Our Bali holiday in April/May 2025 saw us visit some fantastic locations around Bali and Nusa Lembongan and we stayed at a range of excellent family-friendly hotels and villas. This trip was a mix of travel and work for me, while the kids enjoyed everything Bali does best – pools, activities and relaxed holiday days. We love collaborating with family-friendly properties in Bali, and this blog post is a daily diary of our trip, sharing where we stayed, what we did and how our Bali holiday unfolded day by day. Happy reading.

We always organise a few things before we travel to Bali:

• Covermore Travel Insurance
• 30-day tourist visa
• Love Bali payment
• Customs Declarations
• The times and dates for our nannies and drivers. Having an approximate schedule is useful when we are moving around so much. (Read to the end of the post for their What’s App details)
• eSIM with Klook

Bali accommodation we stayed at during our visit to Bali:

• Parkroyal Melbourne Airport
• Bisma Cottages Ubud
• Wapa Di Ume Sidemen
• Lembongan Island Beach Villas
• Kokomo Villa Sandy Bay
• Grand Mirage Resort
• Padma Resort Ubud
• Padma Resort Legian
• Rimba by AYANA

Sunday 20th April – Parkroyal Melbourne Airport

It was just the kids and me travelling this time and we left home mid-afternoon to make our way to Melbourne Airport, ready for another Bali trip.

We parked at Terminal 4, as we scored a great deal online, which made the airport stay even easier. For the night before our early flight, we stayed at the Parkroyal Melbourne Airport. The rooms are fine but starting to look a little dated; however, for a one-night stopover before an early international flight, it does the job perfectly thanks to the unbeatable location.

Dinner was a straightforward choice at Grilld at Melbourne Airport. Super easy to walk across the bridge directly into the airport.

With an early Garuda Indonesia flight booked for the next morning, we headed to bed early. Bags were ready, alarms were set and we were ready to explore Bali over the next 2 weeks.

Monday 21st April – Flying to Bali & Arriving in Ubud

Today was travel day as we flew from Melbourne to Bali with Garuda Indonesia. With an early morning departure, we were up at 4 am, checked out and by 4:45 am, walking across to the airport. One of the perks of staying at the Parkroyal Melbourne Airport is that it is just a one-minute walk to the terminal.

Check-in was quick and easy. While Garuda doesn’t offer a simple bag drop like Jetstar, the line moved fast. Mason wore his Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard, which always helps make the airport experience a little smoother. We were through security by 5:10 am, which was very quick and stress-free.

Once airside, we found a spot to sit, and I went in search of a much-needed coffee from St Ali’s before boarding. We boarded at 6:35 am and took off right on time at 7 am. We usually fly Jetstar to Bali, so flying with Garuda Indonesia was a noticeable upgrade. The seats were more comfortable, in-flight entertainment and meals were included, and overall it felt like a more relaxed flying experience. The only downside was the earlier departure time, which isn’t quite as appealing as the 9:15 am Melbourne-to-Bali flight we often choose.

Garuda’s plane configuration was 2-4-2, so Mason and I sat together by the window, while Charlotte had the aisle seat. She scored a spare seat next to her, which meant she enjoyed a long sleep during the flight. The in-flight entertainment screens were built into the seatbacks and had an okay range of movies and TV shows. Food and drinks throughout the flight were good, and I had pre-ordered a child’s meal for Mason, which meant his food was blander and served first, always a win.

We landed on time and walked straight into the arrivals hall via the airbridge. Arrivals were incredibly quick thanks to using the auto gates with our pre-prepared eVOA. If you’re travelling to Bali, this is well worth doing; it saves so much time. (Please note that if your kids are under 6 years old, you will need to use the desk and not the auto-gates.)

Check out our blog post on organising your eVOA before travelling

Bags took a little longer, as usual, and Mason’s Lightning McQueen suitcase needed an extra helping hand after getting stuck, but we were soon on our way. For this trip, we picked up our phone eSIMs at the Klook counter, which was easy. You need to present your phone and passports.

