Bali Family Travel Guide:
Perfect Trip with Kids
Kid-friendly planning, safety tips, and activities for American families
Why Bali is Perfect for American Families
Bali has become one of the top family destinations for American travelers, and for good reason. The island offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences, beach fun, and adventure activities that appeal to kids of all ages—all while being surprisingly affordable and safe for families.
This comprehensive guide will help you plan a stress-free Bali family vacation with age-appropriate activities, safety considerations, and practical tips specifically for American families traveling with children.
Family-Safe
Low crime rate, friendly locals, and excellent healthcare facilities make Bali safe for families
Affordable
Family villas, kid meals, and activities cost 50-70% less than similar US destinations
Kid-Friendly
Balinese culture loves children—expect warm welcomes and helpful locals everywhere
Quick Family Facts
Best Ages
All ages welcome, ideal for 3-15 year olds
Ideal Duration
10-14 days for families (allows for jet lag recovery)
Best Season
April-October (dry season, school breaks)
Family Budget
$150-300/day for family of 4 (mid-range)
Family Cost Calculator
Calculate your complete family trip cost with child discounts and age-appropriate activities
Your Family Trip Cost
Daily Cost (In Bali)
$275
For 4 people
Total Trip Cost
$6750
Including flights from US
Note: Children under 12 receive 50% discount on food and activities. Accommodation is family-rate (villa or family room).
Best Family-Friendly Areas in Bali
Choose the right area based on your children's ages and family preferences
Sanur
Young kids, first-time families
Pros for Families
- Calm, shallow waters perfect for toddlers
- Paved beachfront path for strollers
- Quiet, relaxed atmosphere
- Many family-friendly restaurants
- Close to Bali Zoo and Safari Park
Considerations
- Fewer nightlife options
- Less trendy than Seminyak
- Limited surf opportunities
Accommodation
$50-150/night for family villa
Top Activities
Beach play, cycling, kite flying, boat trips
Ubud
School-age kids, nature lovers
Pros for Families
- Cultural and educational experiences
- Monkey Forest and animal encounters
- Rice terrace walks
- Cooking classes for families
- Cooler temperatures
Considerations
- No beaches (1 hour drive)
- More walking/stairs
- Can be crowded at attractions
Accommodation
$60-180/night for family villa
Top Activities
Temples, rice fields, animal parks, art classes
Seminyak/Canggu
Older kids, beach-loving families
Pros for Families
- Beach clubs with kids pools
- Excellent restaurants and cafes
- Shopping and entertainment
- Surf lessons for kids
- Modern amenities
Considerations
- Busy traffic
- Stronger waves (supervise kids)
- More expensive
- Less authentic Balinese culture
Accommodation
$80-250/night for family villa
Top Activities
Beach clubs, surfing, shopping, dining
Nusa Dua
All ages, resort families
Pros for Families
- Safe, gated resort area
- Pristine beaches
- Kids clubs at resorts
- Water sports facilities
- Close to airport (20 min)
Considerations
- Expensive
- Less authentic experience
- Limited local food options
- Isolated from real Bali
Accommodation
$150-400/night for resort
Top Activities
Resort facilities, water sports, beach
Pro Tip: Split Your Stay
Many families find success splitting their stay between 2-3 areas. For example:
Days 1-4: Sanur
Recover from jet lag, gentle beach time
Days 5-8: Ubud
Cultural experiences, animal encounters
Days 9-12: Seminyak
Beach clubs, surf lessons, shopping
Age-Specific Planning Guides
Tailored recommendations for every age group
Toddlers (1-4 years)
Best Activities
- Gentle beach play with calm waters
- Bali Zoo interactive feeding
- Short rice field walks (30 min max)
- Hotel pool time
- Simple temple visits (15-20 min)
- Playground time at beach clubs
What They Need
- Stroller-friendly paths (Sanur beachfront)
- Nap facilities at accommodation
- High chairs at restaurants
- Baby-changing facilities
- Quiet areas for rest time
Safety Priorities
- Pool gates and supervision essential
- Mosquito protection (nets, repellent)
- Sun protection (hats, rash guards)
- Avoid scooter traffic areas
- Keep hydrated in heat
Best Areas for This Age
Sanur, Nusa Dua (calm beaches, family resorts)
