Is Bali Worth Visiting in 2026? A Luxury Honeymoon Guide

Why Bali remains a top honeymoon destination

Even with its popularity, Bali continues to attract couples from around the world. It’s not just the beaches, pool villas and lush rice terraces – it’s the way the island effortlessly blends romance, adventure and luxury.

Since working as a travel agent, I’ve had so many enquiries from couples wanting to go to Bali. It’s an island with so much to see and do so there are countless ways to create unforgettable memories together.

In 2026, I predict that we’ll still see lots of honeymooners and couples wanting to go to Bali. It’s such a strong contender if you want a tropical getaway where you can experience luxury at a really decent price.

Bali at a glance – 2026 key facts

Pros of visiting Bali

Bali remains one of the world’s most captivating destinations, offering an incredible mix of natural beauty, culture and luxury experiences. Here are my key reasons why a visit to Bali could be right for you – especially if you’re planning a honeymoon or a romantic escape!

1 Bali has breathtaking scenery

There’s no denying just how beautiful the rural scenery is in Bali. Volcanoes, rice fields, waterfalls, jungles  – Bali has a whole load of natural wonders. 

It’s not hard to see why this destination is an Instagram dream when its landscapes are this picture-perfect (especially away from some of the main tourist spots). If you love nature, Bali is an amazing island to photograph and explore.

If you’re on your honeymoon, Bali offers such an impressive backdrop. You’ll be able to enjoy quiet mornings watching the sunrise over Mount Agung, or taking a romantic stroll along a black-sand beach. Even short drives across the island reveal the most beautiful scenery – from hidden waterfalls and cliffside views to lush jungles and rice paddies.

RELATED: Uluwatu or Ubud? Where’s Best to Stay in Bali?

There are also so many incredible hotels that make the most of nature. If you love the idea of being surrounded by tropical scenery, there’s probably a lot you’ll like about Bali! 

2 Bali has a rich cultural heritage

Bali has a rich, colourful and unique culture that’s evident everywhere you look on the island. I really loved this aspect of our visit – it was unlike anywhere else I’d been at the time. 

The culture is as vibrant as the landscapes. You’ll be able to witness traditional ceremonies at centuries-old temples, explore art markets in Ubud, and watch Balinese dance performances that have been passed down for generations.

Most of Indonesia is Muslim, but Balinese culture is rooted in Hinduism. Across the streets, you’ll see little handmade offerings to the gods. There are also numerous temples, gorgeous cultural sites and ceremonies taking place. It’s a great destination for culture lovers.

3 Bali offers luxury at a reasonable price

Bali is incredible for luxury travellers – but it’s also brilliant for travellers who want to experience luxury at a much smaller price tag!

One of the best things about Bali is its accommodation options. Bali has no shortage of amazing resorts, hotels and villas. Many of the high-end options have honeymooners and couples in mind – they’re super dreamy and totally bucket list worthy.

The island offers world-class resorts and private villas with infinity pools and the most amazing views. Many resorts also include spa retreats, yoga pavilions, and private dining experiences that allow you to unwind in style while enjoying unparalleled privacy.

READ MORE: 21 Best Romantic Hotels in Bali for Honeymooners

The best part is – there are plenty of affordable luxury options, too. Lots of mid-range resorts and villas have gorgeous rooms, private pools or stunning scenery to make the most of.

We stayed in a huge villa in Bali with a roof terrace and private pool for about £100 per night. We also had a 4-star hotel in Kuta for one night and that was £30. 

Some well-rated accommodation options to check out in Bali are:

$ Kalyssa Beach Bungalows ⭐️ 9.4 / 10
$$ Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa ⭐️ 9.1 / 10
$$ Theanna Villa and Spa Canggu ⭐️ 9.6 / 10
$$ Sun Suko Boutique Resort & Yoga Retreat ⭐️ 9.6 / 10
$$$ The Royal Purnama ⭐️ 9.5 / 10
$$$$ Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan ⭐️ 9.4 / 10
$$$$ Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve ⭐️ 9.7 / 10
$$$$ COMO Shambhala Estate ⭐️ 9.8 / 10

4 There’s lots to see & do in Bali

For a small destination (and unlike some other tropical destinations), Bali offers visitors so much to see and do with so many bucket list attractions. 

Whether you want to go volcano trekking and hiking, visit cultural attractions, join a yoga retreat overlooking rice terraces or have a chilled-out beach escape, Bali ticks the right boxes. 

It’s also a great option if you want to combine adventure with relaxation and there’s something that most people will love. So if you can’t decide where to go – Bali is a good bet.

🌟 Looking for more must-do experiences? Check out my Bali bucket list for a complete guide to the island’s top activities and hidden gems.