Check out the link to purchase an eSIM through Klook

We were met by Darma, our driver from Bisma Cottages Ubud, and from landing to finding him at the exit took around 50 minutes, very efficient for Denpasar Airport. The drive to Ubud was long, taking about two hours, but at least the car was air-conditioned.

Arriving at Bisma Cottages Ubud was a lovely way to end the travel day. We stayed in cottage rooms next to each other, connected by a balcony, which was perfect for our teen to have her own space.

Check out our full review of Bisma Cottages Ubud

After enjoying a welcome drink and unpacking, we walked down to Monkey Forest Road for lunch at Golden Ape Ubud. Later, Charlotte had a manicure and pedicure booked at Inka Ubud Spa. While she was being pampered, Mason and I did what we always do in Bali – a visit to the mini-mart, easily one of his favourite parts of every trip!

Back to Bisma Cottages Ubud and time for a swim to end a long day of travel. One of the Bisma Cottages staff kindly picked Charlotte up from the spa on a scooter, which made getting around much easier. This is something we do regularly in Bali, even though we don’t ride the bikes ourselves, and I always make sure our Cover-More travel insurance includes motorbike coverage.

Link to travel insurance post

With a very early start and a long travel day behind us, we opted for an early dinner just across the road at Lucky Family Coffee and Food. The food was great, the prices were excellent and it was exactly what we needed before heading back to our room for an early night.

Tuesday 22nd April – Early Morning Ubud Walks, Rafting & Spa Time

I always wake up early on our first morning in Bali and Mason is usually right there with me. This time, we were both awake by 4:45 am, ready to start the day while Ubud was still quiet.

One of my favourite things to do in Ubud is go for an early morning walk, so we headed up Jl Bisma, enjoying the quiet streets before the day really begins. Our first stop was Daily Baguette for a coffee and some pastries, the perfect start to the morning, and I love that they open at 6 am. Ideal for early risers like us!

From there, we continued to Milk & Madu, a cafe we have loved for years and first visited way back in 2017. The Brekky Set is great value and I always recommend the corn fritters, still just as good as I remembered. Coffee is always great at any Milk and Madu you visit in Bali. After breakfast, we grabbed a Grab scooter back to Bisma Cottages Ubud. Getting around Ubud this way is quick and easy, make sure you always wear a helmet.

As part of the Family Adventure Package at Bisma Cottages Ubud, white-water rafting was included. At 9:30 am, we were picked up by a driver and taken to the rafting office to get geared up before heading to the Ayung River.

This is one of the reasons we love staying in Ubud. The rafting starting point was only about a 20-minute drive, meaning we didn’t spend long in the car before the fun began. After heading down a series of steps, we were straight on the river. The rafting was so much fun, with a stop along the way for a drink before walking back up to the truck. From start to finish, the experience took around three hours, including lunch, before we were driven back to Bisma Cottages Ubud.

Back at the hotel, our amazing nanny Berta arrived, and it was so good to see her again. She spent time with Mason while Charlotte and I enjoyed our 60-minute Balinese massages, which were included in our Bisma Cottages Ubud package. The massages were at Putri Bali Spa 3, which is a great spot with excellent prices and we both absolutely loved them.

Later in the afternoon, we headed to Inka Ubud Spa, where I enjoyed a pedicure while Charlotte had a hair treatment. After a full day, it was time for dinner at Donna, where we used a discount voucher we had received from the spa. The food was incredible and the drinks were next level, definitely a standout dinner.

After dinner, we wandered along Monkey Forest Road, soaking up the evening atmosphere and stopping for an ice cream before grabbing a Grab motorbike back to Bisma Cottages Ubud so Berta could head off for the night.

Wednesday 23rd April – Galungan Celebrations & Ubud Highlights Tour

Wednesday started with a 6 am wake-up and a peaceful wander along Jl Bisma. It was Galungan, one of the most beautiful times of the year in Bali and the streets were lined with stunning penjors. Seeing them arching over the roads always makes Ubud feel extra special.

For breakfast, we headed to Pistachio Restaurant, which had nice coffee and a lovely setting, a relaxed way to start what would be a big day.

At 8 am, Darma picked us up from Bisma Cottages Ubud to begin the Ubud Highlights Tour, which was again included as part of our Bisma Cottages package. He brought his son along for the day, who was absolutely adorable and made the experience even more personal.

