Hidden Gems in Bali: 16+ REAL Best-Kept Secrets

Bali is, without a doubt, one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, known for its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and cultural attractions.

But beyond the well-known Bali tourist hotspots, there are many hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

In this article, we've rounded up the top hidden gems in Bali that you must visit.

1. Munduk, North Bali

Munduk is a charming little village located in the northern part of rural Bali, and it is well-known for its stunning natural beauty.

The area is characterized by lush forests and green hills, incredible waterfalls, and coffee plantations, making it a unique place in Bali for nature lovers.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Munduk is by staying at one of the many infinity pool hotels that are located in the area.

These Bali hidden gem hotels offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and they provide the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind.

Some of the most popular infinity pool hotels in Munduk include:

• Munduk Moding Plantation
• Sanak Retreat Bali
• Munduk Heaven Luxury Villas

These hotels offer luxurious accommodations, excellent amenities, and unparalleled views of stunning surroundings.

2. Menjangan Island, North Bali

Menjangan Island is a small island located off the coast of Bali's northwest coast.

It is part of the West Bali National Park, and home to a rich marine life with some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in Bali.

The island is also known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.

While you can't stay on the island, it makes for a fantastic day trip. You can easily reach the island by boat in about 30 minutes from Labuhan Lalang in Northern Bali.

3. Melasti Beach, Uluwatu

Melasti Beach is still a bit of a hidden gem beach located in Uluwatu, but increasingly becoming very popular!

It is a secluded beach that is surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery. The beach is the perfect place to escape the crowds and relax in the sun.

Melasti Beach is also perfect a perfect spot to go swimming and is probably one of the cleanest beaches in Bali.

If you love a good beach club, don't miss visiting Palmilla Beach Club, offering a luxury beach club experience with a swimming pool, bars and cabanas.

4. Rumah Pohon Treehouse, Nusa Penida

Enjoy a truly unique and adventurous escape to Rumah Pohon Treehouse, situated on beautiful Nusa Penida Island, a quick 40-minute ferry from Bali.

Nusa Penida Island, which is part of the Nusa Islands, is a hidden gem off Bali's southeast coast.

It is a lesser-known alternative to Bali's famous islands, such as Nusa Lembongan and Gili Islands.

Marvel at the breathtaking views of the ocean from this secluded mountain perch – but don't forget your camera!

Let your wild inner spirit loose on this stunning island as you wander along untouched beaches and then sleep in the treehouse for an unforgettable experience.

5. Bukit Asah, East Bali

Bukit Asah is a hidden gem located on Bali's east coast. It's only an hour's drive from the town of Amed, an underwater playground that attracts a growing crowd of divers.

It is a lesser-known alternative to Bali's famous sunrise spot, Mount Batur.

Bukit Asah offers stunning views of the sunrise over the ocean, and it is a popular spot for photographers.

6. Nyang Nyang Beach, Uluwatu

Nyang Nyang Beach is a hidden gem beach located in Uluwatu, Bali. It is a secluded beach that requires a bit of effort to reach, but it is well worth it.

This Uluwatu beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush greenery, and it offers stunning views of the ocean.

Nyang Nyang Beach is a great place for those who are looking for a peaceful and quiet escape. Relax on the soft white sand, take a dip in the crystal clear water, and soak up the sun and your day at Nyang Nyang is complete!

The beach is also a popular spot for surfers, as it offers some of the best waves in the area. For those who are feeling adventurous, there is a shipwreck to explore just off the shore.

7. Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Tukad Cepung Waterfall is one of the most unique waterfalls in Bali. This waterfall cascades into a deep hidden canyon that comes to life with golden rays of sunshine lighting up the mossy rocks when the sun stands right.

This stunning waterfall can be reached within an hour's drive from Sidemen. Once there, the waterfall can only be accessed by trekking through a narrow canyon.

Once you reach the waterfall at the bottom, you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of the waterfall cascading down from above.

Tukad Cepung is a great addition to your Bali itinerary if you're looking to explore the island's hidden gems and get off the beaten track.

8. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are located in the Tabanan Regency, and they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

They are some of the most beautiful rice terraces in Bali, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

While it takes about 1.5 hours from Ubud to these picturesque rice fields, they are well worth a visit and more spectacular than the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud.

9. Sidemen

Sidemen is a small village located in the eastern part of rural Bali.

Offering a peaceful and authentic Balinese experience, the village is surrounded by beautiful rice paddies, lush green hills, and houses built with traditional Balinese architecture.

One of the best things to do in Sidemen is to take a walk or bike ride through the rice fields and enjoy the stunning views.

Or take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Balinese dishes, or visit a local weaving workshop to see how intricate textiles are made.

