Top Ten with a Toddler: Bali!

Bali is an incredible island with a diverse and unique culture – a Hindu island in a Muslim country, a blend of traditions and tourism. While Bali is perfect for couples, thrill-seekers, and surfers, don’t overlook it as a family destination!

Here are the top ten things that I would do with a toddler on Bali.

Explore Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot temple is one of the most iconic sites in Bali, and for good reason. This temple on an outcrop of rock over the sea is a stunning sight as the waves crash in.

The area has become very tourism-focused, and you’ll have to get past a lot of vendors before you get to the view. But once you’re there, you’ll have amazing photos and some awesome tide pools for your little one to explore.

Escape the heat at the Beachfront Shopping Center

If you’re around the Kuta area, be sure to pop into this beachfront mall for an ice cream and a bit of shopping.

The unique indoor-outdoor design, upscale feel, and variety of restaurants makes this mall a great stop for an afternoon.

We loved this as a place to rest, cool down, and refresh before heading back out to explore the island more.

Make new friends at Monkey Forest

The Monkey Forest sanctuary in Ubud is sure to thrill your toddler. This 30-acre forest houses more than 600 long-tailed macaques, three temples, and gigantic banyan trees.

The monkeys can be a bit naughty, so you’ll want to stay close to your child. Also, be careful not to bring anything that a monkey could steal – they are known for rummaging through purses and snatching cameras!

You can buy bananas at the entrance to feed the monkeys, and if you want, you can encourage the monkeys to climb on you – under staff supervision, of course.

They’re really not that different from toddlers, come to think of it….

You can read more about the ethics of visiting Ubud Monkey Forest, and the ethics of animal tourism in general, here.

Splash around at Waterbom waterpark

While most of this incredible waterpark is going to be too big for your toddler, there is a really great little kids’ section called Funtastic. It would be a great place to let your little one run and play, and you can kick back with a drink from the bar!

Maybe you could even take turns sneaking away to try out the massive waterslides, if that’s your thing!

Chase butterflies

While some people might consider the entry cost a bit steep for a short activity (around US $7 for adults) , the Bali Butterfly Park is a like a fairy wonderland for a toddler.

Started as a butterfly conservancy, this butterfly park has an amazing assortment of beautiful bugs to enjoy.

What toddler doesn’t love chasing butterflies around?

Explore the markets of Canggu

I love to bring my toddler to markets wherever we travel. The sights, the sounds, the smells… and of course, all the awesome tastes! I also really love to purchase fresh produce to cook and snack on throughout our trip.

We did not make it to Canggu while we were in Bali unfortunately, but Charlotte over at Sunshine Seeker has a helpful guide to the best Canggu markets. It’s top of our list when we return!

Marvel at Besakih Temple

The largest and most important Hindu temple in Bali is Besakih. This is a great place for little legs to explore, and you’ll love the gorgeous architecture and photo ops.

Take in a Balinese dance show

Does your child like bright colors? Upbeat music? Dancing? Elaborate productions?

Don’t miss out on attending a traditional Balinese dance show while you’re on the island. You’ll enjoy the cultural experience, and your little one will enjoy the excitement of the music and dancing.

Visit a traditional village and rice paddy

There are lots of tours that will take you to the rice paddies, but make sure that you choose one that isn’t too long – you don’t want to spend all day there with a toddler.

But if you go with a family-friendly tour, your little one will love seeing the people at the village (and they will love seeing your child!), and exploring the lush green landscape is always a thrill.

Play at the beach

This is a no-brainer in Bali. You’ll be spoiled with choices of world-class beaches here, but Nusa Dua is especially good for families.

Why not take a surfing lesson while you’re here? Your little one will surely enjoy watching your attempts.

Be sure to check out these baby beach essentials before you go!

Finally, check out these great books to prepare for your trip!

Photos are mine, or the work of these talented photographers from unsplash.com: Agto Nugroho, Sebastian Pena Lambarri, Oktomi Jaya, Boris Smokrovic