Bali with Kids: Our Guide to Your Bali Family Vacation
With its relaxed vibes, unique culture, world-class cuisine, fun surf scene, and incredible family-friendly resorts, Bali is the ideal location for a laidback family vacation. Bali is a unique part of this world, one that keeps luring travelers and surfers back over and over again. Luckily for families, it’s home to some amazing hotels, resorts, and companies that make traveling with kids a breeze.
Wondering how you’ll whip up purees for your baby while in paradise? Should you take the stroller or baby carrier?
If you’re after some elusive ‘me’ time or an extra set of hands to make your Bali family surf holiday vibes a little more relaxing, here’s a snapshot of the areas we love as a family, the services on offer, and fantastic places to eat, drink, play, stay, and surf with kids in tow.
LOCATIONS WE LOVE
CANGGU: A happening spot between Seminyak and Tanah Lot, Canggu has become a popular choice for families with its hip crowds, black sand beaches, colorful beachfront bars, spacious villas, and effortlessly cute shops. Expats and families also flock to Canggu for its kid-friendly hotels and oodles of entertainment options for little ones. And it’s one of the few areas surrounded by luscious rice fields as well as beaches!
SEMINYAK: If you’re traveling as a family, both Seminyak and nearby Legian exude laidback vibes and offer loads of activities and dining options for the kids to enjoy. Sprinkled with a treasure trove of upmarket shops, international surf outlets, designer boutiques, and homeware gems (Jalan Oberoi), Seminyak is known as the fancier cousin to Legian (or the ‘Noosa’ of Bali). All the resorts and hotels are close to the beach, which is great when you’ve got the whole tribe in tow. Hop down the vibrant Eat Street (Jalan Laksmana), shop to your heart’s content, and marvel at the famous beach sunsets.
LEGIAN: Legian is wedged between Seminyak and Kuta and offers a little more value for money. Yummy food, great shops, and lots of activities to enjoy (without the chaos of Kuta), there’s a good reason holidaying families keep returning to Legian. Both places are perfect for a holiday with kids, peppered with traditional art markets, restaurants, cafes, and shops galore right near the beach.
BUKIT PENINSULA (ULUWATU & BINGIN): The laidback Bukit Peninsula has a host of funky bars and cafes, epic waves that attract surfers from all around the globe, sheer limestone cliffs, and beautiful white sandy beaches for the kids to roam and explore. It's also home to some of the island's most beautiful luxury resorts. It doesn’t get the traffic of some other busy Balinese locales, and there’s an endless selection of yoga classes to choose from.
SERVICES TO HELP YOU TRAVEL LIGHT AND STRESS-FREE
NANNIES & BABYSITTERS: Nanny services can also be organized through your hotel or resort upon arrival or through one of the many Bali babysitting/nanny companies that serve the island. Costs are reasonable, and I highly recommend adding this service to your trip. Whether you are longing for some adult time or just need a second set of eyes to watch over the kids while they swim in the pool, having a nanny is a wonderful way to help you unwind and settle into the Bali way of life.
BABY FOOD IN BALI: Zero Waste Bali, previously Mini Muncher, provides organic, wholesome meals for babies, toddlers, and kids with a delivery service straight to your hotel. You can pre-order online and have meals ready for your arrival. Food is prepared in a commercial kitchen using purified water, ensuring it’s safe for little ones. Find out more HERE: [link to Zero Waste Bali website].
BABY EQUIPMENT RENTAL: Bali Baby hires out every kind of apparatus you could possibly need on your family surf holiday, from strollers to baby baths and toys. Book airport transfers with baby seats or pre-purchase nappies and formula for your arrival. And for anyone who has ever worried about renting a villa and kids falling into open plunge pools (every parent's concern), Bali Baby offers pool fences that are not only fitted with Australian Magna locks for your family’s safety but also blend in with your villa’s natural surroundings. They are made of bamboo and installed without causing damage to the area. You could also look at Bali Bubs & Hire Pool Fence Bali as well.
