Bali has many faces. Beyond the famous hotspots and iconic temples, the island is full of places where mass tourism has barely arrived. Quiet beaches, pristine nature and historical sites where you can truly feel the soul of Bali. In this first part, we take you to several lesser-known gems, perfect for travelers looking for something different.

On Bali’s north coast, just east of Singaraja, lies Pantai Kerobokan. No trendy beach clubs or rows of sunbeds, but a local beach where daily life unfolds at an easy pace. The beach takes its name from the nearby village of Kerobokan, and from the main road you drive along a quiet route past local homes, small businesses and rice fields before reaching the sea.

At the end of the road you will find the beach, a small village temple and a simple parking area with a small entrance fee. Pantai Kerobokan is especially popular with locals, particularly on weekends when families gather here to relax.

The beach itself is surprisingly charming. Traditional fishing boats rest on the dark volcanic sand, and the area feels clean and peaceful. Several simple warungs and gazebos are scattered along the shore, making it an ideal place to sit down and enjoy a meal. This is one of the best spots to try ikan bakar, freshly grilled fish prepared in the traditional way and served at local prices. Towards the end of the day, the atmosphere becomes wonderfully relaxed as the sun begins to set.

Menjangan Island is located in western Bali and is part of the Bali Barat National Park. This protected area covers around 19,000 hectares and is renowned for its spectacular underwater world. While snorkeling and diving trips are well organized, Menjangan remains relatively unknown to many travelers.

From Lovina, Menjangan is easily visited as a day trip. An early morning departure takes you to Sumberkima, where you board a boat to the island. The crossing takes about thirty minutes and follows the rugged coastline of West Bali.

Once you arrive, the snorkeling adventure begins. Conditions determine the exact snorkeling spots, as there are several locations around the island. You often snorkel with the current, making the experience relaxed and effortless, while enjoying crystal-clear water, colorful coral and tropical fish. Visibility is excellent, and marine life is abundant.

After the first snorkeling session, lunch is usually served on the island itself, on a small sandy beach where simplicity and nature take center stage. A second snorkeling session often follows, sometimes near the iconic underwater Ganesha statue.

Menjangan is the perfect destination for those who want to explore Bali’s underwater world without the crowds of more famous snorkeling spots.

For travelers interested in Bali’s rich history, Kerta Gosa in Klungkung is a fascinating stop. This former courthouse was once part of the royal palace Puri Semarapura, dating back to the time when Klungkung was an independent kingdom.

The complex consists of two important pavilions. The Bale Kerta Gosa is famous for its ceiling paintings in the Kamasan or wayang style, depicting stories of justice, karma and punishment. The Bale Kambang, the floating pavilion, sits in the middle of a lotus pond and creates a peaceful atmosphere.

Kerta Gosa once served as the highest court on the island. Cases that could not be resolved within families or village communities were judged here by Brahmin priests. Today, the complex functions as a museum where you can see historical artifacts, traditional weapons, kris daggers and old documents.

Despite damage from earthquakes and the colonial period, Kerta Gosa has been carefully restored over the years. It remains an important cultural monument and a place where Bali’s history truly comes alive, without the feel of mass tourism.