The Ultimate 4 Week Guide to Exploring Bali
Whether you’re a digital nomad, solo backpacker, or a couple chasing tropical dreams, this 4-week Bali itinerary blends adventure, culture, and chill. From surfing Uluwatu’s legendary waves to temple-hopping in Ubud, diving in Tulamben, and sipping coconuts on Virgin Beach. This guide takes you beyond the tourist trail to uncover Bali’s soul.
With practical tips, local insights, and a flexible schedule built for independent travellers, your month in Bali will feel effortless—and unforgettable.
- The Ultimate 4 Week Guide to Exploring Bali
- Coming out of the Airport – SIM Cards and Money Exchange in Bali
- Transport, Ride Hailing and Food Delivery Apps
- Renting or Learning to Drive a Scooter in Bali
- Uluwatu
- Kuta
- Canggu & Perenan
- Tabanan
- Ubud
- Tulamben and Amed
- Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan
- The Gilli Islands, Lombok
- Escaping to Virgin Beach – A Coastal Gem Beyond Ubud
- 🗺️ 4-Week Bali Travel Itinerary for Adventurers & Nomads
- ☀️ When to Visit Bali: Seasons, Weather & Travel Tips
- 🌅 Conclusion – Wrapping Up Your 4-Week Bali Odyssey
Coming out of the Airport – SIM Cards and Money Exchange in Bali
Money Exchange and ATMs
Avoid airport kiosks for currency exchange. A money changer right outside gives much better rates. For reliable ATM withdrawals, use Wise. You’ll get three free or low-fee withdrawals per month.
I also use my Wirex card for up to $200 worth of fee-free withdrawals from ATMs. Many readers also prefer Up Bank or Revolut for zero ATM fees (see our detailed travel bank card comparison).
Here’s a handy table showing the latest exchange rates to Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) for the currencies you asked about:
| Currency | Code | 💱 1 Unit = IDR |
|---|---|---|
| 🇦🇺 Australian Dollar | AUD | Rp10,665 |
| 🇺🇸 US Dollar | USD | Rp16,390 |
| 🇪🇺 Euro | EUR | Rp19,218 |
| 🇿🇦 South African Rand | ZAR | Rp913 |
SIM Cards
SIM plans inside and outside the airport are very affordable and I ended up paying 150k IDR for an LTE/5G pre-paid SIM card with 30GB of data with XL as the data provider inside the airport. Doing so, allowed me to book our transport without getting ripped off by chance-taker taxi drivers.
Upon further review after two I’d recommend going with Telkomsel for a lower data package for the same price as their coverage is way better on the island. I found XL’s data speeds and coverage for LTE and 5G to be too spotty and slow.
Transport, Ride Hailing and Food Delivery Apps
Grab and Gojek
Grab and Gojek (local and cheaper) are two must-have taxi and bike hailing apps that work super well while you’re on the island. They are also packed with features and in my opinion better than Uber.
Both apps also allow one to order alcohol, groceries and food to one’s hotel or accommodation if you feel like staying indoors for the day and have numerous daily promotional coupons that can make your order or trip cheaper.
The rate from the airport to Seminyak or Canggu via Gojek will be between 80k to 115k IDR. Grab is about 20k IDR on average more expensive than Gojek for transport.
I tested ordering food from the same restaurant in Canggu (Pizza Fabbrica) from both apps and Grab ended up being cheaper by about 25k IDR when ordering a margherita pizza. I usually end up comparing the rates of both apps and choosing the cheapest one when ordering taxis and food.
Shopee Food
Shopee Food is another option that works in Bali and tends to be cheaper than Grab and Gojek for ordering food.
Renting or Learning to Drive a Scooter in Bali
Scooter Prices
I personally think scooters make the experience in Bali and any South East Asian nation truly special, as you get to experience the island in all its colours on your own time schedule and at a discounted rate compared to using taxis. Driving a scooter also feels super liberating to have the wind blowing over one’s hair and skin when one’s in the countryside.
Scooters are relatively inexpensive and a 110cc Scoopy or 125cc Honda Vario can be rented for as little as 80-100k IDR per day. However, renting for 1 week works out to about 450 IDR for the two models mentioned above (less than 64-65k IDR per day). I’d recommend Brothers Scooters or Aditya Scooters for this rate.
