Best Day Trips from Bali – Beaches, Temples & Volcano Views
Bali Vibes Experience
21 September 2025
Bali is more than just a destination; it’s a world of experiences waiting to be discovered. While many travelers spend their time exploring Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu, some of the island’s most memorable adventures lie just a short trip away. From crystal-clear beaches and sacred temples to breathtaking volcano views, day trips in Bali allow you to capture the island’s soul without rushing. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or simply chasing the perfect Instagram shot, here are the best day trips from Bali to add to your itinerary.
Nusa Penida Day Trip – Beaches & Island Wonders
One of the most popular day trips from Bali is to Nusa Penida, a rugged island just 40 minutes by fast boat from Sanur. Known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and pristine beaches, Nusa Penida feels like a world away.
Highlights include Kelingking Beach, famous for its T-Rex-shaped cliff, and Broken Beach, where a natural arch frames the ocean. Don’t miss Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool, and if you love marine life, go snorkeling at Crystal Bay or with manta rays at Manta Point.
What makes Nusa Penida special is its raw beauty—still less developed than Bali, it offers a sense of adventure and discovery. A day trip here combines island hopping, sightseeing, and snorkeling into one unforgettable journey.
Mount Batur Sunrise – Volcano Views That Take Your Breath Away
If you’re seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, set your alarm early for a Mount Batur sunrise tour. Located in Kintamani, the active volcano rises 1,717 meters above sea level and offers panoramic views across Lake Batur and Mount Agung.
There are two main ways to enjoy this trip. Adventurous travelers can hike to the summit in the early hours, reaching the top just in time for sunrise. For those who prefer comfort, a Mount Batur Jeep Sunrise Tour provides the same magical view without the climb. After sunrise, many tours include a visit to a natural hot spring, perfect for soaking sore muscles while gazing at the lake.
The combination of fresh mountain air, golden sunrise, and volcanic landscapes makes this one of the most iconic day trips in Bali.
Ubud Cultural Escape – Waterfalls, Rice Terraces & Temples
Ubud is often called the cultural heart of Bali, and a full-day trip here brings together everything that makes the island so enchanting. Start your journey at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, where lush green paddies stretch endlessly, perfect for photography or a peaceful walk.
Next, cool off at Tegenungan Waterfall or the hidden Uma Anyar Waterfall, where you can swim beneath cascading waters surrounded by jungle. Continue to Tirta Empul Temple, where locals and visitors perform traditional water purification rituals.
Don’t forget to explore Ubud’s art villages—Mas for wood carving, Celuk for silver jewelry, and Batuan for painting. Round off your day with a coffee tasting at a plantation, where you’ll learn about Bali’s famous Luwak coffee.
This tour combines nature, spirituality, and culture, making Ubud one of the best places for a Bali day trip.
South Bali Adventures – Uluwatu Temple & Jimbaran Sunset
If you love the ocean, South Bali is where you’ll find some of the island’s most dramatic seascapes. A day trip to Uluwatu Temple is a must. Perched high on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, this temple is as famous for its sunset views as for its resident monkeys.
Stay until evening to watch the Kecak Fire Dance, a traditional performance set against the backdrop of the setting sun. Afterward, head to Jimbaran Beach, where seafood cafés line the sand. Dining on grilled fish with your feet in the sand as the waves lap nearby is the perfect way to end the day.
South Bali is ideal for travelers looking for a mix of culture, nature, and culinary delights all in one trip.
East Bali Exploration – Tirta Gangga & Lempuyang Temple
For a journey into Bali’s quieter side, consider a day trip to the island’s east. Here, you’ll find Tirta Gangga Water Palace, with its ponds, lotus flowers, and stone statues that make it feel like stepping into a fairytale.
Nearby lies Lempuyang Temple, home to the famous “Gates of Heaven.” Framing Mount Agung in the background, this spot has become one of Bali’s most photographed sites. While the wait for photos can be long, the views and spiritual atmosphere are worth it.
East Bali also offers rice fields, traditional villages, and hidden beaches, making it perfect for those who want a more serene escape away from the crowds.
Combination Tours – Adventure Meets Culture
Sometimes the best way to enjoy Bali is through a combo tour, where you can blend adventure with relaxation. Imagine starting your day with an ATV ride through Ubud’s jungle tracks, cooling off with Ayung River rafting, and finishing with a visit to a coffee plantation.
Other popular combinations include Mount Batur sunrise paired with hot springs, or Ubud cultural tours mixed with waterfall chasing. These packages maximize your time, offering diverse experiences in a single day.
Combination tours are ideal for those who want to see and do more without the hassle of planning multiple trips.
Why Choose a Private Tour for Your Bali Day Trip?
While group tours can be fun, nothing compares to the flexibility of a private Bali tour package. With your own driver and customizable itinerary, you can travel at your own pace, stop for photos whenever you like, and skip the tourist traps.
Private tours also allow you to access hidden gems, from secret waterfalls to family-run restaurants. Plus, they’re often more comfortable and can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s photography, culture, or adventure.
With Bali Vibes Experience, you get more than just a driver—you get a local friend who knows the island inside out.
Tips for Planning Your Day Trip in Bali
- Start early: Many attractions are quieter in the morning.
- Dress appropriately: Temples require modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered).
- Bring cash: Entrance fees and local shops often prefer cash.
- Stay hydrated: Bali’s tropical climate can be hot and humid.
- Book in advance: Popular tours like Nusa Penida and Mount Batur fill up quickly.
Bali’s magic lies in its variety. In just one day, you can chase waterfalls, climb a volcano, explore temples, or relax by the beach. Each Bali day trip reveals a new side of the island, ensuring your journey is as diverse as it is memorable.
With Bali Vibes Experience, every detail is taken care of, so all you need to do is soak up the scenery and embrace the vibe. Whether you’re here for a week or just a few days, these trips guarantee memories that last a lifetime.