11 Epic Bali Day Trips from Bingin & Uluwatu

Uluwatu and Bingin are pretty hard to leave - we get it. But if you're up for a big day out, Bali’s got some serious adventures waiting beyond the Bukit. Think jungle waterfalls, wild water slides, snorkeling with mantas, rafting through lush river canyons, and more. Just a heads-up: traffic can be hectic in Bali. But if you're willing to commit to a few hours in the car (or boat), these day trips are absolutely worth it. The best move? Hit the road early morning will give you the best chance of avoiding the chaos and making the most of your day.

1. Snorkelling or Diving at Nusa Lembongan / Nusa Penida

Crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and (if you’re lucky) manta rays! A fast boat from Sanur gets you to Lembongan in about 30 minutes, where you can hop on a private snorkelling trip or just chill on island time. For diving, head to Penida for famous sites like Manta Point and Crystal Bay.

  • Travel time from Bingin/Uluwatu: ≈45–60 min drive to Sanur + 30 min boat
  • Our tip: Book a private trip from Lembongan for flexibility and avoid the packed Penida tour circuit. 

2. Waterfalls near Ubud

Lush jungle, fresh water, and iconic photo ops—these three waterfalls are perfect for a cool dip and a bit of exploration. Closest for a day trip are Tegenungan, Kanto Lampo, and Tibumana are all within 30–40 minutes of each other, so you can visit one or do a full loop if you’re up for it. 

  • Travel time from Bingin/Uluwatu: ≈2hr drive each way.
  • Our tip: Leave early to beat the crowds. Add on a visit to the rice fields, or temple visit. 

3. Waterbom Water Park

Epic slides, tropical gardens, super clean – Waterbom isn’t just for kids. Spend the day flying down slides, floating the lazy river, or posted up with snacks and cocktails in the shade. It’s fun, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. 

  • Travel time from Bingin/Uluwatu: ≈60+ min drive each way.
  • Our tip: Arrive early and book a cabana if you plan to stay all day.

4.White Water Rafting the Ayung River ​

Float and paddle through jungle cliffs, waterfalls, and breathtaking narrow canyon sections. It’s super fun, safe, and at times, surprisingly peaceful. A great way to see another part of Bali. 

  • Travel time: ≈ 2.5 hr drive each way
  • Our tip: Bring a dry change of clothes and waterproof phone case.

5. Cultural Village Cycling Tour

Photo (L) DWG Bali Trans | (R) SeekSophie.com

Ride through rice paddies, local villages, and temple-lined back roads with a local guide. These cycling tours are low-impact, mostly downhill, and a great way to get a feel for Bali’s slower pace of life. Expect friendly locals, scenic views, and maybe a coconut or two along the way.

  • Travel time: ≈ 2+ hr drive each way
  • Our tip: Morning tours are cooler and quieter. Often combined with a Balinese lunch and optional activities like horse riding or cooking classes.

Prefer an engine over pedals? Check out an ATV quad bike tour for a high-adrenaline spin through jungle tracks, rivers, and rugged backcountry.

6. Horse Riding on the Beach

Walk, trot or canter along black-sand beaches, through rice fields, rivers, and along quiet coastline. It’s scenic, calm, and a different way to explore beautiful Bali. Morning or sunset rides are best for cooler temps and golden light.

  • Travel time: ≈2.5 hr drive each way
  • Our tip: If choosing Saba Bay/Keramas, pair it with poolside hangs at Komune Beach Club. If you’re heading to the Kedungu area, pop into Little Ripper for a killer coffee and delish food.

7. Mt Batur Sunrise Hike

To be honest, we recommend this one if you’re staying closer to Batur, or somewhere around Ubud. But it can still be done! If you’re up for a 1am departure from Uluwatu, this one’s great. Hike under the stars, reach the summit before sunrise, and watch Bali light up below you. Bonus: hot springs nearby for a post-hike soak.

  • Travel time: ≈2.5 hr drive each way
  • Our tip: Bring layers! It’s cold up top before the sun comes up.

8. Fishing Trip – Deep Sea or Coastal

For something a bit different, spend a day on the water chasing mahi-mahi, tuna, or snapper. Bali offers both deep sea sport fishing and more relaxed coastal trips. Most include all the gear, a local crew, and the chance to grill your catch.

  • Travel time: ≈45–60 min drive to Sanur, Serangan, or Jimbaran (though some trips leave from closer to home)
  • Our tip: Morning departures give you the calmest seas and best bite. We often connect guests with a friendly local fisherman from Bingin who offers laid-back, no-fuss trips straight from the beach.

9. A Day in Ubud

Ubud and the surrounds are definitely worth it—just go early and don’t try to see everything! Some options: wander the art market, visit the Monkey Forest, explore rice paddies, and check out temples like Goa Gajah or Tirta Empul. Pop into Threads of Life for traditional textiles, join a batik class, or swing by Gaya Ceramic for beautiful handmade pottery. Grab lunch at a jungle-view café, and if you’re feeling energetic, tack on a waterfall or coffee stop. 

  • Travel time: ≈2 hrs each way
  • Our tip: Leave early and keep your itinerary light. Ubud traffic can be hectic. 

10. Shopping for Souvenirs in Kuta, Legian, or Seminyak

If you’re ready for a retail fix, Jl Raya Legian and the streets off it (like Jl Padma, Jl Werkudara, and Jl Arjuna) are your go-to zones. You’ll find boutique fashion, handmade homewares, and souvenirs you’ll actually want to keep—woven bags, wood carvings, incense, island-style jewellery, and local brands reworking traditional Balinese designs. Most shops are locally owned, so your spend supports Balinese makers and small businesses.

  • Travel time: ≈1.5 hrs (go early to beat traffic)
  • Our tip: Many prices aren’t fixed, so don’t be afraid to bargain – but keep it fun, friendly, and respectful. Smile, have a laugh. A happy attitude goes a long way (and gets you better deals). No one likes a pushy tourist!

11. South Coast Beaches – Nusa Dua & Geger

If the steps to Uluwatu’s beaches are getting a bit much, head east. Nusa Dua and Geger beaches are flat, easy to access, and perfect for a more relaxed beach day. The water’s reef-protected – calm, clear, and great for swimming.

  • Travel time: ≈45 mins
  • Tip: Geger is a local favourite with warungs right on the sand, or make it fancy with brunch at one of the beachfront 5 star hotels or beach clubs. You could even tie in a Cooking class at the famous Bumbu Bali Cooking School. 

For more info on the best beaches in the area – check out our Best Beaches list, and our guide to the best Beach Clubs in Uluwatu.

**Combo Days: Double the Adventure**

Many of these experiences can be combined into one big day. Tour operators often offer packaged trips that include two or more activities—ideal if you’re up for it and want to get the most out of your time away from the Bukit. Some popular combos:

  • White Water Rafting + ATV Ride
  • Village Cycle Tour & Ubud Markets
  • Waterfall Tour + Cooking Class
  • Waterbom + Shopping Day 
  • Ubud Temple + Coffee Tasting + Rice Terraces
  • Snorkelling + Island Tour (Nusa Lembongan/ Nusa Penida)

Ask your driver, host, or book through a reputable guide, or use Airbnb Experiences. 

Did we miss anywhere? Let us know below!

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Boutique Accomodation in Uluwatu

Tucked away at the end of a quiet Bingin Beach laneway, Melali is an award winning boutique property perfect for travellers looking for a more intimate and authentic Bali stay. 

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