Home to sweeping sandy beaches, beautiful temples and picture-perfect rice terraces: Bali is the ultimate island escape. First time visiting? We’ve got you covered. Editor Lucy Sara-Kelly picks our favourite things to do.

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Journey into Bali’s hinterland and you’ll be rewarded with the island’s most beautiful waterfalls. A short drive from Ubud, Tegenungan is one of the most popular falls on the island. But if you’re looking for more secluded views, head north. Hidden away in the jungle here is the peaceful Leke Leke, a narrow waterfall framed by verdant plants. Even further north is Sekumpul Waterfall, a cluster of six cascades tumbling dramatically down the cliffside. A trip here isn’t for the faint hearted though: prepare for a three-hour trek through wild bamboo forests and coffee plantations.

Bali is synonymous with beaches, and for good reason: this tropical island is packed with lovely sandy stretches. Secret coves, turquoise waters and stunning sunsets await on the Bukit Peninsula. Meanwhile, keen surfers can find incredible waves at beaches like Padang Padang and Uluwatu. For a real slice of paradise, hop on a boat to Nusa Penida. This tiny island off the coast of Bali features some spectacular sandy bays.

A trip to Bali isn’t complete without seeing some of the island’s temples. Two of the most sacred Hindu complexes, Pura Besakih and Pura Ulun Danu Batur, can be found on the east side of the island. Both feature a maze of shrines and towering gateways, plus epic views of the surrounding area. The intricate Gunung Kawi Royal Monuments, stone carved shrines overlooking the Pakerisan River, are also a must-visit.

Looking for a bit of R&R? You’ve come to the right place. Luxury spa resorts and beauty salons can be found across the island and offer a range of treatments, including traditional Balinese massages. Meditation classes and yoga sessions are also popular here. For the ultimate spa day, head to Maya Ubud Spa or Spa Alila.

Those keen on seeing some of the island’s wildlife can head to Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Over 1,000 Balinese long-tailed macaques roam freely around this conservation area, delighting visitors walking through the forest. The playful primates aren’t the only attraction though. The sanctuary is also home to dramatic carved bridges, draped in Banyan roots, and three Hindu temples.

Think of Bali and you probably picture the island’s renowned rice terraces. These sculptured stairways cover huge tracts of the mainland and employ centuries-old irrigation systems. The village of Tegallalang, not far from Ubud, has some of the most postcard-worthy terraces. Jatiluwih, a slightly less accessible area, also features stunning rice fields.

This little island is packed with delicious delights (and we’re not just talking about the açaí bowls). Ubud is your best bet for top-notch veggie and vegan cuisine. If you find yourself hungry in the south, try Jimbaran Bay for fresh fish or head to the foodie capital of Seminyak, which hosts an array of cool cafés, hip restaurants and fine dining spots. Before you leave Bali, be sure to try some jajan pasar (traditional Indonesian cakes), too.

Natural wonders may steal the show here, but don’t overlook Bali’s arts scene. A trip to an art market is a great way to see the island’s variety of local crafts. One of the largest is Kumbasari Art Market, in Denpasar. This warren of over 1,000 stalls is the perfect place for souvenir shopping. To see local arts in situ, you can visit Batubulan, Bali’s main centre of stone carving, or Mas, one of the island’s iconic woodcarving villages. For art galleries, head to Ubud.

Thought Bali was a tropical paradise? Just wait until you reach the Gili Islands. These three isles (just a boat ride away from Bali) are the epitome of idyllic. Buzzing bars and beach parties keep Gili Trawangan lively well into the night. Meanwhile, Gili Meno offers some of Indonesia’s best snorkelling spots. Take to the water here and you’ll see green turtles, huge Moray eels and brilliant blue coral reefs. Gili Air also has great snorkelling opportunities, as well as some gorgeous white sandy beaches.

For a truly unforgettable experience, hike Mount Batur. A trek up this active volcano typically takes between two and three hours, presenting spectacular views along the way. Tours usually begin before dawn (when temperatures are cooler) meaning visitors can watch the sunrise above the clouds at the peak. Not up for a hike? Relax in the geothermal hot springs at the foot of the volcano.

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