Overview
Sports enthusiasts in Bali will be pleased to know that this beautiful island offers various activities, from water sports to land sports. Bali has something for everyone. Surfing is one of the most popular sports in Bali, with world-famous waves and spots attracting riders worldwide. Other water sports, such as diving and snorkeling, are popular in Bali. On land, visitors can do everything from hiking and mountain climbing to yoga and adrenaline-pumping quad biking. Bali's tropical climate makes it an ideal destination for outdoor sports, and the island has plenty of facilities and companies to help visitors make the most of their sporting adventures. Whether you're looking for a challenging workout or a relaxing day by the water, Bali is the perfect destination for travelers of all ages and abilities looking for a sporting experience.
This Guide is divided into the following sections:
Surfing
Bali is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. One of the island's biggest enticements, however, is the surf. Bali is famous for its world-class surf spots that attract riders from all over the world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, Bali offers some of the best waves in the world, along with excellent surf culture and a welcoming community.
The best locations in Bali include Canggu, Kuta, Uluwatu, and Padang Padang. Kuta is a popular spot for beginners, with small waves perfect for learning. On the other hand, Uluwatu is known for its challenging waves that can reach up to 3 meters or more. Another popular spot for surfers of all levels is Canggu, with steady waves and a laid-back atmosphere. Padang Padang is a world-famous surf spot with some of Bali's biggest and most challenging waves.
If you are a beginner, taking a lesson from a qualified instructor is a good idea. Many surf schools and camps in Bali offer classes for all levels, from beginner to advanced; they will teach you the basics, including paddling, catching waves, standing up on your board, and riding waves safely. You can also hire a surf instructor on the beach, where prices are around IDR 300,000/hour, including board rental.
Bali has a great surf culture, with many surfers from all over the world living on the island and enjoying the waves all year round. Their welcoming community offers plenty of opportunities to meet other wave lovers and share tips and advice.
⌛ Coming soon: we are currently working on the Surfing Guide.
Bali is surfers paradise with world-class waves
Diving & Snorkeling
Bali can offer unique places for diving and snorkeling. The island boasts a crystal-clear ocean, rich underwater life, and a landscape that attracts divers and snorkelers worldwide. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, Bali offers some of the best underwater experiences in the world.
The best dive sites in Bali include Tulamben, Nusa Penida, Menjangan Island, and Padang Bai. Tulamben is home to the wreck of the USAT Liberty, which has become one of its most popular dive sites. Nusa Penida is famous for its mantas, while Menjangan Island is famous for its coral reefs and colorful marine life. Another popular site is Padang Bai, with various marine species and underwater caves to explore.
For those who prefer to snorkel, there are also many great spots in Bali. Some of the best snorkeling spots are Pemuteran, Amed, Blue Lagoon, and Crystal Bay. Amed is known for its beautiful coral reefs and abundant underwater life, while Blue Lagoon offers calm waters and colorful fish. Crystal Bay is famous for its clear waters and the chance to spot the world's largest fish, the mola-mola, or moonfish.
Many diving and freediving schools in Bali offer lessons for all levels, from beginner to advanced. They will teach you the basics, including how to use equipment, breathe underwater and dive safely. If you are a beginner, taking a lesson from a qualified instructor before diving is essential.
Experienced divers and snorkelers can rent equipment from one of the many dive shops right in the village by the beach or bring their own. Whichever of these activities you prefer, Bali offers unique and unforgettable underwater experiences you won't find anywhere else.
Trekking
Trekking in Bali is an exciting way to explore the island's natural beauty and discover its hidden gems.
One of the most popular trekking routes is to the Batur volcano at sunrise. The trek starts in the early morning hours when trekkers climb to the top of the active Mount Batur volcano to catch the sunrise over Bali's breathtaking landscape. This is a relatively easy trek that is suitable for all levels of fitness. The downside of an early morning climb up Batur is the number of tourists. If you hike Batur during the day, you will likely be alone on the volcano.
Another famous trail is the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud, which offers spectacular views of rice fields, lush valleys, and the Ayung River. The trek is easy and ideal for beginners or those who want a leisurely stroll.
More challenging treks can be made to Sekumpul Waterfall in northern Bali or Mount Agung Volcano's summit. This climb takes 7 to 10 hours and requires perfect fitness.
One of the best things about trekking in Bali is the opportunity to learn about the island's rich culture and history. Many treks offer the chance to visit local villages and interact with friendly locals happy to share their traditions and way of life.
⌛ Coming soon: we are currently working on the Trekking Guide.
