13 Best Family Destinations in Bali: An Insider’s Guide!

🗺️ Planning a family vacation to Bali and need a guide to the best kid-friendly destinations on the island. Then this is the insider’s guide for you – read-on for all the best family destinations & my thoughts on where to stay in Bali.

Bali is teeming with family friendly destinations, and there are many blogs out there on the matter. I’m adding mine here too… but this one comes WELL explored and 100 percent up-to-date. It’s taken me a year to do the research on this, and now it’s finally ready to share.

Me and @MyFreeRangeFamily LIVE in Bali. We have spent many many months exploring all the best family destinations in Bali. From Uluwatu, to Sanur, Canggu to Amed and beyond, below I’ll explain each destination on possible locations and where to stay. Also what these areas offer in terms of family fun vibes and suitability and how to get around.

In my opinion, I don’t think there are any destinations in Bali that wouldn’t classify as family-friendly. I think ultimately it depends on what kind of family travel you seek. Some destinations are suited to the adventurous family, some more suited to a resort style holiday. Others want to be in the thick of it, while some want to be off the beaten track. And so my post here aims give you all the information you need to make the big decision – “where shall we book our family getaway to Bali.”

If you get to the end of this post, and you still can’t decide, then get in touch! I’m happy to help 🫶

Bali’s Family Friendly Destinations

Listen up my friends… below I share everything I have learned since my family and I moved here to this beautiful island. But before I get started I want to share my gratitude to the beautiful people of Bali, and to the island itself.

Bali is a large island, it takes hours to go from south to north, and even longer to go from east to west. That said, it’s also a very small place, with a special culture and gentle people.

As visitors to this land I urge we all come respectfully and responsibly. Bali relies on tourism, as a result it’s also heavily impacted by tourism. So I kindly remind everyone reading this post to come and visit, but be mindful of how you tread, and the trace you leave.

I recommend choosing accommodation that is environmentally conscious, I suggest you support small local business wherever you can. And above all else, show the local Balinese people the same kindness that I know they will show you. ❤️🤍

Right… let’s get into it. Below is my list of the best 13 family destinations to visit in Bali, in no particular order!

Uluwatu

🧭 The southern most peninsula of Bali
✈️ 23km from the airport (1h 10m +++ depending on traffic)
🌊 Best for confident surfers and beach

🏖️ Simply put this is the place to go if you want beautiful beaches. We love the white sand vibe of little bays against steep cliffs and my feeling is… that so will you!

Perhaps important to note is that Uluwatu is a surf central, so when the swell is big, swimming becomes more challenging. However the reef break does a great job of protecting the beach, creating sheltered areas for swimming.

Check out beaches such as Padang Padang for the littlies. This is a VERY small beach but arrive early in the morning and your toddlers will love paddling around at the water’s edge. What’s more the walk in is fairly easy, and the kids will enjoy the walk through the cave as you descend down towards the beach. Thomas beach is another favourite. A long stretch of beach, this one tends to be slightly quieter. Head to Nyang Nyang on the southern side of Uluwatu for an adventure, and at low tide the kids might even enjoy some snorkelling. Also on the outgoing tide you could check out Suluban.

You also have the nearby Uluwatu Temple, bring a sarong, coverup and watch out for the extremely cheeky monkeys. The kecak dancing is also well worth a visit, the kids will love watching this traditional fire dance. And in the centre of the Bukit is the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park. The very large statue can be seen from almost anywhere in the southern regions of Bali.

Getting Around Uluwatu with Kids

If you’re comfortable with the idea, Uluwatu is a great place to rent a scooter and get around. The main road winds more than 30+km around the Uluwatu peninsula and so having your own transport does make things easier. So I recommend, scooters as the most practical method of transport. Be brave, put on your helmets and go explore!

Of course scooter life isn’t for everyone. So if you tend to lean on the side of “heck no not for me,” then we suggest finding accommodation in a central area. Pick a beach of your choice, stay as near as possible and get around on foot or by taxi. Choosing the pedestrian option is slightly more challenging but still possible nonetheless.

