Planning a holiday to Bali with kids and looking for things to do? Here's Chris Edwards personal favourites, with her list of 22 awesome things to do in Bali from waterparks and beaches to temples, zip lines, and turtle conservation.
Planning a trip to Bali with the kiddos in tow? Good call. I have been visiting Bali with my kids for years (I think we have done over 15 family trips!). Bali is not only a tropical paradise for grown-ups, but it’s also packed with fun things to do for little (and not-so-little) ones. So whether you’re travelling with toddlers, tweens or teens, here’s our round-up of the best family-friendly things to do in Bali with kids.
My top tips, before you go
1. Pick a location (e.g. Seminyak, Sanur, Jimbaran, Uluwatu or Nusa Lembongan), and try to do all the activities in that location, as traffic is a nightmare. There can be queues for hours. We generally stay for five days in one location and then move to stay five days in another location. Trust me, you don’t want to do many day trips!
2. Get an e-sim, to save on data and overseas calls.
3. Download the Grab and Gojek apps – they are lifesavers when it comes to booking taxis and getting anything you need delivered to your villa/hotel via motorbike (even your morning coffee).
4. Book a nanny if your kids are little. Our trusted family favourite is Tammy the Nanny.
5. Bring mosquito repellent and travel insurance always!
6. Avoid ‘Bali Belly’ by taking probiotics daily before and during your trip to help balance gut health, bring electrolytes, anti-diarrheal meds (like Imodium or charcoal), and rehydration salts just in case.
7. Safety first: If you are travelling with toddlers and staying at villas, book a pool fence for your villa.
When’s the best time to visit Bali with kids?
The dry season (April to October) is ideal for beach days, exploring nature, and cultural activities. The wet season (November to March) is still warm and lush—just pack raincoats and embrace the tropical vibes. Bali is a year-round destination, but for family adventures, July, August, and September are especially popular. And with the recent weather patterns, who knows whether it will be raining in wet season or dry!
Must-try Bali activities we love
1. Waterbom Bali (Kuta)
If you’re in Bali with kids, you need to try this. Hands-down my family’s favourite activity is a day at Waterbom Bali. We have done it with toddlers and then again later with teens, and it’s still an all-round-family-winner. Asia’s top-rated waterpark isn’t just hype—it’s a full day of fun. Think thrilling slides for the big kids and mellow water zones for the littlies.
Pro tip: Book a cabana! You need to rest up and get out of the heat. ALSO arrive 30 minutes before it opens – the first hour in an almost empty waterpark is totally worth it.
Where: Waterbom Bali, Jl. Kartika Plaza, Kuta, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361 Indonesia
When: Open daily from 9,00am – 6:00pm. Closed only on Nyepi Day (Balinese Day of Silence)
Tickets: Book online before you go. Prices start from IDR 445,500 (around S$35 per person)
2. Family beach day at Jimbaran
Jimbaran beach days are always great days. Calm, shallow waves plus beachside warungs? Perfect for sandcastle builders and seafood lovers alike. Bonus points for sunset dinners right on the sand. There is also a terrific surf school at Jimbaran – see the next activity below! There’s no need to book a restaurant. Just rock up with your crew and find a spot that looks comfy.
3. Surf lessons
A great activity for kids – my family loves to book surf lessons in Bali, because it’s fun for the kids, but also nice and quiet for me while I chill on the beach! Kuta and Jimbaran are the best beginner-friendly beaches that offer surf schools that cater to kids (and patient instructors, bless them).
Where: Jimbaran Surf
Booking: Book ahead via WhatsApp: +62 813 5353 9300
Prices: On request
4. Sail away on a sunset cruise
Ah, sunset cruising around Uluwatu on your private boat. I know it sounds expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. We love going out on a local fishing boat called The Black Pearl. Best bit: You can bring your own snacks and beers, and soak up that stunning sunset over the water. You can also rent jetskis for IDR 499,000 (about S$38) for 15 minutes.
Where: The Black Pearl, Jimbaran Bay
Booking: Book in English via WhatApp: +62 8979218431
5. Snorkelling in Padang Bai or Nusa Lembongan
The snorkelling in Bali is INCREDIBLE… You can find crystal-clear waters and colourful fish in Padang Bai or Nusa Lembongan. Snorkelling in Bali with kids is safe, easy, and super exciting for kids who love the ocean. For more info, check out our sister site Honeycombers Bali.
