What Not to Do in Bali: Cultural Taboos and Tourist Mistakes

Bali is more than just a tropical escape — it’s a deeply spiritual island with centuries-old traditions, intricate customs, and a sacred way of life. While locals are famously welcoming, many tourists unintentionally cross lines they didn’t know existed. A lack of awareness can lead not only to embarrassment but also to offense, fines, or even deportation.

Whether it’s how you behave at a temple, what you wear, or the way you speak, understanding what not to do in Bali is just as important as planning your itinerary. Let’s dive into the biggest cultural taboos and tourist mistakes — and how to avoid them — so you can experience Bali with the respect it deserves. 🌺

🛕 Disrespecting Temples and Sacred Spaces

Temples in Bali aren’t just historical landmarks — they are active places of worship where daily rituals and ceremonies take place. One of the most common tourist mistakes is treating temples like photo backdrops without considering their spiritual significance.

Visitors should always wear proper attire when entering temple grounds: that means a sarong and sash for both men and women, and clothes that cover shoulders and knees. Most temples offer rentals at the entrance. It’s also important to note that women who are menstruating are traditionally not permitted to enter temples — a rule based on local belief systems and spiritual purity.

Another key point: don’t climb or sit on sacred structures, and never interrupt a ceremony or procession. Always ask before taking photos, especially of people in prayer or traditional dress. Temples are not tourist attractions — they are sacred spaces, and approaching them with humility will open the door to more meaningful cultural encounters.

📷 Treating Everything as a Photo Op

Let’s face it — Bali is incredibly photogenic. But there’s a difference between capturing memories and turning someone’s culture into a backdrop. Sadly, there’s been a rise in disrespectful tourist behavior: posing half-naked on sacred grounds, flying drones over ceremonies, or staging “authentic” moments that interrupt local life.

Remember that people live, pray, and work in the places you’re visiting. That traditional dance or offering ceremony isn’t being performed for your entertainment — it’s part of a deep spiritual practice. Be present, participate respectfully, and ask yourself: “Would I want someone doing this in my place of worship or home?”

If you’re unsure, follow the lead of locals. And when in doubt, put the camera down and take it all in — the memory will last longer than a social media post.

👙 Wearing Beachwear Beyond the Beach

Bali’s laid-back atmosphere can give travelers the impression that anything goes. But while bikinis and tank tops are fine at the beach or pool, they’re inappropriate in town, temples, and villages.

Wearing revealing clothing in public areas — particularly in front of elders, families, or during ceremonies — is seen as disrespectful. It’s also been a major topic in Bali’s updated 2025 tourism guidelines, with fines now issued for those who ignore public dress codes in cultural or religious areas.

Packing a lightweight sarong or scarf is a smart move — it’ll help you cover up quickly when needed and show locals that you’re making an effort to honor their customs. Looking good doesn’t mean disregarding local decorum — dressing modestly can still be stylish and respectful.

💬 Ignoring Local Etiquette and Politeness

Balinese culture is built on harmony, humility, and respect — especially in how people speak and interact. Loud arguments, public outbursts, or even overly assertive tones can come off as rude or aggressive. Swearing in public, especially near temples or family compounds, is a major faux pas.

Another often-overlooked custom: never touch someone’s head, even in a friendly gesture. In Balinese belief, the head is the most sacred part of the body. Similarly, pointing with your feet, stepping over offerings (canang sari), or putting your feet up on furniture are all considered impolite.

Instead, use both hands when giving or receiving something, smile often, and keep your body language calm and open. These small gestures will earn you warmth and respect — and possibly even invitations to local events or ceremonies.

🚫 Breaking the Law or Pushing Boundaries

It may sound obvious, but it bears repeating: Indonesia has strict laws, and breaking them in Bali comes with serious consequences. Drug offenses can lead to lengthy prison sentences or worse, and attempting to work without the proper visa — even freelancing — is now actively monitored and penalized.

Illegal behavior includes nudity in public places, disrespecting sacred trees or statues, and riding scooters without a helmet or license. In 2025, Bali has doubled down on enforcement, including deportation for serious violations.

Even smaller missteps — like refusing to pay the mandatory tourism levy, swearing at officials, or behaving disrespectfully at ceremonies — can land you in trouble. When you travel with humility and mindfulness, you won’t just stay out of trouble — you’ll earn deeper, richer experiences in return.

🏨 7 Curated 5-Star Hotels for a Responsible Bali Stay

Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort
French luxury meets Balinese hospitality at this elegant beachfront resort, perfect for wellness, business, and family travelers.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
A spiritual sanctuary tucked into Ubud’s jungle, offering riverside villas, yoga pavilions, and cultural immersion.
Ritz-Carlton Bali
Clifftop luxury with sweeping ocean views, elegant dining, and exceptional service rooted in Balinese traditions.
Capella Ubud
Jungle glamour meets cultural storytelling at this tented camp resort, known for its experiential hospitality and eco-conscious design.
The Legian Bali
A beachfront icon in Seminyak with timeless design, personalized service, and spacious oceanfront suites.
Padma Resort Ubud
Nestled in Bali’s highlands, this luxury resort offers tranquility, infinity pool vistas, and rich cultural programming.
The Apurva Kempinski Bali
A majestic cliffside property in Nusa Dua blending Indonesian artistry with five-star indulgence and sustainability leadership.

Bali is magical not just for its natural beauty but for its people, traditions, and spiritual soul. As travelers, our role isn’t just to take in the views — it’s to honor the places and people that make the experience meaningful. By understanding what not to do, we ensure we’re not just tourists, but respectful guests contributing to the island’s well-being.

So, pack your sarong, learn a few local phrases, and leave your assumptions behind. Bali has so much to give — and when approached with care, it gives generously.

📸 Want more cultural tips, etiquette guides, and hidden insights? Follow us: @baliexpertguide