A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Bali: Safety, Best Areas & Things to Do
Bali is one of the most welcoming destinations for solo travelers, offering a blend of adventure, culture, relaxation, and social experiences that cater to all types of independent explorers. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in spirituality, surf world-class waves, or meet like-minded travelers, Bali has something for everyone.
Traveling alone can be a liberating experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace, make spontaneous decisions, and step outside your comfort zone. Bali makes solo travel stress-free and enjoyable, thanks to its friendly locals, affordable costs, and well-established tourist infrastructure. With plenty of hostels, co-living spaces, and wellness retreats, it’s also one of the easiest places to make friends on the road.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about traveling solo in Bali, including safety tips, the best areas to stay, must-do activities, and ways to meet other travelers. Whether you’re a backpacker, digital nomad, or a first-time solo explorer, this guide will ensure you have an incredible and enriching experience in Bali.
1. Is Bali Safe for Solo Travelers?
Bali is widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia for solo travelers. Crime rates are low, and the Balinese people are warm, friendly, and always willing to help tourists. The island is filled with other travelers, expats, and backpackers, making it easy to navigate and explore without feeling isolated.
However, like any travel destination, there are still some safety precautions you should take. The most common issues travelers face in Bali are petty theft, tourist scams, and road accidents. Being aware of your surroundings and taking simple precautions can ensure a smooth and safe experience.
🛡️ Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Bali
✔ Avoid unlicensed taxis – Always use Grab or Gojek, as street taxis often overcharge tourists.
✔ Watch out for ATM scams – Only withdraw cash from official bank ATMs inside supermarkets or hotels.
✔ Stay aware of petty theft – Keep your phone and bag secure, especially in crowded areas like markets and beaches.
✔ Be cautious when driving scooters – If you rent a scooter, always wear a helmet and carry an international driving permit.
✔ Avoid drinking tap water – Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid getting sick.
✔ Trust your instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation.
💡 Insider Tip:
If you’re traveling alone and want extra security, consider staying in a hostel, co-living space, or guesthouse where you can meet other travelers. Joining Facebook groups like “Bali Solo Travelers” is also a great way to connect with other solo explorers for meetups and travel tips.
2. Best Areas to Stay in Bali for Solo Travelers
Choosing the right area to stay in is key to having an enjoyable solo trip. Different areas of Bali offer different experiences, so where you stay should depend on whether you want a social, adventurous, relaxing, or cultural trip.
🏨 Best Budget-Friendly Hotels & Hostels in Bali
📍 Canggu
✔ The Bed By The Sea Hostel – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
✔ Canggu Beach Inn – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
📍 Ubud
✔ Bali Firefly BnB – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
✔ Adiwana Unagi Suites – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
✔ The Compass Rose Ubud – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
📍 Seminyak
✔ The Capsule Bali – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
✔ The Alea Hotel Seminyak – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
📍 Uluwatu
✔ Le Cliff Bali – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
📍 Sanur
✔ Sanur House – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
📍 Sidemen
✔ Wapa di Ume Sidemen – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
✔ Surya Shanti Villa – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
✔ Sawah Indah Villa – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
📍 Candidasa
✔ Bali Santi Bungalows – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
📍 Amed & Tulamben
✔ Palm Garden Amed Beach & Spa Resort – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
📍 Pemuteran
✔ Amertha Bali Villas – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
✔ Taman Sari Bali Resort & Spa – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
✔ Kubuku Eco Dive Lodge & Yoga – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities and comfort.
By choosing the right area to stay in, following basic safety precautions, and engaging in solo-friendly activities, your solo adventure in Bali can be both exciting and deeply fulfilling. Whether you’re here for relaxation, social connections, adventure, or self-discovery, Bali has everything you need for an incredible solo journey.
3. Best Things to Do as a Solo Traveler in Bali
Bali is filled with amazing solo-friendly activities that allow you to explore, socialize, and immerse yourself in the island’s culture.
🌅 Best Activities for Solo Travelers
✔ Join a yoga or meditation retreat – Ubud is filled with world-class yoga centers like The Yoga Barn.
✔ Take a Balinese cooking class – Learn to make traditional dishes like Nasi Goreng and Lawar.
✔ Go on a sunrise hike up Mount Batur – Meet other adventurers while watching a breathtaking sunrise.
✔ Explore the waterfalls of Bali – Tegenungan, Tukad Cepung, and Sekumpul are must-visits.
✔ Go surfing or take a lesson – Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu offer great surf schools for beginners.
✔ Visit a coworking space – If you’re a digital nomad, work remotely while networking with other travelers.
✔ Experience Bali’s nightlife solo – Canggu and Seminyak have friendly bars where you can easily meet people.
✔ Take a day trip to Nusa Penida – Explore the island’s famous cliffs, beaches, and viewpoints.
💡 Insider Tip:
If you want to meet other travelers, join group activities like yoga classes, surf camps, or community meetups. Many hostels and coworking spaces host social events that are perfect for solo explorers.
Why Bali is a Perfect Destination for Solo Travelers
Bali is one of the easiest and safest places in the world to travel alone. With its friendly locals, welcoming expat community, and endless activities, you’ll never truly feel alone. Whether you’re looking for peaceful reflection, social experiences, adventure, or cultural immersion, Bali offers it all.
By choosing the right area to stay, being aware of safety precautions, and embracing solo-friendly experiences, you’ll have an unforgettable trip that allows you to explore at your own pace.
Ready for your solo adventure? Book your stay at one of Bali’s best budget-friendly hotels and start exploring the island’s beauty and culture on your own terms! 🌴✨
