Top 10 Water Sports And Activities In Bali, Indonesia

Nicole
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 5 min read

Bali is one of Indonesia’s islands and is the country’s most popular tourist destination. With volcanoes rising up around it, its landmark rice paddies, and beautiful beaches, it’s certainly easy to see why. The island offers a wide range of activities: those interested in cultural heritage can explore religious sites, yogis can go on relaxing retreats, and partygoers can head to the south of the island and explore the bars. And, being surrounded by water means that there are plenty of water-based activities to enjoy. So, keep reading because we’ve compiled a list of our favourite water sports and activities in Bali.

1. Telaga Waja River rafting

water sports in bali | telaga waja river rafting

We’ll start our list off with white water rafting down the Telaga Waja River. You’ll arrive at the river in east Bali and be treated to a selection of coffee. Once properly caffeinated, your three-hour journey will begin. The river’s rapids are moderate in difficulty, so there will be plenty of excitement, but you don’t need to be an expert water rafter to enjoy it. Along the 14-kilometre (8.7-mile) course, you pass the Rendang Village, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the mountains and rice fields. You’ll even be provided with a buffet lunch, so you’ll leave with full tummies and a great experience.

2. Mount Batur sunrise hike

water sports in bali | mount batur sunrise hike

Our next option is perfect for early risers. This Mount Batur sunrise hike starts in the wee hours of the morning, when you’ll journey from your hotel to the active volcano of Mount Batur. Your guide will take you on a one-and-a-half hour trek up to the top of Bali’s highest volcanic crater. The guides are locals who have been climbing the mountain since childhood, so be sure to follow their lead and ask them questions about the region. You’ll arrive at the top on time to watch the sunrise. Take in the surroundings, while enjoying breakfast as day breaks. You’ll then head back down the mountain and stop at a hot spring, where you can relax your muscles after all that climbing. On your way back to the hotel, you’ll also stop at a coffee plantation. What a busy morning!

3. Northern charm tour: Lake Bratan, Handara Gate, waterfall, and swing

water sports in bali | northern charm tour: lake bratan, handara gate, waterfall, and swing

Here we have the Northern Charm tour. This tour will bring you to the north of Bali, where you’ll explore some of the islands most iconic sites - perfect for those who like to curate an impeccable Instagram feed! Your journey will start at Lake Beratan, where you’ll see a temple sitting on an island in a lake. Then you’ll head to Handara Gate, one of the country’s most Instagrammed spots. You’ll then trek to the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, where you can swim in a natural pool. And, finally, you’ll visit the Wanagiri Hidden Hills, where you can take in the sights on a jungle swing. Along the way, your guide will share insights into each location and the area’s history and culture - a great way to snap some memories and learn more about the place you’re visiting.

Tip from Content Creator

Handara Gate

Since Handara Gate is so Instagrammable, there might be a long line to take pictures. But as you can see, it's worth the wait.

Tip from Content Creator

Handara Gate

Photo and video of Handara Gate shared by content creator from the Philippines, Johnny Ferniz.

4. Nusa Penida full-day tour

water sports in bali | nusa penida full-day tour

This Nusa Penida full-day tour is a perfect option for those who love being in the water. Your journey will begin by taking a fast boat to Nusa Penida, a small island. There, you’ll be able to spend some time at Kelingking Beach, one of Bali’s most beautiful spots with tall cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean. Then, head to Broken Beach, where you can splash around in a natural pool. Finally, you’ll make your way to Crystal Bay, a popular spot for diving and snorkelling. On a warm, sunny Balinese day, this is the perfect tour to join!

