Bali is a much visited island paradise. The Island of The Gods draws tourists who flock to experience thumping nightlife, world-class surfing, mystical temples and verdant vistas, but what do you do when you have been there and done that? After my fifth visit to Bali I thought I had seen in all, so in a quest to mix up our itinerary, I made it my mission to seek out the extra-ordinary. When I was compiling my epic list of 110+ things to do in Bali, I uncovered 23 unexpected things to do in Bali which deserved a blog post all of their own. I guarantee some of these will surprise you! Read on for all the details …
Unexpected Things To Do In Bali
I haven’t tested out everything on this list but I have done the first five. The good news for me is that I travel to Bali often so it won’t be long before I can start ticking the rest off my wish list …
1. Make Your Own Perfume
L’Atelier Parfums et Créations’ perfume making workshops are a fabulous way to spend an afternoon and at only USD$80 including a 30ml bottle of perfume, its great value. L’Atelier has two locations at Jimbaran and Nusa Dua so they are easily accessible from most of the island. I highly recommend this one! All the details on my visit to L’Atelier here.
2. Make A Piece Of Jewellery
Jewellery stores abound in Bali and silver is a specialty, but if you are after something a little more unique why not make your own? The hubs and I had a great morning learning the ropes at Chez Monique in Ubud and our creations are almost as good as the professionals but much more personal. Read all about our Chez Monique class here.
3. Get Your Freak On
Theater restaurants have notoriously bad reputations for horrible food and amateurish shows. Even knowing this, I still couldn’t resist Frankensteins Laboratory. The food was a bit ordinary but the atmosphere was a whole lot of fun. If you really feel like getting into the spirit, you can even get your face painted. Read my full review of Frankensteins here.
4. Amp Up You Smile
I am well aware that visiting the dentist is most people’s idea of hell so it seems like a very unlikely activity to undertake willingly but ‘destination dentistry’ really is a thing! If you are considering a mouth makeover for a fraction of the cost read my full review of BIMC Bali here.
5. Measure Me Up!
I love getting leather jackets tailor-made when I am in Bali and have had three made over the years. One of my favourites is the baby blue leather biker jacket worn below but check out the other two here and here. I always go to Joey 47 in Kuta. He doesn’t have a website (why? This is 2019!!!) but his shop is across the road from Jamie’s Italian and about 200 metres up. Jl Pantai Kuta N0 47 Little Square Kuta Bali Ph: +62 818 0568 4999
6. Seal Your Love
Place an engraved padlock on Bridges love tree. You can bring your own or order one from them three days before your visit. If you have time stop in to the restaurant which gets rave reviews.
7. Turn Back Time
Growing up on a steady diet of Happy Days, I have long been fascinated with the idea of the American Diner. Watching Grease as a teenager made it all the more appealing. Cosmic Diner will satisfy for thirst for kitsch and fill your tummy with delicious burgers. Rock on Daddy-O!
8. Record A Song
Fancy yourself as the next big singing sensation? At the Hard Rock Hotel’s Boom Box Recording Studio you get a 90 minutes to record two songs and a CD to take home. Unleash you inner rock star for only IDR 550k.
9. French Cooking Class
Indonesian cooking classes are prolific, but who would have though you could learn the fine art of French cuisine in Bali? The Pearl Restaurant in Legian holds classes every Wednesday between 9am – 1pm where you can cook up a three course French feast for just IDR 990k.
10. Mix With The Locals
Enjoy a very special home cooked meal in a small Balinese village with your hosts to get a real appreciation of how the locals live through Traveling Spoon. With multiple host families dotted around the island you are almost sure to find one near you. I would love to visit Kedak and Putu and experience their traditional way of life. Experiences start at $25 and options are available to include transportation, a market visit, a rural farmhouse or a cooking experience with a professional Chef.
11. Tie The Knot
I love a destination wedding and if you do too why not tie the knot or renew your vows in style at The Diamond Bali. The spectacular diamond-shaped venue is amazing and has hosted the odd celebrity couple of two. One thing for sure, your photos will be amazing! I’m hoping to renew my vows here in 2018 for my 25th anniversary but I haven’t told The Hubs yet … Sssshhhh!
12. Steam Your Vagina
Yep you heard me right, steam your vagina. This ancient practice promises to renew your vagina and for Balinese women it is as common a part of their beauty regime as having a hair cut or a leg wax. Even more promising, it is said to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and make everything ‘tighter’ down there. I skipped the Queen V Steam during my visit to Cleopatra Luxury Day Spa & Salon but I am intrigued enough to consider it next time. What about you? I promise to share all the gory details if I do take the plunge!
