It’s no secret that Bali is on the brink of over-tourism. With over 5 million foreign arrivals in the past year alone, it’s not the chilled-out island destination it once was.
But despite this, you can still have an authentic experience if you venture off the beaten track in Bali. You might be skeptical, just like I was, but there are some true hidden gems in Bali that are well worth a visit.
Not convinced?
Keep reading because in this guide, I’ve detailed 13 of the best-kept secrets in Bali, as well as other destinations in Indonesia that are worth a visit if you truly want to escape the hustle and bustle of popular Bali attractions.
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Can you really find hidden gems in Bali in 2025
Social media shows the good side of the attractions in Bali. The dreamy images of picturesque rice fields with mountain backdrops. The breathtaking beaches with crystal clear waters and not a soul in sight.
More often than not, these photos are taken at the crack of dawn when most people are still fast asleep.
Photoshop also does a really good job of creating this idyllic and remote atmosphere. Simply edit the unwanted people, the distracting signs and power cables, and the heaps of rubbish out of the image – and there you have it, paradise personified!
expectations of Bali’s secret spots
Most travelers (who prefer not to wake up at 5 am on their vacation) may be disappointed when visiting these iconic areas of Bali.
I’m not a fan of the traffic and the long queues. But the worst is arriving at a destination expecting one thing and finding another. This is especially true at the Tegal Wangi Beach “cave” in Uluwatu – which is totally not a cave, by the way.
But, there’s hope!
After visiting Bali numerous times over the past few years, I was less than convinced I’d find the remote island vibe I was looking for. But, if you’re willing to go off the beaten track to find the best hidden gems in Bali, you’ll be surprised at what you’ll discover.
My advice is to give Bali a chance; when planning your Bali itinerary, try to go off the beaten path for a few days to discover a more authentic part of the island.
Bali hidden gems to add to your itinerary
Below, I’ve included my favorite places to go off the beaten path in Bali. I’ve also added other locations I don’t consider hidden gems anymore. However, they’re still worthy of a visit if you’re in the area.
1. Sidemen: Where to go in Bali for a remote stay
If there’s one hidden gem in Bali that needs to be on your bucket list, it’s Sidemen.
Picture rolling hills for as far as the eyes can see, palm trees, and rice terraces. This is what you’ll be treated to when you arrive in Sidemen. And yes, crowd-free!
Tucked away on the east of the island, Sidemen is the epitome of an off the beaten track destination in Bali.
Why Sidemen
Driving to Sidemen, you’ll immediately notice the change in atmosphere compared to the south of the island. The traffic dwindles as you follow the winding roads toward Mount Agung, passing through several small villages.
Sidemen is an excellent base for a few days, and there’s no doubt that it’s one of Bali’s best-kept secrets.
If you want to immerse yourself in the spectacular setting, I recommend staying in a bamboo house like this in the mountains. These are only a stone’s throw away from the village yet provide a secluded escape that you won’t find anywhere else.
2. Munduk, North Bali
When I first visited Munduk, I had zero expectations! It was an accidental stop as I was doing an overland trip to Java and needed a halfway point to spend the night.
I loved Munduk so much that I stayed here for 3 nights, exploring all the charming village has to offer.
Recently, Munduk has become Insta famous thanks to the numerous bird nests and swings as well as the picturesque Handara Golf Gates and Ulun Danu Temple
Most people don’t realize that these bucket list locations in Bali are not found in Munduk itself but are about 30 30-minute drive from the village. There’s so much more to this hidden gem in Bali than what meets the eye, and you need to spend a few days here to really discover the true side of Munduk.
Why Munduk
Get lost amongst the rice fields, trekking through the forests, chat with the locals, and enjoy unspoiled views from your homestay. These were my highlights from my time in Munduk!
As with Sidemen, Munduk is another place where you can find incredible accommodation high up in the mountains with panoramic views. This is the perfect place to sit back, relax, read a book, and take in the island’s tranquil atmosphere.
Check out this gorgeous glamping option that’s definitely off the beaten track near Munduk.
3. Balian Beach
I’m constantly blown away by just how diverse and unique every village in Bali is. Each has its own vibe, be it festive, relaxed, or even spiritual.
