15 Hidden Gems in Bali, Indonesia: Top Off the Beaten Track Sights

by Indonesia, Instagram-Worthy7 comments

It’s no wonder that Bali in Indonesia remains to be a top tropical destination in the world — after all, there is always something for every kind of traveler. For starters, there are the popular Kuta and Legian areas that are perfect for surfing and nightlife. For some major R&R, there is always the option of retreating to the uplands of Ubud or just staying in a stylish villa in Seminyak to spend your afternoons doing shopping and cafe hopping. (Hidden Gems in Bali)

By now, you would have probably heard of a number of amazing Instagrammable spots all over Bali that you should NOT miss, namely Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Sekumpul Waterfalls, Kelingking Nusa Penida, Gili Trawangan, Melasti Beach, and Monkey Forest among many others. But hear me out: there’s more to the “Island of the Gods” than these renowned natural wonders and nightlife spots.

So come and uncover incredible natural beauty and explore a different side of the island with these top hidden gems in Bali!

Where to Stay in Bali?

Come and check out my list of the ‘Best Hotels in Bali’ which features the top recommended choices for cheap to luxurious accommodation choices.

Top photo by: Shutterstock

» Peguyangan Waterfall

ADDRESS: Nusa Penida, Batukandik, Nusapenida, Kabupaten Klungkung

Nusa Penida which is just southeast of Bali is a favorite destination among many travelers due to its many famous sights that are not limited to Kelingking and Diamond Beach. But before leaving this wondrous destination, don’t forget to go to the southern coast to witness the Peguyangan Waterfall that sits at the bottom of breathtaking cliffs since it is truly one of the hidden gems in Bali that you shouldn’t miss.

This will be a bit of a 20-minute hike but you will love the iconic blue stairway that will lead you down the path. If you ask me, keep a lookout as you meander down since there are several viewpoints along the way that make for great photo opportunities.

Once you get to the waterfall, it won’t be as massive since it’s basically a waterspout — however, it beautifully flows down into 3 tiered natural rock pools that opens up to the ocean view. It’s quite unique so don’t forget to put this up on your Bali itinerary.

(TIP: Bring along a sarong since some attendants will require you to wear it while going down).

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» Angel’s Billabong

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ADDRESS: Sakti, Nusapenida, Klungkung Regency

Another one of the hidden gems in Bali that you can also find in Nusa Penida is Angel’s Billabong — an astonishing natural infinity pool that is surrounded by rocky cliffs!

You will love the crystal clear waters as you glance over the coast and bask under the sunlight. If you’re up for some extra water fun, you could even try and spot some manta rays in the nearby waters.

Nevertheless, to properly enjoy Angel’s Billabong, try to time your visit right in order to come during low tide (usually around the early hours of the morning). After all, the tidal pool here will look different than the photos above.

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» Pasih Uug (Broken Beach)

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ADDRESS: Bunga Mekar, Nusapenida, Klungkung Regency

While still in Nusa Penida, you should NEVER miss out on this archway-shaped rock formation found at the entrance of a circular-shaped cliff that towers up to 200 meters high.

This natural design creates a natural pool down below wherein ocean water flows through the hole that is about 98m in diameter. The icing to the cake? It’s just adjacent to Angel’s Billabong, so it’s an easy addition to your Bali itinerary!

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» Atuh Beach

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ADDRESS: Pejukutan, Nusapenida, Klungkung Regency

Take another off-the-beaten-path spot in Nusa Penida by visiting this quaint beach that’s also called as Pantai Atuh. No matter if it’s high tide or low tide, you will love the distinct rock formations that surround this remote and isolated cove.

Found on the east side of the island near the iconic Rumah Pohon treehouse and Diamond Beach, this is one of the hidden gems in Bali that will reward you with a lesser crowd, a white sand beach, and turquoise clear waters. If you could as well, try to visit this spot during sunrise and sunset.

TIP: Set your maps to the Diamond Beach parking lot so you can access both beaches from the same parking lot.

