with surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving all popular ocean excursions.

You can kayak through the mangroves and admire the scenery, rent a paddleboard, or hop on a motorbike to Panorama Point for stellar views over the beach and volcanoes.

Cross the yellow suspension bridge from Nusa Lembongan to arrive at Nusa Ceningan. The smallest of the Nusa islands, it’s an easy destination to explore.

Photograph the bright blue water crashing against the cliffs at the Blue Lagoon, enjoy a drink while watching the adrenaline-seeking cliff jumpers at Mahana Point, and cool off with a dip at Secret Beach. This island’s easy-going pace makes it perfect for a day trip.

Make it happen

Feel the enchantment of Bali off the beaten track for yourself: connect with one of our locally-based travel experts in Indonesia to start planning the tailor-made trip of a lifetime.