5 Underrated Summer Activities in Bali You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner

Bali’s beach clubs and temples are fine, but let’s be real: the island’s best moments happen far from the crowds. These five underrated summer adventures give you breathtaking views, cultural depth, and actual peace while everyone else lines up for the same Instagram shot.

Activities at a Glance

1. Create Your Own Adventure with The Shivanna

Why it’s special: Because nothing screams freedom like sailing your own private yacht across turquoise waters.

Imagine this: just you, a dedicated crew, and an entire catamaran cutting through the Indian Ocean. No tour guides rushing you, no strangers photobombing your sunset selfies. When you rent a private yacht from Benoa or Serangan, you get Bali from a whole new perspective hidden coves, snorkeling reefs, and uninterrupted horizon views.

And when you want that experience elevated, The Shivanna steps in. This luxury yacht isn’t just transportation; it’s a floating stage for unforgettable moments, from intimate celebrations to once-in-a-lifetime escapes.

Tips:

• Book early for summer weekends.
• Best time is midday into sunset for golden skies.
• Great for groups (splitting the cost makes it surprisingly affordable).

2. Sunrise Trek on Bukit Cinta, Karangasem

Why it’s special: An iconic sunrise spot where Bali’s sacred volcano, Mount Agung, takes center stage.

Bukit Cinta, literally translating to Hill of Love, offers one of the most breathtaking dawn panoramas in East Bali. As the first light breaks, the rice fields below turn golden, and Mount Agung rises dramatically against the morning sky. Unlike Mount Batur, there’s no strenuous hike here, just a short uphill stroll to a natural viewpoint that locals often visit but tourists rarely find.

Tips:

• Arrive before sunrise to watch the landscape slowly transform in the soft morning glow for that picture perfect moment. 
• Bring a blanket or jacket. The mornings can be surprisingly cool.
• No guide is necessary, but arranging transport in advance makes the early start much smoother.

3. Wander Taman Ujung Like Royalty

Why it’s special: A forgotten palace where East Bali’s history still whispers.

This water palace blends Balinese craftsmanship with European design, and the result is pure magic stone bridges curving over reflective pools, mountain-framed pavilions that look ripped from a painting. Few tourists make it out here, which means you can soak it in quietly, without the shuffle of selfie sticks around you.

Tips:

• Visit between 4–6 PM for cinematic golden-hour photos.
• Located in Karangasem, East Bali (about 2.5 hours from Ubud).
• Great for couples, photographers, and history buffs.

4. Get Lost in East Bali’s Marigold Mountains

Why it’s special: A flower field that’s both breathtaking and sacred.

Forget tulips in Amsterdam! Bali’s marigold fields roll out carpets of blazing orange across the hills. These blooms aren’t just for show; they’re central to daily temple offerings. Wander through the fields, chat with farmers, and you’ll quickly realize this is the kind of authentic Bali that tour buses never reach.

Tips:

• Best season: July–September (peak bloom).
• Wear proper shoes the fields can get muddy.
• Always be respectful, since the flowers are used for rituals.

5. Learn Real Skills with Traditional Workshops

Why it’s special: This is culture you do, not just watch.

Bali’s artisan workshops aren’t cookie-cutter souvenir factories. They’re deep dives into centuries-old crafts passed down through families. You might weave palm-leaf offerings used in daily prayers, paint batik with natural dyes, or even try making your own jewelry at Ubud Bali Silver or printing your own batik at Threads of Life. Whatever your pick, you leave with both a handmade piece and a story worth telling.

Tips:

• Look for workshops in Ubud, Sidemen, or Karangasem.
• Year-round activity, but book in advance during summer.

FAQs 

Are these activities suitable for solo travelers in Bali?
Yes especially the Sunda Hill hike, workshops, and Taman Ujung. Yacht rentals are better with a group.

How do I book a local artisan workshop in advance?
Check with community co-ops in Ubud (like Threads of Life) or online platforms that support local artisans.

Can I visit these places without a guide?
Yes, but a guide is recommended for Sunda Hill and cultural workshops for deeper insights.

Is a yacht rental affordable for small groups?
Definitely! At The Shivanna, packages are designed with flexibility in mind whether it’s an intimate day cruise with your family, a company outing, or a small group of friends looking for an underrated summer activity in Bali!