Bali's activities for children range from high-energy adventure parks to peaceful beach exploration, cultural immersion to wildlife encounters. The challenge for parents is matching activities to your child's age, comfort level, and interests. This guide organizes Bali's premier family attractions by age group and interest type, so you can confidently plan days knowing your kids will be engaged, safe, and happy.
Important Note: Ethical Animal Interactions
Before diving into specific attractions: animal welfare is increasingly important. Some Bali animal venues (particularly elephant riding, dolphin shows, and certain zoos) raise ethical concerns. This guide identifies activities that prioritize animal wellbeing. We avoid recommending attractions known for poor animal conditions.
Water Parks (All Ages)
Waterbom Bali (Kuta) - Tier 1 Premium
Best For: All ages 2+; families wanting day-long water park experience
What It Is: Bali's flagship water park with 12+ slides ranging from toddler-safe to extreme adrenaline rides.
Specifics:
- Funtopia: Dedicated toddler area with shallow pools, gentle slides, water features
- Slides for All Ages: From beginner slides (standing starts, slow descents) to extreme drops
- Amenities: Lazy river, multiple pools, locker rentals, towel hire, food courts, cabana rentals
- Cleanliness: Exceptional; park is impeccably maintained
- Safety: Lifeguards present; excellent safety standards
Admission:
- Child (2–11 years): IDR 495,000 (USD $30 / AUD $46)
- Adult: IDR 610,000 (USD $37 / AUD $57)
- Family 4-pack (2 adults + 2 kids): IDR 2,100,000 (USD $130 / AUD $200)
- Advanced booking online saves 10%
What to Know:
- Arrive by 9am for shortest wait times
- Plan 4–5 hour visit minimum
- Bring waterproof phone case for photos
- Food expensive (typical waterpark markup); bring light snacks if permitted
- Private gazebos available for rent (USD $25–40/day for family group)
- Birthday packages available (from IDR 8.5 million / USD $520)
Why It's Great: One of Asia's best water parks. Facilities pristine. Activities for every age/skill level. No crowds compared to similar parks elsewhere.
Citraland Waterpark (Denpasar) - Tier 2 Budget
Best For: Families prioritizing value; younger kids
What It Is: Mid-sized water park with fewer slides than Waterbom but excellent value
Specifics:
- Multiple slides (focus on family-friendly rather than extreme)
- Lazy river
- Children's play area
- Less crowded than Waterbom
Admission:
- Much cheaper than Waterbom; typically IDR 50,000–150,000 per person depending on age
- Gazebo rentals: USD $5 AUD daily
Why It's Great: Budget option; kids don't know difference; saves money for other activities. Food cheaper than Waterbom. Less crowded = shorter wait times.
Splash Water Park & Other Smaller Parks
Similar concept to Citraland; various smaller parks scattered throughout Bali offer budget alternatives with adequate but fewer amenities.
Wildlife & Animal Encounters
Bali Zoo (Ubud) - Tier 1 Premium
Best For: Kids 4+; families wanting immersive wildlife experience
What It Is: 12-hectare zoo featuring 350+ animal species from Asia, Africa, Australia
Specifics:
- Animal Diversity: Tigers, elephants, Komodo dragons, orangutans, bears, primates, reptiles, birds
- Safari Tram Rides: Guided tram journeys through animal zones (optional but popular)
- Elephant Interactions: Hand-feeding, guided photo ops (riding available but ethically questionable; optional)
- Petting Zoo: Touch and hold small friendly animals (rabbits, guinea pigs)
- Animal Shows: Multiple daily shows with educational narration (tiger feeding, animal tricks, dance performances)
- Walking Paths: Shaded, zoo-keeper-guided walks explaining animals
- Facilities: Food courts, rest areas, clean restrooms
Admission:
- Child: IDR 150,000–180,000 (USD $9–11)
- Adult: IDR 180,000–250,000 (USD $11–15)
- Special programs (elephant rides, photo packages): Additional fees
Hours: 9am–6pm (Wed–Fri), 9am–8pm (Sat–Sun)
Why It's Great: Close to Ubud; excellent animal variety; quality shows; family atmosphere. Educational value. Kids remember tiger shows for years.
