The Only Guide to Bali for a Family Holiday You Will Ever Need

With a never-ending coastline, an array of plush rice terraces and several barren volcanoes, Bali makes a perfect choice for an adventurous and fun-filled getaway. Owing to its diverse landscape, the famed ‘Island of the Gods’ has tons to offer to everyone in terms of a vacation. Over the years, the island has become a good fit for all types of travellers, including families with kids. So, if you’re a blooming family looking to get away with your kids, a family holiday in Bali could well be the best option for you. Find below an exhaustive guide to help you plan the perfect family vacation to Bali:

Where to Stay in Bali with Kids

While planning a holiday with kids, it is pertinent to stay at a place that is not just safe but also vibrant and lively, for the little ones tend to get bored faster. Luckily, Bali has a wide variety of stay options that are anything but boring. To make the best of your Bali family holiday, consider putting up at either one of the below:

Seminyak: Considered as one of the plushest neighbourhoods of Bali, Seminyak is safe, clean and well-connected. It is lined with several restaurants and offers a pristine stretch of beach between Legian and Kuta. When in Seminyak, consider staying at the below:

• Royal Beach Resort, Seminyak
• W Retreat and Spa, Bali
• The Samaya Seminyak Villas

Kuta: One of the liveliest in places in Bali, Kuta is a preferred choice for most visitors coming to the island. It’s a popular spot which is easily accessible and well-connected and presents an ideal choice for families with children. Though it’s known as the party capital of Bali, there is no dearth of family accommodations in Kuta, Bali. When here, consider staying at the below.

• Hard Rock Hotel
• Bali Dynasty Resort
• Risata Bali Resort and Spa

Ubud: Those wanting to expose their tiny tots to a world full of greenery can consider staying at Ubud. The lush hilly region boasts a laid-back life and is ideal for families seeking a rustic experience. Despite being a rather isolated choice, Ubud’s family-friendly resorts are aplenty, with many being specifically built for children of all age groups. When here, consider staying at the below:

• The Chedi Club, Ubud
• Amori Villas, Ubud
• Sri Bungalows, Ubud

Nusa Dua: If Bali, Indonesia family holidays equal beachy goodness for you and your folks, then head straight to the beautiful landscapes of Nusa Dua. Away from the madness of Kuta, Nusa Dua consists of a secluded resort area and the bustling avenue of Tanjung Benoa. Boating some of the best family beach resorts in Bali, Nusa Dua is ideal for you and your little ones. When here, consider staying at the below:

• The Westin Resort Nusa Dua
• The Ritz Carlton Bali
• St Regis Bali

In addition to the above, other parts of the island such as Uluwatu, Jimbaran Bay, Sanur, and Lovina also offer good resorts in Bali.

When to Go

Bali Family Holidays can be every bit fun and fulfilling if taken at the right time. To ensure that you have a ball of a time and are not bogged down by climatic hindrances, consider visiting the island during the dry season i.e. between April to September. Since the period also coincides with summer holidays in most schools, it is an ideal time for a getaway for families with kids.

The wet season i.e. October to March marks a time of heavy downpours in Bali. This could cause hassles with transportation and sightseeing in the region. However, the low period promises lesser crowds and great deals on accommodation. So, if you’re interested in a quiet staycation with your kids, you can also consider visiting the island during the wet season.

Things to Do in Bali with Kids

With lively beaches, a ton of eateries and several adventures activities on offer, a Balinese holiday with kids is a great idea. You can opt for one of our customized Bali tour packages from India. Check out the list of things to do with kids on a Bali Family Holiday:

• Visit the Monkey Forest (Ubud): Situated in the heart of Ubud, the Monkey forest is an unfenced territory where monkeys roam around free. The place promises a good time for adults as well as kids.
• Visit the Bali Safari and Marine Park (Gianyar, 1 hour 10 minutes from Kuta): Bali Safari and Marine Park is one of the largest animal parks in Bali, a perfect day out for families. With over 60 different species which roam freely on the premises, you and your family can enjoy a safari ride and watch the animals in their natural habitat. The adjacent waterpark is ideal for those who want to catch a glimpse of the animated underwater world. All in all, it’s a fun-filled escape for everyone alike. 

• Indulge in Water Sports at Waterbom, Bali (Kuta): Promising a well-rounded family time is the Waterbom in Bali. It is voted as one of the best water parks in Asia. Come here for a splash of time with your little one!

• Visit a Temple: If you wish to give your children a lesson in the culture of Bali while still promising them a good time, plan a visit to one of the temples in Bali. The Uluwatu Temple, Pura Tirta Empul and the Besakih Temple are some of the popular choices to consider.
• Go on an Island tour: If you’re looking for a fun day trip with the family, hop on a Bali Island Tour. A full day package is offered by many local operators and typically includes a visit to Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and Ceningan.

In addition to the above, families can spend time lazing around on the beaches of Bali while also indulging in the rich culinary treasures of the island. Those with a penchant for adventure can further try their hands at snorkeling, diving, and a host of other water sports.

Safety and Travel Advisory

• While there’s a range of transport options available in Bali, it is best to hire a taxi while getting around on the island. A full day taxi with a driver can easily be rented from the hotel or one of the local operators in the area.
• Always use bottled water for drinking purposes. While distilled water is easily available in most places in Bali, it is best to opt for packaged drinking water while traveling with kids to Bali.
• Carrying mosquito repellent creams and gels will come in handy. Many regions in Bali are often plagued with mosquitoes and it is advisable to carry a mosquito repellent in tow while traveling here. You can also purchase one from the medical stores and supermarkets in the region. Additionally, it can also be useful to carry a mosquito net while traveling with kids.
• Get Vaccinated! Though Bali is safe and mostly epidemic free, it is best to get the necessary vaccines before visiting here. Consult a doctor and get the required shots before voyaging your way to the island.