I loved the chilled-out atmosphere of Balian Beach, and if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the beaches in Canggu, head to this hidden gem slightly further up the coast.
Why Balian Beach
This black sand beach is the perfect getaway if you want to enjoy the summer sun while sipping on some Bintangs and avoiding the crowds.
If you’re a yogi, there are several incredible yoga retreats where you can join for a daily yoga class. The good news is you won’t be fighting for a spot as you’ll most likely be the only person there!
The surf’s also good here, so expect to spot a few surfers, but other than that, there’s not much going on in this sleepy seaside village in Bali.
4. Jatiluwih Rice Terrace
Bali wouldn’t be Bali without rice paddies. And you don’t have to venture too far to find them on the island – they’re everywhere. And yes, they are as stunning as the photos portray them to be; even those Bali haters will agree with me on this one!
Jatiluwih Rice Terrace stands out above the rest and is far more impressive than all the other rice fields on the island.
Why Jitiluwih Rice Terraces
This hidden gem in Bali is fast becoming THE place to visit. You know, the one where everyone goes to skip the crowds that flock to the more popular Tegalalang Rice Terrace near Ubud.
The good thing is that Jatiluwih is so vast, and if you just follow one of the many small trails that lead off the main path, you’ll soon find yourself amongst the fields with no one in sight.
5. Nyang Nyang Beach
No trip to Bali is complete without exploring some of the best beaches in Uluwatu.
They are arguably the most breathtaking beaches on the island, with powdery white sand, crystal clear waters, and large towering cliffs as the backdrop.
But most beaches in Uluwatu are tourist hotspots, with Padang Padang and Suluban Beach being the most popular.
The least popular? Nyang Nyang Beach!
The reason for this is most likely because it’s a bit further off the beaten track.
Why nyang Nyang Beach
If you make the extra effort to get to Nyang Nyang, you’ll be rewarded with an empty stretch of beach, which you can enjoy all to yourself!
Go for a long stroll along the water’s edge, catch up on some reading, work on that tan, or swim in the turquoise waters. Just ensure you bring refreshments and snacks as there are no vendors or sun loungers to rent – and it gets hot down there.
READ MORE: WHERE TO STAY IN ULUWATU, BALI
6. Balangan area: Bali’s best kept secret
So, I wouldn’t quite call Balangan Beach one of Bali’s hidden gems. While it’s my favorite beach in Uluwatu, the beach itself attracts tourists in their numbers thanks to the iconic viewpoint.
But it isn’t just Balangan Beach that I’m a huge fan of; it’s the entire area of Balangan. It’s an awesome place to base yourself in Uluwatu, away from the crowds and off the beaten track.
And yes, I would know as I spent 6 weeks in Balangan, and it’s one of the best locations for finding hidden places in Bali.
Why Balangan Beach
The vibe here is super relaxed, with lots of open spaces filled with palm trees. There’s no traffic; instead of trucks and taxis, cows and chickens roam the streets.
Not only is it close to several beaches but it’s also home to some of the best local warungs on the island.
Many people visit Balangan Beach on an organized day tour, which generally includes stops at other beaches in the area, but if you’re looking to escape the crowds, I highly recommend spending some time here.
7. Brunch at St. Regis
I’m a budget traveler and quite frugal with my money.
But, I’m willing to splurge on once-in-a-lifetime experiences, like a scuba diving liveaboard in the Komodo Islands, which put a huge dent in my budget during my 2-month backpacking trip through Indonesia!
I also love food… and champagne.
So, when my 30th birthday approached, my boyfriend knew just how to spoil me: Brunch at the St. Regis Resort in Nusa Dua!
No, Nusa Dua isn’t quite off the beaten track but I’ve included this as a Bali hidden gem as this experience isn’t as widely advertised as others you’ll find.
To date, brunch at St. Regis is one of the highlights of my time in Bali, no questions asked.
Why brunch
It was more than just a brunch; it was a 4-hour culinary experience where we indulged in over 20 courses of the most incredible food I’ve ever eaten!
Everything was on point, from the service to the free-flowing sparkling wine to the presentation of the meals. If you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or you simply want a memorable experience in Bali, head to St. Regis.
