You probably know Bali as the gorgeous seaside retreat with iconic thatched-roof villas and pristine beaches, but the island is so much more than its sparkling coastline. Striking sights like lush rainforests, manicured rice paddies and ancient Hindu temples, along with the idyllic beaches, make Bali the perfect honeymoon getaway for newlyweds.
The far-flung island locale is also rich with culture. It’s a coveted mecca for wellness-minded couples and adventurers alike. Water sports like snorkeling, paddleboarding and surfing are a given, but there’s more fun to be had if you venture in from the coastline. For travelers who want to add a dash of adventure to your honeymoon itinerary, take a tour of the unbelievable rainforests to see local wildlife in action. Wellness is an activity all its own on the island, with experiences like morning yoga on the beach, local spiritual rituals and luxurious spa treatments.
As a romantic escape, you truly couldn’t ask for a more dynamic honeymoon destination. No matter what vibe you and your partner are looking for, Bali offers many ways to unwind, relax and create unforgettable memories during your post-wedding retreat.
What to Expect in Bali
Those Instagram posts you’ve been obsessing over for weeks? Yes, that’s Bali, and yes, many hotels on the island have elevated villas with private plunge pools that allow you to wake up and take a dip before breakfast. But the second you touch down in this majestic landscape, you’ll realize what makes this little slice of paradise so special can’t be captured in a social media post.
Bali is a province of Indonesia, but the island has a culture and personality all its own. While Indonesia is primarily a Muslim country, Bali is rooted in Hinduism, which means you’ll find awe-inspiring temples and elaborate spiritual customs at every turn. Don’t be surprised if you catch locals sporting ceremonial attire regularly. Traditional dances and performances are something every visitor must see to connect with the rich cultural fabric of the small community.
To avoid the rainy season, plan your honeymoon sometime between May to November. If you’re not opposed to the occasional downpour, November to March still has warm weather and prices are lower since it isn’t peak season. You might get caught in the rain a few times, but how romantic is that? You would basically be the stars of your own rom-com.
Getting There and Getting Around
Getting to Bali isn’t easy, but it’s definitely worth it. Because you’ll spend over a full day traveling to Bali, give yourself at least a week and a half to two weeks to enjoy everything the island has to offer.
Travel time can average between 24 to 40 hours to get there from the United States, depending on your departure city. If you are heading to Bali from an East Coast hub, expect at least a full day of travel going one way, including layovers. Be prepared to hunker down at an airport for a while or even stay overnight.
Though your results may vary based on time of year, you’ll notice that it’s generally cheaper to fly out of or connect through Bangkok and Singapore to Bali’s main airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport, located just south of Densapar. If you have some flexibility, search for a flight to one of these destinations, spend a day or two, then jump on the cheapest flight to Bali. (For more cost-cutting tips, check out this guide for ways to save money on your honeymoon.)
Even though you’ve been traveling for 24 hours or more, once you get to Indonesia you’ll still have some work to do. As of 2022, you will have to purchase a visa on arrival at the airport. The cost is about IDR 500,000 (Indonesian rupiah), which translates to roughly $35. A small price to pay to celebrate your union in paradise!
Also keep transportation in mind with every activity you plan. Public transit is unreliable and not really recommended, but cabs are readily available all over the island. If you are feeling adventurous, you can always rent a motorbike, but it’s not recommended unless you have experience driving one. Traffic can be heavy and erratic, and the last thing you need on your honeymoon is a broken bone!
Areas to Visit in Bali
Bali might be an island, but it’s a big one. There is so much to take in and understand about the vibrant culture of this place. If you can pry yourself away from the ocean views, here are a couple of towns that make Bali one of the most diverse and best honeymoon destinations for newlyweds.
Kuta
If you and your partner are looking to party on your honeymoon, Kuta and Tuban are where you’ll find an incredible nightlife scene. In addition to epic surfing and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, these towns have a vibrant, festive atmosphere where bar hopping is definitely encouraged. If you are looking for a little keepsake, the area also has some great boutiques and flea markets where you’ll lose hours perusing all the unique wares. Kuta is very close to the airport, so you might find tourists stopping by for a quick round of fun before the long plane ride home.
