Bali Travel Guide: Canggu, Beaches & Island Adventures
Experience Bali where sacred temples, rice paddies, black sand beaches, surf breaks and vibrant beach clubs embody Balinese culture and island life.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is an Indonesian Island known for its rich culture, ancient Hindu temples, volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, surf breaks and expat communities. During our two week trip, we ventured to various areas around the island including the relaxing seaside neighborhood of Canggu, the tropical palm covered Gili Islands, the cliffside Bukit Peninsula and cultural hub of Ubud. Whether a local, expat or traveler, Bali is truly a paradise worth visiting and falling in love with.
Canggu
Canggu is a trendy place home to many expats, digital nomads and surf enthusiasts, making it a great place to meet other travelers. Luxury villas, cute shops and vegan cafes flank the narrow streets of the rapidly developing neighborhood. It’s shoreline is hugged by black sand beaches while lush rice paddies grow alongside interior roads. Soak up tropical vibes at beach clubs, enjoy the serene atmosphere at coastal temples and dine at the neighborhoods many restaurants and bars.
Black Sand Beaches
Black sand beaches stretch along Canggu’s coastline. They’re home to numerous surf shacks, restaurants with chair and umbrella rental and bustling beach clubs. Friendly stray dogs roam the beach looking for food and pets.
Batu Bolong & Canggu Beach. Easily the most popular and beautiful beach in Canggu. There are plenty of restaurants, bars and beach clubs to find a lounge for the afternoon, meet other travelers, stay for the sunset and enjoy the overall tropical vibes. Surfers flock to the beginner and intermediate surf breaks while kiosks rent board and offer lessons.
Echo Beach. A black sand beach with a seaside temple and a small cliff lined with cafes, barbecue restaurants and surf rentals. It’s a very popular spot at sunset.
Berawa Beach. A smaller and quieter beach where a river lets out into the ocean. It’s nestled away from the larger clubs and dense line of beach shacks and surf schools. Fishermen boats dot the shore while vendors rent sun lounges and umbrellas.
Beach Clubs & Sunsets
Beach clubs are a very popular way to enjoy the Balinese beaches, escape the afternoon heat and party at night. They can range from small oceanfront shacks offering lounges and drinks to large open air buildings with infinity pools, live music and several bars.
Sand Bar. A small but lively beach club at Batu Bolong Beach with colorful picnic tables and lounges, inexpensive food and ice cold Bintangs, Bali’s regional beer. It’s a great spot to enjoy the sunset and watch surfers.
The Lawn. A casual beachside restaurant known for its faux lawn, infinity pool and palm shaded beach lounges. They serve happy hour cocktails, sharable plates and healthy meals.
Finn’s Beachclub. A large, high-end and popular beach club recognized by it’s giant sign and thatched building. Finn’s is home to several pools, restaurants and bars often playing live music. You pay a hefty cover get in which reserves your lounge or table and can be used towards ordering food and drinks.
Temples & Offerings
The Balinese are very spiritual people, mostly practicing Hinduism. Their island is home to thousands of temples with small altars at the entrance to their homes and businesses. Locals leave daily offerings on sidewalks made from small leaf woven baskets containing flowers, burning incense, cookies, candies and money. Out of respect, make sure not to step on them.
Tanah Lot Temple. One of seven ocean temples surrounding Bali. It holds special importance to the Balinese, built to protect the island from evil sea spirts. The temple is perched on a rock formation only accessible during low tide. Non-Balinese are not allowed to enter but can view from the nearby cliffs and outcrops below. Vendors line the road leading up to the temple selling young coconuts, kleponu, offerings and souvenirs.
Markets & Shops
Craft markets and boutique shops are common across Bali and especially in Canggu. A few we loved visiting for handmade goods and local souvenirs are:
Love Anchor Canggu. An expansive indoor market with booths and vendors selling locally made home goods and crafts like macrame, shell and coconut home goods, flowy dresses and sarongs, beach jewelry and all the expected souvenirs. You’ll often be offered a “special price.” Play along, haggle and never accept the first price.
Sunday Market. A Sunday afternoon and evening market with live music, performers and vendors selling organic produce, cooked foods and hand made goods.
La Brisa Sunday Market. A small but bustling Sunday market at the La Brisa restaurant. It offers a combination of goods found at the Love Anchor and Sunday Markets.
Things to Do
Take a Surf Lesson. The best surf lessons can be found by walking any of Canggu’s beaches. Many instructors and surf sharks have signs offering board rentals and 2 hour lessons. It’s best to go early, just after sunrise, to avoid the large groups.
Join a Beach Cleanup. At times, the currents carry in tons of plastic waste floating in the ocean. Join a beach cleanup or simply do your part to pick up any plastic you see.
Enjoy a Floating Brunch. Making time for a floating brunch is a must do in Bali. It’s a poolside meal artfully presented in a floating basket. It typically includes fresh fruits & juices, fluffy pancakes, eggs and various Balinese bites.
Get a Massage. Various types of massages are offered throughout Canggu and Bali in general for an affordable cost. Look for signs outside of businesses offering 60 minute or signature massage. It’s not uncommon to find one for around $10 USD.
Places to Eat & Drink
Canggu is known for its food scene. There are endless options to try traditional Balinese food, locally grown fruits, vegan meals and Australian inspired “brekkie.”
Shady Shack. Located across from a rice field in an outdoor patio covered in tropical trees and plants. The menu is full of all kinds of colorful and creative vegan dishes. This is the perfect spot to come for Bali bowls and to drink kombucha through a papaya stem straw.
La Brisa. A beachside restaurant with a large open air patio that feels more like a tropical tree house. The food and drinks here are delicious and the vibe was relaxing even during the busier hours of service. Like many places in Canggu, the sunset here was spectacular.
Monsieur Spoon. A cafe with French style pastries, breads, egg dishes. Their spacious outdoor patio makes it the perfect place to start the day or enjoy an afternoon coffee.
Milk & Madu. A great restaurant at any time of day but especially at breakfast for their delicious egg dishes and flavorful coffee.
Where to Stay in Canggu
The narrow streets and rice paddies of Canggu are flanked by multitudes of villas and vacation rentals, many of which can be booked affordably. We stayed at in a modern villa with private units and communal spaces like a lush patio and swimming pool. Book on Airbnb.
Getting Around Canggu
Scooters. The fastest way to get around Canggu is by scooter. Multiple shops rent scooters and moto bikes by the day, week month. Prices range on average $10 per day. For safety and to avoid fines, always wear a helmet while riding any carry your ID.
On Foot. Canggu is walkable by those that enjoy exploring on foot. Be mindful of speeding scooters and cars. Carry a flashlight when walking at night.
Traffic. The narrow roads are often congested during rush hour.
Bukit Peninsula
The Bukit Peninsula is the southern most point in Bali. It’s known for its swimmable beaches, dramatic cliffs, grilled seafood markets and high end restaurants.
Visit the Beaches
We visited a lot of beaches in Bali however the ones on the Bukit Peninsula were some of our favorite!
Padang Padang Beach. A small swimmable beach nestled in a protected cove. The beach is great for sunbathing with little shade, though there are umbrella and chair rentals available form vendors. Warungs offer an affordable snacks, meals and fresh coconuts to drink out of and eat.
