First Time in Bali? 15 Savvy Tips to Navigate the Island Like a Local

15 Essential Tips for First-Timers in Bali: Your Complete Guide to a Perfect Island Adventure

Bali stands out as one of Indonesia’s most visited destinations, drawing millions of travelers each year with its beaches, temples, and rice terraces. If you’re planning your first trip to the island, you’ll want to know what to expect before you arrive. The island has its own customs, practical challenges, and local systems that differ from those of other Southeast Asian countries.

This guide covers 15 essential tips that will help you prepare for your Bali trip, from visa requirements and transportation to cultural norms and safety advice. You’ll learn about the best time to visit, how to handle money, where to stay, and how to respect local traditions. These tips will help you avoid common mistakes and make your first Bali experience smoother and more enjoyable.

1) Visit during the dry season from April to October for the best weather.

Bali’s dry season runs from April through October. During these months, you’ll experience sunny days, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall.

The best weather typically occurs between May and September. You can expect clear skies and calm conditions, perfect for beach activities, temple visits, and outdoor adventures.

Rain is rare during the dry season, though brief showers can still happen occasionally. The temperature stays warm and consistent throughout these months, usually ranging from 80 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

Keep in mind that July and August are peak tourist months. You’ll find crowded beaches and higher prices during this time. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds while still enjoying good weather, consider visiting in May, June, or September.

2) Get a visa on arrival or apply for an Indonesian visa beforehand

You need a valid passport with at least six months remaining from your arrival date to enter Bali. Most visitors from 97 eligible countries can get a Visa on Arrival at the airport.

The VOA costs money and allows you to stay for 30 days. You can extend it once for another 30 days at a local immigration office for an additional fee.

You have two options for getting your VOA. You can apply online before your trip through the official Indonesian eVisa website, or you can get it upon arrival at the airport.

The online application lets you skip some lines at immigration by using digital autogates. If you choose to get it at the airport, bring cash or a credit card to pay the fee.

Make sure you register digitally before arrival to use the faster processing lanes and avoid delays.

3) Pre-book airport transfers to avoid delays and scams

Booking your airport transfer before you arrive in Bali protects you from common scams and inflated prices. When you land at Ngurah Rai International Airport, taxi drivers may approach you with rates two or three times higher than standard fares. Some drivers claim their meters are broken or quote flat rates that seem reasonable but turn out to be excessive.

Pre-booking gives you a confirmed price and eliminates the stress of negotiating after a long flight. You’ll know exactly who is picking you up and where to meet them.

Licensed companies provide safe vehicles and trained drivers who are familiar with the routes. This saves you time and helps you avoid getting lost or taking unnecessarily long routes.

Book through reputable companies with verified reviews. Make sure you receive a confirmation email with your driver’s details and contact information before your trip.

4) Use local transport like Blue Bird taxis for safe and reliable rides

Getting around Bali safely starts with choosing the right transportation. Blue Bird taxis are the most trusted metered taxi service on the island. You can spot them by their bright blue cars.

You can hail Blue Bird taxis on the street or book through their official app. The meters are reliable, and drivers won’t try to overcharge you like some other services might.

For even more options, download Grab or Gojek on your phone. These ride-hailing apps offer cheap, cashless rides in cars or motorbikes. They work well in most areas.

Keep in mind that some areas, like Ubud and Canggu, have “no-ride-hailing” zones where these apps are restricted. In those areas, Blue Bird taxis or private drivers become your best choice.

Avoid unmarked taxis or drivers who refuse to use the meter. Stick with Blue Bird, Grab, or Gojek for safe and fair-priced rides around the island.

5) Respect temple etiquette: wear a sarong and avoid loud behavior

Bali Women in Traditional Dress Carrying Offerings

Bali’s temples are active places of worship, not just tourist attractions. When you visit, please dress modestly and follow local customs.

You must wear a sarong that covers your knees and a sash around your waist. If you’re wearing a sleeveless top, cover your shoulders with a scarf or light jacket. Many temples provide sarongs at the entrance, but bringing your own is more reliable.

Remove your shoes when signs or staff ask you to. Watch where you point your feet, as pointing them at shrines or priests is disrespectful.

