Bali Hidden Gems: Secret Spots & Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures (2025)
Think you’ve seen everything Bali has to offer? Think again! While most travelers stick to the usual hotspots—Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, and Nusa Penida—there’s a whole other side to Bali waiting to be explored. From secluded waterfalls to untouched rice terraces, these hidden gems will take your adventure to the next level.
If you’re the kind of traveler who craves authentic experiences, loves escaping the crowds, and wants to uncover Bali’s secret spots, this guide is for you!
We'll tell you also where to book these experiences!
🌿 1. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – A Quieter, More Authentic Alternative to Tegallalang
Everyone’s heard of Tegallalang Rice Terraces, but if you want breathtaking views without the crowds, head to Jatiluwih Rice Terraces instead. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these endless emerald-green fields stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a peaceful and immersive experience.
I remember walking along the winding paths, with nothing but the sound of rustling rice stalks and distant birds. Unlike Tegallalang, you won’t be rushed to take your photos or dodge dozens of tourists. It’s just you and nature at its finest.
👉 Why visit Jatiluwih instead of Tegallalang?
- Far fewer crowds (you might have the entire place to yourself!)
- Larger and more scenic than Tegallalang
- Perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts
💸 Tip: book the activity below as you'll also get to visit the iconic Tanah Lot Temple and Ulundanu Beratan Temple on the same tour 👇
💦 2. Taman Sari Waterfall – A Hidden Paradise in North Bali
If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful yet least-visited waterfalls in Bali, put Taman Sari Waterfall on your list. Located in Buleleng Regency, this hidden paradise is tucked away in the jungle, with cascading falls pouring into a crystal-clear pool.
Unlike more famous waterfalls like Tegenungan or Gitgit, Taman Sari remains a secret—meaning no massive tour groups or Instagram queues. Just pure, untouched nature.
🚶♂️ The journey? A scenic trek through rice fields and dense jungle, making the experience even more rewarding when you finally arrive.
Tip: Bring a swimsuit! The pool at the base of the falls is perfect for a refreshing swim.
🍛 3. Balinese Cooking Class – The Tastiest Way to Experience Local Culture
You can visit temples and beaches, but one of the best ways to truly experience Bali is through its flavors! A Balinese cooking class takes you beyond just eating delicious food—you actually learn how to make it from scratch, just like the locals do.
Most classes start with a traditional market visit, where you’ll pick out fresh herbs, exotic spices, and organic vegetables before heading to the kitchen. Then, under the guidance of a local chef, you’ll prepare authentic Balinese dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice), sate lilit (minced seafood satay), and lawar (spiced coconut and vegetable mix).
We then proceeded with the cooking class - we cooked several dishes and honestly we had so much fun!
👉 Why take a Balinese cooking class?
- It’s a hands-on cultural experience
- You get to eat the most delicious, home-cooked Balinese food
- You’ll take home recipes to recreate the magic!
We personally did this in Semyniak and had the best time. You can book the same one just below 👇 We also added a cooking class with exceptional reviews in Ubud in case you want to do it there.
🌋 4. Sunrise Hike at Mount Batur – A Bucket-List Worthy Adventure
If you’re up for an epic sunrise experience, a hike up Mount Batur is a must-do. Yes, it requires an early wake-up call (we’re talking 2 AM!), but trust me—the views from the top are worth every step.
The moderate trek takes around two hours, and once you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted by one of the most spectacular sunrises over Bali. Watching the golden hues spread across the island, with Mount Agung and the distant Lombok volcano in view, is a moment you’ll never forget.
👉 Why hike Mount Batur?
- Unbeatable sunrise views
- Perfect for adventure seekers
- A great way to experience Bali’s volcanic landscape
Tip: Bring a jacket—it gets surprisingly cold at the summit!
We have handpicked the 3 Best Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking Tours
🐠 5. Amed – Bali’s Best Kept Secret for Snorkeling & Diving
If you love snorkeling or diving, skip the crowded beaches and head to Amed, a coastal village in East Bali that remains blissfully untouched. With vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and crystal-clear waters, Amed is a diver’s paradise.
Unlike the touristy beaches in Kuta or Seminyak, Amed offers a slower, more relaxed vibe. You can spend your day snorkeling right from the shore, exploring the famous USS Liberty Shipwreck in Tulamben, or simply enjoying the quiet, black-sand beaches.
👉 Why visit Amed instead of the usual beaches?
- Some of the best snorkeling & diving spots in Bali
- Far fewer tourists
- A peaceful, laid-back vibe
Tips:
Stay in a beachfront bungalow for a truly relaxing getaway and visit Virgin beach - the most secluded beach in Bali 🌊
You can book a full day experience of East Bali which include Snorkeling and a trip to Virgin Beach below 👇
Final Tips - What to pack for Bali
Before you go, make sure you’re fully prepared for your adventure! Check out essential travel accessories for South East Asia —like waterproof phone cases, hiking gear, travel adapters 🛍️ Shop travel essentials here!
If you need a FULL guide on what to pack for your Bali trip you can find a comprehensive packing list 🎒 here.
🚀 Want more Bali inspiration? If you're ready to experience the best of Bali's famous landmarks, make sure to check out my guide to the top must-do experiences in Bali! 👉 Read the blog here.