From sunrise hikes and cliffside massages to hidden beaches and fine dining under the stars, our 13-day Bali honeymoon was nothing short of magical. We split our time between Uluwatu, Ubud, Sanur, and Nusa Penida—each offering its own distinct flavor of beauty, culture, and adventure. Along the way, we uncovered luxury resorts, off-the-beaten-path gems, and a few unforgettable surprises—starting with a layover in Dubai and ending with stargazing under the Milky Way during a blackout on Nusa Penida. Here’s a day-by-day recap of our Bali vacation, including the best places to go in Bali, our favorite Bali hotels and resorts, and plenty of travel tips from our journey.
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Getting There: From Chicago to Bali, With a Lavish Dubai Layover
Journey Through Dubai
Our Bali vacation kicked off with a long but exciting journey that turned travel time into part of the adventure. We started with a 13-hour flight from Chicago to Dubai, arriving just after 7:00 PM local time. With an 8-hour layover, we had just enough time to get a small taste of the city.
Customs in Dubai was surprisingly efficient, but travelers should be aware that traffic into the city can be unpredictable. After clearing immigration, we headed straight to the Dubai Mall. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and take in some iconic sights. We caught the famous fountain show and had a blast with one of the Turkish ice cream vendors who put on a playful performance before finally handing over the cone.
Later that evening, we set out for our reservation at At.Mosphere Lounge on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, but not before briefly getting lost in the maze of Dubai Mall (and its parking garages) in the process. Fortunately, we eventually found our way to the restaurant and settled in for small plates and cocktails. The panoramic city views from one of the world’s tallest buildings were breathtaking, and the ambiance was perfect for a honeymoon kickoff.
Navigation in Dubai can be a bit tricky if you’re not prepared, so we recommend mapping everything out in advance to avoid getting turned around like we did. Also, the heat was intense (even at 10 PM), so pack something light but respectful (a shawl came in handy). After dinner, we returned to the airport and made use of a Priority Pass lounge to relax before our 3 AM flight to Bali.
Touchdown in Paradise
The final leg of the trip was a 9-hour overnight flight that arrived in Bali just before 5:00 PM. We easily ordered a Grab (Bali’s Uber equivalent) from the Bali Airport and made our way to the stunning Alila Villas Uluwatu. This is one of the best hotels in Bali and was the perfect place to start our Bali island vacation.
Our villa was over 3,000 square feet, complete with a private infinity pool and shaded cabana. Floor-to-ceiling windows opened to the pool, blurring the line between indoors and out. The staff warned us that with monkeys roaming the grounds, it’s essential to close everything up before heading out.
That evening, we dined at Warung, the resort’s Indonesian restaurant. We ordered the satay and a full sambal flight. This was our first true taste of Bali travel and the local flavors that would define our trip.
Day 1: Poolside Bliss and Beachfront Views
We eased into our first full day in Bali with a slow, relaxing morning, as we recovered from our jet lag. Breakfast at CIRE, the hotel’s elegant ocean-view restaurant, was the perfect start. There, we enjoyed fresh fruit, strong Balinese coffee, and a panoramic view of the water.
After breakfast, we wandered around the resort to soak in the scenery. Alila’s cliffside setting offered breathtaking views, and we spotted baby monkeys playing among the trees. Plumeria blossoms lined the paths, quickly becoming Ally’s new favorite flower. Back at our villa, we spent the late morning lounging by our private pool. It felt like our own private retreat.
In the afternoon, we headed to Sundays Beach Club, where we had a VIP Cabana reserved. A scenic cable car took us down the cliffside to the white sand beach below. The rest of the day was spent sipping cocktails and dining with our toes in the sand, the warm Indian Ocean just steps away.
That night, we returned to Alila Villas for cocktails and shisha at the resort’s cozy Sunset Cabana Bar. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we toasted the start of our Bali vacation. We ended the evening with dinner at CIRE, capping off a day that was equal parts serene and spectacular.
Day 2: Cliffside Massages and Uluwatu Adventures
Day two began with one of the most memorable spa experiences of our lives. We headed to Alila’s private Cliff-Edge Spa Cabana, where we enjoyed a traditional Balinese massage. With panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the sound of waves crashing below, it was the perfect way to begin a day in paradise.
