Looking for thrilling sports in Bali? Whether you’re drawn to the waves for surfing or diving or relish land adventures like cycling and hiking, this guide covers the top sports that you can’t miss in Bali. Get ready to dive into adventure with activities for every enthusiast.
Key Takeaways
- Bali is an adventure lover’s paradise with a vast array of affordable water sports, including surfing, scuba diving, jet skiing, and banana boat rides, available at popular beaches like Sanur and Tanjung Benoa.
- Unique and thrilling activities like flyboarding, river rafting, and Subwing provide adrenaline-pumping experiences, ensuring there’s something for every excitement seeker.
- For those preferring land adventures, Bali offers activities like cliff jumping, guided cycling tours through scenic rice terraces, and golfing at picturesque courses, balancing adventure with cultural exploration.
Water Sports Extravaganza

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Bali’s crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs make it a top destination for water sports. The island offers a wide range of activities that cater to all levels of adventure lovers. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean provide the perfect playground for an array of water sports, from the exhilarating to the serene. Some popular water sports in Bali include:
- Surfing
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Jet skiing
- Parasailing
- Banana boat rides
What’s more, water sports in Bali are generally cheaper compared to other parts of the world, making it accessible for everyone to indulge in some fun.
Visitors can enjoy a plethora of activities in Bali, including:
- Scuba diving
- Sea walking
- Jet skiing
- Banana boat rides
- Fly fishing
- Underwater scooter rides
Popular spots like Sanur, Pandawa Beach, Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua, and the Ayung River in Ubud are buzzing with these amazing water sports. Whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline junkie or a first-timer, Bali’s water sports scene has something for everyone.
Scuba Diving

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Immerse yourself in Bali’s tropical waters, exploring the vibrant marine life and vivid coral reefs through scuba diving. Some popular diving spots in Bali include:
- Menjangan Island: renowned for its exceptional diving spots, offering clear waters and a diverse array of marine life
- Sanur Beach: captivating with unique underwater attractions
- Tulamben: equally captivating, with unique underwater attractions that beckon divers from around the world
Scuba diving in Bali offers:
- An adventure into a vibrant underwater world
- Coral reefs teeming with beautiful marine life, from exotic fish to intricate coral formations
- Thrilling and awe-inspiring diving spots
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced divers
It’s an experience that will leave you wanting more.
Sea Walking

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The underwater realm of Bali can be discovered through sea walking, a unique activity that allows you to walk along the seabed using a specially designed helmet. This helmet enables you to breathe underwater and explore marine life up close, making it accessible for both swimmers and non-swimmers alike.
Suitable for ages nine to seventy, sea walking is a fantastic way to witness Bali’s underwater beauty without needing any prior swimming experience.
Jet Skiing

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Get your adrenaline rushing with a thrilling jet ski ride at Tanjung Benoa Beach. This activity is perfect for thrill-seekers and is accessible for both swimmers and non-swimmers.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, jet skiing in Bali offers an exhilarating adventure that shouldn’t be missed.
Banana Boat Ride

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Indulge in a fun family adventure with a banana boat ride on South Bali’s unspoiled beaches. Banana boat rides are perfect for non-swimmers and provide an exciting and fun experience for everyone involved. These rides are a great way to enjoy Bali’s beautiful waters together with family or friends, ensuring laughter and excitement with every bump and turn.
Fly Fishing

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At Tanjung Benoa Beach, you can give the distinctive local water sport of fly fishing a try. This activity involves:
- Riding on a flat rubber boat that mimics the action of flying fish
- Being pulled by a speed boat
- Gliding effortlessly and experiencing the thrill of skimming across the water.
Fly fishing is safe and easy, making it a fun activity for all ages.
Surfing Adventures

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As a surfer’s haven, Bali presents unparalleled surfing prospects for all skill levels at famous beaches such as Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Kuta. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an advanced surfer seeking challenging breaks, Bali has something for everyone. The island’s surf schools and consistent waves make it an ideal destination for both learning and honing your surfing skills.
Some of the best surf spots in Bali include:
- Gado-Gado in Seminyak, perfect for beginners
- Padang Padang, renowned for hosting surf competitions
- Uluwatu, with its iconic left-hand breaks and swells reaching up to 15 feet
Bali caters to surfers of all abilities, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll find the perfect wave for you. Uluwatu, in particular, is a must-visit for those looking for an epic surfing adventure.
Surfing for All Levels

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With its long, gentle waves ideal for learning, Kuta Beach attracts numerous novice surfers. Balangan Beach offers mellow waves for beginners at high tide, while intermediates can find more challenging conditions when the swell gets bigger. Various surf schools in Bali cater to surfers of all levels, helping them improve their skills and enjoy the best surfing Bali has to offer.
Kite Surfing