Sanur

🧭 The eastern side of Bali
✈️ 14km from the airport (40+ minutes)
🚲 Best for easily getting around with a gentle beach

Sanur is the place for beaches if you have young children. It’s also one of the more popular destinations if the grandparents are joining the Bali family holiday. You can also easily schedule in a couple of day trips from Sanur. Note that it is something of a retiree destination, among expats wanting a slower pace.

But the beach is perfect for toddlers, due to the outer reef which protects the beach. Our preferred end of Sanur is the southern end, where the beach is a little prettier. There are also some excellent family restaurants scattered all along the promenade. One of our favourite past times in Sanur is sitting, eating and relaxing and this really is the best place to do that.

Sanur has a couple of turtle sanctuaries on the promenade, the Hyatt supports one of these. Entry is free and the kids can walk around the small tanks admiring rescue turtles. I’m not sure what the release program is for these turtles and I do always feel quite sad as I walk around. This is something I intend to do more research on in time.

Nearby you have the new Icon Mall, with access from the main road and the beach. This is a good pit stop if it’s raining, we also recommend the movie theatre! But if the sun is shining get out and explore the shops and the beach. You might even consider booking a snorkel tour or overnight stay to a nearby island. Sanur is one of the main ferry hubs to islands such as the Gillies, Nusa Penida and our family favourite Lembongan Island.

getting around Sanur with Kids

What we LOVE about Sanur is the very laid back atmosphere, the promenade style beach path leads the full length of the beach. It’s the perfect destination to take long walks and even to rent a bicycle. The path has in fact two tracks, one for pedestrians and one for bikes. While on the main shopping road the footpaths are also pedestrian friendly.

Kuta / Seminyak / Legian

🧭 South Bali
✈️ 4km / 7km / 12km from the airport (15m / 30m / 50m – depending on traffic)
🏖️ Best for families with older kids, surf lessons & shopping

These three areas of Kuta, Seminyak and Legian are where much of the action is. This is tourist central and one of the most popular family destinations for many Australian and New Zealanders seeking a surf-beach getaway to Bali. Naturally this has its perks and pitfalls.

The beaches between Kuta, Legian and Seminyak are all very similar. A beach path spans the three with small beach restaurants and warungs dotted all the way along. These warungs offer beach umbrellas and beanbags, sometimes in the evening live music. One of personal favourites is Capil, it’s nothing fancy, just reliable food and friendly service. If you go say hi to Superman the manager, tell him the Capil Kids sent you and he’ll look after you.

As well as the beach warungs, there are plenty of places to rent an umbrella, sun loungers, boogie boards and surfboards for a splash. The waves do get big, but older kids love it, especially at low tide. There are also many surf schools offering different packages for all level of surfers. Below I’ll explain impressions of each.

Kuta –

Bali’s original tourist destination, which means these days it’s a bit more dated and as a result quieter. Travellers have moved beyond Kuta to greener rice paddies (or not). The area is more built up, and the upside to this is the proximity to the likes of the Beachwalk Shopping Centre, the Hard Rock Cafe, the Waterbom Theme Park and the airport!

Legian –

Next up is Legian beach. Here you’ll have access to some great shopping streets such as Jalan Arjuna and the Trans Studio Theme Park. Get your morning coffee at one of my favourite beach cafes and restaurant – Kanoa. Mums and Dads if you run out of reading material pop in to see Ady (on google maps) at his second hand bookstore under the stairs!

Seminyak –

Moving on, Seminyak is great for beach clubs such as Ku De Ta, Mano and Potato Head. Seminyak Square is a small shopping centre where the kids will want to shop till they drop at Candilicious. Nearby is the infamous Revolver Cafe a top spot for breakfast, Bodyworks Spa for some parent only time. And don’t miss La Lucciola at sunset for a delicious Italian dinner and perfect views.

getting around Kuta/legian/seminyak with Kids

Taxis are a plenty as are Gojek or Grab scooter taxis. Yes in Bali kids jump on Gojek scooters too! I strongly urge you book through the app and don’t wave down a driver on the street as they tend to inflate the prices. Just note that traffic can be a nightmare, especially at sunset timings so allow for delays!