13. Visit The Greenest School In The World
The aptly named Green School is located midway between Ubud and Seminyak and is touted as being the “Greenest School in the World”. Made largely out of bamboo and based on eco-friendly principles students come from the world over to attend. As with any private school the fees are steep which is out of reach of most local families. The school’s aim is to have 20% Balinese enrollments and your fee from the tour goes towards these scholarships. The best bit? You get to frolic around in the mud pit as part of your visit so don’t wear your best clothes. Book tours here or contact the school direct.
14. Stay In A Tree House
Just look at this place! I so want to stay here next time. The Pererepan villa at Villa Awangaawang in Ubud looks like the a perfect haven for relaxation and the infinity pool ain’t half bad either! From $190pn.
15. Release A Turtle
The Turtle Conversation and Education Center on Serengan Island is dedicated to eradicating the trade of illegal turtle products through education. You can ‘adopt’ a turtle’ to release back into the sea. Do something good!
16. Visit A Vineyard
I love a cellar door but surely it’s too hot to make wine in Bali right? Apparently not because Hatten Wines has worked out a way and they are winning awards doing it. Located on the North Shore it’s a little off the beaten track but if you can’t get to the vines you could always visit their state of the art cellar door in Sanur where you can also sample a variety of Two Islands wines as well. I really like the look of the Pino de Bali. The bottle is just so damn pretty that I am won over before I have even tasted a drop!
17. Harvest The Local Grain
Since Bali is famous for its rice terraces it makes sense that you can experience a farmer’s life first hand in this unusual 1 hour workshop. Be prepared to get dirty! USD$51
18. Drive Through A Tree
If you find yourself near Denpasar you may want to snap a quick pic at the Bunut Bolong Tree since it’s only about 11k’s north of the capital. Bunut Bolong literally means ‘tree with a hole’ and the local tradition says that the hole is so large any car can drive through it regardless of size.
19. Climb A Mountain
Mount Agung is Bali’s highest and holiest peak so this is not for the faint hearted. I cannot see myself doing the 12 hour trek but If you are braver check out Bali Volcano Trekking.
20. Farm Seaweed
With all the nori rolls consumed on planet Earth I guess seaweed farming was inevitable. If you want to find out more and see a beautiful island at the same time why not take a tour with Voyagin.
21. Buy Modern Art
I adore modern stainless steel sculptures and last trip I spied something fabulous whizz by my taxi window. We were tight on time and couldn’t really double back but I WILL make it to Chenergy Highend Handmade Sculpture soon … I will just need to figure out how to get any rather large purchases home … hmmm
Phew that’s a long list! If you are still craving more be sure to check out my epic list of 110+ things to do in Bali for inspiration. So which one’s take your fancy? I would love to hear your thoughts on your favourite unexpected things to do in Bali.
Until Next Time …
Disclaimer: I was a guest of L’Atelier and Cleopatra for my visits and received a reduced price at Chez Monique but as always, all opinions are my own.
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Jilbab anak chicory anak says
Thanks! Most people don’t and if I hadn’t purposefully sought out something different I could have easily have missed them.
Jual Natural Lechitin says
Thanks so much Joy. Glad you enjoyed it ?
Bali trekking tour says
Wow,thanks to informasion
I like your post
Kristina says
I would love to stay in a tree house! Ahh so cool. I haven’t made it to Bali yet, but I hope I get to go soon for sure. This is a wonderful list, I’d love to make my own jewelry!
Allison Smith says
We recently stayed in a treehouse in Cairns! It’s still on the bucket list for Bali!
Linda says
Wow there’s so much to do!!! I’m going to Bali in 2 weeks and couldn’t be more excited!
Allison Smith says
I love Bali! I’m heading back in August and can’t wait.
you.theworld.wandering says
Such a great list!! I am in the middle of writing mine and nothing on yours is the same as mine, except for a treehouse stay! It just shows how versatile Bali really is!! I climbed Mt Batur – Agung is too much of a challenge! And the Vagina steam – a total new concept to me! ha ha
you.theworld.wandering
neha says
This is a very interesting and unique list of things to do in Bali. I started reading with some other expectation but later liked what I found. So bookmarked it. Didn’t know about the coffee stuff..I will think twice before drinking coffee now
Allison Smith says
So much to do in Bali Neha. Hope you get to try some on your next visit!
