25 Best Places Like Bali (With Fewer Crowds!)
If you’re searching for the best places like Bali, you’re in the right place! Bali is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. It’s a gorgeous island, but it’s hugely overtouristed.
Bali is known for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture and laid-back wellness scene… It has a ton to offer so it’s not surprising that so many people flock there.
I loved Bali when I visited, but mass tourism has become a huge problem – causing higher prices, affecting locals and damaging the environment in the process.
So, if you want to avoid the crowds and find some of the best alternatives to Bali, I’ve got you covered! Although nowhere can completely compare, these places like Bali have plenty of similarities and are well worth adding to your bucket list.
Best Bali alternatives
1 Sri Lanka
First on the list of places like Bali is Sri Lanka. This island country off the coast of India is a tropical paradise with many similarities to Bali.
You’ll be able to find sweeping golden beaches, breathtaking rural scenery and incredible cultural sites in Sri Lanka. It’s also a destination that’s amazing for wildlife with national parks that are perfect for a safari.
Whatever your interests, there’s so much to love about Sri Lanka! It’s also a destination with some of the most beautiful, luxury accommodation and the prices are pretty great too!
As one of the world’s most picturesque and culture-rich locations, Sri Lanka has so much to offer. It’s a real bucket list destination… but somehow it isn’t as popular as Bali.
Tourists are actually needed to help Sri Lanka recover from Covid and its economic crisis. So if you want a more authentic experience than Bali, this is a country that needs to be on your list!
📸 Things to see & do in Sri Lanka: Visit temples & cultural sites, ride the scenic Ella to Kandy train, visit a tea plantation, go hiking, relax at a wellness retreat, go surfing, go on safari
Best time to visit: December to March
Where to stay: Uga Ulagalla
2 Thailand
As two of the top destinations in Southeast Asia, Thailand and Bali are often compared. They share a lot of similarities, so Thailand’s a great alternative if you don’t want to go to Bali.
Thailand is a country rather than an island, so it has loads to offer. There are diverse areas to explore and quieter spots you could visit as well.
Across Thailand, you’ll find gorgeous natural settings that definitely rival Bali’s. There’s SO much to fall in love with – from lush rural scenery and mountains in the north to breathtaking national parks and pristine beaches.
One of my favourite spots is Khao Sok National Park with its lake, jungle and limestone cliffs. It’s a beautiful place if you want to experience nature like you can in Bali.
You’ll also find temples, bustling cities and paradise islands across Thailand. Islands like Phuket, Koh Tao and Koh Samui are brilliant places like Bali in Asia.
These islands are known for being vibrant and beautiful with a similar vibe to Bali. You’ll get beach parties, white sands (in my opinion the beaches are way better than Bali’s!!) as well as plenty to see and do.
What I also love about Thailand is that – like Bali – there are places where you can stay at some of the world’s best wellness retreats and luxury resorts.
📸 Things to see & do in Thailand: Relax at the beach, see temples, enjoy the nightlife, visit an elephant sanctuary, go snorkelling & diving, go island hopping, book a Thai massage
Best time to visit: November to March
Where to stay: Rayavadee
3 Fiji
Fiji is a tropical destination that epitomises paradise. It’s an isolated country made up of over 300 islands in the South Pacific and it has all the best landscapes and scenery. It’s a picture-perfect destination that’s just as worth visiting as Bali.
The beaches and coral reefs are the main reason people visit Fiji. In my opinion, Fiji’s beaches are significantly better than Bali’s. Fiji’s islands have some of the world’s best beaches… But, there’s loads more to this destination, too!
READ MORE: Best 12-Day Fiji Island Hopping Itinerary
As one of the best places to visit like Bali, Fiji also has lush landscapes, great hiking spots and wild rural scenery.
The country’s third largest island, Taveuni, is an amazing choice if you want idyllic Bali vibes – it’s an eco paradise with rainforests, waterfalls and so much natural beauty.
Compared to Bali, Fiji is a much more chilled-out destination. It has a lot fewer tourists so it’s also ideal if you want a peaceful and romantic escape.
