With its great surf beaches, warm weather, rich culture and friendly locals, Bali consistently tops the holiday destination wish list for Aussie travellers.
Online travel booking platform, Skyscanner, has confirmed that our strong interest in the Indonesian island shows no sign of slowing down, with a 29 percent year-on-year increase in searches to travel as the weather heats up.
Whether you’re a first timer to Bali or a seasoned veteran, Skyscanner has revealed the top five secret Bali hotspots to take you off the beaten tourist track and leave you feeling inspired for more.
1. Indulge at La Laguna
Foodies and hippies will love this quirky tapas bar located right on the beach in Canggu. Offering delicious cocktails, local seafood, tapas and skewers, La Laguna is decked out in colourful huts, cushions, and gypsy caravans giving it its unique bohemian vibe. The only way to reach it is over the wooden bridge that stretches over the lagoon to the beach, adding to its mystic appeal.
2. Chill out at Yoga Barn
Get out of the hustle and bustle and join a yoga class in Ubud. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or a beginner, the Yoga Barn has a range of classes suited to all levels. Find your inner peace as you look out over the beautiful rice paddies and surrounding rainforest. Afterwards, enjoy a green smoothie or head to Soma for delicious zucchini noodles and grilled fish.
3. Explore the secret canyons of Sukawati
Bali has many natural mysteries, and the secret canyons at Beji Guwang are not to be missed. This secluded, sacred location is made up of abstract shaped rocks and turquoise coloured water wells, making it a popular swimming spot amongst locals. The one-hour hike it takes to get you there is totally worth it – walk through the magnificent canyons and see the colours of the rocks light up before your eyes.
4. Take a spiritual journey at Pura Luhur Lempuyang
Perched on top of Bisbis Hill, Pura Luhur Lempuyang is the largest and holiest Hindu temple located in East Bali. Whilst the journey is challenging and steep with more than 1,700 stairs to climb, the hike is well worth it when you reach the top of the mountain to an incredible view of the nearby volcano and adjacent hilltops.
5. Soak up the sun at Karma Beach Club
Karma Beach is so remote and isolated, that you will need to take the inclinator down to the bottom of the cliff. Once you’re there, you’ll find crystal clear water lapping onto white sand, relaxing sun chairs, and the ultimate beach bar – the Karma Beach Club. Spend the day stand-up paddle boarding, swimming, and lounging by the cabana, before enjoying a sundowner cocktail at the bar.
If Bali tops your next holiday wish list, be savvy and plan early to bag the best travel bargains, such as subscribing to Skyscanner’s Price Alerts and be among the first to know when prices are at their premium.
