Hidden Gems in Bali That Tourists Completely Miss: Your Ultimate Guide
How much does a trip to Bali cost? Finding undiscovered spots in Bali is becoming increasingly challenging. Most people head to the crowded rice terraces in Ubud or the busy cliffs in Uluwatu. Secluded waterfalls and quiet beaches remain ignored, even though they’re only a few miles away.
In this guide, I share five still quiet locations that you can visit in Bali in 2025. These hidden locations provide the true island experience you’re after, and, best of all, you won’t have to deal with tour buses or people waiting to take a selfie.
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Discovering Hidden Gems in Bali: How I Found These Secret Spots (By Getting Completely Lost)
I’ve traveled to fifteen countries, all while keeping my costs low, and my fourth stop was Bali. I had my mind set on the typical plan, which included the Ubud rice terraces, Uluwatu for the sunset, and a Bintang beer afterwards to complete the day.
All of that changed on the third day of my trip.
While riding my scooter, I accidentally took a wrong turn, which led me to a less crowded part of Tegallalang. After a while, the off-paved dirt road with the gentle warm air filled with the smell of frangipani showed me the way to a small roadside warung and a grandma who spoke no English but still communicated quite well.
I drank her iced coffee for 50 cents and still remember her gentle smile and the way she pointed with her fist to a path, which I can only assume was meant to reassure me.
That path led me to a different kind of waterfall, the sort of waterfall Google wouldn’t tell you about. I was all by myself, and I was free. I remember all the whispers in my mind, and I thought, “If I can miss this in Bali, how many more are waiting to be discovered?”
From this, I gathered five secret gems.
While Bali is known for its busy tourist traffic, these locations are an exception. Here, you are able to see the real, untouched Bali and the peaceful charm it has to offer.
⚠️ Important Update (Critical): Due to the popularity of social media, hidden gems don’t stay hidden for long. Some of the places in this guide (Tukad Cepung, for example) have blown up since I first discovered them. What was empty three years ago now sees consistent tourist traffic. That said, timing is everything. Arrive on weekdays before 8 am, and you will experience these places in relative peace. For weekends and late mornings, expect the same crowds you would experience in the well-known locations.
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1. Tukad Cepung Waterfall – The Magical Light-Beam Cave Hidden Gem in Bali
Why Tukad Cepung is unique amongst the hidden secrets in Bali.
There is a river flowing through a natural cave. At around 9 a.m. the sun breaks through the roof of the cave. This produces a spectacular laser-beam effect that photographers would wish to have.
That is a secret treasure in Bali, offering something truly special. The walls of the cave are shaped like a cathedral, which amplifies any sound. The droplets of water glitter like sunshine diamonds. It is a supernatural feeling that I have never experienced at any other waterfall on the island.
Why This Spot Stayed Hidden (Until Recently)
It takes a 15-minute drive beyond the sign of the last rice terrace. Then you will have to walk 20 minutes in water up to the knee. Upon seeing the water, most of the tourists retreat.
The expedition itself sieves out the sightseers. You will cross a little river canyon. Rocks are covered with mosses on your way. It builds up as each step gets deeper into the jungle.
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2025 Reality Check (Important!)
This spot is no longer “hidden.” Tukad Cepung is now one of the most Instagrammable places in Bali. According to travel websites such as TripAdvisor, it is very popular, particularly during the time between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Tour operators now include it on their itineraries.
The swimming myth: The previous versions of this guide referred to swimming. That’s incorrect. The water in the lower part is not even deep enough to swim in. The cave can be approached by wading in water up to the knees. Then you will be under the cool spray of the falls. Consider cooling off, not taking a dip.
Can you still enjoy it? Sure—unless you play it just so strategically, you know.
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Insider Tips for Visiting This Hidden Gem
Best time: How much does it cost to go to Bali? Arrive between 7:00 and 7:45 a.m. on weekdays—this is CRITICAL (gates open around 7:00 a.m.)
Why so early? By 9:00 a.m. on any day, expect 20-50 other visitors waiting for photos
Worst times: Weekends (packed all day), weekdays after 9:00 a.m., Indonesian public holidays
What to wear: Water shoes are essential for the slippery rocks and river walk
What to bring: Waterproof phone case or dry bag, small towel
Entry fee: Approximately 20,000-30,000 IDR ($1.30-$2)
Parking: Additional 5,000 IDR for scooters
Pro tip from locals: If you arrive and see more than 10 scooters in the parking area, it’s already crowded Consider visiting a different location and returning the next morning at an earlier time.
