Natasha EffendyOver the years, Bali has become one of our favourite bucket list destinations. The serene island in Indonesia is known for its unique culture, fun watersports, and amazing cuisine. But most importantly, it is home to some of the top photo spots in the country! If you’re looking for the best places to take your pictures on your trip, here are the top Instagrammable places in Bali for memorable pictures.
Note: We’ve also added alternatives for some of these photo spots — just in case they get too crowded during peak season and you prefer someplace with “less competition.”
Also read: Bali Travel Tips: 20 Do’s and Don’ts That Every Tourist Should Know
Top Bali Instagram spots for the best travel shots
1. Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Image credit: Jared Lisack
Bali’s rice terraces are often a part of most travel influencers’ Instagram photos for a reason! Not only do these provide a serene backdrop, but the way the rice paddies are arranged is also satisfying to look at. Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud is arguably one of the best Instagrammable places in Bali, especially with the clear blue skies and deep valleys.
On a different note, if you want the same kind of setting but with fewer crowds, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces in West Bali is your best bet! It’s much bigger than Tegallalang and the dramatic sight of Mount Batukaru in the distance really adds to the visual experience.
Also read: Top 12 Airbnbs in Ubud for Your Next Balinese Adventure
2. Jimbaran Beach
Image credit: James Tiono
Other than rice terraces, some of the best Instagram spots in Bali lie on its beaches. While Seminyak Beach is the most famous among travellers, the large crowds can be overwhelming for some. Instead, let us take you to other beaches that are equally just as popular!
Jimbaran Beach is home to miles of golden sand and deep blue waters. It’s a great place to get some full bikini shots and show off your island vacation. After your photoshoot, indulge in a world of fresh seafood at any beachside restaurant!
Also read: 13 Things to Do in Kuta, Bali for a Memorable Time
3. Sanur Beach
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Do you want a more peaceful beach getaway? Sanur Beach might just inspire you! The beach’s laid-back atmosphere and the palm trees in the backdrop make it such a vibe. It’s no wonder that many would say that Sanur is one of their favourite Instagrammable places in Bali.
Due to its location on the quieter side of Denpasar, there are fewer tourists, which may be ideal for introverts on vacation. Plus, the waves are much calmer here, which is great for families with younger children.
4. Pura Lempuyang Temple
Image credit (L-R): Yumi mini via Canva Pro; Jenniferbustamin
Just like the beaches, Bali has a myriad of temples scattered throughout the island. In fact, there are over 10,000 of them, including Pura Lempuyang Temple. It’s the oldest and most sacred temple on the island, predating other Hindu temples on the island. In fact, Pura Lempuyang is considered one of the six holiest places of worship in Bali. It is also believed to bring spiritual balance to the land.
For years, the Gates of Heaven has been featured in many travel photos. Many have flocked to this Instagrammable place in Bali for views of Mount Lempuyang in the background as, well as the iconic shot of the gates (candi bentar) reflecting against a body of water. However, contrary to popular belief, the image is actually an optical illusion achieved with your smartphone being placed along a sheet of glass. Sorry to burst your bubble, folks!
TripZilla Tip: Come at sunrise to avoid the crowds, as Pura Lempuyang Temple can get crowded later in the day.
Also read: 10 Breathtaking Temples in Southeast Asia You Might Not Know About
5. Handara Golf & Resort Bali
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Besides Pura Lempuyang Temple, there is another location where you can post in front of the temple gates. At Handara Golf & Resort Bali, the entrance is marked by two massive gates. They make an incredible backdrop for Instagram photos, and the dark-hued gates are a great contrast against the light green of the surrounding nature.
TripZilla Tip: If you arrive after 9am, the entrance fee is only IDR15,000 (~S$1.31).
6. Gitgit Waterfall
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In addition to beaches and temples, it’s time to check out some incredible waterfalls. Gitgit Waterfall is one of the most famous Instagrammable places in Bali, and it’s a highly recommended destination if you love the jungle. Picture this: A gorgeous waterfall cascading into a refreshing pool, paired together with an evergreen rainforest. At certain times of the day, you even get to see the sunlight reflecting off the surface of the water.
