Bali With Kids: The Ultimate 2-Week Family Itinerary

We’ve been to Nusa Lembongan multiple times, and it never loses its charm. This quiet little island is a tropical gem – peaceful, beautiful, and full of warm, welcoming locals. It’s easy to get around by golf cart or scooter (if you’re feeling brave), and the vibe is much slower than the mainland. Lembongan is very well set up for families. You’ll find high chairs, baby cots, and other essentials at most places to stay – no need to pack the entire house. Just one thing to note: some of the roads and paths can be quite bumpy or sandy, so navigating with a stroller isn’t always easy. A baby carrier or sling might be a more practical choice for getting around.

The island is famous for one thing: snorkeling with manta rays. Spotting these gentle giants gliding through the water is pure magic – the kind of moment kids (and grown-ups) won’t stop talking about anytime soon. Just keep in mind: the sea here can be wild (and cold!), so this adventure is best for strong swimmers (or consider staying on the boat and spotting them from the surface). We’ve also been lucky enough to see dolphins on more than one occasion. Their sudden appearance turned an ordinary boat ride into an instant highlight – total magic for the little ones. For adults, the diving is next level. Vibrant coral, dramatic drop-offs, and if the season’s right, a chance to spot the elusive Mola Mola – a real bucket-list experience.

When hunger strikes, head to Ohana’s – a beautiful beachfront hangout with a laid-back vibe. The kids can splash in the pool or play in the sand while you enjoy a fresh coconut or a chilled cocktail. It’s one of the most family-friendly spots on the island.

Ubud is often called the cultural heart of Bali – and while it’s not the first place that comes to mind for families, it can actually be a great base if you plan things well. The center of town gets very busy, with narrow sidewalks and lots of traffic, so staying just outside the center (or in the surrounding rice field areas) is often a smarter, calmer choice for families with young kids.

One of our favorite outings was to the famous Tegallalang rice terraces. The views are stunning, and kids will love wandering the little paths and crossing bamboo bridges. Some areas can be steep or muddy, so a carrier for little ones comes in handy. The Campuhan Ridge Walk is another lovely option, especially in the early morning when it’s cool and quiet. It’s not ideal for strollers, but it’s manageable with a sling or backpack.

For a little splash time, head to Tegenungan Waterfall. You’ll need to tackle a decent set of stairs to get down, but the pool at the bottom is impressive and refreshing – perfect for a short stop on a hot day. A quieter, cultural option is Pura Tirta Empul. While it’s not an especially kid-focused attraction, the calm setting and gentle pace make it a good place to introduce children to local traditions. One place we wouldn’t recommend with young kids is the Monkey Forest. While it’s a well-known and popular stop, we personally didn’t enjoy it. The monkeys can be quite aggressive, and the crowded, noisy atmosphere made it feel overwhelming and not very child-friendly.

Lovina, in Bali’s quieter north, has a totally different vibe compared to the busy south. Things move slower here, and the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed. The beach itself is unique, with black volcanic sand – not the most charming, but definitely something different.
The big highlight? Dolphins. At sunrise, dozens of boats head out in search of these playful animals. It’s a popular activity, so you won’t be alone. A tip: go a bit later in the morning to avoid the busiest crowds. Our kids (then 1 and 3) absolutely loved watching the dolphins from the boat. Just make sure the boat has life jackets, especially for children – not every operator provides them.

The area around Lovina is full of lush jungle and waterfalls. Gitgit is well-known, but Sekumpul is our favorite. It’s a bit of a trek – think suspension bridges and jungle paths – but it’s worth it. It’s not stroller-friendly, so bring a carrier for little ones.
Nearby, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is a stunning lakeside temple. It’s not aimed at kids, but the wide grounds and playground make it surprisingly family-friendly.

If you have time, head west to Menjangan Island, part of Bali Barat National Park. It’s one of Bali’s best spots for snorkeling and diving, with calm water and colorful coral – ideal for confident swimmers.