Ubud
The center of Balinese art and culture can be found in Ubud. Visit the famous rice terraces, explore the hidden waterfalls of the rainforest, and go whitewater rafting on the Ayung River. Just don’t forget to pack a jacket — because of the lush landscape, the climate is significantly cooler than other parts of the island. Get to know the locals through a cooking class with your partner and experience the culinary styles of the area. If you feel like exploring the spiritual rituals of Bali, Ubud is where you and your spouse will learn together and share some unforgettable moments. This part of the island is filled with healers, yoga masters and wellness retreats that will shape your journeys for the rest of your life.
Seminyak
If you’re dreaming of lounging in a villa, swinging from an outdoor hammock and taking in the scenery, Seminyak is your place. This is probably the trendiest beach town on the island with upscale boutiques and delicious restaurants around every corner. Set aside at least one night to have a drink at one of Seminyak’s famous beach bars and watch the sunset. Seminyak is definitely more of a party vibe, but it can easily be a relaxing respite as well.
Nusa Dua
If you’re all about that luxe life, Nusa Dua is where you will want to stay. Think five-star honeymoon resorts, top-notch spas and fine dining. Do you and your partner like to hit the green on vacation? Nusa Dua is known for unbelievable golf courses. If you are looking to splurge a little while you’re on your romantic getaway, do it in Nusa Dua.
Jimbaran
Take in the rugged scenery of Bali in the coastal fishing village of Jimbaran. After a walk on the beach to explore larger than life rock formations, make sure to have dinner at one of the little fishing spots along the coast. Restaurants will set up tables right on the white sand and serve seafood specialties that were probably caught mere hours before you sat down.
Canggu
Live your best bohemian island life in the little town of Canggu. Within the last decade, Canggu has developed into somewhat of an artist haven, catering to tourists with a much more authentic vibe than your typical island hideaway. Cafes dot every corner for a quiet break, and you’ll find great yoga classes and other fitness related activities here as well.
Bali Honeymoon Activities
- Relax at a wellness retreat. Whether you are a yoga master or a wellness novice, exploring the healing powers of Bali is a must. Yoga classes, spa treatments rooted in island traditions and soothing hikes should all be on your agenda.
- Visit the rice terraces at Jatiluwih. The famous rice fields in Jatiluwih are probably one of the most underrated attractions in Bali. These perfectly manicured evergreen terraces stretch for more than 600 acres, making for a great sightseeing hike for you and your loved one. The seclusion and wild scenery will make you feel like you are the only two people on earth. Make sure to pack a picnic and enjoy a particularly romantic moment.
- Try snorkeling and scuba diving. Some of the most beautiful underwater wonders in the world reside off the coast of Bali in the Indian Ocean. Nusa Lembongan is a great destination for exploring the raw landscape of the island, swimming through shipwrecks and navigating coral reefs. Take a short boat ride out to the untouched Menjangan Island for truly spectacular views of the blue waters and beaches that feel like you’re on a deserted island.
- Tour famous temples. There are hundreds of temples on the island of Bali, but arguably the most beautiful is Uluwatu Temple. As one of the nine directional temples, Uluwatu Temple is perched on a picturesque seaside cliff overlooking the crashing waves below. Get a glimpse into Balinese culture and take in a performance at the temple, then head to a romantic dinner on the Jimbaran coast.
- Dance the night away. Kuta is definitely the party town of the island and worth visiting for a spin around the dance floor. Club hop down Jalan Legian (Legian Road) for a fun night out. Engine Room and Bounty Discotheque are some favorites along the strip.
- Go for a sunset hike at Mount Batur. There is nothing more memorable (or romantic) than the sunrise hike to Mount Batur. This isn’t just your average trek up a hillside. Visitors come from all over the world to ascend this active volcano at midnight, with a goal of reaching the summit by sunrise for an unforgettable sight. If you aren’t down for a midnight hike, Mount Batur is still worth a visit, as it has probably the best viewpoint in all of Bali.
