Best Things To Do In Bali In The Summer For Solo Travellers

Summer is the best time to visit Bali. You can actually rely on the weather, the evenings are cooler, and you won’t spend half your holiday hiding from the rain or constantly swatting mosquitoes. It’s the season I look forward to the most because I finally get to enjoy outdoor activities, which is what I love the most about living here.

I spend as much time outdoors as possible during the dry season. One weekend I’ll be snorkelling around Nusa Penida hoping to spot manta rays, the next I’ll be driving up to Sekumpul or Munduk to explore some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali. Summer is also the perfect time for sunrise hikes, surfing, beach days, and exploring places that are much less enjoyable during the rainy season.

If you’re planning a trip between May and September, this guide covers the best things to do in Bali during summer. I’ve included my favourite activities, the experiences I’d book first, and plenty of tips I’ve picked up from living on the island, so you can spend less time researching and more time making the most of your trip.

➡️ Before you start planning, grab my FREE Bali Travel Checklist to make sure you have everything sorted for your summer adventure

#1 Get In The Water!

Snorkelling and surfing are the most popular activities here in Bali, and I have to say they are easy to book and extremely safe for female solo travellers like us!

I have to say I always met professional instructors/guides and never had to pay extra just because I was booking 1 ticket only.

🏄🏽 Best surf spots in Bali

Bali is one of the best surf spots in the world! It’s so nice to surf here because the water is warm, there are really good instructors and it’s affordable. If you’re a beginner, check out this guide on where to learn how to surf in Bali.

Canggu and Uluwatu are the top places to surf in Bali. You can easily rent a board or take a class with a local instructor. For Canggu, I would go to Echo Beach and take it from there. There are many surf schools on the beach and they can easily slot you in the next session without booking in advance.

Uluwatu, I recommend Padang Padang Beach (beginner and intermediate) and Impossible Beach only if you are advanced! Check out the best beaches in Uluwatu here!

🤿 Best snorkelling experiences in Bali

Yes, you can finally book a snorkelling trip knowing you will get the best water visibility and no chances of rain! These are the best spots for snorkelling in Bali!

Person wearing a life jacket smiles while sitting on a blue glass bottom boat, with the clear viewing panel revealing the water below. Other passengers sit around the boat as it floats near a tropical island shoreline.

Manta Point around Nusa Penida:

Here you can swim with manta rays and see the turtles. They give you a safety jacket if you are worried about swimming in the deep waters. They also always provide snorkelling masks and fins (all in great condition).

➡️ I recommend this snorkelling tour, I booked it a few times and it never fails me! The itinerary includes key snorkelling spots as well as a quick trip to Nusa Penida.

Between mid June and August, it might be really busy, so try to book the earliest trip you possibly can so there will be fewer boats around the main spots!

(If you’re looking for more options, check out my guide on the best snorkelling experiences in Nusa Penida and top accommodations on the island if you want to stay overnight!)

Gili Islands:

Go to the Gili Islands for turtle spotting and underwater statues. This is would be a quicker trip compared to the one you would do in Nusa Penida because these islands are really close to each other and so are the snorkelling points.

Gili Trawangan is the most popular for snorkelling trips (check my detailed guide here), that is mainly because it’s the most touristy island as well as the biggest!

If you visit Gili Air instead, you can pretty much spot the turtles from a quick swim on the beach, so you don’t even need to book a trip! All you have to do is rent masks and fins anywhere on the beach.

➡️ I’ve done this tour by myself (and one time with my mum). It’s perfect because it includes all the key stops and you get to briefly see the 3 islands in 1 go too! This is ideal if you’re visiting for the first time.

💡 Pro tip: If you are visiting between June and August, it might get really crowded in the sea, to the point where you would literally see people’s feet rather than turtles. For this reason, I would seriously consider a private tour.

It’s definitely more expensive than a group trip, but if you are a snorkelling enthusiast and really want to enjoy your time in the sea, I would highly recommend it.

Amed:

Quite similarly to Gili Air, if you visit Amed, you can see corals and cute fish just from a quick swim!

But in case you want to see more, you can explore the Japanese Shipwreck and coral gardens. Amed is a great place to be regardless because it’s a lot less touristy than other spots in Bali. So you can really enjoy a great snorkelling tour in peace and quiet.