Our first stop was the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. There’s a small entrance fee, and visiting in the early morning was perfect for taking in the incredible views before it became too busy. You can also ride a bike across the valley on a wire, hire a dress, or jump on one of the swings if you’re chasing those Instagram-friendly photos.

Next, we drove through the beautiful Balinese countryside to Ulu Petanu Waterfall. It’s easy to access with kids and an excellent spot for taking photos without too many steps or a long walk.

From there, we stopped at a coffee plantation to sample a range of teas and coffees before heading to a very special stop, Darma’s family compound. We felt incredibly privileged to be invited in. The kids loved playing with the other children, and the warmth and hospitality we were shown will never be forgotten.

Lunch was next at a beautiful countryside location, and while we were there, a Galungan procession walked down the road. Seeing the celebrations up close was amazing and reminded me why I love Balinese culture so much.

By 1:30 pm, we were back at Bisma Cottages Ubud, feeling like we had packed so much into one morning, such a fantastic adventure. We enjoyed relaxing at Bisma Cottages and by the pool. We then had an early dinner at Taco Fiesta, located on Jl Bisma, and Berta joined us too. The Mexican food was great, the prices were excellent, and it was an easy, relaxed dinner after a full day.

After dinner, Charlotte and I caught a Grab motorbike to Lumeria Yoga & Healing Centre, located within the grounds of Plataran Resort, another great accommodation option for families visiting Ubud. We attended a sound healing session, and honestly, it was sublime. Such a calming and beautiful way to end an already fantastic day in Ubud.

Thursday 24th April – From Ubud to Sidemen

Thursday started with another early morning, and Mason and I headed out for a walk past the Monkey Forest and over to Pison Cafe. I’m not a huge fan of visiting inside the Monkey Forest and walking past, where you see plenty of monkeys. At Pison Cafe, I enjoyed a coffee while Mason was pleased with his pancakes, a relaxed way to start our final morning in Ubud.

We took a Grab car back towards Jl Bisma, stopping at Little Talks Cafe for another coffee for me and a hot chocolate for Mason.

Back at Bisma Cottages Ubud, we enjoyed a delicious floating breakfast, beautifully prepared by the team. Not long after, it was time to check out, and it was genuinely sad to say goodbye to the fantastic staff who had made our stay so special.

At 11 am, Alex, our driver and friend, picked us up and we headed off, stopping for lunch at Wedja Restaurant. The gardens there are stunning, and the restaurant serves lovely food with a great range of Balinese dishes and drinks, a perfect spot to break up the drive.

From there, we continued towards Sidemen, with an essential stop for Mason at KFC. He always loves testing out the fast food in Bali! The drive from Ubud to Sidemen is quite windy, and we arrived at Wapa di Ume Sidemen around 1:15 pm. Check-in was beautiful, and we were presented with a Tridatu bracelet, which was a lovely touch and a meaningful welcome.

Check out our blog post on Wapa Di Ume Sidemen here

We stayed in a Luxury Family Tent, which comprised two tents connected by a shared outdoor lounge space overlooking the pool. Each tent featured a king-sized bed, a full bathroom with a shower, a fridge, and a desk. The setup was spacious, comfortable and absolutely lovely.

After settling in, we enjoyed a swim in the pool before heading to the complimentary afternoon tea, which included a great selection of savoury and sweet treats, all enjoyed with an incredible view over the resort.

Later, Mason and I wandered down the steps to the outdoor playground, which features a trampoline, swings and most importantly, a hammock for me. I sat back, relaxed and enjoyed a Bintang, which felt very well deserved.

Dinner was at the stunning Sleeping Gajah Restaurant at the resort. The cocktails were excellent, the food was delicious, and it was the perfect end to a day that truly felt like paradise. I love Sidemen for its culture, peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views; it never disappoints.

Friday 25th April – Slow Sidemen Mornings & Poolside Bliss

Mason and I were awake early again, up by 6 am, and waking up in Sidemen never gets old. The view from our tent was so peaceful, and it’s one of the things I love most about staying here.

