Where Bali Located?—Let’s Actually Pin It on the Map

When people around the world dream of pristine beaches, vibrant ceremonies, and exotic tropical adventures, one name rises above the rest: Bali. But for many travelers planning their first trip to this iconic destination, one basic question still comes up: Where is Bali located?

This article offers a complete, well-researched answer, diving into Bali’s geographical, political, and cultural context within Indonesia and Southeast Asia.

Where Bali located on the World map?

Bali is located in Southeast Asia, specifically within the archipelago of Indonesia. The island lies between Java to the west and Lombok to the east, placing it squarely within the Lesser Sunda Islands chain.

According to the Indonesian Geospatial Information Agency (BIG), Bali’s coordinates are approximately 8.3405° S latitude and 115.0920° E longitude. The island covers an area of around 5,780 square kilometers, making it about the same size as the state of Delaware in the United States.

In broader regional terms:

• To the north, Bali is bordered by the Bali Sea, which connects to the Java Sea and further into the South China Sea.
• To the south, it meets the Indian Ocean, giving Bali its famous surfing beaches like Uluwatu and Padang Padang.
• To the west, the Bali Strait separates the island from Java, Indonesia’s most populous island.
• To the east, the Lombok Strait connects Bali to Lombok and the Gili Islands, also popular with tourists.

Bali as a Province of Indonesia

Bali is not just an island — it is also a province within the Republic of Indonesia, which consists of over 17,000 islands. The province includes:

• The main island of Bali
• Smaller nearby islands like Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan

The capital of Bali is Denpasar, located in the southern part of the island. According to Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS), Denpasar had a population of over 726,000 people in 2023, making it the most densely populated city in the province.

Indonesia is divided into 38 provinces, and Bali is one of the few that functions as both a province and a highly recognized international tourism destination. The Balinese local government oversees tourism infrastructure, cultural preservation, and transportation policies, all of which contribute to the island’s appeal.

Political and Geographic Positioning in Indonesia

Indonesia is a unitary presidential constitutional republic and the world’s largest island nation. Bali is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, a group that stretches eastward from Java toward Timor. Unlike the larger Greater Sunda Islands (Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi), the Lesser Sunda group contains smaller, more fragmented islands.

Bali lies on the Wallace Line, a biogeographical boundary that separates the fauna of Asia and Australasia. This line affects not just biodiversity but also contributes to the unique ecosystem of the island, distinguishing it from both Java and Lombok.

Time Zone and International Access

Bali operates under Central Indonesia Time (WITA), which is UTC+8. This time zone is the same as Singapore, Western Australia, and parts of China.

The main entry point to Bali is Ngurah Rai International Airport (IATA code: DPS), also known as Denpasar International Airport. It is located near Kuta, just south of Denpasar city.

According to a 2023 report from the Ministry of Transportation Indonesia, the airport served more than 20 million passengers, with direct flights from:

• Asia (e.g., Singapore, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok)
• Australia (e.g., Perth, Sydney, Melbourne)
• Europe (via connecting hubs like Doha, Dubai, or Singapore)

This makes Bali one of the most accessible islands in the region for international tourism.

How to Actually Get to Bali Without Losing Your Mind

So you’ve figured out where Bali located—awesome. But how do you get there, especially if you’re coming from the U.S., Europe, or Australia?

From the U.S. or Canada, you’re looking at at least 20–30 hours in transit, depending on your layovers. Most people fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (also known as Denpasar Airport or DPS). It’s in the southern part of the island, near the popular areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Uluwatu. That’s where most of the action is if you’re into surf, nightlife, and lots of Australians (seriously, tons of Aussies).

If you’re flying from Europe, it’s not that much better time-wise. Usually around 18–24 hours. Flights typically stop over in big hubs like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Doha. The trick here is to plan your flights so your layover doesn’t leave you stuck in an airport for 12 hours eating Pringles for dinner.

From Australia though—y’all are lucky. Direct flights from Sydney, Perth, or Melbourne take around 3–6 hours. That’s like a weekend getaway, not even joking.

What Is Bali Known For?

Bali is more than just a tropical island—it’s a vibe, a feeling, and a place that sticks with you long after you’ve left. So, what exactly is Bali known for? Well, let’s just say it’s got a little something for everyone.

First up, the beaches. Whether you’re into surfing the legendary waves of Uluwatu, catching a sunset in Seminyak, or relaxing on the calm shores of Sanur, Bali’s coastlines are nothing short of stunning.