Amed

🧭 North east Bali
✈️ 100km from the airport (3 hours)
🤿 Best for snorkelling, learning to dive and getting off the beaten track

Amed was one of the first destinations on my must visit in Bali with the family list. And for good reason. Amed is a lovely mixed bag of busy and chill. It definitely feels off the beaten track, without feeling dull.

There are many lovely places to stay in Amed right on the beach. We stayed at Life in Amed and loved the beach front bungalows. The beach is full of life first thing in the morning as the fisherman head out to sea. So if you’re a light sleeper you might want to find something further back from the beach. For a mountain stay we also highly recommend the Mathis Lodge, their complementary buggy from the main road is half the adventure.

For a casual beach day head to Vienna Beach Resort, you can grab an umbrella on the beach or sit in the restaurant. The stretch of beach here is the best for kids, it’s more sandy than pebbles and swimming off the beach is easy. This bay is also good for swimming with turtles. I do feel the need to mention to please respect the turtle’s space. Don’t try to hold them and do let them come up for air. I’ve seen so many swimmers behave poorly around the turtles.

Snorkelling & Diving in Amed

The snorkelling and diving is some of the best in Bali and so you’ll notice town is full of divers and dive centres. If you have older children they might even like to do a Bubble Explorer Dive course. We recommend John and the team at EcoDive, for all your diving needs!

There are also two wreck dives from the beach the Japanese Ship Wreck and the Liberty Wreck. Both are well worth the snorkel, however the Liberty Wreck is further out of Amed and deeper, so the Japanese Ship Wreck is more suited to beginners.

getting around Amed with Kids

Amed’s reach is long, so if you are wanting to get out and see some of the different beaches then it’s best to rent a scooter. It’s also very easy to scooter and at the same time very picturesque. However if you don’t want the stress you can find taxis around town.

Lovina

🧭 North Bali
✈️ 97km from the airport (3h 30m)
🐬 Best for dolphin swimming & getting off the beaten track

Lovina is a chilled location in the north of Bali – one of the lesser known family destinations. There isn’t a heap going on and it could be considered a bit dated, but we enjoyed it for a getaway. It could be suited to families wanting to road trip around the island and added as a stop off on a Bali itinerary.

The dolphin watching tours are one of the more popular activities, but ethically I found this activity questionable. Instead I DO highly recommend night time swimming with bioluminescence, aka plankton tours in Bali. Chat with some of locals and it won’t take long till you have yourself a boatman. Then at dark he’ll take you out into the bay 100metres or so off shore and you’ll jump right in. Don’t forget a snorkel and mask. As soon as you put your head under the water the bioluminescence lights up and your every movement glows underwater. It’s breathtaking and the kids will absolutely love it!

Beyond this, Lovina is quiet and laid back. There are a few good restaurants and beach bars, such as the Funky Place, to sip sundowners from. The beach is a mix of sand and pebble with no swell, so perfect for the kids to dip in and out while you relax with a Bintang.

getting around Lovina with Kids

The main road is quite busy, so if you’re on scooter take it easy when crossing the traffic. But to be honest, Lovina feels like the kind of place that you pick a beach hotel and stay put at. Getting from A to B can easily be done on foot via the beach. There are also plenty of taxis around should you need to get to the supermarket or beyond.

Jatiluwih

🧭 Central Bali
✈️ 60km from the airport (2h 30m)
🌾 Best for rice terraces and walking trails

Jatiluwih is all about the rice terraces! It’s actually a UNESCO world heritage site, in part due to the subak – spring fed irrigation channels – that run throughout the rice paddies.

