Solo Trip to Bali: Ultimate Guide to Enjoying the Island

Bali, Indonesia’s “Island of the Gods”, is not only a favourite destination for couples and groups but also a haven for solo travellers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquillity, cultural richness, or soulful rejuvenation, Bali offers the perfect blend of everything to make your solo trip extraordinary. In this comprehensive 3000-word guide, we will delve into every aspect of a solo Bali adventure — from where to stay, what to do, how to get around, safety tips, and how to truly embrace the solo travel experience.

Why Choose Bali for a Solo Trip?

Bali is one of the best solo travel destinations in the world — and for good reason. The island is incredibly welcoming, affordable, easy to navigate, and offers a strong community of travellers. Whether you want to explore lush rice terraces, majestic temples, yoga retreats, or vibrant beach clubs, Bali caters to every type of solo adventurer.

Key Reasons:

• Welcoming locals and traveller community
  
  
• Safe environment
  
  
• Affordable living and travel costs
  
  
• Rich spiritual and cultural heritage
  
  
• Breathtaking natural beauty
  

Best Time to Visit Bali as a Solo Traveller

Bali has two main seasons:

• Dry Season (April to October): Best for beach activities, sightseeing, and trekking.
  
  
• Wet Season (November to March): Fewer tourists, greener landscapes, lower prices — but more rainfall.
  
  

If you’re travelling solo for the first time, the dry season is ideal. You’ll find more people, more activities, and clearer skies, making it easier to meet fellow travellers and explore the island comfortably.

Where to Stay in Bali for Solo Travellers

1. Ubud – Cultural and Spiritual Heart

Best for: Yoga lovers, art enthusiasts, digital nomads
Highlights:

• Yoga Barn & meditation retreats
  
  
• Monkey Forest
  
  
• Rice terraces and traditional markets
  

2. Canggu – Hipster Surf Town

Best for: Young solo travellers, surfers, digital nomads
Highlights:

• Trendy cafes
  
  
• Surf beaches
  
  
• Coworking spaces like Dojo and Outpost
  

3. Seminyak – Beach Luxury and Nightlife

Best for: Solo travellers who want to mix beach time with upscale dining and clubs
Highlights:

• Potato Head Beach Club
  
  
• Designer boutiques
  
  
• Rooftop bars
  

4. Uluwatu – Cliffs and Quiet Solitude

Best for: Peaceful retreats, beach views, and surfing
Highlights:

• Uluwatu Temple
  
  
• Dreamland Beach
  
  
• Sunset clifftop cafes
  

5. Amed or Lovina – North Bali

Best for: Diving, snorkelling, and escaping the crowds
Highlights:

• Coral reefs and black sand beaches
  
  
• Dolphin tours
  
  
• Local culture
  

Top Activities for Solo Travellers in Bali

1. Join a Yoga or Meditation Retreat

Ubud is home to several globally renowned retreats. Spend a few days disconnecting from the noise and reconnecting with yourself.

2. Learn to Surf

Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta offer surf schools where you can meet other solo travellers. It’s a great way to have fun and build confidence in the water.

3. Explore Bali’s Temples

Bali is known for its spiritual sites. Must-visits include:

• Tanah Lot (sunset views)
  
  
• Besakih (mother temple)
  
  
• Tirta Empul (water purification)
  

4. Visit the Rice Terraces

Tegalalang and Jatiluwih rice terraces are UNESCO sites and perfect for peaceful treks and photo ops.

5. Try a Cooking Class

Bali’s food culture is rich and flavourful. Join a cooking class in Ubud or Seminyak to learn how to make dishes like Nasi Goreng and Satay.

6. Take a Balinese Dance or Art Class

Immerse yourself in the culture by taking a dance workshop or traditional wood carving class.

7. Go Island Hopping

Take day trips or overnight excursions to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and the Gili Islands. These islands are stunning and relatively easy to reach.

Getting Around Bali as a Solo Traveller

1. Scooter Rental

Most popular option for solo travellers. Make sure to have an international driver’s licence and wear a helmet.

2. Private Driver or Taxi

Ideal for longer journeys or if you’re not comfortable on a scooter. Services like Bluebird taxis and Grab (local ride-sharing app) are reliable.

3. Shuttle Services

Kura-Kura Bus and Perama Tours offer shuttles between popular towns.

4. Walking and Bicycles

In smaller towns like Ubud or Canggu, you can rent a bicycle or walk to explore local cafes and markets.

Budgeting Your Solo Bali Trip

Bali can be as budget-friendly or as luxurious as you choose. Here’s a rough breakdown:

Bali welcomes all types of travellers, whether you're pinching pennies or splurging on luxury. Here's a rough guide to help you estimate your daily expenses as a solo traveller in Bali, based on your travel style.