But it doesn’t stop there. Bali is also famous for its lush rice terraces, especially in places like Tegallalang and Jatiluwih. These emerald-green landscapes look like they’ve been lifted straight out of a postcard—and yep, they’re even better in real life.

Then there’s Balinese culture. From colorful temple ceremonies to traditional dance performances, the island has a deep spiritual soul that you can feel everywhere. Don’t be surprised if you stumble upon a local offering or ceremony in the middle of your walk—it’s just part of daily life here.

Let’s not forget the booming wellness scene. Think yoga in Ubud, healing retreats, organic cafés, and spa treatments that’ll make you forget what stress even feels like. It’s a wellness paradise for anyone looking to reset.

And of course, Bali is also known for its friendly locals, delicious food, and a wide range of budget to luxury accommodations. Whether you’re a backpacker, honeymooner, or digital nomad, Bali rolls out the welcome mat for everyone.

Why Geography Matters When Planning Your Bali Trip

Knowing where Bali is actually helps you plan smarter. Like, for real. The island isn’t that big—about 95 miles wide and 69 miles tall (yep, you could technically drive across in a few hours)—but the terrain is a whole thing. There are beaches, but also mountains, rice terraces, and jungles. And the traffic? Don’t even get me started.

If you’re staying in Ubud (which is central and known for yoga, artsy stuff, and monkey-filled forests), you’re looking at a good 1.5–2 hour drive from the airport. The roads twist, wind, and sometimes it feels like a moped might zoom between your knees. If you’re down in Canggu or Seminyak, that’s a bit easier, more like 30–45 minutes (depending on whether the traffic gods are smiling at you).

I once made the mistake of booking a villa in Amed, which is stunning and peaceful, but it took us nearly 4 hours to get there. After a 20-hour flight. Rookie mistake. My back has never forgiven me.

Bali Time Zones and Travel Planning Logistics (Because Jet Lag Is Real)

So here’s a bit of info that might mess with your brain: Bali is in the Central Indonesia Time Zone (WITA), which is UTC +8. That’s the same as Singapore and Perth, but one hour ahead of Jakarta, which is weird considering it’s the same country. Indonesia actually spans three time zones. Told you it was big.

What does this mean for you? Jet lag, probably. If you’re flying in from New York, you’re flipping your entire day around. Like, I landed at 11 AM local time and it felt like 11 PM in my head. I was half-conscious eating nasi goreng in a beach warung trying to stay awake. If you can, try to sleep on the plane. Or at least pretend to.

Also, it’s handy to know that most local shops open late and close late. Stuff doesn’t really start happening till 10 AM. So you don’t need to set an alarm. Sleep in, grab a smoothie bowl, and start your day Bali-style.

Check also: Scooter Rental In Bali

Bali’s Place in the Indonesian Archipelago—Yes, It’s That Big

Indonesia is made up of thousands of islands, and Bali is just one of them—but it’s definitely one of the most popular with tourists. It’s located between Java (to the west) and Lombok (to the east), kind of right in the middle of the southern chain. The whole area is called the Lesser Sunda Islands, in case you’re curious.

This region is known for its volcanic activity (hello, Mount Agung) and insane biodiversity. I mean, you could be snorkeling with manta rays in Nusa Penida in the morning, hiking a volcano by late afternoon, and dancing under the stars in Canggu by night. It’s bananas.

Also, if you’re into diving or marine life, knowing where Bali located is key. You’re smack in the middle of the Coral Triangle. That’s the global center of marine biodiversity. Think of it as the Amazon Rainforest of the sea. You’ll see stuff here that you just don’t see anywhere else.

Don’t Confuse Bali With Its Neighbors—They’re Different, I Promise

People often lump Bali in with other islands nearby. Lombok, Java, the Gili Islands, even Komodo—these all get mixed up, but they’re very different.

Java is super busy, industrial, and has Jakarta (Indonesia’s capital) and cities like Yogyakarta that are rich in culture and history. It’s where Borobudur and Prambanan temples are.

Lombok is more chill, less touristy, and honestly a bit more rugged. It’s great if you want fewer crowds.

Gili Islands? No cars, all bikes and horse carts. Super tiny and perfect for a quiet few days or diving.

Knowing this helps when you’re planning your route. Like, I once booked a stay in Ubud and figured I’d “just hop over” to Gili Trawangan for a couple nights. Well… it took us 7 hours of transit. I underestimated the ferry schedule and overestimated my energy. Still worth it, but wow—lesson learned.

