Bali isn’t just for luxury seekers or honeymooners — it’s a paradise for budget-savvy families looking for adventure, nature, culture, and relaxation without emptying their wallets. With delicious food, welcoming locals, affordable stays, and countless free or low-cost activities, Bali offers big adventures on a small budget.
Whether you’re planning your first family trip or looking for a tropical escape that fits your savings plan, this guide will walk you through how to explore Bali with kids without breaking the bank.
Free & Low-Cost Outdoor Activities
Visit Bali’s Beautiful Beaches
The best part? Bali’s beaches are free! Head to family-friendly spots like:
Sanur Beach
Calm waters perfect for little ones.
Nusa Dua
Clean, safe, and great for swimming or a picnic.
Jimbaran Bay
Watch the sunset while enjoying grilled corn or cheap seafood by the shore.
Bring your own snacks, sand toys, and enjoy the sunshine without spending a dime!
Explore Rice Terraces
Kids will love running around the Tegalalang Rice Terraces near Ubud. There’s a small entry fee (~IDR 15,000), and the view is unforgettable. For more peace and fewer tourists, try Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Monkey Forest
For around IDR 80,000 per adult, you can enter the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud. It’s educational, fun, and full of playful monkeys your kids will adore (just keep snacks hidden!).
Budget-Friendly Family Accommodation
Bali is full of affordable homestays, guesthouses, and family-friendly hostels that offer comfort without luxury prices.
Where to Stay:
Green Field Hotel (Ubud)
Beautiful views and family suites at a reasonable price.
MAMAKA by Ovolo (Kuta)
Chic but budget-friendly with beach access and family rooms.
Local guesthouses in Sidemen or Munduk
A peaceful and cultural experience for a lower cost.
Tip: Use booking sites like Agoda or Booking.com and filter by “family rooms” + “budget.”
Eating Cheap & Tasty: Where to Dine on a Dime
Bali’s food scene is cheap, fresh, and delicious — especially if you eat like a local!
Try These Budget-Friendly Foods:
Nasi Goreng (fried rice)
~IDR 20,000–30,000
Mie Goreng (fried noodles)
Spicy, sweet, and perfect for picky eaters
Sate (meat skewers)
Grilled and affordable
Family-Friendly Warungs (Local Eateries):
Warung Biah Biah (Ubud)
Small plates and local flavors
Warung Murah (Seminyak)
Name means “cheap,” and it lives up to it!
Bali Buda (Multiple locations)
Healthier, still affordable
You can easily feed a family of four under $10 USD if you stick to warungs!
Getting Around Bali on a Budget
Affordable Transport Tips:
- Hire a driver for the day (~IDR 500,000–600,000 or $30–$40 USD) to explore far spots like waterfalls or temples.
- Use Grab or Gojek for short rides instead of expensive taxis.
- Rent a scooter (if safe with older kids) – For under $6/day, you’ll save a lot.
Or stay in walkable areas like Ubud or Sanur, where everything is nearby.
Budget-Friendly Cultural Adventures
Temples to Visit with Kids:
Tirta Empul
Sacred spring where families can participate in a purification ritual (small entry fee).
Ulun Danu Beratan
Floating temple that looks magical and great for family photos.
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
Mysterious and exciting for curious little explorers.
Always carry a sarong (or borrow one at the entrance) to enter temples respectfully.
Bonus: Free or Low-Cost Family Activities
Campuhan Ridge Walk (Ubud)
Free and full of scenic beauty.
Traditional dance shows
Some free, others charge IDR 100,000–150,000 — totally worth it!
Local markets
Ubud Market or Sukawati Art Market is fun to explore with kids and maybe pick up a cheap souvenir.
Tips to Save More:
- Travel during shoulder seasons (April–June, September–November) for lower prices and less crowd.
- Book combo activities (like rafting + lunch) through local providers.
- Always negotiate prices in markets and with drivers (politely!).
Affordable family fun in Bali is not just possible — it’s magical. From beaches and rice fields to tasty meals and temple visits, Bali is packed with enriching experiences that don’t require a big budget.
It’s a destination where your family can laugh, learn, explore, and connect — all while keeping your savings intact. Because in the end, the best part of the trip won’t be the price — it’ll be the memories you made together.
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