Bali in 2026 has solidified its reputation as the premier global destination for households seeking a blend of adventurous discovery and refined coastal relaxation. The island offers an extraordinary variety of activities that cater to children’s curiosity and the high standards of luxury-seeking parents. Whether you are exploring ancient water palaces or enjoying high-tech aquatic play, the following guide outlines the most essential things to do in Bali with family.
Water Adventures and Coastal Fun
The island’s unique geography offers a diverse aquatic playground, from the calm lagoons of the east to the world-famous water parks of the south. Below are the top-rated water-based experiences to include in your 2026 family itinerary.
1. Swimming in the 57-Meter Bali Beach Pool
At the heart of the Sanur coastline, the Bali Beach Hotel features a spacious main pool designed for both relaxation and family-friendly activities. The Bali Beach Pool stretches approximately 57 meters in length, offering plenty of room for swimming, play, or simply unwinding by the water. Its generous size makes it well-suited for families, ensuring there is enough space to enjoy the pool comfortably throughout the day.
This expansive footprint ensures that families have ample space to play, exercise, or simply lounge without ever feeling crowded. The pool is positioned to offer a sweeping view of the Indian Ocean, allowing parents to enjoy the majestic horizon while children splash in a safe, controlled environment.
To elevate the standard pool day, the resort introduces the Water Scooter by Sublue, available exclusively at the Bali Beach swimming pool. These high-performance electronic scooters allow children and adults to explore the water with effortless grace.
Whether your child wants to glide along the surface or dive safely beneath the ripples, these scooters are designed for all skill levels. The simple “grab on and glide” mechanism makes it one of the most exciting things to do in Bali with family, combining modern technology with the pure joy of swimming. It is a fantastic way to encourage physical activity while providing a “heroic” sense of adventure for younger guests.
2. Safe Splashing in the Calm Waters of Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach is universally regarded as the safest coastline for families in Bali due to its protective offshore coral reef. This natural barrier breaks the power of the Indian Ocean, resulting in a shallow, wave-free lagoon that remains calm throughout the day.
For parents with toddlers or young children, this provides a stress-free environment where kids can wade in the crystalline water, hunt for small seashells, or watch the colorful traditional jukung fishing boats bobbing in the distance. The shoreline here is a gentle introduction to the sea, making it a cornerstone of things to do in Bali with family.
The five-kilometer paved beachfront promenade that borders the sand is equally valuable for families. It offers a car-free path for morning strolls or cycling, making it easy to move between different beach sections.
Many families choose to set up for the day near the Bali Beach Hotel or The Meru Sanur, where the sand is meticulously maintained, and the resort facilities are within a minute’s walk. The calm energy of Sanur contrasts sharply with the heavy surf of the west coast, allowing families to prioritize connection and safety above all else.
3. Glass-Bottom Boat Tours for Ocean Exploration
For a family that wants to witness Bali’s vibrant marine life without snorkeling gear or diving certification, a glass-bottom boat tour from Sanur is an exceptional choice.
These traditional outriggers are fitted with clear viewing panels in the hull, allowing children to see the complex coral gardens and schools of tropical fish directly beneath their feet. It is a comfortable and educational way to explore the “unseen” world of the Sanur reef, making it one of the most accessible activities for families in Bali.
The boat captains are often local experts who can identify various coral and fish species, providing a live lesson in marine biology. Tours typically last between 45 and 60 minutes, which is the perfect duration for maintaining the attention span of younger travelers. After viewing the reef, many tours stop at a shallow sandbar where children can jump out and swim in chest-deep water.
4. Visiting the Turtle Conservation Center
A short but meaningful excursion to Serangan Island leads families to the Turtle Conservation and Education Center (TCEC). Officially opened on January 20, 2006, by the Governor of Bali, the TCEC was developed as a strategic response to the illegal trade in turtles.
Spanning 2.4 hectares, the center serves as a vital research, education, and tourist hub. It aims to provide the local community with sustainable alternatives to the turtle trade while protecting the rare species that return to Serangan Island. For those researching activities in Bali with family that have a lasting impact, this center is an essential stop.
The center focuses on four fundamental pillars: ending the turtle trade, providing turtles for religious rituals without sacrificing them, creating local employment, and serving as a watchdog over trade practices across the island. Children can see injured turtles in the recovery tanks and learn about the seven sea turtle species, three of which are raised at the center.
One of the most popular activities is to Adopt a Baby Turtle. For a small donation, your family can adopt a hatchling and personally release it back into the wild. This hands-on conservation effort provides children with a certificate of adoption and a profound sense of responsibility toward the environment.
