Travel in Bali – Beyond the Beaches
Travel in Bali – Beyond the Beaches: Temples, Trails, & Tropical Vibes
I have wanted to travel in Bali ever since I read Eat Pray Love. But when we were planning our Round-the-World adventure, so many people told us to skip it because of all the trash on the beaches. I’m glad we ignored that advice and gave Bali a chance—because we really enjoyed it… except for the mugginess. Seriously, it felt like we were walking through a sauna 24/7 but we were there in March. I’ve heard that in May to August the humidity is lower, but it didn’t stop us from having an amazing time.
Over two adventure-packed weeks, we explored three incredible locations— the relatively unknown Candi Dasa and Lovina, as well as the arts and culture center of Ubud—each with its own unique charm, stunning views, a slower pace, and, of course, delicious food.
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Candi Dasa: Sunsets & Lost Temples
Our Bali journey kicked off in the peaceful seaside town of Candi Dasa. Our cozy bungalow at Bali Seascape Beach Hotel was right next to the pool, with the ocean just beyond. At just $32 a night, it was a steal—and honestly, we’d pay that just for the nightly sunset show from our patio.
We attempted a hike to a hidden temple, but despite getting directions from multiple locals (none of which matched), we never quite found it. However, we did wander through a beautiful bamboo alley, spot countless Canang Sari offerings (tiny, intricate baskets of flowers and treats left for the gods), and work up an appetite for some of the best Soto Ayam (chicken noodle soup) that was a local staple.
Lovina: Dolphins, Snorkeling & A Dog Named Rocko
Next, we road-tripped to Lovina on Bali’s north coast, stopping along the way to admire breathtaking terraced rice fields. Our stay at Lilin Beach Hotel was made extra special by Rocko, the hotel’s friendly dog who decided we were his new best friends (or at least worthy of guarding at night). Travel around Bali with a local guide is highly recommended.
Lovina’s black sand beaches were the perfect launch point for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs. But the highlight? Dolphin watching at sunrise. Seeing these playful creatures leaping through the waves was pure magic.
Ubud: Monkeys, Waterfalls & Poo Coffee
Ubud is Bali’s jungle paradise, where we hiked through lush greenery, cooled off under waterfalls, and encountered some seriously mischievous monkeys. At the Ubud Monkey Forest, we watched one swipe a baby’s bottle and scamper up a tree while the poor kid wailed (It was kinda funny… and the monkey had a slight resemblance to Steve.)
Pura Tirta Empul Temple offered a moment of peace, where we donned sarongs and watched locals participate in a centuries-old purification ritual. Then, there was the “unique” experience of trying Luwak coffee—made from beans that have been, well… digested and pooped out by a jungle cat-like creature. Exotic? Sure. Did it taste any different? Not really. But hey, when in Bali!
Beach Days & Naughty Monkeys
Before continuing our adventures in Australia, we soaked up the sun on the beaches near Kuta and visited Uluwatu Temple, which sits dramatically perched on a cliff. The views? Stunning. The monkeys? Little thieves. If you ever visit, hold on to your sunglasses unless you want to negotiate a hostage trade with a banana.
Bali wasn’t all paradise—a few of the beaches were littered with trash, especially near Kuta. But locals are tackling the issue with an initiative where people earn rice in exchange for bags of collected trash and teaching younger generations to protect the environment.
Adventures in Bali: Dinner on the Beach
For our last night, we enjoyed a sunset dinner on the sand, reflecting on our time in Bali. From serene sunrises to mischievous monkeys and some of the best food we’ve ever had, this island stole our hearts. We loved our travels in and around Bali, we’ll be back—with friends next time!
Stay tuned for more adventures from the Traveling Twosome, Steve & Jana!
