Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Bali

View My Main Profile
Matt Dawson, Travel Agent in Orlando, FL

Matt Dawson

Orlando, FL Travel Agent
Super Agent

Matt Dawson

Orlando, FL · 6 Years of Experience

Adventures By Matt, an independent agent with WorldVia, a Travel Leaders Agency
5.0
(32)
100% Recommended
He was awesome to work with, very professional and quick to respond when I needed anything. Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Bali

Interests:

Adventure, Animals & Wildlife, Arts & Culture, Bucket List, Luxury

About Me

There’s a reason Bali consistently ranks among the world’s top travel destinations. This Indonesian island paradise is a vibrant mix of ancient temples, lush jungles, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural traditions—all wrapped in the warm hospitality of the Balinese people.Whether you’re chasing adventure, tranquility, or a little of both, Bali delivers in every way imaginable. From sunrise treks up volcanoes to candlelit dinners overlooking rice terraces, the island’s magic is undeniable.Here’s your ultimate guide to the Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Bali—handpicked to help you plan an unforgettable getaway to the Island of the Gods.

1. Tanah Lot Temple – Bali’s Iconic Sea Temple

No trip to Bali is complete without witnessing the mystical beauty of Tanah Lot Temple. Perched dramatically on a rocky offshore outcrop, this 16th-century temple is one of Bali’s most sacred and photogenic landmarks.At high tide, it appears to float on the ocean—a truly magical sight. Visit around sunset, when the temple is silhouetted against the fiery sky, and you’ll understand why it’s one of the island’s most photographed spots.

2. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – Ubud’s Wild Heart

Step into the lush greenery of Ubud’s Monkey Forest, and you’ll instantly feel like you’ve entered another world. Officially called the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, this mystical jungle is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques that roam freely among moss-covered statues and ancient temples.

3. Swing Heaven – Capture Bali’s Most Iconic Photo

If you’ve ever seen those stunning Instagram shots of travelers soaring above emerald rice fields or tropical valleys—this is where they’re taken. Swing Heaven and similar swing spots around Ubud let you channel your inner adventurer while capturing an unforgettable photo moment.As you swing out over the jungle, the breathtaking scenery of Bali unfolds beneath you. It’s exhilarating, scenic, and oh-so-Bali.

4. Ubud Art Market – A Treasure Trove of Local Creativity

At the heart of Ubud lies the Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud), a vibrant maze of colorful stalls bursting with handmade crafts, textiles, paintings, jewelry, and souvenirs.Every item tells a story, and haggling here is part of the fun! Whether you’re shopping for a handwoven sarong, a carved wooden mask, or a piece of local art, you’ll find authentic keepsakes that capture Bali’s artistic soul.

5. Snorkeling in Bali’s Crystal-Clear Waters

Bali isn’t just stunning on land—the magic continues beneath the surface. The island boasts some of Indonesia’s best snorkeling spots, where coral gardens teem with colorful fish, turtles, and other marine life.

6. Tegalalang Rice Terraces – Bali’s Green Wonderland

Few sights capture the essence of Bali like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud. This UNESCO-listed landscape features endless tiers of vibrant green paddies carved into the hillsides, maintained through the island’s ancient subak irrigation system.It’s a photographer’s dream and a peaceful escape where you can walk among the terraces, sip coffee overlooking the fields, or simply soak in the serenity.

7. Balinese Cooking Classes – Taste the Island’s Flavors

For a hands-on cultural experience, join one of Bali’s many cooking classes. You’ll start with a trip to a traditional market to pick out fresh spices, herbs, and produce before learning how to prepare classic dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice), sate lilit (spiced minced seafood skewers), and lawar (mixed vegetables with coconut and spices).Cooking classes are an incredible way to connect with Balinese culture through its food—and you’ll leave with delicious recipes and memories to bring home. 

8. Mount Batur Sunrise Trek – Adventure Above the Clouds

For adventurous travelers, the Mount Batur sunrise trek is a must-do experience. Rising before dawn, you’ll hike up the volcanic slopes by flashlight, reaching the summit just in time to watch the sun rise over the mountains and Lake Batur below.

9. Bali’s Eco-Luxe Resorts – Sustainable Paradise

Bali has become a global leader in eco-luxury travel, offering stunning resorts that blend comfort with environmental responsibility. 

