Contrary to popular belief, being gay in Bali is not only accepted but in some ways, celebrated. With an influx of gay-friendly bars and hotels causing a stir from the coast of Seminyak to the cultural hub of Ubud, being an LGBT+ traveller in Bali has never been easier.
I understand this may be surprising to some, considering Indonesia is the most populous Muslim country in the world. However, what with the predominant Hindu influence and tourism hitting an all-time high, Bali has a far more relaxed attitude relative to other parts of Indonesia. In short, the aptly named ‘Island of the Gods’ is proud to welcome all travellers.
We recently spent a lot of time in Bali, and we can surely confirm that this popular travel destination is worth all the hype. From magnificent mountains to rugged coastlines, and majestic waterfalls to smouldering volcanoes, the abundant Balinese nature is unlike anywhere else we’ve been. Combine this with the rich and vibrant Balinese culture, and you have everything you need to have a truly fantastic time.
In this travel guide, we outline all the best places to go in Bali as an LGBT+ traveller. You’ll find a list of gay-friendly hotels and bars and our top tips as an LGBT+ couple in Bali. We will also touch on LGBT+ rights and social opinions in Indonesia, so you are fully prepared.
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LGBT+ Rights in Indonesia
OK, before we get stuck into our LGBT+ travel guide for Bali, let’s quickly talk about LGBT rights in Indonesia. While these may not be so relevant when travelling in Bali, it’s important to be aware of the situation so you can avoid any unnecessary issues along your travels.
Unfortunately, Indonesia doesn’t have the best reputation when it comes to LGBT Rights. The sad thing is, the situation seems to be deteriorating. While same-sex sexual activity is legal in most provinces, there is a strong movement to criminalise it and is currently under review by the government.
It is the lack of anti-discrimination laws, however, that poses the biggest threat toward the LGBT+ community. With no anti-discrimination laws in place, att@cks on the LGBT community in Indonesia go unpunished. Of course, this leads to a general fear among LGBT people and a hesitance to come out to family or friends.
Surprisingly, the transgender community are more widely accepted in society than lesbians, gays, or bisexuals. The minority group, known as ‘Waria’, live quite openly in Indonesia; however, still, face the risk of discrimination and att@ck from avid Islamic groups.
Thankfully, Bali is far more liberal relative to other parts of the country. Famed for being the gay oasis of Indonesia, here you’ll find an almost flourishing gay scene, including gay-friendly hotels and bars. Nevertheless, we always advise acting discreetly and behaving appropriately to local customs. For example, public displays of affection are discouraged – even among straight couples.
Gay in Bali – Where to Go?
Bali is a truly vast and diverse island, with lots of incredible places to be discovered. Depending on how long you have, we recommend seeing as much of it as you can. From the pristine beaches in Uluwatu, and the Balinese architecture in Ubud, to experiencing world-class diving on the Gili islands, Bali has a lot to offer.
While LGBT+ travellers can travel comfortably throughout Bali, you might feel more at ease in the larger tourist hubs where you’re likely to be in the company of other LGBT+ people. Whereas the smaller villages, on the other hand, are often more conservative, and you may need to act more discreetly.
Either way, we always found the Balinese people to be extremely welcoming and kind. While we aren’t ones to flaunt our relationship in public when we travel, we never felt uncomfortable asking for a double room or exchanging a sneaky kiss now and again.
Nevertheless, after exploring Bali extensively, we have collated a list of what we believe to be the best destinations for LGBT+ travellers. For further travel inspiration, you can check out our 10-Day Bali Itinerary or this article by the Broke Backpacker on the best places to visit in Bali.
Gay in Seminyak Guide
Swanky Seminyak is, without a doubt, the gay haven of Bali. I say swanky because here is where you’ll find an influx of luxury villas and high-end restaurants. At the same time, Seminyak boasts most of Bali’s Gay Bars and Drag Shows, as well as gay-friendly hotels & beaches.
Although Seminyak may not exactly be geared up towards budget backpackers, that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of the thriving gay scene, wild nightlife, and beautiful beaches. If you can’t afford to stay in flashy Seminyak, our advice is to find more modest accommodation in nearby Canggu.