After our morning of relaxation, we headed to Suka Espresso for brunch. Their iced coffee hit the spot, and the vibrant pitaya bowls were as delicious as they were photogenic. From there, we walked to Padang Padang Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Uluwatu. A quick tip: wear comfortable shoes, as many beaches in Uluwatu, including this one, require a bit of a trek down stairs and rocky paths.
Next, we made our way to Single Fin Uluwatu, a laid-back cliffside bar with incredible views of the surf below. We grabbed a drink and a snack and watched the surfers carving waves in the afternoon sun.
As sunset approached, we visited the iconic Uluwatu Temple. Perched high above the sea, the temple offered a dramatic setting for the famous Kecak Fire Dance. The performance was mesmerizing, with rhythmic chanting, vibrant costumes, and a fiery orange sky in the background. But be warned—the monkeys at the temple are bold. We saw one snatch a pair of sunglasses, only giving them back in exchange for a snack!
We ended the night with a late dinner at The Cave at The Edge Hotel. This unique fine dining experience features a tasting menu set inside a natural limestone cave. Between courses, colorful light shows illuminated the cave walls, adding a magical touch to an unforgettable meal.
Day 3: Hidden Beaches and Sunset Cocktails
We kicked off day three with breakfast at Gooseberry Restaurant, a trendy café and swimwear boutique. The açaí bowls and avocado toast were fresh and flavorful, and Ally couldn’t resist doing a little shopping—leaving with a new swimsuit from their in-house brand.
Fueled up for the day, we made our way to Nunggalan Beach. The hike down was hot and a bit strenuous, so definitely bring water and wear good shoes. However, the reward was a pristine, nearly empty beach where a few locals were splashing in the waves. The graffiti-covered shipwreck on the shore added a surreal, cinematic touch to the landscape.
After the sweaty hike back up, we headed to Suluban Beach—a tucked-away cove known for its narrow rock passages and as a favorite surf entry point. Afterwards, we returned to the hotel for a late lunch at Warung. The fried rice was delicious, but the standout dish was the Indonesian-style green beans. We spent the afternoon swimming in the resort’s main infinity pool and soaking in the panoramic views of the Bali coastline, feeling completely spoiled.
As golden hour approached, we ventured out to Ayana’s iconic Rock Bar for sunset cocktails. The passion fruit margarita was a standout, and the vibe was made even better by a saxophone player strolling the boardwalk.
Finally, we ended the day at Cuca, a playful and stylish restaurant tucked into a lush garden. While we waited for our table, they brought us cocktails in a tree-covered sitting area lit with twinkling lights. The meal itself was creative and fun, with a few cheeky touches for our honeymoon, including a table bell labeled “Ring for Kisses” and a Polaroid photo of us that they gave as a keepsake to end the night on a sweet (and slightly cheesy) note.
Day 4: Temples, Terraces, and Traffic Jams
On Day 4, we hired a private driver to take us on a day trip from Uluwatu to our next stop in Ubud. We planned an early pickup at 7:00 AM to beat the worst of Bali’s infamous traffic. Our first stop was Taman Ayun Temple, a peaceful garden temple surrounded by water and tropical greenery.
Next, we made our way to Pura Luhur Batukaru, a serene and less-visited temple nestled on the slopes of Mount Batukaru. Due to a Hindu celebration, we had to ride up the final stretch of road in shared vans with the locals who were heading to the temple to pray. While getting there was an interesting experience, it was a unique privilege to witness the religious ceremonies.
From there, we continued to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, one of the most beautiful and expansive UNESCO World Heritage sites in Bali. We took a peaceful walk through the rice fields and picked up a few jajan pasar, or traditional market snacks. We particularly enjoyed the “elephant ears”, bowl-shaped rice treats flavored with chocolate and cream.
Afterwards, we stopped for lunch at a nearby restaurant overlooking the terraces, enjoying the view and some much-needed shade. In the afternoon, we visited Leke Leke Waterfall. The short hike through the jungle ended in a picturesque waterfall tucked between mossy cliffs. This stop provided a refreshing and scenic end to the sightseeing portion of the day.
We then made our way to Alila Ubud, our new hotel for the middle portion of the trip. Upon arrival, we were greeted with lemongrass iced tea and chilled towels as we checked in. This was a welcome touch after a long day on the road.
That night, we had planned to dine at PICA, a popular Latin-inspired restaurant in Ubud City, but we unfortunately missed our reservation due to gridlocked traffic. Instead, we enjoyed a quiet dinner at the hotel’s ‘Plantation Restaurant’ and a relaxing end to the day. We weren’t too upset—after all, we had an early wake-up call coming the following morning.