➡️ Check out this snorkelling tour in Amed, it’s only for 3 hours, but it covers the most beautiful spots that you would struggle to reach by yourself. During high season, you would pay around $30, which I think is pretty reasonable!

🛶 Other water sports in Bali

If you are looking for water sports needing complete flat water, head to Sanur. This is the best place for paddleboarding, jet ski and so on.

What about diving? Nusa and Gili Islands are the best options for that. They have fantastic schools with professional instructors!

#2 Go Island Hopping

Two people stand in shallow water watching the sun set over the horizon at Gili Trawangan. The golden reflection stretches across the calm sea while the exposed shoreline creates a peaceful foreground. — **Sunset in Gili Trawangan**

No more bumpy boat rides! It’s now the perfect time to explore Bali’s stunning nearby islands. I have to say each one is completely different from the other, so it really depends on what you are looking for and how much time you have available!

🌴 Gili Islands

How to get there: Take a fast boat from Padang Bai (around 2 hours) or Sanur. If you prefer flying, you can go from Bali to Lombok, drive to the harbour and take a short boat ride.

Why you should go: These islands look like paradise with their white sand beaches and being completely car-free.

Out of the 3, I prefer Gili Air! It’s not as busy as Gili Trawangan and the sunrises are insane. I also get a lot of work done because there are great cafes with stable wifi and a coworking space right by the sea.

🪸 Nusa Islands

How to get there: A 30-45 minute fast boat ride from Sanur takes you to Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, or Nusa Penida. ➡️ Check out 12Go for transport from Bali to the Nusa Islands!

Why you should go: Nusa Penida’s breathtaking Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong are must-sees. However, Nusa Lembongan is my favourite; it’s less busy, easy to navigate and it also offers mangrove tours.

🐊 Komodo Island

How to get there: Fly from Bali to Labuan Bajo (tickets on Skyscanner), then take a boat tour to Komodo National Park.

Boat tours are the most popular way to see the national park. They are also fun and totally safe for women travelling alone! ➡️ I would recommend booking this one. The boat is very clean and the staff super friendly as well as highly knowledgeable.

Why you should go: Home to the legendary Komodo dragons, this UNESCO-listed island also offers world-class diving, pink sand beaches, and dramatic landscapes.

🌺 Flores Island

How to get there: Fly from Bali to Labuan Bajo or Maumere (tickets on Skyscanner), then explore the island by car or boat.

Why you should go: Flores is rich in culture, waterfalls, and natural wonders like Kelimutu’s tri-colored volcanic lakes. It’s also a great starting point for exploring lesser-known islands and a different Indonesian culture.

#3 Check Out Bali’s Waterfalls!

Person stands waist deep in a natural pool beneath a tall waterfall cascading over dark rock walls covered in dense green tropical plants. The towering falls and lush vegetation create a dramatic jungle setting.

Summer is the last chance to see waterfalls at their best before they dry up. The trails are also easier to access than in the wet season.

I would recommend heading north to enjoy the local waterfalls in Munduk they are absolutely stunning.

From there, you should get a guide or drive to Sekempul Waterfalls because they are the tallest in Bali and you can’t miss them.

If you are not a confident hiker don’t worry because getting to these waterfalls it’s super easy (no need for hiking shoes). It might take a while depending on where you go but it’s an easy walk.

💡 Pro tip: Use AllTrails.com to check hikes and walks around the waterfalls, which you can do for free

If you want to stay near Ubud, check out Tibumana Waterfall. It’s a much smaller waterfall compared to the others, but it’s still worth it if you only have limited time.

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#4 Sunrise Hikes & Volcano Adventures

Sunrise casts warm light over a village surrounded by dense tropical trees, with rooftops peeking through the greenery. The low morning sun creates a soft glow across the landscape.

With clear summer skies, Bali’s sunrise treks are at their best. Here is a list of the most popular hikes in Bali:

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek:

A must-do solo-friendly hike with stunning views. You will see a spectacular sunrise from the top! This hike is beginner-friendly but it can get super busy, so make sure you go during week days or try to do it during shoulder season (like May or September).

➡️ Book the hike here. The guide is very experienced and will look after you for the entire trip. Also remember to bring some warm clothes as the top of Mt Batur is really cold during sunrise!