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Embrace the exhilaration of kite surfing in Bali, a demanding water sport necessitating robust swimming abilities and experience. Sanur’s southeast-facing Mertasari Beach, Tanjung Benoa, and Nusa Dua are some of the best coasts for kitesurfing. Sanur is great for beginners due to its constant onshore winds and flat water near the shoreline, while Tanjung Benoa is considered Bali’s premier playground for water sports, including kiteboarding.
Canggu attracts advanced riders and those who prefer fun aerials, with cleaner waters and side-offshore winds during the dry season. Proper kitesurfing gear includes:
- a board
- a control bar and harness
- a helmet
- a wetsuit
- a traction kite
The Rip Curl School of Surf in Sanur and Bali Kitesurfing School provide excellent training programs for beginners and advanced surfers alike.
Windsurfing

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Master the art of windsurfing in Bali’s tranquil waters, with perfect spots located at Canggu, Nusa Dua, and Legian. These spots offer manageable conditions for beginners to learn and practice their skills. Windsurfing requires some level of swimming skills, ensuring safety and enjoyment while navigating the waves.
Thrilling Water Sports

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Indulge in some of Bali’s most exhilarating water sports to get your heart racing. Flyboarding and water jetpacks offer the sensation of flying above the water, propelled by high-pressure water jets. These activities can be tried at Tanjung Benoa Beach in Nusa Dua, a hotspot for adventure seekers. Both flyboarding and water jetpacks are considered challenging but do not require swimming skills, making them accessible to a wide range of participants.
Wakeboarding is another exhilarating water sport available at Bali Wake Park. This five-hectare cable park lake offers:
- Wakeboarding
- Kneeboarding
- Waterskiing
- Skurfing
The park also features an infinity pool with a mini bar, providing a perfect spot to relax and watch the action on the lake.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or looking to try something new, Bali’s most thrilling water sports, including extreme water sport activities, will leave you breathless.
River Rafting

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Embark on a thrilling river rafting adventure in Ubud, following routes along the Ayung and Telaga Waja rivers. The Ayung River offers rafting tracks of about 10-12 km with medium rapids suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike. The scenic journey takes around 2 hours and includes picturesque views of lush landscapes and waterfalls.
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Telaga Waja River in Karangasem provides the longest rafting tracks in Bali, ranging from 14-17 km. This river features faster rapids with a grade 4 drop, making it ideal for adventure seekers. The journey through the Telaga Waja River takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, offering a thrilling and unforgettable rafting experience.
Water Jetpacks

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Soar over the water surface using water jetpacks at Tanjung Benoa Beach. This activity allows participants to:
- Perform incredible maneuvers
- Feel like a superhero
- Experience the sensation of flying
- Be propelled into the air by high-pressure water jets
Tanjung Benoa Beach is the perfect location to try this exhilarating sport.
Wakeboarding

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Feel the adrenaline rush of wakeboarding at Bali Wake Park, where you can try your hand at:
- Wakeboarding
- Kneeboarding
- Waterskiing
- Skurfing
on a five-hectare cable park lake. The park features an infinity pool with a mini bar that overlooks the action on the lake, providing a perfect spot to relax and watch the riders.
Bali Wake Park offers a lounge area designed for relaxation, allowing you to unwind after an exciting session on the water. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, wakeboarding at Bali Wake Park is an amazing water sport that promises an adrenaline rush and a thrilling experience.
Unique Marine Activities

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Delve into Bali’s aquatic life with distinctive activities such as Subwing, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, and Water Tubing. These activities offer a different perspective on Bali’s underwater world, allowing you to glide through the water and experience the rich marine life up close.
SUP, also known as Stand Up Paddle Boarding, offers a serene way to glide on waves and immerse yourself in the stunning water landscapes of Bali. Water tubing along the Ayung and Telaga Waja rivers offers a thrilling ride with scenic views of coffee plantations, national parks, and canyons.
Subwing

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Venture underwater using a Subwing, a thrilling activity where you’re attached to a speedboat through a pair of wing-like boards. This unique experience allows you to explore Bali’s vibrant marine life and coral reefs in a way like never before.
The Subwing activity in the Gili Islands lets you see a variety of marine creatures, including coral, fish, starfish, and turtles, making it a must-try for underwater adventurers.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding

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Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) provides a tranquil method to appreciate the calm ambiance of Bali. You can glide on waves at popular spots like Sanur Beach, Kuta Beach, and Tanjung Benoa Beach, experiencing the raw beauty of Bali’s water landscapes.
The best time to try SUP in Bali is between December and March, when the waters are calm and inviting.
Water Tubing

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Feel the exhilaration of water tubing down the Ayung and Telaga Waja rivers, surrounded by scenic views of coffee plantations, national parks, and canyons. This activity combines the excitement of navigating rapids with the beauty of Bali’s lush landscapes, making it a memorable adventure for all ages.
Relaxing Water Sports

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If you prefer a tranquil water sports experience, Bali boasts a range of calming activities, letting you relax while appreciating the island’s inherent charm. Kayaking, snorkeling, and parasailing are perfect for adventure lovers who prefer a slower pace but still want to explore Bali’s stunning waters.
Kayaking allows you to paddle through Bali’s serene waters at your own pace, exploring scenic routes through rice terraces, traditional villages, and lush forests. Snorkeling offers a glimpse into Bali’s vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs, with popular spots like Blue Lagoon, Padangbai, and Nusa Penida providing breathtaking underwater views.
Parasailing combines excitement with relaxation, giving you the chance to soar above Bali’s coastlines and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
Kayaking