READ MORE: Where to Stay in Fiji for First Timers (Best Areas in Fiji Guide)
📸 Things to see & do in Fiji: Relax at the beach, go island hopping, join cultural experiences, visit traditional villages, go diving & snorkelling, take boat trips, go hiking
Best time to visit: May to October
Where to stay: Six Senses Fiji
4 Lombok, Indonesia
Bali isn’t the only destination in Indonesia that’s worth visiting. As a country made up of thousands of islands, there are lots of places in Indonesia that have a similar offering to Bali… minus the crowds!
Lombok is one of the closest islands to Bali and is an amazing place to visit. Thanks to its location, it’s one of the best places like Bali in Indonesia – you can expect the same breathtaking scenery that Bali is known for.
You’ll be able to explore waterfalls, beaches and incredible volcanic landscapes. And – you’ll have a lot more space to enjoy it all.
As a much quieter destination than Bali, Lombok has a slightly different vibe. It’s a lot more relaxed and is less developed so it feels more authentic. It could be your perfect destination if you want a back-to-nature, Bali-style getaway that feels peaceful and secluded!
📸 Things to see & do in Lombok: Chase waterfalls, go hiking, see rice terraces, go volcano trekking, relax at the beach, try surfing, take a boat trip
Best time to visit: April to September
Where to stay: The Oberoi Beach Resort, Lombok
5 Kerala, India
Known for its beaches, backwaters and amazing Ayurvedic wellness retreats, Kerala is one of the best places like Bali in India! It’s a destination that’s exotic, unique and offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Like Bali, Kerala has gorgeous diverse landscapes as well as a rich and vibrant culture with loads to see and do. It’s also a foodie paradise.
As a destination that’s known for its natural beauty, Kerala is a really great choice for a chilled-out trip. You’ll find nature resorts, luxury beach hotels and secluded wellness retreats.
You can also stay in a traditional Alleppey houseboat surrounded by lush scenery.
If you want to immerse yourself in local culture, Kerala also ticks the right boxes. It’s a place where you’ll be able to experience an incredible mix of culture and traditions.
📸 Things to see & do in Kerala: Cruise the backwaters, go tea tasting, relax at a spa, join a cooking class, relax at the beach, spot wildlife in Periyar National Park
Best time to visit: November to March
Where to stay: Taj Green Cove Resort and Spa Kovalam
6 St Lucia
St Lucia is known for being one of the most romantic islands in the Caribbean and is a destination that’s synonymous with honeymoons.
As well as having some of the most beautiful palm-fringed beaches, St Lucia is a nature paradise with lush dramatic scenery that matches Bali’s.
There are loads of breathtaking natural spots in St Lucia with untouched rainforests and nature reserves, waterfalls and mountains. You’ll also find volcanic landscapes as well as mineral mud baths and hot springs.
Compared to Bali, St Lucia is definitely a more expensive, luxury option. But, that means it’s perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime getaway.
You’ll also find incredible, romantic resorts and fewer tourists so you’ll get plenty of privacy.
📸 Things to see & do in St Lucia: Hike the Piton Mountains, relax in hot springs, enjoy the beach, explore rainforests, go birdwatching, go scuba diving & snorkelling, take a sunset cruise, chase waterfalls
Best time to visit: December to April
Where to stay: Jade Mountain
7 Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi in Malaysia is a good bet if you want all the tropical vibes of Bali but in a much quieter setting. Langkawi is a paradise destination made up of 99 islands, so you’ll find beautiful sandy beaches and lots of nature.
Langkawi is a great destination if you want to relax on the beach or go island hopping. But it’s also known for its wildlife so you’ll find mangrove forests, mountainous jungles and waterfalls to explore, too.
If you love the idea of Bali’s cool beach bars, you’ll also find similar in Langkawi. Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach area where you can lounge on a beanbag and enjoy a drink at sunset.
Or, if you want to get away from it all and keep to yourself, you’ll also find dreamy accommodation that’s secluded and luxurious. They’re the perfect setting for a private retreat.
📸 Things to see & do in Langkawi: Ride the SkyCab cable car & visit the SkyBridge, take a mangrove tour, go island hopping, visit night markets, relax at the beach
Best time to visit: November to April
Where to stay: The Datai Langkawi
8 Madeira, Portugal
There aren’t many places like Bali in Europe, but Madeira is one of the exceptions. Part of Portugal, but closer to the coast of Northern Africa, Madeira is a gorgeous volcanic island that has a ton to offer.
Known as the Hawaii of Europe, Madeira has some of the most breathtaking scenery that definitely rivals Bali’s.