Now if I’m to be honest, there isn’t a whole lot to do in Jatiluwih when you’re there. And at the risk of sounding spoilt, once you’ve seen one rice paddy, you’ve kind of seen them all. That said, Jatiluwih does make a great day trip from Canggu or Seminyak.

So here’s my recommendation, if you want to explore this beautiful area, take a day trip there. Tie it in with a visit to a waterfall, have a nice lunch and go tubing on the subak (loads of family fun and cheap to boot). Unless of course you want countryside and a remote style getaway!

🤫 Secret tip: Book a couple nights at Batu Karu Coffee Estate for an exceptional, yet budget friendly stay!

Getting Around Jatiluwih with Kids

Due to its remote location, transport may take longer to book through the Gojek app, but it certainly won’t be impossible. The Jatiluwih rice terraces are very walkable, a myriad of small trails weave from top to bottom. Select your route and off you go exploring!

Kintamani

🧭 North Bali
✈️ 77km (avoiding Ubud traffic) from the airport (2h 30m)
⛰️ Best for volcano views

And this top spot is all about the mountains, the crisp air and volcano views. Kintamani was in fact, my first getaway in Bali, it was my first scooter ride and my first encounter of a more alternative version of Bali. Of course, it’s actually more rural and authentic, people who live here everyday going about their day to day life.

Stop in the lovely cafes perched on the caldera ridge of Mount Batur overlooking the crater lake and Mt Agung. There’s even a Starbucks if you’re hanging for an Iced Caramel Macchiato!

Popular things to do in Kintamani include a sunrise walk up Mount Batur which provides stellar views over a volcanic landscape. However note that many tourists take a jeep tour and it so it can be exceptionally busy! You’ll find many thermal hot springs in the area, great for a morning or evening warm up.

You might like to visit a coffee plantation and sample the luwak coffee (coffee beans are consumed by the luwak and then pooped out ☕️💩). There are also a number of nearby waterfalls, temples and the Tegallalang rice terraces worth a visit.

Getting Around Kintamani with Kids

We love exploring this area by scooter, but it’s also very steep, so if you’re new to scooter life then best to stick to a car. As with most remote areas transport is best arranged in advance, but certainly you can also use the Gojek app. In the South of Kintamani (north of Ubud) there are also cycle tours which are great for the family. Naturally it’s mostly down hill, so simply jump on your bike and follow the leader!

Munduk

🧭 North Bali in the mountains
✈️ 80km from the airport (3 hours)
💦 Best for remotes stays, cooler temps & waterfall walks

For getting off the beaten path in Bali, Munduk would have to be one of my favourite destinations. This is not a common stop on most travellers map, and shhh I suggest we keep it that way. If you love nature, waterfalls, quiet and eco getaways then Munduk should be on your list.

Munduk itself is nestled high in the mountains, often shrouded in cloud. It’s the perfect location if you need a break from the heat of the coast, as the temperature is certainly lower in the mountains. You might even need an extra layer in the evenings. We absolutely recommend the studio cabin or glamping tents at Desa Eko for the best Munduk experience!

The backdrop is misty and moody, but when the cloud peels back, the views over the north of Bali and the mountains are quite spectacular. Outdoor loving families must remember sneakers or trainers for mountainside trails to nearby waterfalls. The loop waterfall trail is one of my favourites, as you can pack in multiple waterfalls on one walk. But also the people you meet on the trail selling cinnamon, cloves and spices is all part of the Munduk magic.

The Munduk rice terraces are worth a walk too, the Tamblingan Lake at sunrise and the Bali Farm House park in Bedugul. All of these spots are worth a visit on the way to or from Munduk. But you would need to arrange a driver to get to these sights. More on that below.

getting around Munduk with Kids

Once you’re in Munduk getting around isn’t so easy, it makes sense to arrange transport with your accommodation. Alternatively if you have the contact of your own driver then schedule him in ahead of time.