Accommodation
Your stay in Bali can range from simple dorms to five-star resorts.

• On a budget, expect to pay around $10–$25 per night for hostels or homestays.
• Mid-range travellers can enjoy boutique hotels or private villas for $30–$80 per night.
• If luxury is your goal, top-tier resorts will start at $100 and go well beyond.

Meals
Bali is full of local warungs and international eateries.

• Budget travellers can survive well on $2–$10 a day by eating local.
• A mid-range food budget of $15–$30 allows room for cafes and a few indulgences.
• Luxury diners may spend $40 or more on gourmet meals and beach club experiences.

Transport
Getting around Bali is easy with scooters or private drivers.

• Scooters cost around $5–$10 per day, ideal for solo adventurers.
• Mid-range travellers may prefer car rentals or daily drivers at $15–$30.
• Luxury travellers can hire private chauffeurs or use premium transport services for $50+ daily.

Activities
Whether you're into temples, surfing, yoga, or island hopping, Bali has it all.

• Budget activities like waterfalls, temples, and beaches can cost as little as $5–$20 per day.
• Mid-range travellers spending $30–$60 per day can enjoy curated tours, diving, or cultural shows.
• Luxury travellers spending $100+ can opt for helicopter tours, private excursions, or high-end spa days.

Is Bali Safe for Solo Travellers?

Yes, Bali is one of the safest destinations for solo travellers in Southeast Asia. However, always follow basic safety tips:

• Don’t leave valuables unattended
  
  
• Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas
  
  
• Use registered taxis or trusted ride-share apps
  
  
• Be cautious on scooters — traffic can be hectic
  
  
• Drink bottled or filtered water
  

The Balinese are friendly and helpful. If you need help, don’t hesitate to ask a local.

Also Check:- Bali Trip Cost for Couples: Budget & Luxury Options

How to Meet People on a Solo Trip to Bali

Bali has a thriving solo traveller community. You won’t be alone for long!

1. Stay in Hostels or Guesthouses

Hostels like Tribal Bali, Kos One Hostel (Canggu), or In Da Lodge (Ubud) are perfect for meeting other travellers.

2. Attend Social Events

From beach clean-ups to coworking meetups, yoga classes, and art jams — Bali is full of events.

3. Coworking Spaces

Great for digital nomads to work and socialise. Top ones include:

• Outpost (Ubud and Canggu)
  
  
• Dojo (Canggu)
  
  
• Hubud (Ubud)
  

4. Join Group Tours

Whether it’s trekking Mount Batur or snorkelling in Nusa Lembongan, group tours make it easy to meet people.

Must-Try Balinese Food on Your Solo Trip

Exploring Balinese cuisine is an adventure in itself.

• Nasi Campur – A mixed plate of rice with vegetables, meat, and eggs
  
  
• Babi Guling – Balinese-style roast pork
  
  
• Nasi Goreng – Indonesia’s famous fried rice
  
  
• Sate Lilit – Spiced minced meat on lemongrass sticks
  
  
• Gado-Gado – Salad with peanut sauce
  
  
• Lawar – Spiced meat and veggie mix
  

For dessert, don’t miss Dadar Gulung (pandan crepes with coconut).

Cultural Etiquette to Remember

• Dress modestly when visiting temples (carry a sarong)
  
  
• Use your right hand when giving or receiving items
  
  
• Avoid touching anyone’s head — it’s considered sacred
  
  
• Learn a few basic phrases:
  
  
  • Hello: "Om Swastiastu"
    
    
  • Thank you: "Terima Kasih"
    
    
  • Yes: "Ya", No: "Tidak"
    

Respect for local customs will enrich your experience and deepen your connection to Bali.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Solo Experiences

• Trekking in Munduk: Waterfalls, spice plantations, and untouched nature
  
  
• Sidemen Valley: Quiet countryside perfect for reading, writing, or introspection
  
  
• Pemuteran: Ideal for diving and coral restoration experiences
  
  
• Menjangan Island: Known for crystal-clear water and reef diving
  

These hidden gems offer tranquil environments, perfect for solo introspection and meaningful travel.

Packing Tips for a Solo Bali Trip

• Light breathable clothing
  
  
• Swimwear
  
  
• Sarong (for temples)
  
  
• Reusable water bottle
  
  
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
  
  
• Power adapter (Type C and F plugs)
  
  
• Waterproof phone pouch (for beach and waterfalls)
  
  
• Travel insurance documents
  

Pro tip: Don’t overpack. Bali is very casual, and you’ll likely shop at the local markets.

