Of all of the destinations in Southeast Asia, traveling to Bali with kids is one of the easiest options. Along with Thailand, this Indonesian island has some of the best tourist infrastructures in the region. Getting around and accessing the essentials is completely manageable for families of all ages.
The island of Bali is conveniently small yet amazingly diverse. There are endless water sports and outdoor activities alongside lush beaches where you can laze the day away. On this tropical island, you can set your own pace.
Not only is Bali family-friendly, but it is also one of the most beautiful places on earth. If you are looking for a peaceful escape to a far-flung tropical destination, look no further! Here is everything that you need about traveling Bali with kids.
When to Go to Bali
The weather is consistently warm throughout the year in Bali. Generally, you’ll find that the temperature drops down to around the mid-70s F (mid-20s C) on the chilliest nights. On the warmest afternoons, you will see the mercury rise to about 95 degrees F (35 degrees C). It is the same pretty much 365 days per year.
While temperature isn’t much of a consideration, you do want to plan around the rain. Bali essentially has two seasons during the year. There is a dry season, which lasts from April until September. Generally speaking, this is the best time to visit. The wet season goes from October to March of each year. During the rainy time of year, you’ll experience a massive downpour on most days. It’s typically something that comes and goes relatively quickly, but you’d want to be flexible in your plans if you were to visit during the wet months. Things can get rained out at a moment’s notice, and there are way more bugs, so hiking certain areas can be a bit annoying at times.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Bali
From budget hostels to all-inclusive resorts, you will find accommodation of every single type in Bali. If you are looking for kid-friendly hotels that have all of the amenities you’d expect in a Western hotel, opt for a Western hotel chain. There are fabulous, locally operated options, but you will want to research them well to make sure that they have all of the kid-friendly stuff you need for travel.
Accor properties, like Novotel, are consistently exceptional. Options like the Novotel Bali Nusa Dua – Hotel & Residences offers spacious apartments with a kitchen, living rooms, and dining rooms. They also offer services like on-site babysitting.
The Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali is stunning and has everything you need while traveling Bali with kids. They are endless kid-friendly things to do, including many guided activities so you can sneak away to the spa and trust that the little ones are taken care of.
If you’re looking for a swanky family-friendly option, check out the Hard Rock Hotel Bali in Kuta. Between the Roxity Kids Club and the Lullaby Playroom, it will be an unforgettable stay for your kids.
My personal favorite luxury hotel however is the The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Nusa Dua. It has its own private beach, five restaurants on site, and excellent facilities. It’s part of the Marriott chain, so you can use your Marriott Bonvoy points.
Travelling Bali with Kids: What to Expect
The thing that I love the most about Bali is that you have the best of both worlds. You can lounge on a lush sun-soaked beach, go out surfing, do a bit of snorkeling OR you can climb mountains, hike the rice terraces, and dive into waterfalls. You could unwind an all-inclusive or explore a local village to soak in the native culture.
Travel Bali with kids is a blast because you can completely carter the experience to your family and what you are in the mood to do on any given day. Once airfare is out of the way, it’s an ultra-affordable destination, so can do a lot for less here.
Things to Do in Bali With Kids
Surfing: If you’re traveling Bali with kids who are comfortable in the water, you’ve got to get to Kuta or Canggu. The surfing there is a world-class, and you will find lessons for all levels. [Surfing Deals]
Bali Treetop Adventure Park: Kids got some energy to let out? Bring them to the Bali Treetop Adventure Park, to take on the seven adventure courses and face 72 types of physical challenges! It’s a great family activity, and you might find challenges that you want to try yourself. If you’re not in the mood for an adrenaline charge, you can also explore the other section of the property where you’ll find the Bali Botanical Garden Bedugul.
Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud: What kid doesn’t want to see monkeys? The Sacred Monkey Forest is an unforgettable afternoon out.
Bali Safari Marine Park: Another great place to see animals, the Bali Safari Marine Park is a must for anyone on a family trip. Hop on the minibus for a safari trip to see animals from all over Africa and Asia.
Uluwatu Temple: Come to the Uluwatu Temple to see the Kecak Dance, a traditional Balinese fire dance that is going to mesmerizing for kids and adults alike!
Ubud Market: When you are ready to find start your search for the perfect souvenirs, get over to Ubud Market for a shopping adventure.
Still deciding where to go? Check out the top four exotic destinations around the planet for families, or try our Trip Ideas & Inspiration tool.