Kids (5-12 years)
Best Activities
- Surf lessons at kid-friendly beaches
- Monkey Forest with supervision
- Rice terrace exploration
- Cooking classes for kids
- Waterbom Bali waterpark
- Snorkeling trips
- Temple visits with stories
- Bike rides through villages
What They Need
- Engaging, educational experiences
- Mix of active and calm activities
- Kid-friendly food options
- Breaks between activities
- Age-appropriate challenges
Safety Priorities
- Scooter traffic awareness training
- Swimming supervision always
- Temple etiquette education
- Stay-together rules in crowds
- Emergency contact cards
Best Areas for This Age
Ubud (culture), Seminyak (surf), Sanur (balance)
Teens (13-17 years)
Best Activities
- Advanced surf lessons
- Scuba diving certification
- Mount Batur sunrise hike
- Photography workshops
- Traditional dance classes
- Cooking classes
- Beach volleyball
- Shopping in Seminyak
What They Need
- Some independence opportunities
- Social interaction with peers
- WiFi for staying connected
- Cool, Instagram-worthy spots
- Physical challenges
Safety Priorities
- Solo exploration guidelines
- Check-in times established
- Phone with local SIM card
- Know accommodation address
- Buddy system for activities
Best Areas for This Age
Canggu (surf culture), Ubud (adventure), Seminyak (social)
Top Family Activities in Bali
Kid-tested and parent-approved experiences
Animal Experiences
Bali Zoo
Interactive feeding, elephant rides, night safari
Ages
All ages
Cost
$25-35 per person
Duration
3-4 hours
Location
Gianyar (30 min from Ubud)
Pro Tip
Book breakfast with orangutans in advance
Mason Elephant Park
Ethical elephant encounters, feeding, bathing
Ages
5+ recommended
Cost
$40-80 per person
Duration
2-3 hours
Location
Taro, Ubud
Pro Tip
Morning visits are cooler and elephants more active
Monkey Forest Ubud
Wild monkeys in natural habitat, ancient temples
Ages
6+ (supervision required)
Cost
$5 per person
Duration
1-2 hours
Location
Central Ubud
Pro Tip
Remove sunglasses, hold bags tight, no food visible
Turtle Conservation
Learn about sea turtle protection, release babies
Ages
All ages
Cost
$10-20 donation
Duration
1 hour
Location
Serangan Island
Pro Tip
Best during hatching season (Apr-Sep)
Water Activities
Waterbom Bali
Asia's #1 waterpark with slides for all ages
Ages
All ages
Cost
$35-45 per person
Duration
Full day
Location
Kuta
Pro Tip
Arrive at opening (9am) to avoid crowds
Beach Clubs with Kids Pools
Finns, Potato Head, Canggu Club
Ages
All ages
Cost
$20-50 minimum spend
Duration
3-5 hours
Location
Seminyak, Canggu
Pro Tip
Book sunbeds in advance on weekends
Kids Surf Lessons
Gentle waves, patient instructors
Ages
6+ years
Cost
$30-50 per lesson
Duration
1.5-2 hours
Location
Seminyak, Canggu, Sanur
Pro Tip
Morning lessons have best conditions
Snorkeling Trips
Menjangan Island, Amed, Nusa Penida
Ages
8+ (confident swimmers)
Cost
$50-80 per person
Duration
Full day
Location
Various
Pro Tip
Choose calm water locations for kids
Cultural Activities
Temple Visits
Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, Tirta Empul
Ages
All ages
Cost
$2-5 per person
Duration
1-2 hours each
Location
Various
Pro Tip
Bring sarongs, explain cultural significance to kids
Traditional Dance Shows
Kecak fire dance, Barong dance
Ages
5+ years
Cost
$10-15 per person
Duration
1 hour
Location
Ubud, Uluwatu
Pro Tip
Uluwatu sunset dance is most dramatic
Family Cooking Classes
Market visit, traditional Balinese cooking
Ages
6+ years
Cost
$30-50 per person
Duration
3-4 hours
Location
Ubud, Seminyak
Pro Tip
Kids love making satay and spring rolls
Rice Terrace Walks
Tegallalang, Jatiluwih terraces
Ages
All ages
Cost
$2-5 entry
Duration
1-2 hours
Location
Ubud area
Pro Tip
Early morning for cooler temps and photos
Practical Family Planning
Essential logistics for traveling with kids in Bali
Accommodation
Family Villas (Best Choice)
- Private pool with safety gate
- Full kitchen for kid meals
- Multiple bedrooms for space
- Often includes daily cleaning
Cost: $80-200/night for 2-3 bedroom villa
Family Resorts
- Kids clubs and activities
- Babysitting services available
- Multiple pools and restaurants
- All-inclusive options
Cost: $150-400/night for family room
Pro Tip: Book villas with staff (cook, cleaner) for $20-30/day extra—worth it with kids!
