Most Instagrammable Spots In Bali To Get Those Postcard-Perfect Shots
Most Instagrammable Spots In Bali To Get Those Postcard-Perfect Shots
With its sun-drenched beaches, cascading waterfalls, terraced rice paddies, and towering volcanoes, Bali offers an endless reel of natural beauty that feels almost too good to be true!
But beyond its natural allure, Bali shines through its deeply rooted cultural traditions. Ancient temples perched on cliffs, centuries-old ceremonies, and intricately carved shrines tell stories of devotion and heritage. Some of these sacred spots have even been recognised for their historical significance. In case you’re planning a trip to Bali, get ready to jazz up your feed!
Uncover Bali’s most Insta-worthy gems - no filters needed! And before you jet off, breeze through your Indonesia eVisa application with Atlys!
In this article, I’ll take you through some of the most Instagrammable spots in Bali - places where the scenery speaks for itself and your photos are bound to stand out.
Lempuyang Temple (The Gates of Heaven)
Location:
Lempuyang Temple is located on the eastern side of Bali, near the village of Karangasem, approximately a 2.5–3-hour drive from Ubud or Seminyak, depending on traffic.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
I’m sure you must have seen hundreds of photos of this place! One of Bali’s most iconic spiritual sites, Pura Lempuyang Luhur, is often referred to as “The Gates of Heaven” for good reason. The temple’s split gate, known as candi bentar, perfectly frames Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest and most sacred volcano. With the mountain often veiled in soft morning mist, the view feels nothing short of celestial.
What makes this site especially famous is the mirror-like effect seen in many Instagram photos. This effect is achieved by a simple photography trick: a piece of glass placed under a camera lens mimics a reflective water surface. While the effect is artificial, the experience of standing between the gates and soaking in the sacred silence is very real.
Best Time to Visit:
Early morning (6:00 AM—8:00 AM) is ideal to avoid heavy crowds and capture Mount Agung before clouds obscure it.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Try to visit during the dry season (May to October) for clearer skies.
How to Get There:
The temple is best reached by private car or scooter. From Ubud or Canggu, hire a driver for a full-day trip, especially if you plan to combine your visit with nearby attractions like Tirta Gangga or Taman Ujung Water Palace.
If you're driving yourself, be prepared for a steep uphill ride. The temple is one of a series up Mount Lempuyang, with the Gates of Heaven being the first and most accessible.
Entrance & Photography:
Entry fee: Approx. IDR 55,000 per person (includes sarong rental).
Temple staff manage photography, and visitors often need to queue. Wait times can range from 15 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the time of day.
You’ll be allowed a few poses — choose wisely!
Pro Tip: While the Gates of Heaven photo is popular, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the other six temples that make up the Lempuyang complex. The climb is steep (over 1,700 steps), but the spiritual calm and panoramic views along the way are worth the effort. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and embrace the slower pace.
Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida
Location:
Located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida, an island off the southeast coast of Bali. It’s accessible via a 40-minute fast boat ride from Sanur Harbour, followed by a 45-minute drive from the Toya Pakeh port.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
If there’s one view that defines Bali’s coastal drama, it’s the jaw-dropping cliffside of Kelingking Beach. The limestone ridge juts out into the Indian Ocean in a shape that has famously earned it the nickname “T-Rex Bay” — a natural formation resembling the head and spine of a giant dinosaur. Below lies a hidden crescent of powdery white sand embraced by turquoise waves crashing into the shore.
This spot is a photographer’s dream. Whether you're capturing the curve of the cliffs from above or sending a drone to sweep over the sea, the scale and contrast here are nothing short of epic. The untouched wildness of the landscape makes it one of the most photographed beaches in Indonesia — and perhaps the world.
Best Time to Visit:
Early morning (before 9:00 AM) is best to beat both the heat and the crowds.
The lighting around sunset also offers incredible golden hues, though descending to the beach afterwards isn’t advised due to the fading light.
Dry season (April to October) ensures safer trekking and clearer skies.
How to Get There:
Take a fast boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida (several operators run daily boats).