Make sure to take a snap shot of the scooter prices and use it when comparing prices elsewhere on the island. One example is when I stayed in Ubud. The owner of the hotel wanted to charge us more for the week for a Honda Vario, about 580k for a week. Thankfully I had the picture in my gallery and showed him what I ended up paying in Canggu. He politely accepted the 450k IDR for the week that I offered him.
Avoid Peak Hour Traffic in Canggu and Ubud
However, be warned though, as driving through the main town centres of Canggu and Ubud can generally be quite congested. So, it’s advisable to wake up and depart on your day trip around 6-8 am and get back around 3pm before the peak-hour traffic hits.
Driving any time from 12-13:00 PM and 15:00-18:00 PM can be quite hectic, noisy and stressful if you’re not a seasoned scooter or motorbike rider.
Safety and International Driving Permits
Always get a helmet for safety and to avoid fines around Ubud. Bringing an international driving permit wouldn’t hurt, as on rare occasions in the past while I was driving through the countryside surrounding Ubud, two corrupt cops were waiting to ambush international scooter drivers with fines. They were slightly disappointed and surprised to see I had my international driving permit and they couldn’t fault me for my driving as I was within the speed limit and happened to be wearing my helmet that day.
On another funny occasion, when I was driving way back in 2018 (my first Bali visit), one cop pulled me over for going the wrong direction (which was my fault), however the fine was not proportional to the infringement and he ended up pulling me aside to a back room area away from the view of other traffic officers and trying to charge me 800k IDR. I sheepishly told him it was too expensive and that I only had 400k IDR on me. He grinned and eventually accepted the “braai” offer.
Uluwatu
Located in the south of Bali on the Nusa Dua peninsula (the peninsula kind of looks like a dangling berry on the map), Uluwatu has some of the prettiest beaches on the island and amazing surf breaks for surfers and people who enjoy white sand beaches and steep cliffs with reefs.
It’s a lot less crowded in Uluwatu compared to places like Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu. I’d recommend 5+ days here depending on your available time.
Rather stay in Uluwatu itself rather than driving through from other places more central on the island (Canngu and Ubud) for day trips as the traffic can be quite hectic going through the narrow long highway past the airport.
Kuta
Kuta has some decent non-black sand beaches but the city centre from first impressions was way too crowded, expensive and noisy. It’s an area of Bali known for its clubs and party scene.
The one redeeming quality of Kuta in my opinion is that it does have better beaches compared to the likes of Canggu which only has black sand beaches. In recent years, it’s also become less popular compared to Canggu and therefore ironically has now become less crowded in the 2020’s.
If you are in Kuta and looking for some good night life and dancing then Skygarden Club Bali (https://baliskygarden.com) is a must visit for those so inclined. In general however, I wouldn’t recommend staying in Kuta more than 3 days as there are much more impressive and culturally immersive places around the island.
Canggu & Perenan
Widely known as a surfing, party and nomad hotspot, the place, since 2018, has rapidly been developing over the years and has become one of the busiest and best places on the island. If you’re a big foodie and into healthy and tasty eating – you’ll also love Canggu.
Perenan is right next door Canggu and is in my opinion the next Canggu as it’s a little less crowded with motorbikes and has numerous new restaurants and gyms around and the feeling is definitely more of a premium vibe. However, like much of the rest of Bali, the roads probably can’t accommodate all this future expansion.
Places to eat out in Canggu and Perenan
As mentioned, Canggu is a mecca for foodies. Here is my personal list of recommended places to eat out.
Cinta
Try their superhero smoothie 60k IDR and Turkish eggs 55k IDR. They also have 40% off all their pastas on Saturdays.
Bokashi
This a beautiful restaurant has ambient and romantic vibes, diaphanous lighting and a Japanese-inspired decor. I’d recommend the sunset cocktail (120k IDR), or their Gin & Tonic with cucumber (110k IDR). It goes really well with their takoyaki (Japanese octopus balls, 65k IDR).
Come only in the evening as the brunch and lunch menus are not nearly as varied or generous.