Good to Know. The beach is accessible via a set of stairs built within the crevice of the cliff above. There is a small cash only entrance fee to access the beach. Watch out for monkeys on steps and near the tree line. They’re mischievous and will try to snatch your belongings.
Nyang Nyang Beach East. A sandy beach with shallow waters perfect for swimming, lounging and watching paragliders take flight overhead. The most notable sight on the beach is the graffitied remains of a washed up shipwreck. The are a few small warungs along the beach and trail leading to it with an offering snacks and drinks.
Getting Here. The beach is accessible via a lush cliffside trail behind the Villa Plenilunino. Use this Google Map Pin to locate the trailhead.
Nyang Nyang Beach. A remote and lengthy golden sand beach nestled beneath a verdant cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. It's separated into two halves by jagged rocks.
Nyang Nyang Beach West. This beach is perfect for near total seclusion. The sounds of large crashing waves make it a calming place to sunbathe but dangerous to swim. The sandy shoreline transitions into bedrock at the water with rock pools during low tide. The beach is relatively undeveloped through some warungs, bars and hotels have recently popped up selling beverages, snacks and offering a shaded retreat from the sun.
Getting Here. The beach takes some effort to reach. It’s only accessible on foot or by scooter via a steep gravel roadway just beyond the Nyang Nyang Beach Parking Lot.
Things to Do
Nyang Nyang Paragliding. The southern winds hitting Nyang Nyang’s cliff make it an ideal spot for paragliding. Tandem fights soar several hundred feet above the dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline flanked by deep blue ocean. If the conditions are right, the pilot will perform some aerobatics such as spiraling and spinning the parachute. Our flight lasted 20 minutes and included a package of photos and videos. Book ahead of time with Bali Paragliding Tandem.
Jimbaran Seafood. Jimbaran Beach is home to a fishing village lined with restaurants, vendors and kiosks barbecuing all types of freshly caught and live seafood. Smoke wafts through the air from large grills while cooks fan smoldering coconut husks. We shared a platter with a whole crab, prawns, barracuda and oysters plated on a banana leaf.
Good to Know. The best options are located towards the south end of the beach. The seafood is cheaper, the atmosphere is more local and you can dine directly on the beach. Avoid the higher end restaurants towards the north side, they’re tourist traps.
Bali High Tea. For an elevated experience, visit the Orchid Tea Lounge, a tea room in a modern greenhouse decorated with hundreds of blooming orchids. The tea service was especially cute with all the cakes, sandwiches and treats either wrapped in or served on banana leafs. Make a reservation ahead of time.
Getting Around Bukit
The Bukit Peninsula is a remote area of Bali accessible by car and scooter. It’s hilly landscape and congested roads makes it difficult and time consuming to get around.
By Taxi. Hire a taxi driver while exploring the peninsula. They will wait for you after drops offs and be on call to pick you up. Taxis typically cost between $30-50 USD per day. Make sure to negotiate price ahead of time.
Rent a Scooter. Like throughout the rest of Bali, you can get around on a scooter. The only difference in the peninsula is that most places charge a small parking fee between $1-2 USD.
Where to Stay in Bukit
Magical Vintage Treehouse. A rustic treehouse surrounded by a massive mango tree with branches that poke through the walls, floor boards and ceiling. There is a shared pool between the treehouse and neighboring villas as well as a restaurant and bakery serving a mix of fresh fruits, traditional Balinese and French cuisine. Book on Airbnb.
The Gili Islands
The Gili Islands, often called “The Gilis” are a series of three tiny islands off the coast of Lombok. Their sleepy atmosphere and unique vibes make them relaxing places to experience Indonesian culture and the tropical environment. We spent four days here but could have easily stayed for weeks.
Gili Trawangan. Also known as “Gili T,” this is the largest of the The Gilis. It’s the most popular place to stay with many boutique hotels, vacation rentals, seaside restaurants, outdoor cafes and beachfront bars. The main town spans across the eastern side of the island while lush palm groves cover its interior. Colorful boats and outriggers line white sand beaches wrapping around the island’s perimeter.
Gili Air. A largely developed island with numerous options for accommodations, dining, nightlife and marine activities. It’s located just across from Lombok with uninterrupted views of Mt. Rinjani.
Gili Meno. The smallest, quietest and most relaxing of The Gilis. It’s located in between Gili T and Gil Air. Its home to white sand beaches, turquoise waters, snorkeling points, palm groves, local warangs and rental villas.
Gili T Beaches
The island is essentially one giant beach paradise! Based on location, here’s our breakdown to exploring the different corners of the island.
Eastern Coast. The most commercialized coastline on the island spanning the length of the town. Its easily accessible and lined with hundreds of sun lounges, beach umbrellas and small boats. Its white sand shore is perfect for sunbathing while its shallow turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and lounging.
Turtle Point. Located on the northeast corner of the island, this is the best place to spot sea turtles! The shallow warm waters are home to sea grass where sea turtles feed. Rent a standup paddle or kayak and quietly wait in the water for a turtle to swim by. Arrive before 10am to avoid the large crowds and loud boats from the snorkel tours.
Northern Coast. Most beaches here are private for guests of the nearby resorts and hotels.
Northwestern Coast. Beaches here attract smaller crowds than elsewhere on the island making them a peaceful place to relax. There are numerous beachfront restaurants and bars offering places to dine and drink.
Southwestern Coast. An area with the best views of Bali’s silhouette and Indian Ocean sunsets. Many diving tours frequent the waters on this side of the island to spot manta rays and sharks.
Southern Coast. A narrow stretch of shoreline covered in piles of washed up corals.
Things to Do
Snorkeling Tour. Many restaurants, dive schools and guides along the main street on Gili T will offer inexpensive snorkel tours around The Gilis. We snorkeled around the coast of Gili Meno where we spotted an incredible array of tropical fish, jumped from the boat’s rooftop and visited The Nest, an artificial reef comprised of human figures standing in a circle. After snorkeling, we stopped at Gili Air for a beachfront lunch.
Acrylic Kayaking. Rent an acrylic kayak and paddle around Turtle Point to spot sea turtles feeding in the sea grass.
Pro Tip. Select the kayak with minimal scratches on the bottom. The more scratches, the less you’ll actually be able to see though it.
Stand Up Paddle. Rent a stand up paddle and explore the strait between Gili T and Gili M. The water is usually calm making it easy to balance. This was another fun way to spot sea turtles.
Watch the Sunset. There are a number of beach clubs, restaurants and hotels with lounges, ocean swings and patios on the west and southwest sides of the island to watch the sunset.
Get a Bamboo Tattoo. A bamboo tattoo is a traditional hand poked tattoo. Visit NoA The Master of the Bamboo Tattoo for some new ink. The process is sanitary and clean. We watched the artist disinfect all of his tools and present us with the an unopened package containing the needles he used for our tattoos. It’s worth it for the authentic experience!
Take a Cooking Class. One of the best meals we had on Gili T was the one we cooked ourselves. Several beachfront restaurants in town offer 2 hour cooking classes to prepare multiple Indonesian staples including: Fried Tempe and Tofu, Mie Goreng, Pepes Ikan and Klepon.
Places to Eat & Drink
Le Pirate. A small resort on the northwest of the island with a beachfront restaurant serving Indonesian dishes and freshly harvest coconuts. Come here for lunch while biking around the island!