Once on the island, hire a scooter or a private driver. The roads are rough and steep, especially the last stretch leading to the viewpoint, so caution is essential.
It's a short walk from the parking area to the famous viewpoint.
Beach Access:
For the adventurous, a narrow, steep path down the cliff to the beach is secured by bamboo railings. The hike can take 30–45 minutes and is physically demanding.
Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and crashing waves, but the view from the sand is worth the trek.
Pro Tip: Wear good hiking shoes if you plan to descend to the beach, and bring plenty of water. The midday sun can be intense with little shade. If you're only visiting the viewpoint, a wide-angle lens or drone will help you capture the full scale of the cliffs. For an even more cinematic view, head slightly off the main trail where fewer tourists gather — the angle there captures both the spine of the cliff and the beach below.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Ubud
Location:
Situated about 20 minutes north of Ubud, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are in central Bali's Gianyar Regency. They are easily accessible as a short day trip or even a morning outing from Ubud town.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
With sweeping layers of emerald-green paddies carved into the hillside, Tegalalang Rice Terraces showcase Bali’s ancient subak irrigation system — a UNESCO-recognised cultural tradition. The undulating terraces stretch across the valley like a patchwork quilt of green, curving along the contours of the land in mesmerising patterns.
What makes Tegalalang truly photogenic is not just the rice fields themselves, but the way the light plays off them, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Tall coconut palms dot the landscape, framing the terraces like nature’s own picture frame. It's a painterly scene brought to life, where every corner seems designed for a perfect shot.
Best Time to Visit:
Early morning (6:30 AM – 9:00 AM) for the softest light, fewer people, and cooler weather.
Late afternoon is also beautiful, especially with the golden hour glow, though crowds begin to gather.
The terraces are lushest during the growing season, typically between March to June and October and December.
How to Get There:
From Ubud, it’s an easy 15–20-minute scooter ride or taxi drive north along Jalan Raya Tegalalang.
If you're coming from Seminyak or Canggu, expect a 1.5–2-hour drive, so plan it as part of a full-day Ubud trip.
Entry Fee & Photography:
There is a small entrance fee of around IDR 15,000–20,000, and optional donations to farmers are made when you explore the fields further.
Several viewpoints, cafes, and swings are perched along the ridges for the perfect vantage point. Some charge a small fee for photo access.
Pro Tip: Skip the main photo platform and walk down into the fields — you’ll find quieter, more authentic corners and local farmers going about their day. For a truly memorable experience, grab a coffee at Tis Cafe or Alas Harum, which both overlook the terraces and offer panoramic views. And yes, this is where you’ll find the famous Bali swing — a high-flying photo op with the lush valley as your backdrop.
The Bali Swings (Ubud and Beyond)
Location:
While the original and most famous swing is just outside Ubud at Bali Swing in Bongkasa, you’ll find similar jungle swings in multiple locations around central and northern Bali — including Tegallalang, Wanagiri Hidden Hills, Blangsinga Waterfall, and Alas Harum.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
Few travel photos scream “Bali” quite like the iconic jungle swing shot — soaring high above lush green valleys, rice terraces, or tropical forests, often with your dress billowing in the breeze. These swings, suspended from tall palm trees or custom-built towers, offer a dramatic perspective of Bali’s landscape that combines both thrill and visual impact.
The composition makes the Bali swings so photogenic: deep green backdrops, vibrant clothing (especially flowing maxi dresses), and the perfect symmetry of ropes framing your silhouette. That mix of adrenaline and dreaminess keeps the swings trending across Instagram feeds and travel reels.
Best Time to Visit:
Morning hours (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) for softer light and fewer people, especially if you want uninterrupted photos.
The lighting is best during golden hour (4:00 PM – 5:30 PM), but it can get busy with photo sessions.
Visit during the dry season (May to October) for clear skies and ideal flying conditions.
How to Get There:
The original Bali Swing is about a 30-minute drive from Ubud, and around 1.5 hours from Seminyak or Canggu.
Other popular swings like those at Alas Harum and Zen Hideaway are also near Ubud and are part of larger experiences, including coffee tastings or ziplining.