If you’re still interested to check out Bali’s other waterfalls, there’s also Tegenungan Waterfall, Kanto Lampo Waterfall, and Tibumana Waterfall. Each of these Instagram-worthy spots offers ample opportunities to take amazing photos of the rushing waterfall, topped off with great lighting and memorable experiences to remember.
7. Bali Twin Lakes Viewpoint
Buyan Lake | Image credit: Joel Carillet via Canva Pro
Are you fancying some of the best panoramic views on your trip? Let’s go to the Bali Twin Lakes viewpoint! Besides incredible mountain views, you get to see Tamblingan Lake and Buyan Lake in their entirety.
In Bali, Lake Tamblingan is important to the villagers who make their living through fishing and local tourism. On the other hand, Lake Buyan is known for its spiritual tranquillity. Many often come here for peace of mind, and to refresh their perspective. If you time your photoshoot right, you’ll get a dreamy shot with the rising fog in the background. The cloudy mist is actually a result of the cold lakeside weather.
8. Bukit Cinta
Mount Agung | Image credit: JustinRayboun via Canva Pro
Another viewpoint that is worth visiting is Bukit Cinta. It’s located two hours away from Ubud, but the long journey is so worth seeing one of Bali’s best photo spots. Not only do you get to see an unobstructed view of Mount Agung, but you also get to see the paddy fields beneath and the surrounding lush rainforests. Even though the idea of visiting an active volcano might sound a little daunting for some, this is still a way to see it up close!
Also read: 10 Mountains to Climb in Indonesia With the Most Stunning Views
9. Campuhan Ridge Walk
Image credit: bckfwd
A trip to Bali is not complete without going on scenic hiking trails in the morning. If that is something you’re interested in, then the Campuhan Ridge Walk is the place to be. This windy walkway is most beautiful at sunrise, as you get to see the sky change colours and soak in the fresh air.
10. Tirta Gangga Water Palace
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On the note of more dreamy locations, Tirta Gangga Water Palace is one of many Bali Instagram spots you have to visit! They’re most famous for their outdoor gardens, which come with a fish pond and stepping stones. Carefully sit on the largest stepping stone and wait for the fish to gather around you. Altogether, you’ll get a picture that’s the true definition of “zen vibes”.
11. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Image credit: Guillaume Marques
Another attraction that is worthy of dreams is Ulu Danu Beratan Temple in Tabanan Regency. It’s currently one of the best Bali photoshoot locations you’ll ever come across on your trip! On top of its distinct Balinese architecture, the temple is famous for its shrines devoted to the Hindu gods of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
As the temple is located beside Lake Beratan, it looks as though it is floating atop the water from a distance. You’ll be also able to catch a glimpse of the small ripples on the surface of the lake, as well as the mist that rises from the water.
12. Ubud Monkey Forest
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The Ubud Monkey Forest is one of the best photo spots in Bali because of its fascinating residents. It has at least 115 different species of trees, around 700 monkeys, and three temples: Dalem Agung Padangtegal Temple, Holy Spring Temple, and Prajapati Temple. Altogether, these attractions make this sanctuary a must-visit for travellers in Ubud, especially animal lovers!
Pose in front of one of the three temples and snap a selfie with a cheeky Balinese long-tailed macaque. We promise they’ll be the highlight of your trip, but do be careful around them. These monkeys are prone to taking your belongings — especially your food — and if provoked, they may attack you.
Also read: 26 Things to Do in Ubud for Every First-Time Visitor
13. Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa
As an idyllic island getaway, Bali does come with a selection of incredible hotels. Specifically, Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa is a staycationer’s dream. It’s most famous for its infinity pool, which boasts views of the mountains and valleys beyond.
At sunrise or sunset, stand at the edge of this pool and pose for a photo or two. The combination of your reflection in the water and the scenic skies makes for a really cool shot. We bet your friends and followers are going to love your photos!
14. Adiwana Dara Ayu Villas
Image credit: Adiwana Hotels Official Website
Similarly, the terrace-facing pool of Adiwana Dara Ayu Villas is another of the Instagrammable places in Bali that are popular among influencers. Those who crave a short getaway often book a stay at the villas, which are located in the north of the island. Guests are treated to comfortable rooms with a vista of the miles of Balinese terraces below.
