It’s been quite some time that I have been postponing the beach call. My last International trip was to Krabi, Thailand, and before that, I visited Vizag (Vishakapatnam). Thank you, everyone, for all your love, support, and curious questions. I am writing this blog a little later than my actual visit, as I was caught up with some personal commitments.

I had a couple of choices in my mind: Andaman Nicobar Islands, Phuket, Dubai, Maldives, and Bali (as it was my first trip after my marriage, gave it quite some thought to make it special and luxurious). Some of the conditions were quite obvious like white and sandy beaches, no overcrowded places, and locations equipped to handle tourists. Apart from just only beaches there should be waterfalls to take the sunrise shots and the roads should be scenic.

So, we decided to make Bali our honeymoon destination. Upon arrival, we were greeted with tropical breezes and the sweet smell of frangipani blossoms. Every morning we had a sumptuous breakfast on our private balcony and enjoyed amazing fresh fruits and traditional Balinese food. We were set up for a romantic dinner on the beach, watching the sun go down in the sky, painting the sky in orange and pink colors whenever it felt like a dream, we couldn’t have imagined a more perfect setting to celebrate our love.

Bali, Indonesia, is the kind of place that steals your heart and refuses to give it back. When I planned my trip in May 2023, I wasn’t just looking for a vacation—I wanted an experience that would immerse me in Bali’s vibrant culture, awe-inspiring nature, and adrenaline-pumping adventures. From the lush rice terraces of Ubud to the turquoise waters of Nusa Penida, every moment felt like a page ripped from a dream. Here’s my detailed Bali itinerary, inspired by my journey and packed with tips to help you plan your own unforgettable adventure.

Why Bali? A Paradise for Every Traveler

Bali is a destination that caters to everyone—whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure junkie. The island blends ancient temples, pristine beaches, and modern amenities seamlessly. My trip, which I booked through platforms like Klook, covered iconic spots like Ubud, Kintamani, Nusa Lembongan, and more. This guide combines my personal experiences with a structured itinerary from May 14–18, 2023, to help you make the most of your Bali adventure.

Pre-Trip Essentials: Getting Ready for Bali

Before diving into the itinerary, let’s talk prep. I opted for a 3G/4G prepaid SIM card (7GB, 30 days) by Telkomsel, delivered to my hotel. Staying connected was a lifesaver for navigation and sharing Instagram-worthy moments. I also arranged airport transfers with an economy 5-seater for a hassle-free arrival. Pro tip: Book these through Klook for convenience and reliability.

Pack light but smart—think breathable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and comfy shoes for temple visits and hikes. Bali’s weather in May is warm and slightly humid, perfect for outdoor adventures.

I read multiple blogs about traveling to Bali and special highlights were Nusa Dua Beach, Balinese culture, luxury villas, private tours, an attractive pool, fantastic sunset views, and beautiful temples. So it was becoming quite hard for us to plan everything in 8-9 days. We decided to pick our favorites and start organizing our customized day trips instead of the ready-made ones. Also, we did not go with any agent or travel packages to avoid any adjustments in our trip.

The first day, we were quite exhausted as the journey was almost 19 hours including flights, stops, immigration and transport so, we decided to take a quick dip in the pool and call it a day. Bali airlines and Bali dps airport are very well equipped to handle tourists, but again, it takes time as usual. Walking on the beach, the sound of the waves at our feet and the twinkling stars above us sparked our excitement for the adventures that awaited us in this tropical paradise

As usual I went with the Holiday Inn and the hospitality was absolutely perfect. Whether it was the warm welcoming smiles of the staff or the lovely welcome messages placed in the room, everyone seemed so welcoming and thoughtful. Check-in was very easy and the formalities were completed in 5 minutes.

Our hotel had a wonderful infinity pool, it worked as a perfect place after long day trips and travelling. The water was crystal clear and it was maintained and kept in perfect position all the time. Most of the travellers were couple, looking for a serene place near to bali airport. Bali hotels and Bali resorts, most of them are very well connected to the public transport and Grab is available almost all the places for quick rides.

I have received multiple requests for the Bali entry visa (e-visa) details, We took the e-visa (e-voa) from the official website, and the visa was issued within a couple of hours. The process was really easy and it can be completed without the help of any professional. The government of Indonesia has developed a smooth process. The Indonesian Rupiah is used as Bali currency, You can easily locate them using any Bali map like Google/Apple Maps.