5 Bali has brilliant food options

I’m a big fan of trying local dishes when I’m travelling and my trip to Bali was no exception. Traditional Balinese food is delish (especially satay sauce 🤤)

Bali also has an amazing food scene away from the traditional Balinese cuisine. There are SO many great restaurants and cafes in Bali that it’s a food lover’s paradise. Plus, it’s the original home of the floating breakfast!

It’s also one of the best destinations for vegans and veggies with a thriving plant-based scene. You’ll find so many cute, boho cafes and Instagrammable brunch spots so you’ll never go hungry!

6 Bali is a great wellness destination 

One of my favourite things about Bali is its incredible wellness scene. For couples seeking mindfulness, yoga and spiritual retreats, the island is a true haven.

If that’s your vibe, you’ll find like-minded travelers and communities drawn to the same experiences. It’s a great destination for connecting with similar people.

Because of its link to wellness, many resorts have an incredible spa and health offering with world-class facilities. Even outside resorts, Bali is dotted with day spas and salons that are affordable but indulgent! It’s a dream destination for a pampering romantic break.

7 Bali has a cool and laid-back vibe 

Bali’s nightlife is a mix of lively beach clubs and stylish bars rather than the full-on party atmosphere that you might find in Thailand.

It’s definitely possible to have a big night out and a beach party in Bali, but there are also lots of laid-back vibes so it’s a good island if you prefer more of a relaxed evening of socialising. 

Beach clubs like Potato Head and Finns are popular. These are perfect places to chill out, enjoy some drinks and relax in a dreamy location.

8 Bali is a good beach destination

Bali isn’t the best beach destination in Asia, but it still deserves a good mention. Bali’s beaches are cool and laid-back and are a great spot for relaxing and watching the sunset – especially at one of the island’s beach clubs.

You’ll also find amazing surf spots in Bali (it has some of the best surf in Southeast Asia). Plus, if you’re a water lover, you’ll be able to go diving and try lots of water activities around the island.

You’re also within easy reach of some other destinations in Indonesia that have nice beaches – like Nusa Penida, the Gili Islands and Lombok.

9 Bali has friendly locals 

If you’re after great hospitality and friendly locals, you can’t go wrong with Bali. Balinese people are so friendly, kind and welcoming!

The people we met were helpful and positive, and this is something that really plays a part in how good your trip is!

10 Bali is affordable

Bali is an affordable destination, which is probably one of the reasons why it’s so popular. This makes it an obvious budget-friendly option, but it’s also a great place for experiencing luxury travel.

Even though prices are rising, they’re still generally low. This means you’ll be able to stay in high-end hotels at much more affordable prices than you would in places like Australia, the US or Western Europe.

If you’re dreaming of an extra special Southeast Asia honeymoon – Bali ticks the right boxes! Even with a smaller budget, it’s possible to have a high-end, bucket list time in Bali. And if you have a decent budget – you’ll be spoilt for choice with the best of the best.

Cons of visiting Bali

As magical as Bali is, there are still some reasons not to go to Bali. Obviously, with any destination there will be downsides and some of these things apply to lots of places – not just Bali. However, this is what I noticed or didn’t like about Bali and hopefully it will give you realistic expectations (and time to prepare so you can potentially avoid them).

1 Bali is overtouristed

I want to start with the obvious – Bali is overtouristed. There are no two ways about this. This small Indonesian island sees millions of foreign tourists visiting every year and with that comes problems.

Bali’s popularity means that many of its most famous spots – like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud – can feel crowded, especially during peak travel months. Busy beaches, traffic, and higher prices can take away from the island’s beauty.

If you’re seeking privacy, I recommend looking for luxury resorts in quieter areas like Sidemen or Uluwatu where you can still experience Bali’s beauty without the busyness.

Tourism is one of those things that’s tricky to balance. Places like Bali need tourism to thrive (just look at what happened during the pandemic when borders were forced to close!). 

But too much tourism has the opposite effect and can impact locals, damage the environment, reduce water supplies and take away a destination’s authenticity.

One of the biggest problems is that overtourism causes price rises that displace and shut locals out.

With so much growth in the tourism sector in Bali, a lot of land has been destroyed to create new hotels, villas and buildings in favour of tourists and digital nomads. 

Not only has this damaged the environment, but it’s also leading to economic inequality where locals are being outbid for housing by wealthy foreigners.

2 There are environmental concerns in Bali

While Bali is stunning, it still faces ongoing issues with waste management, pollution and plastic use – especially in tourist-heavy zones. The government and many resorts are taking steps to improve sustainability, but the problem isn’t fully solved yet.

If you choose to visit, I suggest choosing eco-friendly accommodations that use sustainable practices.