PLACES TO EAT + DRINK - CHILD FRIENDLY
SEMINYAK
POTATO HEAD: This iconic beach club is a great option for families who want to spend a day by the pool. There's a dedicated kids' club with activities and games, as well as a shallow pool for little ones. Parents can relax on a sun lounger and enjoy the view.
KUDETA: This beachfront restaurant is a Seminyak institution. Every Sunday, KuDeTa transforms into a family-friendly oasis with kids' activities, a fantastic infinity pool, and a special kids' menu.
LA PLANCHA: This lively beachside restaurant is a great spot for families to enjoy a sunset meal. Kids can play in the sand while parents watch the surfers and enjoy the view. The menu has something for everyone, from burgers and pizzas to fresh seafood.
MAD POPS: Next to Drifter surf shop, Mad Pops is the stop to head if you want to satisfy the sweet tooths in your clan. Famous for their dairy-free artisanal ice pops made from locally sourced organic fruits, you can pick from 15+ flavors of ice cream. Take a fun snap in front of the popular neon sign and pastel pink backdrop while you lick it all up. What more could you want on a family surf holiday? @madpopsbali
CANGGU
MILK & MADU: This super kid-friendly cafe located in Canggu has a vibe, wonderful food and even a fab playhouse for the kids. Follow them on Instagram (along with 70K others!) for the kids’ arts and crafts schedule. They also have a location in Berawa, Ubud and coming soon to Uluwatu. @milkandmadu
LA BRISA: This beach club is a great option for families who want to spend a day at the beach. Kids can splash around in the pool, while parents can relax on a sun lounger.
THE SLOW: This eco-conscious cafe is a great option for families looking for healthy and delicious food. They have a large outdoor area with seating, perfect for kids to run around.
ULUWATU
MANA: Tucked away within the Uluwatu Surf Villas, Mana offers a laid-back dining experience with breathtaking ocean views. Specializing in modern European cuisine with a touch of Asian flair, the restaurant crafts its dishes from locally sourced ingredients, bursting with vibrant flavors. @manauluwatu
OURS: Hidden among the lush foliage of Uluwatu, Ours Restaurant invites guests to unwind in a tranquil dining setting. Embracing sustainable and organic dining, the menu draws inspiration from Balinese traditions and international tastes, promising a relaxed and flavorsome culinary journey. @oursbali
DRIFTER: Drifter is a relaxed cafe serving up hearty meals and refreshing drinks in a relaxed ambiance. With its surf-inspired decor and welcoming staff, the cafe radiates a laid-back vibe. From Western classics to Indonesian delights, the menu offers something for everyone to savor while enjoying the easygoing atmosphere of Uluwatu. Whether you're catching waves or simply soaking up the vibe, Drifter Cafe is the ultimate spot to kick back and recharge. @driftersurfshop
THE CASHEW TREE: This breezy, family-friendly cafe with a kids' playground and pavilion is a lifesaver for parents. Their menu offers scrumptious healthy and organic options, perfect for both adults and youngsters. They are located just a stone's throw from the clifftop of Bingin. @thecashewtree.collective
KELLY’S WARUNG: Tucked right into the bottom of the cliffs at Bingin, Kelly's Warung is a local favorite. Their casual atmosphere and delicious menu, including pizzas and burgers, will surely please everyone in the family. @kellyswarung
FUN BEGINNER FRIENDLY SURF BREAKS IN BALI
Bali is a paradise for surfers of all levels, with plenty of beginner-friendly breaks to choose from. Here are a few of the best spots:
LEGIAN – IN FRONT OF THE JAYAKARTA RESORT
Legian is a great place to learn to surf, with gentle waves and plenty of surf schools. This has been a favorite surf spot of ours for years. The break in front of the Jayakarta Resort is particularly fun for beginners and even seasoned surfers who are looking for a fun beach break.
After your surf it is a great area to hang on the beach for sunset Bintangs.