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2. Sangeh Monkey Forest – The Peaceful Alternative Hidden Gem
Get out of the Monkey Forest Melee in Ubud.
In this idyllic forest grove giant nutmeg trees lift their heads. These primates are actually shy, unlike the notorious monkeys of Ubud. Here you will not be afraid of stolen sunglasses or cameras.
This is a secretive Bali that is serene rather than bustling. The canopy is penetrated by the golden shafts of sunlight. The sounds of tourists are substituted with bird songs. It is the kind of air that encourages meditation and walks.
The reason why this sacred forest is totally missed by the tourists.
Ubud Monkey Forest is the central location everybody goes to. In the meantime Sangeh is quietly seated 30 minutes northwest. In addition, it also gets a share of the visitors.
Its absence in most itineraries is due to the lack of aggressive marketing. There are no Instagram influencers hanging around this place every day. Tour buses seldom make the detour.
What you will find in this little secret.
There is a 400-year-old mossy temple tree in the forest. This is a place where local villagers pray on a daily basis. It has an air of sanctity and lacks commercialism.
This mystical location is enclosed in ancient Balinese legends. Among the large tree roots are stone temples. The power of it is unlike commercial attractions.
Visiting Tips
Best time: cost of trip to Bali morning (8:00-10:00 a.m.) for the softest light and fewer visitors
Local guide: Hire one for $3—they’ll share fascinating cultural stories and legends
What to expect: Peaceful walks, gentle monkeys, ancient spiritual sites
Entry fee: Around 20,000 IDR ($1.30)
Dress code: Sarong required for temple areas (rental available on-site)
3. Bukit Belibis Viewpoint – The Secret Peninsula That Tourists Miss
Unfiltered, Rude Bali in This Secret Gem.
This perspective provides 360-degree views of the ocean, including dramatic cliffs. Wild grass is waving in the seawind. There is no safety rail here—raw, untamed Bali.
This isolation produces a religious kind of feeling. You will hear no more than waves crashing along the shore and wind whistling by. This little secret in Bali pays off to adventurous souls with things that are unmatched.
The Difficulty of Discovering This Hideyoke Sporter.
To get to this point, you simply must have a scooter. An offline map is very essential since there is no cell signal. Also, you will not see signs and ticket booths.
It is beautifully empty due to the shortage of infrastructure. The majority of the tourists favor easily accessible, well-marked tourist attraction spots. Their loss becomes your gain.
Visitors should always have a safe time at this hidden gem.
This spot is not for everyone. The precipices plunge down to the sea. Hence, be careful of your footing. Similarly, do not use the edges when it is windy or wet.
Bring a friend when you can. The distant place implies that aid is not close at hand. Visits to the sunset must be timely so that they can get back to the sunset before it gets late.
Planning Your Visit
Best time: Arrive around 4:00 p.m. for golden hour photography
Must bring: Downloaded offline maps, water, small picnic, fully charged phone
Phone signal: Dies completely—download maps beforehand
Entry fee: Free (no facilities or staff)
Safety gear: Closed-toe shoes with good grip essential
Not recommended for: Young children, those afraid of heights, rainy days
4 _ Tirta Gangga's Hidden Back Pools – The Secret Garden Tourists Miss
Out of the Famous Front Garden.
Everyone has heard about the famous front fountain of Tirta Gangga. Nevertheless, there are two pools concealed at the back of the entrance. Here great koi fish swim under old stepping stones. Amazingly, very few people walk back there.
And these are the secrets in the midst of a popular attraction that promise unexpected privacy. The back gardens are an exclusive royal retreat. The air is filled with tropical perfumes, and background music is calming the amazing mountains.
The reason why this section is totally overlooked by tour groups.
Tour buses come and pull up at the initial photogenic fountain. Snapshots of Instagram images take 10 minutes. Then they are off to the next stop on their lists.
It requires effort on the walk to the back pools, which most tourists will not take. It involves using stairs and going through winding paths. The majority of the visitors believe that all they need to see is the front fountain.