Bali Tour Guide

toni kenpachi

Toni Kenpachi

Hello my name is Toni and I live in Jakarta- Indonesia, I've been working as a Tour Guide since 2008, I have licensed from Jakarta City Government Tourism Office, I choose to be a Tourist guide due to my background education because I graduated from Tourism Academy, I'll be glad to assist your trip in Indonesia especially in Jakarta and surrounding areas also if you would like to do overland t... Read more

Tours by Toni

Bali Tour Guide

Dori Januhari

Dori Januhari

I am a legal and licensed tourist guide from Indonesia. I have been guiding for 20 years. I live in Jakarta, Indonesia, but I have traveled to many places in the country. My guiding areas are Java, Bali, and Lombok Island. I obtained my license from the Indonesia Tourism Ministry. On days when there is no tour, I work as an English and German private teacher, teaching mathematics and science ph... Read more

Tours by Dori

5. Waterbom one-day instant entry ticket

Next up we have Waterbom Bali, a water park with plenty of water-based activities to enjoy. This ticket will get you a day pass to the park, so you can take in all it has to offer. Try out all the waterslides, from the moderate to the extreme, or head to the Lazy River and enjoy a calming ride on the water. You can even relax in a private gazebo in the gardens or head to the spa for a rejuvenating treatment. And, of course, there are plenty of restaurants on site for when you get hungry. What makes Waterbom different from any other water park? Its designers worked hard to ensure the park complements the island’s natural beauty. Half of the park remains green space, meaning native species call it home while you’re having fun on the slides!

Book Tours : Waterbom Bali Ticket

6. Water sports package

This next option is perfect for the thrill-seekers. This water sports package allows you to enjoy four action-packed activities in one outing. The package includes pickup from your hotel and you will be driven to Bintang Beach Club Dive & Water Sport, located in Tanjung Benoa. The day’s first adventure will be a round of parasailing above the beach, where you’ll be able to take in the beautiful sights around you. Then, you’ll enjoy a ride on a Banana Boat. You can then splash around on the Rolling Donut ride, a larger inflatable raft pulled behind a boat. And, finally, you’ll take a joyride on a jet ski. The whole tour will last about three hours and you’ll be dropped back off at your hotel.

7. Snorkelling tour at the Blue Lagoon

Up next, we have another underwater activity. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to Blue Lagoon Snorkeling at Padang Bay Village. It’s a beautiful beach with white sand and clear water. All snorkelling equipment is provided, allowing you to view colourful coral, a wide variety of fish, sea turtles, squid, and reef sharks. You’re also welcome to relax on the beach when you need a break or want to work on your tan. After your snorkelling session, you’ll be provided with lunch, so you can head back to your hotel with a full tummy.

8. USS Liberty shipwreck scuba diving

For a truly unique snorkelling experience, look no further than the USS Liberty Shipwreck scuba diving tour. You’ll head to Tulamben, in the east of Bali, where the wreck is located. With a certified instructor to help you along the way, this dive is perfect for both beginners and advanced divers. You’ll get two 35-minute sessions to explore the Soviet shipwreck and the marine life that call it home. In between each dive, you’ll be served a Balinese lunch.

9. Half-day white river rafting

We’ll end our list with another whitewater rafting tour. This one will take you to the Ayung River. You can choose an afternoon or morning session and you’ll be rafting for two hours. Along the river, you’ll see plenty of natural beauty, including waterfalls and exotic wildlife. At the end of your rafting journey, you’ll get to enjoy a buffet lunch at a nearby restaurant - the perfect way to replenish your body after an adventure-filled journey! The tour includes pick up and drop off from your hotel.

10. Sea Walker experience

Have you ever wanted to walk on the ocean floor and get up close and personal with marine life? Well, here’s your chance! Your tour will take place at Nusa Dua Beach. Change into your swimsuit and the guides will explain all you need to know. You’ll be supplied with a special helmet, which allows you to breathe as normal. Its large design means you can see underwater life up close and it even allows you to keep your glasses on or your contacts in! You don’t need any special training and it’s easier than scuba diving. It’s certainly a unique experience and reviewers call it a must-try!

Exciting Bali

From exploring shipwrecks and water parks to whitewater rafting and ocean floor walking, there are so many water-based activities to explore in Bali. And, you don’t have to worry about your skill level, as each tour offers experienced guides to help you through the adventure. So book a tour or two for your trip and start getting excited to explore Bali!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Nicole is an American expat living in London, England. When she moved from the midwest to London in 2012, it was her first time leaving the US. She has traveled steadily since then, making trips...View profile

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