Beyond the Beach: 3 Cultural Day Trips from Seminyak

While it is tempting to spend your entire holiday floating in the pool or sipping cocktails at a beach club, Bali offers a depth of culture that is unmatched in Southeast Asia. Seminyak is perfectly positioned as a base for exploring the island. Here are three day-trips that offer a glimpse into the spiritual and natural beauty of the “Island of the Gods.”

1. The Artistic Heart: Ubud

A mere hour (depending on traffic) north of Seminyak lies Ubud, the cultural capital. This is a must-visit for art lovers and nature enthusiasts. Start your morning at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where hundreds of macaques roam ancient stone temples. Afterward, explore the Traditional Art Market for handicrafts.

Don’t miss the Tegalalang Rice Terraces just north of the town center. The visual of emerald-green steps carved into the valley is iconic. For lunch, try the famous Babi Guling (suckling pig) at Ibu Oka, a local institution that has served royalty and celebrities alike.

2. The Cliffside Drama: Uluwatu

Drive south to the Bukit Peninsula to experience Uluwatu Temple. Perched on a steep cliff 70 meters above the roaring Indian Ocean, this sea temple is one of Bali’s spiritual pillars. The best time to visit is late afternoon.

Stick around for the Kecak Fire Dance, performed daily at sunset in an amphitheater nearby. There are no musical instruments; the rhythm is created by a chorus of dozens of men chanting “cak-cak-cak.” Watching this performance with the sun setting over the ocean behind the dancers is a spine-tingling experience you will never forget.

3. The Floating Temple: Tanah Lot

Head west to see Tanah Lot, a temple that sits on a rock formation just off the shore. At high tide, the temple is completely surrounded by water, making it appear to float. It is one of the most photographed sights in Indonesia for a reason.

While you cannot enter the temple grounds unless you are praying, the surrounding park offers incredible views. It is best to go on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds, and if you are feeling adventurous, try the local grilled corn sold by vendors along the cliff path—it is a sweet and spicy treat that pairs perfectly with the ocean breeze.