Arnav Mathur says
Never knew Bali had so many things to do. BTW you missed out mentioning Scuba Diving. The green school and driving through a tree looks interesting. Would definitely try out the Bali Volcano hike apart from staying in a tree house and doing some marine conservation.
Allison Smith says
Yes scuba is possible in Bali and that will make my next list which will feature 100 more. I just didn’t think it was ‘unexpected’ but thanks for the feedback!
Nicole Anderson says
Well this list certainly proves there is a lot more to Bali than most potential tourists might give credit for. That is some incredible research and you really have me wondering which ones to do first. Not sure I am up to doing all of them though! Great list and thanks for taking the time to research and put this together.
Allison Smith says
Thanks Nicole. I’m working on a 100+ list coming soon ?
Bali Volcano Trekking says
Very interesting and so amazing, I was really stunned to read it, thank you
stephanie says
Great article! There are some interesting things on there.
Myabe enxt time I visit Bali I give one or two a try 🙂
x
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
You’ll have to let me know which ones you try Stephanie!
James Wilson says
Really nice blog and great information here. Thank you for sharing this blog.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks so much James. I just got back from Bali for the sixth time and will be penning an epic 100+ things to do post soon ?
Global Girl Travels says
Oh Bali, this post makes me re-live all of those fun times we had there too! The thought of destination dentistry scares me though. All the others on your list I’d love to give a try, especially the cooking classes. And oh, the thing about steaming your vagina, not to sure about that one too! LOL
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The dentist was not scary at all lol. My crown is still going strong ?
Gemma says
I love this list, there are some really off beat ideas that you wouldn’t think to do in Bali. I really want to try making my own perfume, sounds like a great experience.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I love my signature perfumes … Still wearing them ?
Jackie says
These are definitely the most unexpected things to do in Bali! I’ve been two Bali twice, most recently for three weeks, and I never considered doing half of these things! Such a good post!
The Travel Ninjas says
Mixing with locals is always our favorite experience. And the people on Bali are some of the warmest we’ve ever met. We’ve done other cooking classes but we’d love to try Traveling Spoon next time on Bali. We’ve lots of good things about them.
Jean Bean says
Who would’ve thought there was so much to see and do in Bali past Kuta. I have to admit I’ve avoided Bali due to how many poorly behaved Australians go there. But with so much fun stuff maybe I need to reconsider
Leah | KidBucketList says
I’m glad I stumbled across this post! Usually Bali is all about the beaches and party zones. It you e shown it’s potential as something more! Love this post
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I’ll be back in March Leah to rock some more off my list ?
Leah | KidBucketList says
I’ll have the follow that too! I’m keen to actually look at Bali as a destination now.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Currently looking at doing a self drive (although that will be The Hubs’ job lol) submarine in Sanur. Sounds like a lot of fun! This list will no doubt be updated after March lol
Katherine says
What an original list! I hadn’t even heard of 95% of the things on this list. The only I did was hiking up a volcano (Mt. Batur) and highly recommend it! If you ever get the chance to do so on a future trip it is totally worth it, especially at sunrise.
Vyjay says
You have given a total makeover to Bali! What a refreshingly different perspective, and so many unique activities in this lovely land. Thanks for throwing the light on these.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I’m heading back in March so Ai may just find some more ?
neha says
Loved the list and already bookmarked for my next bali trip
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Awesome Neha. Enjoy!
Jesper, The Biveros Effect says
Sounds like there are a lot of interesting things to do on that island 🙂
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Absolutely Jesper! I will be back in Bali in March to tick a few more off my list.
Chloe says
Wow! That tree house hotel looks incredible! Would love to stay in a place like this!! And it made me sad about the coffee and animals. I’m glad you mentioned this so it brings some light to the problem. The more aware we are, the better to help fight against this.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I’m looking into the treehouse for March ?
Chantal says
BRILLIANT LIST!!! Must transfer some to my Bucket List! Love your work!!!!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Chantel ?
Melissa says
I honestly thought Bali was pure beaches but there’s so much to do! I especially want to create my own perfume and jewelry and adopt a turtle. Thanks for giving me so much ideas, I hope my family and I could visit Bali someday <3
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I loved both the classes. I hope you why there too Melissa ?
Tina von S says
Okay, okay. I am so going there and doing most of the stuff in here. Someday I will make it there and check all fo these amazing stuff. The treehouse looks absolutely fun! Just have to find someone that will go with me 🙂
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Sounds like a plan Tina ?
