9 Days in Bali with Kids: An Easy & Fun Family Itinerary

Bali is a top choice for Australian families looking for an island getaway. It’s close, affordable, and offers a unique cultural experience with plenty of fun activities. For a memorable and low-stress trip, consider a Bali with kids holiday.

If you’re looking for a holiday that’s not too hectic with the kids, a Bali getaway is a perfect choice!

This time, our family took on a 9-day, 8-night “Bali with kids” trip. We’re sharing everything: how we spent each day, the kid-friendly spots we visited, and the all-important budget breakdown. We hope to package all our experiences from this Bali with kids journey into one handy guide for your reference.

It’s the closest holiday destination for us, being just a short flight from Australia. No wonder Aussies go to Bali every year!

Why Bali with kids?

• Heaps of Variety: Bali offers a diverse mix of landscapes (beaches, volcanoes, and rice paddies) and cultural experiences (temples, dance shows), along with numerous parks and activities specifically designed for children. There’s something for everyone!
• Super Friendly: Balinese locals are incredibly welcoming to children, and many hotels and restaurants offer fantastic family-friendly facilities and services. You can even hire a local nanny for a great price!
• Easy to Get Around: Using a driver or the Grab ride-hailing app makes family travel a breeze, saving you the hassle of driving yourselves. Grab is an absolute lifesaver when you’re doing a Bali with kids holiday.
• Great Value: Compared to other popular island destinations, Bali’s overall cost of living is quite reasonable. This means you can plan a high-value bali with kids trip without blowing your budget.

Getting a picture with the goddesses after a free fire dance show at the Discovery Mall.

9-Day, 8-Night Bali with Kids Itinerary

For our 9-day, 8-night trip, we split our time between the chill beach vibes of Sanur, the lively hustle of Legian, and the luxury of Nusa Dua. This strategy was brilliant, as it cut down on travel time between locations and gave the kids more time to rest and play.

A map of our accommodation locations for our Bali with kids holiday.

We stayed at Mercure Sanur, Mercure Legian, and Novotel Nusa Dua, experiencing the unique charm of each area. We wanted to check out Ubud and Seminyak, but we didn’t have enough time. Next trip, for sure!

Daily Itinerary: Kid-Friendly Spots and Activities

Day 1 (28/4): Late-night arrival from Melbourne

We landed late in Bali and after a long airport process and an hour-long Grab ride (IDR 199,300), we finally reached our first hotel, the Mercure Sanur (4 nights for IDR 5,224,499).. By the time we checked in past 10 pm, everyone was exhausted and ready to crash.

All the luggage we took with us on our family holiday with two adults and two kids!

After booking an Executive Room, we were given a ground-floor room at the older hotel. We were a little spooked to find tiny crawlies when we opened the door. Since the hotel was fully booked, we had no choice but to stuff towels under the door to keep them out.

Day 2 (29/4): Exploring Sanur Beach and Local Food

Morning:  The breakfast at the hotel was a bargain with our Accor Plus discount. The best part was the dedicated play area next to the dining room—a perfect setup for families that makes it easy to see why Sanur is a top spot for Bali with kids.

The hotel breakfast area had a small play corner with toys and tables, which was a real lifesaver for parents!

Afternoon: With no loungers available on the beach, we headed to the hotel’s two large pools. The kids’ section was a hit—my eldest enjoyed floating solo for the first time, and the little one had a blast splashing around.

We spent the entire morning swimming in the hotel pool.

晚餐：We took a Grab (round-trip cost: IDR 26,800 + IDR 15,500) to the highly-rated Gong Restaurant (cost: IDR 974,050). We ordered the must-try Rijsttafel, a traditional Indonesian feast. It was a delicious banquet with a great vibe, and the prices were reasonable.

• Restaurant Info:View on Map

 

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Day 3 (30/4): Wild Encounters at Bali Safari

上午/下午：If you could only visit one attraction in Bali, we’d recommend the Bali Safari & Marine Park (Grab cost: IDR 163,800). Hopping on the air-conditioned Safari Bus, we got up close with tigers, elephants, and antelopes, making it feel like a true African safari. It’s a great experience for all ages!

The highlight was feeding a giraffe (IDR 220,000 for four) and an elephant (IDR 55,000 per person)—a truly unforgettable experience! The petting zoo was also a hit with the kids, who loved the rabbits, guinea pigs, and deer. The park’s design, resembling an ancient Balinese ruin, made for some fantastic photos.