3 Bali has lost some of its authenticity

Because there are so many tourists, digital nomads and influencers visiting or living in Bali, the island has lost a lot of its charm. 

Many of the main attractions (like the waterfalls, beautiful rice terraces and monkey forest) are crowded with tourists so it’s no longer a place that’s “off-the-beaten-track”, unique or peaceful. 

This means that some of the traveller experience is lost and can detract from the magic of the destination.

You also won’t get so many hidden gems. And, if you stick to the main tourist sites, it will be difficult to find the slice of heaven that you might initially be imagining of Bali!

If you want to see a more authentic side of Bali, I suggest staying away from the main tourist areas. Currently, northern Bali with places like Munduk and Sidemen are less touristy.

Overtourism is also causing a loss of cultural heritage in Bali. This is really sad for locals and for people who want to experience Bali’s real traditions and authenticity.

Bali’s culture is deeply spiritual, and visitors are expected to respect local customs. A good thing is that in 2025, new regulations were enforced with harsher penalties for tourists if they break the law or don’t act appropriately.

4 Bali has dangerous roads + traffic

Bali’s roads are shockingly bad. In tourist areas like Canggu and Kuta, the traffic is chaotic and massively congested. 

Some of this is due to increased tourist numbers but roads aren’t well maintained or developed in Bali either.

There’s a reason why you hear of tourists getting into road accidents in Bali. If you’re not a confident driver or happy on a scooter, it’s best to give it a miss in Bali. It’s not hard to see how dangerous it can be.

My recommendation would be to hire a private driver for day trips (they’re surprisingly affordable). Many luxury resorts also offer shuttle services or private transfers.

5 Bali has limited public transport

There are no trains in Bali and the buses can be slow and not always worth the effort. Most people in Bali rent scooters, get taxis (or Grab) or hire a driver to travel around. 

This isn’t always a bad thing, but if you’re uncomfortable with the thought of riding a scooter, you could also be at a disadvantage in Bali since this is a lot of people’s preferred way to travel.

6 Bali is polluted

When we visited Bali, I was shocked by the pollution. I’d expected pristine beaches like I’d seen in Thailand or Fiji, but this just wasn’t the case. 

It might have been because it was the rainy season, but across the beaches in Bali there was a lot of plastic pollution that had washed up on the shores. It really took away from the idyllic island vibes I’d been imagining.

RELATED: Best Ecotourism Destinations to Visit on Honeymoon 

If you’ve been wondering is Bali dirty, then unfortunately, yes some (but not all) of it can seem to be. If you’re dreaming of Bali specifically for its beaches, I’d honestly recommend going elsewhere.

There are some nice beaches in Bali (especially in Uluwatu), but other places in Southeast Asia have much better options in my opinion!

RELATED: Bali or Thailand: Which is Better for a Honeymoon?

There’s also a LOT of traffic as well as a ton of building work in Bali causing fumes and noise pollution. I recommend checking Tripadvisor reviews before booking your accommodation in Bali – you’ll be able to see if any previous travellers have written complaints about the noise.

7 Bali has health considerations

Bali is generally safe for travellers, but it’s worth being mindful of a few health-related issues before you go. I can’t give medical advice, but it’s probably a good idea to be up to date with vaccinations and medicines before going on a long-haul trip.  

There’s currently rabies and dengue fever in Bali, and a lot of visitors get “Bali Belly” due to changes in food, water and hygiene standards.

My tip is to choose good quality accommodation, drink bottled or filtered water, and use insect repellent – especially during the rainy season! 

8 Bali isn’t nearby

This doesn’t apply to everyone, but if you’re travelling from Europe or the US, Bali is a really long way away!

It might not be a key consideration in whether Bali is worth visiting, because a lot of tropical destinations ARE far away. But, Bali doesn’t currently have direct flights from Europe or the US like some other destinations in Southeast Asia do.

This means airfares can be more expensive and it probably won’t be a fun day of travel with layovers and multiple flights.

Is Bali overrated or overhyped?

There’s a lot of talk about Bali and eye rolls from people who think it’s overrated. But it really depends on what you’re looking for from your trip to say whether it’s somewhere you’ll love or not!

For a lot of people, Bali is a great place for a laid-back tropical escape in the sun. Especially for Australians, it’s an easy getaway. And for some visitors, the draw of Bali isn’t its culture, authenticity and nature.

Some people go to Bali simply because they want great weather, sunny beaches and time off work to chill out.

I love a resort-style, relaxed getaway, but I also love getting a glimpse into local life when I travel. I like the adventure, the different culture and seeing how things are different from back home.

Because of that, there were places in Bali that I thought were overrated. I didn’t like Kuta for example because it felt too touristy.