10. Seminyak Beach – Sunsets, Surf, and Style

End your Bali adventure with a golden sunset at Seminyak Beach, one of the island’s most fashionable and vibrant coastal areas. This is where surf culture meets chic beach bars, with beanbags, live music, and tropical cocktails setting the tone.As the sun sinks into the horizon, the sky explodes into fiery shades of pink, orange, and purple—it’s pure island magic.

Final Thoughts: Your Bali Bucket List Awaits

Bali is more than just a destination—it’s a feeling. Every temple, terrace, and beach tells a story, inviting travelers to slow down and savor the moment. Whether you’re watching the sunrise from Mount Batur, bargaining at the Ubud Art Market, or relaxing at a luxury eco-resort, Bali will leave its imprint on your heart.

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
32 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
Search reviews:

Showing 32 reviews

The best trip ever!
Reviewed By Cher - Fircrest, Wa | Traveled to Disneyland ~ California ~ USA
He was awesome to work with, very professional and quick to respond when I needed anything.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
4 of 5 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
The best first experience in Europe!
Reviewed By T - Phoenix, AZ | Traveled to Germany ~ Europe
Matt was super helpful in helping me plan and prepare for my first international trip! He answered all of my questions and made sure I was fully prepared for my trip. 10/10 would work with Matt again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Best Company Trip I’ve Ever Been On
Reviewed By Ana C - Reno, NV | Traveled to Las Vegas | Nevada | USA
From the moment we landed in Vegas, everything felt effortless. Flights, transfers, and hotel check-in were smooth, and it was clear this trip was extremely well planned. The private dinner at Bourbon Steak was next-level — incredible food, amazing service, and such a special atmosphere for our team. Renting out Swingers Mini Golf for the after-party was such a fun and unexpected touch. Huge credit to Matt for creating an experience that felt both luxurious and genuinely fun. He gave plenty of communication about which flight I was placed on along with a detailed itinerary.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Amazing Holiday Incentive Trip
Reviewed By Lydia.P - Austin, TX | Traveled to Las Vegas | Nevada | USA
We cannot say enough great things about Matt and the experience he created for our annual holiday incentive trip in Las Vegas. Planning travel and events for 80 people is no small task, but Matt handled every detail with professionalism, creativity, and total confidence from start to finish. He coordinated all flights, hotel accommodations, and airport transfers seamlessly, making the entire process effortless for our team. The highlights of the trip were absolutely exceptional — a private dinner at Bourbon Steak that felt truly elevated and special, followed by an unforgettable after-party where Matt arranged for us to rent out Swingers Mini Golf. It was the perfect balance of upscale and fun, and our attendees are still talking about it. Matt was proactive, responsive, and always one step ahead, which gave us complete peace of mind throughout the planning process and during the trip itself. If you’re looking for someone who can deliver a flawless, high-impact corporate experience while making it enjoyable and stress-free, Matt is the person you want. We’re already looking forward to working with him again for future trips.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Awesome taste of Italy
Reviewed By BV - Pheonix, AZ | Traveled to Italy | Europe
We can’t thank Matt enough for helping make our post-cruise trip to Italy so special. There were six of us traveling together, and he coordinated everything flawlessly—from our car service after the cruise, to train tickets, hotels, and unique experiences like a Vespa tour and a golf cart tour through Rome. The hotels in Rome and Tuscany were beautiful, and every part of the trip ran smoothly thanks to his planning. I have used Matt before and recommend him to my group of friends. We’ll absolutely be using Matt again for future friend trips and recommend him wholeheartedly!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

Certifications & Awards

ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public.It is the world's largest association of travel professionals.Our members include travel agents and the companies whose products they sell such as tours, cruises, hotels, car rentals, etc.Expand your world. Go with the pros.
The Book with Confidence logo tells you that this Travel Advisor has direct access to comprehensive resources for safe and healthy travel, available at their discretion for sharing with clients.  This includes vetting the details on the health and safety protocols implemented by each travel provider in order to recommend the ideal itinerary for each client’s unique needs.
Trusted Travel Advisor: A Trusted Travel Advisor credentials, resources and global connections translates to today’s consumer in respectful interactions, confidentiality, knowledge, and client advocacy of travel services provided in parallel with building long lasting client relationships that builds with each interaction.  A Trusted Travel Advisor knows their client better than the client may know themselves and puts those polishing touches on each travel collaboration.

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
BESbswy