Transportation
Private Driver (Recommended)
- Safest option for families
- Air-conditioned comfort
- Flexible schedule
- Driver knows kid-friendly stops
Cost: $40-60/day (10 hours)
Car Seats
Options for US families:
- Bring inflatable car seat from US
- Rent from Bali Baby Hire ($5-10/day)
- Request from villa/hotel in advance
Safety Warning: Never use scooters with kids. Traffic is chaotic and dangerous.
Food & Dining
Kid-Friendly Options
- Western food widely available (pasta, pizza, burgers)
- Mild Indonesian dishes: nasi goreng, mie goreng, satay
- Fresh fruit smoothies and juices
- Supermarkets have familiar snacks
Food Safety Tips
- Bottled water only (even for brushing teeth)
- Avoid ice unless at reputable restaurants
- Peel fruits yourself
- Choose busy restaurants (fresh food)
Best Family Restaurants
Crate Cafe, Sisterfields, Revolver, Watercress, Nook (all have kids menus)
Health & Safety
Before You Go
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid (consult pediatrician)
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation
- Bring medications from US (hard to find brands)
Essential Items
- Mosquito repellent (DEET 30%+)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ (bring from US)
- First aid kit with band-aids, antibiotic cream
- Electrolyte packets (for dehydration)
Medical Facilities
International hospitals with English-speaking doctors:
- • BIMC Hospital (Kuta, Nusa Dua, Ubud)
- • Siloam Hospital (Denpasar)
- • Kasih Ibu Hospital (Denpasar)
Emergency: Save BIMC 24/7 hotline: +62 361 761263
Sample Family Itineraries
Ready-to-use schedules designed for different age groups
Young Kids (Ages 2-6) - 7 Days
Gentle pace, short activities, plenty of pool time
Arrival & Settle In
Sanur
- Arrive Denpasar Airport (morning flight ideal)
- Private transfer to Sanur villa (30 min)
- Afternoon: Pool time and jet lag recovery
- Early dinner at villa
- Early bedtime (expect 7pm!)
Pro Tip
Keep Day 1 super light. Kids will be exhausted from 20+ hour journey.
Beach Day
Sanur
- Morning: Sanur Beach play (calm, shallow water)
- Build sandcastles, gentle swimming
- Lunch at beachfront cafe
- Afternoon: Nap time at villa
- Evening: Stroller walk on beach path
- Dinner at kid-friendly restaurant
Pro Tip
Sanur beach is perfect for toddlers—calm water, no big waves.
Animal Day
Bali Zoo
- Early breakfast (7am)
- Drive to Bali Zoo (30 min)
- Breakfast with Orangutans (book ahead!)
- Interactive animal feeding
- Lunch at zoo
- Return to villa for afternoon nap
- Evening pool time
Pro Tip
Zoo is best early before heat. Kids love feeding elephants and giraffes.
Transfer to Ubud
Ubud
- Morning: Pack and check out
- Stop at Tegenungan Waterfall (20 min)
- Arrive Ubud villa for lunch
- Afternoon: Pool and rest
- Evening: Short walk to Ubud center
- Dinner at family restaurant
Pro Tip
Break up drive with waterfall stop. Kids can splash in shallow pool.
Ubud Culture (Easy)
Ubud
- Morning: Rice terrace walk (30 min max)
- Visit traditional Balinese house
- Lunch in rice field cafe
- Afternoon: Villa pool time
- Evening: Traditional dance show (1 hour)
- Early dinner
Pro Tip
Keep temple visits short. Bring stroller for tired legs.
Relaxation Day
Ubud
- Sleep in!
- Morning: Villa pool and play
- Lunch at villa
- Afternoon: Optional short outing or rest
- Evening: Family massage at villa
- Pizza dinner (kids love it!)
Pro Tip
Schedule a do-nothing day. Kids need downtime.
Departure
Ubud to Airport
- Morning: Pack and play
- Check out after lunch
- Drive to airport (1.5 hours)
- Evening flight home
Pro Tip
Book evening flight so kids can nap before long journey.
Older Kids (Ages 7-14) - 10 Days
More adventure, cultural experiences, active days
Arrival
Sanur
- Arrive and transfer to Sanur
- Beach walk and dinner
- Early night
Pro Tip
Still keep arrival day light for jet lag.
Beach & Water Sports
Sanur
- Morning: Surf lesson or stand-up paddleboarding
- Beach lunch
- Afternoon: Snorkeling from beach
- Evening: Kite flying on beach
Pro Tip
Sanur is great for learning water sports—calm conditions.
Waterbom Bali
Kuta
- Full day at Waterbom waterpark
- Try all the slides!
