Bali Travel Guide for First Timers

This Bali travel guide for first timers covers everything you need to know:  when to go, how to get around, what to pack, and how to stay connected from day one. This island has something for everyone: surf breaks, jungle hikes, healing retreats, beach clubs, and some of the best food you’ll ever try.

But it’s not just paradise. There are real logistics, cultural norms, and unexpected moments that can trip you up if you’re not ready. This guide is here to help you do it right with practical tips and advice for your first visit to Bali.

An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. No physical chip, no swapping tiny trays. You just download a data plan straight to your phone and connect within minutes.

Most modern smartphones support eSIMs (including iPhones XS and newer, plus many Samsung and Google Pixel models).You can check your device compatibility with our guide here. It’s fast, seamless, and honestly kind of a game changer, especially in places like Bali where you’ll want instant access to maps, messages, bookings, and ride apps.

• Skip the airport SIM queues
  
  
• Avoid roaming charges from your home network
  
  
• Activate it before you even land
  
  
• Stay connected across the island, whether you're in Ubud, Uluwatu, or a rice field in Sidemen
  
  
• Use it for hotspots, booking confirmations, WhatsApp, and Grab -  it just makes everything easier

If it’s your first time in Bali, you’re in for something special. This Indonesian island blends jaw-dropping natural beauty with deep cultural roots, spiritual energy, and everything from barefoot luxury to budget backpacking. Whether you’re visiting for a week or a month, Bali has a way of pulling people in  and making them want to stay.

Sim Local offers a few different eSIM options for Bali and Indonesia, depending on your travel style. Here are some quick picks to help you choose the right one:

Perfect if you’re in Bali for a while and just need data for Google Maps, WhatsApp, and the occasional scroll.

3 GB eSIM

Indonesia

Smartroam

Duration

30 Days

Plan

Data

Speed

4G / 5G

Price

$9.50

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20 GB eSIM

Asia

34 countries

Orange FR

Duration

31 Days

Plan

Data/​Calls/​SMS

Speed

4G

Price

$32.00

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Global Reach, Local Care

If you’re hopping between Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore & beyond this plan keeps you connected across borders without switching SIMs.

Great for digital nomads or anyone using hotspots, video calls, or uploading content while on the road.

20 GB eSIM

Indonesia

Smartroam

Duration

30 Days

Plan

Data

Speed

4G / 5G

Price

$34.00

Buy Now

Stay Connected, Anywhere.

You can activate any of these plans before you fly, so you’re connected the second you land.

👉 Browse all Indonesia eSIM plans here

Bali is welcoming, easy to explore, and full of variety. You don’t need to be a backpacker or luxury traveller to enjoy it. Whether you’re staying a week or a month, there’s something for every kind of visitor.

Here’s how most people spend their first time in Bali:

• Relaxers
  Spend your mornings in a yoga class, your afternoons by the pool, and your evenings at a beachside restaurant. Ubud and Uluwatu are perfect if you want peace and calm.
  
  
• Food lovers
  From traditional warungs to vegan cafés, Bali has some of the best food in Southeast Asia. You can eat well on any budget, and there’s something for every taste.
  
  
• Adventurers
  If you love being outdoors, you’ll find volcano hikes, waterfalls, scuba diving, and jungle motorbike routes. Even getting lost can feel like part of the fun.
  
  
• Solo travellers and digital nomads
  Bali is safe, social, and set up for remote work. You’ll find coworking spaces, strong WiFi in most cafés, and plenty of people to connect with in places like Canggu and Ubud.
  
  
• Couples and honeymooners
  Private villas, infinity pools, sunset dinners, and flower baths make Bali a go-to for romantic getaways that don’t feel forced or overpriced.
  
  

• Only drink bottled water, even for brushing your teeth
  
  
• Carry small cash, especially for markets and small cafés
  
  
• Use Grab or Gojek for safe, fixed-price transport
  
  
• Pack light clothes, a sarong, reef-safe sunscreen, and mosquito spray
  
  
• Dress respectfully at temples and don’t step on the daily offerings
  
  
• Plan for traffic, especially around Seminyak and Canggu
  

One of the biggest questions people ask when planning their first trip to Bali is “When should I go?” And honestly, it makes a huge difference. The island’s weather, prices, crowds, and energy change a lot depending on the season.

This section of our Bali Travel Guide for First Timers breaks down the best time to visit, what to expect during each season, and how to plan around local festivals and weather shifts.

If it’s your first time in Bali, dry season is the most popular choice:

• Clear skies and sunny days
  
  
• Perfect for beaches, hikes, and island hopping
  
  
• Easier travel between regions like Ubud, Uluwatu, and Nusa Penida
  

☀️ High season alert: July and August are the busiest (and priciest) months. Expect more crowds, higher accommodation prices, and busy roads, especially in Canggu and Seminyak.

Don’t rule it out just because of the rain. Bali during the wet season is green, moody, and quieter

• Fewer crowds and more budget accommodation options
  
  
• Daily downpours, mostly in the afternoon or evening
  
  
• ☔ It’s still warm and beautiful, but your beach plans might need some flexibility.