Mount Agung hike:

Go here only if you are an advanced hiker, the trails here are super hard! I’ve never done it before because I’m a beginner but I heard it’s a beautiful experience.

Mt Agung is the most fascinating landmark of Bali for me, I see it every day from Sanur and even all the way from Gili Air when I lived there.

The hiking tour here would be more expensive than Mt Batur because it’s less popular and you also need a more advanced guide. ➡️ Check this hiking tour to Mt Agung if you feel like trying!

Campuhan Ridge Walk (Ubud):

A short, scenic trail perfect for sunrise or sunset. Follow this guide step by step to find the entrance of the walk! This path is paved and super easy. It’s also family-friendly.

#5 Experience Bali’s Summer Events & Festivals

Colorful traditional kites soar above the beach during the Bali Kite Festival in Sanur, with festival structures and a line of trees along the shoreline below. The overcast sky makes the bright kites stand out as they drift overhead. — **Bali Kite Festival** **in Sanur**

Summer in Bali isn’t just about nature.. it’s also festival season. The kite festival being the biggest event of the year. Dry season is also wind season here in Bali so every child will have its own kite!

Bali Arts Festival (June – July): Traditional dance, music, and crafts in Denpasar.
Bali Kite Festival (July): Colourful kites take over the skies in Sanur.
Ubud Village Jazz Festival (August): A must for live music lovers.

Check local schedules to see if your trip aligns with these events. You will easily see flyers and boards promoting these festivals on the island!

#6 Relax At Beaches & Sunset Spots

Sunset over the lush jungle landscape at Sayan Point in Ubud, with layers of trees stretching toward the horizon. The sun glows beneath dramatic clouds, casting warm light across the valley. — **Sayan Point, Ubud**

Long summer days mean more time for beachside relaxation. You can spend a day on one of Bali’s most famous beaches and watch unforgettable sunsets!

🏖️ Best beaches in Bali:

Uluwatu – my favourite is Thomas Beach but check out the detailed list of best beaches in Uluwatu here!

Virgin Beach – if you are travelling towards Amed or anywhere east in Bali, stop at Virgin Beach because its probably the best preserved beach in Bali, easily swimmable and really beautiful!

Nusa Lembongan – this island has incredible beaches with white sand and it’s only a short ferry away from Sanur!

Nusa Dua – only 30 minutes away from Sanur, this beach is super clean and beautiful. I would recommend spending at least half a day on this beach!

Sanur Beach – while the beach is not that exciting, I love the vibe there. It’s super relaxing and it has great facilities. Check out things to do in Sanur in a day and get inspired!

🌅 Best sunset spots:

Uluwatu Temple – Watch the Kecak Fire Dance and watch the sunset at the same time. Itàs a fantastic experience!

Tanah Lot – Stunning sea temple views. This place is close to Canggu, I would recommend this spot if you are staying in the area!

Echo Beach, Canggu – Sunsets here are insane. I always get ice-cream at Gaya Gelato on my way to the beach and consume on the beach.

Sayan Point, Ubud – This restaurant has the best view over Ubud with an incredible sunset. You can’t miss it!

#7 Dine At Outdoor Cafés & Restaurants

Oceanfront dining terrace at Malini in Uluwatu overlooks dramatic cliffs and the sea as the sun sets over the water. Guests sit at wooden tables while waves roll in below, creating a scenic sunset view. — **Malini, Uluwatu**

Enjoy Bali’s best open-air dining spots in the dry season.

The Shady Shack (Canggu): Garden seating, great vegetarian options.
Malini (Uluwatu): Delicious seafood and insane sunset!
Nook (Seminyak): Relax with rice field views.
Clear Café (Ubud): Open-air bamboo design, healthy menu.
Warung Bambu Pemaron (Lovina): A hidden gem with a lush setting and authentic Balinese cuisine.

# 8 Best Relaxing Activities to Book in Summer

If you’re looking for a slower pace, summer is the perfect time to enjoy mindful activities. Here are some of the best activities to do in Bali:

🍳 Cooking Classes – Learn to make traditional Balinese dishes with local chefs. Most of the classes are based in Ubud and involve going briefly to the market too. Indonesian food is delicious and you will want to know how to recreate those flavours once you go back home!

