There are so many reasons why Bali is one of the most popular destinations for solo travellers (I’ve actually been here twice!) It offers a mix of tropical beaches, ancient temples, lush rice terraces, and cool beach clubs.
Bali is actually a big island and getting yourself around the island often involves checking maps, booking transportation such as GrabBike, or looking up places on the go, so having mobile internet access is essential. I recommend setting up an eSIM, such as eSIM Plus, before you leave as it saves you from searching for a local SIM card as soon as you arrive.
Then, with data and maps at your fingertips, you can focus on exploring Bali at your own pace without having to worry. If you’re unsure what to do in Bali, here are my recommendations.
Things to Do in Bali for Solo Female Travellers
Bali is a magical island where you can embrace your inner child, because the atmosphere is relaxed and carefree and there are so many wellness activities to embrace yourself in here.
It’s an island of friendly, positive people, colourful temples, incredible nature, colourful sunsets and sunrises, majestic volcanoes, delicious food and a unique spiritual tradition (not to mention mischievous monkeys). One even tried to steal my food!
Bali is also an island of captivating scents. You can’t help but notice the aromas of incense burning in temples, spices, flowers and the scent of fresh coconut. Finally, Bali is the skilled hands of massage therapists, whose reputation has spread around the world.
Here are some of my favourite experiences to enjoy during a solo trip to Bali.
#1 Watch the Sunrise from Mount Batur
A new day in Bali often begins with the gentle, melodic songs of birds and a spectacular sunrise. For the adventurous Girl about the Globe you can awaken at the crack of dawn and climb the island’s volcano to watch the sunrise on Mount Batur and admire the tropical sunrise from there above the fluffy clouds. (There are lots of tours that offer volcano treks)
If you want to keep your feet firmly on the ground, you can also connect with the rhythm of nature and have an equally amazing experience on Kusamba Beach (just below the clouds). The sound of the waves and the peaceful atmosphere will leave you feeling refreshed and energised and give you energy for the rest of the day.
#2 Explore Ubud and the Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Ubud is a destination that definitely shouldn’t be missed. Here you can connect with nature, get creative, and simply slow down.
You can stay in a jungle resort, practice yoga, or just go to one of the many cafes and treat yourself to a Balinese smoothie bowl, carrot cake or pancakes. Bali’s coffee is excellent, or you can try one of their selection of teas instead. Treat yourself with a floating breakfast in one of the hotel pools for a really unique start to the morning.
Rice terraces are one of Bali’s landmarks. They are scattered all over the island, but some of the most stunning photos can be taken overlooking Tegalalang. If you’ve seen the iconic image of the high swing in Bali, this is where it’s at. This swing gives amazing views of the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. And make sure to hike along the Campuhan Ridge Walk with its beautiful rice fields.
When you’re here to have to visit the monkeys in the mysterious, shaded forest of Ubud. Just be extremely careful not to lose your glasses, watch, or jewellery as the monkeys are quick to snatch your belongings.
#3 Discover Bali’s Most Beautiful Temples
There are thousands of temples in Bali, no one knows exactly how many there are, but there are believed to be at least 20,000, especially since many Balinese families have their own family temple.
The middle of the day is a great time to explore the island’s temples and one of the most majestic temples is Pura Besakih, which offers spectacular views of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest volcano. It is known as the “Mother Temple” of Bali.
Tanah Lot Temple is also definitely worth a visit. Note that it does sit on a rocky outcrop surrounded by the ocean, and during high tide some parts of the temple become inaccessible.
Walk along the beach near the temple too. The views from here make for great photos. People often come here to watch the Balinese sunset.
One thing you’ll notice when visiting Bali’s temples is the beautiful split gates at the entrances. These traditional gates are said to represent a mountain split in two, symbolising the balance between opposing forces. They’re also believed to offer spiritual protection. You’ll see them not just at temples, but at the entrances to beaches, rice fields and other places around the island too.
#4 Enjoy a Sunset and Traditional Kecak Dance
There are plenty of ways to enjoy a memorable evening in Bali: you can visit a spa for a massage and a flower bath, relax at one of the island’s beach clubs, have a picnic on the beach while watching the sunset and combine it with a traditional Kecak performance at Uluwatu Temple.
Kecak is a traditional Balinese dance and performance, that has been preserved on the island, which some researchers believe has roots dating back to ancient times. It’s really fascinating watching the delicate hand and finger movements of the dance and the way they tilt their head.
It’s worth arriving at Uluwatu Temple before sunset, taking a walk along the cliffs overlooking the ocean, before attending a spectacular performance.
#5 Join a Spiritual Retreat in Bali
Bali has long been known for its ideal atmosphere for spiritual practices (way before the book Eat, Pray, Love came out).
You’ll find spirituality on practically every corner of the island with women come here for all styles of meditation, yoga classes and breath work, and to be nourished by the gentle sounds of the ocean or the lush nature and greenery.
You can immerse yourself in the sounds of gongs, singing bowls, flutes and drumming sessions, and there are so many retreats and practitioners here that you can help better understand how sound can affect your body and mind. If a retreat feels too long, you can just join a single session to rejuvenate yourself on your holiday.
Ready to go to Bali?
These are just 5 of the things to do here. There are so many more layers to the island especially if you’re into surfing or biking. Whether you come for the temples, spas or beaches, you will definitely leave Bali feeling rested and calm, with a deeper appreciation for this magical island and its unique culture.
The post The Best Things to Do in Bali on a Solo Trip for Women appeared first on Girl about the Globe.