Cactus Cafe
Cactus Cafe is a great spot to get work done. Most of the bench tables have plug points and all the dishes a lot more affordable compared to the rest of the restaurants in Perenan’s main street.
Chow Chow
The Shady Shack
The shady shack has already been around for quite some time. Those that are looking for a more quiet and chilled spot to get work done will like the Shady Shack. Try their brekkie burger for 70k IDR. They also have a fantastic selection of vegetarian and vegan options, cakes and shakes.
Canteen
Canteen is one of the oldest and most established Warungs in Canggu. It was established back in the hay days when Canggu was a lot more like a quieter surfing village rather than the current hustle and bustle that is present there now.
It has strong following from the Aussie community that are into great coffee and breakfasts. I’d recommend their breakfast burrito (85k IDR), coffee (35k IDR) and their smashed avo with eggs (70k IDR).
Smoke
Smoke has a fantastic outdoor BBQ space for those meat lovers out there. I’d recommend trying out their Brisket platter topped with beef brisket, grilled chicken, coleslaw and pickled onions and cucumbers for 220k IDR.
Other notable restaurant spots
- Naked Bun – great burgers, try their classic for 85k IDR
- Gather Cafe – plenty of plug points for working and great coffee
- Mostly – Opposite Cinta, great in the evenings for cocktails and starters
- Oka’s Bakery and Cafe – They have a cheap and wide selection of pastries and cakes and a great upstairs seating area with plug points and fast WiFi that is mostly quiet and peaceful.
- Cumulus Cafe – Great mocktails and coffee, dishes tend to cost close to Australian prices
- Seoul Soul Project – As you guessed from the name, they serve Korean classic dishes such as bibimpap, bugolgi udon, teokbokki, kimchi pancakes and crispy-sweet Korean fried chicken.
Stay tuned for my top restaurant recommendations in Canggu and Perenan (read here)
Gyms and workout spots in Canggu and Perenan
- Rhythm and Rumble’s Alpha Force Gym
- Offers private and group Muay Thai, MMA and boxing classes 4 times a day
- 200k IDR per group class or 450k IDR per week for 5 classes
- Bros Gym
- Wrong Gym
- Wellness Gym Canggu
- Body Factory
Tabanan
How to get to Tabanan from Canggu or Perenan
Tabanan can be reached by going straight North from Canggu or Perenan by scooter or Grab. The area is quite large and is located west of Ubud.
Things to see and do in and around Tabanan
I cannot begin to describe how beautiful Tabanan is – it has it all. It has many authentic and beautiful rice fields and surrounding farms with lush jungle. What about chocolate, no problem there’s a chocolate plantation and factory nearby on the way. How about monkeys, yup – it has plenty of well-behaved monkeys at a fraction of the price of the now very touristy Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud.
Alas Kedaton Monkey Sanctuary
This monkey sanctuary is a far more rewarding and authentic experience compared to Ubud’s very touristy Sacred Monkey Forest.
The drive on the way to the monkey sanctuary, through the surrounding countryside, will take around 1 and a 1/2 hours from Canggu and about 50 min from Ubud.
Entry to the sanctuary costs a mere 35k IDR and includes a personal local female guide. The guide will take about the surrounding temples, the amount of monkeys in this troop etc. The monkeys over here are also far better behaved due lower tourist numbers and the presence of disciplinary measures (a long big stick to encourage monkeys to not misbehave).
At the back of the sanctuary you will be introduced to the fruit bats that are kept as an additional experience that you can pay for. You get to hold the bats, if that’s your thing, and feed them some fruit and pose with them for photos.
My local guide Made also took us to the local surrounding stores where you are encouraged to buy some local arts and crafts. You can politely refuse or offer them anywhere from 25-50k IDR for a souvenir to support their local business.
Chocolate Making Tour and Tasting at Cau Chocolates
Ulun Danu Water Temple and Lake Beratan
Tickets for the Lake Beratan temple cost 75k IDR for foreign adults. The drive up from Canggu and Ubud and take quite some time (around 1.5-2 hours). Make sure to take some earphones for a good road-trip playlist.
The Great Bayan Tree
The great tree is close to the chocolate factory and can be combined in one trip while visiting the Alas kedaton. The size is truly impressive and it towers above the adjacent shrines and housing nearby.