A helpful tip for your visit: The park offers elephant shows and cultural performances, but you can skip them if you prefer. We found that buying our tickets through Klook with transfers was a better deal than purchasing them separately and using a Grab.

Lunch: Tsavo Lion Restaurant – Dining with Lions!

We were seated in the hippo area of the Tsavo Lion Restaurant, located within the Mara River Safari Lodge at Bali Safari, because we forgot to book ahead. It turned out to be brilliant, as the kids loved watching the animals from our table! We ordered a Nasi Goreng for about IDR 98K and a kids’ meal for IDR 49K. The food was decent, but the experience was the real highlight—my husband was even shocked by a spontaneous “wild animal reality TV show” when the lions appeared. Make sure you book ahead for the best seats!

• Restaurant Info:View on Map

Dinner: After a great day at the safari park, we took a Grab (IDR 136,000 + IDR 19,600 for the return trip) to Warung Saro (cost: IDR 530,250), a highly-rated local restaurant. From the street, it looks unassuming, but inside, it’s a beautiful, lively secret garden.

The restaurant, which sits below a creative studio and guesthouse, is a raised platform dining area where everyone sits cross-legged. Decorated with fish ponds and birdcages, it gives off a serene “dining in nature” vibe.

The food at Warung Saro is top-notch, and the Tempeh entree is a must-try. Although the kids’ meals were simple Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng, the overall price was a steal—we ordered three entrees, two mains, two kids’ meals, two juices, and a fruit platter for a cracking price. If you’re in Sanur, this place comes highly recommended.

• Restaurant Info:View on Map

Day 4 (1/5): Chillin’ at the Mall and Beach Walks

Morning: Rather than navigating crowded Ubud spots with kids, we opted for a relaxing morning at the hotel pool before heading to the beach. The weather and scenery were perfect. My husband, York, started a hilarious “burying dad” game, and the kids loved it. The beach is a lifesaver for families; unlimited sand play guarantees they’ll be exhausted and sleep well!

Afternoon: Beating the Heat at Icon Mall Bali

We spent the afternoon at the newly opened Icon Mall Bali (Grab cost: IDR 26,800). Opened in 2024, this modern, semi-open-air shopping centre is a great place to escape the heat. It has international brands and Japanese restaurants, making it a very familiar and comfy spot to walk around.

If you’re at the mall, make sure to visit Tukies Coconut Shop. Their coconut ice cream (IDR 30K for a scoop, IDR 45K with fruit) is deliciously creamy and not too sweet. For those who don’t want ice cream, their fresh coconut water is also a great option.

 

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The mall offers other great experiences, like the live fashion show with Balinese goddesses we were lucky to catch. We also loved the traditional snack stalls on the ground floor, which were designed like little boat huts, and the desserts we bought were surprisingly not too sweet. When travelling with kids, a perfect day is simply one where everyone is happy and smiling, regardless of the itinerary.

• Mall Info: View on Map

Late Afternoon: Beach Walk and Dinner

After the mall, we enjoyed a relaxed family walk along the three-kilometre beachfront path back to our hotel. The path, lined with resorts and restaurants, offered stunning sunset views. Whenever the kids got tired, we stopped to let them paddle and dig in the sand, enjoying the quiet Sanur atmosphere and the sound of the waves.

Dinner: Seagrass by the Beach (Dinner cost: IDR 507,000)

We had dinner at a Greek-themed restaurant right on the beach, which served croissants by day and local Indonesian food with live music at night. We ordered kids’ pasta, and the little ones were delighted. It was a simple, relaxing day without any major attractions, and it was exactly what we needed.

• Restaurant Info:View on Map

第五天(5/2)：轉戰雷吉安，享受飯店設施與特色水上餐廳

上午：飯店退房與入住雷吉安

Day 5 (2/5): Hello Legian, Hotel Fun, and a Floating Restaurant

Morning: Check out and move to Legian

After checking out of Mercure Sanur, we took a Grab to Legian (cost: IDR 78,300) and checked into our second hotel, Mercure Legian (2 nights for IDR 2,541,000). Thanks to our Accor Plus membership, we were upgraded to a room with a private pool, which was a sweet deal. This newer hotel was much brighter and more spacious, and we noticed a lot fewer mozzies in the city!

