If you're looking for the perfect short family getaway from Singapore, look no further than the captivating island of Bali. Nestled just a short flight away (less than 3 hours of flight time), Bali offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and family-friendly experiences that will create unforgettable memories for you and your little ones. In this comprehensive travel guide catered to families with kids, we will provide you with all the essential information and insider tips to plan your dream vacation to Bali.
Must-Haves Packing List for Traveling to Bali
Here are some necessities you must have in your luggage:
Passports & travel documents
Travel adaptors
Portable power bank
Reminder: Do NOT pack in check-in luggage.
Medications
Mosquito repellent
Sunscreen
Hat and sunglasses
Swimming costumes
First-aid Kit
Sufficient wet wipes and diapers
To ensure a smooth trip with your little ones, do consider bringing the following travel gear:
Stroller (optional)
Tip: Bali is a family-friendly travel destination, with stroller and baby equipment rental services to relieve your travel packing list. Check out Bali Bubs or Eve Baby Care for more information.
Baby Carrier
Tip: Get a foldable carrier that is less bulky, and can be easily kept in your nursery bag.
Read our article on Ultimate Packing Checklist for Travelling with Toddlers for a more extensive checklist!
Best Apps to Download when Travelling to Bali
When travelling to Bali, it's always helpful to have the right apps on your mobile device to enhance your experience and make your trip more convenient.
Here are the 8 best apps to download before your Bali trip:
1. Grab (iOS/Android)
Grab is a widely used ride-hailing app in Bali. It allows you to easily book taxis, motorbike taxis (a.k.a. ojeks), and car services, ensuring reliable and convenient transportation around the island.
2. Gojek (iOS/Android)
Gojek is another popular app for transportation in Bali. In addition to ride-hailing services, Gojek provides a wide range of on-demand services, such as food delivery, grocery shopping, and even massages.
3. Google Maps (iOS/Android)
Google Maps is an essential app for navigation. It provides accurate maps, real-time traffic updates, and directions to help you find your way around Bali. You can also use it to explore nearby attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest.
4. Klook (iOS/Android)
Klook is a popular travel booking app that offers a wide range of activities, tours, and attractions in Bali. You can find discounted tickets, skip-the-line passes, and convenient package deals for various popular destinations and experiences.
5. Eatigo (iOS/Android)
Eatigo is a dining app that offers discounted restaurant reservations in Bali. It allows you to find and book restaurants at specific time slots, often with significant discounts, making it a great way to save money while enjoying Bali's vibrant culinary scene.
6. Zomato (iOS/Android)
Zomato is a food and restaurant discovery app that provides comprehensive information, menus, and user reviews for various eateries in Bali. It's a useful tool to explore dining options, discover local cuisine, and find restaurants that suit your preferences.
7. AccuWeather (iOS/Android)
AccuWeather provides accurate and detailed weather forecasts for Bali. It helps you plan your activities and pack accordingly, ensuring you're prepared for the current and upcoming weather conditions.
8. Google Translate (iOS/Android)
Google Translate is a valuable app for overcoming language barriers. It can translate text, speech, and even images, allowing you to communicate more effectively with locals or understand signs and menus in Indonesian.
Remember to download these apps before your trip and ensure that you have internet access or a local SIM card to use them while in Bali. Having these apps handy will make your travel experience in Bali more enjoyable, convenient, and seamless.
Best Season to Travel to Bali
Bali offers pleasant weather and attractions year-round, however, certain times of the year may be more suitable for a family vacation. Here's a guide to help you determine the best time to travel to Bali with your family:
Dry Season
The dry season in Bali generally runs from April to October, making it an ideal time to visit for a family vacation. During these months, you can expect sunny days, lower humidity levels, and minimal rainfall. The pleasant weather allows you to explore Bali's stunning beaches, partake in outdoor activities, and visit popular attractions comfortably.
July and August
July and August are peak months in Bali due to the summer holidays in many countries. Expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time. However, these months also offer the advantage of vibrant festivals and cultural events that your family can enjoy, such as the Bali Kite Festival and various temple ceremonies.
Mid-Season
The shoulder months of April, May, September, and October are great alternatives for a family vacation in Bali. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and tourist crowds are thinner compared to the peak season. This means you can explore popular attractions, such as Ubud's Monkey Forest or Tanah Lot Temple, without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.
Avoiding Rainy Season
Bali's rainy season typically occurs between November and March. While the island's tropical climate means that rain showers can occur even during the dry season, the rainy season experiences more frequent and intense rainfall. Planning your family vacation outside of this period will help ensure better weather and more outdoor activities for your family to enjoy.