Entry & Experience:
Prices vary depending on the location. The Bali Swing in Bongkasa offers packages starting from IDR 400,000, which include unlimited swings, photo spots, and lunch.
Other venues like Alas Harum or Tegalalang Swings offer cheaper, per-swing pricing, often starting around IDR 100,000–150,000.
Most swings have safety harnesses and professional staff on-site.
Pro Tip: Wear a long, flowy dress in a bold colour — it creates stunning movement and contrast against the green landscape. Many swing operators provide dress rentals on-site if you didn’t bring one. For the best shot, ask your photographer to take a burst series so you can choose the perfect moment mid-air.
And if you're not a fan of heights, many places also offer “photo swings” closer to the ground for a similar visual without the drop.
Molenteng Tree House (Rumah Pohon Molenteng), Nusa Penida
Location:
Perched dramatically on a cliffside in the Thousand Islands (Pulau Seribu) viewpoint area on the eastern coast of Nusa Penida, this tree house is about a 1-hour drive from the Toya Pakeh harbour, following a boat transfer from mainland Bali.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
Suspended on wooden stilts above the jagged cliffs and surrounded by surreal seascapes, the Molenteng Tree House is one of Bali’s most visually striking accommodations. With panoramic views of turquoise waters, steep rock formations, lush tropical greenery, and the famed Raja Lima (Five Islands) below, it’s a scene that feels straight out of a fantasy film.
From the balcony of the tree house, you can capture one of the most iconic shots on Nusa Penida — a rustic wooden ladder leading up to the cabin, framed by sweeping ocean vistas and a moody sky. It's not just a photo spot; it's an immersive way to experience Bali’s wild side, right from the edge of the world.
Best Time to Visit:
Early morning (6:30 AM—8:30 AM) is ideal for catching the sunrise and having the area mostly to yourself.
Overnight stays offer the chance to enjoy golden hour and quiet solitude after day-trippers leave.
Visit during the dry season (April to October) for clearer views and comfortable nights.
How to Get There:
Take a fast boat from Sanur Harbour to Nusa Penida.
From the port, hire a private driver or rent a scooter to reach the Atuh Beach area, where the tree house is located.
A steep but well-maintained stair path leads down to the tree house area from the parking lot. If staying overnight, wear good shoes and pack light.
Staying There:
While many visitors come just for photos, you can book the tree house for a night via select booking platforms.
The interior is basic but charming, with a fan, bedding, and solar lighting.
The host is known for his warm hospitality and may prepare home-cooked Indonesian meals if requested in advance.
Pro Tip: Even if you're not staying overnight, you can pay a small fee (around IDR 75,000) to access the viewpoint and take photos on the ladder leading to the tree house. Arrive early to avoid lines, and bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the landscape.
For an extra adventure, combine your visit with nearby Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach, both within walking distance.
Sekumpul Waterfall, North Bali
Location:
Tucked away in the misty highlands of Buleleng Regency, Sekumpul Waterfall lies in North Bali, near the village of Sekumpul, about a 2.5–3 hour drive from Ubud or southern Bali (Canggu/Seminyak).
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
Often hailed as Bali’s most beautiful waterfall, Sekumpul is a cluster of seven cascades, all thundering down from the cliffs into a lush, jungle-shrouded ravine. The sheer scale of the falls — some towering up to 80 meters — creates a dramatic scene straight out of a fantasy film.
What makes Sekumpul particularly captivating for photography is the layered composition: towering streams of water, thick tropical foliage, moss-covered rocks, and mist rising from the plunge pool below. Whether you're standing at the panoramic viewpoint above or wading through the river below, every angle offers a jaw-dropping shot. It’s a raw, unfiltered corner of Bali that rewards those willing to go off the beaten track.
Best Time to Visit:
Morning (8:00 AM—10:00 AM) offers softer light, fewer crowds, and a good chance to catch the sunlight piercing through the mist.
It is best viewed during or just after the wet season (December to April) when the waterfalls are at their fullest, though the trails can be slippery.
