Most Instagrammable Places in Bali: A Guide for Picture-Perfect Shots

Most Instagrammable Places in Bali – If you’re planning a trip to Bali and your Instagram game matters even a little bit, you’re in for a treat. Bali is basically a living postcard—everywhere you turn, there’s something ridiculously beautiful. Whether it’s dramatic clifftop views, lush rice terraces, or cafes that look like they were designed purely for aesthetic pleasure, the island is a goldmine for content creators, photographers, and anyone who loves a good selfie.

Now, I’ve been to Bali more times than I can count (okay, maybe I can count, but let’s just say a lot), and I’ve learned that not all “Instagrammable” spots are created equal. Some look amazing in photos but are a logistical nightmare to visit. Others are worth the hype and then some. So, let me break it down for you—where to go, what to expect, and how to get those killer shots without losing your mind in the process.

1. The Iconic Gates of Heaven (Pura Lempuyang)

You’ve probably seen this one all over Instagram—those dreamy temple gates with a perfect reflection that makes it look like you’re floating on water. Here’s the thing: That reflection? It’s not a lake. It’s a mirror trick used by photographers on-site. Yep, they literally hold a small mirror under their camera lens to create that illusion. Mind-blowing, right?

Read also: How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Bali Vacation

What You Need to Know:

• Get there early. Like, before-the-sun-comes-up early. The wait for a photo can stretch for hours if you go later in the day.
• Be prepared for an entrance fee. It changes often, but budget around IDR 100,000 ($6.50 USD). They’ll also give you a sarong to wear if you don’t have one.
• Cloudy days are a gamble. Sometimes, the mountains in the background disappear into the mist, which ruins the whole “heavenly” vibe.
• Know that you only get a few shots. They move you along quickly, so plan your poses ahead of time.

2. Tegalalang Rice Terraces – Nature’s Staircase

If you haven’t been to Tegalalang, did you even go to Bali? These stunning, layered rice paddies are one of the most famous sights on the island, and they photograph beautifully. But let me tell you, they’re also one of those spots that get super crowded, super fast.

How to Get the Best Shots:

• Visit early in the morning or around golden hour. Midday is a no-go unless you enjoy sweating buckets.
• Find a less touristy section. Walk a little deeper into the terraces, and you’ll get fewer people in your frame.
• Don’t be afraid to tip the farmers. Some will let you take photos near their working areas for a small donation, and it’s a great way to show appreciation.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The paths can be steep and muddy, and nothing ruins an Instagram shoot faster than slipping in the mud.

3. The Swing at Bali Swing or Wanagiri Hidden Hill

You’ve seen those epic shots of people swinging over the jungle, looking effortlessly carefree. Well, those famous Bali swings? They’re not as spontaneous as they look. Most of them are part of paid attractions, and you have to wait in line for your turn.

What You Should Know:

• Bali Swing is the most famous but also the busiest. If you want a less crowded experience, check out Wanagiri Hidden Hill in North Bali.
• Wear something flowy. Long skirts or dresses look best in motion. Bonus points for bright colors that contrast with the greenery.
• Be ready to pay. Swing experiences range from IDR 150,000 to 500,000 ($10-$35 USD) depending on the location and package.
• Don’t forget the safety harness. They’ll Photoshop it out if you want, but yes, you’ll be strapped in.

4. The Floating Breakfast at Ubud’s Luxury Villas

You know those insanely aesthetic photos of breakfast trays floating in a pool? Yeah, that’s a Bali thing, and it’s worth experiencing at least once. But let’s be real—eating while floating is way harder than it looks. Your croissant will get soggy.

Where to Go:

• Kayon Jungle Resort – Set in the lush jungle of Ubud, with a killer infinity pool.
• Kamandalu Ubud – Classic floating breakfast experience with rice terrace views.
• The Edge Bali – Cliffside views that make everything look even more dramatic.

Tips for the Best Shot:

• Position the tray close to the pool edge. You don’t want it floating away mid-photo.
• Shoot from above. Overhead shots capture the entire spread better than side angles.
• Go for colorful food. Dragon fruit bowls, tropical juices, and pastries make your shot pop.

