By Lisa Hollinshead | Social101.com
Bali has always held a special place in my heart, but in the past, my trips tended to revolve around sunset cocktails, beach clubs, and the buzzing nightlife of Seminyak. This time, however, my journey was completely different—and far more fulfilling. As a single mum traveling with my 7-year-old son, Albie, I wanted to experience a side of Bali that was less about the bar scene and more about adventure, culture, and family-friendly fun.
✈️ PLANNING YOUR OWN BALI ADVENTURE?
A few things I now organise before I even leave Australia:
📱 Get connected: I always sort an eSIM for Bali before I fly
Best flight and hotel deals: Make sure you get the best deal on your accommodation so you can enjoy activities on the ground
🚗 Airport transfer: Landing with a tired child and luggage? Pre-booking a Bali airport transfer → is money well spent.
Where We Stayed
The W – Seminyak: Stylish, Chic, and Surprisingly Kid-Friendly
From the moment we arrived at The W Bali – Seminyak, I was impressed. Known for its ultra-modern design and party atmosphere, I was initially unsure whether it would suit a family trip, but the staff went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. Albie loved the sprawling pool and the private beach access, while I indulged in a much-needed spa session at AWAY Spa. The breakfast buffet was exceptional, offering everything from tropical fruit platters to fresh pastries and made-to-order omelets.
Top Tip: If you’re traveling with kids, request a villa with a private pool—it’s a game-changer!
❤️ LISA’S PICK: Want to experience it for yourself? Check current rates and availability at W Bali – Seminyak
Renaissance Uluwatu: Tranquility with a View
For a more relaxed vibe, we headed south to Renaissance Bali Uluwatu. Nestled atop dramatic cliffs with panoramic ocean views, this hotel provided the perfect setting for unwinding. The pool area was stunning, and the kids’ club kept Albie entertained while I enjoyed the wellness-focused amenities, including yoga and meditation sessions.
Why Stay Here? It’s an ideal retreat for families who want a balance between luxury and peace, away from the crowded beaches of Seminyak. They also have clay pot making, which Albie LOVED.
🏨 STAY HERE: This remains one of my picks for parents who want Bali luxury and enough going on to keep the kids happy. Check current rates for Renaissance Bali Uluwatu
Renaissance Nusa Dua: A Family Haven
Our final stop was Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua.
If you’re looking for a resort that caters to both kids and adults, this is the place. The pool had a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, and the staff went the extra mile to keep the little ones entertained. It was the perfect base for exploring the quieter, more family-focused side of Bali.
🌴 MAKE IT YOUR BASE: If you’re planning the family-friendly part of your Bali trip around Nusa Dua, compare rates for Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua
What We Did: Adventure and Culture Without the Hangovers
Ziggy Alberts at The Lawns: A Perfect Sunset Experience
One of the highlights of our trip was catching Ziggy Alberts live at The Lawns in Canggu. The relaxed, barefoot-in-the-sand vibe made it the perfect way to enjoy live music with Albie. The crowd was a mix of families, couples, and solo travelers, all soaking up the acoustic tunes as the sun dipped below the horizon.
Red Rooster DayClub – Nusa Dua: A Refreshing Change from Party Pools
Instead of the usual party-heavy day clubs, we opted for Red Rooster DayClub in Nusa Dua. This hidden gem had a fantastic atmosphere, delicious food, and zero pressure to drink. The staff were incredibly friendly, and Albie loved the tropical gardens and pool.
Ku De Ta: Still a Classic
Ku De Ta remains a Bali institution, but visiting as a mum was a whole different experience. We enjoyed a laid-back brunch overlooking the beach, and the kids’ menu made it easy for Albie to find something he loved. The service was top-notch, and the relaxed morning vibes made it a great stop for families.
Snorkelling and a Boat Tour: A Must-Do for Ocean Lovers
Bali’s marine life is spectacular, and we couldn’t pass up the chance to explore it.
We booked a snorkeling tour off the coast of Nusa Penida, where Albie was thrilled to see vibrant coral reefs and even a few sea turtles!
Top Tip: Go early in the morning for the clearest waters and fewer crowds. Check out local operators here.