- Lunch at park
- Return to Sanur evening
Pro Tip
Arrive at 9am opening. Bring waterproof phone case for photos.
Transfer to Ubud
Ubud
- Morning: Drive to Ubud (1 hour)
- Stop at Tegenungan Waterfall
- Check in to villa
- Afternoon: Ubud Monkey Forest
- Evening: Traditional dance show
Pro Tip
Teach kids monkey safety rules before forest visit.
Ubud Adventure
Ubud
- Morning: Rice terrace walk and swing
- Visit coffee plantation
- Lunch with rice field view
- Afternoon: Family cooking class
- Dinner: Eat what you cooked!
Pro Tip
Kids love the giant swings at Tegallalang. Book in advance.
Temple & Culture Day
Central Bali
- Morning: Tirta Empul water temple (participate in purification)
- Visit Gunung Kawi ancient temples
- Lunch at local warung
- Afternoon: Batik painting class
- Evening: Pool time at villa
Pro Tip
Bring swimwear for water temple. Very cool experience for kids.
Transfer to Seminyak
Seminyak
- Morning: Drive to Seminyak (1 hour)
- Stop at Tanah Lot Temple
- Check in to beach villa
- Afternoon: Beach club with kids pool
- Sunset on beach
Pro Tip
Finns Beach Club has great kids facilities.
Surf & Beach Day
Seminyak
- Morning: Surf lessons for whole family
- Beach lunch
- Afternoon: Shopping in Seminyak
- Evening: Beachfront dinner
Pro Tip
Double Six Beach is best for family surf lessons.
Uluwatu Day Trip
Uluwatu
- Morning: Drive to Uluwatu (45 min)
- Visit Uluwatu Temple on cliffs
- Lunch at Single Fin
- Afternoon: Beach time at Padang Padang
- Evening: Kecak Fire Dance at temple
- Return to Seminyak
Pro Tip
Uluwatu sunset dance is spectacular. Book tickets online.
Departure
Seminyak to Airport
- Morning: Last beach walk
- Souvenir shopping
- Lunch and pack
- Transfer to airport
Pro Tip
Leave 3 hours before flight. Traffic can be heavy.
Packing for Kids
What to bring from the US vs. what to buy in Bali
Must Bring from US
Prescription medications
Hard to find exact brands in Bali
Sunscreen SPF 50+
US brands more effective, expensive in Bali
Insect repellent (DEET 30%+)
For malaria-free mosquito protection
Favorite snacks
For picky eaters, familiar comfort foods
Electrolyte packets
Pedialyte or similar for dehydration
First aid supplies
Band-aids, antibiotic cream, thermometer
Rash guards
Sun protection for water activities
Water shoes
For rocky beaches and pools
Buy in Bali (Cheaper)
Swim diapers
Available at Circle K, Alfamart
Baby wipes
Cheaper than US, widely available
Bottled water
Buy in bulk at minimarkets
Beach toys
Cheap at local shops, leave behind
Hats and sunglasses
Inexpensive at markets
Light clothing
Cotton clothes cheap in Bali
Flip flops
$2-5 at local shops
Sarongs
Useful for temples, beach, $3-5
Stroller vs Baby Carrier
Bring stroller if:
Staying in Sanur (paved paths), resort areas, child under 2
Bring carrier if:
Visiting Ubud (stairs, uneven paths), temples, rice fields
Best option:
Lightweight umbrella stroller + soft carrier
Stroller works:
Sanur beach path, malls, airports, resorts
Stroller difficult:
Ubud center, temples, markets, rural areas
Pro tip:
Bring both if you have space—use each where appropriate
Entertainment for Travel Days
Tablet with downloads
Movies, shows, games for 20+ hour flight
Headphones
Kid-sized, volume-limited
Coloring books & crayons
Screen-free entertainment
Small toys
New toys for surprise factor
Snacks
Familiar favorites for comfort
Blanket/lovey
Comfort item from home
Sticker books
Quiet, engaging activity
Card games
For older kids, family bonding
Complete Family Packing Checklist
Documents
- Passports (6+ months validity)
- Visa on Arrival payment ready
- Travel insurance cards
- Vaccination records
- Emergency contact cards
Clothing
- Swimsuits (2-3 per child)
- Rash guards for sun protection
- Light, breathable clothes
- Light jacket for AC
- Temple-appropriate clothes
Gear
- Stroller and/or carrier
- Water bottles (reusable)
- Daypack for excursions
- Waterproof phone case
- Portable chargers
Common Family Travel Challenges
Problems you might face and how to solve them
Jet Lag with Kids
Bali is 15-16 hours ahead of US time zones. Kids may wake at 3am or be exhausted by 6pm for first few days.