Lunch: Bale Udang Mang Engking, the Famous Floating Hut Restaurant

We were lucky to snag a bale (gazebo) at Bale Udang Mang Engking Kuta for lunch (IDR 877,800), known for its magical floating huts. We took a Grab there (round trip IDR 33,000 + IDR 29,900). The restaurant provides free fish food so you can feed the fish, and has high chairs with safety straps. The affordable food was a cracking deal—we ordered seafood fried rice, kids’ pasta, and a seafood platter for two that you eat with your hands.

• Restaurant Info: View on Map
• Ubud Branch: View on Map

Afternoon: Hotel Pool & Playroom

The hotel’s main family pool is a hit, offering a variety of floaties and toys, with a small playroom right next door for the kids to burn off energy. Its convenient location is a bonus, with a laundry service, massage parlours, and convenience stores all nearby, making it easy to grab a Grab into the city for dinner

Dinner at the Hotel

We had a fantastic dinner at the hotel restaurant, complete with live music and crayons for the kids. Our children quickly made friends with other Aussie families, and the great vibe made it clear why this hotel is so popular for families—no wonder another Aussie family said they’ve stayed here two years in a row! We can’t wait to go back.

Day 6 (3/5): Healthy Food, Fire Show & Beachside Dinner in Kuta

上午：衣物送洗與補給

Morning: Laundry & Supplies

First thing in the morning, we sorted out our laundry (cost: IDR 32,000, with a same-day option for an extra fee) and stocked up on water and beers (cost: IDR 47,000).

Lunch: Beach Bowl Bali Kuta

We found a cute cafe in Kuta called Beach Bowl Bali Kuta. They specialize in healthy, refreshing smoothie bowls and delicious zucchini noodles that even our kids loved. The cafe has a modern beach vibe and air conditioning, making it perfect for a hot afternoon. We would definitely go back.

• Restaurant Info: View on Map

Afternoon: Hotel Pool & a Relaxing Massage

After lunch, we went back to the hotel to enjoy our private pool. While the kids had their afternoon nap, I treated myself to a heavenly massage at the hotel spa (IDR 266,000).

Evening: Free Fire Show at Discovery Mall Bali

A friend recommended the free fire show at Discovery Mall Bali. The show starts at 6:30 PM. We got stuck in traffic and had to walk to the mall. The performance was brilliant, and the fire dancers were so good. It was definitely worth it for a free show.

• Mall Info: View on Map

Dinner: GIOI Ocean Gourmet

For dinner, we picked GIOI Ocean Gourmet, a restaurant by the beach inside the mall. On weekends, they have their own fire show and live music. They also gave the kids paper and crayons. With the beach view and music, the adults could relax while the kids were happily occupied.

餐廳資訊：點我看地圖

Day 7 (4/5): Floating Breakfast, Nusa Dua, and a Cracking Dinner

Morning: Floating Breakfast Dreams Come True

We finally had our highly anticipated floating breakfast at Mercure Legian (IRD400,000). Delivered on a huge floating tray, the meal included a massive spread of Indonesian or Western food, waffles, and drinks. The pool water was freezing, but we braved it for the photos.

The tray kept floating away and some food fell into the water, but it was a fantastic experience. The food was delicious, and the tray was so big that we could all share. It felt like a proper achievement when I managed to feed both kids in the pool.

 

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Midday/Afternoon: Checking into Novotel Nusa Dua & Beach Time

After checking out of Mercure Legian, we took a Grab to our last hotel (IDR 112,200): Novotel Nusa Dua Hotel & Residences (2 nights for IDR 3,420,000). With our Accor Plus membership, we were upgraded to a massive one-bedroom apartment with a living room and kitchen. The space was fantastic, and it even came with a free water dispenser.

Nusa Dua is Bali’s fancy area. It’s quiet, and there were noticeably fewer mosquitoes. The hotel isn’t right on the beach, but there’s a free shuttle every 15 minutes to their private beach club. There, you can find sun loungers, a restaurant, and even a beachside massage.

We headed to the beach just before sunset, and the kids had a blast splashing around. The hotel’s Kids Club is also brilliant, with an outdoor playground and organised activities for kids over four. It’s a top spot for families.

Dinner: Raja Bali Nusa Dua – The Best Satay in Bali

For dinner, we tried Raja Bali Nusa Dua (Food cost IDR 720,000). The restaurant offers a free pickup and drop-off service from the hotel, and the staff were so lovely to the kids.

Food recommendation: The satay here is absolutely divine! Our family of four ate a whopping 18 skewers. With the free shuttle, delicious food, and friendly staff, this dinner was a massive highlight of our trip.

