Tanah Lot, the iconic sea temple perched on a rock formation off the coast of Bali, is a destination that promises breathtaking scenery and a deep dive into Balinese culture. Having visited Tanah Lot several times, I’ve gathered plenty of tips and essential items that can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. Let’s explore what to bring for an unforgettable visit!
1. Comfortable Footwear
Imagine wandering along the rocky paths leading to the temple, only to be thwarted by uncomfortable shoes. On my first trip, I wore sandals that seemed perfect for beach weather, but they didn’t provide the support I needed. By the end of the day, my feet were sore!
Tip: Pack a pair of comfortable, sturdy sandals or shoes that you can wear all day. Water-resistant footwear can be beneficial, especially if you plan to stroll along the beach or get your feet wet while exploring the tide pools.
2. Sunscreen
Bali is a tropical paradise and the sun can be quite intense, especially in the middle of the day. During my visit, I forgot to apply sunscreen and ended up with an unexpected sunburn. Not exactly the souvenir I wanted to bring back!
Tip: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every couple of hours. Don’t forget to put some on the tops of your ears and the back of your neck—areas often overlooked but prone to sunburn.
3. A Hat and Sunglasses
Alongside sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are your best friends at Tanah Lot. I learned this the hard way. As I stood marveling at the view, the sun beat down mercilessly on my head. A hat would have shielded me from the scorching rays and kept me cooler. Plus, sunglasses add an extra level of protection for your eyes.
Tip: Opt for a lightweight, breathable hat and polarized sunglasses that provide UV protection. You’ll look stylish while keeping sunburn at bay!
4. A Lightweight Backpack
You’re going to want to carry a few essentials with you without feeling weighed down. On my last visit, I lugged around a bulky tote, and by the time I reached the temple, I was already fatigued. A lightweight backpack allows for easy access to your belongings while keeping your hands free for taking selfies or holding a refreshing drink.
Tip: Choose a small, packable backpack that can hold your essentials—water bottle, snacks, camera, and a light jacket for when the sun sets and temperatures dip.
5. A Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when you’re exploring under the Bali sun. I made the mistake of not bringing a water bottle and ended up spending way too much on bottled water. Not only was it expensive, but it also contributed to plastic waste.
Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at various stations or cafes around Tanah Lot. Some restaurants even offer free water refills for customers. Hydration is key!
6. Snacks
Let’s be real: exploring can work up an appetite! I remember the time I spent hours wandering around and suddenly realized I was famished. After rounding up some friends, we found ourselves at a small café with limited options.
Tip: Pack some snacks like nuts, energy bars, or local treats like sticky rice cakes. They’re easy to carry and are the perfect fuel for your adventures.
7. Cash
While some places accept card payments, having cash on hand is essential in many parts of Bali, including Tanah Lot. I once found myself at a market stall ready to make a purchase, only to realize I had left my cash back at the hotel. It was a bit embarrassing to walk away empty-handed.
Tip: Bring sufficient cash for entrance fees, snacks, souvenirs, and small purchases. It’s always good to have some local currency for those hidden gems you stumble upon!
8. A Camera (or Smartphone)
You won’t want to miss the opportunity to capture the stunning sunset views at Tanah Lot. On my last visit, I realized my battery was dead, and I had to rely on my phone’s poor camera quality. It’s safe to say I missed out on some phenomenal shots!
Tip: Make sure your camera or smartphone is charged and has enough storage available for all those Instagram-worthy moments. Bring a power bank with you just in case!
9. A Light Jacket or Shawl
As breathtaking as the sunsets at Tanah Lot are, the temperatures can drop once the sun dips below the horizon. I’ll never forget shivering in the evening breeze during my first visit without a light layer.
Tip: Pack a light jacket or shawl that’s easy to carry around. It’s perfect for staying warm while you enjoy the views and it can double as a blanket if you decide to sit on the grass.
10. A Sense of Adventure
Last, but definitely not least, bring your sense of adventure! Tanah Lot is not just about the views; it’s about immersing yourself in the culture, meeting locals, and perhaps bartering at the market stalls. Embrace the experience and soak in the atmosphere.Tip: Don’t be afraid to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. Venture to lesser-known areas around the temple, chat with locals, and try your hand at sampling local cuisines. You never know what hidden gems you might find!—Visiting Tanah Lot is a magical experience that’s etched in my memory as one of my favorite adventures in Bali. Having the right essentials can elevate your visit and ensure you can focus on creating lasting memories. So, pack wisely and enjoy the beauty and culture of this enchanting destination! Happy travels!