It’s an incredible destination for exploring – you’ll find stunning wild scenery with jaw-dropping natural spots.
A trip to Madeira is largely focused on nature and hiking and you’ll find beautiful trails across diverse landscapes.
Similarly to Bali, it’s also a destination that’s great for surfing and scuba diving as well as whale and dolphin watching. It definitely needs to be on your list as a top place like Bali if you want a back-to-nature escape!
📸 Things to see & do in Madeira: Join a whale & dolphin watching tour, go hiking, dip in natural swimming pools, go surfing & scuba diving, explore the city of Funchal
Best time to visit: April to October
Where to stay: Quinta Jardins do Lago
9 Costa Rica
It’s not hard to see why Costa Rica is one of the best places like Bali. This gorgeous country is a lush, natural paradise with beaches, jungles and volcanoes.
It’s also an incredible wellness destination with loads of yoga and spiritual retreats.
Nature is the big draw of a visit to Costa Rica. It’s one of the world’s best ecotourism destinations with a number of national parks and nature reserves. It’s a picture-perfect place to explore.
You’ll find loads to see and do if you visit – from volcano trekking and wildlife watching to jungle zip-lining. Like Bali, Costa Rica is also an amazing destination for surfing. Plus, you’ll find beach bars if all you want to do is relax.
In Costa Rica, you can also stay in a rainforest eco lodge, which will be just as heavenly as a Balinese villa.
📸 Things to see & do in Costa Rica: Go volcano trekking, go jungle zip-lining & canyoning, learn to surf, go wildlife watching, chase waterfalls, join a wellness retreat, relax on the beach
Best time to visit: November to April
Where to stay: Makanda by The Sea Hotel
10 Seychelles
If you’re dreaming of a secluded island paradise, the Seychelles needs to be top of your list of places to go like Bali. This remote destination is made up of 115 islands and is a heavenly option for beach lovers.
Admittedly, the Seychelles doesn’t have every likeness of Bali, but it’s still on the list because of its incredible scenery!
As well as some of the world’s most stunning beaches, you’ll also find nature reserves, marine parks and breathtaking landscapes.
There’s a big focus on wildlife and nature so it’s a top choice if you want space to get away from it all.
Because the Seychelles has so many islands, it’s great if you want to go island hopping. It also means you’ll be able to find somewhere with a lot more privacy.
As a destination that’s a lot more expensive than Bali, it’s a really great option for a luxury honeymoon.
📸 Things to see & do in the Seychelles: Go island hopping, enjoy pristine beaches, go snorkelling, see giant tortoises, try sea kayaking, visit nature reserves, take boat trips
Best time to visit: April to May & October to November
Where to stay: North Island
11 Sumba, Indonesia
Despite being close to Bali, Sumba island is an untouched destination in Indonesia. This unspoilt and largely under-visited place is packed with natural wonders so it’s a fantastic alternative to Bali.
This remote paradise is all kinds of perfect and in my opinion has everything you could want from an island getaway!
It’s very similar to Bali with lots for every type of traveller to experience – from gorgeous palm-fringed beaches and crystal clear waters to jungles and tumbling waterfalls.
There’s little in the way of development in Sumba so it’s an amazing choice if you want a quiet experience away from the hordes of crowds.
There’s also a big focus on tradition and culture in Sumba. And unlike Bali which is very tourist-focused, Sumba feels more authentic and special!
📸 Things to see & do in Sumba: Visit traditional villages, go surfing, see beautiful landscapes & waterfalls, enjoy downtime at the beach, go snorkelling, go horse riding
Best time to visit: April to October
Where to stay: NIHI Sumba
12 Hawaii, USA
There aren’t many places that can compete with Hawaii when it comes to natural scenery. These islands are beyond beautiful with tropical vibes that give Bali a run for its money.
Beautiful golden sands, lush rainforests and jaw-dropping landscapes are all a given on a trip to Hawaii.
There are several islands to choose from but Kauai is amazing in Hawaii if you want to make the most of the impressive wild scenery.
As one of the best places like Bali, Hawaii offers a ton of similar things to do. As well as the obvious nature-focused activities like hiking, volcano trekking and waterfall chasing, you can also relax on the beach, surf and go scuba diving, too.