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Gay-Friendly Hotels in Seminyak
While most hotels in Seminyak will happily welcome LGBT+ travellers, these hotels, in particular, are acclaimed to be gay-friendly. Here I list a mid-range, premium, and luxury option to try to cater to various budgets and interests.
Mid-Range $ – Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak – Located in the heart of bustling Seminyak, Grandmas Plus Hotel is just 2-minutes walk from Double Six Beach and within walking distance of the best Bali Gay Bars. Facilities of the hotel include modern rooms with air conditioning, an outdoor swimming pool, on-sight yoga classes, and wifi throughout the property.
Premium $$ – Grand Balisani Suites – Located right on Batu Belig Beach – commonly referred to as ‘gay beach’, Grand Balisani Suites provide excellent value for money in sophisticated Seminyak. Facilities include an outdoor pool and on-site spa and wellness centre, while the rooms come equipped with traditional Balinese furnishings, air-conditioning, and cable TV.
Luxury $$$ – W Bali Seminyak – Seasoned gay travellers will be familiar with the W chain and how they are always open to LGBT clientele. Rooms are a little on the pricy side; however, if you can afford it, 5* luxury and celebrity treatment await at W Bali Seminyak. Features include a modern and innovative theme throughout the hotel, a fitness centre, swimming pools, and a choice of global restaurants.
You can also check out many other accommodation options for Seminyak here. Or use the Map below to see all your options:
Gay Bars in Seminyak
You can conveniently locate the Gay Bars in Seminyak along one strip, known as Jalan Camplung Tanduk Arcade. There are 3 bars in particular which are most frequented by LGBT+ locals and travellers.
Mixwell – Mixwell is the most popular out of the 3 and holds a spectacular drag show most evenings. For the best atmosphere, we recommend visiting on a Friday or Saturday night when most people are out to play.
Bali Joe – Bali Joe is your stereotypical gay bar where you can expect to dance the night away to all your favourite gay icons. Again, weekends tend to be the busiest!
Face Bar – Super flamboyant Face Bar also has drag shows and go-go dancers which are always a lot of fun. This bar is especially popular after midnight most evenings.
What to do in Seminyak
From beautiful beaches and surfing spots to relaxing spas and quirky cafes, here are some of the top things to do in and around Seminyak.
Check out the Beaches
Some of the best beaches in Bali are in Seminyak, and it’s our favourite spot on the island to catch the sunset. Check out Double Six Beach for incredible reflections while the sun goes down. Or Batu Belig Beach is commonly referred to as ‘gay beach’, due to its popularity among the LGBT+ community. You can also try your hand at surfing on most beaches in Seminyak.
Take it Easy at a Balinese Spa
Every other establishment in Seminyak seems to be a spa, so why not treat yourself to a little pampering time. Traditional Balinese massage is an incredibly relaxing experience and is sure to leave you revitalised. Ready for another night out on the town!
Explore the Cafe Culture in Canggu
Just North of Seminyak is Canggu, a laid-back surfer slash hippie enclave where digital nomads arrive and never leave. With its hipster cafes and trendy restaurants, Canggu is a haven for foodies and Instagrammers alike. Check out this guide for the best cafes in Canggu.
Save Time and Book a Tour
For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on Get Your Guide:
Gay in Ubud Guide
On the opposite end of the scale, we have Ubud – the cultural and creative hub of Bali. It’s one of the most touristic places on the island but at the same time one of the most authentic. Ubud represents the true essence of Balinese culture – sacred and accepting. Many tourists come to Ubud to create, meditate and connect with their inner spiritual being.
What we love most about Ubud is its abundant natural beauty. Steaming jungles, sweeping rice paddies, and majestic waterfalls combine to create an enchanting wonderland. It’s one of our favourite places on the island, and somewhere we felt incredibly at ease as an LGBT couple.
Gay-Friendly Hotels in Ubud
While the nightlife, in general, is pretty low-key, there are a handful of acclaimed gay-friendly hotels in Ubud. Here is a selection of our favourites which cater to various budgets. But in general, LGBT+ travellers can expect to feel at ease in most establishments throughout Ubud.
