Bali in 2026 is the ultimate playground for families who value both adventurous discovery and refined coastal relaxation. With upgraded infrastructure and world-class hospitality, the island offers an extraordinary variety of activities that satisfy curious young minds and discerning parents alike. To help you plan a seamless escape, we have curated the definitive guide to the best things to do in Bali with kids for the upcoming school holiday season.
Planning the Perfect Summer Season Family Vacation
The summer school holidays are the perfect time for a family getaway, and the eastern coastline offers a calm, welcoming environment away from the heavy traffic of the west coast. Sanur, the historical heart of Balinese tourism, has undergone a sophisticated transformation within the Sanur Special Economic Zone.
This district now serves as a high-tech hub for wellness and leisure, offering families unparalleled security and infrastructure on the island. By establishing your base on the sunrise coast, you position your family within easy reach of the airport, the cultural interior, and the most swimmable waters.
Water Adventures and Beachfront Fun
The coastal geography of the island provides a diverse array of aquatic experiences, from monumental resort pools to the calm, reef-protected lagoons of the eastern shore. Here are the top water-based things to do in Bali with kids for a safe and exhilarating holiday.
1. Swimming in the 57-Meter Bali Beach Pool
At the centre of Sanur’s heritage coastline, the Bali Beach Hotel offers a swimming experience of truly heroic proportions. The Bali Beach Pool is an expansive aquatic landmark that spans an impressive 57 meters in length and 37 meters in width.
This significant footprint makes it one of the largest swimming facilities on the entire island, providing a spacious environment where families can gather without the crowding often found in standard resort pools. The pool area is designed to offer sweeping panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, allowing parents to lounge in luxury while children enjoy the freedom of the clear, blue water.
For families seeking a touch of high-performance fun, the resort provides the Water Scooter by Sublue. These electronic scooters allow children and adults to glide effortlessly across the surface or explore just beneath the waves. The simple, intuitive controls make it easy for younger guests to participate in exciting water sports in a safe and controlled environment.
2. Building Sandcastles on the Calm Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach is widely regarded as the safest swimming beach in Bali for toddlers and young children. This is due to the long offshore coral reef, which acts as a natural barrier, protecting the shoreline from the heavy surf and strong currents on the west coast.
The sand here is golden and fine, perfect for building elaborate sandcastles or hunting for small seashells during low tide. The beachfront is bordered by a five-kilometre paved promenade, shaded by ancient banyan trees that provide natural cooling.
Families often set up their base near the historic tower of the Bali Beach Hotel, where the shoreline is meticulously maintained, and resort amenities are just steps away. Watching the traditional, colourful jukung fishing boats bob in the lagoon while your children play safely is the quintessential Sanur experience.
3. Enjoying the Slides at Waterbom Bali
For a day of high-energy excitement, a visit to Waterbom Bali in Kuta remains a highlight of any family itinerary. Consistently voted the best waterpark in Asia, Waterbom is designed as a “boutique” park where over 5 per cent of the land is preserved as lush tropical gardens. This unique layout means that while the children are racing down world-class slides like the Boomerang or the Climax, parents can relax in shaded cabanas surrounded by over 250 species of plants.
The park utilises advanced saltwater chlorination systems, which are significantly gentler on the skin and eyes of younger guests. For the little ones, the “Funtastic” area provides a dedicated playground with water cannons and mini-slides. Older children and teenagers will appreciate the variety of adrenaline-pumping rides that wind through the forest canopy.
4. Snorkelling in the Shallow Reefs
The calm lagoon of Sanur offers an excellent and safe introduction to snorkelling for children who are ready to explore the “unseen” world beneath the waves. Because the water is shallow and the current is minimal, it is a low-stress environment to learn how to use a mask and snorkel. Families can hire a traditional boat to take them just a few hundred meters offshore to the reef, where the biodiversity of the Indian Ocean becomes visible.