Iris says
That looks like heaven on earth! I’ll keep this in mind if I get to go one day, which I will surely do. Thanks!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Awesome Iris!
sabine says
Great to stand up against animal cruelty. That’s so sad and it’s important. I love that you blog about it. Steam your vajayay? Like for real? hahaha, I don’t know if that would be on my wishlist but it’s so much fun to read about it.
lots of love,
Sabine
www.sofarsosabine.com
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Sabine! I may just give the steaming a go next time lol We shall see ?
Bernadette Angelie Pangilinan says
Lol, you really got to experience to farm seaweed yourself? I am obsessed with Nori and would do anything to find out how they are farmed!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Lol Bernadette. No that one is on my list for next time. ?
Amber says
Such a good list! I saw the vagina steaming advertised at one of the massage parlours I visited….I’m just not that adventurous though haha.
I think next time I go I’ll get a leather jacket made, it sounds like a great, affordable way to get one.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Defiantly get the jacket Amber! Quality varies so ask the people coming out with items their thoughts as a rule of thumb.
Faith says
I really need to get out more and explore! This place looks like they have it all! I wouldn’t know where to start. Great list 🙂
xx
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Lots of things to do Faith. I love SE Asia ?
Jean says
You had me at steam your vagina!!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I know right! Lol. Never say never ?
Melinda says
Ha ha- steaming my vagina sounds intriguing but I might sick with having dinner with a local and getting the low down from them first ?? Never been to Bali- had no idea there was so much to do! Great list.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Yeah it does sound a little strange but so common with the locals. Bali has lots to offer ?
Freelancer Rene says
that is a lot to do, and it must be really fun there. I like jamming and recording with a band.. and of course the food! I think adopting a turtle would be fun too, but aren’t they endangered species? or are there a lot of turtles in Indonesia?
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
We always have lots of fun when we go! You have to release the turtle you adopt Rene ?
Lisa says
I was definitely not expecting any of those things! This post is very aptly named. I’d love to try my hand at jewelry making. And thank you for the heads up about the coffee. I’m not a coffee person myself, but I otherwise may have sampled it without knowing the repercussions.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The jewellery making was great Lisa. I would definitely go back and try my hand at a ring ?
Maria says
Wow! I did not expect that. There’s just a lot that you can do there. This list makes me so excited and hyped to go to Bali!! And to think you had 5 days to do all these, it’s just amazing.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I didn’t manage to fit them all in Maria. Some are on the list for next time ?
Berlin says
So many things to do and definitely worth remembering. The vagina thing is also being offered in an esteemed health center when i visited for a blog review. They told us there are many customers asking for this kind of service especially those flying for work in Japan. And yes, the doctor practicing that relayed to us that she learned the skill in Thailand.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It’s going global Berlin! I haven’t seen in in Sydney yet but I guess it is only a matter of time. Did you try it?
Carola says
This is definitely unexpected! I love that. Learning new things here. I loved the last about Cosmic dinner. It really looks awesome and I would enjoy going there a lot. Hard Rock hotel is nice as well. I went to a hard Rock restaurant yesterday. I always love it. The mara River safari lodge looks absolutely stunning. But I’m glad you’re mentioning animal welfare as well. If i’d go, i would make sure to look it up.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I had my heart set in going to Cosmic diner so was disappointed to miss out but I know I’ll catch it next time. I read mixed reviews in Mara so if I was thinking of visiting I would have to do a lot more research before making a call.
Laveena Sengar says
I love the listed things. Have you had an experience with all of these? I am sure it would have been amazing. I am loving forward to a trip to Bali 🙂
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
No Laveena I haven’t tried them all just the first few. I still have a few more to tick off!
Mommy Queenelizabeth says
I didn’t know there could be a lot of things to do at Bali in 5 days? I was curious about the steam your vagina kind of thing. How was that and what benefits do i get from it? I was thinking of trying it when i visit Bali with my girl friends. Hahaha! Girl thing right?! Love the locket on the bridge too and the leather jacket is perfect for an #ootd!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
There is sooooo much to do in Bali. That’s why I keep going back! I skipped the vagina steaming this time but never say never right!
Danielle says
I love a good themed restaurant, so would have to pay a visit to Frankensteins! Also – vagina steaming?? That sounds so weird that I really want to try it! haha!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Frank’s was awesome. I love anywhere that lets me dance to a live band with a drink in hand ? As for the vagina steaming … The jury is still out on that one!