What to Know:
- Many visitors skip elephant riding (ethical concerns); hand-feeding and observation perfectly sufficient
- Arrive by 9:30am to see animals most active
- Plan 3–4 hour visit
- Expect heat; bring water, hats, sunscreen
- Photography included; staff help with photos
Bali Safari & Marine Park (Gianyar) - Tier 1 Premium
Best For: Kids 3+; families wanting larger-scale wildlife experience
What It Is: Large-scale animal park featuring 1,000+ animals with enclosed safari journey, petting zoo, shows, water play
Specifics:
- Safari Tram Journey: Signature attraction; enclosed vehicle tours through animal zones (giraffes, zebras, lions, Komodo dragons)
- Zones: Divided by animal origin (India, Africa, Indonesia endemic species)
- Petting Zoo: Hand-feed zebras, rabbits, goats under keeper supervision
- Animal Feeds: Scheduled feeding times let kids feed gentle creatures
- Fun Zone: Inflatable rides, water features, play equipment
- Night Safari: Evening tours seeing nocturnal animals active
- Shows: Daily performances (Bali Agung Show, Tiger Show, animal interactions)
- Facilities: Multiple rest areas, shaded zones, food courts, family-friendly atmosphere
Admission:
- Varies by activity tier; typically IDR 450,000–600,000 per person (USD $27–36)
- Additional charges for special experiences (elephant rides, photo packages)
Why It's Great: Larger scale than Bali Zoo; tram ride takes stress off walking (good for families with very young kids). Educational. Stroller-friendly paths. Multiple rest areas. Multiple days' worth of activities if staying locally.
What to Know:
- Less ethically problematic than many animal parks, but elephant experiences remain questionable
- Arrive early; park is large and experiences spread out
- Stroller-friendly main paths; baby carriers helpful on secondary trails
- Kids often leave soaked (water play areas); bring change of clothes
- Best visited without rushing (3–4 hours minimum)
Mason Elephant Park (Ubud) - Ethical Considerations
Status: Gold-accredited for Asian Captive Elephant Standards; more ethical than many Bali animal venues, but still controversial
Activities Available:
- General Admission (Most Recommended): Feeding untethered elephants, interaction with Mahout (trainers), photography. No riding.
- Elephant Bathing (Riding): Ride bareback while elephants splash in pools (ethically questionable)
- Elephant Washing: One-on-one experience hosing down and scrubbing elephants (less riding-intensive)
Ethical Assessment:
- Positives: Elephants rescued from worse conditions in Sumatra; good bonds with trainers; no-punishment policy stated; 6 calves born at sanctuary; transparent facility
- Negatives: Daily performance requirements; bullhook use controversial; riding involves training; limited return-to-wild prospects
Recommendation: If visiting, stick to general admission (feeding, interaction without riding). This provides interaction without riding-related concerns.
Admission: Varies; general admission typically USD $50–75 per person
Beach & Water Activities
Snorkeling Day Trips
Locations: Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida (nearby islands), Amed (East Bali)
Best For: Kids 5+ (with flotation aids); families comfortable in water
What It Is: Half-day or full-day boat tours to nearby islands with snorkeling in coral reefs
Specifics:
- Boat Journey: 30 minutes–1 hour to island
- Snorkeling: 1–2 hours in shallow reefs seeing tropical fish, sea turtles sometimes, coral formations
- Lunch: Usually included at island restaurant
- Return: Late afternoon return to departure point
Cost: USD $40–80 per person typically (kids often 50% off)
Why It's Great: Magical experiences; seeing tropical fish and reefs unforgettable for kids. Relatively safe (professional operators). Lunch included. Full-day adventure without requiring advanced skills.
What to Know:
- Seasickness possible; motion sickness medication available
- Kids must be comfortable in water; flotation aids provided
- Reef shoes recommended
- Sunscreen crucial; UV reflection off water intense
- Morning departures (6–7am); early wake-ups required
- Book through hotel or tour operators
Beach Clubs with Kids' Activities (Sundays)
Ku De Ta (Seminyak)
Best For: Kids 3+; families wanting beach club atmosphere with structured activity
What It Is: Sunday-themed beach club with free kids' activities
Activities:
- Face painting
- Jumping castles
- Balloon artistry
- Games and crafts
- Water features
Cost: Free kids' activities; parents purchase food/drinks (minimum consumption required)
Why It's Great: Structured activity; parents can relax with drinks while kids engage. Sunset views. Ocean swimming. Fun social atmosphere.