🐢 WANT TO DO IT TOO?
Nusa Penida was one of those experiences Albie talked about long after we got home. If you’re travelling with kids, I’d look for an early departure and check age requirements before booking.
Compare Nusa Penida snorkelling and boat tours here
Quad Biking in Canggu: Pure Adrenaline!
For a bit of adventure, we went quad biking through the rice paddies of Canggu. This was easily one of Albie’s favorite experiences—he loved riding through the muddy trails and waving at the locals along the way.
🏍️ BOOK THE ADVENTURE
This one gets a massive vote from Albie. If you’ve got adventurous kids, compare family-friendly Bali quad biking experiences → here
Lisa’s tip: Check the minimum age and whether children ride independently or with an adult before booking.
Traditional Balinese Village Tour & Water Purification Ceremony
One of the most special moments of our trip was a traditional Balinese village tour and water purification ceremonyorganized by Bali Buddies. This was a deeply grounding experience, as we learned about Balinese customs, participated in a cleansing ritual at a sacred spring, and connected with the local community. For me, this was a profound moment of reflection, reinforcing my journey toward a more mindful and connected lifestyle.
🙏 Looking for a similar experience? Browse Bali temple, purification and cultural tours → Here
Why Bali is Perfect for Families (Even If You’re Sober!)
Bali is often associated with cheap cocktails and beach parties, but this trip showed me how much more the island has to offer. From cultural experiences to adventure-filled activities, it’s a fantastic destination for families. And for anyone choosing a sober lifestyle, Bali is still incredibly enjoyable—you just need to know where to look!
Final Thoughts? If you’re a single parent looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and meaningful experiences, Bali is the perfect destination. And best of all, I got to see it through Albie’s eyes—full of wonder, excitement, and joy.
Planning a Family Trip to Bali? Check out Bali Buddies for family-friendly tours, Bali Boat Tours for ocean adventures, and Marriott Hotels for amazing family stays.
Have you been to Bali with kids? Share your experiences in the comments below or tag us at @Social101 on Instagram!
Uluwatu Temple: A Cultural and Scenic Highlight
No trip to Bali is complete without a visit to Uluwatu Temple, perched dramatically on a cliff 70 meters above the Indian Ocean. We arrived just before sunset and were captivated by the breathtaking views and the rhythmic chanting of the famous Kecak Fire Dance, a mesmerizing performance depicting an ancient Hindu story. Albie was fascinated by the playful (and cheeky!) monkeys that roam the temple grounds, though I kept a tight grip on our belongings. The experience was a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and stunning natural beauty.
🔥 EXPERIENCE ULUWATU AT SUNSET
The Kecak Fire Dance against that sunset backdrop is one of those quintessential Bali experiences. Compare Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance tours → here
🧳 What I Pack for Bali With a Child
I’ve learned that a few things make Bali considerably easier when you’re the only parent on duty.
📱 eSIM: Being able to access maps, WhatsApp and bookings as soon as we land is non-negotiable. Get your Bali eSIM here
🔋 Portable power bank: Maps + photos + videos + entertaining a child = goodbye battery. Shop my travel power bank → here
💧 Reusable water bottle: One each, always. Shop travel water bottles → here
☀️ SPF: Bali sun does not mess around. Shop my family travel SPF picks → here
🎧 Kids’ headphones: Possibly the greatest invention in the history of long-haul parenting. Shop travel headphones → here
🧳 Packing cubes: I resisted them. I was wrong. Shop packing cubes → here
❤️ SOCIAL101 PICKS: PLANNING A FAMILY TRIP TO BALI?
These are the things I’d book before you go:
🏨 Find your family-friendly Bali stay →
Compare hotels and resorts
🐢 Book the fun stuff →
Snorkelling, Nusa Penida, quad biking, temples, water parks and more
🚗 Start the holiday without the airport chaos →
Pre-book your Bali airport transfer
📱 Land connected →
Get your Bali eSIM before leaving Australia
🛡️ Don’t forget travel insurance →
Compare cover for your Bali family holiday
🌴 Want more inspiration? →
Browse all Bali tours and experiences
⭐ Social101 Approved
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