Solutions
- Arrive in morning if possible—helps adjust faster
- Keep kids awake until local bedtime on Day 1
- Use natural light to reset circadian rhythm
- Plan easy activities for first 2-3 days
- Expect 3-5 days for full adjustment
- Melatonin for kids 6+ (consult pediatrician)
Pro Tip
Don't fight it completely—early mornings mean beautiful sunrise beach walks!
Picky Eaters
Indonesian food can be spicy or unfamiliar. Kids may refuse local dishes.
Solutions
- Western food widely available (pasta, pizza, burgers)
- Mild Indonesian options: nasi goreng, mie goreng, satay
- Book villa with kitchen—cook familiar meals
- Bring favorite snacks from US
- Try "safe" restaurants: Crate Cafe, Sisterfields
- Fresh fruit smoothies are kid favorites
Pro Tip
Most restaurants will make mild versions of dishes—just ask "tidak pedas" (not spicy).
Heat Management
Bali is hot and humid (85-95°F). Kids can overheat quickly, leading to crankiness.
Solutions
- Schedule activities for early morning (7-10am)
- Pool/rest time during hottest hours (11am-3pm)
- Constant hydration—water bottles everywhere
- Dress kids in light, breathable fabrics
- Seek AC breaks (malls, restaurants)
- Cooling towels for necks
Pro Tip
Plan one morning activity, then pool time, then one late afternoon activity. Don't overschedule!
Cultural Differences
Kids may be confused by different customs, language barriers, or attention from locals.
Solutions
- Explain Balinese culture before trip (books, videos)
- Teach basic Indonesian phrases
- Prepare for locals touching/photographing kids (common)
- Explain temple etiquette and dress codes
- Discuss traffic differences (scooters everywhere)
- Frame differences as learning opportunities
Pro Tip
Balinese people LOVE children. The attention is friendly, not intrusive. Teach kids to smile and say "terima kasih" (thank you).
Bali Belly Prevention
Traveler's diarrhea from unfamiliar bacteria. Kids are more susceptible.
Solutions
- Bottled water ONLY (even for brushing teeth)
- Avoid ice unless at reputable restaurants
- Peel fruits yourself
- Choose busy restaurants (fresh food)
- Hand sanitizer before every meal
- Probiotics starting 1 week before trip
- Bring Imodium and electrolyte packets
Pro Tip
If Bali belly strikes: rest, hydrate with electrolytes, bland foods (rice, bananas). Most cases resolve in 24-48 hours.
Overstimulation
New sights, sounds, smells can overwhelm kids. Meltdowns may increase.
Solutions
- Build in downtime every day
- Maintain some routines (bedtime, meals)
- Bring comfort items from home
- Limit activities to 1-2 per day
- Have quiet space at accommodation
- Watch for overstimulation signs (crankiness, clinginess)
Pro Tip
It's okay to skip activities if kids need rest. A happy, rested child > checking off every sight.
Remember: Flexibility is Key
Family travel rarely goes exactly as planned—and that's okay! The best memories often come from unexpected moments. Stay flexible, keep your sense of humor, and focus on enjoying time together rather than checking off every activity.
"The goal isn't a perfect trip—it's a memorable one your family will talk about for years."
Downloadable Family Planning Resources
Everything you need to plan and enjoy your Bali family trip
Family Itinerary Template
Customizable day-by-day planner with activity suggestions
Emergency Contact Card
Fillable card with hospitals, embassy, accommodation info
Kid-Friendly Restaurant List
Vetted restaurants with kids menus across all areas
Bali Activity Coloring Pages
Fun coloring sheets featuring Bali temples, animals, beaches
Medical Information Form
Record allergies, medications, insurance for emergencies
Family Packing Checklist
Complete checklist organized by age and trip type
Basic Indonesian Phrases for Kids
Simple phrases with pronunciation guide
Bali Safety Guide for Families
Comprehensive safety tips and emergency procedures
Complete Family Planning Kit
Download all 8 resources in one convenient package. Everything you need to plan a safe, fun, and stress-free Bali family vacation.
Next in the Series
Bali Solo Travel Guide
Planning a solo adventure to Bali? Learn about safety, meeting other travelers, solo-friendly accommodations, and making the most of your independent journey.
Test Your Family Travel Knowledge
Take a quick quiz to test what you've learned about family travel in Bali
Your Progress
Foundation Phase
3 of 3
Complete!
Time Invested
~60 min
In this guide