Budget $ – Wijaya Guesthouse Ubud – Before we moved to our long-term Air Bnb in Ubud, we stayed at Wijaya Guesthouse in Ubud. For under $10 a night, we had a private room with bathroom. The room was incredibly basic but had everything you need for a comfortable stay. It was a great base for exploring Ubud, yet at the same time located in a nice and peaceful area.
Mid-Range $$ – Ananda Ubud Resort – Nestled amidst the rice-fields, Ananda Ubud Resort provides a peaceful retreat on the outskirts of Ubud. Features of the traditional Balinese property include 3 swimming pools, an on-site spa, yoga studio, and beautifully designed rooms.
Luxury $$$ – Maya Ubud Resort & Spa – Perched in a secluded area of lush jungle, Maya Ubud Resort offers an extraordinary getaway in the heart of Ubud. The breathtaking property seamlessly blends traditional Balinese architecture with modern comforts to create a 5* luxury experience for its guests. Facilities include a choice of swimming pools, world-class restaurants, and fully-equipped fitness centre & spa.
You can also check out many other accommodation options for Ubud here. Or use the Map below to see all your options:
What to do in Ubud
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Ubud has plenty of activities for you to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in and around Ubud.
Chase Waterfalls
Some of Bali’s best waterfalls are near Ubud, and if you’re keen for an adventure, this is a great way to spend the day. To get around them all, I suggest renting a scooter as you’ll also get to appreciate the scenic views as you drive. Some of our favourite waterfalls near Ubud include magical Tukad Cepung, picturesque Tibumana, and colossal Nungnung.
Tip – You can read everything you need to know about Ubud’s best waterfalls here.
Visit a Balinese Temple
The cultural centre-point of Bali, naturally, Ubud has temples and historical sites aplenty. Some such as the Saraswati Temple and Puru Gunung Lebeh are easily accessible when meandering Ubud Centre. Others are further afield, however, the ornate detail of Goa Gajah and Tirta Empul are worth the short trip out of town.
Take a Stroll Amid Nature
Ubud is one of the most picturesque locations in Bali, and there’s nothing better for the soul than getting out amidst nature. If you don’t fancy anything too strenuous, take a gentle stroll through the rice fields or head to Campuhan Ridge Walk. Otherwise, head to the Monkey Forest. Only, you might have to fend off the monkeys who have become accustomed to terrorising tourists. For something more adventurous, consider trekking Mount Batur for sunrise.
Pick up Some Souvenirs at Ubud Market
It’s easy to get carried away shopping at Ubud Market, as everything is so beautiful and unique. But, if you want to pick up some traditional Balinese souvenirs, consider locally made silver jewellery, traditional wood carvings, or a homemade Bali sarong.
Save Time and Book a Tour
For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on Get Your Guide:
Related Read
Gay in Uluwatu Guide
Akin to other destinations in Bali, Uluwatu is unlike anywhere else on the island. Rugged coastlines cling to tremendous limestone cliffs, while azure waters nestle pristine white sand beaches. Uluwatu is stunning, but not in a gentle way. Instead, its beauty is raw and almost intimidating.
Nevertheless, boasting the best beaches in Bali, a thriving surf culture, and a party scene to rival Ibiza, Uluwatu is arguably the trendiest tourist hub in Bali. And whether you’re an LGBT+ traveller or not, it’s worth factoring in some time during your Bali itinerary to explore this part of the island.
Gay-Friendly Hotels in Uluwatu
Again, there are no dedicated gay hotels in Uluwatu; however, LGBT+ travellers can expect a warm welcome at the following establishments.
Budget $ – Pecatu Guesthouse and Hostel – Boasting an outdoor pool and huge garden area, Pecatu Guesthouse is a great budget choice in Uluwatu. It’s particularly popular among the surfer crowd, and there is often a party atmosphere of an evening.
Mid-Range $$ – Pink Coco Bali – Located a stone’s throw away from the world-class surf breaks on Padang Padang beach, Pink Coco Bali is a peaceful resort in Uluwatu. Features include 2 swimming pools, stylish traditional rooms, and an on-sight restaurant.