And yes, I totally rocked up in style at one of the most extravagant 5* resorts in Bali: On my scooter!
8. Nusa Lembongan
Enter my new favorite place in Bali: Nusa Lembongan.
This small island off the east coast of Bali is just a stone’s throw away from Nusa Penida but is often skipped by travelers. The beaches of Nusa Lembongan are untouched and offer a tranquil atmosphere.
There aren’t many shops or sophisticated restaurants on the island, and the main streets are lined with local warungs. While it has a lively atmosphere with rustic beach bars, it’s certainly not a clubbing vibe.
9. River Rafting
After countless trips to Bali, I finally decided to go river rafting. I was expecting crowds, but there were none!
There are 2 places to go rafting in Bali. Telaga Waja River (near Sidemen) and the Ayung River (near Ubud). Telaga Waja River has the longest course and is located towards the east of Bali, making it more off the beaten path than the Ayung River, which is close to Ubud.
This is the best way to see the countryside and be surrounded by nature. The river rafting I did, Telaga Waja River, passed countless waterfalls, palm trees, and lush green forests. There were no resorts and no high-end restaurants – Just a few local huts, and that’s it.
You can book the same rafting tour I did here.
10. Subak Juwuk Manis Rice Fields
Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Jatiluwih Rice Terrace are two of the most impressive rice paddies in Bali. But if you’re looking for a secret spot even more off the beaten track, I highly recommend Subak Juwuk Manis Rice Fields.
These rice fields are nestled just a short walk from Ubud center. The path takes you through the more rural parts that are not popular with tourists.
11. Amed
Amed is a small fishing village located northeast of Bali. It’s a black sand beach famous for its snorkeling and diving.
It’s one of the more unexplored places in Bali and doesn’t attract as many tourists as other areas. It’s a far cry from the dazzling beach clubs of Seminyak and is perfect for a relaxing beach getaway.
Amed is also known for its diving as there is an impressive Japanese Wreck that attracts many underwater enthusiasts.
12. Pasut Beach
Pasut Beach is a long black sand beach only 45 minutes north of Canggu.
It’s gained popularity over the years thanks to the palm trees that line the sandy shores. But I still consider it off the beaten path as many people don’t venture this far out of Canngu.
13. Goa Lawag Temple
Goa Lawag Temple is a beautiful temple that’s home to a small cave full of bats. It’s a religious monument and a site for many traditional ceremonies, including Balinese cremation rituals.
Remember to be respectful and cover your legs and shoulders when entering any religious sites in Bali.
Not-so-hidden gems in Bali
I’m including this section because I feel that many places that were once considered hidden places in Bali are no longer so.
Melasti Beach
With a new beach club right on the beachfront, there’s no way Melasti Beach will maintain the off the beaten track appeal it once had.
There’s massive development in the area, and builders are excavating the entire cliff to create roads that are sure to cater to high-end hotel chains and resorts.
Having said that, I love Melasti Beach. It’s one of my favorite beaches in Uluwatu, as the water is sparkling shades of turquoise, and the sand is incredibly soft.
To get away from the crowds, walk further away from the beach, and you’ll find a small warung where you can hang out and rent a sun lounger.
But it’s certainly not off the beaten path in Bali.
Pemuteran (West Bali)
The fishing village of Pemuteran was another stop on my overland trip from Bali to Java. It’s conveniently situated on the north coast of West Bali, close to the West Bali National Park and Menjangan Island.
I was pretty excited to check out this supposedly hidden gem in Bali. But unfortunately, I was underwhelmed. Whilst I enjoy visiting black sand beaches, I found this to be too rocky and extremely polluted.
It’s a fishing village, so don’t expect the same scenery you’d find at one of the more tropical beaches on the island. I only recommend a stay here if you happen to be planning a trip to this side of the island.
I did, however, discover the absolute best place to eat in Pemuteran: Warung Setia. The food is incredible and well worth a visit, even if you’re just driving through the village.
Gili Islands: Once a hidden place in Bali
The Gili Islands, found just off the coast of Bali, are another one of my favorite places to visit. But, just because they’re my favorite, it doesn’t mean that they’re Bali hidden gems.