Tiki Grove. A tiki themed restaurant located in the palm covered interior of the island. Come for the fish tacos, live music and traditional tiki drinks.
Pink Coco. A beach club on the southwest side of the island with pink colored decor and beanbags lining the sand. It’s a popular place to watch the sunset while sipping on a Bintang or cocktail.
Where to Stay in Gili T
Melati Cottage. A traditional hotel with several wooden cottages located steps from the beach. The simple cottages each have a comfy bed, outdoor shower and deck front patio. The hosts offer daily bike rentals and pick up from the ferry terminal. Book on Airbnb.
Getting Around The Gilis
Speed Boats. Speed boats are the fastest, safest and most hassle free way to get between Bali and the Gili Islands. There are a number of companies and departure points along the East side of Bali offering transportation from anywhere on the island to The Gilis. We booked roundtrip tickets with Blue Water Express.
Island Hopping. Public boats ferry passengers between each island’s main harbors at infrequent times from 9am and 4pm. Standard Boats takes about 30 minutes and cost around $5 one way. Fast Boats take about 15 minutes and cost around $10 one way.
Rent a Bike. Cars are forbidden on The Gilis making bicycles the most efficient way of getting around. The largest of the islands, Gili T can be crossed in 15 minutes or circled in under an hour. Most accommodations rent bikes for around $5-10 USD per day.
Indonesian Cuisine
Warungs. An Indonesian style restaurant serving a buffet of dishes and prepared plates. They’re often spotted along the roadside offering inexpensive meals and traditional Balinese cuisine.
Bali Bowls. Also called smoothie bowls, they’re made from mixtures of puréed frozen fruits and often decorated in fresh fruit, grains and flowers. They’re a healthy, filling and refreshing way to start the day. Almost every cafe offers their own versions.
Klepon. A green gelatinous rice ball with melted palm sugar inside and a coconut shaved exterior.
Nasi Goreng. Vegetable fried rice, an Indonesian staple commonly served on menus around the country. It’s a popular breakfast dish.
Mi Goreng. The same as nasi goreng, except made with noodles instead of rice.
Gado Gado. Lightly steamed or boiling vegetables served with a spicy peanut sauce.
Batagor. Fried banana, tempe or tofu stuffed with glass noodles and veggies. It’s a very common street food dish in East Java and eaten for breakfast or a mid day snack.
Tempeh. Fermented and spouted soybeans formed into a protein patty or block. A common preparation is Tempeh Lada Hitam, tempeh cooked in a black pepper sauce.
Sayur Lodeh. A spiced coconut stew cooked with tempeh, eggplant, tomatoes and green beans.
Bintang. Indonesia’s national beer. It’s a light beer perfect for the perpetually hot afternoons and evenings.
Sambal. Indonesians love spicy food. The source of the heat is often sambal, a minced mixture of Thai chili peppers, shallots and garlic.
Location Specifics
When to Visit. Visit during the dry season, from May to October. The weather is sunny and bright most days with the occasional afternoon storm.
Plastic Pollution. With few methods for waste management and recycling, plastic waste and trash often make their way into the waterways, littering beaches, the coast and ocean.
Shoes Off Indoors. Like many places in Asia, it’s proper to remove shoes before entering home or some shops.
Use Both Hands. When ever exchanging anything like credit cards or cash, use both hands as a sign of respect.
Currency. Indonesia uses the Indonesian Rupiah. The currency is quantified in the thousands. Many businesses will drop the zeros on a bill. For example, something costing 56,000 Rp may be written as 50.
Small Bills. Carry a lot of smaller bills (5K,10K and 20K) for donations and small fees.
Tipping. 10% Gratuities are usually included in the bill under service. Anything extra is not expected.
General Safety. Bali is generally a safe place to travel too. The biggest dangers are traffic, natural disasters and overcrowded boats.
LGBTQ+ Safety. While Bali is very friendly and welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers, Indonesian laws and customs are not. Stay up to date with the latest laws and suggestions while traveling. Refer to our guide on LGBTQ+ Travel Safety for more advice.
Language. Bahasa Indonesian is the official language in Bali however many people know English. It’s best to know a few local words and phrases.
Sukseme = Thank You
Sama Sama = You’re Welcome
Selamat Pagi = Good Morning
Selamat Siang = Good Afternoon
Selamat Sore = Good Evening
Elsewhere in Indonesia
From Bali's beaches and island lifestyle to Ubud's cultural heritage, East Java's volcanoes and the Komodo Islands' wild landscapes, discover more of Indonesia through these travel guides:
Komodo Islands Travel Guide: Komodo Dragons, Island Adventures & Marine Life. Explore the Komodo Islands where Komodo dragons, volcanic landscapes, pink sand beaches and coral reefs blend wildlife encounters with island hopping adventures.
East Java Travel Guide: Mount Bromo, Ijen & Tumpak Sewu. Trek through East Java from Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, where volcanic landscapes and jungle trails reveal Indonesia's dramatic natural wonders.
Ubud Travel Guide: Rice Terraces, Sacred Temples & Balinese Culture. Wander through Ubud where expansive rice terraces, jungle trails, volcanic hikes, Hindu temples and the Sacred Monkey Forest preserve the cultural heart of Bali.
For Next Time…
There are near endless things to do and see in Bali. It’s unique culture, nature and atmosphere is a place we certainly hope to experience again. When we do, these are a number of the things we’re planing to seek out.
Nusa Islands. An archipelago of three volcanic islands in the strait between Bali and Lombok. Its famed for its manta rays, cliff diving points and Kelingking Beach, a beach on Nusa Penida with a T-rex shaped peninsula.
The Gilis. We could have spent weeks on The Gilis. Having throughly explore Gili T, we would return to experience Gili Air and Gili Meno.
Uluwatu. An area of the Bukit Peninsula cliffside beaches like Suluban and Balangan and one of Bali’s most scared sites, the Uluwatu Temple, where it’s believed that the Hindu gods, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva become here.
West Bali Park. A largely untouched wildlife refuge and jungle on the western side of Bali. The route leading here is dotted with coastal towns and jungleous villages.
Ubud’s Temples. We would spend more time exploring the ancient temples in Ubud including:
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. A series of floating water temples on Lake Bratan assessable by canoe.
Pura Taman Saraswati. A palace water temple surrounded by a large lily ponds where the traditional Balinese Legong dance is performed.
Goa Gajah. A 9th century cave temple with extensive carvings and entrance through the overgrown mouth of a demon.
Ubud Travel Guide: Rice Terraces, Sacred Temples & Balinese Culture
Wander through Ubud where expansive rice terraces, jungle trails, volcanic hikes, Hindu temples and the Sacred Monkey Forest preserve the cultural heart of Bali.
Ubud, The Cultural Heart of Bali
Ubud is the cultural heart and adventurous hub of Bali. The region is home to thousands of Hindu temples, ancient sites and Balinese museums where traditions, spirituality and nature merge as one. Hiking trails lead along verdant ridges and to the summits of active volcanos. Expansive rice terraces and sprawling rice paddies sculpt the landscape and serve as a base for Indonesian cuisine. Eco hotels nestled within the verdant jungle provide one of a kind accommodations. We spent several days exploring Ubud during our two week trip to Bali, experiencing the island’s remarkable culture and nature.
