How to Enjoy Your First Trip to Bali - Tips on Making the Most of Your First Holiday in Bali

Tipped to be Asia's finest and most affordable beach holiday hub, Bali packs in a punch in terms of touristic value. Blessed with white, sandy beaches and iconic Hindu temples dating back centuries, the rich cultural heritage and the island's strategic location makes it an irresistible vacation hotspot for the masses. From enjoying the island's lesser-known highlights to signing up for exciting activities, here's how to make the most of your first getaway to paradise. 

^{Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia | Image by Alexa West via Unsplash} 

1. Discover Hidden Beaches

While Nusa Dua, Seminyak and Kuta are some of the best-known beaches on the island, there's more to Bali than its crowded touristy seaside capitals. Those on the lookout for a secluded and serene beach away from the hustle and bustle will find that there are plenty of secret beaches only a fraction of the holidaymakers are even aware of. Some of these hidden beaches include Pemutih Beach and stunning Suluban Beach which also contains its own secret cave. Other lesser-known beaches in Bali include Soka Beach with its black sands and Green Bowl Beach.

2. Hit the Cultural Highlights

No trip to Bali would be complete without discovering the island's heritage sites and breathtaking temples. Dating back centuries, Bali's temples are nearly all located on a cliff by the ocean as it has religious significance. These temples, which number 7 in all, are known to have been built in order to protect the island from harm. The Uluwatu Temple is perhaps the most popular of the seven as it is where tourists can witness Kecak fire dance recitals every evening although the massive Tanah Lot Temple is no less impressive. Visitors should also take the time to tour the GWK Cultural Park where the world's highest statue or Lord Vishnu is found.

3. Explore Beach Clubs in Bali

Beach clubs offer travellers a welcome respite from the heat and humidity of Bali while allowing them to enjoy the beauty of a seaside location. Featuring excellent restaurants and large pools, beach clubs in Bali are a great place to mingle and spend time partying till the wee hours of the morning. Cafe Del Mar and the Mari Beach Club are the hippest beach clubs on the island while La Brisa and the Locca Sea House are not far behind in terms of the exclusivity of their clientele and party atmosphere. Those based at Discover ASR resorts and other serviced accommodation & hotels will find that they are within close range of most of these clubs. 

4. Enjoy Water Sports Activities

Regarded as one of Asia's top holiday destinations for water sports lovers, a getaway in Bali would truly be amiss if one does not try one's hand at the many water-bound activities on offer. Bali's weather, water and wind conditions are ideal for water sports such as surfing, snorkelling and scuba diving while jet skiing, parasailing and water skiing are other exciting things to do. Those who wish to learn how to surf can sign up for lessons at the Kamafari Surf Camp. Flyboarding is another fun activity that you can try during a stay in Bali whereas families can splash around at Waterbom Bali, the best water park in the region. 

5. Shop till You Drop

Shopaholics should not miss out on the bargains and crafts that are up for grabs in Bali's best local markets. The Ubud Art Market and the Badung Market are not the only bustling fairs that one can attend during a trip to Bali as the charming Kuta Art Market and the Bedugul Traditional Market offer amazing discounts on everything from local treats to clothing and accessories.