Because they aren’t!
Gili Trawangan attracts scores of backpackers and has a festive nightlife scene. On the other hand, Gili Meno and Gili Air are far more relaxed and attract a mature crowd and honeymooners.
There are no motorized vehicles allowed on the islands, and the only way to get around is to walk or ride a bicycle.
Overall, the atmosphere on the Gili’s is so different from that of Bali, and whilst it isn’t quite as remote as the likes of Sidemen or Munduk, the islands have a unique charm that’s worth checking out if you have time.
Nusa Penida
Just a 30-minute boat ride from Bali, Nusa Penida is the biggest of the 3 Nusa Islands. It’s home to the iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff and Kelingking Beach.
It’s the go-to island for backpackers, and many tourists include a day trip to Nusa Penida as part of their Bali itinerary.
Previously – before Nusa Penida became an overnight sensation – there were no proper roads, and getting around the island was difficult, which just added to that off-the-beaten-track vibe.
But things have since changed, and Nusa Penida is now one of the most popular places to visit in Bali.
Ferries are constantly making their way back and forth between Bali and Nusa Penida, bringing scores of tourists with them. It’s also a lot easier to travel around the island as the roads have been improved. As a result, there’s traffic and congestion at all of the tourist sites.
If you choose to visit Nusa Penida, ensure you spend a few nights here as it’s a hot spot for day tours from Bali and gets super crowded from 10 am-4 pm. Thereafter, you can enjoy the island pretty much crowd-free!
Pinggan Village Viewpoint
Pinggan Village Viewpoint offers some of the best views of Mount Batur and Mount Agung! It’s hard to beat a sunrise here.
There are many viewpoints along the road going to Pinggin Village. These were once considered secret spots in Bali but no longer hold that title.
However, it is a beautiful place and worthy of a visit if you’re in the area.
Tegal Wangi Beach Cave
I mistakenly came across Tegal Wangi Beach and was told it’s home to a beautiful cave. According to many travel blogs, this so-called cave is a hidden gem in Uluwatu.
This is a prime example of what photography can do. If you’re expecting a deep, dark cave, you will be disappointed. It’s more like an arch on the cliff!
If you take a photo from the right angle, it gives the impression that the picture is taken from the inside of a massive cave – which it isn’t.
I was slightly disappointed about the “cave” thing but super impressed with the natural formations and beauty of Tegal Wangi Beach.
The area surrounding Pantai Tegal Wangi is arguably one of the least developed areas in the Bukit Peninsula so it’s still worthy of a visit.
Wanagiri Hidden Hill
Located in north Bali, just a short drive from Munduk, lies Wanagiri Hidden Hill. As the name suggests, it’s supposedly a hidden spot. But it’s not!
The road leading to this viewpoint overlooks the twin lakes where selfie parks have been created to serve the needs of Instagrammers and couples looking to get that perfect picture.
Here, you can take snaps in birds’ nests, life-size hearts, eggs (yes!), extended bridges, and the famous Munduk swing.
On the bright side, these viewpoints aren’t nearly as busy as those in Ubud or on the south coast of Bali.
Penglipuran Village
Penglipuran Village is a picturesque Balinese village. The well-preserved narrow streets are lined with beautiful local houses and traditional architecture.
It was once one of Bali’s best kept secrets but is now a top tourist attraction. Many private tours and group buses stop here (you can view these tours here). If you arrive at the same time, you’ll find yourself caught up in the crowds.
If you’re going to make the effort, I recommend arriving before 8 am as it gets busy from then on.
Bukit Cinta
Bukit Cinta is a beautiful viewpoint offering the best views of Mount Agung. But it’s no longer a secret spot and is one of the most photographed locations in Bali.
Fences have been put up to stop tourists from entering, but you get equally impressive views from the road.
More hidden gems in Indonesia
Bali is the crown jewel of Indonesia. Despite the number of travelers visiting the island, it is possible to avoid the crowds if you go off the beaten track.
If these hidden gems of Bali aren’t quite as remote as you were hoping for, then I suggest that you look a bit further off the coastline and book a quick (and cheap) flight to one of these nearby islands. Here, you’ll set your sights on some of the most iconic landmarks of Indonesia.