CANGGU
Canggu is another popular spot for beginners, with a number of beginner-friendly breaks. Old Man’s is the pick for easy waves in Canggu. Old Man’s is a mellow right-hander that is slow, fat and fun for the whole family. The wave breaks over a lava reef but unless you think you will be spending lot of time on the bottom of the ocean it shouldn't be a problem.
Batu Bolong is another popular option, with slightly larger waves that are still manageable for beginners.
PADANG PADANG
Padang Padang is a world-famous surf spot known as The Balinese pipeline. While Padang Padang’s famous left might be only for advanced surfers, the break is also home to a beginner-friendly right (inside or baby Padang Padang) which breaks in front of the beach. It’s a mellow wave great for beginners and fun for surfers not up for the challenge of taking on Padangs barrelling left.
There are steep steps that lead you down to the beach and like most beaches in Bali you can expect plenty of vendors offering cold drinks and ice cream once you are down there.
BINGIN
Bingin is a little harder to get to but is worth the trek. On a high tide and small swell this left can be a fun introduction to reef breaks for beginners so pack your reef booties.
While the beach at Bingin is narrow and a little rocky it is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Bali. You will need to walk the windy trail down the cliff to get to the beach but it is well worth the effort. If you are looking for somewhere to eat and drink while watching the surf head to Kelly’s Warung. It has been around for decades and the best spot on the beach.
BALI’S BEST LUXURY RESORTS
CANGGU
COMO Uma Canggu
Another amazing beachfront resort and surfer’s paradise that will linger in your heart with incredible waves and sophisticated style in spades.
Recommended Room:
The Uma pool residences on the ground floor have their own private pool, with plenty of space to unwind and there’s a range of two bedroom residences, overlooking the Indian ocean or lagoon to choose from. The light airy kitchenettes make it easy to whip up some snacks for toddlers.
Facilities:
Babysitting services are available as well as access to the ‘Play by COMO Space’ kids’ club where purposeful and creative child-directed play is openly encouraged (open to kids aged 4 to 12).
Fun and frolic is on offer for everyone with a library, imaginative play areas, toys and games galore and a cool arts and crafts space.
The Play Space is open daily between 9.00am and 6.00pm. Toddlers under four must be accompanied by a babysitter or parent at all times.
Seminyak
Alila Seminyak
Designed by Gaurang Khemka at the award-winning Singapore architectural firm URBNarc, this unique resort is a distinctive blend of contemporary architecture woven through with vertical greens, wall-hugging plants, green roofs and landscaped terraces designed to enliven the senses.
A modern, five-star oasis with all the perks for the adults and lots of extra-curricular activities for your tinies and teens to enjoy, the stunning Alila Seminyak is situated in a prime beachfront position.
Your kids can splash around and make sandcastles in the sun or simply swim in one of the multiple swimming pools on offer (including five infinity pools) at this incredibly luxe hotel.
Facilities:
There’s an elaborate kids’ menu (and one for babies too) and babysitting services upon request. The fancy kids’ club, Play Alila, is stocked with games, puzzles, toys, craft and book supplies to keep them entertained all day long.
Fun features include elevated wooden platforms to run around in, DVDs for rental, a slide and a delightful rocking horse as well as a range of activities on the hour: treasure hunts, puppet making, bowling, food painting, storytelling, kite making and more.
The older ones will appreciate the computers, TVs and Xbox thrown in for good measure but hopefully they’ll be too busy enjoying the sand and surf for too much screen time! Open from 7:00am to 9:00pm, this is truly one of the best kids’ clubs around.
Complimentary yoga classes, direct beachfront access, the elegant Spa Alila, an adults-only pool and delicious, healthy dining options will keep the parents happy around the clock.
And if you fancy a night out, the hip beach club, Potato head, is right next door and the stylish Seminyak boutiques, restaurants and cafes are close by. Just book the babysitter and you’re good to go.
ALILA SEMINYAK Preferred Partner Perks when booking with SARAH PAYNE TRAVEL:
• Welcome amenity provided to guests upon arrival.
