Bali : Day Trips

Each of these four trips takes you outside Bali’s main tourist corridor — to a neighbouring island, up a volcanic ridge, or into the quieter eastern coast. They require an early start and a full day, so choosing the right one matters. The trade-off is always the same: the further you go, the more rewarding the scenery, but the longer the drive. Travjoy has vetted each route for reliability, safety, and whether the payoff justifies the travel time.

Which Day Trip Matches Your Trip?

• Want dramatic coastal scenery and don’t mind a boat crossing? → Nusa Penida Island — cliffs, beaches, and manta ray snorkelling.
• Want a physical challenge with a volcanic sunrise reward? → Mount Batur — 2am start, moderate trek, breakfast at the summit.
• Willing to leave Bali overnight for something rare? → Mount Ijen — blue sulphur flames visible only before dawn.
• Prefer a relaxed day with cultural stops and less driving? → East Bali Tours — water palaces, rice terraces, traditional villages.

If You Visit Only One — Editor’s Pick

Nusa Penida Island. The coastal landscape is unlike anything else in Bali — towering limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and viewpoints that justify the 45-minute fast boat from Sanur. A single-day tour covers Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach. The roads on the island are rough, so go with an organised tour rather than self-driving. If you prefer mountains to coastline, swap this for Mount Batur — the sunrise trek is Bali’s most popular active-adventure day trip for good reason.