The Best Budget-Friendly Activities to Do in Bali with Kids

Bali is a popular vacation spot for families, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. However, traveling with kids can be expensive, and finding budget-friendly activities is essential to make the most out of a family vacation.

In this article, we will explore some of the best budget-friendly activities that families can enjoy in Bali without breaking the bank. From exploring the island’s temples and rice terraces to sampling its delicious street food, there are plenty of activities that will keep kids entertained and engaged while also being affordable.

By seeking out budget-friendly activities, families can experience all that Bali has to offer without worrying about the cost. Whether you’re on a tight budget or just looking to save some money, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable family vacation in Bali that won’t break the bank.

Visiting Bali’s Beaches

Bali is known for its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for families to spend a day soaking up the sun and enjoying the warm waters. Here are some of Bali’s best beaches for families:

1. Kuta Beach: One of Bali’s most famous beaches, Kuta Beach is a popular spot for families. With plenty of restaurants, shops, and activities nearby, it’s easy to spend a day here. The beach is ideal for swimming, boogie boarding, and surfing, and there are plenty of places to rent equipment if needed.
2. Sanur Beach: A quieter option than Kuta, Sanur Beach is ideal for families looking to relax and enjoy the scenery. The shallow waters make it perfect for younger kids to play, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants along the beach for snacks and drinks.
3. Jimbaran Beach: Located near the airport, Jimbaran Beach is known for its beautiful sunsets and fresh seafood restaurants. Families can spend the day playing in the water and building sandcastles, then enjoy a delicious seafood dinner as the sun sets.

When visiting Bali’s beaches on a budget, it’s important to plan ahead and bring along some essentials. Here are some tips for enjoying Bali’s beaches on a budget:

• Bring your own snacks and drinks: Rather than buying food and drinks from beach vendors, pack your own snacks and drinks in a cooler. This will save you money and also ensure that you have healthy and tasty options available.
• Rent equipment if needed: If your family wants to try surfing, boogie boarding, or other water sports, look for rental shops on the beach. These can be much more affordable than buying new equipment.
• Take walks along the shore: One of the best things about Bali’s beaches is the beautiful scenery. Take a walk along the shore and enjoy the views, without spending any money.

Exploring Bali’s Temples

Bali is known for its beautiful temples, which are an important part of the island’s culture and history. Here are some of Bali’s most famous temples that families can explore:

1. Tanah Lot: Located on a rocky outcrop in the ocean, Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most iconic temples. Families can explore the temple and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
2. Uluwatu: Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, Uluwatu is another must-see temple in Bali. Families can watch traditional Balinese dance performances and enjoy the beautiful views.
3. Tirta Empul: Known for its holy spring water, Tirta Empul is a beautiful temple where families can participate in a purification ritual.

When visiting Bali’s temples on a budget, there are several ways families can save money:

• Hire a driver or take a public bus: Hiring a private driver can be expensive, but families can save money by taking a public bus or sharing a ride with other travelers.
• Bring snacks and water: Food and drinks at temple sites can be expensive, so it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and water.
• Avoid expensive souvenir shops: While souvenir shops can be tempting, the prices can be marked up significantly. Instead, encourage your kids to take photos and create their own memories of the trip.

Discovering Bali’s Rice Terraces

Bali’s rice terraces are some of the most beautiful landscapes on the island, and are a must-visit for families. Here are some of Bali’s most famous rice terraces:

1. Tegallalang: Located near Ubud, Tegallalang is one of Bali’s most popular rice terraces. The terraced rice fields are surrounded by lush greenery, and families can enjoy a leisurely walk or even try their hand at rice farming.
2. Jatiluwih: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jatiluwih is another stunning rice terrace in Bali. Families can hike through the rice fields and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
3. Sidemen: Located in East Bali, Sidemen is a lesser-known rice terrace that offers a more peaceful and authentic experience. Families can explore the rice fields and also visit nearby traditional villages.

