From Surabaya to Bali
In the heart of the Indian Ocean, the island of Bali attracts travelers from all over the world every year. They go there to contemplate its incredible beauty, its heavenly scenery, its natural gems… Some also go there to rest in a pleasant and exotic setting. To take advantage of the riches of this dream destination and have a good holiday, discover our best tips for going to Bali. The fastest way from Bali to Surabaya takes 1 hour by plane. Or you can drive from Surabaya to Bali and it takes 10 hours, including the ferry crossing.
Flight from Surabaya to Bali
It takes hour by plane from Surabaya (SUB)to Bali airport (DPS) and this is the fastest way.
Example flights from Bali to Raja Ampat:
- Bali (DPS) >Jakarta (JKT) > Sorong (SOQ), then by ferry
- Bali (DPS) > Makassar (UPG) > Sorong (SOQ), then by ferry
Airlines from Surabaya to Bali
From Surabaya to Bali by car
It takes 10 hours drive from Surabaya to Bali, including the ferry crossing.
Why go from Surabaya to Bali?
The timeless beauty of Bali.
You will often find yourself speechless, admiring the landscapes and immersing yourself in the daily flow of a varied and caring population. The days will seem colorful and fast-paced, among festivals, rituals, markets and attractions to admire. Imagine there are at least 20,000 temples. And then you can also relax in crystal clear waters or do sports and exercise with a board or with flippers and a snorkel. Immerse yourself in an extraordinary vacation.
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When to go to Bali?
If we stick to the weather conditions, the best time of the year to go on vacation in Bali is between May and October, during the dry season. Indeed, the months are the driest and sunniest on the island. This period corresponds to the best season, the most coveted by visitors to the island.
In Bali the average annual temperature is 26°. The tropical climate (hot and humid) of the island offers two main seasons: a dry season and a rainy season between January and April. This time of the year is not the best time to travel to Bali, however if you go there, you meet fewer tourists since it is the low season.
Outside the wet seasons, throughout the year heavy showers can appear at any time and soak you from head to toe. To avoid this, regardless of the period you choose, remember to bring rain gear and make the most of the sunny moments.
If you still don’t know when to choose to go to Bali? You can use a trip planner to help you choose the best months to visit the island.
What to see in Bali? what to do and places not to miss
Enjoy the sunset in Seminyak beach
If there’s one thing I love doing in Bali, it’s watching the sun go down. There are several nice and fairly quiet places, but I wanted to highlight the sunset in Seminyak. It is of course quite a touristic place, but for me the spectacle of the sunset is just incredible in this place.
The sky is on fire and the colors are quite unrealistic!There are several bars where you can have a drink while waiting for the sun to go down, but you can also walk a bit to be quieter (without the tourist crowds). You’ll have to check out Seminyak’s iconic bar, La Plancha, a bar with beanbags on the beach and colorful umbrellas to enjoy the view at the end of the day. It’s a must in the area.
In the evening, the party continues on Seminyak with many bars and parties on the beach. If you like to party, this is the perfect place to end your day.
Ubud, the cultural and spiritual center of Bali
Ubud is a city located towards the center of Bali where about 35,000 people live. It is considered to be the cultural and spiritual center of the island. Here is an incredible excursion to do with a guide to the waterfalls, the rice fields and the monkey forest, which I recommend!
As you walk around Ubud, you will appreciate the many handicrafts and you may have the chance to experience ceremonies with traditional dances.
Located on high plateaus, Ubud has a very rich surrounding nature. You can easily escape to the tropical forest, discover the famous rice fields on the plateau or the beautiful Ayung River!
Many majestic temples stand in the surrounding area and you can’t wait to discover them on foot or by bike.
Visiting Ubud in Bali is the feeling of being in osmosis with Balinese nature, culture and traditions. An authentic Bali tour for sure!
Here are some places to discover near Ubud:
The Monkey Forest of Ubud, another must-see in Bali
The Ubud Art market
Ubud Palace
Monkey Forest Road
Gua Gajah (Elephant Cave)
Welcome to one of the emblems of Bali and Indonesia, the temple of Goa Gadja, also known as the Cave of the Elephants, located in an archaeological park, about 2 kilometers from the city of Ubud. It was not until 1923 that Dutch archaeologists discovered this treasure. This mysterious and fascinating cave, which is surrounded by several Hindu temples, is dated to around 1100.