We spent the early morning exploring the resort grounds, visiting the playground and then wandering down to the river before making our way back to Sleeping Gajah Restaurant for breakfast, which opens at 7 am.

Breakfast was lovely. The view was incredible, the coffee was good, and Mason was pleased with his pancakes. I also really enjoyed that breakfast isn’t a buffet. Instead, you order from an a la carte menu, with reasonable prices and well-prepared dishes.

At 8 am, I joined the complimentary yoga session, held in a stunning location and suitable for all levels. It was a great way to start the day slowly and intentionally.

One of the things we really loved during our stay was the free kids’ activities. Mason made a canang sari with Dewi, who was so patient and lovely with him, and it was such a special cultural experience.

We then joined the Sidemen Sightseeing experience, which is offered free of charge daily at 10 am. This is truly one of the best things to do while staying in Sidemen. A local driver takes you around the Sidemen area and beyond, sharing insights into Balinese culture and helping you connect with the local way of life.

We revisited a beautiful spot that Mason and I had walked to during our 2022 stay in Sidemen, and it was so peaceful and special to be back. From there, we headed to Lokasari Luwak Coffee Plantation & Honeybee Farm, where the friendly staff introduced us to the stingless bees, which was such a fun and enjoyable experience.

After returning to the resort, we headed out for lunch at Asri Dining by Samanvaya. Mason was keen on a burger (which wasn’t available at Wapa), and this was a perfect option. While Samanvaya is an adults-only resort, children are welcome at the restaurant, and the setting is stunning.

The afternoon was spent exactly how a Sidemen afternoon should be: relaxing in the pools at Wapa, with cocktails by the pool as the sun set. It truly was a perfect day.

Dinner was another success back at Sleeping Gajah Restaurant, with delicious food once again. After dinner, I escaped to the spa for a massage, which was pure bliss. When I returned to the tent, the rain started to fall. Listening to the rain on the tent’s roof was incredible and reassuring to know it was completely waterproof!

Saturday 26th April – Sunrise in Sidemen & Onward to Nusa Lembongan

Waking up early after the overnight rain was so lovely. The rain had cleared entirely, and we were treated to the most beautiful sunrise from our tent. As we headed out for our morning walk towards breakfast, Mount Agung looked absolutely stunning, one of those moments that really stays with you.

We arrived early at Sleeping Gajah Restaurant at 6:45 am, and the staff were so kind, making a coffee for me and pancakes for Mason before the official breakfast service began. Once again, the food was delicious, and those views somehow make everything taste even better.

After breakfast, we joined the complimentary light trekking, which departs from the lobby at 7 am. We wandered down the road through the most stunning scenery before reaching the river, then continued walking through the rice paddies, taking some beautiful photos along the way. The trek was straightforward, and kids are more than welcome. It took about 45 minutes, and you can head back to Wapa di Ume Sidemen anytime.

Mason and I decided to keep walking past the resort and stopped for coffee at Citrus & Vine, great coffee, highly recommended.

Back at the tent, it was time to finish packing, and our laundry arrived back (one of my favourite little travel moments).

Soon after, our floating breakfast arrived. We had selected a range of dishes from the Sleeping Gajah menu, and it was such a beautiful and indulgent way to end our stay.

Saying goodbye to Wapa di Ume Sidemen was genuinely sad, I would go back in a heartbeat.

At 11 am, Alex picked us up and drove us through East Bali to the Rocky Fast Cruises office in Sanur. It was time to head over to the beautiful island of Nusa Lembongan.

At the office, the crew gave us our wristbands and tickets and loaded our luggage. We were then taken by golf buggy to the Sanur Harbour departure point. There were lots of tourists waiting for different boats, so it’s worth bringing snacks and drinks.

Check out our blog post on Nusa Lembongan here

We were due to depart at 2:15 pm, and eventually boarded at 2:30 pm. We chose to get on last and sat at the back of the boat. The trip across was pretty smooth, and we arrived at the Rocky Fast Cruise jetty around an hour later. One of the best things about Rocky is the easy access on and off the boat, the jetty makes a big difference.

We were met by the team from Lembongan Island Beach Villas and loaded onto the back of a truck for the short trip to our accommodation.