Pro tip: Book a local guide who supplies life jackets and kid-sized gear. Our fave snorkelling sites? Mangrove Point, The Wall and Crystal Bay (off the coast of neighbouring Nusa Penida) are all must-dos on a multi-stop snorkelling trip. Or if you’re really keen, simply hire a snorkel and mask and explore the calm waters right from the beach.
6. Stand up paddle boarding at Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan has become our favourite place to go to when we are in Bali with kids. Not only are there heaps of things to do, but this island has almost no cars. It’s so quiet, and feels like you are stepping back in time. We love travelling around the island on the back of the cute taxis and the stand up paddle boarding is just magic here too. Highly recommend!
Best Bali activities for nature buffs
7. Monkey Forest (Ubud)
Wander through ancient temples and lush jungle while watching cheeky macaques swing overhead. Just watch your sunnies and phone, and do not take out any food or open your bag while you’re here. These monkeys are quick!
Where: Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Padangtegal Ubud, 80571, Bali
When: Opening hours 9:00am – 6:00pm
Cost: Weekdays: Adult IDR 100.000 (S$7), Child IDR 80.000 (S$6). Weekends: Adult IDR 120.000(S$9), Child: IDR 100.000 (S$7)
8. Bali Safari & Marine Park (Gianyar)
Elephants, zebras, and lions! This family favourite has safari-style rides, animal shows, and even a water play zone! There’s also a Night Safari to see the nocturnal animals.
Pro tip: Check the schedule for animal feeding times!
Where: The Amazing Taman Safari Bali, Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra No.Km. 19, Serongga, Kec. Blahbatuh, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80511, Indonesia
When: Opening hours 9am – 5:30pm. Night Safari 6pm – 9pm.
Cost: From IDR 585,000 (about S$45)for a Jungle Hopper ticket. Check the ticket booking site for the latest promos and combo tickets.
9. Turtle Conservation and Education Centre (Serangan Island)
A heartwarming and educational pit stop. Learn about sea turtle rescue efforts and (if you’re lucky) help release baby turtles into the ocean! Great for school-aged kids interested in marine life.
Where: Turtle Conservation Centre, Jalan Tukad Punggawa Lingkungan Ponjok, Serangan 80229, Denpasar, Bali
10. Bali Bird Park (Gianyar)
Wander through walk-in aviaries, meet exotic birds, and enjoy interactive feeding times. A lovely half-day adventure for mini nature lovers. Be careful if you let those parrots on your head – their claws are sharp!
Where: Bali Bird Park, Jl. Serma Cok Ngurah Gambir, Singapadu, Batubulan, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia, 80582
When: Open daily from 9:30am – 5:30pm. Check the daily schedule for feeding times, shows and seasonal activities.
Prices: Tickets from IDR 385,000 (around S$30) per visitor.
11. Culture Meets Creativity
When you’re in Bali with kids, why not try a Balinese offering-making or batik painting class. Get hands-on with local culture! Many studios offer kid-friendly workshops where they can make colourful crafts and learn traditional techniques. Best bit: You can take their creations home as keepsakes! For locations and workshops near you, it’s best to check with your hotel on arrival for the lowdown.
12. See a clifftop temple and watch a Balinese dance performance
The music, the costumes, the storytelling! When you’re in Bali with kids, you need to experience a Balinese dance performance. Kiddos (and grown-ups) will be mesmerised. Try Uluwatu Temple for a dramatic clifftop Kecak show.
Where: Kecak Fire and Dance Show, Uluwatu Temple, Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
When: Daily at 5:45pm and 7:00pm.
13. Visit temples like Tanah Lot or Uluwatu
Bali’s famous sea temples are a must-see. They’re scenic, spiritual, and often come with a few monkeys hanging around for extra excitement. These are sacred places in Bali, so it is important to be respectful of these areas. Wear a sarong and scarf to cover to elbows and knees – no revealing clothing or loud noises! Also make sure you take off your sunglasses.
Where:
Uluwatu Temple, Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Tanah Lot, Jl. Tanah Lot, Beraban, Kec. Kediri, Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82121, Indonesia
Adventure & outdoor fun in Bali
14. Snap a pic on a Bali swing
You may have come across various videos on social media of beautiful people wearing flowing outfits and swinging out over the treetops. These pics are mostly of swings found in Bali! These swings are usually made of rope and have become tourist attractions in their own right. People queue for hours to snap photos for the gram. For the sky high swings, we recommend for teens and older. Littlies can stick to the beach swings at Nusa Lembongan!