• Nyepi (March)
  Bali’s Day of Silence. The whole island shuts down. There’s  no travel, no electricity, no noise. It’s a powerful cultural experience, but you’ll need to plan around it.
  
  
• Galungan & Kuningan
  Major Balinese Hindu celebrations with colourful offerings, ceremonies, and processions. These happen several times a year and are an amazing window into local life.
  
  
• Temple festivals
  Each region has its own, and they’re often open to respectful visitors. Check with locals or your accommodation to find out what’s happening nearby.
  
  

First-timer budget tip:

Travel in May or October to hit the sweet spot: dry weather, smaller crowds, and better deals on flights and accommodation.

If it’s your first time in Bali, choosing the right area to stay in can completely shape your experience. Each part of the island has its own personality, pace, and price range. Whether you’re after surf, sunsets, silence, or smoothie bowls, this breakdown will help you find your perfect base.

Ubud is Bali’s spiritual and cultural centre. Surrounded by rice terraces and temples, it’s a peaceful inland town known for yoga, art, and traditional healing.

• Ideal for: solo travellers, couples, wellness seekers
  
  
• Vibe: calm, creative, spiritual
  
  
• Highlights: Monkey Forest, rice terrace walks, Balinese cooking classes
  
  
• Travel time from airport: around 90 minutes depending on traffic
  

💡 You’ll need a driver or scooter to explore the villages around Ubud, but the town itself is walkable.

Canggu is a trendy coastal area that’s become a hotspot for remote workers, creatives, and first-timers who want a social vibe. It’s full of beach bars, boutique shops, coworking spaces, and motorbikes zipping through the rice fields.

• Ideal for: digital nomads, solo travellers, friend groups
  
  
• Vibe: laid-back but lively
  
  
• Highlights: Echo Beach, coworking hubs, trendy restaurants and gyms
  
  
• Travel time from airport: about 45 minutes to an hour
  
  

💡 Expect traffic. Canggu’s roads are narrow and busy, especially during peak hours.

Seminyak is a well-developed area with plenty of modern comforts. It offers stylish accommodation, great restaurants, boutique shopping, and vibrant nightlife, all near the beach.

• Ideal for: couples, first-timers who want something easy
  
  
• Vibe: modern, convenient, good mix of chill and buzz
  
  
• Highlights: Potato Head Beach Club, Seminyak Village, luxury spas
  
  
• Travel time from airport: around 30 to 40 minutes
  
  

💡 Great for a soft landing. Everything is easy to access, and the beach is never far.

Located on the Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is famous for its cliffside views, white sand beaches, and mellow vibe. It’s more spread out, so expect to ride or hire a driver.

• Ideal for: couples, surfers, beach lovers
  
  
• Vibe: quiet, scenic, upscale without being too polished
  
  
• Highlights: Uluwatu Temple, Padang Padang Beach, surf spots, beach bars
  
  
• Travel time from airport: about 45 minutes
  
  

💡 Bring sandals and sunscreen. Most attractions involve steps, sand, and sun.

Sidemen is a lush, lesser-known inland area with beautiful jungle views and a slow pace. Lovina, in the north, is a beach town known for dolphin tours and black sand beaches.

• Ideal for: nature lovers, return visitors, people avoiding crowds
  
  
• Vibe: rural, traditional, off the tourist trail
  
  
• Highlights: rice terrace walks, Mount Agung views, local markets
  
  
• Travel time from airport: between 2.5 to 3.5 hours
  
  

💡 These areas are better for relaxing than exploring the whole island, so plan accordingly.

If you’re booking hotels or Airbnbs in advance, having reliable data the moment you land makes everything easier. From confirming bookings to messaging your host or finding your villa in the dark, you’ll want your phone working right away.

Figuring out how to get around is one of the most important parts of planning your trip. If it’s your first time in Bali, the transport options can feel a bit overwhelming at first. This section of the Bali travel guide for first timers breaks down the safest, easiest ways to move around the island without losing your mind.

Renting a scooter is one of the most popular ways to explore Bali. It’s cheap, convenient, and gives you total freedom to go where you want. But it’s not the best option for everyone, especially if you’re not confident on two wheels.

• You’ll need an international driver’s permit
  
  
• Always wear a helmet and closed-toe shoes
  
  
• Traffic in areas like Canggu and Seminyak can be intense
  
  
• Make sure your travel insurance covers motorbike use
  
  

Tip for first-timers: If you’ve never driven a scooter before, consider other options. The roads can be chaotic, and there are safer ways to explore the island.

Hiring a driver is one of the most stress-free ways to get around, especially for full-day trips or if you're travelling with others. It’s a great option if you want to explore multiple areas in one day without dealing with traffic or directions.

• You can book through your hotel, villa, or a travel app
  
  
• Many drivers speak English and are happy to offer local tips
  
  
• Costs range from 500,000 to 700,000 IDR (about €30 to €45) for a full day
  
  

Grab and Gojek are ride-hailing apps similar to Uber. They’re reliable, affordable, and perfect for getting around without having to negotiate with taxi drivers.

