Resort's View - Aerial

Planning Your Trip

rcBreakText rcBreakWhiteText

From sun-drenched tropical beaches and myriad ornate Balinese temples to lavish restaurants and bars and streets lined with boutiques and galleries, there’s so much to do during your stay on the Island of the Gods. Here are some tips on what to bring, reserve, and do, so you can make the most of your time in Bali.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
What to Pack

If visiting the Monkey Forest, bring a satchel to keep small belongings like sunglasses or jewelry stowed away — the monkeys are known to snatch visitors’ accessories.

Beach Vacation

Bali's beaches and resorts are havens for sun worshippers. Bring along a few essentials for a perfect day at the beach.

  • Be sure to bring appropriate sunscreen and after-sun moisturizers to keep your skin protected from the sun’s strong rays.

  • Swimwear, pool wraps, beach shoes, sandals, sunglasses and sun hats are all essential. Don’t forget something light to cover up with when you need a sun break.

  • For kids, extra protection is recommended in the form of ultra-high UV protection creams and swimsuits with a high UV protection factor.
Cultural Considerations

Bali has a unique and welcoming culture. Experience it firsthand with unique activities like Soul Purification rituals on the beach, traditional dance performances and temple visits.

  • For day trips, casual clothes like shorts and t-shirts are typically welcome, but the location and activity will dictate what is acceptable, so bring a few more modest options as well.

  • For on-site cultural activities the organizer will ensure you have the appropriate attire, so dress in comfortable clothes that can be layered upon.

  • Most of the larger temples provide a sarong and sash for visitors to use, but it is considerate to dress modestly if you know you'll be visiting a temple.
Resort Essentials

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali is a 5-star luxury beachside resort that is both family friendly and ideal for romantic getaways, weddings and honeymoons. It offers a combination of open spaces, tropical landscape and stunning architecture.

  • The general dress code for lounging around the resort is casual, so pack your shorts, light shirts and breezy dresses.

  • Some of the onsite restaurants have a relaxed dress code, while for others smart casual or resort chic wear is appropriate. Be sure to bring a few elevated options for the fine dining experiences.

  • Swimwear is not permitted in our restaurants, so bring along a stylish cover-up to go seamlessly from the beach to lunch al fresco.
Private Dining on the Beach
Private Dining on the Beach
What to Reserve

A family friendly resort with a beautiful beachfront setting, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, is home to some of the island’s most impressive dining and one of Bali’s most luxurious spas, making it a perfect home base for exploring the very best the island has to offer. Here’s what to book in advance so you don’t miss out.

Reserve an indulgent spa treatment. Bali is renowned for its world-class spas and here at our beachfront resort, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bali offers signature services inspired by the ocean and its treasures. Available treatments include massage, body wraps, soaking rituals, facials, romantic couple's treatments, and parent and child sessions. Be sure to add on a hydro treatment, which utilizes the power of water for wellness and relaxation.

Bali has so many options for dining out, whether you’re enjoying a romantic meal by the beach, a festive fete on the hill with spectacular views, or a unique meal overlooking the rice fields. For a truly memorable experience, reserve a private romantic dinner for two by the Indian Ocean at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. Dine under a tropical night sky filled with stars, accompanied by a gentle breeze and sounds of the ocean.

Reserve your child’s spot at Ritz Kids, our fun and educational kids club. With activities suitable for toddlers up to young teens, a dedicated kids pool, outdoor play area and programs that include sea turtle preservation, making kites, cooking with the resort's chef, learning Balinese crafts, to night safaris in your room, your kids can have a blast while playing and learning about the world around them. It’s just one of the things that makes The Ritz-Carlton, Bali a great choice for family vacations.

With so much to see in Bali, day trip options are seemingly endless. Whether you’re looking for something family friendly, romantic or cultural and educational, the concierge at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali will be happy to help you plan the perfect getaway. One of the most popular destinations is the renowned Uluwatu Temple. Just a short drive away, it’s a stunning sight that also plays host to the Balinese Kecak Dance at sundown every day.

A man and woman standing on a wooden balcony overlooking lush greenery and the ocean
A man and woman standing on a wooden balcony overlooking lush greenery and the ocean
Itineraries

Bali is synonymous with natural beauty, from lush jungles to crashing waves to pristine beaches. Cultural wonders abound with temples dotting the countryside and museums clustered in the cities. Traditional agricultural innovations like rice terraces continue to be actively used, making visits to them both instructive and scenic. The cuisine wows with native Balinese and Indonesian cooking mixed with unlikely additions from all over the world (pizza, for example). While you can spend your time in Bali being actively adventurous, don’t forget to make time for simply being in your surroundings to absorb their splendor.