- Visit the Gili Islands. Just a short boat ride from Bali are three tiny islands that will make you think you’ve discovered a whole new world in Indonesia. In addition to beautiful coral reefs and vibrant marine life, they are home to a few underwater sculptures and shipwrecks perfect for a fun day trip. For a truly romantic moment, book a horseback riding excursion for two around sunset and enjoy dinner on the beach. You’ll feel like the only two people on the planet, even if it’s just for a few hours.
- Take a cooking class. Balinese cooking is rooted in fresh ingredients and local traditions. Learn to seek out the best ingredients at the local market, including exotic produce and spices, and prepare a meal that you and your partner can recreate anytime you’re feeling nostalgic.
Best Resorts in Bali for Your Honeymoon
The resorts in Bali are some of the best in the world. Here are a few of our favorites across the island, from luxury hotels to Bali honeymoon packages that will fill your heart with love..
Four Seasons Resort Sayan in Ubud
This luxe property is suspended above the treetops of Ubud, giving guests a rare glimpse of the landscape from a bird’s-eye view. Located along the Ayung River, most rooms have a waterfront view with a luxurious private plunge pool. The Four Season Resort Sayan offers several special culinary experiences, including cooking classes, a megibung dining ritual with live cooking by chefs in an open kitchen, and private dining next to a rooftop lotus pond. For a relaxing escape, balance your mind, body and spirit at Sacred River Spa where you can enjoy a couples massage while surrounded by the Ayung River Valley jungle.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
This beachfront resort feels worlds away from reality. Tucked into a secluded stretch of beach in the heart of Jimbaran Bay, this hotel is the epitome of relaxation and self-care, both of which you will need after your wedding day. Everything from the design of the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay to the food at the four different restaurants is rooted in Balinese culture, giving guests a taste of the island even if they spend the whole time on-property enjoying the luxe amenities. If you want to venture out, take a cruise on the resort’s sundara to swim, sunbathe and indulge in a Champagne picnic lunch.
The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali
If you want to feel like a VIP at every turn, have a private plunge pool and lounge on a sandy stretch of beach exclusively for hotel guests, book a beachfront suite at the Anvaya Beach Resort Bali. Located in the vibrant party town of Kuta, this resort provides a serene place to take in the sights of Bali in the middle of its most active area. Up the honeymoon factor with a “romance ever after” package, which includes a bottle of chilled sparkling wine and flower petals on the first evening, floating breakfast, sunset high tea and a beachside candlelit dinner for two.
The Mulia
This might be one of the most beautiful hotels on the island. From epicurean experiences at eight restaurants and bars to the serene white sand beaches that frame the resort, The Mulia in Nusa Dua is the idyllic resort of your dreams. Expect the height of luxury with private balconies and Jacuzzis in each room, as well as a stunning oceanfront infinity pool for a romantic sunset dip.
Samanvaya Luxury Resort & Spa
At the boutique 12-villa Samanvaya Luxury Resort & Spa nestled into the lush landscape of Sideman Valley, you’ll find a slice of paradise hidden in the rugged terrain. Here, newlyweds will find traditional architecture, including straw roofs on some of the private villas, as well as one of Sideman’s best wellness retreats, Ananda Spa. As an adults-only resort, it promises seclusion and luxury throughout your honeymoon, whether you’re dining at the on-site Balinese restaurant or relaxing around the resort pool and gardens.
The Mansion Bali
Immerse yourself in Balinese culture in the spiritual center of the island when you stay at The Mansion Bali. The sprawling property is ornate at every turn, giving guests a sense of privacy despite the hotel’s large size. Expect a slew of romantic moments, from rose petal pools to couples treatments at Heaven & Earth Spa. Book a private pool villa for your own romantic retreat just minutes away from Ubud’s cultural center.
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