• Daily complimentary full breakfast at a hotel restaurant for up to two guests.
• Resort credit.
• Priority for room upgrade subject to forecasted occupancy.
• Early check-in/late check-out/connecting rooms subject to availability.
Uluwatu
Six Senses Uluwatu
Six Senses Uluwatu is a luxurious clifftop resort in Bali, offering breathtaking Indian Ocean views and a seamless blend of Balinese tradition with modern, eco-conscious practices. Each private suite or villa boasts stunning panoramas, some even visible from personal pools and bathtubs. Beyond the scenery, there's a world of indulgence: explore your culinary side at one of the three restaurants, unwind at the spa, or take a dip in one of the infinity pools. Yoga, fitness facilities, and water sports cater to the active, while cultural tours and classes immerse you in local life. Adventurers can explore nearby beaches, perfect for surfing, or sacred temples.
Six Senses Uluwatu isn't just for adults. The "Grow With Six Senses" program keeps young guests entertained, emphasizing well-rounded fun through activities that touch on the six dimensions of wellness. From active pursuits like swimming and cooking classes to relaxing yoga and creative endeavors like upcycling workshops and painting with a local touch, there's something for every kid. A dedicated children's pool provides a safe space for splashing, and babysitting services allow parents some well-deserved relaxation time.
UBUD
Capella Ubud
Immerse yourself in the heart of Ubud's lush rainforests at Capella Ubud, Bali. This unique tented camp isn't your average hotel. Inspired by the spirit of adventure, architect Bill Bensley designed Capella Ubud as a luxurious tribute to early explorers. Nestled amidst rice paddies, the sacred Wos River, and the charming Balinese artist village of Keliki, the camp offers a hidden sanctuary for those seeking an unforgettable experience.
Capella Ubud caters more towards adventurous adults and older children (typically above 6 years old). While they don't have a dedicated children's club, the unique rainforest setting and emphasis on exploration can be a perfect fit for nature-loving youngsters. Imagine waking up to the sounds of exotic birds, embarking on guided hikes through the rainforest with your family, or learning about the local ecosystem together. The spacious one and two-bedroom tents provide ample space for families to spread out, and each one boasts a private plunge pool for ultimate relaxation. Nature enthusiasts of all ages will love the chance to explore the surrounding rice paddies and observe the diverse wildlife. However, it's important to note that Capella Ubud itself acknowledges that the uneven terrain and lack of a dedicated kids club might not be ideal for younger children or those who require constant supervision.
For those seeking a luxurious escape with an adventurous twist, Capella Ubud offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Unwind on your oversized daybed with a steaming cup of coffee, taking in the sights and sounds of the rainforest just outside your deck. For an added touch of luxury, all guests enjoy exclusive access to the "Officer's Tent," a sophisticated communal living room, and the personalized service of a Capella Culturist available around the clock.
Capella Ubud Preferred Partner Perks when booking with SARAH PAYNE TRAVEL:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability.
Daily Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining.
Complimentary 50-minute massage for up to two people, once during stay.
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability.
Complimentary Wi-Fi.
After two decades of exploring Bali, both with my family and with my ‘now’ husband, I've witnessed its evolution firsthand. Yet, amidst the changes, Bali has retained its allure, continuously drawing travelers back with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere. As a travel advisor with a deep passion for this incredible destination, I'm eager to share my expertise and help others plan their own unforgettable Bali family vacations.
From the bustling streets of Canggu to the serene shores of Uluwatu, Bali offers a myriad of experiences for families. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the pool or thrilling surf adventures, there's something for everyone on this enchanting island.
So, whether you're dreaming of lazy days on the beach or embarking on cultural adventures, let me be your guide to crafting the perfect Bali family getaway. Together, we'll ensure your journey is filled with joy, relaxation, and unforgettable moments amidst the beauty of Bali. Get in touch, and let's turn your Bali dreams into reality.