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» Tukad Cepung Waterfall

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ADDRESS: Jl. Tembuku, Dusun Penida Kelod, Tembuku, Kabupaten Bangli

This is arguably one of the newest tourist destinations in the area of Bangli, and though a number of people are catching word of this spot, it still earns a spot in this list of hidden gems in Bali. For one thing, Tukad Cepung Waterfall is one of the most photogenic waterfalls on the island.

After hiking for about 30 minutes, climbing down a flight of stairs and meandering through a narrow cave, you will surely love the grand display of the waterfall that is surrounded by high rocky cliffs.

Try to capture this canyon as it is illuminated by rays of sunlight, and then spend the rest of your time taking a dip in the cool water.

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» Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls

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ADDRESS: Wanagiri, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency

There are a number of waterfalls north of Bali such as Sekumpul or Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, but there is a certain beautiful spot that is not known by many travelers thereby making it one of the hidden gems of Bali: the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls.

This area is home to three waterfalls (such as the well-known Bhuana Sari) — four if you come on rainy season — and they are all worthy to see! For just a small entry fee of 20,000 IDR, you can walk through the scenic paths and watch the many levels of the cascading waterfalls that all flow into shallow natural pools.

Take your time and strike a pose on top of the rocks or any of the nearby scenic bridges or walkways.

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» Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon (Secret Canyon of Sukawati)

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ADDRESS: Jalan Sahadewa, Banjar Wangbung, Guwang, Sukawati, Guwang, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar

Located in the small town of Sukawati’s Oos River, this unexplored location is a must for travelers who want to check off some hidden gems in Bali!

This place though in particular can be a bit of a challenge to get to, but it will definitely be worth it. For starters, it’s advisable to take a guide since you will have to go through rivers, swim a bit, and climb slippery rocks for up to 3km.

Once you get to this hidden canyon gorge, you will be gazing upon uniquely shaped rocks — maybe even see shapes of animals hidden in the terrain! Don’t forget to photos by the moss-covered rocks, or soak in the refreshing waters of the canyon.

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» Bunut Bolong Tree

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ADDRESS: Desa Manggisari, Manggissari, Kec. Pekutatan, Kabupaten Jembrana

Head to Manggissari village and uncover this mysterious Bunut Bolong Tree. Its name means “tree with a hollow” in Balinese — after all, the banyan tree’s roots grew to form a tunnel large enough for visitors to walk or drive through.

There are many legends surrounding this sacred tree, and there is one interesting belief that caught my attention such as how newlyweds aren’t allowed to pass or else they’ll get separated. The Balinese also believe that the tree inhabits a spirit that grants wishes! It’s up to you to believe or not, but either way, this is a beautiful location to include in your Bali itinerary.

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» Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

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ADDRESS: Village, Jl. Jatiluwih Kawan No.Desa, Jatiluwih, Penebel, Kabupaten Tabanan

There sure are a number of known rice terraces attractions spread around Bali, but if you want to soak in the verdant sight of a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces is a great choice!

In this place, you will find over 600 hectares of terraced rice paddies that follow the Batukaru mountain range. You can even learn about the traditional rice irrigation system of the Balinese in the area that was employed all the way back in the 9th century!

TRIVIA: The word Jatiluwih derives from “jati” meaning real, and “luwih” meaning beautiful.

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» Secret Gardens of Sambangan

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ADDRESS: Sambangan, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency

Travel to northern Bali and explore the large and lush rainforests of Sambangan. This is one of the hidden gems in Bali where you can discover an unspoiled paradise that features turquoise pools and even cascading waterfalls.

The first waterfall in these Secret Gardens is the largest with a height of 75 meters, followed by three other smaller ones. Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and have a refreshing dip in these crystal clear waters and enjoy the natural waterslides. You can even try out cliff jumping from different levels at each pool!

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» Amed Beach

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ADDRESS: Amed Beach, Purwa Kerthi, Karangasem

Amed Beach, nicknamed as “Black Beauty”, has unique picturesque black sand that is a result of volcanic deposits in the soil. It’s definitely one of the hidden gems in Bali where you can find some tranquil time as you lounge by the beachside, or experience the famous diving and snorkeling spots in Amed Village.