What Kind of Climate to Expect in Bali—Hot, Humid, and Kind of Predictable

So here’s what the weather’s like: it’s tropical. Think hot, humid, and sticky most of the time. But not in a gross way—it’s more like… a constant hug from the air. The average temperature hangs around 80-85°F (27–29°C), but it can feel hotter thanks to the humidity.

There are only two seasons: dry season (April to October) and wet season (November to March). Dry season is the best time to go if you’re planning beach days, surfing, or doing anything outside. Wet season doesn’t mean non-stop rain, but it does mean you’ll probably get dumped on for a couple hours a day. Sometimes it just rains at night though, so it’s not always a dealbreaker.

Also—fun fact—I didn’t pack any long sleeves the first time I went. Big mistake. The sun in Bali is intense. We’re talking UV index of 11+ kind of intense. Sunscreen is a must. And bring a sarong or a light long-sleeve for when you’re out exploring temples or trying not to get roasted.

Check also: Bali private driver

Bali’s Layout—Where Stuff Is and Why It Matters

Understanding where Bali located on the map is one thing, but knowing how the island’s laid out? That’s gold.

So here’s a super basic breakdown:

• South Bali – This is where most of the tourists go. You’ve got Kuta (cheap, party-heavy), Seminyak (upscale, trendy), Canggu (digital nomads, surf, rice fields), and Uluwatu (cliffs, surf spots, killer sunsets). Also the airport’s here.
• Central Bali – Home of Ubud. It’s artsy, spiritual, a bit cooler (elevation-wise), and surrounded by rice terraces and jungle. This is yoga-central.
• North Bali – Quieter, more traditional, with places like Lovina (black sand beaches, dolphin watching) and waterfalls tucked away in the hills.
• East Bali – Mount Agung, Amed (diving), and peaceful beach towns. A bit far out, but worth the trip if you want peace and snorkeling.
• West Bali – Least developed and way more wild. West Bali National Park is here. Hardly any tourists. I went once and felt like I’d stumbled into a nature documentary.

This layout really affects travel time. Even though Bali isn’t huge, getting from Canggu to Amed could take you 4–5 hours with traffic. It ain’t like driving across town. Always give yourself more time than Google Maps tells you. Bali runs on its own kind of clock.

Climate and Weather in Bali

One of the most important aspects of where Bali located is its tropical climate. Bali’s position just south of the equator gives it warm temperatures throughout the year. The island doesn’t experience the extreme variations in weather that other parts of the world do. Instead, Bali enjoys consistent warmth, with average temperatures ranging between 24°C (75°F) and 30°C (86°F) year-round. This makes Bali a great destination for those looking to escape the cold or enjoy sun-filled days no matter when they visit.

Bali experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season runs from May to September, which is when Bali sees the least amount of rain. During this time, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and beach visits. This is also the high season for tourists, as people flock to Bali to take advantage of the sunny, clear days.

On the other hand, the rainy season in Bali lasts from October to April. While it rains more during this time, the showers are often short, heavy bursts, rather than long, continuous rain. Even though Bali gets more rain in these months, the island remains warm and lush, making it a great time for exploring Bali’s green landscapes and rice terraces. The lower number of tourists during the rainy season also means quieter beaches and less crowded attractions.

Bali’s location also affects its microclimates. For example, areas near the coast tend to be hotter and drier, while the central highlands, such as Ubud, have cooler temperatures due to the altitude. The surrounding ocean helps keep the island’s weather mild and more predictable, which is one reason why Bali is such a popular year-round destination.

Check also: Self-Driving Versus Hiring a Driver in Bali

How Bali’s Cultural Geography Shapes Your Travel Plans

One thing a lot of folks don’t realize until they’re actually in Bali is how different each area feels. The vibe changes depending on where you are, and that has everything to do with how Balinese culture is spread across the island.

Bali is majority Hindu, unlike the rest of Indonesia, which is mostly Muslim. That alone gives the island a really distinct atmosphere. You’ll see temples everywhere—like, literally every few hundred feet there’s a shrine or offering laid out on the sidewalk. I tripped over more than one my first trip. It’s part of daily life there, and honestly, it’s beautiful to witness.

Certain towns are known for specific things. Ubud is the heart of spirituality and art. Think traditional dance performances, yoga studios on every corner, and tons of galleries. You wanna find yourself, drink green juice, and take a sound bath in a bamboo dome? Go to Ubud.

Then you’ve got Canggu—on the surface it’s a surf town, but it’s also the digital nomad capital of Bali. Coffee shops double as coworking spaces, and everybody’s got a MacBook and an online hustle. You’ll hear more English than Indonesian in some spots, which makes it easier to settle in if you’re a first-timer or solo traveler.

