The 3 Best Places To Visit In Bali To Get Off The Typical Tourist Trail

Bali has long been a favourite for travellers looking for breathtaking beaches, spiritual retreats, and vibrant nightlife. And while places like Ubud and Canggu often top everyone’s Bali bucket list, there’s so much more to this island than its busy tourist hubs. 

If you’re craving something more authentic, less crowded, and rich in natural beauty, we’ve got you covered. After spending 2 months exploring Bali’s ‘less discovered’ corners, we’ve narrowed it down to three incredible places that promise a fresh adventure and a taste of the quieter side of island life. 

Munduk, Nusa Ceningan, and Medewi each have their own unique charm, and we’re here to show you exactly why these spots are the best places to visit in Bali when you want to escape the usual tourist trail.

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Munduk – Bali’s Hidden Rainforest Village

If tranquillity, adventure, and a cool mountain breeze sound like your idea of heaven, Munduk is calling your name. Located just a couple of hours north of Ubud, this picturesque village is tucked into Bali’s rainforest-laden hills, offering an entirely different vibe from the bustling south.

When we arrived in Munduk, we instantly fell in love thanks to the vibrant landscape and welcoming locals. The mornings were refreshingly cooler, the evenings even cool enough for a jumper, and the pace of life just… slowed. Plus, Munduk’s landscape is pure magic. Think cascading waterfalls, undulating rice terraces, and mist rolling over Tamblingan Lake. We spent nearly a week exploring Munduk, and it still wasn’t enough to see it all. 

What to Do in Munduk 

Get Lost in the Beauty of Countless Waterfalls

Munduk’s fame lies in its abundance of waterfalls, which are far less crowded than those surrounding Ubud and easily more spectacular. Our top three favourites are Banyu Wana Amertha, Melanting Waterfall and Labuhan Kebo Waterfall.

Find out more about these breathtaking waterfalls and how to get there in our guide to the best waterfalls in Munduk.

Wander the Dayanu Rice Terraces

The Dayanu Rice Terraces in Munduk are stunning, yet hardly anyone knows about them or visits them. Wander through lush green fields and, if you’re brave, ride a scooter on the narrow paths (not for the faint-hearted!).

Taste Local Coffee

The coffee culture in Munduk is rich and authentic. We discovered Bali Bagus Coffee Plantation on the way back from Banyumala Waterfall, where an intimate garden tour led to tastings of unique blends, including avocado coffee, coconut coffee, and their famous Luwak coffee – you have to try it, even if you just manage a sip!

Visit Tamblingan Lake 

For sunrise lovers, this is your spot. Watching the sun rise slowly over Tamblingan Lake and the temple bordering the shoreline is worth the early morning start. After watching the sunrise, stay for a paddle on the lake or wander the walking trails that link Tamblingan Lake and Lake Buyan.

This is just a taste of what you can expect from Munduk. Check out our guide on the best things to do in Munduk for more suggestions.

Where to Eat in Munduk

Munduk is packed full of authentic and local cafes and restaurants, known as Warungs. Our top three that you should not miss are Warung Enjoy Cafe 2, Warung Genitri, and Warung Made’s Cafe.

For a more indulgent experience, treat yourself to a night at Ulekan – we promise you won’t regret it! Picture beautifully plated Balinese dishes in a trendy restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lush rainforest-clad hills. We couldn’t get enough of their modern twist on local flavours. 

Where To Stay In Munduk

Munduk offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets. During our visit, we stayed at two incredible places – the cosy, budget-friendly Da’Kayu Bali Homestay and the luxurious Munduk Menir Villas.

We loved both stays for their own unique reasons. At Da’Kayu, our warm and attentive host provided excellent local tips on what to do and where to eat, making our experience truly personal. On the other hand, our villa at Munduk Menir was breathtaking, with panoramic views of the lush, forested hills stretching out below. Each experience added something special to our time in Munduk.

Getting to Munduk 

From Ubud, you can take a taxi or rent a scooter for the 2.5-hour drive up winding mountain roads. It’s an adventure in itself with panoramic views along the way. Make sure to shop around and check the price on apps like Grab or Gojek to ensure you’re not getting ripped off.

Nusa Ceningan: The Adventurous Island Escape 

Feeling a bit crowded in Bali? Hop on a boat to Nusa Ceningan, where adventure meets quiet bliss. Tucked between its more popular cousins, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, this petite island is where turquoise waters meet cliff-jumping spots, hidden beaches, and a more laid-back island vibe.