5. Handara Gate – The “Other” Famous Bali Gate

If you love the look of temple gates but don’t want to deal with the chaos at Pura Lempuyang, Handara Gate is a solid alternative. This one isn’t actually part of a temple—it’s the entrance to a golf course. But hey, it looks stunning, and that’s what matters.

What You Should Know:

• It’s less crowded than Lempuyang but still popular. Go early if you want a clean shot.
• You have to pay a small fee. Last I checked, it was around IDR 30,000 ($2 USD).
• Angles matter. A straight-on shot works best to capture the symmetry.

6. The Abandoned Plane in South Kuta

Want something different from the usual temples and beaches? Bali has several abandoned planes scattered around, but the one in South Kuta is the easiest to access. It’s a massive Boeing 737 just chilling in an open lot—perfect for edgy, urban-style shots.

Tips for Visiting:

• You can’t climb on it. The area is gated, but you can still get great photos from outside.
• Go for moody shots. Sunrise or sunset lighting gives it an eerie, cinematic feel.
• Check out other abandoned planes. There’s another near Uluwatu and one in the middle of a jungle—super cool but harder to reach.

7. The Rock Bar at Ayana Resort – Sunset Goals

If you’re after that perfect sunset-and-cocktail shot, The Rock Bar is where it’s at. Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, this bar feels like it was designed for Instagram. The lighting is unreal, especially when golden hour hits.

What You Need to Know:

• Reservations help. It gets packed, and you don’t want to fight for a good seat.
• Drinks are pricey. Expect resort-level pricing, but the views make it worth it.
• Best seats are near the edge. Arrive early and claim your spot before the crowds roll in.

8. Nusa Penida’s Kelingking Beach – The T-Rex Cliff

If there’s one place in Bali that feels straight out of a fantasy movie, it’s Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida. You know those jaw-dropping drone shots of a cliff shaped like a T-Rex? That’s here. The view from the top is absolutely insane, but let me warn you—getting down to the actual beach is not for the faint of heart.

What You Should Know Before You Go:

• The hike down is brutal. It’s steep, slippery, and there’s barely a real path—just some sketchy wooden railings. If you’re not confident in your hiking skills, stick to the viewpoint at the top.
• Midday sun is no joke. There’s barely any shade, and the heat is relentless. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and tons of water.
• The waves are rough. Swimming here isn’t for beginners. The current is strong, and lifeguards aren’t really a thing in Nusa Penida.
• Best time for photos? Early morning for soft light and fewer people. Sunset is amazing too, but you don’t want to be hiking back up in the dark.

9. Uluwatu Cliffside Views & The Kecak Fire Dance

Uluwatu is Bali’s ultimate clifftop paradise, with dramatic ocean views and a temple perched on the edge of a cliff. But let’s be real—if you’re coming for Instagram, you need to stay for the Kecak Fire Dance at sunset. It’s one of the most visually stunning performances on the island, with dancers chanting in a circle while the sun sinks into the ocean behind them.

Making the Most of It:

• Get there early. The temple itself is beautiful, but it gets crowded fast. Arrive at least an hour before sunset.
• Watch out for the monkeys. These little guys are professional thieves. Secure your sunglasses, hats, and anything shiny.
• Best seat for the fire dance? The higher rows in the amphitheater give you a better perspective for photos.
• Stay for dinner. There are plenty of cliffside restaurants nearby where you can watch the waves crash while eating fresh seafood.

10. Sekumpul Waterfall – Bali’s Most Epic Waterfall

Bali has no shortage of waterfalls, but if you want the ultimate shot, Sekumpul Waterfall is the one. It’s not just one waterfall—it’s a cluster of them, surrounded by thick jungle, and it looks straight out of a fairy tale. But here’s the catch: It’s not as easy to get to as the more touristy waterfalls like Tegenungan.

What to Expect:

• The hike down takes effort. You’ll be walking for about 30-40 minutes, including some steep steps. Totally worth it, though.
• Bring waterproof gear. The mist from the falls is intense, and your camera will get wet if you’re not careful.
• Visit early. You’ll have the best chance of getting photos without a crowd.
• Local guides can help. They’ll show you the best photo spots and help you cross any tricky sections of the river.