5. Visiting the Exciting Waterbom Bali Waterpark
Located in the heart of Kuta, Waterbom Bali consistently ranks as the best waterpark in Asia and is a high-energy highlight among family-friendly things to do in Bali. The park is uniquely designed as a “boutique” waterpark, with 50 percent of its land preserved as a lush tropical garden.
This means that while children are racing down world-class slides like the Climax or the Boomerang, parents can relax in shaded cabanas surrounded by over 250 plant species. The park uses advanced saltwater chlorination systems, which are gentler on younger guests’ skin and eyes.
For the little ones, the “Funtastic” area offers a dedicated playground with water cannons, tipping buckets, and mini-slides. Older children and teenagers will appreciate the variety of high-speed slides that wind through the forest canopy. The park also features a “Lazy River” that meanders through the tropical landscaping, providing a cooling break between activities.
Cultural Discoveries and Creative Play
Bali is a land where art and spirituality are inseparable from daily life. Here are the best ways for families to engage with the island’s creative soul through immersive, expert-led activities.
6. Learning Traditional Balinese Dance at Niskala Kids Club
At the Bali Beach Hotel, cultural education is treated with the same prestige as luxury service. The Niskala Kids Club, open daily from 8.00 AM to 7.00 PM, offers a magical realm for children to explore the “unseen” traditions of the island. A highlight of the weekly schedule is the Balinese Dance Lesson held every Thursday afternoon.
Guided by professional dancers, children learn the intricate hand gestures (mudras), expressive eye movements, and rhythmic footwork that define this ancient art form. It is a graceful and disciplined activity that helps children understand the storytelling nature of Balinese heritage.
These lessons are more than just a performance; they are a bridge to understanding local mythology. The instructors explain the meaning behind each movement, often referencing the legends of the Ramayana or the protection of the Gods.
7. The Art of Canang Making With Local Flowers
The small, square baskets filled with vibrant petals and incense that dot the Balinese landscape are known as Canang Sari. Learning the Art of Canang Making is a meditative and beautiful activity for families. Every Wednesday at the resort, parents and children are invited to sit together and learn how to weave young coconut leaves into these sacred offerings.
The process involves selecting specific flower colors, each representing a different Hindu deity, and arranging them in a precise order. This attention to detail and color makes the workshop visually engaging for kids while providing a quiet moment of connection for parents.
8. Watching the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu
For a dramatic cultural spectacle, a trip to the southern cliffs of Uluwatu to watch the Kecak Fire Dance is an absolute necessity. Perched 70 meters above the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean, the ancient temple grounds provide a majestic backdrop for this sunset performance.
Unlike other dances that use a traditional orchestra, the Kecak is performed by a circle of 50 to 100 bare-chested men who provide the rhythmic soundtrack through a hypnotic chant. The story tells the epic tale of Prince Rama and Princess Sita, featuring the white monkey god Hanuman, who is a consistent favorite among children.
The performance culminates in a breathtaking fire scene, where a central character dances amidst flames to symbolize a battle of faith and strength. The energy of the crowd, the setting sun, and the flickering fire create a sensory experience that is truly monumental.
9. Kite Decorating and Flying by the Coast
Kite flying is a serious and deeply loved cultural tradition in Sanur, fueled by the consistent trade winds that blow across the eastern coast. Every Friday at the resort, children can participate in a Kite Making workshop, where they learn to build and decorate their own colorful flying creations. This hands-on activity celebrates the legendary wind culture of Sanur and allows young guests to express their imagination through bold designs and patterns.
After the decorating is complete, the resort team helps the children take their kites to the wide beachfront lawn or the sand to catch the breeze. Seeing a kite you built yourself take flight against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean is a moment of pure triumph for a child. This activity connects them to the local community, as you will often see hundreds of giant traditional kites (some over 100 meters long) flying nearby during the festival season.
10. Discovering Indonesian Heritage at Sarinah Store
A visit to the Sarinah Store, located within the Bali Beach Hotel complex, offers a refined cultural detour for families. Open from 8.00 AM to 8.00 PM, Sarinah is a legendary Indonesian retail institution that celebrates the rich heritage of national artistry. The store features a carefully curated collection of traditional and contemporary textiles, ranging from intricate Javanese batik to traditional Balinese woven cloths.
