11 Ways You Can Embrace the Spirit of Bali

Find out where to experience depth, discovery, and dreamlike beauty on this beloved Indonesian island

The magnetic energy of Bali meets you the moment you step out of the airport and into the tropical island air. For many, it feels grounding and deeply spiritual, a sense of calm untouched by the outside world. For others, it’s vibrant and creative, shaped by the region’s thriving sense of culture and community. But, to everyone, it feels undeniably warm and welcoming, as if the entire isle is wrapping you in its magical charm from the very beginning.

Though small, the island offers vastly diverse landscapes waiting to be explored – and one-of-a-kind experiences to pair with them. From white sand beaches and volcanic highlands to lush rainforests, deep river ravines, emerald rice terraces, and serene countryside, immerse yourself in the island’s scenic wonders while embracing the spirit of Bali during these enthralling adventures.

Anyone who has ever wanted to see an elephant up close will thrive at Mason Elephant Park & Lodge, a spot tucked away in the highland forest north of Ubud. This park is home to a herd of Sumatran elephants that were rescued from containment camps, located in a part of Bali that most closely mirrors their tropical home. During your visit, watch the magnificent creatures swim in a tranquil lake, give them a bath, or feed them an array of fresh vegetables while seeing their quirky personalities come out. There is also a gift shop with elephant-themed items and other local artisan goods.

Temples are everywhere in Bali, but not all temples are created equal. Those seeking a spiritual experience that will linger in your heart and mind long after your visit should head to Tirta Empul, a Hindu water temple that serves as a community hub for those in the neighboring village. Tirta Empul dates back more than a thousand years, with the sacred water bubbling up from a natural spring on the temple grounds. Experience the temple through the Melukat ceremony, a cleansing ritual that takes visitors into the water to promote inner peace and rid them of negative energy. Hire a local guide to lead you through the ritual, which involves prayer and purification with specific steps that hold great significance to the Balinese people.

No matter where you venture on the island, tranquil retreats await. The capital city of Denpasar is home to The Meru Sanur, an all-suite beachfront resort that offers multiple swimming pools, a spa, a boutique shop, beauty salon, and a wide range of activities for kids and adults. Ametis Villa Bali, a more intimate escape with 14 private villas near the trendy village of Canggu, features a personal butler that will quickly make you feel right at home with personalized experiences. Those looking to immerse in nature can stay at Samsara Ubud, where private villas nestled in the jungle accompany a holistic spa, floating breakfasts, moonlight film screenings, daily yoga, art classes, and a Balinese restaurant that sits above the treetops.

The Bali Swing has become one of the most popular photo ops in Bali, but spend an afternoon at stunning adventure park Alas Harum instead to truly immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of this area. Vibrant, flowing dresses are available to borrow as you swing over the jungle with the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terrace as your backdrop. The property is also littered with zip lines, a sky bike, swaying suspension bridge, gorilla caves, and bird’s nest photo spots. After you’ve spent time exploring, slip over to the complex’s tropical day club, Cretya Ubud, which boasts gourmet food, refreshing cocktails, luxe day beds, and an adults-only tiered pool overlooking the lush green rice terraces.

The true discovery of Bali as a global surf spot came in the 1970s, when Americans and Australians started surfing in Uluwatu. Found on the southern tip of the island, Uluwatu is a laid-back village with beautiful beaches and coastal cliffs. But it’s the surf culture and premier peaks that have earned this spot worldwide fame. World-class waves await in five areas: Outside Corner, The Peak, Racetrack, Temples, and Secrets. Meanwhile, spots like Dreamland, Baby Padang, and Padang Padang Right beckon beginners. Visit during the dry season, between April and October, for the most consistent swells.

Waking up at 2 a.m. to trek to the top of an active volcano may not be on everyone’s list. But for those who value fitness and the great outdoors, few experiences in Bali are more captivating. Climbing to the top of Mount Batur typically takes about two hours, and guides are required to ensure hikers safely make their way along the trail. Moderately difficult with steep inclines and loose sand and gravel underfoot, this pre-dawn ascent in the dark is worth it when you reach the summit just as the sky begins changing color and the sun peaks above the horizon. You might also spot wild monkeys or enjoy a volcanic steam-cooked breakfast courtesy of your guide.

Colorful bohemian bean bags and traditional Balinese umbrellas bring a liveliness to sunset at La Plancha. Located right on the sand in Seminyak, this Spanish-inspired tapas spot is one you won’t soon forget. The playful, carefree energy allows you to breathe a sigh of relief and relax while the sky turns the same shade as your cocktail. Shareable dips, fresh bowls, brick-oven pizzas, grilled skewers, and ice creams perfectly complement the vast selection of beverages while intermittent events like full moon parties and beach markets are also held here.

For wildlife encounters of a different kind, visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Right in the heart of town, the forest somehow feels tucked away from the bustle of Ubud, providing more than 1,200 long-tailed macaques with space to roam amid the sanctuary’s towering banyan trees, ancient temple ruins, and lush pathways. These animals – deemed sacred by the Balinese people – can be seen scrambling up trees, jumping from branch to branch, and even wandering the stone walkways with visitors. While they may get mischievous, it’s all a part of the fun.

The snorkeling in Bali is unparalleled. Take a day trip to Nusa Penida, a nearby island surrounded by vibrant coral gardens teeming with life. In addition to a variety of reef fish, the clear water lends brilliant visibility for seeking out sea turtles, mola mola (sunfish), blue‑spotted stingrays, nudibranchs, and even underwater stone statues. But the true highlight is the squadron of manta rays that call this part of the ocean home. These gentle giants can have wingspans up to almost 30 feet that allow them to glide through the water with ease. On calm mornings, large groups are known to gather, and it’s a peaceful, almost meditative experience to float above them as they move to the rhythm of the ocean.

On an island where spirituality is interlaced in not just sacred temples but in daily routines, the island’s unique sense of serenity stays with you wherever you go. And, as wellness travel gains more and more attention, there’s no doubt that these two things go hand in hand. While traveling through Bali, you’ll find ample places to slow down and reconnect with yourself and nature. Practice yoga in a temple at Snana Yoga, balance your chakras or try energy healing at Spiritual Soul Healing Ubud, squeeze in a workout at Surya Gym, or indulge in a Balinese massage at the Flying Bamboo Spa, where the elevated, open-air treatment room embraces the sounds of the jungle or tranquil rainfall during your session. 

In Bali, community is an essential part of everyday life – in Balinese Hinduism and beyond. Travelers looking to cultivate a social circle of their own can turn to Nirvana Life, a venue that offers room to thrive with aerial yoga, sound baths, fitness classes, and recovery options including a cold plunge, sauna, steam room, signature massages, and more. The natural flavors of Bali permeate the café menu, where you won’t find any refined sugar, while co-working spaces encourage productivity and connection. It’s a place where the spirit of Bali comes to life with relationships that feel as restorative as the island itself.