Secrets of budget travel to Bali: how to relax and not go broke

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Dreaming of a paradise holiday in Indonesia, but afraid of high prices? Good news: travelling to the popular resort can be quite affordable if you know the right approaches to planning. In this article we will reveal the secrets of budget travelling to Bali. You’ll learn how to find bargain accommodation, dining and entertainment options to enjoy the island without hitting your wallet.

From words to deeds: real ways to save money in Bali

Theory is good, but what does a budget holiday to Bali look like in practice? It’s all about everyday decisions and little tricks about accommodation, transport, food and entertainment. Let’s take a look at specific ways, proven by many travellers, that allow you to enjoy the island without overpaying.

Secrets of budget travelling in Bali

These methods are tried and tested by thousands of travellers who choose freedom over a travel agent. They don’t require sacrifice – just a little flexibility and mindfulness. Practical ways to save money work right here: where small habits add up to big savings. Each item is a concrete tool that cuts costs without compromising on the experience:

Book accommodation through local chats – savings of up to 30%.
Use a motorbike instead of a taxi – minus $5-10 per day.
Buy fruit from markets rather than supermarkets – 2-3 times the difference.
Meals at warungs are $2-3 a day instead of $15.
Going to free beaches and festivals is $0 vs $20 per tour.
Combine tour itineraries – saving up to $40 per trip.
Use the GoJek and Grab apps – fixed, fair prices.

The secrets of budget travelling in Bali are in rationality, flexibility, and the ability to find pleasure in variety rather than costliness.

Lodging – $70 a week

Cheap accommodation in Bali can be found in every tourist area. A guesthouse with wi-fi, a fan and a private bathroom costs about 150-180 thousand rupiah per day ($10-12). When renting for a week, hosts often give discounts of up to 20%. Thus, the price for 7 days ranges from 1-1.2 million rupees, which is equivalent to $65-$70. Opting for gesthouses or rooms in local houses reduces costs and allows you to immerse yourself in the culture. Many options offer free breakfast, another way to save money.

Transportation – $20 per bike

Cheap transport in Bali is not an alternative, but the norm. Renting a motorbike for a week costs Rp 600-800,000 ($38-52). If you pay directly to the owner, the price drops to $20-25. In Changgu and Ubud, the bike remains the most cost-effective and convenient transport. A full tank (2.5 litres) costs Rp25,000 ($1.6) and is enough for 3-4 days. The secrets of budget travelling in Bali advise against renting a car – traffic jams, cost and parking make it unprofitable.

Food – $40 a week

Cheap food in Bali provides not only savings but also gastronomic variety. One meal in a warung costs 15-25 thousand rupiah ($1-1.7). With three meals a day in such cafes, the cost is 45-75 thousand rupiah per day ($3-5). For seven days, that’s about $35. Adding fruits and light snacks from the market (for example, bananas – 7 thousand rupees/kg, mangoes – 12 thousand rupees), the total amount will be no more than $40. Secrets of budget travelling in Bali advise alternating warungs with supermarket and street food. This approach preserves variety and reduces the cost of food.

Entertainment – $15 a week

Free entertainment in Bali makes holidays affordable without compromising on the experience. Most beaches are open 24 hours a day and there is no charge.

Terrace walks, dawn yoga, markets and waterfalls are often available for free or for a donation. Entrance to Kantolempang waterfall is Rp 10,000 ($0.7), and at Uluwatu sunset only parking is charged at Rp 3,000. For a week’s entertainment with trips, natural locations and cultural events rarely exceed $15. The practice of affordable holidays suggests to check in advance the schedules of festivals and free events around the area.

Excursions – $30 for 2-3 packed outings

Low-cost holidays also include organised excursions – the main thing is not to take them from street vendors. Online booking through local aggregators reduces the price by up to $10-15 per tour. Self-guided itineraries bring even more savings. Climbing Batur with a guide costs $25. On your own, it’s only $5 for entry and $2-3 for transfers. A combination tour with Tirta Empul Temple, Tegenungan Waterfall and Ubud Terraces costs $10 if you hire a bike. Budget travelling secrets advise planning itineraries in advance and combining locations by district. This approach reduces travelling costs and makes for a fuller day.