Exploring the store is like walking through a textile museum. Children can learn about the different patterns and weaving techniques used across the thousands of islands in the Indonesian archipelago. It is the ideal location to find meaningful, high-quality souvenirs that support local artists and preserve heritage. Whether you are searching for a unique piece of clothing or a handcrafted decorative item for your home, Sarinah provides a sophisticated shopping experience that uncovers the true spirit of Indonesia.
Nature Excursions and Animal Encounters
Bali’s lush interior and dedicated conservation parks offer families the chance to interact with a wide variety of tropical wildlife. Here are the best nature-focused activities for families in Bali.
11. Walking Through the Ubud Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud is a place where nature, ancient temples, and wildlife converge. This 12.5-hectare forest is home to over 1,000 long-tailed macaques that roam freely among the banyan trees and moss-covered stone statues. Walking through the forest boardwalks is a thrilling experience for children, as they can observe the monkeys in their natural social groups.
The sanctuary is also a site of significant spiritual importance, housing three 14th-century temples dedicated to various Hindu deities. While the monkeys are the main attraction, the forest itself is a beautiful example of Balinese conservation. We suggest reminding children to keep a respectful distance and avoid bringing food into the forest, as the macaques can be quite curious. Exploring the shaded paths and deep ravines of the monkey forest offers a cooling and mystical escape into the heart of Bali’s central uplands.
12. Cycling Along the 5km Coastal Promenade
The five-kilometer paved promenade that stretches along the Sanur coastline is arguably the best location in Bali for a family bicycle ride. The path is entirely flat, shaded by massive trees, and completely separated from motorized traffic.
Renting a bicycle for the family (about $5 USD per hour) is one of the most relaxing ways to spend time together in Bali. You can pedal at a leisurely pace from the north at Jalan Hang Tuah down to the southern mangroves near Mertasari, passing by quiet village shrines, beachfront cafes, and colorful fishing boats.
This activity allows families to see the diversity of Sanur at their own pace. You might stop for a fresh coconut water at a seaside stall or watch a local ceremony taking place on the sand. Many rental shops offer high-quality bicycles with secure child seats, so even the youngest family members can join the journey. A morning cycle to watch the golden sunrise over the lagoon is a restorative ritual that sets a peaceful tone for the entire day, embodying the unhurried spirit of the East Coast.
13. Interacting With Wildlife at Bali Bird Park
For a more curated nature experience, the Bali Bird Park offers a spectacular journey through the avian life of Indonesia and beyond. Located in Batubulan, the park is divided into regions that mimic the natural habitats of its residents, from the misty mountains of Papua to the wetlands of South America.
It is a highly educational destination that ranks among the top things to do in Bali with family. Children can get up close with over 1,000 birds from 250 species, including the rare Bali Starling and the prehistoric-looking Cassowary.
The park features regular interactive shows where birds perform flights of precision and intelligence. There are also opportunities for children to feed the birds under expert supervision, providing a tactile connection with nature. The walk-through aviaries allow for a truly immersive experience where birds fly freely around you.
The Bali Bird Park focuses on conservation and breeding programs, making it a responsible choice for families who want to learn about the importance of protecting global biodiversity during their holiday.
14. Exploring the Bali Safari and Marine Park
The Bali Safari and Marine Park provides a grand-scale adventure that combines wildlife observation with cultural entertainment. Guests travel through the open habitats in specially designed safari trams, seeing animals from Indonesia, India, and Africa roaming in expansive environments. It is a monumental experience that inspires wonder in guests of all ages.
A major highlight is the “Bali Agung” show, a world-class theatrical production held in the park’s massive auditorium. The show features a cast of 150 performers and live animals, telling the legendary story of a Balinese King and his Chinese Queen.
This blend of folklore and performance adds a unique cultural layer to the wildlife experience. The park also offers night safaris and the chance to dine at the Tsavo Lion Restaurant, where you can eat breakfast or dinner while lions prowl just outside the glass. It is a high-end, professionally managed destination that offers absolute excitement for children.
15. Discovering the Interactive Bali Zoo
Located in the Gianyar Regency, the Bali Zoo is designed for close-range animal encounters and interactive learning. Unlike traditional zoos, this facility emphasizes the relationship between people and animals, offering unique experiences like “Breakfast with Orangutans” or “Elephant Mud Fun.” These activities allow children to engage with wildlife in a respectful and guided manner, making it one of the most memorable things to do in Bali with family.
The “Jungle Splash” waterplay area within the zoo is a popular spot for children to cool off after visiting the animals. The zoo also features a petting area where younger kids can feed deer and rabbits. Every experience is supported by knowledgeable keepers who explain the animals’ behaviors and conservation needs.