Children will be delighted to spot schools of colourful parrotfish and striped sergeant majors, and, occasionally, a slow-moving sea turtle. The water temperature remains a comfortable 28 degrees Celsius (approximately 82 degrees Fahrenheit), allowing for long periods of discovery without feeling chilled.
Many local operators in Sanur specialise in family snorkelling trips, providing high-quality life jackets and equipment for younger guests. This educational encounter with nature is one of the most rewarding things to do in Bali with kids.
5. Taking a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
For families wanting to witness Bali’s vibrant marine life without getting wet, a glass-bottom boat tour departing from Sanur is an exceptional choice.
These traditional outriggers are fitted with clear viewing panels, allowing children to see coral gardens and schools of tropical fish directly beneath their feet. It is a comfortable and educational way to explore the Sanur reef. Tours typically last 45-60 minutes, which is the perfect duration for younger travellers.
Creative Learning and Cultural Discovery
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. Engaging Daily Activities at Niskala Kids Club
At the Bali Beach Hotel, we believe that a child’s imagination is the most valuable asset of their holiday. The Niskala Kids Club provides a magical realm inspired by the Balinese “unseen” world, where every day is a new adventure. Open from 8.00 AM to 7.00 PM, the club offers a creative sanctuary where new friendships are made through an enchanting daily schedule. This focus on younger travellers ensures that your family holiday is completely stress-free and full of time well spent.
The weekly schedule is packed with engaging workshops that provide a deep dive into the best kids’ activities in Bali. On Mondays, children can explore their creativity with Canvas Painting or join a high-energy Pizza Ball Game.
Tuesdays often feature Key Chain Decoration and Paper Aeroplane Competitions, while Wednesdays focus on Apron Painting. These small-group sessions offer personalised attention and allow children to engage with Balinese aesthetics in a fun, accessible way. By providing a safe and inspired space, the Niskala Kids Club allows parents to enjoy their own restorative time at the heritage lounge or the spa.
7. The Art of Canang Making With Local Flowers
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.
This workshop teaches children about the Balinese philosophy of gratitude and the daily ritual of showing appreciation for the world. Each child leaves the session with their own handcrafted offering, representing a personal piece of island wisdom.
8. Visiting the Bali Safari and Marine Park
For a grand-scale adventure that combines wildlife observation with cultural entertainment, a day trip to the Bali Safari and Marine Park is an absolute necessity. Located in Gianyar, about a 30-minute drive from Sanur, the park allows families to travel through open habitats in specially designed safari trams. You can see animals from Indonesia, India, and Africa roaming in expansive, natural environments, inspiring 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.
9. Learning Traditional Balinese Dance
Balinese performing arts are among the most intricate and beautiful in the world, and the 2026 school holidays provide a great opportunity for children to learn the basics. At the Niskala Kids Club, professional instructors guide young guests through the graceful movements of traditional dance every Thursday. Children learn the specific hand gestures (mudras), expressive eye motions, and rhythmic footwork that define Balinese storytelling.
These lessons are more than just a dance class; they are an introduction to the island’s mythology. The instructors explain the meaning behind each movement, often referencing the legends of the Ramayana or the protection of the Gods.
It is a disciplined yet joyful activity that encourages poise and respect for diversity. Participating in such an authentic cultural ritual is one of the most rewarding things to experience in Bali with kids, ensuring they leave with a deep appreciation for the island’s living history.
10. Watching the Kecak Fire Dance
For a dramatic cultural spectacle, a trip to the southern cliffs of Uluwatu to watch the Kecak Fire Dance is an essential evening activity. Perched 70 meters above the Indian Ocean, the ancient temple grounds provide a majestic backdrop for this sunset performance. Unlike other dances that use an orchestra, the Kecak uses the human voice, with a circle of nearly 100 men providing the rhythmic soundtrack through a hypnotic chant.
