Free things to do in Bali: 20 beaches, walks, temples and markets that cost little or nothing

A lot of what makes Bali worth visiting costs little or nothing: public beaches, walking routes, temples that ask only for a donation, viewpoints and markets that are free to browse. Parking, a sarong, a guide or a ticket at some sites can add small costs, so check at the gate. Here are twenty ideas, grouped by type.

Beaches

• Kuta Beach: A long sandy beach facing west with regular surf, bordered by the urban areas of Kuta and Legian.
• Seminyak Beach: A west-facing sandy beach north of Legian, next to the Seminyak coastal district.
• Echo Beach: A black volcanic sand beach in Canggu with reef breaks and sunset views.
• Pererenan Beach: A west-facing beach north of Canggu with dark volcanic sand, reef breaks and open sea views.
• Sanur Beach: A beach area on the southeast side of Denpasar with a reef-protected sea area and a paved beachfront path, a walk that suits sunrise.
• Balangan Beach: A sandy beach on the western side of the Bukit Peninsula near Jimbaran, bordered by limestone cliffs.
• Jimbaran Beach: A curved sandy bay facing west toward the Indian Ocean, next to Jimbaran fishing village.

Walks and viewpoints

• Campuhan Ridge Walk: A walking route along a ridge above the Campuhan river valley in Ubud, through grassland, palms and rural settlements with views across the hills.
• Sidemen Valley: A rural landscape in eastern Bali with terraced rice fields, plantations, villages and walking routes with views toward Mount Agung.
• Bukit Jambul Viewpoint: A roadside hilltop viewpoint in Karangasem looking over rice terraces, hills, valleys and the distant sea.
• Puncak Wanagiri: A highland viewpoint on the road through northern Bali overlooking Lake Buyan, Lake Tamblingan and the forested hills.
• Lovina Dolphin Statue: A beachfront landmark in Lovina near the coastal zone where dolphin-watching trips depart.

Temples to visit respectfully

• Pura Petitenget: A Hindu temple on the Seminyak coast with traditional shrines, connected with local ceremonies. Dress modestly and follow the guidance at the gate.
• Pura Taman Saraswati: A temple in central Ubud dedicated to Saraswati, known for its lotus pond, carved gateways and performance setting.
• Pura Gunung Lebah: A Hindu temple in the Campuhan River valley, reached by a stone-paved path from Jalan Raya and surrounded by dense valley greenery.
• Pura Dalem Ubud: A Hindu temple in the centre of Ubud with courtyards, shrines, gates and stone carvings, connected with local ceremonies.

Markets and evening food

• Ubud Art Market: A central market near Ubud Palace with stalls selling handmade crafts, woven goods, clothing, baskets and carvings.
• Sindhu Night Market: An evening market on Jalan Pungutan in Sanur selling food and local goods.
• Pasar Senggol Gianyar: A market in the town of Gianyar associated with evening food stalls, local produce and household goods.
• Love Anchor: An indoor and outdoor bazaar in central Canggu selling clothing, jewellery, souvenirs and homeware, open late into the evening.