Day 5: Sunrise Hikes and Monkey Business
Day five began in the middle of the night—with a 2:00 AM wake-up call to hike Mount Batur for sunrise. Our driver brought us to the company base camp where we were outfitted with headlamps and offered coffee and breakfast to fuel up for our long trek ahead. After a steady uphill climb in the dark, the sunlight slowly started peaking out in the distance. We arrived at the summit and found a quiet spot to take in the panoramic view just before the sun rose over the neighboring mountains. A local guitar player added a soundtrack of folk songs as the sky slowly brightened over the horizon. If you are planning on doing this hike, we recommend bringing a light jacket and good walking shoes, as it gets chilly at the summit.
After hiking back down, our driver dropped us off in the heart of Ubud Town Center. We stopped for a well-earned brunch at Milk & Madu, where the crispy BLT and peach French toast puffs were just what we needed. Next, we headed back to Alila Ubud to recover from our early morning.
Back at Alila Ubud, we took a quick nap to recover from the early morning, before heading to the hotel pool. Tucked in the jungle, we were treated to a front-row seat of monkeys playing in the trees as we relaxed by the pool. We ended the day with dinner at the acclaimed Room4Dessert, known for its inventive all-dessert tasting menu and playful approach to sweets. It was the perfect finale to a day of early adventure and laid-back charm.
Day 6: Waterfalls and Silver Making in East Bali
On Day 6, we hired a private driver for a full-day adventure exploring the quieter, more traditional side of Bali — heading east toward Sidemen, a lush and peaceful region that feels worlds away from the island’s busier beach towns. Our first stop was Tibumana Waterfall, a serene spot where a curtain of water cascades into a shallow jungle pool. From there, we made our way to the Sidemen rice terraces, which were a patchwork of vibrant green, framed by mountains and dotted with fields of golden marigolds.
One of the highlights of the day was taking a jewelry making class at Agung Silver. Here, we had the chance to melt and forge our own rings using traditional Balinese tools and techniques. Watching the owner’s children play around the shop while we worked added a sweet, personal touch. It’s a hands-on, meaningful experience that we’d highly recommend.
After a quick lunch stop at Asri Dining by Samanvaya for some delicious fried rice and coffee, we chased two more waterfalls. First was Tukad Cepung Waterfall, where the water pours through a cave-like rock formation, casting dramatic light rays when the sun hits just right. Then came Goa Raja Waterfall, a great place for an afternoon swim.
Throughout the drive, we were reminded that we were visiting during Galungan, one of Bali’s most important Hindu holidays. The roads were lined with penjor — tall, curved bamboo poles hand-decorated by villagers with offerings, flowers, and intricately woven coconut leaves. These beautiful creations gave every street an almost ceremonial feel.
We ended the day with a memorable dinner at Locavore, one of Bali’s most acclaimed restaurants. The tasting menu was full of surprises. One of the first dishes looked like the traditional Hindu offerings that we saw everywhere in Bali and included edible flowers. Later, we were served another dish where we channeled our inner monkey, fishing for ants using a honey-dipped stick. Strange? Yes. Delicious? Weirdly, also yes.
Day 7: Cooking, Coffee, and a Sunset Stroll
We started our day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a hands-on experience at Mai Organic Farm. There, we explored the gardens and picked fresh ingredients straight from the farm before learning how to cook a variety of traditional Indonesian dishes. The class was fun, interactive, and gave us a much deeper appreciation for the flavors we’d been enjoying all week.
In the late afternoon, we walked the Campuhan Ridge as the sun began to set. The golden light over the lush hills made for a peaceful and romantic stroll. Afterward, we stopped by Seniman Coffee Studio for some coffee cocktails—creative, caffeinated, and the perfect pick-me-up. We also browsed nearby boutiques and local shops, where Ally admired the designs and Ben picked up a few new tank tops.
We wrapped up the evening with dinner at Nusantara, Locavore’s sister restaurant. This spot offered a modern take on traditional Indonesian recipes, with dishes that were both rooted in history and refreshingly inventive.
Day 8: Scenic Stops en Route to Sanur
On Day 8, we hired a private driver to take us from Ubud to the beach town of Sanur, making several scenic and cultural stops along the way. First up were the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces, where we took in the layered green hills and Ally tried out one of the famous swings overlooking the terraces.
