Anyone who says they don’t look for insta-ops when booking their holiday is (quite frankly) not being honest – or is that just us?
From ancient temples and towering mountains to breathtaking waterfalls, endless beaches and ‘to dive for’ infinity pools, there’s no doubt that Bali punches well above its weight when it comes to beautiful destinations. But with so much on offer, it can be hard to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite spots where you’ll have an incredible time and get that perfect shot (or twelve) in the process.
When it comes to a leisurely stroll in Bali, the options are few and far between. Luckily for you, one of our favourite walks also happens to be one of the most beautiful. Located in the heart of Ubud, the iconic Campuhan Ridgewalk takes you on a laidback journey through breathtaking valleys with photo ops and screensaver-worthy backdrops at every turn.
Add a little culture and colour to your feed with a visit to the Tirta Gangga Water Palace. For the best 'grams, jump across the stones that dot the water features and feed the hundreds of colourful Koi fish surrounding you.
Yes, you’ve seen it all over your insta feed but Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida is worth seeing in person, we promise. When you’re not filling your feed with a horizon of sand, sea and sun, make the 60-minute journey down to the beach. You won’t regret it.
Sound good? Check out the ultimate Nusa Penida day trip here.
Pura Luhur Lempuyang
No trip to Bali would be complete without visiting one of the island’s most famous temples. Known as the “Gateway to Heaven”, you’ll need to climb 1,700 steps to reach Pura Lempuyang temple, but trust us when we say the breathtaking views at the top are oh-so worth it.
A no-brainer, this location was instaworthy before insta was a thing. Located in Ubud and loved for its stunning valleys of stair-like rice fields that stretch for miles, the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces is one of those places that has to be seen to be believed.
Handara Golf Course Gate
If you’re heading North, take some time to stop at the iconic Handara Gate. While it’s actually the entrance to a golf resort, this stunning spot has slowly risen to fame and found its rightful place on most Bali bucket lists.
Sorry TLC, it’s time to go and chase some waterfalls. Often referred to as the most beautiful in Bali, Sekumpul Waterfall is well worth the challenging trek to get there. You can hire a local guide to help you get those stunning shots up close, however, we’d say it’s best enjoyed from a distance.
Balangan Beach Viewpoint
Popular with the island’s surfing crowd and anyone looking for a laid-back beach day, Balangan is one of Bali's most picturesque beaches. When you’ve had your fill of sun, sea and surf, head up the cliff to one of Bali’s most iconic (and gram-worthy!) sunset spots. You can thank us later.
Sitting directly below the iconic Single Fin bar, Suluban Beach is the main access point to the world-renowned Uluwatu surf break. Come low tide, the beach transforms into the perfect secret swimming spot – complete with FOMO-inducing turquoise waters and a dramatic cliffside backdrop.
Blue Lagoon Nusa Ceningan
Located a 30-minute boat ride from mainland Bali, Nusa Ceningan’s Blue Lagoon is one of the most photographed spots in all of the Nusa islands – and it’s not hard to see why. Boasting some of the bluest water in the country, this large cove is guaranteed to make everyone at home wish they were living their best life alongside you.
Fancy ticking off some of these locations? Check out our world-famous Instagram tour here.
Written by Rae-Anne Gouyette