Bali has so many breathtaking spots that it’s hard to choose just one as “the prettiest.” From dramatic cliffs to peaceful rice terraces, each area has its own personality. Over time, I’ve explored the island’s corners, and some places stand out not just for their beauty, but for the feeling they leave behind. Here’s my take on the most stunning natural spots, temples, notable destinations, and a few tips to help you see Bali at its best.
Natural Landscapes Worth the Journey
Ubud – The Lush Interior
Ubud is surrounded by rice terraces, valleys, and tropical forest. The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is the most famous, and for good reason, its layered fields are a striking sight in the morning light. I often walk the narrow paths between paddies, stopping at small cafes that overlook the greenery. The Campuhan Ridge Walk offers open views over the hills and is best enjoyed early in the day.
Nusa Penida – Rugged Coastlines
Nusa Penida feels more raw than mainland Bali. The cliffs at Kelingking Beach drop sharply into clear blue water, creating one of the island’s most photographed views. Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong add to the dramatic scenery. The roads can be challenging, but the reward is worth the effort.
Sidemen – Quiet Valley Views
Sidemen is all about space and calm. The landscape is dominated by rice paddies and framed by Mount Agung. Walking through the villages here offers a look at daily life in rural Bali, far removed from the busier tourist spots.
Munduk – Cool Hills and Waterfalls
Munduk’s higher elevation means cooler temperatures and misty mornings. The area is known for waterfalls such as Munduk Waterfall and Melanting Waterfall, both surrounded by dense forest. The trails here are peaceful and smell of clove and coffee trees.
Temples with Striking Settings
Uluwatu Temple – Clifftop Views
Set high on a limestone cliff above the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple offers wide views in every direction. The Kecak fire dance at sunset adds a cultural experience to the natural setting.
Tirta Empul – Sacred Springs
Tirta Empul is known for its holy water pools, where locals and visitors take part in purification rituals. The sound of flowing water and the temple’s gardens create a calm, reflective atmosphere.
Besakih Temple – The Mother Temple
Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, Besakih Temple is Bali’s largest and most important temple complex. Its multiple tiers and stone gates are set against a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Towns and Coastal Areas to Explore
Canggu – Modern Beach Scene
Canggu combines black sand beaches with a lively café culture. Surfers head to Echo Beach, while inland streets are lined with restaurants, shops, and street art. It’s a good base if you want both the beach and a social atmosphere.
Jimbaran – Seafood and Sunset
Jimbaran Bay is calm and sandy, making it a good spot for swimming. In the evenings, beachside restaurants set up tables on the sand for fresh seafood dinners at sunset.
Seminyak – Shopping and Dining
Seminyak offers boutique shopping, beach clubs, and a well-developed dining scene. The sunsets here are wide and unobstructed, best enjoyed from the beach itself or a rooftop bar.
Practical Tips for Visiting Bali’s Prettiest Places
- Avoid peak hours – Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Combine locations – Pair busy areas like Seminyak with quieter spots like Sidemen or Munduk.
- Dress appropriately – Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering temples.
- Consider a scooter – It’s the most flexible way to explore.
- Stay hydrated – The heat can be intense, especially when walking outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Bali’s most beautiful places each offer something different. From the quiet valleys of Sidemen to the ocean cliffs of Uluwatu, the prettiest part of the island depends on the experience you’re looking for. Exploring a mix of landscapes, cultural sites, and coastal towns is the best way to see Bali at its finest.