Evening Entertainment and Family Dining
As the day cools, Bali’s evening scene offers a variety of ways to relax and nourish the body. Here are the best evening options to include in your 2026 family itinerary.
16. Enjoying Movie Time With Grilled Marshmallows at Niskala Kids Club
The evening schedule at the Bali Beach Hotel is designed to offer a gentle conclusion to a busy day. On various evenings, the Niskala Kids Club hosts a “Movie Time” for its young guests. This is not just a standard film screening; it is a cozy social event where children can gather on soft beanbags to watch family-friendly classics. To make the evening even more magical, the club often includes a grilled marshmallow session, where kids can enjoy a sweet treat while sharing stories of their day’s adventures.
This activity is a highlight for parents who want a quiet evening of dining or a restorative spa session next door at The Meru Sanur. It allows children to wind down in a safe, creative sanctuary under the care of professional staff.
17. Tasting Authentic Street Food at Sindhu Night Market
To experience the true culinary heartbeat of Sanur, a visit to the Sindhu Night Market is essential. Located near the north end of Jalan Danau Tamblingan, this market transforms every sunset into a vibrant food court that is clean, safe, and exceptionally welcoming for international families. Browsing the various stalls is one of the most sensory-rich things to do in Bali with family. You can watch local masters grill sate over coconut charcoal or flip savory martabak crepes with practiced ease.
We recommend sampling the Sate Ayam (chicken skewers with peanut sauce) or the Nasi Campur (mixed rice with various Balinese sides). A full meal here typically costs between $5 and $10 USD, making it a high-quality and affordable dining option.
The communal seating area allows your family to sit among local residents and fellow travelers, fostering a sense of community. It is an authentic and unpretentious environment that introduces children to the bold flavors and social rituals of Balinese life in a low-pressure setting.
18. Marveling at the Banyumala Twin Waterfall
For a nature excursion that feels like a hidden discovery, a trip to the Banyumala Twin Waterfall in the northern highlands is highly rewarding. While it requires a drive from the coast, the reward is one of the island’s most pristine and photogenic waterfalls.
Two powerful streams of water cascade down a lush, moss-covered cliff into a clear, safe swimming pool. It is a refreshing and majestic escape from the coastal heat, making it a top choice for things to do in Bali with families who enjoy the outdoors.
The hike down to the waterfall is well maintained, with wooden steps, making it accessible to older children. The area is surrounded by dense jungle, creating a cool, quiet atmosphere for a family picnic. Unlike some of the more crowded waterfalls near Ubud, Banyumala maintains a sense of sacred solitude.
Taking a dip in the cool mountain water and feeling the mist on your face is a spiritually grounding experience that reminds you of the island’s incredible natural diversity. It is a day trip that offers a perfect balance of mild adventure and profound beauty.
19. Hiking the Gentle Campuhan Ridge Walk
If your family enjoys walking and breathtaking green vistas, the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud is a mandatory activity. This easy trek follows a paved path along the top of a lush river valley, offering panoramic views of emerald-green hills and tropical foliage.
The path is relatively flat and wide, making it one of the most family-friendly hiking options on the island. It is an excellent way to see the “other side” of Bali’s geography, moving away from the coast and into the verdant interior.
The best time to visit the ridge is in the early morning (around 6:30 AM) or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and capture the best lighting for family photos. The walk typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes for a round trip, terminating at a quiet village with several cafes where you can enjoy a fresh fruit juice.
20. Relaxed All-Day Family Dining at Arunika
Concluding your day of exploration with a meal at Arunika Restaurant ensures the entire family is nourished in a sophisticated, tranquil setting. Arunika is the signature all-day dining venue of The Meru Sanur, uniquely set in the midst of an expansive pool within the main resort gardens.
The restaurant features live cooking stations with a diverse array of local and international cuisines, offering a relaxed environment where families can unwind and share their experiences of the day.
The culinary team at Arunika is dedicated to nurturing young explorers with nutrient-rich meals that prioritize well-being without compromising on flavor. The Kid’s Menu is particularly impressive, featuring wholesome options like the Chicken and Alphabet Soup or the Wagyu Beef Burger with premium beef and fries.
For a healthy main, the Baked Snapper Fish Fillet with steamed broccoli and mashed potato is a fantastic choice. Finishing with a Plant-Based Banana Split or a Vegan Chocolate Brownie ensures that every young diner ends the day on a sweet and healthy note. Dining at Arunika provides an ideal space for unhurried presence, making it a cornerstone of things to do in Bali with family during your stay.