Dry season (May to October) offers easier hiking conditions and clearer skies.
How to Get There:
Drive from Ubud or Lovina via Singaraja. Due to the long journey, hiring a private driver is recommended for comfort and navigation.
After arriving at the Sekumpul village entrance, you’ll need to purchase a guide package. Trekking is now only allowed with local guides to ensure safety and support the community.
The hike to the base takes 30–45 minutes and involves steep steps, bamboo bridges, and river crossings.
Entry & Trekking Packages:
There are generally three levels of access:
Viewpoint only (~IDR 20,000)
Medium trek (viewpoint + one waterfall)
The full trek (Sekumpul + Hidden/ Fiji waterfalls) ranges from IDR 125,000 to 200,000, and includes a local guide.
Pro Tip: Wear proper water shoes or sturdy sandals — you’ll cross streams and navigate wet rocks. Bring a waterproof bag for your gear, and don’t forget a microfiber towel. The top viewpoint offers a stunning wide-angle shot, but the real magic is at the base, where you can photograph the misty force of the falls up close. Want fewer tourists in your frame? Aim for a weekday morning during shoulder season.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Bedugul
Location:
Located in the mountain town of Bedugul, central Bali, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple sits on the western shore of Lake Beratan. It is about a two-hour drive from Ubud or Canggu, nestled in the cooler highlands of the Tabanan Regency.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
Serenely floating on calm waters with a mist-shrouded mountain backdrop, Ulun Danu Beratan looks like it stepped out of a Balinese watercolour painting. This iconic Hindu water temple, dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers, is one of Bali’s most revered spiritual sites — and undoubtedly one of its most photogenic.
This temple stands out visually because of its setting: the eleven-tiered Meru shrine appears to drift on the lake, especially when water levels rise, creating a dreamy reflection. Early morning fog, placid waters, and blooming gardens around the temple compound add layers of texture and colour to your photos. Whether captured at sunrise, on a misty day, or in golden afternoon light, it’s a showstopper.
Best Time to Visit:
Early morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) is ideal for soft light, reflection shots, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Dry season (May to October) offers clearer skies, but even a bit of mist in the rainy season (November to April) can add to the temple’s ethereal quality.
Avoid mid-day weekends, when tour buses often crowd the area.
How to Get There:
Hire a private driver or take a guided day trip from Ubud, Canggu, or Seminyak.
The temple is part of the scenic route to North Bali, making it a great stop if you’re headed to Munduk, Lovina, or Sekumpul Waterfall.
Entry Fee & Photography:
Entry costs around IDR 75,000 per person.
Drones are permitted only with special permission, but handheld cameras and smartphones work beautifully with the natural light and the still lake.
Traditional Balinese structures, ornate gates, and flower-filled gardens offer multiple backdrops beyond the main floating shrine.
Pro Tip: Arrive right at opening time (around 7 AM) to capture the mirror-like reflections on Lake Beratan before the breeze picks up. Bring a jacket, because Bedugul’s highland climate is much cooler than southern Bali. For a unique shot, rent a swan boat or canoe to get a different angle of the temple from the water — a peaceful and less crowded perspective.
Campuhan Ridge Walk, Ubud
Location:
The Campuhan Ridge Walk begins near the Warwick Ibah Villas in central Ubud and winds its way through a series of gentle hills and valleys, just a short 5–10 minute walk from Ubud’s main street. It’s one of the most accessible nature trails in Bali.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
This scenic ridgetop trail is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful escape from Ubud’s hustle while still capturing postcard-worthy images. Think sun-dappled paths, tall waving grasses, lone palm trees, and endless views of jungle-covered hills on both sides — all of it glowing under the soft hues of dawn.
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is also one of the best hiking trails in Bali for beginners — not too strenuous, but incredibly rewarding in terms of visuals. It’s ideal for solo travellers chasing serenity, couples looking for dreamy photo ops, or wellness seekers embracing nature.