Keep your voice low when walking through temple grounds. If a ceremony is happening, maintain a respectful distance and avoid using flash photography. Never sit higher than a priest during religious activities.

These simple rules help you experience Bali’s spiritual sites with respect.

6) Carry some Indonesian Rupiah for small purchases and markets

The Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is Bali’s official currency. You’ll need physical cash for many daily transactions.

Small vendors at markets don’t accept credit cards. The same goes for street food stalls, local taxis, and temple entrance fees. Many small shops and warungs only take cash, too.

Keep smaller bills on hand for these purchases. Notes like 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 Rupiah work best. Vendors often can’t break large bills.

You can get Rupiah from ATMs across Bali. Money changers are another option, but choose authorized ones to avoid scams.

Don’t carry all your money as cash. Bring enough for a day or two of small purchases. Leave the rest secure at your accommodation or use cards at larger establishments that accept them.

7) Avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled or filtered water.

Tap water in Bali is not safe to drink. The local water system contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you sick.

You should always use bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Most hotels and restaurants understand this and provide safe drinking options for guests.

Bottled water is widely available at convenience stores, supermarkets, and small shops throughout the island. It’s inexpensive and easy to find wherever you go.

If you want to reduce plastic waste, consider bringing a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter. Many accommodations also offer refill stations with purified water for guests.

Be careful with ice in drinks, especially at smaller local establishments. The ice may be made from tap water. Stick to drinks without ice or ask if the ice comes from purified water sources.

8) Book accommodations in popular areas like Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu

Picking the right area to stay in Bali makes a big difference in your trip. The island is large, and each region offers different experiences.

Ubud sits inland among rice terraces and forests. You’ll find yoga studios, art galleries, and cultural sites here. It’s cooler than the coast and popular with people who want a quieter, nature-focused stay.

Seminyak is a beach town known for its restaurants, beach clubs, and shopping. The area has more upscale hotels and a lively atmosphere. You can walk to many places along the beach road.

Canggu attracts surfers and digital nomads. It has a laid-back vibe with cafes, surf breaks, and rice paddies nearby. The area is less polished than Seminyak but offers good value.

Choose based on what you want to do. Beach lovers should pick coastal areas. Culture seekers will prefer Ubud.

9) Try local foods such as Nasi Goreng and Babi Guling at traditional warungs

Warungs are small, family-owned restaurants where locals eat every day. These casual spots serve authentic Balinese food at low prices.

Nasi goreng is Indonesian fried rice mixed with vegetables, egg, and your choice of chicken, shrimp, or other proteins. You’ll find it on every warung menu, and locals eat it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Babi guling is roasted suckling pig stuffed with spices and herbs. It’s one of Bali’s most famous traditional dishes. The meat is tender and flavorful, served with rice and vegetables.

When you visit a warung, look for places filled with local people. These busy spots usually have the freshest food. Don’t expect fancy decor or air conditioning, but the authentic flavors make up for the basic setting.

Meals at warungs typically cost between $2 to $5.

10) Use a reliable VPN to stay secure on public Wi-Fi networks

Public Wi-Fi networks are common in Bali’s cafes, hotels, and coworking spaces. However, these networks can expose your personal information to security risks.

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address. This makes it much harder for others to access your data while you browse.

When you connect to public Wi-Fi without protection, hackers can potentially intercept your passwords, bank details, and personal messages. A VPN creates a secure tunnel for your data to pass through.

Choose a VPN service before you travel to Bali. Install it on your phone, laptop, and tablet. Turn it on whenever you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Many reliable VPN options are available at different price points. Pick one that fits your budget and has good reviews. The small cost is worth the protection of your sensitive information while traveling.

11) Keep insect repellent handy to protect against mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes are common in Bali, especially near rice fields and during the rainy season. You need to carry insect repellent with you at all times.

Look for products containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These ingredients work well to keep mosquitoes away. You can find repellent sprays and lotions at local stores across the island.

Apply repellent to all exposed skin before heading outdoors. Reapply it every few hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.

Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing when possible to minimize exposed skin. This gives you extra protection along with the repellent.

Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Stay extra careful during these times or consider staying indoors. Keep repellent in your day bag so you can use it whenever needed throughout your trip.

12) Avoid touching or taking photos without permission from locals

Balinese Farmer at Tegallalang Ubud, Bali Indonesia by AJ via Unsplash

Always ask permission before taking photos of Balinese people. This simple act shows respect for their privacy and follows local customs. Many locals may feel uncomfortable being photographed without consent, especially at sacred sites or during religious ceremonies.

When you want to photograph someone, make eye contact and gesture with your camera to ask for permission. A smile and a friendly approach usually work well. If someone says no or looks uncomfortable, respect their decision and move on.

Touching people without permission is also inappropriate in Bali. The head is considered sacred in Balinese culture, so never touch someone’s head, even a child’s. Keep a respectful distance when interacting with locals.

Some places charge a small fee for photos with locals in traditional dress. This is acceptable and supports their livelihood. Just be clear about any costs before taking pictures.

13) Be cautious when renting scooters; always wear a helmet and have an international license.

Renting a scooter is one of the most popular ways to get around Bali. It gives you freedom to explore at your own pace.

You need an International Driving Permit to legally ride a scooter in Bali. Without one, you risk fines from police and could invalidate your travel insurance. Make sure you get this document before you leave home.

Always wear a helmet when riding. Bali’s traffic can be chaotic, with many scooters weaving through the streets. Accidents have increased in tourist areas like Canggu.

Before you ride off, check the scooter carefully. Test the brakes and make sure the tires are properly inflated. Look for any existing damage and take photos.

Consider wearing additional protective gear, such as gloves and knee pads. These items add another layer of safety on busy roads.

14) Use cash for small vendors, but cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants

Bali’s payment landscape requires you to carry both cash and cards. Major hotels, upscale restaurants, and shopping malls accept credit cards without issues. These establishments have modern payment systems that process international cards smoothly.

Small vendors, local warungs, and street markets operate on a cash-only basis. You’ll need Indonesian Rupiah for beach vendors, local eateries, and transportation like taxis or ojeks. Many family-run businesses don’t have card readers due to transaction fees and infrastructure costs.

ATMs are common in tourist areas like Seminyak, Ubud, and Sanur. Withdraw enough cash for daily expenses, but keep larger purchases on your card for security.

Plan to use cash for transactions under 200,000 Rupiah. Save your card for hotel bills, tour bookings, and dining at established restaurants. This approach ensures you’re prepared for any payment situation across the island.

Woman at Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Bali

15) Learn basic Indonesian greetings like ‘Selamat pagi’ and ‘Terima kasih.’

Learning a few Indonesian phrases will make your Bali trip more enjoyable. Locals appreciate it when visitors make an effort to speak their language.

Start with time-based greetings. “Selamat pagi” (suh-lah-mat pah-gee) means good morning. “Selamat siang” works for midday, and “Selamat sore” for afternoon.

“Terima kasih” (teh-ree-mah kah-see) means thank you. You’ll use this phrase often when shopping, dining, or receiving help. “Sama-sama” is the response meaning you’re welcome.

Other useful phrases include “Halo” for hello and “Permisi” for excuse me. “Berapa harga?” asks how much something costs, which helps when shopping at markets.

Most Balinese people speak some English, but using Indonesian shows respect. They’ll often smile and respond more warmly when you try their language. You don’t need perfect pronunciation. Making the effort matters more than getting every word exactly right.

Navigating Balinese Culture and Customs

Bali’s Hindu culture shapes daily life through temple ceremonies, traditional dress codes, and social interactions. Learning basic customs and phrases will help you connect with locals and show respect for their traditions.

Respectful Dress and Temple Etiquette

You need to cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples. A sarong and sash are required at most sacred sites, and many temples provide these at the entrance for a small fee or donation.

Women who are menstruating should not enter temples, as this is considered ritually impure in Balinese Hindu beliefs. Always enter the temple gates on the right and exit on the left.

Remove your shoes before entering temple grounds or any sacred area. Never sit higher than a priest during ceremonies, and avoid pointing your feet at shrines or religious objects.