Morning

River Rafting. Go for bold adventure by rafting on the Ayung River, where you’ll take in the gorgeous scenery, discover secluded waterfalls and swim in the pristine water. Your professional guide will help you navigate class II and III rapids, but keep in mind that this will be easier and safer with kids who are confident swimmers. Your outing will take about three hours total on the water. 

Midday

Sculptures in the Wild. Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is the ultimate in child-friendly art viewing with large-scale sculptures scattered throughout an expansive setting. There are dance and theater performances on-site hourly, so check the schedule when you arrive to see what’s on that day. 

Afternoon

Pool Time. Relax after an active day with time at one of the pools at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. You can head for the kids’ pool with water slides or for the main pool with its panoramic view of the ocean and umbrellas for shade. Order a frosty beverage and wait for the hourly poolside service of refreshments. 

Evening

The Beach Grill. Enjoy food as good as the view at The Beach Grill. Enjoy the relaxed ambience of the restaurant as you overlook the Indian Ocean and enjoy freshly caught seafood and grilled specialties. And make sure to order a glass of the signature house sangria, available in white or red versions.  

Morning

Mount Batur. While pre-sunrise hikes are popular on this tall peak, we suggest letting the kids sleep a full night and starting up in the early morning. Take the walk slowly with breaks and snacks. At the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views. There is also a good stopping point most of the way up that avoids the final sandy walk to the peak, which might be more manageable with kids. And remember, it’s a lot easier on the way back down! It is a two hour-plus drive each way, but you’ll see a tremendous amount of the countryside as a bonus to the trip.

Afternoon

Photo Shoot. It’s always a challenge to get a great family photo on vacation, but what better time is there to get that holiday card shot? Take advantage of a complimentary guest photo shoot at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, and get hard or digital copies of photographs of everyone or just the kids at the resort.

Evening

Pirate’s Bay Bali. A dinner worth arriving early for awaits at Pirate’s Bay. Let your children’s imaginations run wild as they climb treehouses, dress up like pirates, and generally maraud around giant wooden boats at this pirate-themed restaurant. Kids can participate in an hourlong treasure hunt on the beach to find the Great Pirate Captain’s treasure. 

Morning

Breakfast at Senses. Get off on the right foot with a filling breakfast at Senses. The little ones can find favorites like eggs and Belgian waffles, and adults can pick from healthy or indulgent options. Or if you are ready to embrace your time in Bali fully, try a regional specialty like chicken rice congee. 

MIdday

Camel Safari. Take in the stunning white-sand beaches along the southern coastline of Nusa Dua from your perch on top of a camel! The Bali Camel Safari is the only one on the island, and the steady pace of the animals makes it fun for all ages. Travel guides will accompany you on your beach tour, even holding the reins of the camels to make sure you’re moving at a safe pace. Don’t forget to bring your camera and sunblock. 

Afternoon

Sea Masters. Do you have a little mermaid or a future fisherman in your family? Ritz Kids allows your child to channel her inner mermaid with a swimsuit complete with tail for her pool time with a fresh coconut drink. The Little Fisherman program introduces children into the day in the life of a fisherman on the Sawangan Beach on the Indian Ocean. The fishermen will share their equipment, teaching the little ones how to fish the traditional way.

Spa Time. While the kids are off learning to fish or splashing around in the pool, you can make your way to the spa for one of the nine unique treatment rooms or four treatment villas, if you prefer a combined couple’s treatment. 

Evening

Night Safari. You’ve already ridden the camels, and now your children can feel as if they are continuing on safari with this special Ritz Kids package. They are set up in the room with a tent, flashlight, compass, lion toy and more to create the feeling of a full-blown campout. While is this aimed at kids 4–8 years old, children younger than 4 can participate and will get their own special takeaways. 

Morning

Cooking Class. Experience a different part of Bali by driving a little over an hour to Ubud. The whole family can learn more about Bali’s culinary history and present state in Ketut’s Bali Cooking Class. Get to Ubud early to start with a market tour, and then take your fresh finds back to the classroom to start chopping, sautéing and more. Finish your class by eating what you’ve made! 

Midday

Monkey Forest. Children of all ages will be transported by the Monkey Forest, where 600 monkeys roam free in over 100 species of trees. You can feed the monkeys bananas that you purchase on-site, but be careful not to bring other snacks into the park as they might try to find them on you. Walk through the 25 acres of conservation land for a fully immersive experience.  

