Bali is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. If you’re planning a visit and wondering where to find alcohol, what local spirits to try, or the rules around drinking in public, this guide has got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a casual drink by the beach or a night out at a trendy bar, here’s everything you need to know about drinking in Bali.
Legal Drinking Age in Bali
The legal drinking age in Bali, as well as the rest of Indonesia, is set at 21 years old. This regulation applies to all types of alcoholic beverages, including local options like arak and beer. While this law is in place, the enforcement can be lenient, especially with tourists, but technically, individuals must be at least 21 to legally consume alcohol on the island.
Where to Find Alcohol in Bali
Finding alcohol in Bali is relatively easy, but knowing the best spots can make your experience smoother. Here are some common places to buy alcohol:
Supermarkets & Convenience Stores
Larger supermarkets like Carrefour, Pepito, and Bintang Supermarket stock a wide range of local and imported alcohol. Mini-marts like Circle K and Indomaret also carry basic beer selections.
Duty-Free Shops
If you want to bring your own alcohol, Ngurah Rai International Airport has duty-free stores offering imported spirits at competitive prices.
Liquor Stores
Specialty stores such as Red & White and The Cellardoor offer a broader selection of wines, spirits, and craft beers.
Bars & Restaurants
Many bars, beach clubs, and restaurants serve a variety of alcoholic beverages, from classic cocktails to locally brewed spirits.
Local Warungs
Some small local warungs (traditional shops) also sell alcohol, including local spirits like arak and beer. Prices may vary, so always check before purchasing.
Read also: Pre-Drink Spots in Bali: 4 Places to Kickstart Your Night Out
Local Balinese Alcohol: Arak, Tuak, and Brem
Bali has it’s own traditional alcoholic beverages that are worth trying for those who enjoy unique flavors:
Arak
Known as Bali’s signature spirit, arak is a strong liquor distilled from rice or palm sap. It has a high alcohol content and is often enjoyed neat or mixed into cocktails. Locals have been producing arak for centuries, and while you’ll find commercially available brands, homemade arak is still common (though caution is advised), as some unregulated batches can be unsafe. Many Balinese bars serve arak-based cocktails, blending it with honey, lime, or fruit juices to create smooth and flavorful drinks.
Tuak
If you prefer something milder, tuak is a naturally fermented palm wine with a lower alcohol content than arak. It’s commonly consumed in village gatherings and traditional ceremonies, offering a sweet and slightly sour taste. Some locals even compare it to kombucha due to its natural fermentation process. You can find tuak being sold in rural areas or at local warungs, where it’s often served in bamboo cups for an authentic touch.
Brem
This sweet Balinese rice wine is a unique treat that comes in both red and white varieties. Made from fermented sticky rice, brem has a smooth texture and a slightly fruity taste. It’s traditionally used in religious offerings, but it’s also enjoyed as a casual drink. If you have a sweet tooth, you might love brem as a dessert wine or as a base for creative cocktails served in upscale Balinese bars.
Can You Drink Alcohol in Public in Bali?
Drinking alcohol in public is a bit of a gray area in Bali. While it’s generally accepted in tourist-friendly areas like beaches, beach clubs, and nightlife districts, there are still some important things to keep in mind:
Drinking on beaches
Many visitors enjoy sipping a cold Bintang beer while watching the sunset, and this is usually tolerated. However, some beaches, especially those near religious sites, may have restrictions.
Street drinking is uncommon
Unlike some Western countries, walking around with an open bottle of alcohol isn’t a common sight in Bali. While it’s not outright illegal, it’s not culturally appropriate in many areas.
Respect local customs
Balinese culture places a strong emphasis on respect, and public drunkenness is generally frowned upon. Avoid excessive drinking in public spaces to maintain a good impression.
No alcohol near temples and sacred sites
Temples and other religious areas are strictly off-limits for drinking. Consuming alcohol in these places is seen as highly disrespectful.
Law enforcement discretion
While Bali is quite lenient compared to other parts of Indonesia, laws can still be enforced at the discretion of authorities. If you’re causing a disturbance, you could face fines or even be asked to leave certain areas.
Respect local customs
Balinese culture places a strong emphasis on respect, and public drunkenness is generally frowned upon. Avoid excessive drinking in public spaces to maintain a good impression.
No alcohol near temples and sacred sites
Temples and other religious areas are strictly off-limits for drinking. Consuming alcohol in these places is seen as highly disrespectful.
Law enforcement discretion
While Bali is quite lenient compared to other parts of Indonesia, laws can still be enforced at the discretion of authorities. If you’re causing a disturbance, you could face fines or even be asked to leave certain areas.
Read more: Do and Don’ts in Bali For Tourists and Travelers
Best Place to Drink Alcohol in Bali
The criteria for a good place to drink alcohol in Bali may vary from person to person, but one thing is certain it must have a relaxed atmosphere with great vibes. To be safe, it’s best to enjoy your drinks at bars, restaurants, beach clubs, or private accommodations where alcohol consumption is expected and welcomed.
If you’re looking for a memorable drinking experience in Bali, WOODS Bali is a fantastic choice. Decorated in a stylish yet relaxed and tranquil atmosphere, our bar and restaurant offer a great selection of cocktails, premium spirits, and locally inspired drinks. With our warm ambiance, beautifully crafted cocktails, and a menu featuring quality wines and spirits, this spot is perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. Whether you prefer a refreshing cocktail, a classic whiskey sour, or a local-inspired creation, WOODS Bali offers a refined yet welcoming experience for those who appreciate a great drink in a beautiful setting.
So, whether you’re keen on trying traditional Balinese spirits or sipping on a carefully curated cocktail, Bali has plenty of options to explore. Just remember to drink responsibly and enjoy the island’s vibrant drinking culture!