We stayed in Villa 3, and it was gorgeous. The villa features a small plunge pool and a deck overlooking Jungut Batu Beach, with stunning views back across to Bali. Inside, there are three bedrooms: two king rooms and one huge room with two triple bunk beds that sleep six kids, which made Mason’s animal friends very happy.

Check out our blog post on Lembongan Island Beach Villas here

After a long travel day, it was time for a Bintang by the communal pool and some downtime. For dinner and sunset, we headed to one of our favourites, Thai Pantry, for delicious Thai food and great views. We hadn’t been back since 2019, and it was so lovely to return.

We finished the day with a nighttime swim back at the villa, followed by an early night. The perfect end to a big but beautiful day.

Sunday 27th April- Slow Island Mornings & Nusa Lembongan Bliss

Waking up to sunrise from our villa, looking out over the ocean towards Bali, was spectacular and the perfect way to start our first full day on Nusa Lembongan.

I headed out early, walking towards Jl Jungut Batu in search of a coffee. I love early mornings on Nusa Lembongan. It’s so quiet and peaceful, and I always feel incredibly relaxed wandering the streets before the island wakes up.

The General opened at 7 am, and they make a great coffee, so it was the perfect first stop. I kept walking and soon came across Let’s Bake French Bakery. Wow, the pastries here are incredible. Another coffee was definitely required before I headed back to the villa.

Breakfast at Lembongan Island Beach Villas is included and is simple but filling. It consists of a plate of fruit, mixed juice, tea or coffee, plus your choice of a main from the menu, exactly what we needed to fuel the day.

I had organised a nanny from Nusa Baby Care to spend time with Mason while Charlotte and I headed to Island Yoga Lemongan for the Hammock Soundscape session. Oh my goodness, it was divine. I may have even fallen asleep, only to be woken by Charlotte whispering to me. Highly recommend this experience, and we loved meeting the gorgeous pug as well.

After our hammock relaxation, we walked back up to Let’s Bake for lunch before heading to Spring Spa for a relaxing shoulder and foot massage. The spa has a stunning view over the bright blue ocean surrounding Nusa Lembongan, making it an incredibly peaceful experience.

Later, we met back up with Dewi and Mason, who had been swimming in the pool with his cars, always a win. We then wandered along the boardwalk to Coconut Beach, where I enjoyed a cocktail from Lago Beach Cafe.

Coconut Beach is our favourite spot on the island with the kids. The sunsets are beautiful, it’s easy to swim, and you can even catch a boat out to the Lago Pontoon for some extra fun. Of course, Mason also managed to find the ice cream shop, which is becoming a daily tradition.

While the kids got ready for dinner back at the villa, I enjoyed an espresso martini at Bar Riva. The decor is gorgeous, and while it is on the pricier side, the cocktails are excellent quality.

After saying goodbye to Dewi, a truck from Casa Bambu Cantina picked us up and took us to dinner. This is one of the things I love about Nusa Lembongan. You book a table and many restaurants will organise free transport for you. Casa Bambu served great Mexican food, featured live music, and had a kids’ playground, making it another fantastic family-friendly dinner option.

It was a wonderful day in Nusa Lembongan and a perfect reminder of why we love coming back here.

Monday 28th April – Nusa Penida Day Trip & Back to Nusa Lembongan

Mason and I woke to our last beautiful sunrise from our Lembongan Island Beach Villa number 3, soaking in the view before heading out for a morning walk along Jungut Batu Beach. Watching the light change over the island is one of those simple moments that make island mornings so special.

We stopped at Kayu Lembongan for a takeaway coffee before heading back to the villa to pack up, as we were on the move again. The staff at Lembongan Island Beach Villas delivered our breakfast straight to the villa, which was a lovely, relaxed way to start what we knew would be a big day.

We checked out of The Lembongan Island Beach villas, and it was sad to say goodbye. Highly recommend booking early and staying at one of these gorgeous villas. If you have mobility issues, it won’t suit, but otherwise, the steps are worth it for the fantastic views! Go for Villa 3 for fewer steps and incredible views.