Leke Leke and Hidden Waterfall
Ubud
If you are a big foodie and enjoyed eating in Canggu, then plenty of loving and praying can be done in Ubud. It is known as the cultural heart of Bali and was once the centre of its more older empire.
The town has stunning temples and beautiful rice terraces that tower above palm trees. These days Ubud has become a lot more touristy but you can still find seclusion in the early morning hours on the rice terraces and in the many yoga centres and retreats. The town has quite a big yogi and bohemian vibe and spirituality, alternative healing and inner connection is what draws most people visiting it.
The town is also a good base to explore the rest of the island during day trips to more quieter spots around Sidemen, Sanur and Virgin Beach.
Top Activities Around Ubud
Tagallagan Rice Terraces and Luwak Coffee Tasting
One should go during the early morning or late afternoon around golden hour. Entrance is 35k IDR per person and includes a complimentary tea and coffee tasting.
You’ll be able to try the infamous Luwak coffee (kopi luwak)—aka the “cat poop brew”—made from beans that have taken a detour through a civet’s digestive system. It’s smooth, pricey, and oddly prestigious for something that was once nestled in animal guts. If you’re wondering what luxury tastes like… it might just be slightly fermented furball – yum!
Tirta Empul – Bali’s Sacred Spring Temple
Just outside Ubud in the village of Tampaksiring, Tirta Empul stands as one of Bali’s most revered spiritual sites. Dating back to 962 A.D., this temple complex is centered around a bubbling natural spring believed to hold purifying powers. Locals and visitors alike come to partake in a ritual cleansing ceremony known as melukat, moving from spout to spout to wash away negative energy and restore balance.
You don’t need to be religious to feel the quiet magic here. The water is cold, the air is fragrant with incense, and the experience—whether observed or participated in—is deeply moving. You’ll be guided through the correct order of fountains (usually 11 in total) and encouraged to bring modest attire, a sarong, and an open heart.
Beyond the pools, Tirta Empul is surrounded by mossy courtyards, ancient carvings, and towering banyan trees.
As of January 2025, the entrance fee to Tirta Empul Temple is:
| Visitor Type | Entrance Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults | IDR 75,000 |
| Children (5–12 years) | IDR 50,000 |
| Children under 5 | Free |
Taman Sari Waterfall
Taman Sari is one of the cleanest and well-kept waterfalls surrounding Ubud. Entrance is 30k IDR per person and there are onsite change rooms and toilets which are perfect for families and bike-wondering nomads.
The Elephant Cave Temple – Goa Gajah
Entrance to Goa Gajah is 50k IDR for adults and 25k IDR for children.
Do not fall for scammers who will insist that you buy a sarong to enter the temple. You do need a sarong to cover your knees and shoulders, however, right at the entrance, local Balinese will hand you a “free” one included as part of your entrance ticket – you do not need to buy one!
Kecak Fire Dance at Ubud Peliatan Balerung Stage
This is a highly-recommened activity and entrance tickets to the Ubud Peliatan Belarung Stage cost 100k IDR. You will be able to view the Ramayana dance often performed as a Kecak and Fire Dance or Legong Ramayana Ballet.
The Ramayana dance in Ubud brings the ancient Hindu epic to life through fire, trance, and mesmerizing movement. Performed in temple courtyards at dusk, the story follows Prince Rama’s quest to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana, aided by the monkey god Hanuman.
From golden deer illusions and magical battles to the fiery climax of human purification, this dramatic performance blends Balinese artistry with timeless myth in a spectacle that captivates all who watch.
Sacred Monkey Forest
This one is here, as a recommendation against going. However, it can still be a fun outing for a family or some people not well connected to nature.
Beware of the monkeys here as they can sometimes become very aggressive towards tourists. This bad behaviour was due to many bad tourists feeding the monkeys in the past. Today however, it’s more controlled and their is now ticket booth charging a 100k IDR “conservation fee”.
