Bali & Gili : Sugar, Spice and Everything Nice!

Bali + Gili 12 day Itinerary ( Uluwatu - Nusa Penida - Gili T - Gili Meno - Ubud - Canggu)

The total cost for our 12-day luxury honeymoon trip was $4270 for two people (all-inclusive).

Bali and the Gili Islands offer the perfect mix of laid-back island life and elevated travel experiences. Think affordable luxury, vibrant cafés, kind locals, tropical greenery, scenic treks, and sun-soaked beach days. With their seamless blend of raw natural beauty and modern charm, these destinations create an easy, immersive escape—whether you’re exploring lush interiors or unwinding by crystal-clear waters.

Day 1 – Uluwatu

After a layover in Malaysia, we landed at Ngurah Rai International Airport around noon and headed straight to our stunning beach-facing stay in Uluwatu—a dramatic cliffside destination known for its endless ocean views and luxury villas.

After settling in and enjoying a relaxed in-house lunch, we rented a two-wheeler and visited Uluwatu Temple—a breathtaking temple perched on a steep cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, especially magical at sunset.

We stayed back for the famous Kecak Dance—a powerful traditional performance with rhythmic chanting and fire elements, set against the glowing evening sky.

Later, we headed to a lively café for dinner—great vegan burgers, delicious food, and a fun karaoke atmosphere to end the day.

Day 2 – Uluwatu

We woke up to the soothing sound of waves and had breakfast with a view that felt straight out of Santorini—minimal, dreamy, and overlooking endless blue.

Our first stop was Melasti Beach—a scenic stretch of white sand framed by towering limestone cliffs and clear turquoise waters.

We then spent time at a beautiful beach club—perfect for unwinding over great food, drinks, and slow luxury vibes.

In the evening, we visited Suluban Beach—a unique beach tucked beneath cliffs, accessed through caves and narrow pathways, popular among surfers.

Dinner was at a chic boho café with live music, warm lighting, and an effortlessly stylish vibe—the kind of place that makes you want to redecorate your entire home.

Day 3 – Nusa Penida

After another relaxed breakfast, we spent some time at our private beach before heading to Sanur Harbour to catch a ferry to Nusa Penida—a rugged island known for its untouched beauty and dramatic coastal cliffs.

We arrived by afternoon, checked into our luxurious stay, and decided to take it slow. The evening was spent in an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, watching the sun melt into the horizon.

The day ended with an open-air cultural dance at our hotel and a peaceful dinner.

Day 4 – Nusa Penida

We hired a private cab to explore the island.

Our first stop was Diamond Beach—a stunning beach with turquoise waters, white sand, and towering rock formations. The trek down is steep but absolutely worth it.

Next was Tembeling Beach and Forest—a hidden gem deep within the forest, featuring a natural infinity pool and a secluded beach surrounded by cliffs.

We then visited Kelingking Beach—one of Bali’s most iconic viewpoints, famous for its T-rex-shaped cliff and dramatic drop into the ocean.

By sunset, we explored Broken Beach—a circular cove formed by a natural rock arch—and Angel’s Billabong, a crystal-clear natural pool carved into the rocks.

One thing that stood out even here: even the smallest cafés clearly mentioned ingredients and vegan options—something we really appreciated.

Day 5 – Gili Trawangan

We took a ferry to Gili Trawangan—a vehicle-free island known for its laid-back beach life, cycling paths, and lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

Our beachfront stay was just a short walk from the ferry. After checking in and enjoying a great vegan meal, we spent the evening cycling around the island, stopping at sunset points and beachside cafés.

Day 6 – Gili Trawangan

We signed up for scuba diving—and it turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip. With professional instructors, we explored vibrant coral reefs, colourful fish, and even turtles—yes, we found Nemo!

We spent the evening unwinding at beach cafés, soaking in the island’s calm yet lively vibe.

Day 7 – Gili Meno

We cycled across Gili T in the morning and took a private boat to Gili Meno—the quietest and most untouched of the Gili islands.

The island felt raw and peaceful, with very few people. We visited a turtle sanctuary and a serene freshwater lake, then spent time snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.

Back in Gili T, we explored lively streets, café-hopped, and ended the night with a relaxing foot massage while chatting with locals from Lombok.

Day 8 – Ubud

Leaving island life behind was tough, but we headed to Ubud—Bali’s cultural heart, known for its jungles, art, and wellness retreats.

Our luxury penthouse overlooked lush greenery and came with a private whirlpool.

We visited the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary—a dense sanctuary filled with playful monkeys.

Later, we walked the Campuhan Ridge Walk—a peaceful trail with rolling hills and scenic views.

Day 9 – Ubud

We rode through Ubud’s scenic roads to Kanto Lampo Waterfall—a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall cascading over rocks, perfect for photos.

The rest of the day was spent exploring local markets, admiring bamboo crafts, and trying some of the best vegan food we had on the trip.

Day 10 – Mount Batur Trek

We woke up at 2 AM for the Mount Batur sunrise trek—an active volcano famous for its surreal sunrise views above the clouds.

The climb was challenging but incredibly rewarding. Post the trek we visited a nearby coffee plantation.

After returning and resting, we ended the day with a traditional Balinese & hot stone massage—deeply relaxing and absolutely worth it.

Day 11 – Canggu

We started the day at Tegallalang Rice Terraces—iconic layered rice fields that showcase Bali’s natural beauty.

Then we headed to Canggu—a trendy coastal town known for its cafés, beach clubs, and surf culture.

We visited Tanah Lot Temple—a stunning temple set on a rock formation in the sea, especially beautiful at sunset.

We had planned to visit a beach club later, but had to skip it due to a minor mishap and instead chose to rest.

Day 12 – Bye Bye Bali

After breakfast, we headed to the airport, wrapping up an unforgettable journey.

Final Note

Indonesia truly offers the perfect mix—raw natural beauty, luxurious stays, vibrant cafés with a wide variety of vegan food, endless activities, and some of the warmest people you’ll meet.

It’s a destination that stays with you long after you leave—and one you’ll definitely want to return to.