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Things to Do in Nusa Dua

Things to Do in Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua Bali, Indonesia Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Nusa Dua and its immediate vicinity, notably Tanjung Benoa, are hubs for water-based activities.

Water Sports Hub: Tanjung Benoa

Jet Skiing

Available with an instructor for a secure ride.

Parasailing

Offers solo or tandem options for aerial views of the coastline.

Banana Boat/Donut Boat

Fun group activities on inflatable tubes towed by a speedboat.

Underwater & Air Thrills

  • Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Dive operators offer trips to nearby reefs or dive sites like Nusa Penida.
  • Seawalker: Walk underwater on the seabed with a special Helmet providing air. Ideal for non-divers.
  • Flyboarding: Water jets propel you into the air, an adrenaline-pumping activity.
  • Glass Bottom Boat to Turtle Island: A short boat trip to a sea turtle conservation center.

Surfing Opportunities

  • Nusa Dua has some reef breaks for experienced surfers.
  • Suitable during the wet season.
  • Beginners typically go to Kuta or Seminyak for easier beach breaks.
  • Classes on how to surf are available from local schools.

Golfing Excursions

  • Bali National Golf Club: An 18-hole championship course.
  • Located within the Nusa Dua area ITDC complex.
  • Offers a challenging plus charming golfing experience.
  • A world-class facility for golf enthusiasts.

Cycling & Wildlife

  • Cycling along the Nusa Dua Beach Promenade is a pleasant activity.
  • Some resorts offer bike rentals for exploring the local area.
  • Turtle Island conservation center offers a small wildlife encounter.
  • Observe local birdlife in resort gardens.

Safety Reminder

For activities on the water, bring a Rash Guard for sun and a waterproof Dry Bag for valuables.

Cultural Immersion

Nusa Dua has opportunities to experience Balinese and Indonesian culture, mainly through performances and resort activities.

Cultural Performances

  • Devdan Show: Spectacle of Indonesian culture through dance and acrobatics.
  • Resort Performances: Regular Balinese dance (Legong, Barong) and gamelan music during dinners.
  • Cultural Evenings: Convenient ways to enjoy local craftsmanship at your accommodation.
  • Cultural Festivals: Major Balinese Hindu festivals observed island-wide. Dates change.

Workshops & Learning

Cooking Classes

Some resorts offer Balinese cooking classes. For dives, consider day trips to Ubud or Sanur schools.

Art & Craft Workshops

Less common in Nusa Dua. Day trips to Ubud for painting, wood carving, silver smithing, or batik are suggested.

Language Learning

Learn basic Indonesian phrases from guidebooks or translation apps. Resorts may offer intro sessions.

Community Interaction

Community-based tourism initiatives are less prevalent in Nusa Dua's insulated resort environment. More common in rural Bali.

Traditional Arts

Many resorts showcase traditional Balinese architecture and art, enriching your stay with local aesthetics.

Ethical Engagement

Engage respectfully with local customs and traditions during your visit for a meaningful experience.

Relaxation & Wellness

Nusa Dua is a prime spot for relaxation and wellness, with many world-class spas.

Premier Spa & Wellness

  • World-Class Spas: Almost every 5-star resort provides extensive, high-end spa services.
  • Diverse Treatments: Traditional Balinese massages, aromatherapy, facials, holistic therapies.
  • Recommended Spas: The Mulia Spa, Iridium Spa at St. Regis, The Ritz-Carlton Spa.
  • Traditional Healing: Some spas incorporate Balinese rituals and ingredients.

Natural Therapies & Yoga

Hot Springs

Not in Nusa Dua, but central Bali offers natural hot springs (e.g., Banjar Hot Springs).

Yoga & Meditation

Some resorts feature daily yoga classes (e.g., beachfront yoga) or wellness programs. Ubud offers dedicated retreats.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Luxurious Settings

Many resorts feature opulent beach clubs and expansive pool areas with stylish designs.

Comfort & Service

Cabanas, chaise lounges, and poolside service ensure utmost comfort for guests.

Relaxation Hub

Ideal spots for unwinding, sunbathing, and enjoying refreshing drinks.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Nusa Dua’s nightlife is generally relaxed compared to other parts of Bali, with a focus on serene evening experiences.

Live Music Venues

  • Resort Bars & Lounges: Main spots for live music, typically having local bands.
  • Music Styles: International pop, jazz, or acoustic sets for pleasant evenings.
  • Lively Nightlife: For active nightlife, Kuta or Seminyak are a 45-60 minute drive away.
  • Resort bars offer sophisticated cocktails and elegant atmosphere.

Bar Districts & Late-Night Options

No Dedicated Bar District

No dedicated bar district or guided pub tours exist in Nusa Dua. Focus on resort bars.

Limited Late-Night Entertainment

Limited to hotel bars and a few standalone eateries that may stay open later.

Seek Other Areas for Lively Nights

If you seek lively late-night entertainment, consider a trip to Kuta or Seminyak.

Traditional Markets

Not a feature of Nusa Dua area itself. For an authentic local market experience, visit Pasar Badung (Denpasar) or Pasar Sindu (Sanur).

Artisan Workshops

While some shops in Bali Collection sell crafts, for authentic workshops or direct artisan interaction, a day trip to Ubud or specific villages is suggested.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Balinese Crafts: carved wood, intricate silver jewelry.
  • Batik fabrics, traditional paintings.
  • Coffee: Balinese Arabica cup of coffee.
  • Sarongs: Beautiful and practical fabrics.

Shopping & Ethical Guidelines

Luxury & Boutique Shopping
  • Bali Collection: Primary shopping complex, mix of international brands, local boutiques.
  • Resort Boutiques: Many high-end resorts have their own selling luxury items.
  • Dining Options: Open-air setting with various eateries.
Ethical Shopping Guidelines
  • Support Local Artisans: Purchase directly from small local shops.
  • Avoid Exploitation: Be mindful of products using child labor or from endangered species.
  • Bargaining: Polite bargaining is an element of the experience in local markets.

Shopping & Entertainment Summary

Shopping caters to resort guests, centered at Bali Collection. Nightlife is subdued, usually within resort premises.

Activity Planning Summary

Adventure Considerations

  • Water sports are focused in Tanjung Benoa for variety and excitement.
  • Day trips are required for ancient heritage sites like Uluwatu or Tanah Lot.
  • Cultural performances are found in resorts or at the Devdan Show.
  • Wellness and spa treatments are a prominent feature of the resort experience.

Shopping & Nightlife Overview

  • Shopping concentrates on Bali Collection for souvenirs and upscale items.
  • Nightlife is easy-going, mainly within resort bars, quieter than other Bali areas.
  • Diverse dining from fine dining to local warungs, with dietary options.