First Time in Bali — Essential Guide for New Visitors

Everything a first-time visitor to Bali needs to know — from getting through the airport on day one to navigating etiquette, transport, money, health and what to do if things go wrong. Bali is a wonderful first destination; a little preparation makes it even better.

Before you fly — the checklist

  • ✅ Check your visa requirements — most nationalities get VOA or visa-free, but confirm your country's rules.
  • ✅ Pay the Bali Tourist Levy — IDR 150,000 (~$10) at lovebali.baliprov.go.id before you fly.
  • ✅ Get travel insurance — ensure it covers scooter riding, water sports and medical evacuation.
  • ✅ Download apps: Grab, Gojek, Google Maps (with Bali offline), WhatsApp.
  • ✅ Pre-book airport transfer — avoids the Kuta taxi gauntlet. Book here.
  • ✅ Pack reef-safe sunscreen — hard to buy locally, expensive if found.

Where to stay for first-timers

Your first time in Bali is best spent in a base that's well-connected and doesn't require a scooter to get around. Top picks:

  • Seminyak — Beach clubs, fine dining, walkable. Great balance of comfort and atmosphere.
  • Ubud — Culture, rice terraces, yoga. Perfect if temples and nature are your priority.
  • Canggu — Cafés, surf, Instagram vibes. Best for travellers aged 25–35.
  • Nusa Dua — Calm beaches, family resorts. Best for families with young children.

Top 5 first-time experiences

  1. Watch a Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu — sunset + drama + culture in one unmissable show.
  2. Visit Tegallalang Rice Terraces — the iconic green terraces north of Ubud.
  3. Take a Balinese cooking class — market tour + cook your own nasi goreng and satay.
  4. Sunrise trek on Mount Batur — one of the most rewarding hikes in Southeast Asia.
  5. Day trip to Nusa Penida — Kelingking Beach and Crystal Bay are unmissable.
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