Afternoon

Gelato Stop. Time to refuel after walking in the Monkey Forest. Gaya Gelato offers creamy, handmade flavors that are sophisticated enough for adults (Ginger Stracciatella) but delicious enough for all ages (Peanut Crunch). Take your gelato with you as you walk through the Ubud Market, picking up souvenirs from your time in Bali.  

Evening

Dinner in Ubud. Bridges Bali gets its name from its distinctive spot over the gently flowing Wos River. While you enjoy the view from the seven-story restaurant and the sophisticated approach to updated Balinese cooking, your kids can chow down on pasta and cheesecake from the flexible menu. Don’t miss the award-winning wine list as you order for yourself. 

Morning

Breakfast With Orangutans. With rambunctious kids around, you might feel like you are often having breakfast with monkeys, but the Bali Zoo offers a very real version of the experience. Eat your pancakes and drink Balinese coffee while surrounded by orangutans and other animals. Head out to explore the zoo itself after you’re done with your meal. 

Afternoon

Bali Safari & Marine Park. Get even closer to the animal action with a guided safari. Once you’re on the bus, you’ll drive through the habitats of Indonesia, Africa and India. Check the schedule for the regular shows like white tiger feeding and elephant patrol. If you bring a bathing suit and a change of clothes, you can also cool off in the on-site waterpark (you’ll find the pool café there as well).  

Evening

Dinner at Breezes. End your stay with dinner at Breezes, the tapas bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. Enjoy one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails while taking in the panoramic view of the Indian Ocean over the beach. Little ones will be delighted with spaghetti al pomodoro and cheeseburgers, while you tuck into the Iberian sampler. 

Morning

Sun Salutation. Start your morning off with one of the daily yoga classes offered to guests at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. Yoga and meditation are important components to the lifestyle of Bali, and you’ll connect to the omnipresence of ceremony in the culture as you work through your own yoga practice. 

Midday

Pura Geger. This quiet and ancient temple is only open to worshippers, but the beautiful carved architecture of the building exteriors and its prominent place on the headland above the white sands of Geger Beach still make it worth a visit. 

Water Blow. Imagine being surrounded by water in a 240-degree view as it rushes up from the ocean, breaking over the tops of cliffs. The dramatic views (and splashing) of the ocean waves up to Water Blow make this an adventurous stop, especially for those bringing along a waterproof camera to capture the spectacular crashing of the waves. 

Afternoon

Eat, Dring, Rest. Sea Circus brings a dash of wit and a splash of high style to Seminyak, the chic Southern city. Order multiple small plates to share, go healthy with a bowl or dig into the options on the taco bar menu.

Shopping in Seminyak. Seminyak has a mix of designer boutiques and local artisanal shops, so you can choose the perfect mementos from the trip. Get richly colored garments at Paul Ropp, on-trend accessories at Le Petit Cartel or delicate lace from Uluwatu. If you’re looking for something more substantial to remember the trip by, stop into John Hardy, who produces his fine jewelry line near Ubud.

Evening

Romantic Dinner. Watch the sun set over the open lounge at Métis, as you sip cocktails before settling into a multi-course dinner. For a decadently delicious dinner, order from the foie gras menu, including specialties like the Trilogy of Foie Gras. 

Morning

Take a Swim. The pool at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali faces the ocean, so you can watch the sun rise over the deep turquoise water while you splash around. Start your morning with tranquil laps or just soaking in the water, and the atmosphere, together. 

Midday

Uluwatu Temple. Pura Luhur Uluwatu is perched high above the sea on a 250-foot cliff. Considered to be one of six temples that make up Bali’s spiritual pillars, this temple is equally renowned for its spectacular view as it is for its sacred qualities. Stay at the temple later in the day and watch the sun set over the ocean behind, or visit midday for the cooling breezes that come off the water through the temple complex. Enter through a small forest filled with hundreds of monkeys, which are believed to be the protectors of the temple itself.

Afternoon

Surf Spot. Green Bowl beach is notable for the cliffs protecting the secluded beach and the quality of the waves, attracting a loyal surfer community. If you don’t want to do the 300-plus steps down to the beach (and back up), settle in at a warun at the top for a cool drink and gorgeous views. 

Evening

Dinner on the Sand. Dinner for two in a secluded setting by the beach — what could be more romantic? With dedicated service, a bouquet of red roses and a bottle of wine from The Ritz-Carlton, Bali cellar, the resort sets up a perfect evening for you, complete with a specially designed menu. Choose from delicacies like Wagyu steak, slow-cooked salmon or lobster linguine along with a champagne toast to your wonderful weekend in Bali.