The Ultimate Road Trip Guide to Bali – Scenic Routes & Best Stops

A road trip across Bali is one of the best ways to explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse culture, and hidden gems. Unlike sticking to one area, driving around Bali allows you to experience everything from iconic beaches and sacred temples to lush jungles and waterfalls.

Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or pure relaxation, this ultimate Bali road trip guide covers the most scenic routes and best stops for an unforgettable journey!

1. Essential Tips for a Smooth Bali Road Trip

Before hitting the road, here are a few must-know tips to make your journey safe and hassle-free.

Driving in Bali – What You Need to Know

• Scooter or Car? If you’re comfortable riding a scooter, it’s the cheapest and easiest way to explore Bali. For long distances or group travel, rent a private car with a driver for convenience.
• International Driving Permit (IDP) – Required if you plan to self-drive a scooter or car.
• Traffic Conditions – Bali’s roads can be chaotic, especially in Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud, so drive cautiously.
• Fuel & Gas Stations – Petrol is cheap in Bali (IDR 10,000 per liter or $0.70 USD), but gas stations are rare in remote areas, so fill up before heading into the countryside.

Packing Essentials for a Bali Road Trip

✔ Sunscreen and sunglasses for long sunny rides.
✔ Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
✔ Offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) in case of poor signal.
✔ Rain poncho (especially if traveling during rainy season).
✔ Power bank for charging your phone on the go.

2. Bali’s Best Road Trip Routes & Must-Visit Stops

Route 1: South Bali Beach Hop (Seminyak – Uluwatu – Nusa Dua)

Distance: ~50 km | Duration: 1-2 days

If you love beaches, surf spots, and stunning cliffside views, this South Bali route is perfect for a short and scenic road trip.

Must-Visit Stops:

• Seminyak Beach & Café Brunch – Start your day with brunch at Sisterfields before relaxing at Seminyak Beach.
• Padang Padang Beach – A hidden cove with crystal-clear water, made famous by Eat, Pray, Love.
• Uluwatu Temple & Sunset Kecak Dance – One of Bali’s most iconic temples, perched on a dramatic cliffside.
• Melasti Beach – A secluded, white-sand paradise with towering cliffs.
• Nusa Dua Water Blow – Witness waves crashing against the cliffs, creating a natural water explosion.

Local Tip: Stay overnight in Uluwatu and enjoy dinner at The Edge or Rock Bar, both offering cliffside dining with insane ocean views.

Route 2: The Cultural Heart of Bali (Ubud – Tegalalang – Kintamani – Besakih Temple)

Distance: ~100 km | Duration: 2-3 days

This route is perfect for those who love culture, nature, and traditional Balinese villages.

Must-Visit Stops:

• Sacred Monkey Forest (Ubud) – Explore an ancient jungle temple, home to playful monkeys.
• Tegalalang Rice Terraces – One of Bali’s most famous landscapes, offering breathtaking sunrise views.
• Kintamani & Mount Batur – Enjoy lunch with a view of an active volcano at Lakeview Restaurant.
• Tirta Empul Temple – Experience a traditional Balinese purification ritual in holy water pools.\
• Besakih Temple (The Mother Temple of Bali) – The largest and most important Hindu temple in Bali, located on the slopes of Mount Agung.

Local Tip: Stay overnight in Kintamani to enjoy a sunrise trek at Mount Batur, followed by breakfast cooked in volcanic steam.

Route 3: East Bali’s Hidden Gems (Sidemen – Tirta Gangga – Amed – Lempuyang Temple)

Distance: ~120 km | Duration: 2-3 days

For a more peaceful and off-the-beaten-path road trip, East Bali offers untouched landscapes, ancient temples, and quiet beach towns.

Must-Visit Stops:

• Sidemen Village – Experience authentic Balinese countryside, with lush rice fields and traditional weaving villages.
• Tirta Gangga Water Palace – A stunning royal water garden filled with stone carvings and fish-filled ponds.
• Amed Beach – A black-sand beach famous for snorkeling, diving, and shipwreck exploration.
• Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven) – One of Bali’s most photogenic temples, offering a breathtaking view of Mount Agung.

Local Tip: East Bali is less developed, so fill up on fuel before heading into the region.

Route 4: Bali’s Waterfall Trail (Munduk – Sekumpul – Aling-Aling – Banyumala)

Distance: ~130 km | Duration: 2-3 days

If you love hiking and chasing waterfalls, this North Bali road trip is a dream come true!

Must-Visit Stops:

• Munduk Village – A cool mountain retreat with stunning coffee plantations.
• Sekumpul Waterfall – One of Bali’s most breathtaking waterfalls, hidden deep in the jungle.
• Aling-Aling Waterfall – Offers natural slides and cliff-jumping pools.
• Banyumala Twin Waterfalls – A secluded, picture-perfect twin waterfall.

Local Tip: The roads in North Bali are steep and winding, so drive cautiously and start early to avoid crowds.

Route 5: The Ultimate Island Escape (Nusa Penida Road Trip)

Distance: ~50 km | Duration: 1-2 days

For those willing to venture beyond mainland Bali, Nusa Penida offers some of the most jaw-dropping coastal landscapes in Indonesia.

Must-Visit Stops:

• Kelingking Beach – Bali’s famous "T-Rex" cliff formation with turquoise waters.
• Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong – Natural rock formations with crystal-clear infinity pools.
• Diamond Beach – A hidden paradise with white sand and dramatic cliffs.

Local Tip: Rent a scooter in Nusa Penida, but be prepared for rough, rocky roads!

Choose Your Bali Road Trip Adventure!

A Bali road trip is one of the best ways to explore the island at your own pace, uncover hidden gems, and experience stunning natural beauty. Whether you prefer beach-hopping, cultural sightseeing, jungle adventures, or island escapes, there’s a perfect scenic route for you.

Quick Road Trip Recommendations:

• Best for Beach Lovers: South Bali Beach Hop
• Best for Cultural Experiences: Ubud & Kintamani Route
• Best for Nature & Waterfalls: North Bali Waterfall Trail
• Best for Remote Escapes: East Bali Hidden Gems
• Best for Adventure Seekers: Nusa Penida

For a stress-free Bali road trip, book a private car or guided tour with Bali Gate Tours, ensuring you experience the best scenic routes without the hassle of planning!