Eco Tourism
People in Ubud are physically and spiritually connected to nature. They care for their environment, eat, build and farm sustainably. This couldn’t have been any truer than at the eco hotel where we stayed, New Earth Haven. For five days, we lived in an eco-dome made from bamboo, canvas and thatched palm leaves. Separately it had an outdoor shower and compositing toilet. The dome was surrounded by rice fields and elevated from the ground. During our stay, we would often wake up to the farmers harvesting rice and herding baby ducks.
From eco-domes to tree houses and villas in the rice patties, there are plenty of unique and sustainable places to stay in Ubud. Book your stay in Moonstone Crystal Eco Dome on Airbnb.
Across the rice paddies from our dome is the Akasha Restaurant. An open air restaurant focused on sustainability and vegan cuisine with nightly events and festivals. We came here for many of our meals including smoothie bowls, jackfruit tacos and Indonesian coffee.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are an expansive series of hillside rice paddies that meander organically across the landscape. Trails and walkways weaves through the terraces to lookout points, zip lines and jungle swings. We spent hours exploring the terraces and hiking to its furthers corners. At the entrance is a hillside village with restaurants, warungs, cafes and hostels overlooking the terraces. Stop here for breakfast or lunch.
Pro Tip. Arrive at the rice terraces by 7am to explore with minimal people and before the large tour groups.
Good to Know. Farmers will often ask for a small donation to help support their livelihoods and maintain the walkways. Its best to donate 5k Rp each time.
Sunrise Hike to Mt. Batur
Mt. Batur is Bali’s second highest peak and still an active volcano. One of the most adventurous things you can do on the island is hike to its summit and watch the sunrise. Wake up just after midnight and drive to the basecamp at the lakeside town of Toya Bungkah. There will be hundreds of guides available for hire. Guides generally cost around 500K - 700K Rp for two people ($35-50 USD).
The Summit. The entire island of Bali and the nearby island of Lombok are visible from the summit on a clear morning. Hardened lava flows from past eruptions surround the volcano while steam rises from volcanic vents. Wild monkeys roam freely around the crater rim. Vendors sell hot chocolate, coffee, water and various snacks including eggs cooked in the steam vents. Try one if you can, there’s something special about food cooked by a volcano!
Packing List:
Shoes. Wear good hiking shoes for traction. The pathways are covered in loose stones gravel.
Wear Layers. It is colder the higher you hike in elevation but easy to overheat once the sunrises.
Headlamps. Wear a headlamp to see in the darkness while hiking.
Water. Carry at least 1.5 liters of water for the hike.
Cash. Bring local currency to buy snacks or drinks at the summit.
Sacred Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest is covered in massive trees with dangling aerial roots, multiple ancient temples and acts as a sanctuary for hundreds of monkeys. The monkeys are everywhere, climbing in the trees, running across pathways, sitting on benches and making the temples their home. They are playful, mischievous and protective. If you’re not paying attention, one may try and take your phone, bag or hat.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is an easy, scenic and lush 2km pathway on top of the Campuhan Ridge. To avoid the sun, we walked the path about two hours before sunset ending during golden hour. Enter on the north side, where there are a number of businesses selling fruit, water, Bintangs and offering massages. End on the south side at the ancient Pura Gunung Lebah Temple.
Tirta Empul Water Temple
The Tirta Empul Water Temple is a 15th century temple with fountains and baths fed by a natural spring. It has a special importance to the Balinese for its purifying and healing waters. The best way to properly use them is to pay a temple guide for a handmade offering and ask them to explain the ritual process and meaning behind it. It’s well worth the experience to step out of your comfort zone, experience and reflect on whatever you’re thankful for.
Packing List:
A Sarong. Like with many temples across Bali, you need a sarong to cover up with before entering. They’re also available to rent.
A Towel. To dry off with after bathing in the cleansing waters.
A Lock. To secure your belongings in the lockers.
Visit the Museums
There are multiple museums showcasing Balinese art, artifacts and architecture throughout Ubud. The museums themselves are as much about the grounds and their temples as they are the artwork and artifacts within.
Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA). A grand museum with galleries of artwork and painting created by Balinese artists. The gardens and grounds line with sculptures, temples and pavilions where we watched artists painting and carving elaborate wooden reliefs and sculptures.
Other museums include the Museum Puri Lukisan and Neka Art Museum.
Satria Agrowisata
The Satia Agrowisata is famed for its Luwak Coffee. If you’re unfamiliar, the beans go through quite the process before becoming coffee. The coffee cherries are eaten by civets, a nocturnal cat-like mammal, then partially digested and poop out. The beans are collected and roasted in small batches before being ground and turned into coffee. It’s an unappealing process but does result in a rich, mellow and flavorful brew worth trying at least once.
Mason Elephant Park & Lodge
Mason Elephant Park is home to a herd of rescued Sumatran elephants. We came here to meet, feed and bathe one while it snacked on bamboo.
Elephant Feeding & Bathing. After entering the park, we bought small baskets of produce to feed the elephants. It’s the cutest feeling as the use their trunks to take the food from your hands! After feeding, we met Risky, the elephant we scrubbed and bathed from trunk to tail. By the end of the experience, we felt like we had made a new friend but also needed a shower ourselves.
Avoid Elephant Riding. Many other visitors came to ride an elephant, something we didn’t ethically agree with and would discourage others from doing. Otherwise, the elephants seemed to be treated humanely, well fed and given space to roam.
Buy an Elephant Painting. Elephants are highly intelligent, creative and social animals. They can even use their trunks to paint. The park has a museum with elephant paintings on display and available for purchase. Needless to say, we now have a painting made by an adolescent elephant named Jegeg hanging in our bedroom.
Places to Eat & Drink
Mudra Cafe. A very cute cafe nearby the Monkey Forest offering the most stunning Bali style smoothie bowls and Indonesian coffee in tiki mugs.
Hujan Locale. An elevated and contemporary Indonesian restaurant serving regional cuisine, flavorful dishes and artisan cocktails. We shared a couple appetizers end enjoyed the prawn and crispy whole fish as dinner mains.
Jungle Fish. The best way to describe this place is a beach club in the middle of the jungle. The restaurant has an infinity pool overlooking the lush rainforest and multiple levels. The pool bar offers a selection of small plates and 2 for 1 drinks. We sampled every cocktail on the menu falling in love with one wrapped in banana leaves.
Getting Around Ubud
Many accommodations in Ubud will help arrange transportation for you, especially to and from other areas of the island. Ubud and the surrounding area is vast and hilly making scooters and taxis the easiest way to get around. We often took Bluebird Taxi, known for its metered service, flat fees and street-side taxi stands.
Indonesian Cuisine
Warungs. An Indonesian style restaurant serving a buffet of dishes and prepared plates. They’re often spotted along the roadside offering inexpensive meals and traditional Balinese cuisine.
Bali Bowls. Also called smoothie bowls, they’re made from mixtures of puréed frozen fruits and often decorated in fresh fruit, grains and flowers. They’re a healthy, filling and refreshing way to start the day. Almost every cafe offers their own versions.
Klepon. A green gelatinous rice ball with melted palm sugar inside and a coconut shaved exterior.
Nasi Goreng. Vegetable fried rice, an Indonesian staple commonly served on menus around the country. It’s a popular breakfast dish.
Mi Goreng. The same as nasi goreng, except made with noodles instead of rice.