Warning
⚠️ Warning: Since 28/05/2023, a ban on any activities on Balinese volcanoes (such as trekking and climbing) has been introduced. The ban applies to both tourists and residents. This ban also applies to the very popular Mount Batur sunrise trek.
Although the ban is in place, it is still possible to come across guides who break the law and take tourists to volcanoes. We recommend not to take unnecessary risks. If caught, you will suffer the consequences, not the guide.
Yoga
Bali has been a hub for yoga enthusiasts from all over the world. The island's tranquil atmosphere, lush tropical landscape, and expansive beaches make it ideal for yoga and meditation.
Bali offers yoga retreats, courses, and workshops to satisfy all experience levels, from beginners to advanced yogis. Many such retreats in Bali provide a holistic approach, combining yoga with other practices such as meditation, massage, and detox programs.
One of Bali's most famous yoga retreat centers is the Yoga Barn in Ubud. Yoga Barn is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings amongst rice paddies and tropical forests. It offers daily yoga classes, workshops, events, meditation sessions, and healing therapies.
Other popular yoga retreat centers in Bali include Radiantly Alive in Ubud and Bali Silent Retreat in the island's northern part. These centers offer a range of yoga classes, meditation sessions, workshops, accommodation, and healthy meals.
Yoga lovers can also find plenty of casual yoga classes in Bali, from the ones on the beach in Seminyak to yoga studios in Canggu and Sanur. These classes are a great way to try different styles and meet other yoga lovers.
Yoga in Bali is about physical exercise, connecting with nature, and the island's rich culture. Many yoga retreats and courses offer the opportunity to explore Bali's spiritual heritage, visit temples and sacred sites, and learn about Balinese culture and traditions.
Overall, yoga in Bali is a transformational experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul and offers many opportunities to deepen your practice and connect with like-minded individuals.
Bali is very popular Yoga place
Golf
Bali's world-class golf courses, beautiful scenery, and year-round warm weather make it an ideal destination for a golf holiday.
One of the most famous courses on the island is the Bali National Golf Club in Nusa Dua. Set against a backdrop of tall palm trees and the Indian Ocean, the 18-hole course offers breathtaking views and challenging play for golfers of all levels.
Another popular course is the New Kuta Golf Course, located south of the Bukit Peninsula. This 18-hole championship course offers panoramic views of the ocean and challenging fairways that will test the skills of even the most experienced golfer.
The Bali Beach Golf Course in Sanur is an excellent choice for a quieter game. This nine-hole course is set among tropical gardens and offers wide fairways and relatively flat greens, making it ideal for beginners or those who want to play more leisurely.
Bali also offers several golf resorts where guests can stay on-site and enjoy exclusive access to world-class golf courses. For example, the Handara Golf & Resort Bali in Bedugul features a challenging 18-hole course.
Bali offers several golf courses, including this Handara Golf & Resort Bali
Rafting
Rafting on the rapids is an exciting adventure becoming increasingly popular in Bali. The island has many white-water rivers providing the perfect setting for this exciting experience. Rafting through the jungle, around waterfalls, and challenging rapids is a truly unforgettable experience.
One of the most popular places for rafting in Bali is the Ayung River, located in the central part of the island. It promises a challenging but safe experience for all levels of rafters as it offers Class II and Class III rapids. As you raft down the Ayung River, you'll pass through a lush jungle, high cliffs, and impressive waterfalls. Along the way, an experienced guide will provide information about the local flora and fauna.
Another popular rafting spot is the Telaga Waja River, located in the eastern part of the island. Telaga Waja is known for its more challenging class III and IV rapids, making it an ideal spot for experienced rafters. As you tackle the rapids, you'll be surrounded by Bali's breathtaking scenery, including rice terraces and lush tropical forests.
Another great location for rafting in Bali is the Melangit River. Known for its crystal clear water and scenic beauty, it offers a calmer but equally enjoyable experience compared to other rivers. You will encounter Class II and III rapids here, making it an ideal place for beginners and experienced rafters.
Rafting in Bali is a great way to take a break from the beaches and enjoy the island's natural beauty. All rafting companies in Bali provide expert guides and equipment, ensuring the safety of all participants.
There is many wild rivers in Bali suitable for rafting
Cycling
Cycling in Bali is a great way to explore the island's stunning landscapes, rice fields, and traditional villages. With its warm weather, varied terrain, and scenic routes, Bali offers everyone a unique cycling experience.
One of Bali's most popular cycling routes is around Ubud. This takes you through the heart of Bali's cultural and artistic center, cycling through rice fields, small villages, and forests. Along the way, you can visit traditional Balinese houses, temples, and art galleries, giving you a glimpse into Bali's rich culture.
