Bali—just the name makes me think of turquoise waters, lush rice paddies, and the kind of sunsets that make you want to drop everything and live on an island forever. When I started planning my first family trip to Bali, I had no idea what I was getting into. I mean, it's paradise, right? But finding the best Bali vacation packages for families? That’s a whole different game. Don’t worry, though—after a few hits and misses, I’ve figured out what works and what doesn’t. Here’s the lowdown.
Why Packages Work (and When They Don’t)
Let me start by saying, I used to think vacation packages were just for people who didn’t want to plan anything themselves. Boy, was I wrong. If you’re traveling with kids, a solid package can save your sanity—and your wallet. The trick is finding one that balances flexibility with convenience. I learned the hard way that some packages are loaded with “extras” you’ll never use, like scuba diving lessons when your youngest is still figuring out how to float.
What worked for us was booking a package that included accommodation, airport transfers (a must if you want to avoid the chaos of negotiating with drivers after a long flight), and a mix of activities that actually catered to families. Look for deals that include cultural experiences like Balinese dance shows or cooking classes—they’re fun for adults and kids alike.
Resorts vs. Villas: Which Is Better for Families?
This is where things get interesting. Bali has no shortage of options, from all-inclusive resorts to private villas tucked into the jungle. When we went, we spent a week in each to see what worked best for our crew.
If you want everything within arm’s reach—kids’ clubs, on-site restaurants, massive pools—go for a resort. We stayed at Club Med Bali in Nusa Dua for part of our trip, and honestly, it was worth every penny. The kids were obsessed with the daily activities, and we finally had some downtime to sip on cocktails without worrying about keeping them entertained. Plus, Nusa Dua is quieter compared to areas like Kuta, so you can actually relax.
Check also: Romantic Things to Do in Bali for Couples
That said, villas are where Bali really shines. Imagine waking up in a private oasis with your own pool, surrounded by nothing but jungle sounds. We stayed in Ubud for this part of the trip, and it was a whole vibe. Villas also give you more space to spread out, which is a blessing when the kids start bickering. Just make sure to pick one that comes with housekeeping or even a private chef (many do!), because who wants to cook on vacation?
Activities That’ll Keep Everyone Happy
Here’s the thing about traveling with kids: they’ll let you know real quick if something isn’t fun. That’s why we mixed up our itinerary with a blend of active and chill days.
- Waterbom Bali: Hands down the best water park we’ve ever been to. The Lazy River was a hit with the younger kids, while the older ones couldn’t get enough of the slides. Pro tip (oops, said it anyway!): Go early to beat the crowds.
- Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud: Okay, this was a bit of a mixed bag. The kids loved seeing the monkeys up close, but one of them almost ran off with my sunglasses. If you go, keep your belongings zipped up!
- Beach Days: Bali’s beaches are stunning, but they’re not all created equal. We loved Sanur for its calm, shallow waters—perfect for little ones. If you’ve got older kids or teens, try surfing lessons in Canggu or Seminyak.
Food: Navigating Picky Eaters
I’ll admit, I was nervous about this one. My youngest basically lives on chicken nuggets, so I wasn’t sure how he’d handle Balinese cuisine. Turns out, Bali’s got you covered. Most places offer a mix of local dishes and Western options, so you won’t have to worry about anyone going hungry.
Some family-friendly restaurants we loved:
- Milk & Madu (Canggu): Amazing breakfast options, and they’ve got a play area for kids.
- Mamma Mia (Sanur): If your kids need a pizza fix, this is the spot.
- Locavore (Ubud): This one’s a splurge, but it’s worth it if you’re into trying creative dishes made from local ingredients.
- Practical Tips for Booking the Best Packages
- Book Early: Family-friendly options fill up fast, especially during school holidays. Aim for at least 3–6 months in advance.
- Be Flexible with Dates: If you can avoid peak season (July–August and December), you’ll save a ton. Plus, places are less crowded.
- Read the Fine Print: Not all “all-inclusive” packages include things like airport transfers or kids’ activities, so double-check what you’re getting.
- Work with a Local Agent: Some of the best deals we found came through a Bali-based travel agent. They know the island better than any big-name booking site ever will.
What I’d Do Differently Next Time
Looking back, I wish I’d packed lighter. Bali’s vibe is super casual, and you’ll spend most of your time in swimsuits and flip-flops anyway. I also underestimated how much time we’d spend just hanging out at our villa or resort—sometimes the best memories are made when you’re not rushing from one activity to the next.
So there you have it. Planning a family trip to Bali can feel overwhelming, but once you’re there, it’s pure magic. If you’ve been on the fence about whether it’s the right destination for your crew, let me just say this: Go for it.
Packing Essentials for a Bali Family Vacation
Packing for a Bali trip can be a bit of a challenge, especially when you’re trying to account for kids, weather, and activities. I’m not going to lie—I overpacked the first time. I brought way too many “just in case” items that we never touched. Now that I know better, here’s what I’d recommend packing to make your trip smoother:
- Light, Breathable Clothing: Bali is warm and humid, so stick to lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen. For kids, pack extra clothes—they’ll sweat, swim, and spill all day long.