We spent two weeks here, and it was the kind of place that made us want to extend our stay again and again. With very few crowds, endless outdoor adventures, and staggering sunsets, Nusa Ceningan feels a world away from Bali’s mainland.

What to Do in Nusa Ceningan

Surf at Mahana Point

If you’re an experienced surfer, Mahana Point delivers some of the best (and least crowded) left-hand waves we’ve come across in Bali. Even if you don’t surf, grab a drink at the cliffside bar and watch the action. 

Discover The Not-So Secret Beach

Hidden down a bumpy road, Secret Beach really does feel like a hidden treasure – even if it’s not so secret anymore. The clear turquoise waters and soft white sand make it an ideal spot to relax or snorkel. Bring a good book and settle in for a blissful few hours.

Swim with Manta Rays 

One of the most awe-inspiring experiences we had on Nusa Ceningan was snorkelling alongside manta rays. Words can’t describe the feeling of swimming so close to these majestic creatures. Boat tours also include stops at other vibrant snorkelling sites, making it a highlight of any trip to Bali.

Pro Tip: Be wary of doing this snorkelling trip in the wet season (October – March), when the currents cause the sites to become inundated with rubbish. Instead, consider doing a scuba diving trip, which was way more enjoyable and offered an even more intimate experience with the manta rays.

Experience Coffee Done Differently at The Nomad 

Coffee isn’t just a beverage at The Nomad – it’s an experience. Mochran and his handmade brewing tool will take you through a tasting like no other. Discover how the flavours change depending on the cup material (ceramic vs glass vs porcelain). It’s part coffee, part science experiment, and all-around memorable – especially when combined with lively conversation in a beautiful location.

Cliff Jump at Blue Lagoon and Mahana Point

One of the most exciting activities on Nusa Ceningan is tackling the thrilling cliff jumps along its southern coastline. The island boasts two cliff jumping spots that, in our opinion, rank among the best in Bali. Choose Mahana Point for a more controlled jump, or Blue Lagoon for a truly nail-biting experience – just remember to time your jump during high tide for safety.

Catch the Sunset at Shiroi Lookout

For the best sunset views on the island, head to Shiroi Lookout. It’s a peaceful spot near Mahana Point, offering easy access and unbeatable views. Our evenings on the island always ended here, watching the fiery colours of the sunset fill the horizon. Pure bliss.

Check out our guide on the best things to do in Nusa Ceningan for more tips, information and suggestions.

Where To Eat In Nusa Ceningan

Nusa Ceningan is the ultimate destination for enjoying smoothie bowls and freshly caught seafood by the water. We couldn’t get enough of the smoothie bowls at Sea Breeze, or the fresh fish kebabs at Yuyu’s Resto – our favourite Warung on Nusa Ceningan.

However, if you’re craving something a little more Western, you must visit Mista Ceningan’s Beach Bar. Owned by an Aussie expat, he specialises in bringing your favourite meals to Bali, such as steak and chips or a delicious burger. Just be prepared to be welcomed as if you’re long-lost friends!

For more delicious smoothie bowl recommendations, check out our guide to the best smoothie bowls in Nusa Ceningan.

Where To Stay In Nusa Ceningan

During our stay in Nusa Ceningan, we chose Secret Point Huts, a budget-friendly option conveniently located near surfing spots and beaches. While the location was excellent, the staff and rooms left something to be desired.

For better value, we recommend Twilight Huts nearby, which offers improved service at a similar price point. However, if you want to indulge a little, Arna Suites and Ocean Lounge provide a luxurious escape well worth the splurge.

Getting to Nusa Ceningan

To reach Nusa Ceningan, you’ll take a 30-minute boat ride from Sanur, Bali, to Telatak Harbour on Nusa Lembongan. This will deliver you close to the iconic Yellow Bridge, which connects the two islands. From there, you can either arrange a pick-up with your accommodation or rent a scooter at the harbour to cross the bridge and continue your journey to your accommodation.

You can easily purchase boat tickets from several stores near the port or book online through Bali Ferries to avoid missing out.

Medewi: The Surfer’s Hidden Gem 

Our final destination takes us to Medewi, a surf town on Bali’s western coast, where laid-back is a way of life. If you’re looking for beach clubs and trendy cafes, this isn’t your spot. But if you love uncrowded surf, windy roads, and warm, friendly locals, you might never want to leave.