📸 Things to see & do in Hawaii: Visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, go hiking or horse riding, go snorkelling, learn to surf, visit waterfalls, join a dolphin watching tour
Best time to visit: April to October
Where to stay: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
13 Tulum, Mexico
Although it’s not one of the quietest destinations, Tulum still deserves a spot on this list of places like Bali. This popular Mexican destination has a laid-back tropical vibe with lots of similarities to Bali.
If you’re dreaming of a bohemian, back-to-nature setting, Tulum has you covered. It’s known for its eco resorts that have a luxury rustic feel. Plus, it’s big for wellness and yoga, which makes it feel a lot like Bali.
In Tulum, you’ll also find beautiful beaches, gorgeous cenotes and fascinating cultural spots to explore.
It’s a really lovely setting with paradise vibes. It’s also a good base for exploring the rest of the Yucatan Peninsula.
As a busier destination, Tulum isn’t the best place for a totally secluded vacation. However, if you’re travelling from the US or UK, it’s much easier to reach than Bali, so it’s a good option if you want a simpler journey and more time to relax.
📸 Things to see & do in Tulum: Explore Mayan ruins, swim in cenotes, sunbathe at the beach, browse boutique shops, rent bicycles, go snorkelling, join a yoga retreat, take a boat trip
Best time to visit: December to April
Where to stay: La Valise Tulum
14 Palawan, Philippines
Palawan is one of those places that’s super beautiful. It’s a Bali alternative that’s absolutely gorgeous with secluded beaches, dramatic coastal scenery and incredible turquoise waters.
There’s a big focus on water activities in this part of the Philippines – from boat trips and island hopping to snorkelling and diving.
Compared with Bali, Palawan has better beaches so it’s a heavenly choice if you want stretches of sands fringed with palm trees.
Like Bali, Palawan also has landscapes that are amazing for exploring. You’ll be able to trek through rainforests, chase waterfalls as well as try zip-lining and rock climbing.
The famous areas of El Nido and Coron can get busy in Palawan. But, there are other islands and spots across the province that are worth looking into if you want an unspoilt destination with fewer crowds.
📸 Things to see & do in Palawan: Go island hopping, relax on the beach, try sea kayaking, explore an underground river, swim & snorkel, go hiking & rock climbing
Best time to visit: November to May
Where to stay: Cauayan Island Resort and Spa
15 Mauritius
If you love the idea of Bali but want somewhere that’s less overrun with backpackers, you’ll probably love Mauritius. Like Bali, Mauritius is a beautiful tropical island packed with postcard-worthy beaches, warm waters and lots of things for active travellers to do.
Mauritius is a brilliant choice if you’re leaning more towards water activities. You’ll be able to enjoy things like snorkelling, sailing trips and stand-up paddleboarding. The beaches in Mauritius are heavenly and are better than Bali’s if that’s your priority.
Just like Bali has a jungle-clad interior and volcano hikes, Mauritius also has its own version with mountainous landscapes, lush rainforests, and trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and panoramic peaks.
In Mauritius, you’ll get a mix of laid-back beach days, culture and a touch of adventure. Because Mauritius is popular with honeymooners, it’s also an amazing choice for a luxury trip with beautiful and romantic accommodation.
📸 Things to see & do in Mauritius: Snorkel or dive in coral lagoons, hike in Black River Gorges National Park, explore Chamarel waterfalls, relax on white-sand beaches, take a catamaran cruise, visit botanical gardens
Best time to visit: September to December
Where to stay: Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel
16 Belize
If you’re drawn to Bali for the beaches, jungle adventures, and rich culture, Belize offers a unique but surprisingly similar vibe.
Over in Central America, Belize is known for its Caribbean coastline with palm-lined beaches and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling and diving.
It’s a destination that’s also known for having lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls and ancient Mayan ruins tucked deep in the jungle. There are also jungle lodges in Belize that easily rival Bali’s luxury retreats – they’re perfect for honeymooners.
Both Bali and Belize have a good balance between relaxation and adventure. In Belize, you’ll be able to try activities like cave tubing, ziplining and wildlife spotting.
Compared to Bali, Belize still feels a bit wild and a lot less touristy. So if you’re after a destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local culture, Belize is a great alternative to Bali!