• Restaurant Info: View on Map

Day 8 (5/5): Koral Restaurant Aquarium Experience & Hotel Relaxation

Lunch: Koral Restaurant at The Apurva Kempinski Bali

If you can only pick one restaurant in Bali, it has to be Koral Restaurant. This aquarium restaurant inside the five-star resort, The Apurva Kempinski Bali, is an incredible experience. For about IDR 1,200,000 per person, you get a six-course meal, making it one of the most affordable aquarium restaurants.

Tips for Dining: We highly recommend getting there early, right when it opens at 12 PM. While you can make a booking, the seating is first-come, first-served on the day. The earlier you get there, the better your view will be.

Meal Highlights: The meal was full of surprises, from appetizers served with dry ice to exquisite desserts and unlimited, delicious bread that the kids especially loved. At around IDR 600,000, the kids’ meal was a good deal, and there was plenty for the sisters to share with some extra bread. The thoughtful and friendly staff made the dining experience even better, leaving a lasting impression.

For a quieter dining experience, consider coming in the evening, as dinner seating is for adults only. Dining in the exclusive “Tunnel Area” doubles the price (starting from IDR 3,000,000 per person) and is restricted to guests 17 and older. Only guests in this area can take photos of the tunnel. However, the regular seating area is also fantastic for families. It’s very close to the aquarium, offering a relaxing and captivating view for kids to enjoy.

• Restaurant Info: View on Map
• Official Website: View Official Website

Afternoon: Leisurely Time at the Hotel Pool

After lunch, we returned to the hotel and enjoyed some quality time playing in the beautiful pool, soaking up the luxurious amenities of the Nusa Dua resort and giving the kids plenty of playtime.

Dinner: Raja Balinese Restaurant 

In the evening, we went to Raja Balinese Restaurant (dinner was half price at IDR 649,770, Grab fare was IDR 67,000 x 2 round trip). This restaurant is tucked away inside a five-star hotel, Nusa Dua Hotel, with extravagant decor that feels like an ancient Balinese palace. I celebrated my birthday here with friends eight years ago, and coming back with my family, the service was still impeccable.

The restaurant was a lifesaver, providing paper and pens for the kids to draw. We ordered a roasted chicken wrapped in a palm leaf, and the chef’s tableside carving added a sense of ceremony. The meal, which included rice and vegetables, was a steal. The appetizers were delicate and delicious, and we were even treated to complimentary amuse-bouche and dessert. The thoughtful service made us feel well taken care of from start to finish.

At the end of our meal, we were surprised to discover the restaurant is part of the Accor Group. With my Accor Plus card, we got a 50% discount! Our accidental trip to two “Raja” restaurants in Nusa Dua was a fun adventure, proving that sometimes getting a little lost leads to the best discoveries.

• Restaurant Info: View on Map

Day 9 (5/6): Farewell to Bali
Morning: Hotel Pool and Four-Hand Massage Experience

In the morning, we enjoyed a lavish breakfast at the hotel (cost IDR 260,000), which was half price with my Accor Plus membership card. Afterwards, we enjoyed one last leisurely moment at the hotel pool.

I had my first-ever four-hand massage (a one-hour four-hand massage plus a one-hour body scrub) at Zahra Spa. I pre-booked a free shuttle via WhatsApp, making the process seamless. The overall experience was great value at IDR 975,000. While I was relaxing, my husband had a parenting challenge at the hotel, which was made easier with the help of the attendants at the kids’ club.

• Zahra Spa Info: View on Map

Afternoon/Evening: Late Check-Out and Airport Lounge Dinner

To avoid the predicament of checking out early with kids and having nowhere to go, we took advantage of our American Express hotel membership and successfully extended our check-out time to 4 p.m., allowing us to enjoy the hotel facilities for half a day longer.

Before leaving the hotel, we had an early dinner at the hotel restaurant (cost IDR 377,520), also with a 50% discount from our Accor Plus membership card. While the food was decent but nothing special compared to the unique restaurants outside, it was a convenient option for us to grab a meal at the hotel before our flight.

In the evening, we took a Grab (cost IDR 159,700) to the airport and headed straight to the lounge for dinner. Our experience at the Concordia Lounge was surprisingly good. Although there was no alcohol, the hot matcha and the wide variety of food (the kids even fought over the fried noodles) left both adults and children feeling full and satisfied. Since we were flying with the budget airline Jetstar, being able to eat a hearty meal before boarding meant the kids fell asleep instantly on the plane.