We recommend the downhill run in Kintamani for a more challenging ride. The trip starts at the top of Mount Batur, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the volcano and Lake Batur. You will cycle through local villages and forests before finishing at the famous Tegalalang rice terraces.
Other popular cycling routes in Bali include the Jatiluwih rice terraces route, the East Bali route, and the coastal route from Sanur to Ubud. Many Bali bike tours also offer the option to customize your way, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace and preferences.
Cycling in Bali also allows connecting with the island's natural beauty and rural life. Many trips include stops at local farms and markets where you can sample fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices grown on the island.
The downsides of cycling in Bali include the hot weather and especially the overly harsh sun, from which there is no escape. The cons also include the lack of good roads, which you'll have to share with the ubiquitous scooters and often trucks.
Some locals use bicycles too
Horse Riding
Bali has plenty of horse riding options for all levels of experience. Beginners can choose a leisurely ride along the beach, while more experienced riders can explore the island's rugged terrain.
One of Bali's most famous horse riding trips is a sunset ride on the beach. It's an unforgettable experience where you can enjoy a scenic ride along the black sand beaches of Bali's west coast and watch the breathtaking sunset over the Indian Ocean.
The Ubud rice field ride is perfect for those seeking a more adventurous ride. It takes you through rice fields and small villages and offers a glimpse of Bali's traditional way of life.
Another exciting option is to ride the jungle trail in the central part of Bali. This ride takes you through lush forests, crossing rivers and small streams, making it an exciting adventure for experienced and beginner riders.
Selected places where you can ride a horse in Bali:
Horseriding on the beach during sunset
Paragliding
Paragliding in Bali offers an exciting and unforgettable experience that allows you to soar over the island's breathtaking landscape and observe its natural beauty from a bird's eye view. With warm weather, steady winds, and varied terrain, Bali offers a unique paragliding experience.
One of Bali's most popular places for paragliding is Timbis Hill, right above Pandawa Beach on the Bukit Peninsula. This site offers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and the island's southern coast and mild wind that allows for smooth and stable flight. The site is easily accessible and offers several take-off points and landing zones for pilots of all levels.
Another popular paragliding location in Bali is Gunung Payung in Nusa Dua. It offers breathtaking views of the coastline and challenging wind that will ensure an exciting and dynamic flight. The site requires increased skill and experience, but pilots who are not beginners will undoubtedly have no problem and will appreciate the beautiful views.
Tandem paragliding is a great option for beginners or those looking for a quiet flight. Tandem flights allow you to fly with an experienced pilot who takes care of the technical side of the flight, so you can freely enjoy the views and sensations of the flight.
Tandem flights cost around IDR 1,000,000 for 15 minutes and can be booked for example here:
or you can do an entire paragliding course.
Paragliding above the beach
ATV
Quad bikes or ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) are becoming increasingly popular in Bali as it is an adventurous way to explore the island's landscape. These powerful vehicles are designed to handle a variety of terrains, including dirt roads, sandy beaches, and rocky slopes, making them an excellent choice for off-road adventures.
One of Bali's most popular ATV tours is a trip that takes visitors through some of the island's most breathtaking scenery. Riders pass through rice paddies, jungles, rivers, and small villages during it.
The tour usually takes around two hours and includes a stop at a traditional Balinese house where visitors can learn about the rich culture. It is suitable for all ages, and riders are provided with safety equipment, including helmets and gloves.
You can book a quad bike adventure here:
ATV ride in the jungle
Motocross
Motocross enthusiasts looking for a unique and challenging experience should consider heading to Bali's lava fields (or tracks). This is where you can find some of the world's most scenic and thrilling motocross tracks, offering riders a truly unforgettable experience.
Bali's rugged terrain and volcanic landscape are the perfect backdrop for a motocross adventure. Lava fields, rocky slopes, and steep hillsides offer riders a series of challenging obstacles to overcome, while the island's stunning natural beauty provides a breathtaking setting for this adrenaline sport.
One of the most popular motocross tracks on the island is the Bali Dirt Bike Park, located in the southernmost part of the island. It is designed to test even the most experienced riders, offering steep jumps, sharp turns, and many other obstacles. In addition, you can rent an off-road motorbike, including equipment on-site. A link to the track can be found here.
Another option for enjoying Bali on a motocross bike is the Bali Dirt Bike Club, which can help you arrange your desired motocross experience, from riding through rice terraces to the volcanic fields at the foot of the Batur volcano. The offer can be found here.
Private motocross tours are also available for those looking for a more individual experience, allowing riders to explore the island's volcanic landscape on their terms. These trips are led by experienced guides who know the best routes and tracks, allowing riders to take away as much experience as possible.
Motocross track in Bali
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