Temple visit checklist:

Sarong and sash
Modest clothing
Respectful behavior during ceremonies
No climbing on sacred structures
Photography restrictions may apply

Understanding Local Etiquette

Use your right hand when giving or receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean. This applies to money, food, and gifts.

Keep your head lower than that of elders or respected community members as a sign of respect. Touching someone’s head is offensive because Balinese people believe the head is the most sacred part of the body.

Bargaining is common at markets, but do it with a smile and respect. Don’t point with your index finger; use your thumb instead, with your fingers folded down.

Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum. Hand-holding is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public can make locals uncomfortable.

Key Balinese Phrases for Travelers

Learning basic Balinese and Indonesian words helps you build rapport with locals. Most Balinese people speak both languages, with Indonesian being more widely understood.

Essential phrases:

Balinese/Indonesian	English
Om Swastiastu	Traditional Balinese greeting
Terima kasih	Thank you
Permisi	Excuse me
Berapa harganya?	How much does it cost?
Tidak, terima kasih	No, thank you
Tolong	Please/Help
Maaf	Sorry

Start conversations with “Om Swastiastu” when greeting Balinese people, especially in rural areas. In tourist areas, “Hello” or “Selamat pagi” (good morning) works fine.

Locals appreciate it when you try to speak their language, even if you only know a few words. Your effort to communicate in Indonesian or Balinese shows respect for their culture.

Staying Safe and Healthy in Bali

Bali requires some basic precautions around what you eat and drink, how you get around, and how you handle your money. These simple steps will help you avoid the most common problems travelers face.

Drinking Water and Food Safety

Never drink tap water in Bali. The local water system contains bacteria that your body isn’t used to, which can make you sick.

Always drink bottled water and check that the seal is intact before opening. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth, too. Most hotels and restaurants provide safe drinking water, but it’s better to confirm.

Ice is usually safe at established restaurants and hotels since they typically use filtered water. However, avoid ice at street stalls or small warungs if you’re unsure of the source.

Choose busy restaurants with good hygiene practices. A crowded local spot often means the food is fresh and turns over quickly. Look for clean cooking areas and food that’s cooked thoroughly in front of you.

Wash your hands often, especially before eating. Carry hand sanitizer for times when soap and water aren’t available. Street food can be delicious and safe if you pick vendors carefully.

Important Tips on Bali’s Transportation

Bali’s roads can be chaotic and dangerous if you’re not prepared. Traffic moves on the left side, and local driving habits differ significantly from those in Western countries.

Renting a scooter is popular but comes with real risks. You need an international driving permit and travel insurance that covers scooter accidents. Many insurance policies exclude scooter coverage, so check your policy carefully. Wear a helmet every time you ride.

Hire a private driver if you’re uncomfortable with Bali’s traffic. Drivers cost around $50-60 per day and know the roads well. They can also recommend good spots and help with translations.

Use ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek for shorter trips. These services are safer and cheaper than unmarked taxis. Always confirm the driver’s license plate matches the app before getting in.

Managing Money and Avoiding Common Scams

ATMs are widely available, but you need to be smart about using them. Use ATMs inside banks or secured locations rather than standalone machines on the street.

Keep small bills handy for daily purchases. Many vendors claim they don’t have change for large notes. Break big bills at supermarkets or your hotel.

Count your change carefully every time. Some vendors may short-change tourists, hoping you won’t notice. This isn’t always intentional, but it happens often enough to stay alert.

Common scams to watch for include taxi drivers who refuse to use the meter, tour operators who add hidden fees, and money changers who use sleight of hand. Agree on prices before services, and use official bank exchange services.

Don’t carry large amounts of cash. Split your money between your accommodation safe and what you carry daily. Keep backup cards separate from your main wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions

New visitors to Bali often have questions about navigating the island’s top attractions, managing money, respecting local customs, arranging transportation, staying safe, and maintaining good health during their trip.

What are the must-visit attractions in Bali for first-time visitors?

Ubud should be at the top of your list. This cultural heart of Bali features the Sacred Monkey Forest, traditional markets, and stunning rice terraces at Tegalalang.