This spot shines at sunrise, when the light is golden and diffused, creating silhouettes and dramatic shadows perfect for aesthetic, minimalist shots. Whether you’re shooting a wide landscape, a walking-away frame, or an outfit shot with nature as your backdrop, Campuhan delivers subtle magic.
Best Time to Visit:
Sunrise (6:00 AM – 7:30 AM) is the golden hour for both lighting and solitude. You’ll often have the trail to yourself.
Avoid midday when the sun is harsh and the ridge gets hot.
It is best visited in the dry season (May to October) when the path is dry and the fields are lush and green.
How to Get There:
From central Ubud, head towards the Warwick Ibah Hotel, where signs mark the start of the trail.
No transportation needed — simply walk from Ubud town centre and enter through the small pathway that descends from the main road.
The full trail is about 2 km one way and ends in the village of Bangkiang Sidem, dotted with cafes and art shops.
Entry & Essentials:
Free entrance (no ticket or guide needed).
The trail is well-paved and relatively flat, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
Several rest spots and benches are located along the way if you want to pause for photos or reflection.
Pro Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens or use panoramic mode to capture the sweeping views across both sides of the ridge. Wear breathable, light clothing — the sun rises fast, and there’s limited shade. For a reward after your walk, stop by Karsa Café at the end of the trail for a fresh juice with a view over lotus ponds and rice paddies.
Handara Gate, Bedugul
Location:
Nestled in Bedugul, North Bali's cool highlands, Handara Gate is at the entrance of Handara Golf & Resort. It's an easy stop on the way to or from Lake Beratan and Ulun Danu Temple, about a 2.5-hour drive from Ubud or Seminyak.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
If there’s one place that perfectly reflects the spiritual elegance and cultural richness of Bali, it’s Handara Gate. Rising dramatically against a backdrop of misty mountains and lush forested hills, this traditional Balinese split gate looks like something out of a fantasy film.
The intricately carved stone pillars, symmetrically framing a cobbled road leading into the distance, create a sense of walking through a portal into another realm. Whether you capture it in the early morning mist or under clear blue skies, it’s one of the most photogenic architectural landmarks on the island — and a favourite among photographers, honeymooners, and content creators alike.
Best Time to Visit:
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM for the best lighting, minimal crowds, and the possibility of capturing that magical morning fog.
The dry season (May to October) ensures clearer skies and vivid greens.
Weekday mornings are quieter than weekends, when visitors line up for photos.
How to Get There:
It is best reached by private car or scooter. You can include it as part of a North Bali day trip that covers Ulun Danu Beratan, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, and Wanagiri Hidden Hills.
Handara Gate is right off the main road, so it’s very accessible — no hike required.
Entry & Photography Details:
Photo fees range from IDR 30,000 to 50,000 per person.
Staff on site often help manage queues and can assist in taking your photo.
Drones are not allowed, but you won’t need one — the structure and surroundings are stunning enough from the ground.
Pro Tip: Arrive right after sunrise to enjoy a peaceful setting and natural mist that adds a mystical feel to your shot. For that perfect Instagram frame, stand centred on the path and shoot low to capture the full height of the gate and the mountains beyond. Light, breathable clothing in contrast colours (like white, red, or mustard) really pops in photos here.
Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu), South Bali
Location:
Perched dramatically on a 70-meter-high cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple lies at the southwestern tip of Bali in the Pecatu region, about a 45-minute drive from Seminyak or 30 minutes from the airport.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
With its striking clifftop setting, expansive ocean views, and golden hour magic, Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s most mesmerising cultural landmarks, and an absolute feast for the eyes (and your Instagram feed). This 11th-century sea temple, one of Bali’s six key spiritual pillars, offers a majestic mix of traditional Balinese architecture, steep coastal cliffs, and crashing turquoise waves far below.
At sunset, the scene turns truly cinematic. The temple silhouette against a fiery sky, paired with the thunderous sound of the sea and the distant echo of the Kecak fire dance, creates an atmosphere that feels timeless and sacred. Whether you're capturing wide-angle shots of the clifftop, intimate portraits with the ocean breeze, or snippets of the ritual dance, Uluwatu offers layers of visual richness.
Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:30 PM) for golden hour shots and the dramatic sunset.
The Kecak fire dance starts around 6:00 PM daily, set in an open-air arena with panoramic ocean views — a must-see (and must-capture) experience.
Visit during the dry season (May to October) for clear skies and vivid sunsets.
How to Get There:
Best accessed by private car or scooter, Uluwatu is well-connected to southern Bali hubs like Jimbaran, Seminyak, and Canggu.
For a full-day coastal itinerary, pair it with nearby attractions such as Padang Padang Beach, Bingin, or Suluban Cave.
Entry & Cultural Tips:
Temple entry fee: IDR 50,000 for adults. Sarongs and sashes are provided at the entrance for appropriate temple attire.
Respect temple etiquette: the inner sanctum is reserved for prayer, but you can explore the outer grounds and clifftop paths.
Watch out for mischievous monkeys near the entrance — keep sunglasses and loose items secured!
Pro Tip: Arrive at least an hour before sunset to explore the grounds, find your ideal photo spot, and secure a seat for the Kecak dance performance. For a signature shot, frame the cliff edge with the temple in the corner and the vast ocean stretching into the horizon. A wide lens or smartphone panorama works wonders here.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Bangli
Location:
Tucked away in a hidden canyon near the village of Tembuku in Bangli Regency, Tukad Cepung Waterfall is about a 1.5-hour drive from Ubud and around 2 hours from Seminyak or Canggu. It’s an inland adventure, perfect for a day trip to Bali’s less-trodden interior.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
Cascading through a narrow slot canyon, the waterfall flows gently between towering rock walls, with shafts of sunlight piercing through the cave ceiling. When the timing is right, these light rays create a heavenly glow around the falling water, making it one of the most ethereal and photogenic waterfalls in Bali.
This magical interplay of light, water, and stone creates surreal photo opportunities that resemble scenes from a fantasy film. Whether you're capturing the beams at just the right moment or standing in awe beneath the roaring fall, Tukad Cepung delivers an unforgettable visual.
Best Time to Visit:
8:00 AM – 10:30 AM to catch the morning sunrays filtering through the canyon — the light show is the highlight here.
Visit during the dry season (May to October) for safer trekking conditions and clearer light. Avoid visiting during or after heavy rain due to slippery trails and rising water levels.
How to Get There:
Hire a private driver or rent a scooter. From Ubud, take the scenic route via Bangli, passing rice fields and traditional villages.
From the parking lot, it’s a 15–20-minute trek down steep stairs and through a shallow riverbed and rocky path. Wear grippy footwear.
Entry & Essentials:
Entrance fee: around IDR 20,000–30,000 per person.
There are basic facilities like toilets and small warungs near the parking area.
Bring a waterproof bag or dry pouch for electronics, and wear clothes that you are comfortable getting wet in.
Pro Tip:
For that iconic Instagram shot, stand just in front of the waterfall, backlit by the sunbeams slicing through the cave. Use portrait mode or a wide-angle lens to exaggerate the height of the canyon walls and create dramatic light effects. Try visiting on a weekday morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
West Bali National Park (Taman Nasional Bali Barat)
Location:
Situated in the far northwest corner of the island, West Bali National Park stretches across Jembrana and Buleleng Regencies, encompassing land and marine areas. It’s roughly a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Ubud or Seminyak, making it ideal for travellers heading off the beaten path or staying in Pemuteran or near Menjangan Island.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
If you're craving a side of Bali that’s serene, untouched, and teeming with natural beauty, West Bali National Park delivers in spades. This protected area is home to dense tropical forests, savannah-like grasslands, mangroves, and pristine coral reefs — a striking contrast to the bustling southern beaches and rice terraces the island is known for.
Expect to photograph wild deer grazing in open meadows, black monkeys swinging between trees, and if you’re lucky, the rare and endangered Bali Starling, a snow-white bird found only here. The views from the hills overlook calm, turquoise bays and distant Java on clear days. And if you venture underwater, Menjangan Island, just offshore, offers some of the best snorkelling and diving in all of Bali.