The Secret Fountain Hypersensitive.
Go round the entire back. You will find a secret waterfall, which is another natural slide played by local children. It is a hidden garden.
Carvings and statues of stone can be found just in unusual places. The architecture narrates the story of the royalty of Bali. Wander along in every direction.
Visitor Information
Best time: Early morning (7:00-8:00 a.m.) before tour buses arrive
Extra tip: Pay the additional 10,000 IDR (70 cents) to rent a sarong for temple areas
What to explore: The full loop takes 30-45 minutes at a relaxed pace
Main entry fee: Around 50,000 IDR ($3.30)
Photo opportunities: Stepping stones with koi, hidden fountains, ornate gates
Facilities: Restrooms and small café near entrance
5. Yeh Leh Beach – The Otherworldly Rock-Stack Coast Hidden Gem
A Beach Like No Other in Bali
This is a mysterious coastline that is covered by black volcanic sand. The beach is covered with smooth boulders in artistic forms. They put these rocks in a pile to get good fortune and spiritual blessings. Frankly speaking you feel as though you were on a different planet. It is rather Iceland than tropical Bali. This untapped treasure provides scenery of a very different type as compared to the usual beach post cards.
The Turn-Off Everyone Misses
Yeh Leh is located in between two renowned surf beaches. The turn-off however looks like an entrance to a construction site. The majority of the drivers pass at an excessive speed.
This is a hidden gem that is not advertised in Bali. The dirt road has no sign, and that scares away inquisitive tourists. It is only known by locals and well-informed travelers.
Tide Timing Matters
Go on a low tide day to have a good time. Many of the rock formations are covered under high tide. Look at any surf forecast app to see the tide times.
A low tide exposes tidal pools containing little fish and sea life. The bare rocks form natural sculptures that are worth taking photographs of. The experience is totally different with correct timing of your visit.
The things to know about this secret beach.
Best time: Low tide (consult tide charts) and sunset to take pictures.
What to carry: Picnic food and beverages (no warungs or facilities)
Hobbies: Stacking rocks, meditation, photography, tidal pools.
Admission fee: Free (there is no one to collect money here)
Parking: Unofficial parking lot with access to the beach.
Note: Leave no rubbish in—have this jewel of a secret clean.
Bonus Discovery: My "Grandma Warung" – The Best Hidden Gem
The Wonderful Dinner You will Never Get in Guidebooks.
I also do not know how to spell the official name. So I just refer to it as Grandma’s. It is a local secret within Bali and offers the most authentic local food ever.
GPS coordinates: 8.4321° S, 115.2789° E
She is a servant of the best chicken satay I have ever had. The peanut sauce reminds me of the crushed cookies with spicy, savory flavor. Say to her that Katie sent you, and she will laugh. then she will send you off on the silent path to that unnamed waterfall.
Why This Warung Stays Hidden
No English menu exists here. The building resembles the home of a person (since it is). Tour buses would never come down the narrow access road.
The charges are so ridiculous since the prices are never discovered by the tourists. Grandma does not make tourist prices. She treats all of them as her family who came to have lunch.
What to Order
Recommended: Chicken satay with peanut sauce (10,000 IDR)
Also good: Nasi goreng, fresh fruit juice, homemade coconut cakes
Payment: Cash Only, carry little bills.
Time: Opens approximately at 10 a.m., closes when food is no more (typically, at 3 p.m.)
Critical hacks to discover the Bali gems that tourists overlook.
Scooter Navigation Plan.
It saves an offline copy of Google Maps before going offline. Green lines denote small roads and paths. Yellow and white lines depict main tourist routes.
Record important GPS locations when connected to the internet. Take screenshots of distant places. Outside tourist areas, the phone signal quickly disappears.
Cash is King at Hidden Gems
Carry small denominations (10,000-20,000 IDR notes). Card readers or mobile payments will hardly be found in hidden spots. There are even places where there is no one to collect entrance fees.
In rural regions, ATMs are eliminated. Take enough money in town to spend a complete day out exploring. It is always better to have too much than too little.
Dress Code Matters
Bring a sarong with you in a day bag. They need them to enter the temples. Certain waterfalls and holy places are also likely to require modest coverage. Waterfall hikes are best suited for quick-dry clothing. Bring an extra shirt in case you need to wade through water. Adhere to local practices.
