Bali with Kids: Your Updated Family Travel Guide (2025/26)

Bali has long been a favourite family holiday destination for South Australians, and it is easy to see why. It is close to home, relatively affordable, and packed with experiences that suit everyone from babies to teenagers. Whether you are planning your first overseas trip with kids or returning for another family adventure, Bali offers a relaxed and welcoming environment for travelling with children.

From calm beaches and family friendly resorts to wildlife parks and cultural experiences, Bali makes it surprisingly easy to holiday with kids, as long as you do a little planning before you go.

Travelling to Bali with Children

Entry requirements for Bali have changed over time, and it is important for families to be aware that every traveller now needs to complete the All Indonesia online declaration before arriving. This includes babies and children. The form combines customs, health and immigration details into one process and should be completed within a few days of arrival rather than weeks in advance. Once submitted, you will receive a QR code which you will need to show when you land.

Australian travellers also require a Visa on Arrival, which can be organised online or on arrival, and the Bali tourist levy is paid separately. As always, make sure passports have at least six months validity from your arrival date.

Where to Stay in Bali with Kids

Choosing the right area to stay can make a big difference when travelling with children. Sanur is often recommended for families with younger kids thanks to its calm beaches, footpaths and relaxed pace. Nusa Dua is another popular option, particularly for families who love resort style accommodation with pools, kids clubs and easy beach access.

Ubud appeals to families who enjoy nature and culture, with rice fields, wildlife experiences and a slower pace away from the beach. Seminyak or Legian can work well for families with older children who enjoy cafes, shopping and beach time, although it tends to be busier.

From our previous trips to Bali we can recommend:

• Samabe Villas, Nusa Dua – Our Nusa Dua pick for families who want space and privacy, with large villas, private pools and a calm resort setting that makes travelling with kids feel easy. See our full review here
• Grande Mirage, Nusa Dua – Ideal for families thanks to its all-inclusive options, kids club, multiple pools and activities that keep children entertained all day. See our full review here
• Holiday Inn, Baruna – A favourite with families for its beachfront location, family rooms, kids eat free perks and relaxed, child friendly atmosphere. Plus it’s just 5 minutes to the airport.
• Prime Plaza Suites, Sanur – Perfect for families needing room to spread out, offering apartment style accommodation, a great kids club and easy access to Sanur’s calm beaches.
• Bali InterContinental, Jimbaran Bay – Great choice for families who want a balance of luxury and kid friendly facilities, with spacious gardens, multiple pools and a welcoming family focus.
• Bali Mandira, Legian – is a beachfront family-friendly paradise, featuring lagoon-style pools with waterslides, a kids club, a beach club with ocean views, and warm Balinese hospitality all set within lush tropical gardens in an absolute perfect location.

Getting Around

Getting around Bali with kids is usually easiest with a private driver, especially for day trips or airport transfers. Many drivers are experienced with families and can provide car seats if requested in advance. We thoroughly recommend Gede as a private driver. He’s also great for recommending restaurants, day trip ideas, where to eat, where to go to buy particular things. Email gedem31@gmail.com or Facebook – www.facebook.com/gededriverbali or text him on +6281337570130.

If you only need to travel a short distance and don’t need a car seat, consider downloading a ride-sharing app like GOJEK or Grab. It’s like Uber in Australia. Pick-up is from your location, the fare is set upfront, and you can share your location with others for safety. You can even link your Wise card (more about this soon) to skip cash. Quick, easy, and a total lifesaver for getting around Bali with kids.

Staying Healthy & What to Pack

Pack a small medical kit with kids’ pain relief, insect repellent, band-aids, antihistamines, and any prescription medications. Other essentials include sunscreen (it’s expensive in Bali and you’ll need lots), pads or tampons (often hard to find), reusable water bottles (water is cheap but try to reduce plastic), hand sanitiser and antibacterial wipes, lightweight rain jackets or poncho (especially in the wet season), and a few comfort items for the kids.

There’s lots of talk about “Bali belly,” but honestly, this can happen anywhere. Practise good hygiene: use hand sanitiser before eating and after handling money, and never drink or brush your teeth with tap water. It’s not a reason to miss this beautiful place.

Travel insurance for the whole family is a must.

Things to Do in Bali with Kids

One of the biggest reasons families love Bali is the sheer variety of things to do. Waterbom Bali is a standout attraction, offering rides and play areas suitable for a wide range of ages. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the Bali Safari and Marine Park, Bali Zoo or the Bali Bird Park, all of which are popular with kids. Read our full review of these here

Beach days are a highlight for many families, particularly in areas like Sanur and Nusa Dua where the water is calmer. For something a little different, older children often enjoy cultural experiences such as visiting temples, exploring rice terraces or trying local craft workshops.

Eating Out as a Family

Eating out with kids in Bali is generally easy and enjoyable. Many cafes and restaurants cater specifically to families, offering kids menus, high chairs and familiar Western options alongside local dishes. Simple favourites like nasi goreng, satay and pancakes are usually happily gobbled up, and it is not uncommon to find cafes with play spaces that make mealtimes more relaxed.

If you’re not up for going out for dinner, Gojek makes it easy to have a wide variety of local and familiar meals delivered straight to your villa or hotel, which is perfect for tired little travellers.

Money in Bali

Cash is king in Bali, especially for markets, small shops, warungs, tours, and tipping, so it’s a good idea to always have some on hand. For larger restaurants, tourist attractions, and hotels, cards are widely accepted.

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). The easiest way to get cash is through authorized money changers in tourist areas. Look for real shops with a glass front door, always check the exchange rate online, and count your money carefully twice before leaving the counter. Avoid exchanging large amounts at airports or hotels, as the rates are usually less favourable.

The Wise card is your best friend in Bali. You can load money instantly from your bank, convert it to the currency you need, and use it overseas with low fees and fair exchange rates. It works for contactless payments, ATM withdrawals, and can even be added to Apple Wallet so multiple family members can use it. The app makes it easy to top up, check your balance, or freeze the card if needed, perfect for keeping your money safe while exploring Bali or anywhere else.

If you want to try it, my referral link gives you a free card or zero fees on a transfer up to A$1,000: https://wise.com/invite/irtc/sarahlouisec47

When Is the Best Time to Visit Bali with Kids?

The dry season, from May to September, is often considered the best time to visit Bali with children thanks to the lower humidity and more comfortable temperatures. The wetter months can still be a great time to travel, with warm weather and rain that usually falls in short bursts rather than all day.

Is Bali a Good Family Holiday Choice?

For many Australian families, Bali ticks all the boxes. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, caters well to children of all ages, and provides a gentle introduction to overseas travel. With the right preparation, Bali can be a memorable and enjoyable family holiday that keeps everyone happy. Check the links below for more information on specific places to stay and places to add to your itinerary.