Bali just won big. It's the world's number one travel destination for 2026, according to TripAdvisor's Travellers' Choice Awards: Best of the Best. The
island topped the list after beating out huge names like London (last year's champ), Dubai, Hanoi, Paris, and Rome. TripAdvisor calls Bali a "living postcard." There are white-sand beaches, colorful coral reefs, and even old World War II shipwrecks to explore. And get this: It's only about 8 hours by flight from India, making it super easy for you to take a quick vacation.
What To See In Bali
Bali packs adventure, culture, and beaches into one island.
Seminyak and Kuta Beaches
These lively southern shores draw crowds for their powdery white sands and rolling waves, ideal for sunbathing, surfing beginners, or beach club vibes. Seminyak feels upscale with trendy cafes and sunset cocktails, while Kuta buzzes with nightlife and water sports rentals. Spend a day alternating swims in warm turquoise waters, beach volleyball, and fresh coconut drinks. Arrive early to snag a prime spot as it gets packed by afternoon.
Uluwatu Temple
Perched on 70-meter cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, this sacred 11th-century sea temple offers jaw-dropping sunsets and panoramic views that feel endless. Catch the nightly Kecak fire dance around 6 PM, where 50+ bare-chested performers chant "cak-cak" rhythms while dancing around flames—it's a hypnotic mix of mythology from the Ramayana epic, glowing against the golden sky. Watch for mischievous long-tailed macaques that snag glasses or phones (store shiny items safely), and wear a sarong to enter respectfully.
Ubud Monkey Forest
Nestled in Ubud's lush jungle heart, this 12-acre sanctuary is home to over 1,000 playful Balinese long-tailed monkeys and ancient moss-covered temples dating back to 1350. Wander shaded paths past towering banyan trees and stone carvings, hand-feeding bananas to the cheeky residents (they're wild, so stay alert). It's a serene yet fun intro to Bali's spiritual side. Combine it with nearby yoga sessions or a swing over the forest for Instagram gold.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
North of Ubud, these iconic emerald-green fields cascade down valleys like giant staircases, showcasing Bali's subak irrigation system—a UNESCO gem. Hike the bamboo paths or swing on giant nests overlooking the patchwork, breathing in coffee plantation scents and cool mountain air. Visit early morning for misty photos without crowds, and sip luwak coffee at roadside cafes—it's a peaceful spot to grasp rural Balinese life and snap those viral shots.
Nusa Penida Island
Hop a 45-minute speedboat from Bali for this rugged paradise's raw beauty: Kelingking Beach's T-Rex-shaped cliff plunges into azure waters, perfect for drone pics or tough hikes to hidden coves. Snorkel with manta rays at Crystal Bay or explore Broken Beach's natural arch—it's less crowded than mainland Bali, and is great for day trips. Rent a scooter for freedom, but roads are bumpy. Pack water and go at low tide for epic swims.