It is worth mentioning that it is possible to scooter to Munduk. We often fill up our scooters with the necessities, then we hit the road with one child each and make a road trip of it. I will point out that it’s important that you’re confident on a scooter if you choose to take this option.

Medewi

🧭 West (ish) Bali
✈️ 83km from the airport (3h 15m ++)
🏄‍♂️ Best for surfers and getting off the beaten track

Medewi is known as the longest left hand wave, which attracts the surf enthusiasts. But I would argue it’s not just for the surfers. I really enjoy Medewi, it’s quiet, off the beaten track and feels like authentic Bali. The locals tend to be Muslim and so there are some beautiful mosques around and the call to prayer is lovely to experience.

There are many little beach hotels and Airbnbs to rent along the coast. The beaches are black sand and it stretches to the west as far as the eye can see. Walking the beach at low tide is very peaceful, and you’ll see locals going about their business. Just be aware that if you try to walk the beach at high tide the rivers can be difficult to cross.

Noteworthy places to eat are the Bombora and Umadewi. Both are located directly in front of the main surf spot, so this is always a good location to watch the surf action. Further to the west are smaller warungs, and surf houses such as the Holy Tree.

The short scenic 20 minute scooter up into the mountainside to Bunut Bolong is worth the trip. A giant tree that has grown over the road, so that vehicles now drive straight through the middle. It’s an impressive sight and a mini-adventure for the kids if you’re all beached out on Medewi.

getting around Medewi with Kids

The downside of Medewi, is the main road to Java that this small town is positioned on. We took our scooters from Canggu to Medewi and while the first part of the journey was pleasant and picturesque the last part was not. Large trucks in transit between Java and Bali dominate the roads with full loads. And they’re intimidating, slow and they pump out fumes. I would recommend taking a car or taxi to Medewi and renting a scooter when you’re there.

Candi Dasa / Sidemen

🧭 West Bali
✈️ 63km from the airport (1h 50m)
🤿 Best for snorkelling and getting off the beaten track

The family friendly, sleepy little town of Candi Dasa, is a somewhat alternative destination to visit. It was once very popular in the earlier days, but these days is more low key. There isn’t a whole lot going on Candi Dasa, so if you want more life, then this town might not be for you. The area is situated directly on the east coastline of Bali, with many fishing boats parked along the beach. The beach at Candi Dasa is not the prettiest of beaches, nor is it very family friendly for swimming.

That said, there are some super sweet beaches and snorkelling spots nearby, including the beautiful Blue Lagoon. So if your kids are water lovers then Candi Dasa would be a perfect option. Slightly further north is Virgin Beach another pretty spot with camping options available right on the beach.

And then just to the west of Candi Dasa is the rural area of Sidemen. Less built up, and more off the beaten path. There are many local home stays in the region, as well as rice terraces, waterfalls, and eco resorts. If this sounds like your vibe then check out the beautiful Hideout Eco Bamboo House for a low carbon footprint stay.

Getting Around Candi Dasa & Sidemen with Kids

While getting around in Candi Dasa is easier, Sidemen is a little more remote and therefore Gojek’s may take a little longer to arrive. Candi Dasa on the other hand is walkable along the main street running parallel to the beach. But not so walkable on the ocean side, particularly at high tide.

Ubud

🧭 Central Bali
✈️ 37km from the airport (2 hours)
🐒 Best for monkeys & shopping

If you’ve heard of Bali, you’ve no doubt heard of Ubud… it’s just one of those popular family destinations that everyone knows and visits. Consequently it’s become exceptionally busy in the last couple of years. So I feel like I owe you as the reader a warning. Many visitors love Ubud, and for sure it’s a great place, just not the tranquil place it once was.

The shopping in Ubud is very good, so if you want to pick up locally made knick-knacks. There are many creative artists producing impressive crafts, from jewellery, to furnishings, craft and paintings to clothes, chocolate and more!