Luxury $$$ – Renaissance Bali Uluwatu – For a touch of luxury on the Southern-Coast of Uluwatu, Renaissance Bali is a breathtaking property overlooking the Indian Ocean. Key features of the hotel include the incredible pool area, magnificent sunset views, and a fully-equipped wellness centre.
You can also check out many other accommodation options for Uluwatu here. Or use the Map below to see all your options:
Gay Bars in Uluwatu
While there are no specific gay bars in Uluwatu, you are unlikely to run into any trouble at these swanky beach bars and nightclubs.
Omnia Bali – Omnia is an exclusive beachfront day club, often hosting top global DJs and unrivalled parties. Expect to pay over the odds for drinks and food here; however, the entire club, from the decor to the ocean view, is designed to be a show-stopper.
Ulu Cliffhouse – Another beach bar making a name for itself amid the Uluwatu party scene is Ulu Cliffhouse. With a spectacular location overlooking the Indian ocean, and hosting world-class DJs such as Fatboy Slim, you’re guaranteed a day, and night, to remember.
Single Finn – A slightly more modest establishment in Uluwatu, Single Finn tends to attract a scruffy surfer crowd over fancy flashpackers. Nevertheless, it’s a great spot to catch a sunset beer and watch the surf below. As the night progresses, things get a bit more lively, particularly on a Wednesday & Sunday night.
What to do in Uluwatu
An off-beat haven for surfers and beach worshippers, let’s look at some of the top things to do in Uluwatu.
Check out the Beaches
Boasting some of Bali’s most Instagrammable beaches, naturally, this is the number one thing to do here. We loved spending our days in the South cruising along the coast and picking a random beach off the map to check out. This way, we found well-known beaches such as Suluban Beach and Padang Padang. At the same time, we discovered hidden gems such as Thomas Beach and Topan Beach.
Visit Karang Boma Cliff (Uluwatu Cliff)
Karang Boma Cliff is one of our favourite spots in Bali to watch the sunset. The 70-metre high limestone cliff looks right out over the ocean and allows you an unrivalled view of the southern coastline. If you’re scared of heights, you probably shouldn’t get too close to the edge. With a sheer drop to the ocean and rocks below, it’s not a place you want to get wobbly.
Check Out Uluwatu Temple
Considered one of the most significant cultural sites in Bali, impressive Uluwatu Temple is a must-visit during your time in the South. The temples date back as early as the 11th century, and we, for one, were mesmerised by the intricate and ornate details of the ancient architecture. What’s more, perched upon a 70-metre cliff, the vistas along the coastline are truly breathtaking.
Tip – Visit the temple during the late afternoon, watch the sunset and stick around to watch the mesmerising Kecak Fire Performance.
Save Time and Book a Tour
For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on Get Your Guide:
Gay in Bali – Other Places to Go
Again, Bali is a vast island, and unless you plan on spending 2-3 months there, it’s impossible to see it all. We chose the locations mentioned above based on how gay-friendly we found them to be. But, also because it allows you to see various sides of the island.
Like I say, there is no part of Bali that is out of bounds for LGBT+ travellers. We travelled the island extensively, and honestly, at no point did we feel uncomfortable. If anything, it was one of the places we’ve felt most free. With this in mind, if you do plan on exploring more of the island, these are some other places in Bali worth checking out.
The Nusa Islands
Up until a couple of years ago, the Nusa Islands were beneath the radar of most visitors coming to Bali. Today, they are considered a Bali hotspot, and not without a good reason. Famed for their dramatic landscapes and stunning natural beauty, life on the islands is a bit more rugged than the mainland.
Nusa Penida, in particular, is a spot for the adventurers. Here you can hike to stunning natural pools or beaches, and snorkel with the majestic manta rays. Nusa Lembongan, on the other hand, is a tad more developed and famous for its epic surf. Finally, you have Nusa Ceningan – the smaller island of the Nusa trio. This spot is known for its cliff jumping opportunities and is accessible via a day trip from Lembongan.
If the Nusa Islands sound up your street, this awesome article by Journey Era is the best Nusa Islands guide out there. Finally, check out our blog post for the cheapest way to travel from Bali to Nusa Penida via Ferry.