Gado Gado. Lightly steamed or boiling vegetables served with a spicy peanut sauce.
Batagor. Fried banana, tempe or tofu stuffed with glass noodles and veggies. It’s a very common street food dish in East Java and eaten for breakfast or a mid day snack.
Tempeh. Fermented and spouted soybeans formed into a protein patty or block. A common preparation is Tempeh Lada Hitam, tempeh cooked in a black pepper sauce.
Sayur Lodeh. A spiced coconut stew cooked with tempeh, eggplant, tomatoes and green beans.
Bintang. Indonesia’s national beer. It’s a light beer perfect for the perpetually hot afternoons and evenings.
Sambal. Indonesians love spicy food. The source of the heat is often sambal, a minced mixture of Thai chili peppers, shallots and garlic.
Location Specifics
When to Visit. Visit during the dry season, from May to October. The weather is sunny and bright most days with the occasional afternoon storm.
Plastic Pollution. With few methods for waste management and recycling, plastic waste and trash often make their way into the waterways, littering beaches, the coast and ocean.
Shoes Off Indoors. Like many places in Asia, it’s proper to remove shoes before entering home or some shops.
Use Both Hands. When ever exchanging anything like credit cards or cash, use both hands as a sign of respect.
Currency. Indonesia uses the Indonesian Rupiah. The currency is quantified in the thousands. Many businesses will drop the zeros on a bill. For example, something costing 56,000 Rp may be written as 50.
Small Bills. Carry a lot of smaller bills (5K,10K and 20K) for donations and small fees.
Tipping. 10% Gratuities are usually included in the bill under service. Anything extra is not expected.
General Safety. Bali is generally a safe place to travel too. The biggest dangers are traffic, natural disasters and overcrowded boats.
LGBTQ+ Safety. While Bali is very friendly and welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers, Indonesian laws and customs are not. Stay up to date with the latest laws and suggestions while traveling. Refer to our guide on LGBTQ+ Travel Safety for more advice.
Language. Bahasa Indonesian is the official language in Bali however many people know English. It’s best to know a few local words and phrases.
Sukseme = Thank You
Sama Sama = You’re Welcome
Selamat Pagi = Good Morning
Selamat Siang = Good Afternoon
Selamat Sore = Good Evening
Elsewhere in Indonesia
From Ubud's rice terraces and Hindu temples to Bali's coastline, East Java's dramatic volcanoes and the Komodo Islands' marine adventures, continue your journey through Indonesia these travel guides:
Komodo Islands Travel Guide: Komodo Dragons, Island Adventures & Marine Life. Explore the Komodo Islands where Komodo dragons, volcanic landscapes, pink sand beaches and coral reefs blend wildlife encounters with island hopping adventures.
East Java Travel Guide: Mount Bromo, Ijen & Tumpak Sewu. Trek through East Java from Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, where volcanic landscapes and jungle trails reveal Indonesia's dramatic natural wonders.
Bali Travel Guide: Canggu, Beaches & Island Adventures. Experience Bali where sacred temples, rice paddies, black sand beaches, surf breaks and vibrant beach clubs embody Balinese culture and island life.
For Next Time…
There are near endless things to do and see in Bali. It’s unique culture, nature and atmosphere is a place we certainly hope to experience again. When we do, these are a number of the things we’re planing to seek out.
Nusa Islands. An archipelago of three volcanic islands in the strait between Bali and Lombok. Its famed for its manta rays, cliff diving points and Kelingking Beach, a beach on Nusa Penida with a T-rex shaped peninsula.
The Gilis. We could have spent weeks on The Gilis. Having throughly explore Gili T, we would return to experience Gili Air and Gili Meno.
Uluwatu. An area of the Bukit Peninsula cliffside beaches like Suluban and Balangan and one of Bali’s most scared sites, the Uluwatu Temple, where it’s believed that the Hindu gods, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva become here.
West Bali Park. A largely untouched wildlife refuge and jungle on the western side of Bali. The route leading here is dotted with coastal towns and jungleous villages.
Ubud’s Temples. We would spend more time exploring the ancient temples in Ubud including:
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. A series of floating water temples on Lake Bratan assessable by canoe.
Pura Taman Saraswati. A palace water temple surrounded by a large lily ponds where the traditional Balinese Legong dance is performed.
Goa Gajah. A 9th century cave temple with extensive carvings and entrance through the overgrown mouth of a demon.
East Java Travel Guide: Mount Bromo, Ijen & Tumpak Sewu
Trek through East Java from Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, where volcanic landscapes and jungle trails reveal Indonesia's dramatic natural wonders.
East Java, Indonesia
Situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, East Java is the land of dramatic landscapes. Fuming volcanos, picturesque waterfalls, verdant jungles and grassy savannas cover the region. East Java’s fertile landscape is a hub for agriculture. Farmers cultivate lush rice terraces while trucks carry loads of harvested sugarcane, cassava, bananas and coconuts. Cities and villages offer a glimpse into Indonesian culture. Chaotic scenes of moto bikes speed down two lane streets. The Islamic call to prayer echos from domed mosques. Warungs serve affordable local bites while cafes brew Javanese coffee.
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
Tumpak Sewu is a massive waterfall formed by dozens of streams spilling over a crescent shaped canyon into the river below. The lush canyon is covered in moss, ferns, bamboo and palm trees. Semeru Mountain rises through the clouds in the background as mist blows in all directions. It’s Java’s largest waterfall and a true natural marvel.
The waterfall is viewable from an observation deck at the canyon rim and from the riverbed at its base. A trail leads to the base following a series of makeshift staircases and metal ladders. They cross over flowing streams, small waterfalls and through the river. From the base, the canyon and waterfall surrounded us like a panorama as cooling mist drenched us.
Goa Tetes Cave. A cave beyond a waterfall with dripping rock formations and a smaller waterfall within. It’s reachable by following a trail down the canyon from Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. The trail is scenic, with several small waterfalls pouring over the verdant canyon’s walls.
Wisata View Kapas Biru. A panoramic viewpoint from the top of a small waterfall, looking across a river canyon towards another waterfall. The opposite waterfall streams from a crevice in the crescent shaped cliff, surrounded by lush jungle on all sides.
Good to Know. Be prepared to get soaking wet! Come with a change of clothes for after the hike. Bring or rent water shoes for 20K Rp.
Getting Here. The waterfall is located 2 hours from Malang. We booked a driver and guide with Smartway Indonesia Tours on Viator to bring us here and back.
Ijen Volcano
Ijen Volcano is famed for its electric blue flames, turquoise lagoon and sulphur mines. Sunrise hikes starting in the middle of the night lead to its active crater and picturesque caldera.
Ijen Volcano Hike. The hike up the volcano’s slopes and into its crater begins at 2am when the park’s gates open. The wide trail is moderately steep but levels out just before the descent into the crater. The narrow trail into the crater meanders down rocky steps and loose gravel. The smell of sulphuric gases becomes intense without a gas mask. The trail can take 1-2 hours depending on speed and position amongst other hikers.
Ijen Blue Flames. At the base of the crater between plumes of sulphuric gas are the electric blue flames. A small viewing area offers close up access to them. The flames seem to flow and dance down the rocky hill, sometimes jumping along the ground. Their characteristic blue color is a result of the hot burning sulphuric gases released by the volcano.