I personally found the experience to be quite crowded and touristy. I’d recommend Alas Kedaton Monkey Sanctuary instead, near Tabanan if you want a more chilled and positive encounter with monkeys)
Silver Jewellery Making Classes
Ever dreamt of making your own unique jewellery? Well-now you can! Ubud has numerous Jewelry-making workshops dotted around town. Classes are meant for anyone looking to make a unique piece for themselves or their partners. Costs range from 400-600k IDR per class and include 0.25 ounces (7 grams) of silver for your ring or pendant.
Other notable activities around Ubud
- Mount Batur Early Morning Hike
- Ubud street food tour and cooking lessons
- River rafting
- ATV quad bike riding
Places to eat out in Ubud
One thing that has slowly started fading from Canggu and Seminyak is local and cheap Warung restaurants. These are still numerous and serve tasty alternative local Indonesian food for as little as 35-39k IDR all around Ubud.
I’d recommend trying the local dishes Babi Guling, nasi goreng, satay with peanut sauce, Tempe and a local fermented rice wine called brem.
Best restaurants and cafe’s around Ubud
Alchemy
This is a feel-good vegan cafe and health shop with plenty of plug points to get work done. Although they don’t serve any egg or meat dishes, I’d recommend trying their mushroom soup with reishi, chaga and other culinary mushrooms – 89k IDR.
Sayuri Healing Food
Great peaceful and feel-good vibe place perfect for vegans and vegetarians and anyone after some great coffee, health tonics and smoothies that will get you “om-ing” and “brom-ing” before you know it. It attracts those into alternative healing, yoga, reiki and the health conscious hippie “woo-woo” types if so inclined. If you go with an open mind, it’s a great place to get work done and connect with like-minded individuals.
I’d recommend trying their vegan omelette (69k IDR), Resihi Miso soup (29 IDR), Pumpkin Coco soup (39k IDR) and the Reuben Sandwich (79k IDR).
They also have vegan cooking workshops at the venue and offer various activities throughout the week in their various spaces upstairs and across the restaurant ranging from Spanish (10-12 am on Fridays), Bahasa and Balinese classes, to healing circles and music for women and men. Sundays at Sayuri include live band performances playing different music genres.
Pine
Pine is a small restaurant serving various Japanese warm dishes and sushi. I’d recommend their rainbow (110k IDR) and unagi rolls (130k IDR) and miso soup (29k IDR).
Waroeng (Warung) Bernadette
Warung Bernadette’s is a fancy Warung that serves their signature Beef Rendang dish (179k IDR). They also have other affordable and delicious local Jakartan and Balinese dishes. Try their Nasi Gudu (69k IDR), their Nasi Bihun, Mie Goreng, Bakso with their Bernadette’s Tea (warm ginger, lime and honey tea).
Umah’s Pizza
Umah Pizza has been around for ages and still charges affordable prices for its pizzas. Expect to pay 60k IDR for a large margherita pizza.
Other Great Mentions
- Blue Clover – avoidable and friendly service
- Bali Green Sunset – Cafe, Bar & Ricefield – great for cocktails and light meals next to the rice fields, also a beautiful drive
- No Mas Bar and Restaurant – best place to dance and have a fun night out (latin dancing and alternative rock)
Co-working Spaces in Ubud:
Ubud is a hub for digital nomads, offering a variety of co-working spaces to suit different needs and preferences.
- Ubud Space (Link)
- Pricing: Starting from 100k IDR/day, 1.5 million IDR/month for unlimited access.
- Vibe: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and strong sense of community, often attracting creatives and wellness practitioners.
- Amenities: Reliable high-speed internet, air-conditioned workspaces, comfortable seating, complimentary water, and occasional workshops.
- Why choose it: Ideal for those seeking a more laid-back environment with opportunities to network with like-minded individuals.
- Outpost Ubud Coworking (Link)
- Pricing: Day passes from 150k IDR, monthly memberships around 2 million IDR.
- Vibe: A more structured and professional environment, popular with serious digital nomads and entrepreneurs. It’s spacious and well-designed for productivity.
- Amenities: Multiple work zones (quiet areas, call booths, lounge areas), super-fast internet, air conditioning, meeting rooms, café on-site, and a swimming pool at some locations. They also host regular events and skill-sharing sessions.
- Why choose it: Excellent facilities for focused work and a strong professional community. Great for those who need consistent, high-quality infrastructure.