That said, Bali isn’t just made up of its famous tourist sites and I don’t think it’s fair to say it’s all overrated or not worth visiting.

Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu and Ubud are the go-to places for most visitors, but there are loads of other places you could explore or stay in instead.

If you’re wondering: is Bali still worth visiting if it’s all full of crowds? North Bali is (currently) much quieter than many of the places in the south of the island.

So if you want more of a secluded, authentic getaway, this could be completely perfect for you! Or if you want a wellness break or an ultra-luxury Bali honeymoon, there are high-end hotels that are tucked away from the backpacker crowd. 

Ultimately – I think a trip to Bali can be whatever you want to make of it!

Best areas to stay in Bali for couples

What I love about Bali is that it offers something for every couple. You have serene jungle hideaways, private pool villas as well as cool beach escapes. If you’re still considering Bali, these are the best places I’d suggest staying:

• Ubud: Ubud is nestled in the jungle so it’s the perfect spot if you want beautiful accommodation overlooking rice terraces. It’s also an amazing place for luxurious spa retreats and culture.

• Uluwatu: Uluwatu is on the south coast and is known for its dramatic cliffs and world-class surf. In this area, you’ll find some of Bali’s most breathtaking ocean-view resorts. It’s more of an isolated, upscale area.

• Seminyak: If you want beaches, high-end resorts, as well as shopping and nightlife, Seminyak is a good bet. It’s one of the busier parts of Bali but there are nice resorts where you can mix relaxation with things to do.

• Canggu: Canggu is one of the most popular parts of Bali – especially for digital nomads and backpackers. This is a trendy area where you’ll get stylish villas and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.

• Munduk: Munduk is currently one of Bali’s quieter spots. It’s a picturesque place in the mountains of northern Bali – it’s a gorgeous place to stay if you want a more authentic experience with a big focus on nature.

• Jimbaran: Jimbaran is known for having luxury villas and resorts. It’s close to the airport so I recommend it if you want somewhere quiet to stay at the end of your Bali holiday. 

💕 Looking for the perfect place to stay? Don’t miss my guide to the 21 Best Romantic Hotels in Bali for Honeymooners – featuring private villas, ocean-view suites, and hidden luxury retreats.

Practical tips for visiting Bali

Here are my top tips to help you make the most of your stay in Bali:

• Respect local customs: You’ll want to dress modestly at temples and sacred sites in Bali. Make sure you pack accordingly with loose trousers and t-shirts that cover your shoulders. 

• Use reliable transport: If you’re not confident on the roads, I recommend hiring a private driver or choosing licensed taxis or organised tours to get around.

• Plan visits during off-peak times: If you want a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) are better for avoiding the crowds and having a more relaxed atmosphere. I went to Bali in the rainy season (March) and still enjoyed it so that’s an option, too!

• Support local businesses: Booking excursions with family-run companies and supporting local businesses keeps your money in the community. It also gives you a more authentic experience.

Is Bali worth visiting FAQs

Final verdict: Is Bali worth it?

So, after all that – is Bali still worth visiting in 2026??  The answer is… it depends on what you’re looking for.

Bali is absolutely worth visiting if it’s your first time. There’s no denying that Bali is absolutely beautiful and has so much to offer.

With beaches, lush jungles, and rich culture it’s a versatile destination that appeals to so many people. Bali is also a great place to explore if you’re new to longer-haul travel and want somewhere that’s a bit more tourist-friendly.

Plus, the island has some of the most beautiful and romantic accommodations so it’s a brilliant option if you want to go all-out on honeymoon. 

That said, Bali may not be for everyone. Even though there’s lots to love, I don’t currently have plans to revisit the island. There are similar places to Bali that I think I would prefer to visit instead right now. However, I probably will return at some point.

Popular areas can be crowded in Bali and if you want a completely off-the-beaten-path adventure, other destinations might suit you better.

However, if Bali IS on your bucket list and you’re mindful about how you travel, it’s still a good choice and somewhere that’s worth experiencing for yourself.

After all – your vacation is what YOU make of it and there’s still magic to be found in Bali.

Those are my thoughts – what are yours? Is it worth visiting Bali? Reach out and let me know!

Still unsure about Bali? Here are 25 similar places like Bali that you could visit instead.

READ MORE:

• Bali Bucket List: 33 Best Things to Do in Bali
• Uluwatu or Ubud? Where’s Best to Stay in Bali?
• Bali or Thailand: Which is Better?
• Bali vs Fiji: Which Is the Best Vacation Spot?
• Best Honeymoon Destinations in Southeast Asia
• 21 Best Romantic Hotels in Bali for Couples
• 15 Best Things to Do in Bali When It Rains
• Best 3 Week Bali Itinerary

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