Southern Bali is beautiful and mellow, it’s the perfect place to escape the party scenes of Kuta and the tourist packed streets of Ubud. The sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing and top notch surf spots are all along the coast.

STAY

Aman Gati Hotel: Perched up on the cliff above Balangan beach, the Aman Gati Hotel offers Bali style cabanas and comfortable luxury. The bungalows are about $70 per night and includes the traditional Indonesian breakfast. It’s an easy walk down to the beach from the hotel and to other restaurants and resorts in the area.

Balangan Paradise Hostel & Restaurant: If you are looking for more budget friendly accommodation a private room at the Balangan Paradise Hostel is about $17 per night. It’s right on the beach and has great views.

EAT & DRINK

Cafe La Pasion: I would never have thought that we’d find such good Mexican food in Indonesia, but Cafe La Passion is delicious! Chow down on tacos while listening to live music and watching old surf movies on the open air patio.

Surfers Cafe or any beach side restaurant: There are a few restaurants along the beach at Balangan that are perfect for grabbing a some good Indonesian food and a Bintang while watching the surf.

La Joya Restaurant: If you are looking for a fancy diner, La Joya Restaurant at the La Joya Resort is perfect. The beautiful outdoor setting and delicious food will make any occasion special.

DO

Surf: Whether you are a seasoned pro or excited to learn, southern Bali is perfect for surfing. More advanced surfers will want to hit the beach at Uluwatu or Padang Padang. While newbies should take a surf lesson at Balangan beach.

Uluwatu: This beautiful temple up on the cliff is a must see. The temple complex winds along the cliffside with spectacular views of the ocean and beach. You can also catch a glimpse of the monkey that live on the grounds, but make sure to keep track of your things, they have been known to steal from unsuspecting tourists. It is a temple so make sure to dress appropriately, that means legs and shoulders should be covered.

Beach: You are in Bali so a beach day is pretty much a must. Balangan beach is awesome for hanging out on for the day with it’s big sandy beach area plus the beach side restaurants for when you get hungry. Or check out Suluban beach for some awesome views of limestone rock formations.

Yoga: Yoga and Bali seem to go hand in hand. Try a beachside yoga class at Balangan beach or go for a full yoga retreat with Yoga Searcher Bali at Uluwatu.

NOTES

Weather: It is warm, sunny and tropical most of the year, with the rainy season being from October to March

Money: The Indonesian Rupiah, it is 1 USD = 13309 IDR. Most places are cash only and there didn’t seem to be a ton of ATM around, so make sure to get cash out at the airport or while in a bigger city.

Transportation: It is very easy to rent a scooter to cruise around on your own. Or for longer journeys you can hire a car, all the hotels will have this service.