The story tells the epic tale of Rama and Sita, featuring the white monkey god Hanuman, a favourite among children. The performance culminates in a breathtaking fire scene, where a central character dances amidst flames to symbolise a battle of faith and strength.
Nature Excursions and Animal Encounters
Bali’s lush interior and dedicated conservation centres offer families the chance to interact with a wide variety of tropical wildlife. Here are the best nature-based activities in Bali with kids for 2026.
11. Cycling Along the 5km Coastal Promenade
The five-kilometre paved promenade that hugs 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 motorised road traffic.
We offer high-quality bicycle rentals for our guests, including family bikes and kids’ bikes (approximate cost: $3-$5 USD per hour). Pedal at a leisurely pace from the north at Jalan Hang Tuah down to the southern mangroves, passing by quiet village shrines, beachfront cafes, and traditional fishing boats.
This activity allows families to see the diversity of Sanur at their own pace. You might stop for a fresh coconut at a seaside stall or watch a local ceremony taking place on the sand. The promenade is stroller-friendly and safe, making it a favourite for parents with young children.
12. 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 statues.
Walking along the forest boardwalks is a thrilling experience for children, providing a real-life “Jungle Book” atmosphere. The sanctuary also houses three 14th-century temples, offering a cooling and mystical escape into the heart of the central uplands.
13. Interacting With Wildlife at Bali Bird Park
For an educational nature experience, the Bali Bird Park in Batubulan offers a spectacular journey through avian life. The park features over 1,000 birds from 250 species, including the rare Bali Starling.
Children can enjoy interactive shows where birds perform precision flights, and there are guided opportunities to feed the birds. The walk-through aviaries allow for a truly immersive experience where birds fly freely around you, making it a responsible choice for families focused on biodiversity.
14. Visiting the Turtle Conservation Centre
A short excursion to Serangan Island leads families to the Turtle Conservation and Education Centre (TCEC). Officially opened on January 20, 2006, the TCEC was developed as a strategic response to the illegal trade in turtles.
Spanning 2.4 hectares, the centre serves as a vital research and education hub, helping the local community find sustainable alternatives to the turtle trade business while protecting the rare species that return to the island.
Children can learn about the seven sea turtle species, three of which are currently kept and raised at the centre. The facility houses injured animals and collects nests from busy tourist beaches to prevent eggs from being consumed or destroyed.
One of the most popular activities is to adopt a Baby Turtle. For a small donation (approximately $10 USD), your family can adopt a hatchling that has been raised at the centre for one month. Participating in this process allows children to contribute to nature-based conservation personally. Upon adoption and release, the organisation provides a certificate as a token of appreciation and a lasting memory of your family’s support.
15. Exploring the Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces, located just 20 minutes north of Ubud, provide one of the most iconic landscapes on the island. These terraced fields showcase the ancient Balinese Subak irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has sustained the island’s agriculture for centuries.
Walking through these emerald-green vistas provides a firsthand lesson in environmental harmony and the complexity of local farming techniques. It is a visually stunning addition to your list of things to do in Bali with kids.
Evening Entertainment and Family Bonding Time
As the tropical heat fades, Bali’s evening scene offers a variety of ways to relax and nourish the body. Here are the best evening options for families to enjoy together in 2026.
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 of exploration. 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.
The club’s focus on the Balinese “unseen” world ensures that even the evening entertainment has a touch of island mystery and imagination. It is an unhurried, thoughtful way to end the day, ensuring that every family member feels cared for and relaxed before bedtime.
17. Tasting Sweet Treats at Local Markets
For a true taste of local life, a visit to the Sindhu Night Market in Sanur is an essential evening excursion. As the sun sets, this market transforms into a vibrant, clean, safe, and exceptionally welcoming food court for international families.
Browsing the various stalls is one of the most sensory-rich things to do in Bali with kids. You can watch local masters grill sate over coconut charcoal or flip savoury martabak crepes with practised ease.
