Bali Travel Guide for Americans: Costs, Tips & Best Things to Do
If you’re an American traveler dreaming of turquoise waters, lush rice terraces, and affordable luxury, Bali, Indonesia should be on top of your vacation list. Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali is a tropical paradise that combines pristine beaches with deep cultural heritage. This guide is crafted especially for U.S. travelers, covering everything you need to know—from how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, how much it costs, and practical tips for a smooth trip.
🌍 About Bali
Bali is part of the Indonesian archipelago, located between Java and Lombok. It’s famous for its dramatic volcanoes, lush greenery, spiritual temples, yoga retreats, and some of the world’s best surfing spots. With its vibrant nightlife in places like Seminyak and Kuta, and serene retreats in Ubud, Bali offers something for every kind of traveler.
✈️ Location & Getting There from the USA
Most U.S. travelers fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar. There are no direct flights from the U.S. to Bali, so you’ll need to connect through major hubs like:
- Los Angeles (LAX) → Tokyo → Bali
- New York (JFK) → Singapore → Bali
- San Francisco (SFO) → Doha → Bali
Flight duration: 20–25 hours depending on layovers.
Average round-trip cost: $900–$1,400 (economy).
👉 Pro tip: Book at least 2–3 months in advance to lock in better fares.
❤️ Why You Love Bali ?
- Affordable Luxury: High-end resorts and private villas at a fraction of U.S. prices.
- Wellness & Yoga: Retreats in Ubud attract wellness seekers.
- Adventure Activities: Surfing, scuba diving, hiking Mount Batur.
- Cultural Immersion: Balinese Hindu temples, local ceremonies, traditional dances.
- Instagram-worthy Landscapes: Rice terraces, waterfalls, beaches, and jungle swings.
🏝️ Best Things to Do in Bali
1. Explore Bali’s Beaches
- Kuta Beach – Perfect for surfing beginners.
- Seminyak Beach – Trendy with beach clubs and nightlife.
- Nusa Dua – Family-friendly with calm waters.
- Padang Padang – A hidden gem for couples.
👉 Related: best things to do in Bali
2. Visit Temples
- Tanah Lot – A temple on a rock formation, especially magical at sunset.
- Uluwatu Temple – Famous for clifftop views and Kecak fire dance.
- Besakih Temple – Known as the “Mother Temple of Bali.”
3. Adventure & Nature
- Mount Batur Sunrise Trek – Hike to the top for breathtaking sunrise views.
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces – Iconic lush green fields near Ubud.
- Sekumpul Waterfall – One of the most beautiful in Bali.
4. Wellness & Spirituality
- Yoga and meditation retreats in Ubud.
- Spa treatments with traditional Balinese massage.
5. Nightlife & Entertainment
- Seminyak – Upscale beach clubs like Potato Head.
- Kuta – Bars, clubs, and lively nightlife.
👉 Related: Bali nightlife guide
🍲 Food & Local Cuisine
Balinese food is a flavorful mix of spices, rice, and meats. Some must-try dishes include:
- Nasi Goreng – Indonesian-style fried rice.
- Satay (Sate) – Grilled skewers with peanut sauce.
- Babi Guling – Suckling pig, a Balinese specialty.
- Mie Goreng – Fried noodles with chicken or shrimp.
For Americans who love coffee, don’t miss Kopi Luwak, one of the rarest (and priciest) coffees in the world.
🚕 Transport in Bali
Public transport is limited, so most travelers rely on:
- Taxis & Grab (ride-sharing app) – Affordable and convenient.
- Scooter rentals – ~$7–10 per day (popular among backpackers).
- Private drivers – ~$40–50 per day; great for families or day trips.
🏨 Accommodation Options
Bali offers something for every budget:
- Luxury Resorts – $200–400 per night (often with infinity pools, beachfront, spa).
- Private Villas – $70–150 per night, often including a private pool.
- Budget Hostels/Guesthouses – $10–25 per night.
Top areas to stay:
- Seminyak (luxury & nightlife)
- Ubud (wellness & culture)
- Canggu (surfing & digital nomads)
- Nusa Dua (families & calm beaches)
⏳ How Much Time You Need
- Quick Trip: 5–7 days (cover beaches + Ubud + day trips).
- Ideal Stay: 10–14 days (include cultural tours, waterfalls, temples).
- Extended Vacation: 3–4 weeks (relax, explore, mix work + leisure).
👉 Related: day trips from Bali
💰 Cost Breakdown for Americans
Here’s a rough estimate of expenses:
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight (round trip) | $900–$1,200 | $1,200–$1,400 | $1,400+ |
| Accommodation (per night) | $10–25 | $70–150 | $250–400 |
| Food (per day) | $10–15 | $20–40 | $60–100 |
| Transport (per day) | $7–20 | $40–50 (driver) | $70+ |
| Activities & Tours | $20–50 | $50–100 | $150+ |
Total 7-day trip cost (per person):
- Budget: ~$1,400–1,700
- Mid-range: ~$2,200–2,800
- Luxury: ~$4,000+
🌟 Benefits of Visiting Bali
- Affordable compared to Hawaii or Maldives.
- Strong WiFi and digital nomad culture for remote workers.
- Diverse experiences: relaxation + adventure + culture.
- Friendly locals and vibrant expat community.
⚠️ Precautions & Travel Tips
- Visa: Americans can enter with a Visa on Arrival ($35) for 30 days.
- Health: Stay hydrated; carry mosquito repellent.
- Safety: Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Respect Local Customs: Cover shoulders/knees when visiting temples.
- Travel Insurance: Recommended for medical + flight changes.
✅ Conclusion
Bali is more than just a destination—it’s an experience blending natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern comforts. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple on a honeymoon, or a family looking for an affordable beach vacation, Bali has something unique to offer.
Plan smart, budget wisely, and immerse yourself in the magic of Bali—the Island of the Gods. 🌺