Maximum at minimum

You can spend $175 for a week on everything: accommodation, food, transport, excursions, beaches, entertainment. At the same time, the holiday does not lose its intensity, beauty and comfort level. The average price of a week package tour through agencies – from $1100 without excursions, with restrictions on routes and food. The secrets of budget travelling to Bali reveal an alternative approach – flexible, independent and economical.

The approach allows you to save money, get a feel for the island, understand its rhythm and enjoy your holiday on your own terms.

Secrets of budget travelling in Bali: insights

Holidays do not depend on the amount of money in your wallet. Proper budget allocation reduces spending on accommodation, food, transport and leisure activities. The intensity of the trip remains the same. It’s not the amount of money spent that matters, but the way expenses are structured and controlled. A rational approach turns every expense into an investment of comfort, freedom and experience. Thoughtful steps allow you to discover the resort in its entirety – without compromise or financial pressure.

Bali’s Beautiful Beaches: Top 10 Places to See

Bali is not just an island, but a world where every coastline is unique. There are surf beaches with perfect waves, secluded coves for a quiet holiday and luxurious sandy strips lined with beach clubs. The variety of scenery is amazing: the white sand of Uluwatu, the black volcanic beaches in the north, the coral shoals of Sanur.

The beautiful beaches of Bali are not only popular tourist locations, but also hidden corners that only the locals know about. This is where you can enjoy the secluded atmosphere, clean coastline and incredible scenery while staying away from the noise of the crowds. This article is a complete guide with a detailed map of the locations of these paradises.

Bali’s best beaches for an unforgettable holiday

The beaches in Bali vary in atmosphere and natural features. Some are perfect for meditating at dawn, while others are perfect for partying until the morning. In order to find these beautiful Bali beaches, it is important to determine the purpose of your holiday.

The coasts can be categorised:

sandy beaches with easy access to the water, ideal for family holidays;
Coral coves that attract divers and snorkellers;
A high-wave coastline that attracts surfers from all over the world.

Each coastline on the island offers unique vistas. Let’s take a look at 10 places that impress with their natural scenery, atmosphere and infrastructure:

Top 10 beautiful beaches in Bali:

Kuta Beach
Seminyak Beach
Jimbaran Beach
Padang Padang Beach
Sanur Beach
Pemuteran Beach
Melasta Beach
Bingin Beach
Balangan Beach
Nyang Nyang Beach

We’ll talk more about each of these amazing coasts in the article below.

Where to find the most beautiful beaches in Bali

The island is renowned for its variety of beaches, from crowded white sand resort areas to wild coves hidden among the cliffs. Surfing, swimming, secluded holidays or gastronomic experiences are all available, depending on preference.

The most picturesque beaches are concentrated in the southern and eastern parts of the island. The west coast is famous for its powerful waves that attract surfers. The northern direction is suitable for diving and snorkelling.

The best regions with beautiful beaches in Bali:

for surfing – the west coast, where the big waves form. Particularly popular beaches include Kuta, Padang Padang, and Balangan. Both waves for beginners and serious reels for pros are found here;
for swimming – calm bays of Sanur, Pemuteran, Melasti, protected from high waves by coral reefs and natural barriers. The water here is clean and transparent, the bottom is sandy and coral;
for luxury holidays – Seminyak coast, where expensive resorts, beach clubs with swimming pools and restaurants with panoramic ocean views are concentrated;
For romance, there’s Jimbaran with spectacular sunsets and restaurants right on the sand serving the freshest seafood.

Each region offers extraordinary natural locations, so when choosing a place, it is important to consider the purpose of the holiday, the level of waves and the features of the infrastructure.

Bathing beaches – where the water is clear and calm

Not all of Bali’s coastline is suitable for comfortable swimming. Some places have strong currents, rocky bottoms or high surf. For a relaxing holiday without waves, it is worth choosing sheltered bays. Such as:

Sanur is a calm lagoon with a sandy entrance to the water. There are almost no waves here due to the natural barrier of coral reefs. It is ideal for families with children and the elderly. There are cafes, boat hire and beach clubs along the coast.
Pemuteran is one of the cleanest and most picturesque spots in Bali. The shoreline is covered with fine golden sand and the water is smooth with no sharp depths. The famous artificial reef Biorock is located here, where snorkelling and diving lovers come.
Melasti is a secret corner in the south of the island with turquoise water and white sand. For a long time this beach was closed to tourists, but now there is a road right through the rocks. The water here is incredibly clear, and the descent into the ocean is soft and gentle.