CHECK OUT OUR BLOG POST ON THE LEMBONGAN ISLAND BEACH VILLAS

Through The Lembongan Traveller website, we found Lemos Penida Tours and chose the West Side Tour of Nusa Penida. The Lembongan Traveller is an excellent resource with detailed information on Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida and it made organising the day very easy.

We were picked up at 8:30 am, with our day packs ready. The villa staff organised for our luggage to be transported ahead to our next villa on Nusa Lembongan, which made things much easier.

We were driven to the Yellow Bridge, where we waited around 10 minutes for our speedboat to arrive. The trip across to Nusa Penida took just 13 minutes. Quick and fun, make sure you hold onto your hat.

On arrival, we met our driver and headed off towards Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong. The drive from the harbour to the car park took around 50 minutes, with the final 10 minutes being the bumpiest road I’ve ever experienced. The potholes were huge and it was clear that the infrastructure hadn’t kept up with the volume of tourists.

We walked down to see the sights, but to be honest, there were a lot of people. While the locations themselves are beautiful, the kids just weren’t that interested; although they did appreciate an ice cream break in the heat. We spent about 30 minutes walking around.

We were meant to continue to Kelingking Beach, but I made the call to skip it and head straight to Crystal Bay for a swim. After experiencing the crowds and long drives, the kids weren’t keen on another busy tourist stop. The drive to Crystal Bay was scenic and really highlighted how large and jungle-like Nusa Penida is. It took around an hour because the distances between spots on the island are pretty spread out.

We arrived at Crystal Bay around 12:30 pm, hired a couple of lounge chairs (around $2 per lounge) and went for a swim. The water was lovely and a welcome break from the heat, although the waves were a little rough, so you’d need to be cautious with younger kids. There were also quite a few boats anchored in the bay.

If I were to do a Nusa Penida tour again, I would choose a boat-based tour instead. While our driver was great, we saw plenty of drivers who were just plain unsafe, and the road conditions plus long driving times weren’t ideal for kids.

After about an hour at Crystal Bay, we did the 20-minute drive back to the harbour, relaxed at the beach there for around 15 minutes, and then boarded the speedboat back to Nusa Lembongan.

Our transport was waiting for us at the Yellow Bridge, and it was only a 10-minute drive to Sandy Bay. For the next two nights, we were staying at Villa Kokomo, a gorgeous villa steps from Sandy Bay Beach.

READ OUR BLOG POST ON VILLA KOKOMO HERE

I loved the villa’s open design and its natural, relaxed vibe. We settled in with a welcome fresh-fruit platter, and I grabbed a pizza and a burger for lunch from Sandy Bay Beach Club. My mojito was the perfect drink while I waited for the food.

Sunset at Sandy Bay was absolutely stunning. I loved how easy it was to wander down to the beach, enjoy a Bintang, and watch the sun go down.

After sunset, we squeezed in a swim before heading out for dinner at Oishii Bar & Grill. The sushi and sashimi were delicious; sorry, no menus were photographed, we were all exhausted. After such a big day, it was an early night, ready for a slower pace the next day.

Tuesday 29th April – Slow Island Mornings & Last Night on Nusa Lembongan

I started my day with an early morning walk to Mushroom Bay, one of my favourite ways to begin a day on Nusa Lembongan. It’s an easy and very scenic walk, taking around 20 minutes from Villa Kokomo in Sandy Bay.

Mushroom Bay is a great area to stay, with plenty of lovely accommodation options, including Hai Tide Beach Resort and Sanghyang Bay Villas. We actually stayed at Sanghyang Bay Villas back in 2019, and they are excellent value, especially for families. There are no ATMs in Sandy Bay, and only limited shops; Mushroom Bay is the place to go.

After wandering around Mushroom Bay, I stopped in at Mushroom Espresso for a coffee. I was so happy to see they’re still there. I used to visit every morning during our 2019 stay, and they still make a great coffee. Plus, they stock MilkLab almond milk, which is always a win.

Breakfast this morning was at Tropical Juice Corner in Sandy Bay, and it’s a great-value option. Highly recommend it if you’re staying in this area. Mason once again ordered pancakes and was very happy.