Another popular activity from Sidemen is hiking up majestic Mount Agung at sunrise, Bali's highest volcano, for a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Overall, Sidemen is worth visiting for those who are looking for a quieter and more authentic side of Bali, away from the crowds and commercialism of the popular tourist areas.

10. Green Bowl Beach, Uluwatu

Green Bowl Beach, also known as Pantai Tegal Wangi, is a secluded beach located in the southern part of Bali, near Ungasan village.

This hidden gem is a bit of a trek to reach, involving a steep descent down a set of stairs. However, once you get there, you'll be rewarded with a pristine white sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise water.

The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs, which provide a sense of seclusion and privacy. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing, and you'll likely have the beach mostly to yourself.

11. Wanagiri Hidden Hill

Wanagiri Hidden Hill is one of Bali's perfect hidden gems close to the iconic Handara Gate in the mountainous region of North Bali.

Offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, the beautiful hidden place of Wanagiri Hidden Hill is a collection of hilltop viewpoints that overlook the lush greenery, lakes, and forests below.

The hills are home to several scenic swing and photo spots, where you can take some stunning shots with the beautiful landscape as the backdrop.

A must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty and serenity of Bali's hidden gems, Wanagiri Hidden Hill is the perfect place to escape the crowds and take in the stunning views of the island's natural wonders.

12. Pasut Beach

Pasut Beach is one of Bali's hidden beaches, a serene and secluded black sand beach located 45 minutes north of Canggu.

This hidden gem is lesser-known and visited by tourists, making it a great escape from the crowds and a peaceful spot to enjoy the beauty of Bali's coastline.

The beach stretches for kilometers, with towering palm trees and lush greenery on one side and the Indian Ocean's vast expanse on the other.

The black sand adds to the unique and dramatic scenery, and the beach is a popular spot for taking long walks or jogging while watching the local fishermen cast their nets.

There is no entrance fee for Pasut Beach, making it a great option for those who want to enjoy a beautiful beach without having to pay for it.

13. Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall

This waterfall is one of Bali's secret waterfalls and an amazing hidden gem that is slowly gaining popularity among adventurous travelers.

Located near Twin Lakes in Northern Bali, this real hidden gem is not as well-known as some of the island's other waterfalls, but it's definitely worth a visit.

Featuring several cascading waterfalls, you are in for a stunning sight and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a refreshing swim.

To reach the Banu Wana Amertha waterfall, visitors need to trek through lush forests and cross streams, which adds to the sense of adventure and discovery.

Banyu Wana Amertha waterfall is a must-visit attraction for those who want to explore the real hidden gems of Bali and experience the island's natural beauty.

14. Pemuteran

Pemuteran Bay is a true Bali hidden gem that is slowly gaining popularity among travelers who seek an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Located in the northwest part of the island, Pemuteran boasts stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, making this hidden treasure a perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and the hustle and bustle of the more popular areas in Bali.

The village is surrounded by mountains and lush jungle forests, creating a unique and peaceful environment that invites visitors to relax and unwind.

Pemuteran is also known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a great destination for snorkeling and diving.

15. Sangeh Monkey Forest

If you have visited Bali before or looking for an alternative to the rather overcrowded Monkey Forest in the heart of Ubud, Sangeh Monkey Forest is one of Bali's best hidden gems.

Just a short drive from the popular tourist destination of Ubud, you will find the tropical jungle village of Sangeh.

This hidden gem is home to hundreds of Balinese long-tailed monkeys, who are free to roam and interact with visitors. The forest itself is a stunning sight, with towering nutmeg trees and a dense canopy that creates a unique and tranquil atmosphere.

Explore the forest's winding pathways and observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, swinging from tree to tree and playing with each other.

16. Tegal Wangi Beach Cave

Tegal Wangi Beach Cave is one of Bali's top hidden gems located in the Jimbaran area.

Here you will find two caves that have been carved out of the surrounding cliffs by the power of the ocean over time. Explore the rocky walls of the cave and marvel at the stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding cliffs, soaking in the beauty of Bali's hidden places.

Tegal Wangi Beach Cave is a must-visit for anyone who wants to explore the island's natural wonders and discover its top Bali hidden gems without the crowds.

Hidden Gems in Bali – Final Words

Bali is a true hidden gem with an abundance of sights and experiences waiting to be discovered.

From the stunning UNESCO World Heritage rice terraces of Jatiluwih Rice Terraces to the tranquil black sand beaches of Pasut Beach near Canggu, Bali offers a diverse range of amazing hidden gems for all types of travelers.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or culture, this beautiful island has many things off the beaten track to offer.

Lastly, the hidden gems of Bali are not only found in its natural wonders but also in its people, traditions, amazing food and incredible hospitality.

So if you're planning your next trip, make sure to add Bali to your list and explore the many hidden treasures this island paradise has to offer.