The Wellness and Healing Scene in Bali

One of the most profound aspects of travelling solo in Bali is the opportunity to focus on wellness and healing. The island is dotted with retreats, spas, and holistic centres that offer everything from traditional Balinese massages to sound healing sessions, detox programmes, and reiki. Ubud, in particular, has gained a global reputation for its alternative healing therapies. Places like Fivelements Retreat and Shambala Spa allow you to unwind, recharge, and explore deeper levels of self-awareness. Even if you’re not into spiritual practices, indulging in a flower bath or volcanic mud wrap is a unique Balinese experience that soothes both body and mind.

Photography and Nature Walks

If you’re a photography enthusiast or someone who finds joy in nature, Bali is your canvas. From the golden glow of sunrise at Mount Batur to the cascading Gitgit and Sekumpul waterfalls, the island’s landscapes are stunning and diverse. Solo travellers often enjoy venturing out on nature walks through rice paddies, forests, and coastal cliffs. Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud is an easy yet scenic route where you can soak in lush greenery without crowds. These walks are perfect for moments of introspection and also offer some of the best photo opportunities for those capturing their travel memories.

Volunteering and Giving Back

Another enriching experience for solo travellers in Bali is participating in volunteer programmes. Opportunities range from teaching English to children, beach clean-up drives, animal rescue work, and marine conservation projects. Volunteering allows you to give back to the community and develop a deeper connection with the island beyond tourism. Organisations like BAWA (Bali Animal Welfare Association) and Green School Bali’s outreach programmes welcome travellers looking to make a positive impact. Spending even a few days volunteering can be a deeply fulfilling part of your solo journey.

Also Read:- How to Plan a Bali Trip from India: Complete Guide

Nightlife and Social Activities

Bali’s nightlife is diverse and surprisingly solo-friendly. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or enjoy live acoustic music, there’s something for everyone. Canggu is a hub for beach bars and social hangouts like Old Man’s, The Lawn, and Deus Ex Machina, where solo travellers often mingle. For something more upscale, Seminyak’s beach clubs like Ku De Ta and Potato Head offer cocktails and sunset views. Ubud offers a quieter scene, with conscious dance events, ecstatic dance sessions, and open mic nights. You can enjoy nightlife at your own pace — whether that’s partying or engaging in deeper conversations over dinner.

Internet Connectivity and Working Remotely

If you're planning a workcation or digital nomad lifestyle, Bali is more than ready to support it. Coworking spaces in towns like Canggu and Ubud come equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and networking events. Places like Dojo, Outpost, and Tropical Nomad not only offer great infrastructure but also foster a community of like-minded individuals. This makes solo working life less lonely and more collaborative. Many solo travellers use Bali as a base to balance work with leisure, making it one of the top remote work destinations in Asia.

Local Markets and Artisan Shopping

Exploring Bali’s local markets is a joy for solo travellers, offering a rich sensory and cultural experience. From the Ubud Art Market to the chic boutiques of Seminyak and the night markets in Gianyar, there’s an abundance of handcrafted items, traditional textiles, silver jewellery, wood carvings, and wellness products. Shopping solo allows you to take your time, speak with artisans, and learn the stories behind each product. Don’t forget to bargain — it’s part of the fun and expected in most local markets. Bringing home a few keepsakes not only supports local artisans but also gives you a tangible memory of your time on the island.

Reflection and Growth: Why Solo Travel in Bali is Transformative

Solo travel in Bali isn’t just a vacation — it’s a personal journey. With its serene temples, soul-soothing beaches, vibrant community, and healing rituals, the island invites you to slow down and connect with your inner self.

Many solo travellers come to Bali for a week and end up staying for months — and it’s easy to see why. Whether you're recovering from burnout, seeking creative inspiration, or simply looking to enjoy your own company, Bali has a way of showing you exactly what you need.

Final Thoughts

A solo trip to Bali can be an empowering, soul-enriching experience. The island’s warm hospitality, spiritual charm, and natural beauty make it the perfect destination to explore on your own. You’ll leave with new stories, new friends, and maybe even a new outlook on life.

Plan Your Dream Solo Trip with boardtobali

If you’re ready to embark on your solo adventure but aren’t sure where to start, let boardtobali help you craft the perfect itinerary. With local expertise, curated experiences, and support tailored for solo travellers, boardtobali ensures your trip is seamless, safe, and unforgettable. Whether you want a cultural immersion, beach escape, or wellness retreat, boardtobali is your trusted partner for discovering the magic of Bali — your way.