Surfing beaches – the best waves

The island of Bali is the surfing capital of the world, with locations for beginners and professionals. The most popular wave zones are located on the west coast of the island. Let’s consider the most popular coasts for extreme surfing:

Kuta is the ideal place for your first attempts to conquer a wave. The gentle bottom relief makes surfing comfortable even for beginners. There are surf schools with experienced instructors on the coast.
Padang Padang is an iconic spot for experienced surfers. Waves here can reach 3-4 metres, creating powerful tunnels. At low tide, picturesque lagoons with coral reefs open up.
Balangan is an atmospheric place to ride. It has great wave lengths and is close to surf camps and cosy cafes. Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.

When choosing a beach, it is important to consider the season, wind direction and level of fitness.

Incredible beaches in Bali that few people know about

In addition to popular locations, the island has amazing coastlines hidden from the tourist traffic. These are real natural gems with white sand, azure water and minimal infrastructure.

Melasti is a secret beach among the cliffs

It is located in the southern part of the island, surrounded by high limestone cliffs. For a long time it remained closed to the public. Today, a new scenic road leads here, which is built right through the cliffs. Important differences:

the water is clear, no waves or currents;
The sand is snow-white, soft, no rubbish or seaweed;
one of the best places for photo shoots thanks to the natural arches and grottos.

Bingin is a surfer’s haven without the crowds of tourists

A small secluded cove with a soft sandy bottom and an incredible boho atmosphere. Characteristic features of the beach:

Medium-high waves – great for surfing;
The cafe and bungalows are located right on the cliffs overlooking the ocean;
one of the best beaches for sunsets in Bali.

Nyang Nyang is a long wild beach

This coastline is often overlooked by tourists. The only way to get here is on foot, through the jungle. This makes the journey difficult and time-consuming. Many people prefer more accessible places, unaware of the amazing sight that awaits them on this secluded coastline. Distinctive features of the beach:

minimum people, maximum nature;
the water is azure, the sand is light gold;
Ideal for trekkers looking for solitude.

These beaches allow you to experience Bali from a different perspective – without the crowds, tourist umbrellas and noise of the city.

Conclusion

Bali’s beautiful beaches are amazingly diverse. Surfing, luxury resorts, secluded corners – everyone will find a place to their liking. Here you can meditate at dawn, dive into the underwater world or enjoy gastronomic masterpieces right by the ocean. Bali is not just a journey, it is an adventure that begins with the first step onto the soft sand. Discover your beach paradise now!

May 14, 2025

Top 10 luxury hotels in Bali in 2025

Balinese luxury is no longer about faceless five-star hotels and one-size-fits-all ocean views. Now it’s about privacy, design, architecture, local flavour and service that anticipates desires. The top 10 luxury hotels in Bali are locations that do more than just offer a night’s accommodation – they form a complete experience where every detail counts.

Amandaya Canggu – a well-deserved first place in the top 10 luxury hotels in Bali

The hotel uses minimalism not as a style, but as a philosophy. The architecture redefines Zen: wood, open spaces, natural materials. Spacious villas include private pools, teak terraces, and views of rice paddies. The resort targets adult connoisseurs of quiet, fresh cuisine and private holidays.

Top 10 luxury hotels in Bali includes Amandaya as an example of the impeccable balance of privacy and infrastructure, with restaurants, surf schools and galleries nearby. Price per night starts from $950.

Grün Resort Uluwatu – a tropical Bauhaus with a wave view

Grün Resort Uluwatu offers geometry, minimalism and ocean sunsets in every room. The architects used natural ventilation, solar panels and local materials. The resort has become a leader among Bali’s eco-friendly luxury hotels.

On the territory there is an infinity pool, a restaurant with author’s vegan cuisine, a yoga deck and a SPA. Grün is one of the top 10 luxury hotels in Bali, offering eco-friendly comfort without compromise.

ONAYA Bali Resort – Adults Only – a place where holidays are child-free and wordless

ONAYA Bali Resort has created a space without the fuss. The resort welcomes guests from 18 years of age and each room is equipped with a private heated pool, bio-cotton linen and in-built acoustics.

The resort takes an unconventional approach, with breakfasts delivered to your room on wooden plateaus. Each villa has its own garden, and parties are replaced by lectures on local culture. ONAYA’s popularity gives it a firm position in the top 10 luxury hotels in Bali.