This west-coast town is a haven for surfers and anyone looking to escape Bali’s faster pace. It’s still relatively untouched by mass tourism but growing in popularity, so now is the time to visit.

What To Do In Medewi

Surf the Longest Left-Hand Break 

Medewi is home to Bali’s longest left-hand point break. If you’re a longboarder, this is your dream wave – cruisy, consistent, and perfect for carving. Beginners will love the mellow waves closer to shore, while experienced surfers can paddle out to the point for bigger breaks. 

While it’s gaining popularity, Medewi’s surf scene is still far less crowded than spots further south like Uluwatu and Canggu. Not to mention, the surf culture in the water is much more friendly and welcoming.

Explore the Rainforested Hills, Making a Stop at Bunut Bolong

Rent a scooter and head inland. The roads wind through vibrant rice paddies and up lush hillsides, leading to cute villages and spiritual destinations like Bunut Bolong, a sacred tree you can drive through.

Bunut Bolong is an enormous ancient banyan tree with a natural hollow large enough for a road to pass through. Aside from the novelty of driving through a tree, the views from nearby lookouts are breathtaking, making it a worthy adventure.

Discover Balinese History and Culture At Rambut Siwi Temple

Rambut Siwi Temple, perched atop the cliffs overlooking the coastline, invites visitors to pause and take in its quiet beauty. Unlike Bali’s more crowded temples, often bustling with souvenir stalls that can dampen the experience, Rambut Siwi offers a peaceful escape. 

A local guide will lead you through the grounds, sharing fascinating insights into the temple’s history and cultural significance. After the tour, you’re free to explore at your own pace. The guided tour, included in the ticket price, added immense value to our visit and made the experience all the more memorable.

Aim to arrive at Rambut Siwi Temple in the late afternoon so you can enjoy the sunset from the grounds after your tour.

Relax with a Beach Massage 

After a day of surfing or exploring, unwind with an hour-long massage at Magic Hand, located right by the beach. Though we didn’t get a chance to try it ourselves, it’s a local favourite among surfers, who can’t stop raving about the affordable yet exceptional massages.

There are countless other activities in Medewi to keep you occupied for days. Take a look at our guide to the best things to do in Medewi for more inspiration.

Where To Eat In Medewi

Our favourite local spot to eat in Medewi was Rasta Cafe, where the delicious food was only rivalled by the genuine warmth of the owners. Nal’s Kitchen is another favourite for locals and expats alike, offering a mix of traditional and Western meals.

Or if you’re looking for a delicious fine dining experience, we highly recommend Kokos Cafe at Umedewi. With stunning views, impeccable service, and an outstanding menu, it’s a splurge that’s truly worth it.

Where To Stay In Medewi

We stayed at Bombora Medewi, a surf retreat located directly in front of the famous left-hand surf break. While it was a little expensive, the location, cosy rooms and beachside pool were well worth it. Not to mention, it was the best included breakfast we had for our whole Bali trip.

However, we suggest adding a note to your booking to ensure you get a room that’s off the road to avoid the loud noises at night.

If you’d rather a more low-key, budget accommodation option, Medewi Beach Inn or Mai Malu, just up the road, are both popular for returning surfers.

Getting to Medewi 

Medewi is about a 2.5- to 3-hour drive from Denpasar. Hiring a private driver is the most common way to get here, which we booked through our accommodation in Canggu. It was far cheaper to book a driver from the more populated Canggu than to organise one with our accommodation in Medewi.

If you’re highly confident riding a scooter, this can also be a good way to get there, as the roads are relatively straightforward.

Final Thoughts

Exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations in Bali isn’t just about escaping the crowds, it’s about discovering the slower, deeper rhythms of island life. It’s easy to get caught up in the classic Bali tourist experience, but stepping off the beaten path opens up a whole new world.

Whether you’re wandering the verdant trails of Munduk, cliff-jumping on Nusa Ceningan, or catching waves in Medewi, these spots will feed your need for adventure and connection. You’ll trade bustling tourist crowds for tranquil landscapes, and generic experiences for stories that will stay with you forever. 

If you’ve been to any of these spots or have your own off-the-beaten-path Bali recommendations, we’d love to hear your stories in the comments below. And if you’re planning your Bali adventure, don’t hesitate to ask us questions – we’re here to help! 

Happy adventuring 🙂