The food scene in Ubud is very good also. In fact if you’re a food lover, then book yourself a cooking class in Ubud as there are some very good quality options available. Do a silver jewellery making course, or the popular Bali Swing – every Instagrammer’s dream photo shot over rice terraces. And there are also some lovely scenic walks and waterfalls in and around Ubud.

In the heart of Ubud is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. In my opinion this is one of the better places to visit Bali’s monkeys. In the north of Ubud you’ll find several places offering a nighttime fireflies tour. If you want to experience this, I recommend booking a night and staying in this area. The kids love the experience and it’s nice to support the small local businesses in the area.

Getting Around Ubud with Kids

I find traffic in and around Ubud very overwhelming, so be prepared for a slow approach in and out. As a result I wouldn’t recommend going by scooter to Ubud. Though Gojek is very available, either car or scooter.

Canggu / Pererenan

🧭 West (ish) Bali
✈️ 23km from the airport (1h 30m ++ depending on traffic)
🌅 Best for sunsets, people watching, surf lessons & shopping

Ahhhh the Instagram central of Bali. Young 20 something digital nomads have flocked in the thousands to Canggu and Pererenan. There are also a large population of expats who have made this part of the island their home. And we would be one of those… (not the 20 somethings, the expats).

Gorgeous lycra clad female bodies walk the streets, equally as many muscled and shirtless young males do. And a bunch more tear around on scooters, with headphones and occasionally also an air of entitlement. It’s a vibe. I don’t mean to sound cynical, I’m just calling a spade a spade.

I hear you now saying… ooh not for me. But actually I do really like Canggu, especially its incredible food scene, boutique shops, beach clubs, sunsets and people watching! There is definitely more to share here on my favourite things to do in Canggu (post coming soon).

For a quick overview with the kids you have the option of jewellery making classes, perfume making, art classes, yoga classes and so much more. Check out the gorgeous La Brisa beach club, for a sunset while the little ones enjoy the kids pool as you sip a cocktail. Take them to Wild Art or book them in for a surf lesson. Explore the open air markets, eat amazing food in stunning restaurants and cafes. Just do it ALL!

getting around Canggu / pererenan with Kids

Pick a good street in Canggu and you’ll very easily get around on foot, Gojek or scooter rental. Get the little ones a helmet put them on the bike with you and embrace Canggu for everything that it offers!

Nusa Dua

🧭 South east Bali
✈️ 13km from the airport (30 minutes)
🏖️ Best for beach front resort stays

Nusa Dua is perfectly suited to family holidaymakers… it’s one of the most popular resort town destinations on Bali. Five star resorts with big pools and popular buffets, such as the luxury Mulia Resort, span the length of Nusa Dua. Our first impression arriving into Nusa Dua was one of awe. It doesn’t pack the chaotic punch of Seminyak and Legian. The streets feel wider, more polished and less crowded by scooters. Even the new large bypass toll road feels luxurious.

So if it’s a rest and relaxation, resort style vacay that you’re seeking then Nusa Dua will likely tick the box. Many of the resorts have prime beach spots, lush pools, kids clubs and fun in the sun holiday vibes. For things to do in an around Nusa Dua the options are fewer. But if you’re up for an adventure you might want to take a short trip to Sunday’s Beach Club for a change up. You can also explore Uluwatu for a day trip which is still relatively close.

getting around Nusa Dua with Kids

There are no shortage of drivers, taxis and GoCars in and around Nusa Dua. If you’re looking for a resort staycay then chances are you’ll also prefer the stress free transport option. A driver can be arranged through resorts, or booked on the Gojek app if you want a more budget option.

Map of the Best Family Destinations in Bali & More

I hope this blog has helped you get a better understanding of the best family destinations in Bali. Stay tuned for more information, as I get busy sharing more content around the best things to do in each of these areas.

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📌 Don’t forget to pin this post on family destinations in Bali for later.

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We are a travel LOVING FAMILY, who chose to travel full-time for 3 years, BUT now live in Bali. Sign up to follow our journey, and to get our itineraries and guides on all the destinations we visit!