In the more rural parts—like Sidemen in East Bali or the north around Singaraja—things are slower and more traditional. Here’s where you’ll actually hear Balinese being spoken instead of Indonesian, see ceremonies that tourists usually don’t witness, and have a chance to chat with locals who aren’t trying to sell you surf lessons. Not knocking the surf lessons—just sayin’ it’s a different scene.

And just a heads-up: ceremonies happen all the time. Sometimes roads are closed. Sometimes traffic halts for 30 minutes while a procession goes by. You just go with it. That’s part of Bali too.

What Language Do They Speak in Bali? (And Should You Learn Some?)

Alright, quick breakdown here because this is something that confused me on my first trip too. Bali is part of Indonesia, so the national language is Bahasa Indonesia. But, Balinese people also speak their own language—Balinese, which is totally separate. Most locals grow up bilingual.

You don’t need to speak either to get around, especially in touristy areas where English is pretty widely understood. But lemme tell ya, learning just a few basic words goes a long way. People really light up when you make the effort.

Try these:

• “Terima kasih” (tuh-REE-mah KAH-see) – Thank you
• “Selamat pagi” (suh-LAH-maht PAH-gee) – Good morning
• “Tolong” (TOH-long) – Please or Help
• “Tidak” (TEE-dahk) – No
• “Ya” (YAH) – Yes

I once had a taxi driver burst out laughing when I tried to say “bagus” (means “great”) and accidentally said “bagul.” Apparently, that means something entirely different in Balinese slang. Still not sure what, but he laughed the entire ride to the airport. Worth it.

Bali’s Currency, Costs, and Why You’ll Feel Like a Millionaire (But You’re Not)

Bali uses the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), and yeah, the numbers can get a little nutty. As of now, 1 USD is around 15,000 IDR. So when you exchange like $100, you’ll be holding over a million rupiah. Not joking. First time I withdrew money from the ATM, I thought I broke it.

This can really mess with your brain for the first few days. A bottle of water might be 5,000 rupiah, a nice dinner for two might cost 200,000, and a ride across town could be 60,000. It sounds like Monopoly money, but it adds up fast if you’re not paying attention.

And while Bali is often described as “cheap,” that really depends where you go and how you travel. You can definitely do it on a budget—guesthouses for $15/night, meals for under $5, local transport via scooters or GoJek (kind of like their version of Uber)—but the high-end stuff? Oh, it’s there. You can drop $500 a night on a private villa in Uluwatu without blinking.

Cash is king in a lot of places. Especially the small warungs (local restaurants), markets, or if you’re buying fruit from a roadside stand. Keep small bills handy. A lot of shops won’t break 100,000 notes, which is roughly $6.50 USD, so don’t expect them to swap that for a 5,000 bottle of soda.

Bali Isn’t Just One Island—Why You Might Want to Hop Around

When most people think of Bali, they picture the island. But actually, the province of Bali includes a few smaller islands that are totally worth checking out. The main ones are Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida. You can reach them by fast boat in about 30–45 minutes from Sanur or Padang Bai.

Each one’s got a different feel. Lembongan is laid-back, with cozy beach shacks and chilled-out surf spots. Ceningan’s the tiniest and has those bright yellow bridges that everyone takes photos on. Penida? Penida is dramatic cliffs, huge waves, and some of the best snorkeling I’ve ever done. (Saw a manta ray there once the size of my rental car back home.)

If you’re planning your trip, knowing where Bali located in relation to these side islands helps you plan smarter. These aren’t day trips from Ubud. You’ll want to stay at least one or two nights. And keep in mind: the boats don’t always run if the weather’s rough. So have a backup plan.

Final Look at the Island’s Setup (But Not Like a Summary, Don’t Worry)

Okay, so here’s the thing that’s stuck with me after a few trips to Bali: the island’s geography isn’t just about maps and directions. It’s about how everything feels. You don’t realize how much the location of a town affects the kind of trip you have until you’ve spent an afternoon sweating in a taxi because you stayed in Uluwatu and booked a spa treatment in Ubud. That’s a three-hour haul, easy.

Start in the south if it’s your first trip. Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu—it’s got all the things. Then maybe spend a few days in Ubud to slow down and tap into the spiritual side. If you’ve got time, do the Nusas or head up north. But don’t try to do it all. Bali looks small, but the roads, the ceremonies, the heat—they all slow you down. And honestly? That’s part of what makes it awesome.

FAQ: Where is Bali?