From there, we visited Tirta Empul Temple, known for its holy spring water and purification rituals. Locals and tourists alike lined up to wade through the pools, taking turns under each stone spout to cleanse their spirit in a centuries-old tradition. The temple grounds were serene and full of intricate stone carvings, with offerings tucked into every nook and corner.
Next, we stopped at Gunung Kawi Temple, an awe-inspiring complex carved directly into the cliffside. After descending a long stone staircase surrounded by rice paddies, we reached the towering shrines—believed to be memorials to ancient Balinese royalty. The jungle setting and echoing sounds of the nearby river gave the site a mystical, almost forgotten feel.
By late afternoon, we arrived in Sanur and checked into the modern and artsy Artotel Sanur. Though we were only staying for one night before heading to Nusa Penida, we instantly appreciated Sanur’s peaceful vibe. A walk along the beach confirmed it—quiet, breezy, and perfect for a laid-back evening.
We ended the day with dinner at Massimo, a popular Italian restaurant known for its pasta and gelato. The meal (and especially the dessert) made for a sweet sendoff as we looked ahead to the next leg of our Bali adventure.
Day 9: Manta Rays and Cliffside Glamping
In the morning, we caught a fast boat to Nusa Penida, arriving just in time for a snorkeling tour we had booked through GetYourGuide. Before heading out on the water, we were taken to the tour operator’s base camp where we had a chance to kayak through the peaceful mangrove forest. Because it was low tide when we arrived, the boat bottomed out in the shallow water and all of the men had to jump out to help push it —an unexpected but funny moment that helped us all get acquainted.
After a light lunch provided by the tour operators, we set off on the snorkeling tour with several stops around the island. The highlight by far was Crystal Bay, a snorkeling spot with some of the clearest water we’ve seen. Here, we had the unforgettable experience of snorkeling with manta rays in the open ocean.
After our tour, we transferred to the east side of the island, where we stayed at Tropical Glamping, a unique villa perched on the cliffs and one of our favorites hotels on Nusa Penida. Our open-air bungalow was both remote and stunning, with panoramic views of the water below. While this stay was a bit more rugged than the luxury Bali resorts we had enjoyed earlier in the trip (yes, there were lizards on the ceiling), the privacy, hospitality, and ocean views more than made up for it.
We spent the afternoon lounging on the daybed and spotting sea turtles and manta rays in the waters below. For dinner, we ordered food from the provided “room service” menu. Our hosts delivered our meal from a nearby local restaurant directly to our bungalow.
Day 10: Sunrise Treehouses, Beaches, and Natural Pools
Our second day on Nusa Penida started with an early morning wake-up to watch the sunrise. We hopped on the back of our hosts’ motorbikes and rode to the Thousand Islands Viewpoint, home to the famous treehouses overlooking the cliffs. Watching the sky turn orange over the ocean from that perch was unforgettable. A local man stationed at the treehouse charged $5 to take our photo. This is a high price by Bali standards, but the pictures were completely worth it!
After sunrise, we continued on scooters to Diamond Beach. The view from the top was incredible, but getting to the beach itself was a bit of an adventure. While the first portion of the trail was paved with steps, the final stretch required a bit of rope-assisted climbing. It’s doable, but we’d rate it medium to advanced difficulty—worth it for those up to the challenge.
Later in the afternoon, our hosts drove us in a car to Tembeling Beach and Natural Pools. There, local drivers on scooters offered rides to the bottom of the hill for a small fee. Definitely take them up on it, as it’s a bumpy 1.5-mile ride downhill followed by a short hike down some steps to a small stretch of quiet beach. At the bottom, we found a stunning pair of natural pools tucked beneath the cliffs.
After a swim, we headed to Cactus Nusa Penida, a day club with ocean views, where we enjoyed a light lunch and a few drinks. Then, we finished the day back at Tropical Glamping with more sunbathing and wildlife spotting.
One of the best things about staying at Tropical Glamping was beating the crowds—since most tourists only come to the island on day trips, we had many spots to ourselves early in the day.
Day 11: Coastal Views, Crashed Drones, and Cosmic Surprises
For our final day on Nusa Penida, we made the most of every moment. We began with a visit to Kelingking Beach—arguably the island’s most iconic viewpoint. We hiked partway down the steep trail to escape the crowds at the top and soak in the famous T-Rex-shaped cliff from a quieter vantage point. However, we opted against hiking all the way down to the beach.