We spent our mornings exploring local markets, where I indulged in fresh tropical fruits and handmade souvenirs. The warmth and welcoming nature of the Balinese people added to the charm of my experience; their wonderful smiles and traditional greetings made me feel right at home in a different country. As the sun set, the sky changed into a canvas of oranges, purples and different set of colors, creating a magical background for the Kecak fire dance performance I attended in Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park. Every moment in Bali felt like a dream, and I was really eager to discover more of what this enchanting island had to offer us.

The best part of the journey was the trekking to Mount Batur early morning. Though we visited in summer, the weather demanded a shawl/jacket to beat the cold weather. As we set off before dawn, the stars twinkled above, and the air was crisp and refreshing, invigorating our spirits as we navigated the winding paths. The anticipation of witnessing the sunrise over the volcanic landscape filled us with excitement. On the way, we came across locals who shared stories and offered us warm beverages to keep us energized. We took some chocolates, coffee and sandwiches as refreshments. As we climbed higher, the first signs of dawn painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting a wonderful glow on the surrounding mountains Finally reaching the top, the wonderful view made us speechless; The jeeps were parked with great care so that everyone could enjoy the view without disturbance. The sunrise was one of the best views of Bali on the entire trip. The smiles on people’s faces at sunrise were worth a million bucks. The peacefulness of the moment, combined with the breathtaking scenery, made the hike not only a physical challenge, but a deeply spiritual experience that connected us with nature in a way we hadn’t felt before still.

Day 1: Mount Batur 4WD Jeep Sunrise Tour (May 14, 2023)

My Bali adventure kicked off with a pre-dawn start for the Mount Batur 4WD Jeep Sunrise Tour. At 5:00 AM, our guide picked us up in Kintamani and briefed us before we hopped into a rugged 4WD jeep. The drive to the sunrise point was bumpy but exhilarating, with the cool morning air waking me up.

Arriving at the sunrise point, we were greeted by a sky painted in hues of orange and pink as the sun peeked over Mount Batur. Our guide doubled as a photographer, capturing candid shots that still make me smile. Breakfast was simple—think bananas and boiled eggs—but the view made it feel like a gourmet meal.

By 7:30 AM, we embarked on the Batur Black Lava Adventure, exploring the volcanic landscape in the jeep. The stark, otherworldly terrain felt like stepping onto the moon. We wrapped up the morning at the Swing Arena by 10:00 AM, where I tried the famous jungle swing. Soaring over the lush greenery was pure joy, though my stomach did a few flips!

Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the lava fields and bring a light jacket for the chilly morning. Book this tour via Klook for a seamless experience.

Along with Mount Batur, Nusa Penida was enough to make anyone fall in love with Bali. I have never seen any beach that mesmerizing. The crystal blue waters and wonderful waves were enough to make anyone crazy. As I stepped onto the sandy shores of Nusa Penida, I was immediately captivated by the breathtaking cliffs that framed the coastline, their rugged beauty contrasting beautifully with the gentle lapping of the waves. The colorful coral reefs surprised me to explore beneath the surface, where I discovered an underwater life consisting of colorful fish and diverse marine life. Each day was an one of its kind, from snorkeling with majestic manta rays to treking to the iconic Kelingking Beach, broken beach and Angel Billabong, where the view from the top was the best I have seen in my entire life not just Bali.

Day 2: Nusa Penida Tour (May 15, 2023)

Day two was all about island-hopping to Nusa Penida, a gem off Bali’s southeast coast. I joined the West & East Nusa Penida Tour, meeting at Sanur Harbor for a quick ferry ride. Our private car and guide made the day stress-free, covering three iconic spots: Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel Billabong.

Kelingking Beach stole the show with its T-Rex-shaped cliff and turquoise waters below. The hike down is steep, so I opted to admire it from the viewpoint—equally breathtaking. Broken Beach’s natural arch and Angel Billabong’s infinity pool were like scenes from a postcard. Our guide shared local stories, adding depth to each stop.

Tip: Bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited. The roads can be rough, so motion sickness meds might help. Book this tour here.

The tropical breeze wrapped around me like a comforting embrace, creating a sense of peace and satisfaction that I had never experienced before in my life. Each sunset painted a different canvas, reminding me that these moments were fleeting yet unforgettable. My trip to Bali was not just about the places I visited, but also about the connections I forged with fellow travelers and the local culture that welcomed me with open arms.

