Why You Should Visit Bali Right Now

With its soft sand beaches, steep mountain trails and lush tropical jungles, Bali is the perfect playground for adventuresome travellers or those who just want to get away. On the western coast, the once sleepy fishing village of Jimbaran is now a bustling hub of shopping, culture and some of the world’s best seafood. Here are the top reasons to visit.

Play ’Til the Sun Goes Down

Bali’s beaches are perfect for lounging, but they’re also ideal spots for active play. Roll out your yoga mat for a true sun salutation or head into the Indian Ocean for a day of sailing, kayaking or snorkelling.

Savour World-Class Seafood

Jimbaran’s days as a remote fishing village are long gone, but locals still reel in their share of prime seafood. For an authentic slice of village life, spend a morning at the Jimbaran Fish Market, where local vendors display row upon row of fresh-caught fish, squid and shellfish. The assortment is staggering, and everything on display is caught in the early hours of the morning.

Surf Sweet Waves

If you’ve ever considered learning to surf, you’ll find optimum training grounds in Bali. Some of the world’s best breaks draw pros to the coast of Jimbaran, but beginners will enjoy gentle, shoulder-height waves in ample supply.

Find Your Style

Fashion takes centre stage in Seminyak—just 20 minutes from Jimbaran—where stylish clothing and jewellery blend modern appeal with traditional Balinese artistry. Eclectic boutiques line the streets, but a good starting point is Jalan Laksmana, where hip cafés anchor Bali’s most upscale shops. While you’re here, don’t miss the contemporary exhibitions at Biasa Art Gallery. Owned by fashion designer Susana Perini, Biasa houses an impressive and ever-changing collection of works by established and rising Indonesian artists.

Visit a Temple

Perched at cliff’s edge on the Bukit Peninsula, Bali’s southernmost point, the Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s oldest and most unique. Champion surfers battle the waves below, but the real action is on the temple grounds where locals perform ritual Kecak and fire dances each night at sunset.

Spa the Day Away

Bali’s technicolour landscape and balmy weather work wonders on stressed-out travellers, but a little extra help from a world-class spa never hurts. Unwind at the Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, where ancient island rituals, local ingredients and traditional healing techniques inspire a range of health and beauty treatments. The oceanfront Water Valley Ritual is a must-try indulgence that blends traditional Balinese massage with a rose quartz facial and heaps of anti-aging products. After 120 minutes you’ll glow from head to toe.

Go Trekking

Bali has a way of kicking your senses into overdrive. The island’s sights, sounds and general good vibes are enough to keep you gaping until the sun goes down. One of the coolest adventures lies an hour and a half north of Jimbaran. The Elephant Park of Desa Taro is a sprawling preserve where you can ride elephants and watch them bathe. You earn a lunch for your ride, but you may be too mesmerized to eat.

Dine Seaside

Smoky food carts and roadside cafés, or warungs, serve up some of Bali’s most authentic cuisine. Along Jimbaran Bay, the seaside versions of these local eateries grill fresh fish over coconut husks while diners gather at picnic tables on the sand. The beachside barbecue atmosphere draws heavy crowds at sunset so plan to go early if you want the best view.

Go Back in Time

The eastern village of Tenganan is well worth the hour-and-a-half car ride from Jimbaran. One of Bali’s oldest villages, Tenganan preserves the pre-Hindu culture of Bali Aga, and residents here maintain the unique rituals and lifestyle practised by their ancestors. A trip to Tenganan is also a trip to Bali’s rural side, where local farming and cloth weaving are part of everyday life; villagers are happy to take a break from their work and chat awhile.

Editors’ Note: Need help planning a special celebration in Bali? We recommend a visit to Milestone Celebrations, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay’s go-to guide for creating epic events.