Tulamben and Amed
If you’re not into the party, foodie, yogi and hippie vibes of Canggu and Ubud, then Tulamben and nearby Amed will be for you, especially if you’re a scuba diver.
The area surrounding Tulamben and Amed is home to numerous shore wreck dive spots:
- Coral Gardens
- Boga wreck
- Japanese ship wreck in Amed
- The famous USAT liberty wreck
Lunar Dive Resort – Bamboo Villas
I’d recommend Lunar Dive Resort: Bamboo Villas if you’re keen on doing your first diving course or interested in progressing to your advanced or rescue divers in a very friendly, safe and chilled environment.
The resort is run by a South African family and local Balinese instructors with years of expertise in diving.
They’re SSI certified and they have a two separate facilities with large diving pools and diving shop to train students pursuing their Open Water certification.
They will be able to provide you with a discounted airport shuttle if you’ve pre-made a booking with them. Back in 2022, I was charged a discounted rate of 600k IDR for a private shuttle associated with them.
Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan
The small islands just off the coast of Bali, Nusa Penida and Lembongan are known for drift diving due to the strong currents as well as snorkeling with Manta rays in Crystal Bay.
How to get Nusa Penida and Lembongan from Ubud and Canggu
The islands can be reached by taking a one-way 350k IDR ferry from Padang Bai. A return ticket can be purchased 500k IDR If you intend on returning back to where you started.
This will include a taxi or shuttle service from your hotel to your final accommodation on the islands.
Top Attractions and Places in Nusa Penida and Lembongan
- Nusa Lembongan – quieter than Nusa Penida and a great place to chill and collect oneself
- Mushroom Bay
- Mangrove Point
- Devil’s Tears
- Snorkeling with Mantas in Crystal and Manta Bay – worth the effort to see these graceful animals feeding
- Diamond Beach – rent a scooter and go out for the day to this jaw-dropping beach
- Kelingking Beach – a must-visit spot on Nusa Penida famous for its T-rex shaped peninsula
- Broken Bridge
The Gilli Islands, Lombok
Besides Nusa Penida, the Gili islands of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gil Air (The Gilis) are definitely a must for every first time traveler to Bali!
These islands, officially part of the larger Indonesian island of Lombok, offer an idyllic and unique escape from the noisy traffic of Bali, as only horse carts, bicycles and low powered electrical scooters are allowed.
That said the island also has a surprisingly lively night life in the open street. So, loads of dance and live band spots on Gili T.
How to get to the Gilis from Bali (Canggu and Ubud)
You can reach the Gilis by taking a taxi or Grab straight from Ubud or Canggu to Padang Bai for 180-230k IDR. From Padang Bai you can negotiate a ticket with the many travel agencies next to the pier. One-way and return tickets from Canggu will set you back 500 and 750k IDR respectively (refer to the price list from Canggu in the picture above under the Nusa Penida section).
Beaches, Snorkelling and Diving Around the Gilis
The beaches here are naturally quite stunning and filled with numerous sea turtles feeding off the sea grass and around the healthy reefs. One can easily spend hours in the water and snorkel with these relaxed animals and the colourful fish and coral. Renting a snorkel will cost one 30-50k IDR for the day.
The main island Gill Trawangan (Gili T) as well as Gili Meno and Gili Air also have numerous scuba schools making them an ideal spot to acquire your diving certifications. I’d recommend Manta Dive resort on Gili T as they one of the top Diamond Rated SSI Dive Centers and Instructor Training Facilities on the islands (https://manta-dive.com/).
Escaping to Virgin Beach – A Coastal Gem Beyond Ubud
If you’re craving a quieter slice of paradise beyond the heart of Bali’s cultural hub, Virgin Beach (Pantai Pasir Putih) delivers a stunning payoff at the end of a rugged journey. Nestled near Karangasem on the island’s east coast, it’s one of the few white-sand beaches in a region known for its volcanic shores and feels worlds away from the buzz of Ubud.