Recommended Accommodations for a Family-Friendly Holiday in Bali
Choosing the right sanctuary is the most critical decision for a successful family retreat. The Bali Beach Hotel stands as an iconic monument to Indonesian heritage, recently revitalized to blend its 1966 roots with 2026 luxury. As a member of The Heritage Collection, the hotel serves as a cultural diplomat, providing a majestic setting where generations can connect through shared history and world-class amenities.
Our suite collection is engineered to provide an unparalleled balance of space, comfort, and breathtaking views. The Bali Beach Suite, situated on the 7th floor, is an elevated 175-square-meter retreat where elegance meets the stunning sunrise views of the coastline.
Thoughtfully designed with a separate living and dining area, this suite offers a refined sanctuary that goes beyond the ordinary. Every room in this historic tower offers ocean-facing views, so your family can wake up to the healing light of the Indian Ocean every morning.
The convenience of staying at the Bali Beach Hotel is unmatched for families. With a sprawling 57-meter pool for morning laps and direct access to the specialized kids’ activities next door at The Meru Sanur, maintaining your family’s routine is effortless. To make your journey even more seamless, we invite you to book our Family Getaways package.
This all-inclusive beachfront offer is designed for stays of three nights or more, providing every detail for a carefree holiday. The package includes a welcome signature drink, daily breakfast at Arunika for two adults and two children, and a specialized Clay Painting Activity for the little ones.
Each child is also treated to a 30-minute water scooter session, and the package features a family T-shirt Painting session where you can create a personalized souvenir of your Sanur journey together.
After a day of island exploration and discovering new things to do in Bali with family, return to the unparalleled convenience and warmth of The Bali Beach Hotel. With our spacious accommodations, the engaging daily schedule at Niskala Kids Club, and the variety of refined dining options, your family holiday becomes completely stress-free and full of time well spent. We look forward to providing your family with a sophisticated and restorative home on the sunrise coast.
Detailed Information: Bali Beach Hotel
- Address: Jalan Hang Tuah, Sanur Kaja, Denpasar Selatan, Bali 80227, Indonesia
- Phone Number: +62 361 201 2000
- Price Range: From approximately $250 to $650 USD per night, depending on suite type and season
- Google Review: 4.8 out of 5 (based on 2026 guest reviews)
Conclusion
Bali in 2026 remains a land of endless discovery for households, where the beauty of nature and the depth of tradition create a unique landscape for growth. By balancing high-energy water parks with quiet cultural rituals and wildlife encounters, you ensure your trip is as educational as it is enjoyable.
We hope this guide to the 20 best things to do in Bali with family provides you with the inspiration to plan a journey that honors the spirit of every family member. Let the sunrise coast of Sanur be your starting point for an extraordinary holiday on the Island of the Gods.
FAQs
What are the best free things to do in Bali with family?
Walking or cycling the 5-kilometer Sanur beachfront promenade at sunrise is a free, spiritually uplifting experience. Additionally, exploring the public beaches of the south, visiting the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud, and observing the daily placement of canang sari offerings throughout the village provide high-value cultural experiences at no cost.
Is the eastern coast safe for toddlers to swim?
Yes, the eastern coast of Sanur is considered the safest swimming area in Bali for young children. The offshore coral reef protects the shore from large waves and currents, creating a shallow, calm lagoon ideal for toddlers to splash safely.
Do resorts offer supervised kids’ clubs with daily schedules?
Yes, most major five-star resorts provide supervised kids’ clubs. The Niskala Kids Club at the Sanur complex is a prime example, offering a comprehensive daily schedule from 8.00 AM to 7.00 PM that includes painting, competitions, dance lessons, and cultural workshops, allowing parents to enjoy their own restorative time.
What is the best way to travel around the island with children?
For families, hiring a private car with a professional driver is the most efficient and comfortable method. This service typically costs between $40 and $60 USD for a 10-hour day, providing a safe, air-conditioned environment and the flexibility to adjust your itinerary based on the children’s energy levels.
Are there family-friendly dining options available near the beach?
Absolutely. Sanur is famous for its family-friendly dining scene. Arunika Restaurant offers a specialized, nutritious kids’ menu, while the Sindhu Night Market provides an authentic and casual street food experience that is very accessible for families. Most beachfront venues along the promenade also offer high chairs and kid-friendly meal options. Exploring these venues is a key part of the many things to do in Bali with family.