Next, we stopped at Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach, two dramatic coastal formations carved by years of pounding surf. The natural bridge and swirling tide pools made for amazing photos and mesmerizing views.
We wrapped up the sightseeing portion of the day with a visit to Crystal Bay Beach for one last stroll on the sand, and a few Bintangs for good measure. Then, it was time for lunch at The Chill Penida, a breezy café overlooking the water that made for the perfect midday stop.
Back at our villa, the afternoon took a dramatic turn when our drone crashed into a huge palm tree. Fortunately, our incredible host sprang into action—literally—by climbing the 30-foot tree and retrieving it for us. That night, we had a low-key movie night planned on our outdoor deck. Just as we settled in, the entire island experienced a sudden power outage. While a bit unnerving at first, it quickly became one of the most magical moments of the trip. With no light pollution in sight, we were treated to a spectacular view of the night sky—including a clear look at the Milky Way, which we were able to capture on camera. It was the perfect unexpected finale to our time on Nusa Penida.
Day 12: Return to Sanur and Spa Day
On Day 12, we said goodbye to our clifftop bungalow and caught a fast boat back to Sanur. After a week of early mornings and packed itineraries, we welcomed a slower pace for the day. Once we arrived, we checked back into Artotel Sanur and spent a relaxing afternoon in Sanur. We treated ourselves to a massage at Nest Beachside Spa, before continuing our walk down the boardwalk and watching the sun set on our final night in Bali.
For dinner, we walked along the beach to Lilla Pantai, a breezy open-air restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and satisfying Indonesian and Western dishes. It was the perfect low-key way to wind down as our Bali honeymoon began to near its end.
Day 13: One Last Indulgence
For our final day in Bali, we checked out of our hotel but still managed to sneak in one last indulgence—a luxurious massage at the Hyatt Regency Sanur. The serene spa setting and expert therapists made it a memorable parting gift to ourselves. Afterward, we had lunch at Pizzaria, the Hyatt’s beachfront Italian restaurant. With views of the ocean and a crisp pizza straight from their wood-fired oven, it was the perfect final meal in Bali.
Later that evening, we headed to the airport for our overnight flight back to the U.S. Our long layover in Dubai gave us one last touch of luxury. We purchased access to the Emirates Lounge, where we toasted the end of our honeymoon with a glass of champagne from the Moët & Chandon bar. And yes—at 5 AM, we capped off the trip with a bowl of ice cream in the lounge. A sweet ending to a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Final Thoughts
Bali exceeded every expectation we had for a honeymoon destination. It gave us everything—adventure, luxury, culture, and the kind of serene beauty that stays with you long after the trip ends. From the dramatic cliffs of Uluwatu to the hidden pools of Nusa Penida and the spiritual stillness of Ubud, every stop had its own magic.
If you’re considering a Bali honeymoon (or just a Bali vacation), we can’t recommend it enough. Spend time in multiple regions, say yes to the unexpected, and don’t be afraid to stray from the well-trodden path. Whether you’re after luxury resorts, jungle escapes, or cliffside bungalows with manta ray views, this island has something for everyone.
We hope this day-by-day recap inspires your own unforgettable journey. If you’re dreaming of your own Bali honeymoon or planning a custom getaway, we’d love to help you make it happen. Click here to learn more about our travel advisory services and start planning your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best time of year to honeymoon in Bali?
Bali’s dry season (April–October) is ideal for sunny skies and outdoor adventures. We went in August and had near-perfect weather throughout.
How long should I plan for a Bali honeymoon?
We recommend at least 10–14 days to fully experience multiple regions of the island, from beach resorts to jungle retreats and nearby islands like Nusa Penida.
Do I need to hire private drivers or book tours in advance?
Yes! Especially if you’re covering a lot of ground. Hiring a driver is affordable in Bali and makes it much easier to get around, particularly in places like Ubud and Sidemen.
Is Nusa Penida worth staying overnight?
Absolutely. While many tourists only visit on a day trip, staying overnight allowed us to explore early in the morning before the crowds and enjoy peaceful, panoramic views from our cliffside glamping spot.
Should I use a travel advisor to plan my trip?
If you want a fully customized experience without the stress of researching every detail, a travel advisor can help. From hotels and drivers to excursions and insider tips, we make it easy to plan the perfect Bali honeymoon.
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