What to Know:
- Sundays only typically
- Activities usually 10am onward; arrive by 10am for best experience
- Bring swimsuits
- Budget USD $50–100 for parents' food/drinks
Cultural & Nature Activities
Tegalalang Rice Terraces Walk (Ubud)
Best For: Kids 3+; families wanting photogenic nature experience
What It Is: Famous staircase rice paddies with easy walking paths
Specifics:
- Entrance Fee: IDR 25,000 (USD $1.50)
- Walking: Easy, photo-friendly 20–40 minute walk through paddies
- Paths: Mostly flat; stroller-accessible on main paths
- Atmosphere: Scenic, peaceful, tourists present but not overwhelming if early
- Instagram Swings: Popular decorative swings for photos
Why It's Great: Iconic Bali experience. Easy walk. Stunning photos. Kids enjoy exploring "green stairs." Usually quick visit makes good addition to other activities.
What to Know:
- Visit 8–9am before tour buses arrive
- Comfortable walking shoes required
- Slippery when wet; avoid post-rain
- Minimal facilities; bring water
- Don't stray from marked paths (private property)
Monkey Forest Sanctuary (Ubud)
Best For: Kids 5+; families comfortable around wild animals
What It Is: Sacred temple complex in jungle setting with resident macaque monkeys
Specifics:
- Entrance Fee: IDR 80,000 (USD $5)
- Duration: 1–2 hours exploring
- Monkeys: Dozens of wild but habituated monkeys throughout sanctuary
- Temples: Multiple sacred temples within forest
- Jungle Walks: Shaded forest paths, river crossings
Critical Safety Notes:
- Monkeys Are Wild: They steal shiny objects, food, water bottles. Keep backpacks zipped. No loose items.
- Aggressive Moments: Monkeys occasionally snap at visitors. Guides help; generally safe with supervision.
- Kids Nervous About Animals: Consider skipping if child is frightened easily
Why It's Great: Unique experience. Spiritual atmosphere. Jungle setting magical. Kids usually entranced by monkeys.
What to Know:
- Visit early morning (7–8am) before crowds
- Keep valuables secured; don't hand-feed monkeys
- Wear secure shoes for slippery paths
- Hire local guide (USD $20–30 for 2 hours) for information and animal behavior context
- Skip if child has animal anxiety
Waterfalls & Waterfall Hikes
Tegenungan Waterfall (Ubud)
- Easy: Elevator access or 20-minute walk to waterfall
- Activity: Swimming in waterfall pools
- Cost: Minimal
- Best For: All ages
Gitgit Waterfall (North Bali)
- Moderate: 30–45 minute walk through village
- Activity: Swimming in natural pools
- Cost: USD $1–2 entry
- Best For: Kids 5+; more active families
Why It's Great: Refreshing on hot Bali days. Swimming in natural pools. Adventure feel.
Cooking Classes
Best For: Kids 6+; families interested in food/culture
What It Is: 3–4 hour class where family learns to cook Balinese dishes together
Typical Activities:
- Market visit: Local market tour learning about ingredients
- Class instruction: Balinese chef teaches preparation
- Cooking: Prepare sambal, satay, nasi goreng, curry, coconut desserts
- Lunch: Eat what you prepared together
- Recipes: Take home handwritten recipes
Cost: USD $40–80 per person (kids often 50% off)
Why It's Great: Educational, cultural immersion, fun family activity, takes home memories/recipes, surprisingly engaging even for picky eaters (they eat what they made).
What to Know:
- Book through hotels or tour operators
- Morning classes typically (8am–12pm)
- Arrive hungry
- Hands-on; kids genuinely participate
- Can be hot (Balinese kitchen conditions)
Traditional Dance Performances
Best For: Kids 4+; families wanting cultural experience
Performances Available:
- Legong Dance: Most famous; graceful, story-based, colorful costumes
- Barong Dance: Dramatic story performance, theatrical, exciting for kids
- Kecak Fire Dance: Fire performance with chanting at sunset temples (6pm or 7pm shows)
Typical Details:
- Duration: 60–90 minutes
- Admission: IDR 100,000–150,000 (USD $6–9)
- Timing: Evening performances (6–8pm typically)
- Attire: Traditional Indonesian dress recommended (sarongs provided)
Why It's Great: Authentic cultural exposure. Visually stunning. Kids usually captivated by stories and performance energy.