My favourite dishes are Soto Ayam (chicken soup), Bakso (meatball soup) and Dadar Gulung (rolled coconut pancakes). Joining these classes it’s also a nice way to meet other solo travellers and they are genually fun!

➡️ Reserve your spot here! This cooking class is amazing, it also includes lunch and hot drinks. What I like the most abuot this class is that you can choose vegetarian/vegan options too, perfect for my family and friends with different food requirements!

🧘🏽 Yoga Classes – Join a yoga session in Ubud or Canggu, perfect for solo travellers. You can also join one of the many yoga retreats in Ubud or surf and yoga camps in Bali.

🛕 Cultural experiences in Ubud – Oh yes, there is plenty to do in Ubud from visiting temples to Jewelry classes… Check out the best experiences in this blog post.

📝 Don’t forget to grab my free Bali Travel Checklist! It’s a must-have for first-time visitors, covering all the essentials you need to avoid common mistakes and travel stress-free.

Where to Stay: Best Summer Hotels for Solo Travellers

Bali’s summer season means higher demand, so booking early is key.

➡️ Tribal Bali (Canggu) – Coworking, social events, and a pool.

➡️ Karma Backpackers (Uluwatu) – Social vibe, close to beaches.

➡️ Arya Wellness (Ubud, women-only) – Yoga, pool, and outdoor lounge.

Essential Summer Travel Tips for Bali

Now that you know what are the coolest things to do in Bali during the summer, make sure you follow these tips below so that you can fully enjoy your trip without any hiccups!

✔️ Stay hydrated: The heat can be intense, so bring a reusable water bottle.

✔️ Pack sunscreen & mosquito repellent: Essential for all outdoor activities.

✔️ Rent a scooter or use Grab: Traffic can be heavy; scooters help you move faster. Use Bikeago.com if you want to rent your scooter!

✔️ Travel insurance: Super important; make sure you are fully covered before even flying to Bali I’ve been using Safety Wing for a while and it’s pretty affordable!

✔️ Book key activities in advance: Popular tours fill up quickly.

✔️ Use my free travel checklist: Download my Bali Travel Checklist Freebie to make sure you’re fully prepared for your trip.

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FAQs On Visiting Bali

Where should a solo traveller go in Bali?

Bali has plenty of places that work well for solo travellers. Ubud is great for culture, yoga, and waterfalls, while Canggu has surfing, coworking spaces, and nightlife. Uluwatu is known for its beaches and cliffside views, and Sanur offers a quieter area with easy access to the Nusa Islands. Check out my 10 day itinerary here to get inspired!

I’m a solo traveller. How should I plan a trip to Nusa Penida, Bali?

You can visit Nusa Penida as a day trip or stay overnight. Boats leave from Sanur to the island, and it’s best to book in advance. The west side of the island includes Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach, while the east side has Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach, and Thousand Islands Viewpoint. Renting a scooter is an option, but the roads can be rough, so hiring a driver is safer. Check out the most unique places to stay in Nusa Penida if you are looking for the coolest accommodation on the island!

Which is the best place to relax and chill with friends in Bali?

For a laid-back day, beach clubs in Uluwatu and Canggu are popular. Sundays Beach Club (Uluwatu) has a private beach with sunset bonfires, and La Brisa (Canggu) has a casual setup by the sea. If you prefer something quieter, Amed and Lovina have calm waters and fewer crowds. Ubud is also a good option with its cafés, yoga studios, and outdoor lounges.

What should you pay attention to when travelling to Bali in the summer?

Crowds – This is high season, so booking accommodation and transport early is recommended.
Sun exposure – Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Hydration – Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid drinking tap water.
Traffic – Roads can be busy, especially in Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud, so using Grab scooters or renting a bike can help with getting around.
Beach conditions – Some beaches have strong currents, so check safety signs before swimming.
Temple etiquette – Wear a sarong and cover your shoulders when visiting religious sites.

Where should I stay in Bali for the first time?

For first-time visitors, it’s best to stay in an area with good transport links and plenty of things to do. Definitely Ubud, Sanur and Uluwatu to start with! Check out my full first-timers guide here ❤️

Are You Ready?

Bali in summer is a dream for solo travellers, offering the best weather, outdoor activities, and social opportunities. Make sure you book everything in advance as prices can really sore very quickly and get my free checklist so you won’t forget anything when planning your trip to Bali!

Ciao for now,

Silvia x