Pro Tip. Avoid using a flash light around the blue flames. It’s better to experience their glow without excess light. Politely ask others to do the same.
Ijen Crater Lake. The crater rim offers picturesque views of turquoise colored lake and sunrise. The viewpoint is reachable after a 30 to 45 minute hike up from the blue flames. As daylight breaks, the bright colored lagoon at the bottom of the crater comes into view. Gases fume from the volcanic vents as clouds roll over the lush hillside. The sun light illuminates nearby volcanos and colors the sky in a combination of pastel tones. Alternatively, the crater lake is viewable from the sulphur mines near the blue flames. This is a good spot to stay if unable to reach the rim for sunrise in time.
Sulphur Mines. The volcanic vents surrounding the lagoon are hand mined for sulphur. Local miners live on the volcano under hazardous conditions to harvest the mineral, referred to as “the devil’s gold.” Vibrant yellow deposits are scattered across the ground and collected in baskets lining the trail. We visited on Satu Suro, the Javanese Islamic New Year. It’s one of the few days that miners take to rest. As a result, our guide introduced us to his father, Arifin, an experienced miner and local legend. He showed us the capsule sized space he sleeps in and a brief documentary about his work. Watch on Coconuts TV.
Hire A Guide. Though it’s possible to visit on your own, we visited with a guide for the additional safety and ease of coordination. We booked with East Java Paradise Travel on Viator.
Be First. 3,000 people are permitted to enter the volcano daily, often resulting in a bottle neck of hikers along the trail. Furthermore, the area around the blue flames is very small. The best way to enjoy seeing them safely and unobstructed is to wait at the gate early and hike ahead of everyone else.
Medical Check. Prior to beginning the hike, local officials require all visitors to undergo a brief medical exam, checking blood pressure, blood oxygen levels and temperature.
Gas Masks. A proper fitting gas mask is strongly recommended. Rent one or make sure it’s included with your tour. The volcanic fumes are toxic and highly concentrated around the blue flames.
Proper Gear. Wear layers for the cooler nighttime temperatures and shoes with good treads. Being a headlamp or flashlight to see. Hiking poles are helpful but not necessary.
Mount Bromo
Mount Bromo is one of East Java’s most active volcanos! Its ancient crater rim surrounds volcanic cinder cones and a billowing caldera. The island’s tallest volcano, Semeru Mountain, towers in the background erupting with frequent puffs of black ash.
Mount Bromo Sunrise. A popular time to visit Mount Bromo is for the sunrise. Tours from Malang starts around midnight. It’s followed by a 3 hour drive to the volcano village and a transfer to a 4x4 vintage Toyota Land Cruiser. The final hour leads across the sand sea and up the north crater rim to the lookout points. We sat below “King Kong Hill.” There are cafes selling coffees, noodles in cups and renting heavy coats. It wasn’t the clearest morning. The sunrise was blocked by clouds and the volcanos were covered in a blanket of fog. Their still visible silhouettes had a mystical view. Mount Bromo constantly billowed out clouds of white smoke while Semeru Mountain erupted with puffs of black ash.
The Sand Sea. The Sand Sea is the black sand lava field surrounding the cinder cones within the ancient crater’s walls. Hundreds of colorful Land Cruisers park here while visitors walk or ride pony’s across the landscape to Mt. Bromo’s smoldering crater. Passing Mount Batok, a shrub covered cinder cone, we reached the blackened base of Mount Bromo. Locals sell colorful bouquets of dried flowers, which any people leave as offerings to the volcano.
Mount Bromo Crater Rim. A 250 step staircase leads up Mount Bromo’s crater walls to the rim. The rim offers views into the fuming vent of the volcano. Hissing steam and gases roar from within the crater. Black scared rocks and bright yellow sulphur deposits cover its steep walls. Remnants of offerings, mostly flowers and cooked rice were visible along the steep inner slops.
Getting Here. We hired a guide with round trip transportation from Malang. It was the easiest way to see the volcanos. Book with Cheap Bromo on Viator.
Good to Know. Wear layers and warm clothes. The temperature is often cold in the early morning at the high elevation. Remove layers as the day warms up.
Baluran National Park
One of the lesser known natural sights in East Java is the Baluran National Park. It encompasses landscapes like volcanos, savanna, forest, mangroves and beaches, each home a variety of wild animals and endemic species.
Bekol Savanna. A vast grassland with bushes and broadleaf trees home to heards of wild animals like buffalo, deer and monkeys. It sits against the towering backdrop of the Baluran and Ijen Volcanos. With binoculars and camera in hand, we spotted wildlife. Large buffalo stood covered in mud as they grazed in the grasslands. Hundreds of deer gathered together. Fawns chased each other, stopping to breast feed from their mothers. Bucks spared while others feed, lifting their heads above the grass to reveal a crown of shrubs stuck in their antlers.
Evergreen Forest. A section of the park with vibrant green foliage supported by an underground river. A road leads through its dense canopy in route to the savanna.
Bama Beach. A natural beach with a coral sand shore, hardened black lava flows, a mangrove forest and tide pools. Troops of wild monkeys scavenger for shell fish during low tide.
Coastal Fringe. A lush forested zone between the savanna and coast. Its trees are home to hornbill toucans, colorful peacocks and monkeys. We watched a family of Javan Lutung (ebony monkeys), including a mother with her orange haired infant, jump from tree to tree.
Book a Safari. One of the best ways to visit is on Safari Tour. We booked half day safari with Epic Escapes Indonesia. on Get Your Guide.
Indonesian Cuisine
Nasi Goreng. Vegetable fried rice, an Indonesian staple commonly served on menus around the country. It’s a popular breakfast dish.
Mi Goreng. The same as nasi goreng, except made with noodles instead of rice.
Gado Gado. Lightly steamed or boiling vegetables served with a spicy peanut sauce.
Batagor. Fried banana, tempe or tofu stuffed with glass noodles and veggies. It’s a very common street food dish in East Java and eaten for breakfast or a mid day snack.
Tempeh. Fermented and spouted soybeans formed into a protein patty or block. A common preparation is Tempeh Lada Hitam, tempeh cooked in a black pepper sauce.
Sayur Lodeh. A spiced coconut stew cooked with tempeh, eggplant, tomatoes and green beans.
Bintang. Indonesia’s national beer. It’s a light beer perfect for the perpetually hot afternoons and evenings.
Sambal. Indonesians love spicy food. The source of the heat is often sambal, a minced mixture of Thai chili peppers, shallots and garlic.
Where to Stay
We hopped around East Java every couple of days staying in Malang, Banyuwangi and Surabaya.
Kosasih 1919. A small bed and breakfast in central Banyuwangi with spacious rooms, lush gardens and a communal kitchen. The hosts and their traditional breakfasts were the highlights! Reserve on Booking.
Malang City Point Apartments. A simple and cozy two bedroom apartment located in the Malang City Point Mall. The mall was great for grocery shopping, local bites and cafes. Book on Airbnb.
Cordia Hotel Surabaya Airport. During our travel days into and out of Surabaya, we stayed the night at a airport hotel. It’s located in terminal 1 with retro rooms and views of the runway. The hotel has its own terrace coffee bar and includes breakfast. Reserve on Booking.