Swan Paradise – Pramana transforms nature into interiors

Swan Paradise A Pramana Experience uses the territory not as a backdrop, but as a base. The designers have integrated the jungle inside the villas: open bathrooms, vegetation on the roofs, streams under the floor. The main feature is the private beaches of Bali next to the hotel territory.

The resort attracts connoisseurs of nature and privacy. Prices start from $780 per night. It has taken its place in the top 10 luxury hotels in Bali, prioritising nature over marble.

NEANO ESCAPE – luxury through architecture and silence

The resort has placed 11 futuristic capsules amidst the jungle. No TVs, just panoramic windows, a library and an infinity pool on the roof.

The hotel is digital-detox orientated: gadgets are blocked, Wi-Fi is switched off at night. Drinks are served silently, preserving an atmosphere of silence. NEANO was included in the top 10 luxury hotels in Bali as an object for those who appreciate solitude and aesthetic radicalism.

Ecozy Dijiwa Canggu – a fresh take on eco-luxury.

Ecozy Dijiwa Canggu offers an eco-hotel format with high-end amenities. Wooden bungalows, private pools, organic materials and special decorations emphasise the individuality of each room.

The resort uses solar panels, composts waste, and collaborates with local artisans. Accommodation costs from $490 per night. Ecozy was included in the top 10 luxury hotels in Bali for its harmony of design, ecology and service.

Terra Cottages Bali – zen on the south coast

Он сочетает японскую эстетику и балийскую природу. Архитекторы создали атмосферу приватного ретрита: минималистичные коттеджи, деревянные террасы, открытые бассейны, ресторан с видом на тропики.

Программа йоги, массажи с натуральными маслами, чайные церемонии и тишина делают его конкурентом более дорогих объектов в списке топ-10 роскошных отелей на Бали.

Amnaya Resort Nusa Dua – a modern interpretation of resort classics

Amnaya Resort Nusa Dua operates to the standards of five-star resorts, but avoids clichés. Instead of shiny marble – linen, wood, plants. Instead of a banal buffet – author’s cuisine with farm products.

On the territory there are spacious villas with private pools, a fitness centre, a spa and a conference hall. Located in the centre of the Nusa Dua resort area, it offers easy access to Bali’s best private beaches.

Weda Cita Resort and Spa – wellness at maximal levels

Weda Cita Resort and Spa by Mahaputra is redefining wellness. Yoga pavilions, infinity pools, a 200m² spa complex, a menu of local superfoods and a digital detox on a schedule.

Each villa has been given a personalised recovery programme with meditations, breathing exercises and massages. Top 10 luxury hotels in Bali recognised it for its thoughtful and scientifically based recovery concept.

Kastara Resort – elevation at cloud level

Kastara Resort is set on the slope of a gorge. Each villa offers a panoramic view of Ubud: terraced rice paddies, a shroud of mist and the sound of the jungle. The interiors are minimalist: natural fabrics, wood, handmade.

The resort takes a biophilic approach to architecture: every detail serves to regenerate. Rating participants put Kastara in the top three for guest experience.

Top 10 luxury hotels in Bali: what to choose?

There are no one-size-fits-all solutions – each resort offers its own format, from retreats in rice paddies to villas with a butler. Before booking, it is important to understand the purpose of your trip: relaxation, reboot or active holiday. Bali is an island of contrasts, and its top hotels reflect this as accurately as possible.

When making your selection, it’s worth considering:

Purpose of the trip: meditation, surfing, retreat or wellness.
Composition: couples, singles, adults without children.
Level of service: choice of all-inclusive or fully personalised service.
Location: coast, jungle, centre of the island.
Features: private pools, infinity pools, private Bali beaches, detox, spa.

Each of these resorts is like a different world, with its own philosophy, design and level of privacy. The choice depends on your goal: a jungle retreat or a morning in the lagoon with the sound of the waves. The real luxury here lies in matching the atmosphere of the hotel with your inner demand. User reviews and analytical ratings confirm the reputation of each property.

Conclusions

The ranking of the top 10 luxury hotels in Bali shows that the idea of a luxury holiday has changed dramatically. Today, it is not status that is valued, but substance: atmosphere, concept and authentic details create a real experience. Each resort in the selection is a different story, where luxury is expressed in silence, aesthetics, care and meaning. The modern traveller is not looking for luxury, but for a place to reset, be quiet and immerse in culture.

May 16, 2025