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Traverse Bali’s placid waters on guided kayaking tours, offering scenic routes through rice terraces, traditional villages, and lush forests. Kayaking in Bali can be enjoyed at spots like Livadi Beach and the Ayung River, where tranquil waters make it ideal for beginners.
Tandem kayaks are available for those without experience, ensuring a fun and safe adventure for everyone.
Snorkeling

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Unveil Bali’s dynamic aquatic life and stunning coral reefs through snorkeling at renowned locations such as Blue Lagoon, Padangbai, and Nusa Penida. Blue Lagoon in Padangbai is renowned for its sightings of oceanic sunfish and diverse coral reefs, making it a favourite among snorkelers. The coral reefs at Padangbai are a highlight, offering a colorful and engaging underwater experience.
Nusa Penida is another prime snorkeling location in Bali, known for its encounters with manta rays and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re exploring the coral gardens or swimming alongside majestic manta rays, snorkeling in Bali provides an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s underwater wonders.
Parasailing

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Embrace the excitement of parasailing at Sanur Beach and Nusa Dua, offering breathtaking views of Bali’s coastlines. Parasailing is available both solo and in tandem, making it accessible for partners or family members to enjoy together.
This activity combines the excitement of soaring above the water with the safety of professional guides and equipment, ensuring a fun and unforgettable experience for all.
Land-Based Sports

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Besides being famous for its water sports, Bali also presents a plethora of land-based adventure activities for those eager to delve into its picturesque landscapes and abundant cultural heritage. From the adrenaline rush of cliff jumping to the scenic beauty of cycling tours and the relaxation of golfing, Bali’s land-based sports provide a perfect balance to its aquatic adventures.
Cliff jumping at popular spots like Jimbaran Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Balangan Beach offers a thrilling experience for the brave-hearted. For a more leisurely exploration, guided cycling tours take you through Bali’s picturesque rice terraces, traditional villages, and lush forests, providing an intimate look at the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Cliff Jumping

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Leap into the abyss at favored cliff jumping locations such as Jimbaran Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Balangan Beach. Cliff jumping in Bali requires thorough safety checks, including assessing depth, debris, and water conditions to ensure a safe and exhilarating experience.
Aling-Aling Waterfalls offer various cliff jumping opportunities with jumps ranging from 5 to 15 metres, providing a thrilling adventure for those looking to test their courage.
Cycling Tours

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Navigate through Bali’s picturesque terrains on guided cycling tours, traversing rice terraces, traditional villages, and lush forests. These tours provide insights into Bali’s rich cultural heritage and offer picturesque routes through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces and the Kintamani Region.
Cycling tours in Bali cater to all skill levels, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for all participants.
Golfing

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Commence your game at Bali’s premier golf courses, offering stunning ocean views and challenging courses designed by renowned golf architects. Bukit Pandawa Golf & Country Club in Uluwatu provides award-winning facilities and meticulously maintained grounds.
Whether you’re an avid golfer or a casual player, golfing in Bali offers a luxurious and scenic experience.
Summary
Bali’s diverse range of adventure sports ensures that there’s something for everyone, regardless of their experience level or interests. From the thrilling water sports like scuba diving, jet skiing, and flyboarding to the more serene activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and parasailing, Bali’s water sports scene is unparalleled. The island’s stunning natural beauty and warm tropical waters provide the perfect backdrop for these unforgettable experiences.
In addition to its aquatic adventures, Bali also offers exciting land-based sports like cliff jumping, cycling tours, and golfing, providing a well-rounded adventure for all. Whether you’re plunging into the depths of the ocean, soaring above the waves, or exploring the island’s scenic landscapes, Bali promises an adventure of a lifetime. So pack your bags, embrace the thrill, and dive into the adventure paradise that is Bali!
For help booking your aquatic or land based adventure contact Bali Res Centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places for scuba diving in Bali?
The best places for scuba diving in Bali are Menjangan Island, Sanur Beach, and Tulamben! These spots are famous for their vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs. So, grab your gear and get ready for an underwater adventure!
Is sea walking suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, sea walking in Bali is suitable for non-swimmers because participants use a specially designed helmet to breathe underwater, allowing them to explore the seabed safely. It’s a great opportunity to experience the underwater world!
Where can I try kite surfing in Bali?
You can try kite surfing in Bali at Sanur’s Mertasari Beach, Tanjung Benoa, and Nusa Dua! Get ready for an amazing kite surfing experience in these beautiful coastal locations!
What are the top spots for cliff jumping in Bali?
You should definitely check out Jimbaran Bay, Blue Lagoon, Balangan Beach, and Aling-Aling Waterfalls for some amazing cliff jumping experiences in Bali! Get ready for some adrenaline-pumping fun!