What to Know:
- Arrive 30 minutes early
- Kids' attention span: 6pm shows better for younger kids (outdoor sunset backdrop holds interest)
- 7pm shows more dramatic but later (post-dinner, possibly past kids' bedtime)
- Photography usually allowed
Adventure & Active Activities
Surfing Lessons (Ages 6+)
Best For: Kids 6+; families wanting active ocean experience
What It Is: Professional surf instruction for beginners
Lesson Structure:
- 30 minutes beach theory (technique, safety, board familiarization)
- 1.5–2 hours in water (paddling, standing, wave catching)
- Equipment provided (board, rash guard)
Lesson Locations:
- Canggu/Batu Bolong: Most popular beginner breaks
- Jimbaran Bay: Calm beach break; good for younger kids
- Sanur: Protected area; very beginner-friendly
Cost:
- Kids lessons (6–13 years): IDR 700,000–950,000 (USD $42–58)
- Includes transportation typically
- Multiple-lesson packages offer discounts
Why It's Great: Active, engaging, skill-building. Kids often hooked on surfing. Professional instruction keeps safe.
What to Know:
- Kids must be comfortable in water
- Morning lessons (high tide) best
- Aim for 3–5 lessons to build real skills
- Summer season (May–September) best waves
- Rash guards essential for sun protection
Bali Treetop Adventure Park (Bedugul)
Best For: Kids 7+; active families seeking adventure
What It Is: Forest-set adventure park with zip lines, rope bridges, climbing circuits
Specifics:
- Circuits: Multiple difficulty levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced)
- Activities: Zip lines, suspended rope bridges, climbing walls, rope courses
- Safety: Harnesses, helmets provided; trained staff supervision
- Duration: 2–4 hours depending on circuit difficulty
Cost: Typically USD $50–100 per person depending on circuit
Why It's Great: Safe adventure. Confidence-building. Physical engagement. Stunning forest setting.
What to Know:
- Early morning cooler and less crowded
- Go in dry season (May–October) if possible
- Kids need reasonable fitness/comfort with heights
- Staff very safety-conscious; reassuring for nervous kids
Less Structured/Free Activities
Beach Time
Best Beaches for Families:
- Sanur Beach: Calm, shallow, boardwalk, perfect for toddlers
- Nusa Dua Beach: Pristine, calm, resort access, excellent for young swimmers
- Seminyak Beach: Lively, sunset views, various beach clubs, good for older kids
- Lovina Beach: Calm, quiet, dolphin-watching departure point
Why It's Great: Free, naturally engaging for kids. Swimming, sand play, exploration, relaxation.
Markets & Shopping
Ubud Art Market: Wander handicraft stalls, kids pick small souvenirs
Night Markets: Street food, local atmosphere, exploration
Why It's Great: Cultural exposure, kids like exploring/choosing items, budget-friendly
Temple Visits
Tanah Lot Temple: Scenic clifftop temple, sunset viewing, easy walk
Cost: IDR 30,000–60,000 (USD $2–4)
Why It's Great: Cultural/spiritual experience, photogenic, manageable walk for kids
Activity Recommendations by Age
| Age | Best Activities | Skip |
|---|---|---|
| 2–4 years | Beach time, toddler water parks (Funtopia), stroller walks, rice terrace viewing, simple temples, local markets | Waterfalls (slippery), hiking, monkey forest (can be scary) |
| 5–8 years | Water parks, Bali Zoo, snorkeling, cooking classes, gentle hikes, cultural shows, surfing lessons | Extreme adventures, very early wakeups, long treks |
| 9–12 years | All water parks, Bali Safari, snorkeling, surfing, treetop adventure, waterfalls, more active hikes, cultural immersion | Extreme challenges beyond skill |
| 13+ Teens | All activities, plus extreme slides, longer hikes, mountain treks, serious surfing, adventure parks | Depends on teen interests; provide choice |
Final Activity Selection Strategy
First Day: Low-key beach time, local exploration—let kids adjust
Mid-Week: Major attractions (water parks, Bali Zoo/Safari, snorkeling day trips)
Mix In: Cooking class, cultural performance, nature walk, beach club
Final Days: Relaxation, beaches, revisit favorite activity
Pro Tips:
- Book activities 2–3 days ahead (popular ones fill)
- Hire driver for easy transportation between activities
- Plan downtime 1–3pm (heat, naps, pool time)
- Don't overschedule; Bali's best moments often unplanned
- Choose based on YOUR family's interests, not what "should" be done
Bali's activities are abundant and varied. Match your child's age and comfort level, prioritize what genuinely interests your family, and embrace spontaneity. The best memories often come from unplanned moments rather than scheduled tours.