Timing Strategy (Read This Carefully!)
Begin your expeditions in the morning—and I do mean in the morning. Previously unseen (or so secret) places are now accessible from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m. on mornings and a.m. on weekdays. On weekends a crowd is even earlier, as they arrive as early as around 8:00 a.m.
Social media has reduced the lifespan of discovered gems by a very large magnitude. A non-descriptive waterfall may become an Instagram place of destination in a few months. Thus, the 7:00-8:00 a.m. arrival time is not a recommendation anymore but a prerequisite of a relaxing experience.
Reality check: Just as you are not a morning person, you will be sharing these spots with 20-100 other visitors. It is better than the Tegallalang Rice Terraces (with thousands of visitors), but it does not have the alone-in-paradise sensation anymore.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hidden Gems in Bali
Can you come to these hidden gems in Bali alone?
Yes, I am 5 ft. two in., and I have explored Bali alone. I did not feel insecure about any of these places. That being acknowledged
It is generally better to travel during the day. Wear a helmet on your scooter. Take common sense regarding the weather and slippery floors.
Remote sites imply the delay of emergency response. Where are you going?
Tell your hotel. Have a phone charged up with downloaded offline maps.
Am I required to have an instructor for these hidden locations?
Tukad Cepung is the only one that requires a guide (due to the slippery riverbed navigation). Sangeh has optional guides available for $3—they pay to learn about the culture. The text can be rewritten as “It can be easily explored.” Using Google Maps.
Guides bring about cultural background and security. Finding these hidden gems on your own is an experience to treasure.
What are the entry fees for these gems?
The prices of all places are below 20,000 IDR (approximately 1.30 USD). Certain areas, such as Yeh Leh Beach, are totally free. There is no one there to collect money.
At any rate, bring change. The ticket booths are unable to break huge bills (100,000 IDR notes).
Can I swim at every waterfall?
Tukad Cepung does not allow swimming as it is too shallow. The nearby waterfall next to the grandmother’s warung is perfect for swimming. The water levels should be checked first before going in.
Strong currents and water levels are introduced during the rainy season. It is advisable to avoid swimming when the water looks rough or muddy.
What can I see in one day, specifically some of the lesser-known attractions?
Do not attempt to survey all. Select one geographical area (eastern or northern). Excessive overcrowding of the places results in scooter fatigue and hurried experiences.
I was able to visit Tukad Cepung, Grandma’s Warung, and the secret waterfall in one stress-free day. Good rather than large quantities results in superior memories and photographs.
What happens in case it rains when I come to these secret places?
Soon, the dirt roads become slippery mud. Buy a cheap rain poncho at any convenience store for $1. Delays in climbing steep ascents, like Bukit Belibis, occur because wet weather increases the risk.
Check the weather forecasts before leaving. Rain showers are a usual occurrence in Bali during the afternoon. Morning visits are preferable to the crowds and the weather.
What is the congestion of these sites in comparison to the popular locations?
Very empty, even compared to places like the Tegallalang Rice Terraces or Tanah Lot. Nevertheless, the so-called hidden gems are revealed with time. Visiting in the early mornings and on weekdays is the most likely to have places almost to oneself.
Tukad Cepung has entered mainstream tourism. The remaining four situations are really silent and on time.
Can we commute to these off-road locations using a scooter?
The roads are a choice of both paved highways and dirt paths. If you are not comfortable with a scooter, consider hiring a car driver. Most locals offer this service for $40-$50 per day.
One common incident that tourists face is a scooter accident. Always ensure you wear a helmet for your safety. Drive carefully and be on the lookout for potholes, loose gravel, and straying dogs.
Bali Travel Cost FAQs
Q: How much does it cost to go to Bali? A: Total trip cost ranges from $500 to $2,000+, depending on travel style, duration, and flight origin.
Q: How expensive is it to go to Bali? A: Bali is affordable compared to Western countries. Budget travelers can manage on $25-50/day, while mid-range travelers spend $75-150/day.
Q: What’s the average cost of a trip to Bali? A: Most travelers spend $75-100/day, including accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Flights add $300-1,500+, depending on your location.
