Bali has long been a magnet for solo travelers seeking sun, surf, and self-discovery. Beyond the Instagram-perfect rice terraces and temple shots, the Indonesian island offers genuine connections through its warm local communities, thriving expat circles, and fellow wanderers. Whether you’re a first-time solo adventurer or a seasoned nomad, Bali’s blend of spiritual culture, outdoor adventure, and social scenes makes going it alone feel anything but lonely.

Budgeting for Solo Travel in Bali (2025)

Bali remains a budget-friendly destination in 2025, with solo travellers able to tailor their trip to suit almost any spending style. Here’s a rough daily cost breakdown based on travel style:

Indonesian Rupiah notes

How much does solo travel in Bali cost?

Note: Prices may vary by season and region. Ubud and Canggu tend to be more affordable than Seminyak or Uluwatu.

Where to stay for solo travelers

The Bukit Peninsula draws surfers and beach lovers to its dramatic cliffs and world-class waves. For digital nomads and anyone seeking a more social scene, Canggu offers the perfect blend of work and play with its abundance of cafes and coworking spaces. Ubud remains the cultural heart of Bali, where solo travelers can immerse themselves in traditional arts and spirituality.

Types of accommodation

Accommodation options span from backpacker hostels to luxury villas. Most areas offer something for every budget, but homestays provide an especially authentic experience. Many guesthouses and boutique hotels cater specifically to solo travelers, with communal spaces and organized activities that make meeting people natural and easy.

Safety considerations for accommodation

When booking accommodation, prioritize locations with good lighting and easy access to main roads. Read recent reviews focusing on solo traveler experiences. Many places offer airport pickup services – worth considering for late-night arrivals. Look for accommodations with 24-hour reception and security, particularly in busier areas.

Getting around Bali

Navigating Bali’s diverse landscape requires a mix of transport options. While the island might seem compact, travel times can be lengthy due to traffic and winding roads. Most solo travelers mix and match transportation methods depending on their destination and comfort level.

Transport options

Renting a scooter offers the most freedom but requires confidence and experience. Grab (Southeast Asia’s Uber) provides reliable car service in most tourist areas. For longer journeys, private drivers can be hired by the day at reasonable rates. Many areas are walkable, but sidewalks aren’t always available.

Navigation tips

Download offline maps before arrival – Google Maps works well in Bali. Save key locations like your accommodation and favorite spots. Most locals speak some English and are happy to help with directions. Learn a few basic Indonesian phrases for navigation, and always carry your hotel’s business card.

Areas to avoid

While Bali is generally safe, some areas require extra caution, especially at night. Avoid isolated beaches after dark and be mindful in very touristy areas like Kuta late at night. Some rural roads can be hazardous for inexperienced drivers, particularly during the rainy season.

Meeting people in Bali

a pool party in Bali overlooking the sunset.

One of Bali’s greatest strengths for solo travelers is the ease of meeting others. The island attracts a diverse mix of travelers, expats and locals, creating numerous opportunities for meaningful connections.

Social activities and classes

Yoga classes, cooking workshops and cultural activities provide natural settings for meeting people. Many studios and centers offer drop-in classes perfect for solo travelers. Morning yoga sessions often lead to coffee dates, while evening workshops frequently end with group dinners.

Coworking spaces

Bali’s digital nomad scene centers around its coworking spaces, particularly in Canggu and Ubud. These hubs offer more than just workspaces – they’re communities hosting events, skill-sharing sessions and social gatherings. Many organize regular community events, from breakfast clubs to sunset sessions.

Surfcamps

Surfcamps offer an ideal way to meet fellow travelers while learning or improving your surf skills. Rapture Surfcamps, located on the Bukit Peninsula, provides both beginner lessons and advanced guidance. Our camps in Padang Padang and Green Bowl combine accommodation with daily surf sessions, creating a natural community of wave-seeking solo travelers.

Group tours and experiences

Joining organized tours can break up solo travel and provide instant companionship. Look for small-group options that focus on specific interests, from photography walks to temple tours. Many hostels and guesthouses organize group trips to popular sites, making it easy to join like-minded travelers.

What to do

Solo travel in Bali offers endless possibilities for both adventure and relaxation. The key is finding the right balance between structured activities and free time for spontaneous exploration.

Solo-friendly activities

Many activities cater well to solo travelers, from spa treatments to temple visits. Morning markets offer fascinating glimpses into local life, while beach clubs welcome singles with comfortable loungers and social atmospheres. Yoga studios typically attract solo practitioners, making them perfect for meeting others.

Cultural experiences

Ubud’s traditional dance performances and art galleries don’t require company to enjoy. Temple visits, particularly at quieter times, can be more meaningful alone. Many villages welcome visitors to observe traditional crafts like silver-making and wood carving.

Day trips

Popular day trips include sunrise hikes up Mount Batur, visits to the scenic rice terraces of Tegalalang, and temple-hopping along the coast. Many operators organize shared transport, making these adventures more affordable for solo travelers.

Surfing

Bali’s waves suit all levels, from complete beginners to experienced surfers. The Bukit Peninsula offers world-class breaks, while Canggu provides gentler waves perfect for learning. Many beaches have board rental and instruction available, making it easy to start your surfing journey.

Eating solo in Bali

Solo traveller in a yellow dress eating a Balinese meal.

Dining alone in Bali is a comfortable experience, with many venues offering counter seating or communal tables. Beach clubs and cafes often attract solo diners, particularly during breakfast and lunch hours. Most establishments welcome laptop workers, making them perfect for combining meals with catching up on work or travel planning.

Local warungs (family-run eateries) provide authentic, affordable meals in casual settings. Night markets offer the chance to sample various dishes while soaking in the atmosphere, and many hostels and hotels organize family-style dinners where solo travelers can share meals and stories.

Safety and practical tips

For a safe and smooth solo adventure in Bali, keep these essentials in mind:

Travel insurance is essential, as is being careful with street food and drinking water. Many solo travelers find it helpful to share their location with family or friends back home through apps like WhatsApp or Find My Friends.

Surfing in Bali

Bali’s reputation as a surf paradise is well-deserved, with waves suitable for every skill level year-round. The dry season (April to October) brings consistent swells and offshore winds to the Bukit Peninsula, while the wet season sees better conditions on the east coast.

The island’s surf culture creates natural opportunities for meeting people, whether you’re taking lessons, sharing waves, or swapping stories over sunset beers. Many beaches have their own communities of regulars, and joining them can provide insights into local life beyond tourism.

Your Bali solo adventure

Going solo in Bali opens doors to unexpected friendships, personal growth, and memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment in Ubud’s temples, catching waves in Uluwatu, or finding your tribe in Canggu’s creative community, the Island of the Gods welcomes solo travelers with open arms. Your solo adventure starts here.

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