Share
Bali’s popularity as a holiday destination has been on the rise for decades, with a reputation that has encompassed surfing mecca, health and wellness retreat, party central and foodie heaven. Its latest reincarnation is as a fabulously family-friendly destination, with a variety of attractions that are sure to keep everyone happy. Here are some of our favourites.
Wildlife
Bali Safari and Marine Park
Whilst you may not have associated Bali with an opportunity to see lions, zebras, and meerkats, these are just a few of the animals you will see during a visit to this open-air zoo, which is located roughly 30 kilometres from Kuta. You can ride the safari tram through the park and view the variety of animals in their free-range settings, or take the night safari to see the park, and its animals, in an entirely different light.
If you’re more interested in the local wildlife, a visit to the Turtle Conservation and Education Centre is a must. Here, the focus is on rescue, rehabilitation hatching and release of three local turtle species, and if you’re really lucky, you’ll get to take part in releasing baby turtles back to the ocean.
Food
25 minutes south of Ubud you’ll find Big Tree Farms Bamboo Chocolate Factory, which is just one more reason for foodies to love Bali. Big Tree Farms work with smallholders to produce coconut sugar and cacao products that reflects their fair trade and sustainability values. Take a tour of the factory (which happens to be the largest commercial bamboo structure in the world) and treat yourself to some delicious products.
If you’re in Ubud and the kids are getting hungry, head for Maha Restaurant for good quality local food and bunny cuddles. Yep, that’s right, while you enjoy your coffee and crepes, the kids can cuddle and feed the resident rabbits.
At Sea
Now you can introduce your kids to the world that lies beneath the water even if they’re not keen on snorkelling. The Seawalker Tour, which is located at Sanur and suitable for kids aged 9 years and older. It requires them to simply pop on a helmet with a clear visor that allows them to breath naturally, so that they can walk around on the sea bottom and see all kinds of marine life, from fish and turtles to brightly coloured coral.
Fun and Games
If you want the family to try their hand at traditional Balinese arts and crafts, take them to the Pondok Pekak Library and Learning Centre in Ubud. They offer classes in Balinese dance, music, wood carving and even in fruit carving… they’ll be whittling their own decorative watermelon flowers for your next dinner party! Courses generally run for one to three hours and are reasonably priced, plus you’ll be helping to support the operation of the library,
Your personal travel manager can help you plan a fun-filled Bali family holiday to suit your entire crew.
We at Travel Managers Australia recognise the traditional owners of the country where we live and work. We recognise and celebrate the diversity of Indigenous people and their enduring cultures and connections to the land and waters of New South Wales.