We recommend sampling the Martabak Manis, a thick Indonesian sweet pancake filled with chocolate, peanuts, and condensed milk. It is a rich and comforting treat that children will find irresistible. Another favourite is Pisang Goreng (fried bananas), deep-fried in a light batter until golden and crispy.
18. Flying Traditional Kites by the Ocean
Kite flying is a serious and deeply loved cultural tradition in Sanur, fueled by the consistent trade winds that blow across the eastern coast. In the late afternoons, the skies of Sanur become a theatre of colour as hundreds of kites take flight.
Many are giant, traditional designs shaped like fish (Bebean) or birds (Janggan), some reaching over 100 meters in length. Watching these monumental structures dance against the blue sky is one of the most exhilarating and free things to do in Bali with kids.
Your family can participate in this tradition by purchasing a small, handmade kite from the local vendors along the promenade. The resort staff can help the children find the best spot on the beach to launch their kites.
19. Gentle Hikes at the 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.
20. Movie Nights in Your Comfortable Family Suite
Sometimes, the most restorative part of a vacation is simply enjoying the luxury of your private sanctuary. The suites at the Bali Beach Hotel are designed to facilitate family connection in an environment of monumental elegance. After a long day of island discovery, retreating to your air-conditioned suite for a “Movie Night” is a perfect way to bond. You can utilise the 24-hour In-Room Dining service to order a family feast.
The Night Menu (available from 11.00 PM to 4.00 AM) features comforting options such as Sop Buntut (braised Australian oxtail soup) and the iconic Nasi Goreng, served with chicken satay and prawn crackers.
Accompanied by a selection from the premium in-suite beverage menu and a high-definition movie on the 65-inch Smart LED TV, this evening of intentional rest allows everyone to recharge. The spacious residential-style layout of our suites ensures that parents and children have ample room to relax together or in private, making your stay as comfortable as it is significant.
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 revitalised 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 location on the eastern coast of Sanur provides a strategic advantage, offering safe swimming waters and efficient access to every corner of the island.
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.
For those requiring the absolute highest standard of opulence, the Presidential Ocean View Suite spans a magnificent 380 square meters. This luxurious haven boasts a refined living room, an elegant dining area, and a dedicated work desk, ensuring that your stay is as productive as it is relaxing.
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 specialised kids’ activities at the Niskala Kids Club, 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 Family Getaways Package Includes:
- A welcome signature drink in the lobby upon arrival.
- Daily breakfast at Arunika Restaurant for two adults and two children.
- A specialised Clay Painting Activity for the children to explore their artistic side.
- Two slices of delicious cake are waiting in your room upon arrival.
- A plated selection of premium chocolate pralines.
- One dedicated Sand Play Set for beach time.
- One 30-minute water scooter session per child at the main pool.
- Unlimited access to the Niskala Kids Club.
- A shared family activity of T-shirt Painting for parents and children together.
After a day of island exploration and discovering new things to do in Bali with kids, 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 at Roso Restaurant or Arunika, 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
- Reference Price: 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 kids inspires you to plan a journey that honours 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 kids?
Walking or cycling the five-kilometre 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. Watching the giant kites in the Sanur sky is another spectacular and free activity for families.
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 and toddlers. The offshore coral reef protects the shore from large waves and strong currents, creating a shallow, calm lagoon ideal for toddlers to splash safely. It is the premier choice for families seeking peaceful activities in Bali with kids.
Do resorts offer supervised kids’ clubs with daily schedules?
Yes, most major five-star resorts offer supervised kids’ clubs staffed by professionals. 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 with total peace of mind.
What is the best way to travel around the island with young children?
For families, hiring a private car with a professional driver is the most efficient and comfortable way to travel. 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 by the beach?
Absolutely. Sanur is famous for its family-friendly dining scene. Arunika Restaurant offers a specialised, nutritious kids’ menu, while the Sindhu Night Market provides an authentic, 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, ensuring that every meal is a joy for every generation.