The ancient temples are essential stops on any first visit. Tanah Lot sits dramatically on a rock formation in the ocean, while Uluwatu Temple perches on a cliff with sunset views and daily Kecak dance performances.

You’ll want to experience at least one of Bali’s beautiful beaches. Seminyak offers upscale beach clubs and dining, while Nusa Dua provides calm waters perfect for swimming.

The Tegalalang Rice Terraces near Ubud showcase Bali’s iconic landscape. You can walk through the terraces and see traditional irrigation systems still in use today.

Mount Batur is popular for sunrise treks. The hike takes about two hours and rewards you with views over the volcanic landscape and Lake Batur below.

How should I handle currency exchange and payment methods in Bali?

Indonesia uses the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). You should exchange money at official currency exchange offices or withdraw cash from ATMs rather than accepting street exchange offers.

ATMs are widely available in tourist areas. Look for machines from major banks like BCA, Mandiri, or BNI for the most reliable service and reasonable fees.

Many restaurants, hotels, and shops in tourist areas accept credit cards. However, you’ll need cash for small warungs, local markets, street food, and transportation.

Notify your bank before traveling to Bali. This prevents them from blocking your card when they see foreign transactions.

Always carry small bills for daily purchases. Many local vendors cannot make change for large denominations, such as 100,000 or 500,000 rupiah notes.

What cultural etiquette should I be aware of to respect local traditions in Bali?

You must wear a sarong and sash when entering temples. Many temples provide these at the entrance if you don’t have your own.

Keep your head below religious statues and priests. In Balinese culture, the head is considered sacred, while the feet are considered unclean.

Don’t point at people or things with your feet. Use your right hand when giving or receiving items, as the left hand is considered impure.

Dress modestly when visiting temples or villages. Cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing in religious or rural areas.

Avoid loud behavior and public displays of affection. Balinese culture values quiet, respectful conduct in public spaces.

Don’t step on offerings placed on the ground. These small palm-leaf baskets, filled with flowers and incense, are daily offerings to the gods.

What is the best way to get around the island for newcomers?

Blue Bird taxis are the most reliable taxi service in Bali. They use meters and have a good reputation for honest pricing.

You can rent a scooter if you have an international driving permit and experience riding motorcycles. Be aware that traffic in Bali can be chaotic, and roads may be unfamiliar.

Private drivers offer day rates starting around 600,000 to 800,000 rupiah. This option works well for visiting multiple sites in one day with door-to-door service.

Ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab operate in Bali. These services offer both car and motorcycle options at fixed prices you can see before booking.

Consider the distance between areas when planning your days. Traffic can be heavy, and a trip that looks short on a map might take much longer than expected.

What are the recommended safety tips for travelers in Bali?

Keep your belongings secure at all times. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets and tourist areas, so use a money belt or secure bag.

Be cautious when renting scooters. Many visitors underestimate Bali’s traffic conditions and end up with injuries from accidents.

Avoid unregistered tour operators and guides. Book through established companies or your hotel to ensure proper insurance and safety standards.

Watch your drinks in bars and clubs. While serious incidents are rare, it’s smart to keep your drink in sight at all times.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. Make sure it covers scooter accidents if you plan to ride, as many policies exclude motorcycle coverage.

Use registered money changers and count your cash carefully. Some dishonest changers use sleight of hand to short-change tourists.

How can I manage health concerns, including food safety and medical care, while in Bali?

Drink only bottled or filtered water throughout your stay. This includes brushing your teeth with bottled water and avoiding ice in drinks unless you’re at a reputable establishment.

Start with cooked foods at restaurants before trying street food. Your stomach needs time to adjust to new bacteria, so ease into local cuisine gradually.

Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer. This simple step prevents many digestive issues that affect travelers.

Bring basic medications from home. Pack anti-diarrheal medicine, pain relievers, antihistamines, and any prescription medications you need.

International clinics in Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud provide Western-standard medical care. BIMC Hospital and Siloam Hospital are reliable options for emergencies or serious health concerns.

Consider vaccinations before traveling. Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are commonly recommended for Bali, though requirements vary by individual health history.

Apply mosquito repellent regularly to prevent dengue fever. Use products containing DEET and consider treating clothing with permethrin for extra protection.