Bali—the island of the gods, where lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches come together in a symphony of beauty. When planning a family vacation to Bali, the overwhelming choice of activities can be both exciting and daunting. As a parent who has journeyed through this magical island with my kids in tow, I can assure you it’s a place that welcomes families with open arms. Let’s dive into some fantastic family friendly activities for a Bali vacation that will keep everyone smiling!
1. Explore the Waterbom Bali Water Park
When my family and I first arrived in Bali, we were eager to dive into some fun activities, and Waterbom Bali was at the top of our list. This water park is a highlight for many visitors, boasting thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.
Tip: Arrive early to snag a good spot on the sun loungers and allow your kids enough time to enjoy the rides—my children absolutely loved the Boomerang slide! Take it from a parent, nothing sparks laughter like watching your little ones glide down a water slide and splash into the pool.
Practical Advice:
– Buy tickets online: You can save time and often money by purchasing tickets ahead of time.
– Bring sunscreen: The Balinese sun can be intense, and you’ll want to keep your family protected while they have a blast.
2. Visit Bali Safari & Marine Park
If your kids are like mine, they’ll be thrilled by the idea of seeing exotic animals up close! Bali Safari & Marine Park offers an amazing chance to get acquainted with wildlife, with plenty of shows and activities throughout the day.
As we rode on the safari bus, my kids’ eyes widened as we passed elephants, tigers, and zebras. The highlight of our visit was the elephant ride, which left us with unforgettable memories and stunning photos to cherish.
Practical Advice:
– Plan your visit around the animal shows: Check the daily schedule when you arrive so you don’t miss performances like the animal feeding or the elephant show.
– Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so it’s best to be prepared.
3. Discover Ubud’s Monkey Forest
For families seeking a mix of adventure and cultural exploration, the Ubud Monkey Forest is not to be missed. My family and I spent an afternoon wandering through the forest, sharing giggles as cheeky monkeys swung from branches overhead. Just a word of caution—these playful primates are curious and might attempt to steal your hat or sunglasses!
The tranquil paths, magnificent temples, and lush greenery make this a picturesque spot. We marveled at the ancient trees while letting the kids run free.
Practical Advice:
– Be mindful of your belongings: Keep bags zipped shut and avoid holding food visibly; the monkeys are quite bold.
– Visit early or late: To avoid the crowds and make the experience more enjoyable, try to go during off-peak hours.
4. Enjoy a Bali Cooking Class
If your family enjoys culinary adventures, a cooking class in Bali is a unique experience that everyone will love. We attended a class in a beautiful kitchen overlooking rice paddies. The warm and welcoming locals taught us how to prepare traditional Balinese dishes.
Not only did we learn to make delicious food, but we also had fun bonding as a family, chopping vegetables and laughing over our culinary mishaps. The joy of sharing a meal that we made together was simply priceless!
Practical Advice:
– Choose a family-friendly class: Look for classes that cater specifically to families, ensuring they will be patient and engaging with kids.
– Involve everyone: Let every family member take on a role, whether chopping, stirring, or plating—it’s all part of the fun!
5. Beach Time at Sanur Beach
After the thrill of adventure, there’s nothing like some relaxation at the beach. Sanur Beach is ideal for families, offering calm waters perfect for swimming and a wide stretch of shoreline for building sandcastles. During our visit, my kids enjoyed splashing in the shallow water and collecting seashells along the shore.
The best part? Sanur also has a beautiful promenade lined with cafes and shops, so while the kids play, parents can enjoy a refreshing drink.
Practical Advice:
– Visit during low tide: This allows for extensive exploring of the tidal pools and more space for sand play.
– Pack beach essentials: Don’t forget towels, snacks, and beach toys—having these on hand can make the day run smoother.
6. Go on an Eco-Friendly Tour
For families that like to blend learning with fun, consider joining an eco-friendly tour like the Bali Eco Cycling. This experience takes you through lush landscapes, rice fields, and local villages while educating your family about Balinese culture and nature.
On our tour, we cycled through idyllic paths, stopped for traditional refreshments, and learned first-hand about the Balinese way of life. The kids loved riding down hills, and I appreciated the chance to teach them about caring for our planet.
Practical Advice:
– Select the right tour for kids: Make sure to choose one that caters to families, and verify the difficulty level of the cycling.
– Bring water bottles: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during active outings.
Conclusion
A family vacation in Bali can be an adventure filled with laughter, discovery, and unforgettable moments. From thrilling water parks to serene beaches, the island offers a wealth of experiences suitable for both kids and adults alike. So pack your bags, grab the sun hats, and get ready for a holiday that you’ll all cherish for years to come!Remember, the best part about traveling as a family is the memories you create together. Here’s to fun-filled days in Bali, where every adventure strengthens your family bonds! Happy travels!