Balinese Festivals
Bali is renowned for its colourful festivals and cultural celebrations. If you're interested in immersing your family in the local culture, plan your trip around significant Balinese festivals like Nyepi (Balinese New Year) or Galungan. These festivals offer unique cultural experiences, processions, and traditional rituals that can provide lasting memories for your family.
Guide to Travelling around Bali
When planning a family vacation in Bali, it's essential to consider transportation options to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some transportation tips to help you navigate the island:
Airport Transfers
Recommendation: KKday
Price: Prices for airport transfers start from around SGD 10.40, depending on the destination and vehicle type.
KKday offers private airport transfer services from Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport to various destinations in Bali. They provide a range of vehicles, including cars, vans, and minibuses, with the option of child seat - suitable for families of different sizes.
Renting a Car
Recommendation: Klook
Price: Rental prices start from approximately SGD 68 per day, depending on the car type, duration, and rental company.
Hiring a Driver
Recommendation: Klook
Price: Prices for a (6 hour) full-day driver service, for group of 3, starts from around SGD 36, depending on the duration and itinerary.
Description: Klook provides private driver services with English-speaking drivers who can guide your family around Bali. They offer various tour packages and can customize the itinerary based on your preferences.
Local Transportation Apps
Recommendation: Grab
Price: Prices depend on the distance and type of vehicle chosen, with upfront fare estimates provided by the app.
Description: Grab is a popular ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia, including Bali. It offers car and motorbike taxi services, providing a convenient and safe way to book transportation. Download the Grab app on your mobile device before arriving in Bali to easily book rides during your stay.
Please note that prices are approximate and subject to change. It's always advisable to check the respective websites or contact the service providers directly for the most up-to-date information regarding pricing, availability, and booking details.
Best Accommodations in Bali
Book a kid-friendly accommodation that caters to the needs of you and your child. Here are some recommendations to consider when visiting Bali:
Staying in Seminyak / Kuta / Legian
Hotel Komune Bali
Price Range: SGD 70 - SGD 150 per night
Location: Keramas, Gianyar
Nearby Attractions: Keramas Beach, Bali Safari and Marine Park
The Haven Bali Seminyak
Price Range: SGD 80 - SGD 180 per night
Location: Seminyak
Nearby Attractions: Seminyak Beach, Waterbom Bali
Bali Dynasty Resort
Price Range: SGD 100 - SGD 300 per night
Location: South Kuta
Nearby Attractions: Waterbom Bali, Circus Waterpark
Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali
Price Range: SGD 120 - SGD 250 per night
Location: Kuta
Nearby Attractions: Kuta Beach, Waterbom Bali
Bali Garden Beach Resort
Price Range: SGD 130 - SGD 300 per night
Location: South Kuta
Nearby Attractions: Kuta Beach, Waterbom Bali
Bali Dynasty Resort Hotel
Price Range: SGD 150 - SGD 400 per night
Location: South Kuta
Nearby Attractions: Waterbom Bali, Circus Waterpark
Hard Rock Hotel Bali
Price Range: SGD 150 - SGD 400 per night
Location: Kuta
Nearby Attractions: Kuta Beach, Beachwalk Shopping Center
Staying in Jimbaran Bay
Ayana Resort and Spa Bali
Price Range: SGD 250 - SGD 700 per night
Location: Jimbaran
Nearby Attractions: Jimbaran Beach, Rock Bar Bali
Staying in Ubud
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Price Range: SGD 800 - SGD 1,500 per night
Location: Ubud
Nearby Attractions: Ubud Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Staying in Nusa Dua
Sol Beach House Bali Benoa
Price Range: SGD 120 - SGD 250 per night
Location: Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua
Nearby Attractions: Nusa Dua Beach, Museum Pasifika
The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali
Price Range: SGD 200 - SGD 500 per night
Location: Nusa Dua
Nearby Attractions: Nusa Dua Beach, Bali Nusa Dua Theatre
Conrad Bali
Price Range: SGD 300 - SGD 700 per night
Location: Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua
Nearby Attractions: Nusa Dua Beach, Bali Collection Shopping Centre
Grand Hyatt Bali
Price Range: SGD 400 - SGD 800 per night
Location: Nusa Dua
Nearby Attractions: Nusa Dua Beach, Bali National Golf Club
Staying in Sanur
The Oasis Lagoon Sanur
Price Range: SGD 150 - SGD 300 per night
Location: Sanur
Nearby Attractions: Sanur Beach, Le Mayeur Museum
These family-friendly accommodations offer a range of amenities including pools, kids' clubs, and proximity to popular attractions in Bali. However, it's recommended to visit the respective websites or contact the accommodations directly for the most up-to-date information on their family-friendly services and offerings.