We then spent some quiet time back at the villa before Dewi, our nanny from Nusa Baby Care, arrived. While Mason enjoyed time with Dewi, Charlotte and I headed to Sandy Bay Beach Club for a relaxed lunch. The food and drinks at Sandy Bay are always great, although the prices definitely reflect the location.

One thing I love about Sandy Bay is that it’s so family-friendly, with a playground and pool to enjoy. Swimming in the ocean here isn’t recommended due to the rocks, so having those facilities is a big plus.

I then headed to Jamu Day Spa for a very relaxing massage. The prices are excellent, around $20 for a one-hour Balinese massage, and it was just what I needed.

Afterwards, it was time to say goodbye to Dewi, who was absolutely amazing. Mason adored her, and once again, it reminded me how much having a nanny can completely change the pace of a family holiday in Bali.

We spent the afternoon enjoying swims in the villa pool before our golf buggy from Made’s Transport Lembongan arrived. Hiring a golf buggy is such a fun and easy way to get around the island, especially with kids.

We drove up to Pasir Beach, at the northern tip of Nusa Lembongan, to watch the sunset, and it was absolutely stunning. Such a beautiful way to spend our last night on the island.

From there, we headed to The Coconut Hut for a game of mini golf. It was so much fun; don’t forget to apply the mosquito spray they provide. Mini golf cost $5 per person, and they also have a great range of food and drinks.

Made met us at the mini golf to drive us back to the villa and take the golf buggy back. For reference, golf buggy hire prices when we visited were:

• IDR 900,000 (1–6 hours)

• IDR 1.2 million (12 hours)

• IDR 1.5 million (24 hours)

It’s a safe, easy alternative to scooters and a fantastic option for families wanting to get around Nusa Lembongan comfortably. A perfect, relaxed final night on Nusa Lembongan.

Wednesday 30th April – Farewelling Nusa Lembongan & Back to Bali

This morning’s walk took me over to Tamarind Beach and Secret Beach, and it ended up being one of those really special early island mornings. The walk took around 35 minutes, and the sunrise was stunning. Mt Agung could be seen through the clouds over Bali, and the water was incredibly calm.

Secret Beach (sometimes called Hidden Beach) is accessed via a short track down from the road. There are no buildings on the beach, which makes it feel untouched. It’s not really suitable for swimming due to the big waves, but it’s still a beautiful spot to visit. It was disappointing to see trash along the path to the beach, though sadly, that’s something we’ve noticed more in recent years.

One interesting tip: at low tide, you can actually crawl underneath the rock to access Mushroom Bay from Secret Beach.

After making my way to Mushroom Bay, I tried to withdraw cash, but none of the three ATMs were working, including the one at Hai Tide Resort. Just a heads-up: while many places on Nusa Lembongan accept cards, some still require cash. If you find a working ATM, take some money out when you can, as you may not be able to later.

We headed to Sandy Bay for breakfast, but not the Beach Club (which opens at 11 am). Instead, we ate at Sandy Bay Breakfast Club at the Shacks Pavilion, which is open from 7 am to 12 pm. It’s located up the hill about 30 metres from the Beach Club, at the Glo Salon & Beauty entrance.

You sit upstairs and enjoy a stunning view over the bay. I chose the corn fritters with a coffee, and Mason, no surprise, went for the pancakes again.

After breakfast, it was time to pack up and get ready for our 11 am boat back to Bali with Rocky Fast Cruises. We absolutely loved our stay at Villa Kokomo, and it was sad to leave after only two nights.

Check out our blog post on Villa Kokomo here

Our truck transport arrived, and after waiting about 10 minutes at the office, we loaded onto the boat. The crossing back to Bali was honestly the roughest one I’ve experienced. It was still fine overall, but there were definitely a few people hoping Bali would hurry up and appear; even Charlotte moved to sit at the back of the boat. The crossing from Nusa Lembongan to Bali took around 50 minutes.

Our driver, Alit, met us at Sanur Harbour and drove us to The Grand Mirage Resort in Tanjung Benoa, a 45-minute drive.

It was wonderful to be back at The Grand Mirage. We stayed one night in the Main Wing in a new Premier Ocean Room and, once again, had all-inclusive, which made everything feel so easy after island hopping.

