Bali is one of those destinations that stays in your heart long after your trip ends. Between its beaches, temples, waterfalls, and thrilling adventure activities, Bali offers a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. But with so much to explore, most travelers end up missing iconic experiences.

So, here’s your ultimate “Things to Do in Bali Before You Leave” list—covering must-do adventures, cultural rituals, island escapes, and immersive local experiences. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, these activities will make your Bali vacation unforgettable.

1. Swim with Dolphins – A Magical, Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Swimming with dolphins in Bali is without doubt one of the most emotional experiences you can have.
Happening mostly in Lovina Beach, this activity lets you:

  • Watch dolphins jump freely at sunrise

  • Swim near these gentle creatures in shallow waters

  • Capture beautiful photos

  • Enjoy a peaceful early-morning boat ride

Most tours start around 5 AM, giving you the perfect golden sunrise backdrop.

Why you should do it before leaving Bali:
It’s rare, magical, and something you will remember forever. Kids especially love this activity.

Suggested read- BALI TRAVEL GUIDE 2025

2. Experience Bali’s Purification Ritual (Melukat) at Tirta Empul

A Bali trip isn't complete without experiencing the famous water purification ritual.
Held at Tirta Empul Temple, Melukat is a Balinese Hindu ceremony meant to:

  • Cleanse your mind

  • Release negative energy

  • Invite good luck

  • Bring calmness and peace

You stand under holy spring water fountains, each representing a blessing.
It’s deeply spiritual and therapeutic.

Why it’s a must-do:
It gives you a deeper connection to Balinese culture and spirituality.

3. Explore Nusa Penida – Bali’s Most Scenic Island

Nusa Penida is the most photogenic island near Bali and home to dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and pristine beaches.

Must-visit spots:

  • Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Cliff)

  • Crystal Bay

  • Broken Beach

  • Angel’s Billabong

  • Diamond Beach

  • Rumah Pohon Tree House

You can go for a day trip or stay overnight.

Why it’s essential before leaving Bali:
It gives you the postcard-perfect Bali landscapes you see on Instagram.

Suggested read- NEW YEAR CELEBERATION IN BALI

4. Fly High With Paragliding Over Uluwatu

Nothing beats the feeling of flying high above Bali’s cliffs, beaches, and blue waters.
Paragliding in Uluwatu is the best place for:

  • Stunning sunset views

  • A thrilling aerial experience

  • Epic GoPro footage

  • Perfect coastline panoramas

Duration: 10–15 minutes
Best Time: 3 PM – 6 PM

Why it’s a must-do:
It’s one of Bali’s top adventure experiences and gives the best aerial views.

5. Go on an ATV Jungle Ride – Mud, Adventure & Pure Fun

For thrill seekers, the Bali ATV ride is unmissable. This adventure takes you through:

  • Rice fields

  • Rural villages

  • Jungle trails

  • Mud pools

  • Rivers and natural tunnels

It’s messy, wild, and incredibly fun—perfect for groups and couples.

Why you should do it:
It’s one of Bali’s signature adventure activities.

6. See the Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance at Sunset

The Kecak Dance is one of Bali’s most iconic cultural experiences.
Held at the clifftop Uluwatu Temple, this fiery performance includes:

  • Traditional Balinese chants

  • A dramatic fire dance

  • A breathtaking sunset background

  • Ocean cliffs and temple views

The atmosphere is unforgettable.

Why it must be on your list:
You get culture, performance, sunset, and views—everything in one experience.

7. Chase Bali’s Famous Waterfalls

From secret waterfalls to powerful cascades, Bali is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Asia.

Top waterfalls to visit:

  • Tegenungan Waterfall

  • Sekumpul Waterfall (most beautiful)

  • Tukad Cepung Waterfall (sunbeam cave)

  • Gitgit Waterfall

  • Leke Leke Waterfall

Why you should go:
Each waterfall feels like stepping into a different world.

8. Swing Over the Jungle at Bali Swing Ubud

The Bali Jungle Swing is a world-famous activity where you soar over:

  • Palm forests

  • Tropical valleys

  • Rice fields

  • River canyons

You also get Instagrammable nests and photo spots.

Why it’s essential:
It’s one of the most iconic Bali moments you’ll capture.

9. Visit Ubud Monkey Forest – Cute, Naughty & Fun

Meet Bali’s cheekiest residents at the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud.
You’ll experience:

  • Friendly macaques

  • Ancient temples

  • Jungle pathways

  • Great photo opportunities

Tip: Keep your sunglasses and phones hidden—the monkeys are smart!

10. Relax in Bali’s Famous Beach Clubs

Bali’s beach clubs are the best places to unwind before heading home.

Best ones to try:

  • Finns Beach Club

  • Potato Head Beach Club

  • Savaya Bali

  • Tropical Temptation Beach Club

  • Oneeighty° Cliff Club

Why visit:
Chill vibes, cocktails, sunset DJ, infinity pools—perfect Bali goodbye experience.

11. Snorkel With Turtles at Gili Islands or Blue Lagoon

If you love underwater life, don’t miss Bali’s snorkelling experiences:

  • Blue Lagoon (Padang Bai)

  • Amed Beach

  • Nusa Penida Manta Bay (manta rays!)

  • Gili Trawangan (turtles)

You’ll see colorful corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles up close.

12. Visit Tanah Lot – Bali’s Most Photographed Temple

Located on a rocky island structure, Tanah Lot is a stunning sunset spot where waves crash dramatically against the temple base.

Great for:

  • Photos

  • Cultural significance

  • Souvenir shopping

13. Enjoy a Balinese Spa & Massage Before Leaving

A Bali trip is incomplete without a relaxing spa session.

Try:

  • Traditional Balinese massage

  • Hot stone massage

  • Flower bath

  • Herbal body scrub

Perfect way to end your vacation on a peaceful note.

14. Shop for Souvenirs in Ubud Art Market & Kuta Night Market

Before leaving Bali, grab gifts like:

  • Handmade bags

  • Traditional sarongs

  • Balinese wooden carvings

  • Coconut bowls

  • Essential oils

  • Jewelry

Always bargain politely for the best deals.

15. Take a Balinese Cooking Class

Learn how to prepare:

  • Nasi Goreng

  • Satay

  • Balinese curry

  • Sambal

  • Spring rolls

It’s fun, interactive, and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Bali is a paradise filled with experiences you won’t find anywhere else. From swimming with dolphins to experiencing ancient purification rituals, from thrilling ATV rides to exploring Nusa Penida’s dramatic coastlines—Bali offers endless memories for every traveler.

Before you leave Bali, make sure your itinerary includes at least a mix of adventure, culture, relaxation, and local experiences. That’s when you truly feel the magic of this incredible island.