📸 Things to see & do in Belize: Snorkel in Hol Chan Marine Reserve, dive the Great Blue Hole, explore Mayan ruins, visit jungle caves, go kayaking or river tubing
Best time to visit: December to April
Where to stay: Gaia Riverlodge
17 Roatan, Honduras
Roatán isn’t as well known as Bali, but this island offers many of the same highlights – just in a quieter, Caribbean setting.
Roatán is positioned along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef so it’s renowned for world-class snorkelling and diving, with colourful coral reefs, shipwrecks, and sea life that’s easily accessible from shore.
There’s also a ton on land in Roatán so it’s a great bet for active travellers who want somewhere comparable to Bali. This island’s lush interior will give you opportunities for adventure, including ziplining, hiking, and visiting wildlife sanctuaries.
While Bali has a lively social and wellness scene, Roatán offers a more low-key atmosphere. The pace is slower, and the focus is very much on nature, scuba diving and relaxation rather than nightlife (although nightlife is booming in the West End area).
If you love the idea of a relaxed and laid-back version of Bali where you can unwind without crowds in a beautiful setting, it’s a good option.
📸 Things to see & do in Roatán: Snorkel or dive the Mesoamerican Reef, relax on the beach, go ziplining, take a boat tour through mangroves, explore sea caves
Best time to visit: December to April
Where to stay: Ibagari Boutique Hotel
18 Nicaragua
If you want a destination that blends natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich cultural experiences, Nicaragua is a good alternative to Bali.
Both destinations are known for their dramatic landscapes – Bali has lush rice terraces, rainforests and volcanic peaks, and Nicaragua has a chain of active volcanoes, jungles and freshwater lakes.
Adventure is easy to find in both places. Like in Bali, in Nicaragua, you can hike up volcanoes, but you can also explore dense jungle reserves and kayak through island-studded lakes.
Nicaragua also has stunning coastlines. The Pacific side has a similar vibe to Bali with cool surf towns, scenic beaches and excellent conditions for surfing and swimming. If you want palm-fringed beaches and boat trips, you’ll love the Caribbean side – especially the Corn Islands.
Nicaragua is more under-the-radar than Bali so it’s a good choice for a quieter and more authentic experience. It’s also one of the best places like Bali but cheaper!
Nicaragua is gaining recognition as a wellness destination, too, so you’ll find amazing yoga retreats and wellness resorts like you do in Bali.
📸 Things to see & do in Nicaragua: Hike volcanoes, explore colonial towns, go surfing in San Juan del Sur, kayak on Lake Nicaragua, visit Ometepe Island, unwind at a wellness retreat
Best time to visit: November to April
Where to stay: Morgan’s Rock
19 Siargao, Philippines
I’ve already mentioned Palawan in the Philippines as one of the best places like Bali to travel, but I also love Siargao. Both Bali and Siargao are tropical islands that are bursting with natural beauty, vibrant surf scenes and a laid-back vibe.
Like Bali, Siargao is a surfing hotspot. It’s famous for Cloud 9, which is one of the world’s top surf spots. Both islands also offer stunning coastlines.
Siargao’s landscape feels a bit more untouched compared to Bali’s bustling tourist hubs. Compared with Bali’s lush rice terraces and volcanic mountains, Siargao’s island is dotted with palm-fringed lagoons, mangroves and limestone caves – it’s a super pretty natural backdrop.
Across both, you’ll find trails and waterfalls (Siaragro is home to the gorgeous Taktak Falls), but Siargao’s jungle feels wilder and less developed. It’s ideal if you want more of an off-the-beaten-path feel.
📸 Things to see & do in Siagao: Surf Cloud 9, go island hopping, swim in the Magpupungko rock pools, paddleboard on Sugba Lagoon, explore caves and jungle trails
Best time to visit: March to October
Where to stay: Nay Palad Hideaway
20 Goa, India
Goa and Bali are both iconic tropical destinations that blend beaches with vibrant culture and opportunities for adventure.
Like Bali, Goa offers beautiful golden coastlines lined with palm trees. Both places are known for their surf spots, too. Goa’s waves are less famous but you’ll still find good conditions for surfing.
Both of these destinations have gorgeous scenery which is why they’re great to compare. While Bali’s landscape is dramatic with rice terraces and volcanic mountains, Goa is all about gently rolling hills, spice plantations and scenic rivers.
Goa’s tropical forests are a little different to Bali’s jungles, but both destinations provide opportunities for exploring nature.