15. White-water rafting and ATV rides (for older kids)
Ready to level up the adventure? These thrilling experiences are best for teens and tweens who want a bit of action. These full-day adventures will have the fam using every muscle in your body! While it can be a bit scary, the sense of achievement at completing these challenges has everyone on a high. Core memories, unlocked. Check with your villa or resort on the nearest or best providers for white-water rafting and ATV rides!
16. Bali Equestrian Centre (Canggu)
Giddy up! This beautiful centre offers pony rides, riding lessons, and even a cute on-site café and pool for non-riders. This was super popular with my kids when they were aged 6-12, not so much now they are teenagers. A great combo of outdoor activity and downtime.
Where: Bali Equestrian Centre, Perumahan Canggu Asri Badung, Indonesia 80365 Bali
When: Open daily 7:45am – 6:45pm. Pony rides Monday- Sunday, 9.00am – 11.00am and 3.00pm – 5:00pm
Price: Pony rides from IDR 250,000 (around S$20).
17. Padel
We’re obsessed with padel and pickleball! Somehow, it’s even more fun getting a game in when you’re on holiday in Bali with kids. Great for teens, my kiddos really enjoyed booking a court and smashing it out at Padel. It’s great exercise, and tired them out (plus, more quiet pool time for hubby and I!)
Where: Check out Honeycombers Bali for where to play padel in Bali
Chill time & easy wins in Bali
18. Pool day at Jungle Fish or Cretya (Ubud)
Jungle vibes + infinity pools = a dreamy day out for parents and kids alike. Both venues are family-friendly and totally Instagrammable. Check before you go, especially on weekends, in case there’s a plan to transform the space into a party zone or nightclub!
Where: Cretya Ubud, Jl Raya Tegallalang, Gianyar 80561
When: Open daily 7:00am – 9:00pm
Where: Jungle Fish, Chapung Sebali Jalan Raya Sebali, Banjar Sebali Desa Keliki, Tegallalang, Ubud Bali, 80561
Bookings: For reservations, WhatsApp +62 878 9111 8168
19. Ice cream at Gusto Gelato in Seminyak (and a spot of homewares shopping!)
You can’t go to Bali with kids and not indulge in a scoop of ice cream! Treat the whole gang to scoops of creamy goodness at Gusto Gelato in Seminyak. Think tropical fruit flavours, chocolate, and everything in between. While you’re there, you might even get time to pop into Kim Soo, a must-visit homewares shop in Seminyak. See more best Bali homewares delights in this full review.
Where: Gusto Gelato, Jl. Merdeka No.14, Sumerta Kelod, Kec. Denpasar Tim., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80239, Indonesia
Where: Kim Soo, Jl. Kayu Aya No.21, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
20. Shopping and snacks at Love Anchor Market (Canggu)
This buzzing bazaar-style market is a hit with kids as there’s trinkets, treats, and treasures around every corner. Running seven days a week, surely you can find time during your trip to visit for a spot of shopping. Saturday and Sunday are a vibe, with on-trend and fresh brands showcasing their wares at Love Anchor Bazaar. Here you’ll find both traditional and modern fashion, and an eclectic mix of vintage tropical.
Where: Love Anchor, Dalung, Kuta Utara, Canggu
When: Open daily until 9:00pm
21. Enjoy a Hair Rescue at Spring Spa (Uluwatu, Nusa Lembongan, Canggu & Seminyak)
It’s not just mums and daughters who enjoy this one, men can join in the fun too! Spring Spa’s Hair Rescue is a do-not-miss-experience. Named by Harper’s Bazaar as the ‘Most Relaxing Hair Ritual’ and a Best in Bali winner, these awards speak for themselves. This is a hair mask experience that includes a back, arm and foot massage, and finishes with a blow-out. Honestly so-ah-amazing!
Where: Spring Spa, various locations
Prices: Hair Rescue Experience from IDR 700,000 (around $S55)
22. Paint a pot (Jimbaran)
A great introduction to ceramics and perfect for kids aged 3-12, we have painted many pots, mugs and dishes at Jenggala. All materials are provided, and there are guides there to help you (or you can paint away on your own whimsy!) Best bit: These creations are perfect keepsakes from the trip, and we love looking back at all the pottery we’ve been collecting over the years!
Pro Tip: Do this activity at the start of your holiday, as your creation will be ready in 5-7 days.
Where: Paint a Pot Jenggala, Jalan Uluwatu II, Jimbaran
When: Open daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm (last session is at 4.00pm).
Prices: On request
Bookings: Book via WhatsApp at +62 811-3830-5624
Planning a trip to Bali with kids? We’ve got more family travel inspo for you on HoneyKids and also our dedicated sister site Honeycombers Bali!
