Bali is an incredibly popular LGBT-friendly destination that makes an ideal stopover at the beginning or end of a trip to Vietnam or Cambodia. Every year, more than five million people visit this island paradise. Just a three to four-hour flight away, Bali has a very relaxed attitude in comparison to its neighboring Muslim country, Indonesia. Bali, however, is predominantly Hindu and is very liberal — being gay is not just tolerated, it is celebrated.
There is so much to take in, from the majestic waterfalls to the rugged coastline and the vibrant and colorful nightlife. Make your vacation one to remember with a trip to the beautiful and spiritual island of Bali.
(Bulgari Resort Uluwatu)
Relaxation in Uluwatu
Located on the Bukit Peninsula is Bali’s most popular area is Uluwatu. It has some of the best beaches in the area and a number of truly luxurious resorts where you can stay. Make sure that you spend some time down on the coast, swimming, surfing and enjoying the sunshine. Padang Padang, Thomas Beach and Bingin Beach are three of the best in the Uluwatu area.
Hire some sunloungers and enjoy watching the world go by. It is worth noting whilst you are on the beach, PDA is very much frowned upon, whether you are gay or straight. Whilst you are in Uluwatu, it is worth visiting the historic Uluwatu Temple, which is set right on the edge of the cliffs, overlooking the crystal blue ocean. This Balinese Sea Temple is a spiritual haven — you can see the amazing Ganesh statutes, watch a Balinese traditional dance at sunset and spend time with the wild monkeys.
Party in Seminyak
Seminyak is definitely one of the most vibrant towns in Bali and there is an active gay scene. Here you will find gay bars and drag shows where everyone is welcomed with open arms. There are also plenty of LGBT-friendly hotels and beaches. Seminyak is not really a budget destination — the majority of the hotels and villas are set up for luxury travellers. Along the Jalan Camplung Tanduk Arcade are three of the best gay bars in Bali. Face Bar is great fun, with regular go-go dancers and drag shows — it is definitely a great place to visit after midnight. Bali Joe is your go-to place on weekends, where you can enjoy dancing to some classic tunes, and Mixwell is the most popular with the LGBT crowd, both for the music and the flamboyant entertainment.
Visit cultural Ubud
On the other end of the spectrum from Seminak is the creative and cultural hub of Ubud. This is Bali at its most authentic. Here, you can take in the rice paddies, breathtaking jungles filled with wildlife and the incredible waterfalls. Ubud is as near to paradise as you will find on Earth. If you want to connect with your spiritual side and meditate in the temples, then this is the place. Again, Ubud is incredibly accepting of LGBT travelers — you can feel at ease here.
Bali is a wonderful stopover destination to visit at the beginning or the end of your cruise. You can make your vacation one to remember forever.