Snap a picture of yourself taking a dip in the water in the late afternoon or catching the sunrise from your balcony. We guarantee the pictures are going to come out so good!
Instagrammable places in Bali for food and drinks
15. Nalu Bowls
Image credit: Nalu Bowls Official Facebook Page
Are you craving something to beat the heat? Nalu Bowls in Seminyak has every kind of smoothie bowl that you may need! Snap pictures of your coconut-filled smoothie bowls and take candids of your mini mukbang as you dig into a hearty plate of waffles.
Plus, it’s an aesthetically pleasing breakfast spot to meet up with friends on your trip! You’ll love the minimalist white interiors that’ll make the colours of your swimsuit pop. Meanwhile, the straw-roofed bar will match the breezy beach vibes you’ve been looking for.
Also read: 10 Instagrammable Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Bali That You Have to Try
16. Coffee Cartel
Image credit (L-R): Coffee Cartel Bali Official Facebook Page; Coffee Cartel Bali Official Instagram Page
Another cafe in Seminyak that’s worth stopping by is Coffee Cartel. They’re known for their bright pink cafe theme and their delicious menu. That is, they serve Instagrammable coffee drinks that will definitely make you want to come back. Better yet, ask the staff to draw selfies on your latte.
Once you’ve finished your meal, don’t leave just yet! Head outside to pose in front of their bright pink wall with a cactus mural for a quick OOTD pic. They’re going to be cute additions to your weekly photo dumps!
Also read: 10 Undiscovered Gems to Visit in Bali’s Trendiest Seminyak Neighbourhood
17. Motel Mexicola
Image credit: Motel Mexicola Official Facebook Page
After sunset, Bali’s nights are alight with parties, drinks, and all kinds of good vibes. At Motel Mexicola, it’s time to party! During the day, you might know the place for good Mexican cuisine. But at night, the whole restaurant turns into a neon-lit fiesta filled with music.
Motel Mexicola has quite a fun and groovy theme going on, so there are plenty of corners to take your pictures! Pose in front of their hand-painted walls as you head upstairs or sip on a margarita for your Instagram stories. Afterwards, film some clips of the live DJ and the party on the dance floor — it’ll be a night you’ll never forget!
Best photo spots near Bali to make the most of your trip
18. Yellow Bridge
Image credit: Wayan Sudiarta
If you’re on the hunt for underrated Bali photoshoot locations, Yellow Bridge probably takes the cake. True to its name, this attraction is a brightly coloured bridge that connects Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Many couples like to come here during the day to take pictures together while taking a romantic walk. The bridge is an ideal location for OOTD shots because of the vibrant backdrop it offers.
Note: The bridge is not closed off from motorcycles and pedestrians. Look out for incoming traffic before posing for photos.
19. Blue Lagoon
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Likewise, the Blue Lagoon on Nusa Ceningan will add so much colour to your Instagram pictures! The turquoise waters paired against the rocky coves are a sight to behold, and you simply can’t leave this place without a picture or two. If you want the best shot, get to the top of a cliff at sunset and pose in front of the stunning blue horizon.
20. Kelingking Beach
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If you ever find yourself on Nusa Penida, you need to stop by Kelingking Beach. As one of the most Instagrammable places in Bali, you get treated to incredible beach shots, hidden caves, and a massive bay that feels like paradise. From the top, you can see how the shape of the coastline resembles a T-Rex head, which is arguably one of the best parts of this attraction. Although the trek down and back up can be quite difficult for some, many claim it’s so worth it because of how surreal the views are!
Also read: The Ultimate Guide to Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan
21. Crystal Bay
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In addition to our list of the best photo spots in Bali, Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida is a gorgeous setting of palm trees. There are a lot of these tropical trees lining the sandy beach, making it a fun place to shoot pictures! While most of our aforementioned spots need you to come in the early morning, you can definitely come in later for this one. Crystal Bay is even better at sunset, and you can watch it in real-time as you sip on a fresh coconut.
Also read: 12 Stunning Islands in Indonesia Near Singapore That Are Perfect for a Short Holiday
As you can see, there are so many unforgettable Instagrammable places in Bali for you to visit. From serene temples to colourful restaurants, we know our guide will guarantee all kinds of pictures on your trip!
Facebook image credit (top right): Motel Mexicola | Official Facebook Page