The entrance is represented by a demonic mouth, which represents the Hindu god Bhoma: a way of symbolizing the passage into an underworld. In a niche, on the left side is represented Ganesh, the Hindu deity in the shape of an elephant. Inside the park, you will find women working rice dough and turning it into decorations. Others will weave green palm trees into baskets to offer to the gods.
Tirta Gangga (Water Palace)
Terraced hills for rice cultivation, nature, colors mixed with people’s smiles, flower baskets and gifts. Add a palace that looks like something out of a movie called the “Water Palace” and you’ll understand the wonder of this area. Imagine a majestic building (Tirta Gangga, which means the water of the Ganges), built in 1948, which has in front of it several swimming pools, which one can cross by borrowing floating platforms. A maze of fountains and water, surrounded by gardens and statues. In the palace area, you can also treat yourself to a meal with typical specialties, admiring the setting of the Gunung Agung volcano.
Uluwatu Temple
Another temple that will leave you speechless and absolutely not to be missed is Uluwatu, and you will find it perched on a sheer cliff some 75 meters above the Java Sea at the southern end of the Island of the Gods. A building surrounded by an unparalleled natural landscape. According to legend, the rocks are part of the boat of the sea goddess, which was said to have been petrified.
The temple has a very special story that it was built to protect the island from evil spirits, but that’s not all. Tradition has it that it hosted the religious Dhang Hyang Dwijendra, who spent the last days of his life there. The best time to visit Uluwatu is at sunset, enjoying the lights and atmosphere that will give you a magical evening of contemplation).
Sunset at Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur), Bali, Indonesia. LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Amed
Who said a simple fishing village couldn’t be a surprise? Amed is located on the northeast coast of the island. Relax, enjoy the sea and the fresh fish, perhaps grilled on the beach. Take a sea excursion on typical boats or go snorkeling or scuba diving. There are several suitable spots in the village, including Lipah Beach and Jemeluk Bay. Here, in addition to the colorful and curious marine life, which could include stars and seahorses or the rare octopus Mimi, you will also find yourself in front of a submerged marine temple.
The absolute protagonist of the region is the Gunung Agung volcano, which is jokingly called “the navel of the world”. Along its slopes, you can admire a tropical forest, but also the characteristic rice terraces. Not to mention that the area offers one of the most beautiful views, especially at sunset.
Watch dolphins at Lovina Beach (North Bali)
If you want to see dolphins in Bali, there is one place they particularly like to go, it’s Lovina Beach!
Of course there are tourists (don’t expect to be alone), but the experience remains magical.
In the early morning, we pick you up at the hotel and head to Lovina Beach aboard a small boat. The dolphins are there quite early and take the opportunity to do a little sport and jump out of the water. It’s really a crazy experience, because it’s the place in the world where I saw the most dolphins at once. They are generally very numerous to come to this beach to play and hunt/eat. If you love dolphins, this is a must-do activity on your trip to Bali.
Nusa Lembongan
This very small island is very popular with holidaymakers for its white sand beaches, its seabed filled with corals and manta rays, its surf spots, its mangroves, and its breathtaking view of Mount Agung. In other words, it’s a real little paradise.
Nusa Penida
If you are looking to dive in Bali, there really is an excursion that I recommend 200%! This is a dive with manta rays in Nusa Penida. With a mask, a snorkel and flippers, the guide takes you to meet the manta rays around Nusa Penida. You won’t be able to get there on your own.
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Kelingking beach, Nusa Penida, Bali. LukeTriton, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
What to do in Bali?
In Bali (especially during the dry season) a whole range of excursions and activities are available to tourists!
Things to do in Bali
Surf
The island, renowned for its waves, offers many surf spots. Among the best known are Utuwatu, Dreamland, Kuta and Padang Padang. The waves are there and welcome beginners and experienced surfers from all over the world all year round.
Scuba diving and snorkeling
Bali is located in the heart of one of the richest marine biodiversity on the planet, which opens the way to nautical activities. Indeed, the Indonesian archipelago on which the island is located is a real treasure for lovers of diving and snorkeling. The marine fauna and the seabed of the island offer visitors colorful shows animated by many species of coral and a multitude of marine animals: turtles, seahorses, manta rays or even sharks. Snorkeling in Bali
Several resorts in Bali offer this type of activity. It is particularly on the side of Amed, in the east of the island, that the most popular diving spots are located. These different sites give the possibility, depending on the level of each, to admire in depth or on the surface what is happening in Balinese waters.