Getting Around
Grab or Gojek. The two competing taxi apps are Grab and Gojek. Both offer affordable rides getting around within and between cities. Inner city rides range from $1 to $10. Longer distances, such as Surabaya to Malang cost around $40 and take 1 hour 30 minutes.
KAI Trains. East Java has an efficient and affordable train system with routes leading to destinations across the island. We booked tickets traveling between Malang, Banyuwangi and Surabaya. Tickets cost less than $5 each for Economy Class and $22 for Executive Class. Transit time takes between 6-7 hours with multiple trains leaving daily. Tickets can be reserved online with Tiket Com as far as two months in advance.
Location Specifics
When to Visit. Visit during the peak of the dry season, in mid June. The weather was sunny and bright most days with the occasional afternoon storm.
Shoes Off Indoors. Like many places in Asia, it’s proper to remove shoes before entering home or some shops.
Islamic Customs. Indonesia is an Islamic country. The call to prayer is present in most places. Modesty and respect in all forms are the most important customs to follow.
LGBTQ+ Safety. Indonesian laws and customs are not very accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals. Stay up to date with the latest laws and suggestions while traveling. Refer to our guide on LGBTQ+ Travel Safety for more advice.
Elsewhere in Indonesia
From East Java's volcanic landscapes and waterfalls to the Komodo Islands' marine life, Bali's coastal culture and Ubud's sacred temples, continue exploring Indonesia through these travel guides:
Komodo Islands Travel Guide: Komodo Dragons, Island Adventures & Marine Life. Explore the Komodo Islands where Komodo dragons, volcanic landscapes, pink sand beaches and coral reefs blend wildlife encounters with island hopping adventures.
Bali Travel Guide: Canggu, Beaches & Island Adventures. Experience Bali where sacred temples, rice paddies, black sand beaches, surf breaks and vibrant beach clubs embody Balinese culture and island life.
Ubud Travel Guide: Rice Terraces, Sacred Temples & Balinese Culture. Wander through Ubud where expansive rice terraces, jungle trails, volcanic hikes, Hindu temples and the Sacred Monkey Forest preserve the cultural heart of Bali.
For Next Time…
There is so much to see in East Java and Indonesia! We are dreaming of returning for a third time to this scenic country and have a list of sights left to experience.
Mt. Bromo. We plan to spend a few days around Mt. Bromo and its active volcanos. Ideally, we would visit on a crystal clear day to see the landscape in full detail unobscured by fog.
Multi-Day Volcano Hike. With dozens of volcanos to choose from. We plan to hike and camp overnight on one of Java’s volcanos. Mt. Semeru, the largest volcano on the island has several routes and campsites to choose from.
West Bali National Park. From Banyuwangi, we would love to re-visit Bali and explore the island’s western peninsula and national park home to endemic birds, coral reefs and wild animals.
Prambanan Temple. A 9th century Hindu temple in Central Java. It’s the second largest after Angkor Wat. Its intcate structures and towers are carved from black lava rocks.
Komodo Islands Travel Guide: Komodo Dragons, Island Adventures & Marine Life
Explore the Komodo Islands where Komodo dragons, volcanic landscapes, pink sand beaches and coral reefs blend wildlife encounters with island hopping adventures.
The Komodo Islands
Komodo is an exotic Indonesian destination mystified by its dragons, picturesque landscapes, underwater marine life and pink sand beaches. The port city of Labuan Bajo is the hub for experiences in the region including live aboard charters to the islands of Komodo National Park.
Komodo Live Aboard
The best way to experience the Komodo Islands is on a Live Aboard. Boat operators across Labuan Bajo offer multi-night tours visiting the Komodo, its islands, beaches and reefs. We booked a 3 day 2 night tour on The Dinara with Amaze Vacations. It included all activities, a private cabin and all meals.
The Dinara. Our vessel for the three days touring the Komodo Islands. The beautiful wooden ship has comfortable private cabins and communal decks. We stayed in the Krakatau Room, one of the few rooms with windows on two sides and a private balcony! It was both adventurous and glamorous.
Pro Tip. Book your Live Aboard when you arrive! This gives you the best chance to coordinate around the weather. As planners, we booked months ahead of time but had hazy and rainy weather the dates of our tour.
Komodo National Park
Komodo National Park is home to the Komodo Dragons! The park consists of several protected islands with dramatic landscapes, picturesque beaches and thriving marine life.
Komodo Island. The largest island in Komodo National Park with the largest population of Komodo Dragons. We visited Komodo Village and were lead by local guides through the hillside. We didn’t have to walk too far before spotting three Komodo Dragons. One was shading under a tree, a giant one was resting along a dried up river and a third was sleeping in a nest made between tree roots.
Our Recommendation. Though we got to see Komodo Dragons, we don’t recommend booking a tour that visits the Komodo Village. It’s very touristy and the place is unfortunately littered with plastic and trash. Instead, go to the Komodo National Park Office and hike from there.
Padar Island Sunrise. A rugged island with hiking trails, crescent shaped coves and pink sand beaches. After spending a night on the ship, we woke up early to hike to the summit for sunrise. The trail leads along the island’s crest to different panoramic viewpoints. We sat near the top and watched the sunrise illuminate the island as it rose.
Padar Island Pink Beach. A sandy beach made up of finely eroded grains of red and white corals. The mixture gives the beach a pinkish hue. The turquoise colored water offers stunning contrast to pink sand. The color is most vibrant right after a wave washes on shore. There are several pink sand beaches around the Komodo Islands.
Pulau Karangan. A vibrant and shallow water coral reef teeming with marine life. It feels like being inside of an aquarium as thousands of colorful and tropical fish swim in all directions. Abstract looking corals cover the ocean floor as currents flow along a steep drop off. It was some of the best snorkeling we’ve ever done, however signs of stress and bleaching were evident in several parts of the reef.
Komodo Manta Ray Point. A snorkeling point where manta rays are frequently said to visit. We didn’t spot any but stuck around to snorkel and free dive in the deep blue waters. Down below, layers of large coral formations grow on top on each other as reef fish live within.
Manjarite Reef. A coral reef off shore from the Manjarite Beach with a sprawling coral garden and layers of large coral formations. We swam with all types of tropical fish and sea turtles!
Kelor Island. A small island with a hiking trail leading to its summit with views of the surrounding islands, anchored boats and blue waters below. We snorkeled near the beach, spotting black tipped reef sharks and puffer fish.
Taka Makasar. A sandbar island surrounded by swimmable turquoise waters. We snorkeled and spotted small black tipped reef sharks. Further offshore we saw a pod of dolphins swimming between the anchored wooden ships.
Bats of Pulau Kalong. Shortly after sunset, thousands of giant bats emerge from the forest on Kalong Island and take flight over the bay. Their dark silhouettes flutter overhead, contrasting the warm colors of the early evening sky. It was a serene and beautiful sight to watch from the top of our live aboard boat.
Labuan Bajo
Labuan Bajo is the main city on the island of Flores and entry point to Komodo National Park. The town surrounded by lush hills with hiking trails, beaches and lookout points. Its harbor is dotted with fishing boats and traditional wooden ships for live aboard tours. It’s worth spending a couple of days here either before or after booking a live aboard.
Soekarno Hatta Street. A narrow palm lined street passing through the center of Labuan Bajo with restaurants, cafes, dive shops, tour offices and massage spas.