• Use them to book cars, scooters, food delivery, and even massages
  
  
• Prices are fixed and usually cheaper than taxis
  
  
• Especially useful in places like Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak, and Denpasar
  
  

For first-time visitors, these apps are a lifesaver. Just download them before you arrive and have a payment method ready to go.

If it’s your first time in Bali, understanding a few key cultural customs can really improve your trip. Balinese culture is deeply respectful, spiritual, and community-focused. While no one expects you to know everything, showing a little awareness goes a long way.

This section of the Bali travel guide for first timers covers basic etiquette, common scams, and what to expect when it comes to cash and tipping.

• Cover up at temples
  Always wear a sarong and cover your shoulders. Most temples provide rentals if you forget, but it’s good to bring your own.
  
  
• Watch your step
  You’ll see small woven offerings on the ground each morning. Avoid stepping on them, even by accident, as they are sacred to locals.
  
  
• Use your right hand
  Whether handing money, giving a gift, or receiving something, use your right hand as a sign of respect.
  
  
• Don’t touch people’s heads
  The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Balinese culture, especially for children.
  
  
• Keep your cool
  Shouting or showing anger in public is seen as disrespectful. If something goes wrong, stay calm and handle it with patience.
  
  

Most locals are kind and genuine, but like in any tourist destination, a few scams exist. First-time visitors are often easy targets, so here’s what to watch for:

• Scooter rental “fines”
  Some rental shops try to charge for pre-existing scratches or late returns. Take photos of the bike before riding and confirm terms up front.
  
  
• Street vendors selling fake tours or bracelets
  Be cautious if someone tries to put something on your wrist “for free” and then asks for payment.
  
  
• Taxi drivers in Bali overcharging Avoid negotiating fares with unlicensed taxis. Instead, use trusted apps like Grab or Gojek for set prices and smoother trips.
  
  
  

You’ll want to keep it light, but don’t forget these essentials.

• Loose, breathable clothes
  
  
• A long-sleeve layer for cool nights or temples
  
  
• Mosquito spray
  
  
• Reef-safe sunscreen
  
  
• Europlug adapter (Type C)
  
  
• A sarong — useful for temples or as a beach wrap
  
  

If it’s your first time in Bali, having the right apps on your phone will make your trip way smoother. From transport and translations to currency conversions and communication, these are the apps that actually made a difference on my trip.

Download them before you go, make sure your phone is set up with data, and you’ll be good to go.

These are Bali’s versions of Uber. Use them to book cars, scooters, food delivery, and even massages.

• Reliable, affordable, and way better than haggling with taxi drivers
  
  
• Ideal for first-timers trying to avoid tourist markups
  
  
• Available in most areas including Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak, and Denpasar
  
  

Essential for getting around. Use it for directions, restaurant reviews, and figuring out where the beach actually is.

• Pro tip: Download offline maps before you arrive, just in case
  
  

Super helpful when shopping in local markets, reading signs, or ordering food off a handwritten menu.

• You can use the camera feature to translate signs and packaging in real time
  
  
• Download the Bahasa Indonesia language pack to use it offline
  
  

The go-to app for communication in Bali. Most locals, hosts, drivers, and tour providers will message you here.

• Set it up before you go and keep notifications on
  
  
• Many Airbnbs and hotels will send booking info or directions via WhatsApp
  
  

Good to have if you’re using public WiFi at cafés or co-working spaces. Helps keep your data secure.

• There are lots of free and paid options — just make sure to activate it before connecting to an open network
  
  

Bali uses Indonesian Rupiah, and the numbers can look overwhelming at first. A currency app will help you figure out what you’re actually spending.

• XE or Currency Converter Plus are great options
  
  
• Helps avoid overpaying or getting confused at ATMs

To wrap up this Bali travel guide for first timers, here are a few key insider tips. These small insights can save you time, money, and a few headaches once you land.

• Set up your eSIM before flying
  This saves you from airport queues, dodgy kiosks, and expensive roaming charges.
  
  
• Don’t try to do it all
  Bali looks small on the map, but travel between regions takes time. Pick two or three areas and enjoy the slower pace.
  
  
• Always carry cash
  Many shops and cafés don’t accept cards, especially outside the main tourist hubs.
  
  
• Stay flexible
  Power cuts, rainstorms, and traffic are part of island life. Keep your plans loose and your mindset easygoing.
  
  
• Watch your water
  Only drink bottled water, and use it to brush your teeth too.
  
  
• Check WiFi if you’re working remotely
  Some villas look dreamy on Airbnb but don’t have the connection to match.
  
  
• Go beyond the Insta-famous spots
  Hidden temples, quiet beaches, and local warungs often deliver the most memorable experiences.
  
  

Stay connected and stress-free

If it’s your first time in Bali, having mobile data the second you land can make everything easier from messaging your accommodation to ordering a Grab or checking Google Maps in the middle of the jungle.