11. Bali’s Most Aesthetic Cafés & Beach Clubs

If you’re more into aesthetic café vibes and beach club lounging, Bali is basically a dream come true. The island is packed with places that look like they were designed for Instagram, with stunning decor, tropical drinks, and picture-perfect lighting.

Cafés That Deliver on the Aesthetic:

• KYND Community (Seminyak) – Famous for its pink walls, colorful smoothie bowls, and customized fruit letters.
• Nalu Bowls (Canggu & Uluwatu) – The original Bali smoothie bowl spot, and still one of the best.
• The Lawn (Canggu) – Oceanfront bean bags, boho vibes, and amazing sunset cocktails.
• Cafe Organic (Seminyak) – Gorgeous plant-based dishes that are as tasty as they are photogenic.

Beach Clubs Worth Visiting:

• Savaya (Uluwatu) – A high-end beach club with insane infinity pool views over the cliffs.
• Potato Head Beach Club (Seminyak) – Classic Bali vibes, with a massive pool and tropical cocktails.
• La Brisa (Canggu) – Bohemian, beachfront, and full of rustic wooden decor. Perfect for golden hour shots.
• Atlas Beach Fest (Berawa) – The biggest beach club in Bali, with multiple pools and different themed areas.

12. Diamond Beach – A Slice of Paradise

Another Nusa Penida gem, Diamond Beach is straight-up breathtaking. Think white sand, dramatic cliffs, and the bluest water you’ve ever seen. The beach used to be inaccessible, but now there’s a staircase carved into the cliffside, making it possible to get down to the sand.

How to Get the Best Photos:

• Morning light is best. The cliffs cast shadows in the afternoon, which makes it harder to capture the full beauty of the beach.
• That famous staircase shot? It’s at the beginning of the trail down, so you don’t actually have to walk all the way to the bottom if you’re just after the photo.
• Be careful in the waves. Like most of Nusa Penida, the currents here can be strong. Take photos near the shore where it’s safe.

13. The Famous Infinity Pools (Hanging Gardens & Munduk Moding Plantation)

You’ve seen them on Instagram—the pools that seem to blend seamlessly into the jungle or the sky. Bali has some of the world’s best infinity pools, and if you’re looking for that wow factor, these are the top choices.

Where to Go:

• Hanging Gardens of Bali – Set deep in the jungle of Ubud, this pool is pure luxury. Rooms here aren’t cheap, but the experience is next-level.
• Munduk Moding Plantation – This one gives you the illusion of floating above the clouds. It’s in North Bali, so it’s quieter than the more touristy spots.
• Alila Villas Uluwatu – Cliffside views that stretch endlessly over the Indian Ocean. One of the most expensive spots, but if you can swing it, it’s unreal.

Photo Tips:

• Use a wide-angle lens. It captures more of the infinity effect.
• Shoot in the morning or sunset. Midday sun makes the water look too bright, washing out the dramatic contrast.
• Wear a bold color. Reds, oranges, or deep blues pop beautifully against the background.

A Few More Unexpected Insta-Worthy Spots in Bali

• Bamboo Houses in Sidemen – Dreamy eco-lodges surrounded by rice fields.
• Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – Even bigger and greener than Tegalalang, and way less crowded.
• The “Ghost Palace” Hotel – An abandoned luxury hotel in Bedugul, rumored to be haunted. Perfect for eerie, moody shots.
• Penglipuran Village – One of the cleanest, most picturesque villages in Bali, with traditional Balinese architecture.

Get Out There & Start Snapping

Honestly, Bali is the kind of place where you don’t even need to try to get an amazing photo—it just happens. Whether you’re capturing temple gates, dreamy beaches, or vibrant cafes, there’s something for every kind of aesthetic.

But don’t forget—some of the best travel memories happen between the Instagram shots. So take a moment, soak it all in, and maybe even leave your phone in your bag once in a while (just for a few minutes, I promise it’s worth it).