Late Night: Farewell to Bali, Full of Memories

With a 9:30 p.m. flight, my husband worked his “baby-soothing magic,” getting our baby to sleep in ten minutes. She slept for four of the five hours, earning him praise as a “good dad!” from the woman in front of us.

We arrived in Melbourne at 5 a.m. to a cold wind that instantly woke us up. The whole family bundled up in thick jackets while we waited for the shuttle. Despite a few minor hiccups, this Bali trip was filled with laughter and precious memories. I think we’ll have to come back next year!

Bali Trip: A Complete Breakdown of Our Budget

Total Cost Overview: Our 9-day, 8-night family trip to Bali had a total main expense of approximately IDR 27,504,899 (around AUD$2,700), excluding airfare and miscellaneous items. This is a rough guide, as actual costs will vary based on individual preferences for hotels, dining, and activities.

Additional costs not included in our main categories were laundry (IDR 75,000 + IDR 32,000), supermarket shopping (IDR 49,447 + IDR 34,500), and massages (IDR 266,000 + IDR 250,000 + IDR 975,000). These are all actual expenditures that readers should factor into their budget when planning a similar trip.

Bali Travel Tips

Transportation: Grab vs. Private Car

In Bali, transportation is a crucial part of planning a trip. This time, we relied entirely on Grab and never booked a private car. This proved to be the most flexible and cost-effective option for a family with small children!

Why Choose Grab?

• Convenient and Transparent: Easily hail a Grab from the airport’s designated pick-up area, with clear, upfront pricing that avoids overcharging.
• Flexible: Perfect for families with kids, allowing you to change plans on the fly without a set driver’s schedule.
• Safe and Reliable: Grab has a strong complaint mechanism; we received a full refund after a driver took us to the wrong restaurant.
• Cashless and Comfortable: Pay easily by card, and enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned car, saving you from the heat and walking fatigue.
• Friendly Drivers: The drivers we met were generally friendly and spoke enough English for easy communication.

About Private Cars:

• Cost-Effective for Full Days: A private car is a better value for a packed itinerary with multiple distant attractions.
• Pricing: A full day costs approximately IDR 450,000–675,000, depending on the car type, duration, and distance.

A Guide to Laundry Services in Bali

• Affordable and Convenient: Laundry services in Bali are a lifesaver for families. At just IDR 7,000–13,500 per kg, many shops offer “wash and deliver” services directly to your hotel.
• Pro Tips for Finding a Laundromat: Use Google Maps to find a nearby shop. Contact them via WhatsApp to check prices, turnaround times, and delivery options before you go.

Pre-Trip Preparations:

• Passport and Visa: Check your passport’s validity (at least six months) and the latest visa regulations.
• Travel Insurance: Get comprehensive travel insurance for the whole family covering medical and luggage issues.
• Currency: Bring US dollars to exchange for Indonesian Rupiah locally for a better rate.
• Connectivity: Buy a Klook eSIM in advance to ensure you have data to contact your driver upon arrival.
• Essential Apps: Download Grab for transport and Google Maps for navigation.

Notes on Traveling with Children:

• Protective Gear: Pack high-SPF sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, and any essential children’s medicines.
• Mobility Tools: Bring a stroller or carrier for long distances and nap times.
• Comfort Items: Pack your children’s favorite snacks and toys for travel and wait times.
• Food Hygiene: Stick to bottled water and reputable restaurants to ensure food safety.
• Flexible Itinerary: Schedule rest periods and avoid overpacking your days to keep kids happy and well-rested.

Local Culture and Etiquette:

• Temple Visits: Respect the dress code by wearing long pants or a sarong to cover your shoulders and knees.
• Respect Customs: Be mindful of local beliefs, religious ceremonies, and the Balinese way of life.

Safety Reminders:

 

• Traffic Conditions: Bali’s traffic can be chaotic and prone to congestion. There are many motorcycles, and they drive fast, so be extra careful when crossing the street and hold your child’s hand tightly.
• Valuables: Take good care of your personal belongings. Avoid showing off wealth in crowded areas, and use the hotel safe for valuables.
• Wildlife: Be cautious of wild animals, especially the monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest. Do not provoke or feed them to avoid being scratched.

Conclusion:

This 9-day, 8-night trip was a wonderful memory for our family. Before having children, I didn’t fully appreciate Bali’s charm, but now with kids, I want to come back every year! I hope this detailed family itinerary and cost guide can help you plan your Bali trip. Be brave and take the first step—Bali will surely give your family a unique and unforgettable journey!

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