Day 1-2: Kuta and Seminyak – Surfing, Sunsets, and Budget Eats
Where to Stay: For budget accommodation, Kuta and Seminyak have plenty of options, including hostels like Capsule Hotel Bali and affordable guesthouses. Hostels can cost as little as $10-$15 per night, often with a friendly vibe perfect for meeting other travelers.Morning: Start your day in Kuta with a surf lesson. It’s one of the best spots for beginner surfers in Bali because of the gentle waves. Board rentals and lessons won’t set you back much, typically around $5 for a rental or $10-$15 with a group lesson.
Afternoon: After your surf, stroll along Kuta Beach or head to Seminyak for some window shopping in the quirky boutiques and artisan markets. If you’re hungry, grab a bite at Warung Murah or Warung Indonesia, where meals cost around $2-$4.
Evening: Sunset at Seminyak Beach is a must! Head to Double Six Beach, where you can grab a drink at one of the laid-back beach bars. For an affordable dinner, try the night markets for delicious and cheap local eats, like satay skewers and nasi goreng, for under $5.
Day 3-4: Ubud – Culture, Temples, and Rice Terraces
Where to Stay: Ubud offers affordable homestays where you can immerse yourself in Balinese family culture. A basic room in a homestay or a dorm in a hostel can be as low as $10-$20 per night.Morning: Begin with a stroll through the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. It’s both a cultural experience and a nature walk, costing around $5 for entry. Watch your belongings; the monkeys can be mischievous!
Afternoon: Explore Ubud’s famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces. It’s free to enter, though a small donation to the local farmers is appreciated. Spend an hour or so wandering through the lush green fields and taking photos. From there, you can walk to a nearby coffee plantation to sample some kopi luwak and learn about the coffee-making process.
Evening: Check out Ubud’s night market for some street food and local crafts. If you’re into traditional dance, grab a ticket for one of the evening dance performances at Ubud Palace. It’s a budget-friendly way to get a taste of Bali’s artistic culture, with tickets costing around $5.
Day 5-6: East Bali – Temples and Water Palaces
Where to Stay: Stay in Padangbai, a coastal town that’s both quiet and budget-friendly, with accommodation options starting from around $10 per night.Morning: Start your day with a visit to Tirta Gangga Water Palace, a beautiful spot featuring fountains, gardens, and koi ponds. Entry costs about $2, and you can even feed the fish for an extra dollar.
Afternoon: After Tirta Gangga, head to Pura Lempuyang for a view of the famous “Gates of Heaven.” Getting there requires a short hike, but the entrance is free. If you want to capture that iconic Instagram shot, be prepared to wait, as it’s a popular spot.
Evening: End your day back in Padangbai, where you can enjoy some fresh seafood for a reasonable price at one of the local warungs (small restaurants) along the beach.
Day 7: Nusa Penida Day Trip – Adventure and Stunning Views
How to Get There: Nusa Penida is a short ferry ride from Sanur, costing around $10-$15 each way.What to Do: Nusa Penida is famous for its dramatic coastal landscapes. Rent a scooter (around $5-$6 for the day) and explore spots like Kelingking Beach (also known as T-Rex Bay) and Broken Beach. Both are free to visit, but the views are priceless!
Insider Tip: Riding a scooter on Nusa Penida can be tricky, as some roads are quite rough. If you’re not comfortable driving, consider hiring a driver or joining a budget-friendly group tour, which usually costs around $30-$40 and includes transportation.
Day 8-9: Munduk – Waterfalls and Scenic Views
Where to Stay: Munduk offers charming budget guesthouses in the mountains, with prices as low as $10-$15 per night.Morning: Start your day by visiting the Munduk Waterfalls. There are several waterfalls in the area, and the hike to each is manageable even for beginners. Entry fees are low, generally around $1-$2 per waterfall.
Afternoon: Check out the Twin Lakes of Buyan and Tamblingan. These serene lakes are surrounded by misty mountains and are a perfect spot for quiet reflection and nature photography. The area also offers a few small cafes where you can relax and enjoy the view.
Evening: Munduk is known for its cool mountain climate, so it’s a great spot to unwind after a long day of hiking. Enjoy a simple, affordable meal at your guesthouse or a local warung.
Day 10-12: Canggu – Chill Vibes and Beach Life
Where to Stay: Canggu has budget-friendly hostels like The Farm Hostel or Lay Day Surf Hostel, where a dorm bed will cost around $10-$15 per night.Morning: Start with a yoga class at a local studio. Canggu is known for its wellness scene, and many studios offer drop-in classes for $5-$8. Afterward, head to one of Canggu’s trendy (and affordable) cafes for a smoothie bowl or avocado toast.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon relaxing at Batu Bolong Beach. The beach is free, and you can rent a beach chair and umbrella for about $3 if you want to relax for a while. Canggu’s beaches are known for their chilled-out vibe and beautiful sunsets.