Waterfront Promenade. The city’s waterfront promenade overlooks the harbor and its many anchored ships. It’s a beautiful walk for the sunset and to enjoy local festivities after dark.
Pavillon Off Shore. A waterfront boardwalk ending at an overwater pavilion with views of the harbor and dozens of anchored ships. It’s a calm spot for enjoying the tranquil views and scenery.
Wills Hills. A lookout point at the tip of Labuan Bajo with views of the islands and ocean. We spotted wild monkeys in the trees and a school of shark circling in the water below. Many people come here for the sunset.
Sylvia Beach. A crescent shaped tan sand beach overlooking the bay. The calm blue waters are perfect for swimming & sunbathing. The beach is located at the Sylvia Resort Komodo. The beach is free to enter for non-guests that purchase anything from the restaurant or bar.
Sylvia Hill. A hill above Sylvia Beach with views of the bay, island and sunset. It’s a popular local spot reachable after a 10 minutes hike from a roadside parking lot.
Puncak Waringin. An observation deck at one of the tallest points in town. It has sweeping views of the harbor, islands and golden sunset. Tickets costs 50K Rupiah. For a free view with similar perspectives, visit the Photo Spot Labuan Bajo. It’s only a minute walk down the street.
Cunca Walung Waterfall. A jungelous river canyon with a waterfall at its end. The canyon is reachable after walking 15 minutes down a forested nature trail and across a planked suspension bridge. At the canyon, we jumped from a rock cliff into the river and swam upstream to the base of the waterfall. Mist sprayed all around us and between the smoothed and curved canyon walls. Following the current back downstream we swam in the refreshing river and explored the eroded rock pools.
Good to Know. The entry fee costs 100K Rupiah per person and includes a guide.
Rangko Cave. A coastal cave with a flooded and swimmable chamber. During the mid-afternoon, from roughly 2-3:30pm, sunlight streams inside, illuminating its interior and aquamarine colored water. We swam around, viewing the stalactites and watching the birds fly from their nests. There is a small beach before the trail leading to the cave with a snack vendor and restrooms. The cave is only reachable by boat.
Getting Here. We hired our airport taxi driver for the day to bring us to the Cunca Walung Waterfall, Rangko Cave and Sylvia Hill Sunset Point. He charged 1.5 million Rupiah (about $90 USD at the time) for full transportation including the boat.
Labuan Bajo Fish Market. An nightly seafood market with dozens of street side kitchens barbecuing the day’s catch. Colorful arrangements of fresh fish like grouper, snapper, mahi mahi and parrot fish are displayed on icy tables. Live mantis shrimp, lobsters, crabs, oysters and clams sit in tubs of water and bottles. Smoke from the bbq grills wafts through the air as locals and travelers feast under awnings on the promenade. Shop around for the best looking seafood and prices to match. We ordered a grilled grouper, mantis shrimp and coconut from Kodak Para Ikatte.
Places to Eat & Drink
Naga Bar. An overwater bar at the end of a snaking boardwalk. The menu features tiki style drinks and signature cocktails inspired by the folklore and goddesses of Flores. It’s located at the AYANA Resort and open to non-guests.
Waroeng Labuan Bajo. A second floor restaurant overlooking the harbor of Labuan Bajo. They serve traditional Indonesian dishes including vegetarian and halal options. We came here for our first lunch, ordering with the national beer, Bintang.
Happy Banana. A very popular cafe and restaurant with a wide ranging menu including coffees, smoothie bowls, vegetarian dishes, sushi and poke.
Komodough. A tiny cafe with a very clever name. They sell strong coffees and a variety of pastries. Try the pandan croissant and pandan coconut roll for local flavors.
Copper Bonnet. A restaurant with a cocktail menu themed after Magellan’s voyage around the world. The menu features about two dozen signature cocktails, each with local and regional ingredients tied to a specific point in the voyage. Try the Burn The Ship and Coconut Palm.
Indonesian Cuisine
Nasi Goreng. Vegetable fried rice, an Indonesian staple commonly served on menus around the country. It’s a popular breakfast dish.
Mi Goreng. The same as nasi goreng, except made with noodles instead of rice.
Gado Gado. Lightly steamed or boiling vegetables served with a spicy peanut sauce.
Batagor. Fried banana, tempe or tofu stuffed with glass noodles and veggies. It’s a very common street food dish in East Java and eaten for breakfast or a mid day snack.
Tempeh. Fermented and spouted soybeans formed into a protein patty or block. A common preparation is Tempeh Lada Hitam, tempeh cooked in a black pepper sauce.
Sayur Lodeh. A spiced coconut stew cooked with tempeh, eggplant, tomatoes and green beans.
Bintang. Indonesia’s national beer. It’s a light beer perfect for the perpetually hot afternoons and evenings.
Sambal. Indonesians love spicy food. The source of the heat is often sambal, a minced mixture of Thai chili peppers, shallots and garlic.
Location Specifics
When to Visit. Visit during the peak of the dry season, in mid June. The weather was sunny and bright most days with the occasional afternoon storm.
Shoes Off Indoors. Like many places in Asia, it’s proper to remove shoes before entering home or some shops.
Plastic Pollution. Unfortunately plastic pollutes many of the harbors, beaches and lookout points around Komodo.
Islamic Customs. Indonesia is an Islamic country. The call to prayer is present in most places. Modesty and respect in all forms are the most important customs to follow.
LGBTQ+ Safety. Indonesian laws and customs are not very accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals. Stay up to date with the latest laws and suggestions while traveling. Refer to our guide on LGBTQ+ Travel Safety for more advice.
Getting Around
On Foot. The town of Labuan Bajo small and easily walkable.
By Taxi. Taxis and motos are plentiful around town. Most locals will offer a ride anywhere around town, to and from the airport or to the resorts outside of town for 100K Rupiah.
Elsewhere in Indonesia
From the Komodo Islands' wildlife encounters and coral reefs to East Java's volcanoes, Bali's beaches and Ubud's cultural traditions, discover more of Indonesia through these travel guides:
East Java Travel Guide: Mount Bromo, Ijen & Tumpak Sewu. Trek through East Java from Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, where volcanic landscapes and jungle trails reveal Indonesia's dramatic natural wonders.
Bali Travel Guide: Canggu, Beaches & Island Adventures. Experience Bali where sacred temples, rice paddies, black sand beaches, surf breaks and vibrant beach clubs embody Balinese culture and island life.
Ubud Travel Guide: Rice Terraces, Sacred Temples & Balinese Culture. Wander through Ubud where expansive rice terraces, jungle trails, volcanic hikes, Hindu temples and the Sacred Monkey Forest preserve the cultural heart of Bali.
For Next Time…
Seeing the pink sand beaches, stunning coral reefs and Komodo dragons themselves left us in a sense of awe and wanting to see more. Next time we return, we have a few ideas of what we would see and do.
Rinca. A lesser visited island regarded by those who have as being one of the best kept secrets of the Komodo Islands. It has Komodo Dragons, scenic landscapes, coral reefs and sunset views.
Spiderweb Rice Terraces. An indigenous method of growing rice on Flores with tiered rice terraces shaped like a spider web. The best time of year to visit is during the rainy season when they’re in full sprout.
Scuba Diving. We saw over a dozen dive shops with scuba tours in Labuan Bajo. Several of which offer introductory dives in the Komodo Islands for people without licenses.