Bali with Kids
Bali is often associated with romantic getaways, yoga retreats, and vibrant nightlife, but it’s also an incredible destination for families. The island offers a wide range of kid-friendly activities that combine fun, safety, and education—making it an ideal holiday spot for travelers with children.
From engaging cultural experiences and wildlife encounters to beach activities and adventure parks, Bali promises a memorable trip for every member of the family. Here’s a detailed guide to the best things to do in Bali with kids.
1. Bali Safari and Marine Park
This is one of the most popular family attractions in Bali, and for good reason. Bali Safari and Marine Park offers a unique opportunity for kids to see animals in open habitats. The park is home to over 100 species including endangered animals like the Komodo dragon, orangutan, and Bali mynah.
Highlights include a safari bus ride through animal enclosures, animal feeding sessions, and educational wildlife shows. The park also features a water play zone and aquarium, keeping children entertained throughout the day.
Why it’s great for kids: It’s fun, interactive, and teaches children about animal conservation and biodiversity in an engaging way.
2. Waterbom Bali
Located in Kuta, Waterbom Bali is one of Asia’s top-rated water parks. With a wide range of slides and pools catering to all age groups, this park is perfect for a day of safe and supervised water play. There are gentler rides for toddlers, as well as more thrilling slides for teens and adults.
The park also emphasizes environmental sustainability, with over half of the property maintained as green space.
Why it’s great for kids: Exciting water rides, shaded rest areas, and a safe, clean environment make it a hit for families.
3. Bali Treetop Adventure Park
Set within the Bali Botanical Garden in Bedugul, this eco-friendly park offers tree-top obstacle courses designed for all ages. Children can test their balance and coordination on ziplines, suspension bridges, and nets.
All activities are conducted under strict safety standards, and trained staff are present to assist and supervise.
Why it’s great for kids: Encourages physical activity and builds confidence in a beautiful natural setting.
4. Ubud Monkey Forest
A visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud offers kids a chance to get close to Bali’s long-tailed macaques while learning about the island’s spiritual and ecological heritage. The forest is also home to ancient temples and massive banyan trees, offering plenty of shade and scenic spots for families to explore.
Visitors should follow guidelines such as not feeding the monkeys or bringing food to avoid any unwelcome attention.
Why it’s great for kids: It’s both an adventurous and cultural experience, offering interaction with animals in a lush, forested environment.
5. Bali Bird Park
Located in Gianyar, the Bali Bird Park is a beautifully maintained sanctuary with over 1,000 birds from around the world. Walkthrough aviaries allow children to interact with colorful parrots, flamingos, and peacocks. Educational bird shows and feeding sessions provide an informative twist to the experience.
Why it’s great for kids: Educational and colorful, this park is perfect for young nature lovers.
6. Beach Days and Sandcastles
Bali’s beaches can be a playground of endless fun for children. Sanur Beach, in particular, is ideal for families because of its calm waters and shallow shoreline. The beachfront has a paved path perfect for stroller walks, bike rides, or just watching the waves.
Jimbaran Beach is also a great family spot, especially in the evening when the beachside restaurants offer fresh seafood dinners with space for kids to play in the sand.
Why it’s great for kids: Swimming, building sandcastles, and enjoying a sunset meal right on the beach.
7. Traditional Balinese Dance Classes and Workshops
Give your children a taste of Balinese culture through art and dance classes. Many cultural centers in Ubud offer family-friendly workshops where kids can learn how to play gamelan instruments, create traditional offerings, or try out Balinese dance.
These classes are often conducted by local artists and are kept short and interactive to maintain children’s interest.
Why it’s great for kids: Cultural education made fun and hands-on.
8. Bali Equestrian Centre
Located in Canggu, this international-standard equestrian center offers pony rides and beginner horseback riding lessons in a safe, controlled environment. The center is family-oriented, with a playground and restaurant on-site, making it easy to spend an entire morning or afternoon there.
Why it’s great for kids: Horseback riding is a thrilling and confidence-boosting experience for many children.
9. Cooking Classes for Kids
Bali’s family-friendly cooking schools introduce children to the joys of preparing food. Classes usually start with a local market visit, followed by hands-on sessions where kids learn to make simple dishes like satay, nasi goreng, or banana fritters.
These classes are often tailored for families, with easy tasks and gentle supervision.
Why it’s great for kids: It’s creative, tasty, and gives them a new skill to take home.
What to Keep in Mind When Traveling with Kids in Bali
Health and Safety: Stick to bottled water, use child-safe sunscreen, and carry a basic first-aid kit.
Transport: Hire a private driver for full-day trips. Car seats are not always standard, so request them in advance if needed.
Food: Balinese cuisine can be spicy, but there are plenty of Western and milder food options across the island.
Accommodations: Choose hotels or villas with child-friendly amenities such as pools, high chairs, and babysitting services.
Final Thoughts
Bali is not only a destination for relaxation and adventure but also a playground for young minds. With a perfect mix of nature, culture, education, and fun, it caters to families looking for more than just a vacation. Whether you’re splashing in a waterpark, feeding exotic birds, or learning how to cook local dishes, the island creates opportunities for families to bond, explore, and learn together.
Plan thoughtfully, and you’ll find that Bali is one of the most rewarding travel experiences for families with kids.