Glittering beaches that stretch on endlessly with crystalline blue waves gently lapping the shores; ancient temples that inspire awe; marketplaces alive with culture, art, and vivid colors; luxurious resorts designed to help you forget your troubles — this is beautiful Bali, Indonesia. RealTravelers KevHolls enjoyed a wonderful time surfing in Kuta, while Ben around the world gained insights into Balinese culture by visiting incredible temples in Bedugul. Many more RealTravel members have experienced moments to remember in Bali — check out Bali Itineraries by RealTravelers below to see more.

Travel expert Michelle Finkelstein recommends Bali as a lovely destination for honeymooners, especially those on budget. Whether you’re searching for a romantic getaway, a fun-filled place to take your family, or a backpacker’s paradise, Bali is a great choice. Here are some excerpts from Michelle’s 6 night/ 7 day itinerary which highlights things to do across the entire spectrum of this enticing island:

Day 1: Arrive in Bali & Head to the Beach
Getting There:
Cathay Pacific flies from either US coast via Hong Kong to Denpasar, Bali’s international airport.
Beaches:

– There’s a beach in Bali to suit anyone’s tastes, from the popular surfer-haven Kuta to tranquil, family-oriented Sanur.
– Jimbaran Bay – Offers the opportunity to witness local daily life and boasts striking views and sunsets from its attractive beach. There are also many thatched-roof restaurants on the sand featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies
– Nusa Dua – Featuring mostly luxury resorts, this area also has the famous Bali Golf and Country Club.
–Kuta & Legian – This long sandy strip of beach is home to clubs, bars, and shops, attracting young backpackers and surfers.
– Poppies Lane I in Kuta is a great street for casual dining.
– Kuta Square is the main shopping hub.
– Kuta Art Market for woven baskets and other crafts.
– Seminyak – Extending north from Kuta and Legian, it becomes more tranquil the farther up you go and the luxurious Oberoi Hotel is here.
– Sanur – The beach runs nearly the full length of the town, popular with families and vacationers looking for a respite from the boisterous Kuta scene.
– Traditional Spa Treatment – Indulge in a classic Balinese body treatment using native ingredients and techniques. A favorite is the Javanese Lulur Treatment, a two-and-a-half-hour experience involving a natural masque of herbs and spices ranging from turmeric and nuts to coffee and ginger, followed by a cooling yogurt moisturizer. After a shower and flower-infused bath, finish with a leisurely massage. Many spas offer tandem treatments for couples. Most high-end hotels have a spa, and the Four Seasons facilities are excellent.

Days 2 & 3: South Bali
What to Do: Sunbathing on pristine beaches, unwinding by the hotel’s infinity pool or enjoying watersports such as surfing, snorkeling, diving, jet skiing, fishing or parasailing are a few activities to enjoy in this area.

City of Denpasar – This bustling capital features colorful markets, temples, an art centre and a wonderful museum housing one of the best Balinese art collections in the world.
— Pasar Badung – Market vending flowers, fruit, vegetables, textiles and even bejeweled dance costumes.
— Jalan Sulawesi - The best street for buying gold jewelry.
— Pasar Burung – A lively bird market that also sells dogs, tropical fish and fighting cocks.
— Pura Maospahit – Temple dating from 13th-15th centuries is one of Bali’s oldest.
— Bali Museum – The collection of ritual masks, excavated artifacts ranging from Bronze Age to 19th century and the fantastic brickwork Ceremonial Gate are not to be missed.

Pura Luhur Uluwatu – This fine example of traditional Balinese architecture is also one of the island’s holiest temples. Built in the 11th Century, this divine place of worship is best visited late afternoon into sunset. Admire the three-tiered pagoda, characteristic in Balinese temple complexes, the arched doorway of the main gate and the fiercely-carved guardian statues. (more…)

Days 4-5: Central Bali
What to Do: Terraced rice fields, the mighty Ayung River, classical villages and lush hillsides characterize this region of the island. Ubud, the former kingdom and contemporary cultural center, is the perfect central location from which to discover the nearby rich natural and artistic treasures. Hiring a car and guide is the easiest way to get around, although tourist shuttles stop at most major sites. It can get much chillier in the central highlands, especially in the evening.

— Ubud – Art galleries, craft workshops, farmers market and a museum are found in the center. Being the artistic and cultural heart of the island, music, dance and theatrical performances can all be attended here.
— Jalan Wanara Wana (Monkey Forest Road) – Restaurants, galleries and affordable guesthouses line this road.
— Pasar Ubud – Features stalls selling crafts and foods as well as a morning farmer’s market.
— Museum Puri Lukisan – Houses an impressive collection of intricate mainly 20th century Balinese paintings and sculpture.
— Puri Saren – Ubud’s royal palace dating from the 1890s.
— Pura Taman Saraswati – Built in the 1950s this temple is surrounded by a water garden and lotus pond.
— Hiking in the Countryside – It is possible to walk around the outskirts of Ubud, wandering among rice paddies, small temples and shrines and an artists’ settlement.
— Traditional Dance – Balinese dances are performed daily in Ubud in the outdoor courtyard at Puri Saren and other venues. Performances of the Hindu epic Ramayana are popular but most spectacular is the Kecak Fire and Trance Dance.
— Shadow Puppet Theatre – Delicately cut and painted leather puppets depicting gods and figures from the Ramayana act out scenes behind a screen backlit by a flickering candle. (more…)

If Michelle’s suggestions have inspired you to pack your swimming suit and head to Bali, check out the rest of her exciting itinerary here. She offers suggestions on places to stay, and things to do if you find yourself with extra time to spend. Also, be sure and see what adventures RealTravelers have been on in Bali by clicking on the links below!

Bali Itineraries by RealTravelers:
One Week Escape to Bali by Ben around the world
Jeff & Hillary’s Excellent Adventure: Part 1 - Indonesia by Jeff & Hillary
First Trip to Beautiful Bali by Cee

More Useful Links:
Bali Travel Guide
Bali Tourism
Bali Travel Blogs
Bali Pictures