Relaxing at the beach
There are many beautiful beaches in Bali, here are our favorite beaches:
Padang padang beach
Padang Padang is a popular beach for surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Located on the Bukit Peninsula, the golden sandbars are surrounded by lush vegetation and crystal clear waters. To access Padang Padang beach, you will pass by a beautiful temple!
Keramas beach
Keramas beach is one of the most beautiful places in Bali and it owes its beauty to its black sand and the city of Denpasar. This place is also the perfect spot for a surf session, the winds are strong enough to create beautiful waves!
Jimbaran Beach
Perfect for tasting local specialties and admiring the fishing village, Jimbaran beach offers a tranquil setting to relax in peace. Once the sun has set, you can enjoy the local music as the village comes alive! So stay until dark.
Seminyak Beach
This beach is quite popular with tourists but it remains one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, without a doubt! Seminyak beach has the necessary equipment to welcome tourists: deckchairs, parasols… But also restaurants and hotels, the place is perfect for strolling, but if you like tranquility, prefer more peaceful areas! If you like nightlife, Seminyak is the best for you.
Dreamland beach
This beach lives up to its name, Dreamland! Indeed, the setting offered by this place is worthy of a dream and a paradise postcard. Discovered by surfers, Dreamland beach offers a vast expanse of sand surrounded by magnificent and immense cliffs…
Bingin Beach
Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, Bingin retains its wild and natural atmosphere, both underwater and outside! With an exceptional coral reef, Bingin Beach is perfect for scuba diving. On the other hand, no luxury, everything is authentic!
Uluwatu Beach
Uluwatu beach maintains a setting close to mysticism, and this feeling is not insignificant since the Uluwatu Temple is nearby! This beach offers a small piece of sand surrounded by huge cliffs, some lovers sometimes get married there! Another beautiful place to discover!
Green Bowl Beach
Located in the south of Bali, the beach of Green Bowl really lives up to its name since its waters are almost emerald green, with a huge area of greenery. It’s the kind of beach you can’t forget, especially because of its cave inhabited by bats…
Canggu Beach
Good news, Canggu beach is not very popular with tourists, which gives it a very authentic character in Bali. Canggu Beach is special because it offers us several colors and textures of sand. But what I love is the tranquility and peace of the place!
Nusa Dua Beach
Let’s go back to the Bukit peninsula, but to the East! Nusa Dua beach is one of the most beautiful, with calm and gentle waves. Moreover, it is the perfect place to welcome couples and families wishing to stay in one of the luxury resorts. You guessed it, Nusa Dua beach is quite busy with tourists, but it deserves to be seen at least once.
Sanur Beach
The Sanur area is Bali’s oldest resort, with a batch of several beaches with various and varied names. Nevertheless, I recommend Mertasari beach, the ideal place for people who are passionate about surfing and water activities. If you have the opportunity, go to the island of Nusa Penida just in front of the beach, a real treat!
Serangan beach
There is nothing heavenly about Serangan Beach, but it is perfect for hikers and people who like to walk. Personally, I think it deserves to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, with a very natural, wild and completely authentic setting.
Amed beach
If you like fishing villages and fresh fish, Amed Beach is home to many small villages along its length. When you arrive at the edge of Amed beach, it may seem narrow, but not before discovering a huge bay with crystal clear waters… Visit without hesitation!
Lovina beach
Lovina beach is more for swimming and not for water activities. The waters are very gentle with few waves, a perfect place for a family day out. To better appreciate this magnificent Bali beach, book an excursion or a diving session, it’s a must.
Balangan Beach
Notice to all surfing enthusiasts, Balangan beach is a very popular stronghold. Indeed, this beach attracts all the professionals in the world because the waves are considered perfect. Despite the many restaurants and high stilts, Balangan beach remains very wild and natural!
Nyang Nyang Beach
To access one of the few virgin beaches in Bali, you have to earn it. Nyang Nyang Beach requires 20 minutes of walking and effort to enjoy. But once there, you can only enjoy the view, the vast expanse of white sand, the turquoise waters, as well as all the lush and surrounding nature. It is the perfect place to escape the tourists and the bustle.
Gunung Payung Beach
Gunung Payung is a deserted beach located near Kuta. For lovers of tranquility and calm, you will feel in perfect harmony with nature. The beach is surrounded by beautiful rocky cliffs, vegetation and crystal clear blue water! I can honestly tell you that Gunung Payung beach is a private area and little known to mass tourism, so go for it!