Lombok
Kuta in Lombok (not Kuta in Bali) is one of my favorite places to explore. The beaches are incredible, there’s not much development going on, and it’s pretty remote.
The rugged and raw coastline makes Lombok an adventurer’s dream destination without being too rural, and there are several awesome beach bars and cafes that are well worth a visit.
Flores Island
If you’re looking for a true adventure, head to Flores Island. Make sure you go further than just Labuan Bajo and the Komodo Islands.
Flores has so much to offer, from the incredible volcano hiking up Mount Inerie (with no one else in sight) to snorkeling at 17 Islands Marine Park in Riung.
You’ll be discovering hidden gems with very few other tourists, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for Indonesia.
READ MORE: THE PERFECT 3 WEEK INDONESIA ITINERARY
Sumba Island
A trip to Sumba is only recommended for the adventurous souls looking to truly go off the beaten track.
I’m talking no Wi-Fi, no electricity, and no running water – this is the way I experienced Sumba Island, and I loved every minute of it!
Lakey Peak in Sumbawa
Long known as a surfer hotspot, Lakey Peak is one of those destinations where you can switch off completely. No resorts, no fancy restaurants, and no crowds.
Whilst the beach isn’t quite as picturesque as those in Bali or Lombok, the vast landscapes and remote atmosphere make it an awesome place to visit. I’m no surfer, but I absolutely loved this hidden gem on the east coast of Sumbawa.
Red Island in Java
Java Island is yet another crowd favorite in Indonesia. With cascading waterfalls and majestic volcanoes, what’s not to love?
On the east of Java lies a hidden gem, Red Island, or Pulau Merah.
Getting here is a journey in itself. In my search to go off the beaten path in Bali, I drove overland to Java and headed to Red Island. I spent a few days exploring the coastline and lazing on the beautiful beach, sipping on coconuts (and Bintangs, of course!)
How to go off the beaten track in Bali
The best way to explore is to rent a scooter in Bali and go on a mission to find these hidden gems. You’re bound to find a few more while you’re at it!
But riding a scooter isn’t always possible if you’re traveling in a big group or with your family. If this is the case, get a driver and car for the day
. This will allow you to come and go as you please and not be restricted to your guest house.
If you go off the beaten track in Bali, you’ll notice that online ride apps such as Grab and GoJek aren’t common in non-touristy areas, and if you rely on this to get around, you could be waiting a long time to get to your destination.
Whilst there are regular taxis around, they’re not as common, and you may struggle to find one, especially in the more remote areas.
Click here for reliable transport in Bali.
Thoughts on discovering Bali’s hidden gems
I hope I’ve convinced you that it’s possible to go off the beaten track in Bali to explore parts of the island that are far off the standard tourist path.
Whilst it’s not quite undiscovered territory, there are parts of Bali that still resemble how the island once was, before the crowds.
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Psst… Planning your trip to Indonesia? Check out my other posts!
- The Ultimate 3 Week Bali Itinerary
- 60+ Things to Add to Your Bali Packing List
- 12 Best Beaches in Uluwatu
- Komodo Diving Liveaboard: A Guide To Diving Komodo
- The Perfect 3 Day Ubud Itinerary
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Love these suggestions thank you – I’m going to Bali for a third time soon and your post have a lot of gems in it that I haven’t explored yet so saving it for my trip planning for sure! I didn’t know Bali has a black sand beach and really appreciate your tip for why this rice terrace is the better one to visit.
I also only discovered some of these hidden gems after my third trip to Bali! Definitely include a few of them in your itinerary. Have fun!
You’re making me miss Bali with this post! I loved Munduk and Uluwatu, but I totally need to go back and see the rest of these places. Also, your photos are absolutely beautiful. 🙂
How incredible is Munduk! There’s really so much to see if you go off the beaten track.
Wow I loved this guide, it covers lovely places that I would love to visit sometime
Thanks Madhu!
I would head straight to the ride terrace! Wow. It is simply gorgeous. So many beautiful hidden gems in Bali!
Aren’t they stunning!
Excellent post! I’ve always wanted to go to Bali. Your photos are great too!
Thanks Krystianna.