When visiting Bali’s rice terraces on a budget, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Bring comfortable walking shoes: Exploring the rice terraces often involves walking up and down uneven terrain, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that provide good support.
• Pack a picnic lunch: There are often limited food options near the rice terraces, so it’s a good idea to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the beautiful surroundings.
• Avoid expensive guided tours: While guided tours can be helpful, they can also be expensive. Families can save money by exploring the rice terraces on their own, or by hiring a local guide for a more affordable price.

By following these tips, families can enjoy Bali’s rice terraces without breaking the bank, and experience some of the most stunning natural landscapes on the island.

Experiencing Bali’s Culture

Bali is known for its rich culture and traditions, and there are many cultural experiences that families can enjoy on a budget. Here are some recommendations:

1. Visiting Local Markets: Bali has many vibrant markets where families can experience the local culture and shop for souvenirs. Some popular markets include Ubud Market, Sukawati Art Market, and Kumbasari Market. To save money, families can try bargaining with vendors for better prices, and avoid buying souvenirs from touristy areas where prices are higher.
2. Attending a Balinese Dance Performance: Bali is famous for its traditional dance performances, which are a great way for families to experience the local culture. Some of the most popular performances include the Legong Dance and the Kecak Dance. Families can save money by attending free cultural events, such as those held at local temples or community centers.
3. Learning How to Make Offerings: Making offerings is an important part of Balinese culture, and families can learn how to make their own offerings at free workshops offered by local temples or cultural centers. This is a great way to learn more about Balinese customs and traditions, and to experience the local culture firsthand.

When experiencing Bali’s culture on a budget, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Bargain at markets: Many markets in Bali allow for bargaining, so families should not be afraid to negotiate for better prices.
• Attend free events: Bali has many free cultural events, such as temple festivals and community performances, that families can attend to experience the local culture without spending money.
• Take advantage of free workshops: Many cultural centers and temples offer free workshops on Balinese traditions and customs, which can be a great way for families to learn more about the local culture.

Trying Bali’s Street Food

Bali has a vibrant street food scene, with many delicious and affordable options for families to try. Here are some popular street foods that families can sample:

1. Satay: Satay is a popular Indonesian street food that consists of skewered and grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) served with a peanut sauce. Families can find satay stalls all over Bali, and it’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
2. Nasi Goreng: Nasi Goreng is a classic Indonesian fried rice dish that is often served with chicken or shrimp, vegetables, and a fried egg on top. It’s a filling and flavorful dish that families can find at many street food stalls and warungs (small local eateries) in Bali.
3. Babi Guling: Babi Guling is a Balinese specialty that consists of roasted suckling pig served with rice and traditional spices. While it’s not as widely available as some of the other street foods on this list, it’s definitely worth trying for families who want to experience the local cuisine.

When sampling street food in Bali on a budget, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid touristy areas: Street food stalls in touristy areas tend to be more expensive and cater to tourists, so families should venture off the beaten path to find more affordable options.
• Try new dishes in small portions: Instead of ordering a large portion of a dish you’ve never tried before, sample it in a smaller portion first to make sure you like it. This can help prevent food waste and save money.
• Ask locals for recommendations: Locals are often the best source of information when it comes to finding the best street food in Bali. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or follow the crowds to popular stalls.

In the conclusion of the article, the aim is to summarize the budget-friendly activities families can enjoy in Bali and encourage them to make lasting memories together. Here are some ideas:

• Summarize the main points of the article: In the conclusion, briefly summarize the main budget-friendly activities covered in the article. For example, mention that families can enjoy Bali’s beautiful beaches, explore its stunning temples, discover its rice terraces, experience its unique culture, and sample its delicious street food without spending a lot of money.
• Highlight the benefits of traveling on a budget: Traveling on a budget can be a great way for families to experience a new culture and make lasting memories without overspending. It can also help families to bond as they explore new places and try new things together.
• Encourage families to explore Bali: In the conclusion, encourage families to take advantage of the budget-friendly activities in Bali and explore all that the island has to offer. Remind them that the best way to make lasting memories is by immersing themselves in the local culture and experiencing new things together.
• Offer some final thoughts: In the conclusion, you can also offer some final thoughts on traveling with kids in Bali. For example, you could encourage families to take plenty of photos and videos to capture their memories, or suggest that they keep a journal or scrapbook of their trip to look back on in the future.