Bali is a province of Indonesia and the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands. East of Java and west of Lombok, the province includes the island of Bali and a few smaller offshore islands, notably Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan to the southeast. The provincial capital, Denpasar, is the most populous city in the Lesser Sunda Islands and the second-largest, after Makassar, in Eastern Indonesia. The upland town of Ubud in Greater Denpasar is considered Bali's cultural centre. The province is Indonesia's main tourist destination, with a significant rise in tourism since the 1980s.Tourism-related business makes up 80% of its economy.
Bali packs a lot into one small island— from breathtaking waterfalls like Sekumpul in the north to the white sand beaches of Nyang Nyang in the south. Whatever you’re seeking, you’ll probably find: surf-able waves in Batu Bolong, all-night clubs in Seminyak, luxury clifftop hotels in Nusa Dua, and spiritual refuges all around. Snap a pic at the Gateway to Heaven, cut through the jungle to the hidden Gunung Kawi Temple, and catch the sunset and a traditional fire dance at Uluwatu Temple. Just don’t miss the markets—hunt for handcrafted artwork and textiles at the Sukawati Art Market, or snack on street food staples like satay and bakso at the Sindhu Night Market. For even more tastes and things to do, check out our recs below.