Evening: Head to a local warung for some authentic Indonesian food on the cheap. For nightlife, Canggu’s beach bars are a great place to meet other travelers and enjoy live music. Entry is free at most places, so you can enjoy the atmosphere without spending too much.
Day 13-14: Amed – Snorkeling, Diving, and Laid-back Vibes
Where to Stay: Amed is a peaceful fishing village with affordable guesthouses and homestays, many offering ocean views for as low as $10-$20 per night. Staying in a local homestay is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to experience the slower pace of coastal Bali.Morning: Amed is famous for its underwater world, especially among snorkelers and divers. Rent snorkeling gear for around $5 or join a diving trip if you’re interested in exploring shipwrecks like the USAT Liberty, a World War II ship sunk near the shore. The clear waters make it easy to spot vibrant corals, exotic fish, and even turtles!
Afternoon: After a morning in the water, stroll through Amed’s village and relax at a beachside warung with some fresh grilled fish and nasi campur (mixed rice) for under $5. Amed’s beaches have black volcanic sand, making it a unique place for beach lovers. You can also rent a scooter (around $5 per day) to explore nearby bays and enjoy some quiet time.
Evening: Amed is known for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets. End your day at Jemeluk Bay Viewpoint, where you’ll get panoramic views of the bay, Mount Agung, and the fishermen returning with their boats. For dinner, try a beachfront BBQ spot, where you can get freshly grilled seafood at reasonable prices.
Day 15: Sanur – Relaxation and Local Markets
Where to Stay: Sanur offers laid-back vibes without the crowds, with budget hotels and guesthouses starting at around $10-$15 per night. You’ll find accommodations close to the beach, perfect for some final relaxation before your departure.Morning: Sanur is great for cycling. Rent a bike for about $2-$3, and ride along the beachside promenade, passing colorful fishing boats and local families enjoying their day. The path is flat and shaded, making it perfect for an easygoing morning.
Afternoon: Explore the Sindhu Night Market, where you can try a variety of Balinese snacks like pisang goreng (fried bananas) and bakso (Indonesian meatball soup) for just a few dollars. It’s a lively spot where locals and travelers mix, and it’s one of the best places in Bali to get authentic street food on a budget.
Evening: Wrap up your Bali trip with a sunset walk along Sanur Beach. If you’re still up for more, check out the live music at one of Sanur’s small beach bars. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a lovely way to end your time in Bali.
Additional Tips for Solo Travelers in Bali
Stay Flexible with Plans: Bali has a rhythm of its own, and plans can change due to weather, ceremonies, or even spontaneous invitations from locals. Stay open to the unexpected — often, the best experiences come from last-minute plans or chance encounters.Look for Free Workshops and Events: Many hostels and cafes in places like Ubud and Canggu host free or low-cost workshops and events. From yoga sessions and art classes to language exchanges, these activities are a fantastic way to connect with people and learn something new.
Get a Local SIM Card: Staying connected is essential for solo travelers, whether it’s for navigation, staying in touch with friends, or finding recommendations. SIM cards in Bali are affordable, with data plans starting at just a few dollars. Telkomsel and XL Axiata are two popular providers with good coverage across the island.
Join Group Tours for Expensive Activities: For pricier activities like scuba diving or exploring remote islands, joining a group tour can help reduce costs. Plus, group tours are a great way to meet fellow travelers, especially if you’re on your own.
Sample Budget Breakdown for Two Weeks in Bali
Here’s an estimated budget for a solo traveler spending two weeks in Bali on a budget. This example includes basic expenses like accommodation, food, and activities but excludes flights:Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) per day | Total (for 14 days) |
---|---|---|
Meals | $5 - $10 | $70 - $140 |
Accommodation | $10 - $15 | $140 - $210 |
Transportation | $3 - $7 | $42 - $98 |
Activities & Entry Fees | $5 - $15 | $70 - $210 |
Total Estimated Cost | $23 - $47 | $322 - $658 |
This rough estimate gives a good idea of what a budget-friendly trip
could look like. With a bit of flexibility and local insight, you can
have an amazing time without overspending.
Bali offers so many
experiences for solo travelers on a budget. Each town and region has its
own character, from the surf vibes in Kuta to the cultural richness of
Ubud and the peacefulness of Amed. Traveling solo lets you set your own
pace, take time for yourself, and explore hidden corners that aren’t on
the usual tourist path. By following these itineraries and tips, you’ll
have everything you need for an affordable, unforgettable adventure in
Bali.
So, pack your bags, keep an open heart, and get ready to
make the most of this beautiful island. Bali has a way of making solo
travelers feel right at home, and by the end of your trip, you’ll see
why it’s so beloved around the world. Safe travels, and enjoy every
minute of your journey!