Getting There from Ubud
- Distance: Roughly 2.5 hours (65–75 km) by car or scooter
- Route: Head east via Jalan Raya Manggis through Sidemen Valley for one of Bali’s most scenic drives
- Tips: A private driver is recommended if you’re not comfortable on winding roads on a scooter. There’s limited signage near the turn-off to the beach, so GPS will be your friend.
The Road Along the Way
- Meandering through rice terraces, misty foothills, and villages that feel untouched by tourism
- You’ll pass traditional markets and glimpse Mt. Agung on clear days
- The final stretch includes a steep descent through palm groves—be prepared for narrow roads and a short unpaved walk
The Beach Itself
- A hidden white-sand cove with turquoise water, tucked between green cliffs
- Local warungs line the shore serving grilled fish, cold coconut, and Balinese snacks
- Gentle waves make it perfect for swimming or just wading in tranquility
- Less crowded than south Bali beaches—expect a few sun-loungers, not hordes
Virgin Beach is for seekers – not surfers or socialites. If your idea of bliss is sipping fresh juice with sand between your toes and the sound of nothing but rolling waves, this little inlet might just be your favourite memory of Bali.
🗺️ 4-Week Bali Travel Itinerary for Adventurers & Nomads
This flexible itinerary guides backpackers, remote workers, and explorers through Bali’s coastlines, culture, and hidden gems in just four weeks. Each destination offers a unique rhythm—surf, sacred spaces, underwater worlds, and island escapes.
| Week | Destination(s) | Highlights & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Uluwatu | Cliffside sunsets, temple views, surf beaches, beach clubs (start relaxed) |
| Canggu | Digital cafés, boutique shops, nightlife, Tanah Lot temple nearby | |
| Perenan & Tabanan | Laidback ricefields, less-touristy surf, scenic drives | |
| 2 | Ubud | Yoga, monkey forest, waterfalls, markets, cultural immersion |
| Virgin Beach (bonus day trip) | Remote white sand cove, seafood warungs, off-the-grid chill | |
| 3 | Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan | Island hopping, iconic cliff views, snorkeling with manta rays |
| 4 | Tulamben & Amed | Shipwreck diving, quiet fishing villages, sunrise over Mt. Agung |
| Gili Islands & Lombok | Beach biking, snorkeling, turtle spotting, party vs. peace—pick your Gili vibe |
Tips for Travellers
- Travel light and smart: Bali’s terrain can shift from sand to jungle in a day
- Rent scooters or arrange private drivers for flexibility
- Book island transfers and diving sessions ahead—especially for Penida and Gilis
- Stay 3–5 nights per destination, with extra flex days built in
☀️ When to Visit Bali: Seasons, Weather & Travel Tips
Bali’s tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but timing your trip right can elevate your experience.
🌤️ Dry Season (April to October) – Best for Beaches & Adventure
- Weather: Sunny skies, lower humidity, minimal rainfall
- Ideal for: Surfing, diving, hiking, and beach-hopping
- Top months: May, June, and September offer great weather with fewer crowds
- Crowds: July and August are peak season—book early and expect busy hotspots
🌧️ Wet Season (November to March) – Lush Landscapes & Fewer Tourists
- Weather: Warm with tropical showers, especially in the afternoons
- Ideal for: Cultural experiences, spa retreats, and exploring Bali’s green interior
- Pros: Lower prices, quieter beaches, vibrant rice terraces
- Cons: Rain may affect outdoor plans; some beaches can be less clean due to runoff
🌅 Conclusion – Wrapping Up Your 4-Week Bali Odyssey
I’ve been coming to Bali since 2018 and the island has truly left a profound impact and personal change in myself and hopefully it does the same for you too.
This month-long journey isn’t just about ticking destinations off a list. It’s about the rhythm of slow mornings and spontaneous detours, the blend of vibrant culture and quiet coves, and the memories etched in the spaces between movement and stillness. Bali has a way of staying with you.
From the creative pulse of Canggu to the spiritual heart of Ubud… from deep-sea adventures in Tulamben to golden sunsets in Uluwatu… from island-hopping across Nusa Penida and the Gilis to the hidden serenity of Virgin Beach—you’ve truly tasted the full flavor of Bali.
If you enjoyed this post and it helped you plan your upcoming trip to Bali, please leave me a comment. I’d love hear your feedback and questions.