You’ll also find a lot of culture in Goa. Goa is known for its Portuguese colonial heritage, vibrant markets, and a mix of Hindu and Christian influences. Like Bali, you can expect lively festivals – there’s always a lot going on in Goa!
Goa is also known for its party scene with beach parties and music festivals. It’s one of the best places like Bali to travel if you love vibrant nightlife.
📸 Things to see & do in Goa: Relax on beaches like Palolem and Ashwem, take scenic drives through spice plantations, enjoy live music and beach markets, hike in the Western Ghats
Best time to visit: November to February
Where to stay: Alila Diwa Goa
21 Luang Prabang, Laos
Another of the best places like Bali to visit is Luang Prabang. Luang Prabang has similarities to the interior, rural regions of Bali so if you’re drawn to gorgeous natural surroundings, you’ll probably love Luang Prabang.
Although Luang Prabang doesn’t have beaches and surf, it’s surrounded by misty mountains and the serene scenery of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.
It’s absolutely beautiful with a big focus on tranquil jungle landscapes, exploring caves, and cruising scenic rivers. It’s also where you can hike to waterfalls – Kuang Si Waterfall is the most famous near Luang Prabang and it’s stunning!
As an amazing choice for outdoor lovers, Luang Prabang ticks many of the same boxes as Bali – it’s a good alternative to Ubud. It also offers a quieter atmosphere than many bustling Asian cities so it’s fab if you want somewhere calm surrounded by spectacular scenery.
📸 Things to see & do in Luang Prabang: Climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views, visit Kuang Si Falls, cruise the Mekong River, explore local markets, take a cooking class, bike through surrounding villages and rice paddies
Best time to visit: November to March
Where to stay: Rosewood Luang Prabang
22 Borneo
If you’ve been considering Bali because of its lush landscapes and outdoor activities, you might want to consider Borneo, too. Borneo is known for its untouched wilderness so it’s a fantastic alternative if you love nature.
Borneo is a nature lover’s dream with its ancient rainforests, towering mountains and incredible wildlife. You can encounter orangutans in the wild, explore dense jungles, and trek through some of Asia’s oldest ecosystems.
You won’t get the same vibe that Bali has in terms of parties, culture and tourist scene. However, if you want a Bali alternative that’s rooted in nature with a much more remote and wild feel – Borneo is it!
Borneo’s tourism is less developed than Bali’s and it’s a place that many backpackers miss off their travels. This means it’s ideal if you want an eco-adventure that’s a lot more authentic – all with fewer crowds.
📸 Things to see & do in Borneo: See orangutans in the wild, hike Mount Kinabalu, visit rainforests and river lodges, snorkel or dive in Sipadan, explore caves in Mulu National Park, take jungle canopy walks
Best time to visit: March to October
Where to stay: Borneo Rainforest Lodge
23 Okinawa, Japan
Okinawa in Japan probably isn’t the first place you think of as a Bali alternative but it’s a good option that I had to include!
Okinawa is an island group in southern Japan and has many of the same natural draws as Bali with tropical waters, beautiful beaches and a warm, sunny climate. However, Okinawa stands out for its quieter pace and fewer crowds – especially in the shoulder seasons.
Outdoor activities are a key highlight in Okinawa. Around Okinawa, you’ll find opportunities for relaxed exploration, forest hiking and ferry trips to surrounding islands. The beautiful Kerama Islands in particular are amazing for beaches, snorkelling and diving.
Okinawa is known for being a ‘Blue Zone’ and the islands’s long-standing wellness traditions make them a fab destination for a quiet and restorative experience.
📸 Things to see & do in Okinawa: Snorkel or dive coral reefs, relax on quiet beaches, take scenic coastal drives, go island hopping, hike subtropical trails, visit Ryukyu villages
Best time to visit: March to May or October to December
Where to stay: Halekulani Okinawa
24 Hoi An, Vietnam
I love Hoi An as a destination and even though it’s not an island, it captures a lot of the same easygoing vibe and visual appeal as Bali.
Hoi An is best known for its beautifully preserved old town, with lantern-lit streets, cafes, colourful markets and riverside paths that are perfect for wandering or cycling.
Hoi An doesn’t have the surf or mountainous jungles of Bali, but it’s minutes from sandy beaches and has access to countryside trails, rice paddies and boat trips along the Thu Bồn River.
