Bali is an island of breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and incredible food, offering so much to do in a single day. Whether you’re a beach lover, culture seeker, or foodie, Bali has something for everyone. Here’s a detailed day-in-the-life itinerary to make the most of your 24 hours in Bali.
6:00 AM – Sunrise at Sanur Beach
Start your day early with a peaceful sunrise at Sanur Beach. This area is known for its calm waters, making it perfect for a morning stroll or a serene moment to watch the sky light up with pinks and oranges. You can also rent a bike and cycle along the coastal path to take in the quiet beauty of the beach before it gets busy.
Pro tip: If you’re up for a little more adventure, you can book an early morning stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) session or a sunrise boat tour.
7:30 AM – Breakfast at a Local Warung
After your sunrise, head to a warung (a traditional local restaurant) for a delicious breakfast. A great place to start is Warung Sindu in Sanur, where you can enjoy traditional Balinese dishes like nasi campur—a rice dish served with a variety of vegetables, meats, and sambals. For something light, try pisang goreng (fried banana) or kue cubir (traditional Balinese cakes).
Must-try dish: Bubur injin, a Balinese black rice porridge, often served with coconut milk and palm sugar.
9:00 AM – Visit Uluwatu Temple
After breakfast, head to Uluwatu Temple, perched dramatically on a cliff with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. This ancient sea temple is one of Bali’s most iconic, and its beautiful setting makes it perfect for a morning visit. Spend time exploring the temple complex and wandering around the surrounding areas.
Pro tip: Be mindful of the monkeys here! They can be a little cheeky, especially when it comes to food or anything shiny.
11:00 AM – Explore the Rice Paddies in Ubud
Take a drive to the heart of Bali—Ubud—famous for its lush landscapes and traditional rice paddies. Head to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, where you can take a leisurely walk through the emerald green fields. It’s a great spot for photos, and you can even try your hand at rice planting if you’re up for a hands-on experience.
While in Ubud, make sure to also explore the local art shops and galleries to pick up some unique handcrafted souvenirs.
1:00 PM – Lunch at Ibu Oka (Ubud)
For a traditional Balinese lunch, head to Ibu Oka in Ubud, renowned for its babi guling (suckling pig). This is a beloved Balinese dish, often served with rice, vegetables, and spicy sambal. It’s a must-try dish that offers a taste of authentic Balinese flavors.
If you’re vegetarian, don’t worry—Ubud also has many options for plant-based meals, with cafes offering fresh, organic, and flavorful local cuisine.
2:30 PM – Visit Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
After lunch, take a short stroll to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud. This lush jungle is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques, and it offers a peaceful environment to explore ancient temple ruins and towering trees. Wander along the stone paths, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the place while observing the playful monkeys.
4:00 PM – Traditional Balinese Spa Experience
Bali is famous for its rejuvenating spa experiences, and you deserve a break after your day of exploring. Head to one of Ubud’s serene spas for a traditional Balinese massage or flower bath. Many spas use locally sourced ingredients like coconut oil and frangipani flowers, providing a relaxing and authentic experience.
5:30 PM – Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple
Drive towards the western coast for one of Bali’s most stunning sunset views at Tanah Lot Temple. This sea temple sits atop a rock formation, surrounded by the ocean at high tide. The view at sunset is magical, as the sky lights up with hues of orange, purple, and gold.
It’s an incredibly popular spot, so it can get crowded, but it’s well worth the visit. You can take your time exploring the temple and its surroundings while the sun dips below the horizon.
7:00 PM – Dinner at Jimbaran Bay Seafood
End your day with a delicious seafood dinner at Jimbaran Bay, known for its fresh, grilled seafood on the beach. As the sun sets, choose from a variety of restaurants that offer tables directly on the sand. You’ll be able to feast on grilled fish, prawns, and squid, all served with rice and local sambal.
Many of the seafood restaurants offer set menus with a variety of dishes, and you can enjoy your meal while listening to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore.
9:00 PM – Nightcap at a Beach Club
To finish your day in style, head to one of Bali’s famous beach clubs. Potato Head Beach Club or Finns Beach Club are both great choices, offering cocktails and a lively atmosphere, as well as some great views of the ocean at night. You can unwind, listen to music, and relax with a drink as the night unfolds.
10:30 PM – Sleep Under the Bali Stars
After your day of exploring, it’s time to rest up for more adventures. Many hotels and resorts in Bali offer beautiful accommodations with views of the ocean or rice fields. Whether you stay in a luxurious resort, a cozy boutique hotel, or a traditional bali-style villa, you’ll find plenty of options that embrace the island’s beauty.
Bali offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, relaxation, and food—all packed into 24 hours. From stunning temples to serene beaches, vibrant rice paddies, and mouth-watering dishes, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories. Try to pace yourself, but don’t forget to take in the beauty and serenity that Bali offers at every corner.
Have you planned out your Bali trip yet, or are you still dreaming about it?