- Reusable Water Bottles: The heat can sneak up on you, and hydration is key. Plus, Bali is big on sustainability, so skip the disposable plastic bottles.
- Sunscreen and Bug Spray: The sun in Bali is no joke, and mosquitoes can be relentless. Trust me, you don’t want to deal with a cranky kid who’s sunburned or covered in itchy bites.
- Baby/Toddler Gear: If you’ve got younger kids, bring a lightweight stroller (make sure it folds easily for taxis) and a baby carrier for places like Ubud, where paths can be uneven.
- Snacks: Even though Bali has plenty of kid-friendly food, it’s always good to have some familiar snacks on hand for picky eaters or long drives.
- First Aid Kit: Bandaids, antiseptic cream, and kids’ paracetamol are must-haves. You might not need them, but you’ll be glad you packed them if you do.
What I’ve learned is that Bali has stores everywhere, so if you forget something, you can usually buy it there. But some items, like your favorite sunscreen or a specific baby formula, might be hard to find or expensive, so plan accordingly.
Best Areas in Bali for Families
Bali is a surprisingly diverse island, and where you stay can make or break your trip. Each area has its own vibe, so here’s a quick rundown of the most family-friendly spots and what you can expect:
Nusa Dua
This area is like a bubble of calm. It’s home to some of Bali’s best all-inclusive resorts, and the beaches here are pristine. The vibe is quiet and laid-back, making it perfect for families with younger kids. We stayed at a beachfront resort here, and the kids practically lived in the lagoon pool. Bonus: The waters are calm, so you don’t have to worry about strong currents.
Sanur
Sanur is kind of like Nusa Dua’s artsy sibling. It’s more low-key than places like Seminyak but has a charming village feel. The beach here has shallow water and a long boardwalk, which is great for leisurely strolls or renting bikes. Sanur also has a mix of local warungs (small eateries) and Western-style cafes, so you get the best of both worlds.
Ubud
If you’re up for some adventure, Ubud is where it’s at. This is the cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by rice terraces, temples, and jungle. Staying in a villa here was one of the highlights of our trip. The kids loved exploring the Monkey Forest and learning to make traditional offerings at a local workshop. Just keep in mind, Ubud isn’t as stroller-friendly as other areas—it’s better suited for families with older kids.
Jimbaran
Known for its seafood dinners on the beach, Jimbaran is another great spot for families. The beach here is less crowded than Seminyak or Kuta, and the sunsets are out of this world. We spent an evening here watching the kids build sandcastles while we enjoyed grilled fish and corn on the cob—it doesn’t get much better than that.
Overrated Spots (and What to Do Instead)
Okay, let me save you some disappointment here. Not every hyped-up spot in Bali is worth your time—especially when you’re juggling kids.
- Kuta Beach: It’s often the first place people think of when they hear “Bali,” but honestly, it’s loud, crowded, and not very clean. If you want a better beach experience, head to Sanur or Nusa Dua.
- Mount Batur Sunrise Trek: I thought this would be a cool “family bonding” experience, but waking the kids up at 2 a.m. for a hike? Yeah, not my smartest idea. It’s stunning, but save this for a kid-free trip or older teens who can handle it.
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces: These are Insta-famous, but they get packed with tourists. Instead, visit the quieter Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. They’re just as beautiful, and you won’t feel like you’re in a crowd.
Keeping the Kids Entertained on Rainy Days
Bali is gorgeous, but it’s not all sunshine. If you’re visiting during the rainy season (November to March), you’ll want some indoor options to keep the kiddos entertained. Here’s what worked for us:
- Bali Safari and Marine Park: Even on a rainy day, this place is a hit. You can stay dry while riding the safari tram, and the kids will love seeing the animals up close.
- Upside Down World Bali: This quirky photo spot is fun for all ages. The kids thought it was hilarious pretending to “hang” from the ceiling in upside-down rooms.
- Creative Classes: Many resorts and local businesses offer kid-friendly workshops like batik painting, cooking classes, or even Balinese dance lessons. It’s a great way to keep them busy while learning something new.
- Playgrounds and Indoor Play Areas: Bali has a surprising number of play spaces like Peek A Boo in Sanur or Cubby House Kids Club in Canggu.
Budget Tips for Families
Let’s face it—traveling with a family isn’t cheap. But Bali can be surprisingly affordable if you plan it right. Here’s how we managed to stick to our budget without sacrificing fun:
- Eat at Warungs: These small, family-run eateries serve delicious local food at a fraction of the price you’d pay in touristy restaurants. Nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles) were staples for us.
- Use Bluebird Taxis or Grab: Transportation adds up fast, but apps like Grab (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber) can save you a lot. Just avoid unmetered “local” taxis—they’ll charge you double.
- Skip the Pricey Souvenirs: It’s tempting to load up on Balinese crafts, but trust me, you’ll find the same stuff for way cheaper in local markets like Sukawati Art Market.
- Book Direct: Many villas and resorts offer discounts if you book directly through their website instead of third-party platforms.
Planning a family trip to Bali might feel overwhelming at first, but trust me, it’s so worth it. With the right package, a bit of planning, and an open mind, you’ll create memories your family will talk about for years.