It’s a nature lover’s paradise — and a visual goldmine for Instagram: think jungle trails, misty coastlines, vibrant wildlife, and reef-fringed islets.
Best Time to Visit:
April to October (dry season) for wildlife spotting, jungle hikes, and crystal-clear underwater visibility.
Early mornings are ideal for hiking and animal sightings, while midday to afternoon works best for snorkelling and diving at Menjangan.
Avoid visiting during the peak wet season (Dec–Feb), when trails may be slippery and marine visibility drops.
How to Get There:
Best reached by private car or driver, especially if coming from central or southern Bali.
Stay in nearby Pemuteran or Menjangan for easy access to park entrances and dive/snorkel operators.
You’ll need to arrange a park permit and a guide, which are required for most activities inside the park. These can be organised on arrival or through local tour companies.
Entry & Activities:
Entrance fee: approx. IDR 200,000 for foreign visitors (additional charges for guides, snorkelling, or boat trips).
Popular activities include jungle trekking, birdwatching, diving/snorkelling, mangrove walks, and wildlife photography.
Guided hikes range from short 2-hour treks to full-day expeditions.
Pro Tip: For a truly immersive photo experience, combine an early morning hike through the forest (great chance to spot deer, monkeys, and birds) with an afternoon snorkel around Menjangan Island’s coral gardens. Don’t forget a dry bag and underwater housing for your camera — the marine biodiversity here is stunning and well worth capturing.
Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida
Location:
Located on the southeastern tip of Nusa Penida, Diamond Beach is just a short walk from the famous Atuh Beach. To get there, take a 30–45 minute fast boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida, then drive about 45 minutes across the island’s rugged interior.
Why It’s Insta-Worthy:
Few places in Bali (or beyond) compare to the raw, dramatic beauty of Diamond Beach. Picture this: a staircase carved into a towering limestone cliff winds its way down to a pristine white sand cove, where turquoise waves crash against diamond-shaped karst rocks rising from the sea.
From the viewpoint above, the beach looks like a scene from a dream — untouched, wild, and impossibly blue. As you descend the steep path, every step offers a new angle for the perfect shot: sweeping coastal panoramas, cinematic cliff drops, and crystal-clear water that shimmers in the sun.
It’s no surprise that Diamond Beach has become a favourite for travel photographers and couples shooting pre-wedding photos. Whether you’re posing on the cliffside staircase or standing barefoot on the powdery sand with the ocean behind you, this place practically guarantees jaw-dropping content for your feed.
Best Time to Visit:
Morning (before 10:00 AM) for softer light, fewer crowds, and calmer waves.
The dry season (May to October) is best for clear skies and safe access to the beach.
Avoid the mid-day heat, especially when trekking down the cliffside staircase.
How to Get There:
Take a fast boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida (approx. 45 minutes), then hire a scooter or private driver to reach the beach.
It’s a 10–15-minute descent from the parking area down a narrow stone staircase, steep in sections and supported by ropes.
Entry & Essentials:
Entrance fee: approx. IDR 10,000–15,000 per person.
Bring good climbing shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water.
Basic warungs and photo spots are at the top, including the iconic swing and bird nest setups.
Pro Tip: Capture the staircase descent shot with the cliff curving behind you and the ocean in view — it’s one of Bali’s most iconic perspectives. If you're heading down to the sand, go early to enjoy it nearly empty, but keep an eye on tide times, as the waves can be powerful.
Picture-Perfect Bali Awaits!
Whether you’re capturing the golden light on a waterfall deep in the forest, the symmetry of temple gates, or the raw coastal beauty of Nusa Penida, Bali offers a dreamscape for every kind of traveller, and every kind of lens.
From serene sunrises over the rice terraces to cliffside sunsets that paint the sky in fiery hues, Bali promises moments that are as photogenic as they are unforgettable. So pack your camera (or just your phone), plan your route, and let the island's natural beauty and vibrant culture do the rest.
Because if there’s one thing certain, it’s this: a trip to Bali will seriously jazz up your ‘gram and leave you with memories that go far beyond the frame.