Eva Casey says
Great list! I am going to Bali for the first time on a work retreat in November, and was a little apprehensive because I’ve heard SO many things about this part of the world. I felt like there was nothing left to discover. But this list makes me think that I will find plenty offbeat things to keep me interested 😀 Thanks!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Awesome Eva you will have to let me know what you end up trying out.
Jessica says
I enjoy reading this. First is the dental chair by the beach. Lol. Your expressions are witty that makes me more encourage to try all. Yes, even the steam your vagina. But my priority is the tree house. That’s my dream! 🙂
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Awww thanks Jessiac. You will have to let me know how the vagina steaming turns out ?
Miranda says
THANK YOU! #6. I hate that they keep those poor critters in cages. I tried to avoid those stupid coffee places but they always make you stop there when doing other activities. I would love to spend some time at that green school! I would also be interested in the rice/seaweed harvesting. I wonder if there is a workaway volunteer program for longer periods. Great list!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The thing is Miranda most people that just pop in for a coffee will have no idea what goes on behind the scenes. Hoping to raise a little awareness and well as giving some ideas for unique things to do.
Maggie says
Such a great list, filled with your not so typical things. I love cooking classes, just did one in Thailand and it was the highlight of the trip. The treehouse looks amazing, such a unique place to stay!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Maggie! The Hubs is not a massive fan of French food so he will take a little bit of convincing to get along to this one but we also did one in Thailand (on Koh Phi Phi) and Mexico (Cozumel) which we loved!
Maja says
Awesome list, Allison! Some are really intriguing – I would love to make my own perfume and spend the day with locals! But steaming your vagina, that’s just hilarious!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I know!!!!!! When I saw it I knew I had to include it lol. Maybe one day ….
Noemi of Pinay Flying High says
These are really unique things to do in Bali, I’ve never realized some of these can be done there. Not sure what my opinion is about on number 13 though. You’ll let me know your thoughts? :p
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Haha Noemi. I will if I give it a try next time!
Punita Malhotra says
That is a really offbeat list! Wow! Did you try all of those? Love the tree house and the drive-through tree.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
No Punita I only got through the first six but I hope to try a few more next visit ?
Gina says
I really loved reading this! There are so many interesting and awesome things to do in Bali! I didn’t know you could tailor make clothes. I would especially love to make a custom biker jacket because that’s my go to piece in the Autumn and early winter! I also think it would be great to custom make some jewelry!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Gina! I will be visiting Joey again in March. I’m thinking something in red this time!
ellis veen says
I loved this article. Thank you for sharing these things. I will remember some if i go to bali.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks so much Ellis. I will try to check off a few more when I go back in March ?
ROBERT LEE says
It’s such a joy to read this post because truly, I find many of the 23 things to do fascinating, except for one that is kinda … strange. Steaming vagina? LOL. What on earth is that supposed to do? Anyway, what did resonate with me was treating the animals right. Civet cat are abused and no matter how companies or merchants tell you the coffee was sourced from the wild, most are NOT true. I thought making your own perfume is as cool as making your own silver… but that is nothing compared to being assimilated with what the locals do such as farming or picking seaweeds. Those are more the culture and experience rather than something material that could be forgotten.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Robert! I think many of these would be missed by the average Bali tourist. Hopefully I have inspired some to try something new ?
Joy Sheehan says
This list was EPIC! As a wildlife biologist, I especially loved that you highlighted that bit about the civet mistreatment. There are SO. MANY. alternative and unique ideas here — I love it!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks so much Joy. Glad you enjoyed it ?
Soraya says
These are all fantastic suggestions, and definitely unexpected things to do in Bali. Most of these I didn’t even know you could do there! The jewellery making sounds like so much fun. I’ll have to check it out when I am in Bali next. And staying in a Tree House I reckon would be a really fun experience. I’ve heard of Traveling Spoon – I have been meaning to try out an experience with them – thanks for the reminder. Great post Allison!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
The tree house is on my list for my next visit in March ?
Scarlett says
I love this because all of the options are so unique! I literally never considered any of these when I went to Bali, really interesting selection thanks :).
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Scarlett! Most people don’t and if I hadn’t purposefully sought out something different Ai could have easily have missed them.
Jaye Shields says
I would love to stay in a tree house. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that you get your vowel renewal in the gem 😉 So cool! By the way, I loooooove your Blog Banner!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks so much Jaye ? We are heading back in Match with by youngest son and his GF and I’m hoping we can make the tree house happen!