Day 3: Nusa Lembongan Snorkeling Adventure (May 16, 2023)

By day three, I was ready to dive into Bali’s underwater world with the Nusa Lembongan and Manta Bay Snorkeling Experience. The day started at 9:15 AM at Pelabuhan Sanur, where we caught a ferry to Nusa Lembongan. By 10:00 AM, our guide welcomed us and prepped us for snorkeling at three spots: Manta Bay, Gamat Bay/Crystal Bay, and Toyapakeh Wall.

Snorkeling with manta rays at Manta Bay was a bucket-list moment. They glided beneath me, graceful and massive, while the coral reefs at Gamat Bay burst with color. Toyapakeh Wall’s underwater cliffs were equally mesmerizing. We returned to Sanur by 2:30 PM, sun-kissed and exhilarated.

Tip: Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and a towel. Book this adventure here.

My wife’s favorite was the famous Bali swing. The swing part was completed in an hour, but the photography continued for another two hours.

Day 4: Cultural and Natural Wonders (May 18, 2023)

My final full day was a deep dive into Bali’s cultural and natural treasures. The itinerary included Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Water Palace of Tirtagangga, and the Gate of Heaven Lempuyang Temple. This tour covered areas like Ubud, Kintamani, and beyond, offering a perfect blend of serenity and spirituality.

Tegallalang’s emerald-green rice fields were as stunning as I’d imagined. I wandered the paths, snapping photos and chatting with local farmers. Tukad Cepung Waterfall, hidden in a cave, felt like a secret oasis—its misty spray was refreshing after the hike. Tirtagangga’s water palace was a tranquil escape, with koi-filled ponds and intricate statues.

The day ended at Lempuyang Temple’s Gate of Heaven, where I waited for the perfect shot between the iconic gates. The view of Mount Agung in the background was worth the crowd. This tour, bookable here, was a highlight of my trip.

Tip: Dress modestly for the temple (sarongs are provided) and arrive early to beat the crowds at Lempuyang.

Exploring Bali’s Vibrant Towns

Beyond the planned tours, I spent evenings exploring Bali’s lively towns: Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Canggu, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran. Seminyak’s beach clubs, like Potato Head, were perfect for sunset cocktails. Canggu’s hip cafes, such as Crate Café, served avocado toast that rivaled any brunch spot back home. Jimbaran’s seafood dinners on the beach, with fresh grilled fish and sambal, were unforgettable.

In Ubud, I wandered through the Ubud Art Market, picking up handmade souvenirs, and visited the Monkey Forest, where cheeky macaques kept me on my toes. Each town had its own vibe, from Kuta’s bustling nightlife to Nusa Dua’s upscale resorts.

Foodie Highlights: A Taste of Bali

Bali’s food scene was a journey in itself. I savored nasi goreng at a warung in Ubud, paired with a cold Bintang. In Seminyak, I indulged in a vegan bowl at Kynd Community, bursting with tropical flavors. Jimbaran’s beachside seafood feasts were a highlight—think lobster, prawns, and spicy sambal under the stars. For dessert, I couldn’t resist pisang goreng (fried banana) drizzled with palm sugar.

Tip: Try local warungs for authentic, budget-friendly meals. Always check spice levels if you’re not a fan of heat!

Practical Tips for Your Bali Adventure

  • Best Time to Visit: May is ideal—warm, with fewer crowds than peak season (July–August).
  • Getting Around: Book tours with transfers or rent a scooter if you’re comfortable navigating Bali’s roads.
  • Budget: My trip, including tours, meals, and accommodation, cost around $800–$1,000 for five days (excluding flights).
  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly at temples and ask permission before photographing locals.
  • Stay Safe: Watch out for monkeys in Ubud and stay hydrated during outdoor activities.

Why This Itinerary Works

This itinerary balances adventure, culture, and relaxation, covering Bali’s must-see spots and hidden gems. From the adrenaline of Mount Batur’s sunrise to the serenity of Tirtagangga, every day brought something new. Booking through Klook made logistics a breeze, leaving me free to soak in the magic of Bali.

My trip wasn’t just a vacation—it was a love letter to Bali’s beauty, people, and spirit. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a family trip, this itinerary has something for everyone.

To conclude, the trip to Bali was extremely scenic and luxurious starting from Bali accommodation to day trips. If you liked reading this post like this post, leave a comment down below, and share it with your loved ones.