Kelingking Beach
Mentioned earlier in this guide, Kelingking beach belongs to the island of Nusa Penida, a place exclusively dedicated to nature lovers. In addition to being one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, Kelingking offers a picturesque setting mixed between white sand and cliffs. In addition, wildlife is very present around the beach, perfect for crossing paths with new species…
Atuh beach
Still on the island of Nusa Penida, Atuh beach is located at the very west of the region. If you want to reach this beach, you will go through a path or stairs. Clearly, Atuh beach is one of the most beautiful in Bali, with multi-hued water, warm sun, white sand and of course, absolute tranquility and peace.
Soka Beach
Volcanic beaches have an undeniable charm! This is certainly why Soka Beach is one of the most beautiful in Bali. Soka is a still very preserved place where calm and tranquility reign. Moreover, the beach is more and more popular, but this does not influence its peaceful and authentic character. To get there, take the road from Gilimanuk located in the northwest of Denpasar.
Kuta Beach
Kuta is a lively beach all day long! Between surfers, families, tourists and schools, do not expect to enjoy the tranquility of the place. Moreover, the afternoons are always punctuated by music and entertainment. Once night falls, the nightlife takes its place: restaurants, bars, discotheques… A perfect place for holidays with friends!
Legian Beach
Like Kuta Beach, Legian Beach is one of the most popular places for young people and partygoers. The setting is the same: nightclub, bars, restaurants, as well as a beach with incredible scenery that you should admire at sunset. Even if tranquility does not exist in Legian, it is still one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali.
Pandawa Beach
Before the 2000s, Pandawa Beach was secret, but that was before. Now, many tourists want to put their towels on the white sand. Nevertheless, I must admit that the decor is perfect, with huge cliffs, crystal clear water, not to mention the small paths rooted in the wild nature…
Hiking
Bali lends itself to the game of hiking in the middle of nature.
The island offers many and always magnificent hiking trails. Among the best known, the ascent of the Batur volcano, that of Mount Agung or the walks in the rice fields of Sidemen. There is enough to want to get lost in these breathtaking natural settings.
Hike Mount Batur or Mount Agung
These are the 2 highest volcanoes on the island accessible from Ubud. It is therefore impossible to leave the island without having climbed one of these peaks. Mount Agun is 3031 meters high while Mount Batur is only 1717 meters high.
How to get to Mount Batur or Mount Agung?
Before leaving, you should know that these two summits are not accessible if you are alone. It is therefore useless to go there by taxi by yourself because you will surely have to turn around.
But you can book online a trek to Mount Batur and see the sunrise with local agents or by yourself.
The simplest and most effective solution is therefore to book your trip in any tourist agency in Ubud (you will see plenty of them along the roads). For the modest sum of 250,000 Rupees (about 20 euros) you will have the bus which will pick you up directly at your hotel and bring you back there.
Enjoy a beautiful walk with a fabulous sunrise (around 7am) at the key (remember to take a bottle of water anyway…).
Things to know before visiting Bali
Where to go? What are the essentials? What do we eat in Bali? What are the uses and customs of the inhabitants of the island? Before you leave for Bali, several questions come to mind, and this is normal. The days on the island are not like those spent in France. In order not to be completely out of step with the Balinese way of life, we advise you to take stock of the local culture, traditions, history, religions practiced there, etc.
Noodles, rice, vegetables… Balinese food has characteristics common to those of the Asian world. It is made up of holy dishes that are heavily vegetarian. Indeed, it is important to know that in Bali the local population is mainly of Hindu and Buddhist faith, so most of the inhabitants do not eat meat. You can still find meat in tourist places and in the typical local dish, nasi-goreng, which contains eggs and chicken. Near the coasts the chances of eating grilled fish multiply. So if you like fish, you are in for a treat!
As far as communication with the local population is concerned, don’t panic! Although the main language spoken is Bahasa Indonesia, the Balinese often speak English. If you have a good command of this language, you will therefore have no trouble making yourself understood.
Know that in Bali you will easily feel like a millionaire: indeed 1€ is equivalent to about 16,000 Indonesian Rupiahs. The cost of living being lower than in Western countries, you benefit from a higher purchasing power.
Sources: VillaCarissa, CleverlySmart, PinterPandai
Photo credit (main picture): febriamar via Pixabay
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