Tip: Inquire about baby cot availability, additional baby-friend amenities and any associated fees when making your reservation.
Best family-friendly Restaurants in Bali
Family-friendly Restaurants in Seminyak
Warung Babi Guling Pak Malen
Price Range: SGD 5 - SGD 10 per person
Cuisine: Balinese food, Warung
Location: Seminyak
Naughty Nuri's Warung
Price Range: SGD 10 - SGD 20 per person
Cuisine: BBQ Ribs, Indonesian food
Location: Seminyak
Warung Sopa
Price Range: SGD 10 - SGD 20 per person
Cuisine: Vegetarian, Vegan, Indonesian food
Location: Seminyak
Spice by Chris Salans
Price Range: SGD 30 - SGD 60 per person
Cuisine: Balinese food, Indonesian food, International
Location: Seminyak
Warung Eny
Price Range: SGD 15 - SGD 30 per person
Cuisine: Balinese food, Indonesian food
Location: Seminyak
Family-friendly Restaurants in Ubud
Warung Wardani
Price Range: SGD 5 - SGD 10 per person
Cuisine: Balinese food, Warung
Location: Ubud
Warung Dedari
Price Range: SGD 10 - SGD 20 per person
Cuisine: Balinese food, Indonesian food
Location: Ubud
Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner)
Price Range: SGD 15 - SGD 30 per person
Cuisine: Balinese food, International
Location: Ubud
Mozaic Restaurant Gastronomique
Price Range: SGD 100 - SGD 200 per person
Cuisine: Fine Dining, Balinese food, French cuisine
Location: Ubud
Family-friendly Restaurant in Sanur
Warung Mak Beng
Price Range: SGD 15 - SGD 30 per person
Cuisine: Balinese food, Seafood
Location: Sanur
Family-friendly Restaurant in Nusa Dua
Bumbu Bali
Price Range: SGD 20 - SGD 40 per person
Cuisine: Balinese food, Indonesian food
Location: Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua
Things to do in Bali
Bali offers a plethora of exciting and diverse activities for visitors of all ages. From stunning beaches to vibrant cultural experiences, Bali has something for everyone. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this enchanting island has it all. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, explore ancient temples, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, or engage in thrilling water sports. Here are some of the top things to do in Bali, ensuring an unforgettable experience for you and your family.
Learn to surf
Learn to surf in one day and catch the Bali waves at Kuta Beach, Jimbaran Bay or other beautiful Bali shores - perfect for beginners. Available in group or private classes.
Price range: From SGD 17
Location: Various beaches
Bali Safari and Marine Park
Experience a safari adventure and get up close with various animals, including lions, elephants, and zebras.
Price Range: SGD 30 - SGD 60 per person
Location: Gianyar
Waterbom Bali
Enjoy a day of water fun at this popular water park featuring thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and water playgrounds for kids.
Price Range: SGD 40 - SGD 70 per person
Location: Kuta
Bali Zoo
Visit the Bali Zoo to see a wide range of animals, participate in feeding sessions, and even have breakfast with orangutans.
Price Range: SGD 50 - SGD 80 per person
Location: Gianyar
Bali Bird Park
Explore a beautiful park filled with exotic birds from around the world, watch bird shows, and interact with friendly parrots.
Price Range: SGD 50 - SGD 80 per person
Location: Gianyar
Bali Hai Cruise to Nusa Lembongan
Hop on a cruise to the beautiful island of Nusa Lembongan, where you can enjoy water activities, beach clubs, and a BBQ lunch.
Price Range: SGD 100 - SGD 200 per person
Location: Benoa Harbour
Bali Seawalker at Sanur Beach
Discover the underwater world without diving skills by walking along the ocean floor with a helmet providing a constant supply of air.
Price Range: SGD 150 - SGD 250 per person
Location: Sanur
Please note that prices are approximate and may vary. It's recommended to check the websites or contact the activity providers directly for the most up-to-date information on prices, availability, and any age restrictions.
Diaper changing facilities & Nursing Rooms in Bali
Baby changing rooms are rare in Bali. Hence, it’s a good idea to bring a diaper bag with all the diaper essentials, such as portable changing pads, wet wipes, diapers, and extra set of clothes, wherever you go. Nursing rooms are uncommon in Bali, so nursing moms should consider bringing their own nursing covers for privacy.
Time For An Adventure!
With its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and wide range of family-friendly activities, it’s no wonder that Bali is on your family’s travel bucket list. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready for an incredible family getaway to Bali, where lifelong memories are waiting to be made.
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