Q: How much does Bali cost per day? A:
- Budget: $25-50/day
- Mid-range: $75-150/day
- Luxury: $200+/day
Q: What’s the cost for 5 days in Bali? A:
- Budget: $125-250
- Mid-range: $375-750
- Luxury: $1,000-1,500+ (Excluding flights)
Q: What are the main expenses in Bali? A: Accommodation ($10-150/night), food ($5-40/day), transport ($5-20/day), activities ($10-50/day), and international flights.
Q: How can I save money in Bali? A: Eat at local warungs, rent a scooter, stay in guesthouses, visit free beaches/temples, and book tours directly.
Instagram-Worthy Photos at These Hidden Gems in Bali
Photo Opportunities That Will Make Your Friends Jealous
- Sunbeam inside Tukad Cepung cave – Time it perfectly around 9:00 a.m. for that viral shot
- Monkey on your shoulder at Sangeh—These monkeys are gentle and curious (unlike Ubud)
- Cliff selfie with dual ocean views at Bukit Belibis – Golden hour is absolutely magical
- Koi fish beneath stepping stones at Tirta Gangga – The water is crystal clear for perfect reflections
- Rock towers at sunset on Yeh Leh – Create your own good-luck stack for a personal touch
Photography Tips for Hidden Gems
Bring: Waterproof phone case, portable charger, microfiber cloth for lens cleaning
Settings: Use HDR mode for high-contrast scenes like cave waterfalls
Timing: Golden hour (4:00-5:30 p.m.) provides the best natural lighting
Backup: Take both photos and videos—movement adds magic to waterfall content
Critical Travel Waiver.
I am an ardent traveler who shares my personal findings. I am neither a licensed tour operator nor a travel agent. Bali has roads and conditions that frequently change, along with local rules that are subject to regular updates.
Never forget to check the local alerts before visiting a place. Use a helmet when riding scooters. Before traveling, buy all-inclusive travel insurance. You take your own life in any water.
In case you think that one of the paths is unsafe or unstable, follow your gut feeling. Turn back immediately. In any case, there is another waterfall or standpoint to visit.
The weather in the tropics is also prone to sudden changes. Therefore, be prepared to adjust your plans. Please be respectful of all local traditions and sacred sites that you come across.
This guide reflects the current state of affairs at the time it was written. The entrance fees, accessibility, and crowd sizes can vary. Whenever possible, always clear information with the locals.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Own Hidden Gems in Bali That Tourists Miss
Bali holds secret treasures that reward the curious traveler. Take the tour buses, and you will get the customary postcard shot. Go on the gravel road, and you’ll get tales you will tell your whole life long.
These five hidden places represent only a fraction of what can It should be discovered. Any wrong path can lead you to your own waterfall. A conversation with a local farmer might reveal another unnamed beach.
Another comment about 2025, hidden gems: The phrase can be rewritten as “has been transformed by the internet and social media.” What is considered hidden nowadays may become a trend on Instagram tomorrow. There are places in this guide that have already broken that barrier. The best advice? Create your own discoveries. Talk to locals. Go in the wrong direction intentionally. The real unknowns will be nowhere in the guide—this or any other.
It is in these unplanned moments that magic dwells on the island.
Bring a sense of adventure and your sunscreen. Get such offline maps and get out of wifi. Above all things, get away early enough to avoid the crowds—earlier than you think you must.
Meet on the quiet side of the island (before 8:00 a.m.).
– Katie
Ready to explore hidden gems in Bali that tourists completely miss? Save this guide and share it with your travel companions. But maybe not on social media—let’s keep these gems relatively secret a bit longer. 😉
P.S. – If you discover your own unnamed waterfall or empty beach, keep it to yourself a little while. The joy of discovery is worth protecting. Planning a trip to Bali in 2025? Be sure to check the latest travel guidelines and local insights from the official Bali Tourism Board to ensure a smooth, respectful, and enjoyable journey.
Share your discoveries: Have you discovered hidden gems in Bali that tourists often overlook? The travel community thrives on shared knowledge—but timing those revelations wisely keeps magic alive for future explorers.
If you’re looking for a broader guide to traveling Indonesia or budget travel tips for Bali, Nomadic Matt’s Indonesia travel guide is a reliable and regularly updated resource worth bookmarking.