You could even come either during sunrise or sunset to get a lovely photo of the beach with Mount Agung in the distance.

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» Green Cliffs and Little Grotto

ADDRESS: Desa Undisan Kelod, Kecamatan Tembuku, Bangli Regency

Immerse yourself in wonderful nature when you visit the Green Cliffs of Undisan Bangli. As you make your way to this undiscovered place, you’ll be going across rice fields, ravines, and thick forests.

And like what you see in the photos above, this is one of the hidden gems in Bali that has unique and incredible moss-covered cliffs! Make sure you packed a swimsuit in order to take a swim in the cool waters — and if you follow the stream of water, you will find a secret grotto inside.

If you’re adventurous, you can even swim into the cave!

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» Suluban Beach Cave

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ADDRESS: Suluban Beach, Uluwatu

Behind the soaring limestone formations in Uluwatu is this enchanting Suluban Beach Cave that’s also famous for surfing. To get to this quaint spot, you need to climb down a long flight of stairs from Single Fin bar.

Once there, you can catch a romantic view of the sunset, strike a pose near the rocky formations, or just lounge on the beautiful sand. There is also an awesome shipwreck on the southern end of the beach where graffiti artists have done some art work.

“Suluban” in Balinese means ‘to pass under something’ — and that’s just what you have to do to get to this part of the beach: crawling through nooks and crannies!

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» Nyang Nyang Beach

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ADDRESS: Pecatu, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung

Everyone knows that the island is full of pristine, white-sand beaches — but Nyang Nyang Surfing Beach is one of those hidden gems in Bali that is different.

Apart from the fact that it is unfrequented by tourists, it also offers one of the most beautiful coastlines in the country! After a steep 600-step walk, you can enjoy the beach either during low tide (perfect for tide-pooling and swimming) or high tide (perfect for surfers looking for right-hand breaks).

It also features an abandoned vessel covered in colorful graffiti art. Roam further and you’ll find a wild garden filled with vivid blooms.

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» Leke Leke Waterfall, Bali

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ADDRESS: Antapan, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency

If you want to chase some more waterfalls, the Leke Leke waterfall that’s found in the north is a great stop point! Besides, not a lot of people know this so you’ll likely find yourself alone when you do make a visit.

So after walking through some bamboo bridges for about 15 minutes, you’ll be rewarded with this towering waterfall that’s surrounded by rocky cliffs.

It has a 30,000IDR entrance fee to get into the grounds, but it can also be a visit that includes other activities in the location such as camping, cycling, hiking, and tubing.

Activities to Do Around Bali?

Check out these ‘top things to do in Bali‘ for fun activities and tours!

» Compare All Bali Hotels & Rentals «

• • •

15 Hidden Gems in Bali, Indonesia: Top Off the Beaten Track Sights

Overall

Even a famed vacation getaway like Bali still has several stunning hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. I hope this list satisfies your wanderlust!

• • •

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At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful digital nomad (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

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7 Comments

  1. Aman Singh

    This is something that made my day. Actually I was planning for my honeymoon and I decided to Bali, So I have been through several blogs before reading your blog. It was totally amazing and heart warming to see such wonderful pictures on different places around Bali which are less explored. Thanks for sharing Aileen.

    Reply
  2. Raj

    Love beaches! Because of you, looking at these pictures, it makes me want to go there and visit these beautiful places.

    Reply
  3. Natalie Ann Redman

    What gorgeous spots!

    Reply
  4. mylin

    First off, the photos look astoundingly surreal and out of this world! It’s like the sceneries were only captured to be viewed on a movie screen! The beautiful art of nature plus great photography equals these masterpieces! Thank you for sharing this beautiful place with us even though it’s only through virtual but you made us inspired and motivated to work our asses off to even just visit this place!

    Reply
    • Aileen Adalid

      I’m happy to hear this! I hope you could visit soon :)

      Reply
  5. zásob

    So many amazing spots!

    Reply
    • Aileen Adalid

      Hope you could come and visit soon!

      Reply

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