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Amed
Amed is probably the most underrated destination in all of Bali. And if you like to venture off the beaten path, this is the spot for you. Despite boasting the best dive sites in Bali, stunning natural landscapes, and an infectious laidback vibe, Amed remains somewhat of a hidden gem.
Personally, Amed is one of our favourite spots on the island. Bali can often feel a little pretentious, so we take pleasure in finding places that retain an authentic charm. Life in Amed is simple. It’s how I imagine Bali to be 20 or 30 years ago. No flashy hotels or restaurants obscure the town – just simple guesthouses and local warungs.
Amed is most famously known for its incredible diving opportunities; however, there are some excellent snorkelling spots too. Jemeluk Bay is the most popular snorkelling spot in Amed and is ideal for a calm and gentle snorkelling experience. The Amed coastline is especially unique with its black sand beach and tremendous figure of Mount Agung dominating the view.
Tip – Heading to Amed? Check out our blog post for 14 adventurous things to do in Amed and East Bali.
The Gili Islands
Geographically, the Gili Islands aren’t actually in Bali; however, the 3 tiny islands, just off the east coast of Lombok, do tend to make their way onto most Bali itineraries. The Gilis are famed for their palm-fringed beaches, azure waters, and epic diving opportunities. Many visitors also come here at the chance of seeing sea turtles, which often frequent the waters just metres out from the bay.
For LGBT+ travellers, the Gili Islands are another place where you can expect to feel free. That said, you’ll want to choose which of the 3 islands you visit wisely – as each offer a completely different vibe. Gili Trawangan is considered the party island and where all of the action happens. Gili Meno, on the other hand, is almost remote and provides an idyllic paradise getaway. Then you have Gili Air, which is a fine balance between the 2.
Check out Nomadic Boys Gay Travel Guide for the Gili Islands for a full low down on all 3 islands.
Gay in Bali – Tips & Advice
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, LGBT+ travellers need not avoid any part of Bali. Nevertheless, there are precautions that you should take when out exploring the island – just as a heterosexual person would. Here are some first-timers tips for visiting Bali.
Respect Social Etiquette
A sure-fire way to piss off the locals and make a bad name for tourists is by ignoring local customs and being disrespectful. The first thing we do before visiting any new destination is to educate ourselves on the local social etiquette. This way, we know what is appropriate in terms of what we wear, how we approach people, and how we act in general.
Many tourists visiting Bali make the mistake of assuming the local customs are very relaxed because it’s a popular tourist destination. When, in fact, the Balinese culture is quite conservative. Trip Savvy has some great advice on social etiquette in Bali, and we also suggest checking out our article regarding responsible travel.
Avoid Public Displays of Affection
You could say this falls under the category of respecting social etiquette; however, I want to point out that this isn’t only directed at LGBT+ travellers in Bali. Public displays of affection are discouraged even among straight couples. Having said that, with the current political situation surrounding the LGBT+ community in Indonesia, it is wise to be extra vigilant.
Staying Safe in Bali
As a whole, Bali is considered one of the safest places to travel in South East Asia. This is largely due to the heightened tourist infrastructure in place, which helps to keep you safe and well while enjoying your time on the island. That said, we always advise exercising caution when exploring any new destination.
First of all, it pays to make yourself aware of the common tourist scams in Bali, so consequently, you can avoid them. There is also the odd report of pickpocketing and bag snatching. But so long as you avoid dodgy areas or walking alone at night, you should encounter no trouble.
Motorbike accidents are common in Bali, and a lot of the time caused by inexperienced drivers trying to take on the congested roads. The roads in Bali are, for the most part, in excellent condition. But, if you aren’t confident on a bike, the traffic can be intimidating. Practice somewhere quiet before attempting the bigger roads, and always wear a helmet. You’ll also need an international drivers license should you be pulled over by the police.
Finally, be aware of natural hazards in Bali. The ocean currents can be strong, so only swim along beaches where it is safe to do so. You should also be vigilant when taking part in any adventurous activities. Come home with memories – not a nasty injury.