I love that it’s a destination where you have a bit of everything. The vibe is also calm, friendly and romantic with much less of the high-energy tourism that dominates parts of Bali.
Hoi An is a brilliant destination for foodies, too, with street food, tours and cooking classes. It’s also a city that’s known for coffee so you’ll find great cafe culture like you do in Bali.
📸 Things to see & do in Hoi An: Cycle through rice paddies, relax at An Bang Beach, take a boat trip on the Thu Bồn River, browse lantern-lit streets and markets, visit nearby countryside
Best time to visit: February to August
Where to stay: Anantara Hoi An Resort
25 Bacalar, Mexico
Bacalar is often described as one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets so it’s perfect if you’re looking for the beauty and atmosphere of somewhere like Bali but without the crowds or overdevelopment.
Located in the southern part of Quintana Roo, near the Belize border, Bacalar sits on the edge of the Laguna de Bacalar (Lagoon of Seven Colours). It’s not a beach destination, but the lagoon is a gorgeous spot for swimming and kayaking.
What I love is that the town itself is small and relaxed. It feels comfortable and low-key without feeling overly touristy.
If you want the back-to-nature beauty of Bali, you’ll get a similar vibe in Bacalar. Bacalar has easy access to nature with nearby cenotes, jungle reserves and Mayan ruins. Just don’t expect the same amount of cultural experiences or lively atmosphere that you get in Bali.
📸 Things to see & do in Bacalar: Swim or kayak in the Lagoon of Seven Colours, visit cenotes, take a boat tour of the lagoon, relax in overwater hammocks
Best time to visit: November to April
Where to stay: Our Habitas Bacalar
Similar places like Bali FAQs
Is Bali similar to Thailand?
There are definitely some similarities between Thailand and Bali. Both are gorgeous tropical destinations that are rich in culture and have some of the world’s most photogenic landscapes and bucket list attractions.
However, Thailand is an entire country rather than just one island. Thailand also has more in the way of white sandy beaches than Bali, as well as a different culture and much livelier nightlife.
You can see all the similarities and differences in my post: Bali or Thailand: Which is Better for a Honeymoon?
Is Bali like Bora Bora?
Bali and Bora Bora are similar in that they are both tropical island destinations, but they cater to different types of travellers.
Bora Bora has a much bigger focus on beaches. It’s also a lot more of a luxury honeymoon destination with upscale resorts and overwater bungalows.
RELATED: Must-Visit Places Like Bora Bora
Bali on the other hand doesn’t compare with its beaches, but it does have rich culture, lush scenery and loads more for adventure travellers to do. If you want to get out and explore, Bali is probably your better bet!
Where is as beautiful as Bali?
There are lots of places that are just as beautiful as Bali. Hawaii is considered one of the world’s most photogenic destinations.
In Southeast Asia, the Philippines and Thailand have gorgeous landscapes. You’ll also find incredible beaches in places like the Seychelles and Fiji.
Are there places like Bali in Europe?
Unfortunately, there aren’t many places in Europe that are like Bali. A big highlight of Bali is its lush tropical scenery, which isn’t found in Europe. An exception to this is Madeira. Thanks to its location, Madeira has a subtropical climate and amazing scenery that contends with Bali’s!
What are the best places like Bali for a honeymoon?
There are so many amazing places like Bali that are perfect for a honeymoon. The Seychelles, Fiji and St Lucia are all great traditional options for couples.
If you want a back-to-nature honeymoon, Costa Rica is also an incredible Bali alternative.
Is Bali worth visiting?
Even though Bali can feel busy, it doesn’t have to be completely dismissed. There’s a reason why this island attracts so many tourists – it’s incredibly beautiful and has lots to offer.
If you still want to visit, I’d recommend going outside the peak season and heading to some of the less popular spots. The north of Bali, for example, sees fewer tourists than places like Ubud and Canggu.
RELATED: Uluwatu or Ubud? Where’s Best to Stay in Bali?
Final thoughts on the best places like Bali
Across the globe, there are lots of places that are similar to Bali. Whether your focus is nature, beaches, culture or wellness, there are plenty of alternative Bali choices that are just as good.
From Sri Lanka to Sumba, so many destinations are equally as heavenly as Bali and will often give you a more authentic travel experience, too!
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