If you’ve already travelled in Bali you don’t need much explanation to understand why the island ranks among the most romantic destinations on the planet. For those of you who haven’t visited Bali yet, just think of a tropical island where a luxuriant nature meets a culture full of colorful offerings and cheerful processions. Imagine incredible sunsets over the Indian Ocean, delightful massages, succulent food, spirituality and joy.
This is not a dream but the reality of what love birds will find when they pick the right spots and activities during their stay on the Island of Gods. With February, the month of love, just around the corner, we thought there was no better time than now to seek out the best romantic activities in Bali.
Proven Classics
The beach fronts of Canggu and Jimbaran are two destinations not to overlook when seeking the right place for a romantic dinner. They are famous for a reason and they will reward you with stunning sunsets and a great selection of succulent dishes. In Jimbaran, the long sandy beach makes for a great setting for couples wanting to share a privileged moment beside the ocean, while in Canggu you can enjoy the intimacy of a gourmet picnic in bed– on the beach!
Further along on the western coast of Bali is the temple of Tanah Lot. Arguably the most iconic sunset you will find on the island, this destination attracts many tourists all year long and though it can be crowded at times, it remains to be a charming and magical scene as the day turns to dusk. The cultural town of Ubud has yet another type of romantic vibe, one that is certainly attractive to couples looking to take a break from the busy south of Bali and dive deeper into Balinese traditions. Here you can participate in spiritual activities that encourage you to reconnect your body and soul, such as outdoor yoga or meeting with healers. For a truly intimate retreat, see the dreamy one bedroom Villa Shamballa located in the midst of Ubud’s rainforest.
Trendy Destinations
If you’re looking for VIP treatment in Bali, head to Seminyak; known as the epicentre of shopping, hip clubs and high end restaurants, trendy Seminyak is THE place to splurge and treat your special someone to a night out on the town. Stay close by at Lakshmi Villa Solo for secluded, luxury accommodation.
A good alternative with all the ingredients for a romantic night out inBali is to invite your date to a dinner set up in Kuta in a private luxurious tent by the beach. Follow this by cruising over to Seminyak’s Potato Head Beach Club and sip some cocktails next to its infinity pool facing the ocean.
The next day, do take the opportunity to visit some of the lavish spas that Bali has to offer.
With its luxurious interiors, professional therapists and services, Prana Spa sure knows how to spoil any pair of lovebirds! Located in the heart of Seminyak, you’ll get all the attention you need in their middle-eastern inspired private suites- flowery beds, saunas, jacuzzis and an incredible selection of spa treatments.
After your spa, you should consider bringing your special one on a stunning sunset cruise around Bali’s magnificent neighbouring islands. After all, there can never be too much of a good thing, right!?
Another option is to spend the night over in Nusa Lembongan, waking up by the beach, enjoying some snorkeling and romantic time in paradise.
Off the Beaten Track
Now, if you’re tired of the same old setups and sceneries and want to get off the beaten track for your romantic holiday, Bali is the place for all kinds of fantasies. Make your partner feel extra special as you shower her (or him!) with a jewelry creation of your own. For a fun and unusual day practicing the local craft, seek out one of the many silver jewelry workshops around Ubud and Sanur. Creating something unique will mean a lot to your partner; don’t you think diamonds are overrated now?
You can also go the opposite way and walk hand in hand on the sea bed of the Indian Ocean surrounded by all sort of beautiful fish, turtles and seahorses. If you’re seriously considering marrying your significant other, you can take advantage of a helicopter ride and blow your partner away with the most spectacular proposal you could imagine.
Assuming the answer is “yes”, you guys can go from there to a sensational dinner in Ubud’s rice fields, where a Balinese performance will make your evening even more romantic and memorable.
Local Ways
During your travels in Bali, you might witness the local lovebirds going on dates the ‘Indonesian way’. If you follow their footsteps, you will probably end up on the famous Double-Six beach in Seminyak to have a late afternoon Bakso (a soup consisting of meat balls, noodles and vegetables) until sunset. Other popular destinations for Balinese couples are the city parks in Denpasar: Puputan and Lapangan Niti Mandala.
Located near the big Badung market, Puputan Square is where lovers hang around the Catur Muka statue and lay on the grass. In Lapangan Niti Mandala Park, the street food vendors sell Es Buah (a kind of fruit dessert with candies and sweetened condensed milk) or Es Kelapa Muda (fresh young coconut). North of Ubud, teenagers take their dates to Campuhan Hill (also called “Bukit Cinta”, literally “The Love Hill”) to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. The site is so romantic that locals had to put boards up reminding visitors “not to get wild” while enjoying the moment.
Beyond the clichés, Bali remains an authentic love island where couples can still find hidden corners to spend the most romantic of times. Often dubbed as a honeymoon destination, there is no shortage of activities and ambiences for you to explore. So take a chance and check out the best romantic activities that Bali has to offer!
This article was written by eOasia’s very own Thibaud