Travel Insurance
With that, don’t even think about going to Bali without travel insurance. Should you need health care while travelling in Bali, you will want the best money can buy. Travel Insurance could be your saving grace.
We always recommend World Nomads for travel insurance, as they are affordable, offer a variety of packages and add ons, and allow you to make amendments to your policy while travelling. Say, for example, you go scuba diving or hiking a mountain, World Nomads will amend your plan accordingly. It’s a super handy feature that we’ve used numerous times including the time we trekked to Annapurna Base Camp.
If you need further convincing, read our article on why you need travel insurance. Or get an on-the-spot quote from World Nomads using the form below.
Getting Around in Bali
Unless you are confident on a scooter, getting around in Bali can be an expensive ordeal. There is little to no public transport, and tourist buses are unheard of. Consequently, taxis and hiring drivers is often your only option. Unsurprisingly, local transport companies see this as an opportunity to cash in on some serious dollar.
On the other hand, if you can drive a scooter, this will be the cheapest and most convenient way to get around. To rent a scooter in Bali will set you back around 60,000 IDR per day. And it is usually possible to negotiate a discount if you rent for more extended periods.
Thankfully, the roads in Bali are for the most part in excellent condition and offer some scenic drives. Always wear your helmet, and carry an international license should you be pulled over by the local police.
If you are to move around by taxi in Bali, we recommend using Grab Taxi or Go Jek. The rates are usually far cheaper than local transport companies.
Best Time to Visit Bali
The best time to visit Bali depends on several factors. While many of us are familiar with the four seasons, Bali really only has two – the wet season and the dry season. Naturally, the dry season is most popular, as you are likely to experience dry and sunny days. However, the wet season often only sees short downpours. So if you don’t mind a few showers, it can sometimes be the best time to go!
Being close to the equator, Bali experiences warm, tropical conditions all year round. However, personally, we love visiting Bali during the rainy season, which runs from October to March. Prices are lower, there are fewer tourists, and the lush Balinese nature is at its peak. The only downside is the humidity, which can be abundant during this time of the year.
Dry seasons runs from April to late September. While there is always a chance of the odd rainy day, during this time you have the best chance of bright and sunny days. June to August is the high season in Bali, and the island gets incredibly busy during this time. With that comes inflated prices, congested roads, and crowded beaches, so we suggest avoiding this time if you can.
For more Bali travel tips, check out this comprehensive guide to Backpacking Bali.
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Meeting Other Gay People in Bali
Being an LGBT+ traveller in any new place can be a daunting prospect, so we find it helps to socialise with other LGBT people in the area. This way, you can share experiences, and perhaps they can answer any questions or concerns you might have. Of course, the gay-bars in Seminyak are a great place to meet other gay people in Bali; however, not everybody is confident enough to walk into a bar and make friends.
We suggest using social media to locate other LGBT travellers or locals in Bali. You can use Facebook, for example, to find LGBT groups in your area. Similarly, navigating specific hashtags on Instagram, such as #gaybali or #LGBTbali, can help to locate all things LGBT near you.
Similarly, dating apps can be a great way of connecting with like-minded people – and not necessarily for a hook-up. If you’re lucky, you could find yourself connecting with a local who can give you a full insider low down of the island. If you attempt to use gay dating apps such as Grindr, they will be blocked unless you use a secure VPN. We can recommend Ivacy, the worlds fastest VPN service, click here to sign up!
Enjoy Gay Bali
As an LGBT+ couple, we were grateful for finding an element of freedom in Bali. After travelling through Malaysia where homosexuality is illegal, and India where you arise curiosity from locals just for being foreign, Bali was a breath of fresh air.
Well, that concludes Gay in: Bali – A LGBTQ +Travel Guide. We hope you enjoy Bali and all that it has to offer.
We believe travel is for everyone, and with our guidance and useful resources, you can look forward to an incredible and, most importantly, a safe journey of a lifetime.
Stay adventurous and Happy travels.
Planning a trip around Bali? Check out our Indonesia series or our other LGBTQ+ Travel Guides for more travel tips and advice.
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Hiba
Saturday 2nd of September 2023
By Law it is not allowed. You were fortunate.