Check out our Grand Mirage Resort Blog Post here

The Main Wing rooms have all been renovated, and the new Premier Ocean Rooms are lovely, spacious for the three of us, with great ocean and pool views.

We ordered room service (one of the best perks of all-inclusive), relaxed in the room, and then Berta, our nanny, arrived.

We headed down to the Main Wing pool to enjoy the complimentary cocktails and mocktails, the pool bar here is always a lot of fun. Mason wanted to explore the Family Paradise Wing, of course, making a beeline for the games room.

Charlotte and I then enjoyed early drinks and dinner at Jukung Seafood Grill, followed by The Rama Live Entertainment for the BBQ under the stars. Live entertainment paired with delicious food made for a really lovely evening.

After dinner, I headed back up to our room so Berta could head home, rounding out a big but beautiful travel day.

Thursday 1st May – From the Coast to the Jungle

Sunrises from the ocean view rooms at The Grand Mirage are absolutely stunning. I woke at 5:45 am to watch the colours slowly change over the water before putting my sneakers on for a morning beach walk.

I walked along the sand until I reached Novotel Benoa, a great-value resort split across the main road in Tanjung Benoa. It’s definitely worth looking into, especially if you’re an Accor member.

Breakfast opens at 7 am at The Grand Mirage, and it’s a huge buffet with an excellent selection. The coffee is only ok though, so Mason and I wandered down the street to Area Coffee Bali for a proper, strong coffee made with Milk Lab milk. If you’re a coffee lover staying in Benoa or Nusa Dua, this is a great little spot.

After coffee, it was time for a swim and to enjoy the fantastic facilities at The Grand Mirage before ordering room service lunch at 11:30 am. We checked out at 12 pm, and our driver, Alit, arrived to take us to Padma Resort Ubud.

The drive took around 2 hours and 15 minutes, but it was so lovely to be back at Padma Ubud. We last stayed here in 2017, and it really is a stunning resort set deep in the jungle.

Check out our blog post on The Padma Resort Ubud here

We checked in and were shown to our Premier Club Pool View Room, staying in Room 316. The room was beautiful, featuring a huge king bed plus a king single trundle set up for Mason. The views across the pool and jungle below were absolutely breathtaking.

We headed straight down to the enormous infinity pool for a much-needed swim, followed by food and drinks poolside.

Happy hour started soon after, so we spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying the pool before heading back to our room to wind down.

Once Mason was settled for the night, Charlotte and I visited Payangan Lounge for a drink and dessert. It’s such a gorgeous spot and a lovely way to end the day.

A quick night swim before an early night in bed followed, a perfect balance after a big travel day and a beautiful start to our time at Padma Ubud Resort.

Friday 2nd May – A Perfect Padma Ubud Day

The most peaceful way to wake up at Padma Resort Ubud was to watch the sunrise from our balcony, which was absolutely stunning, with the jungle slowly coming to life below us.

Mason joined me for an early morning walk around the resort, including a wander along the jogging track down to the river and across the bamboo bridge. One of the things I love most about Padma Ubud is that it truly has everything you need on-site. You feel completely safe exploring, and there is so much to see and do without ever leaving the resort.

That said, my favourite part of the day is always the buffet breakfast at Puhu Restaurant. Located on the 4th floor, the views across the resort and jungle are breathtaking. The breakfast spread is extensive, an incredible range of food and drinks, with something for everyone.

After breakfast, it was straight to the infinity pool for a swim. Hands down, one of the best purchases of this trip was a waterproof phone case for Mason’s phone. He spent ages taking underwater photos and videos, it kept him entertained for so long and was such a win.

Next, we visited the Animal Garden and Fishing Lagoon, open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. You can feed the animals and enjoy catch-and-release fishing, making it a fantastic spot for kids. Families with early risers will love that you can also wander through earlier in the day, when little ones are awake.

Right next door is the Agroforestry Garden, filled with a huge variety of plants. We spent ages wandering through this peaceful space, such a lovely addition to the resort experience.

I had signed Mason up for the Kids Sushi Making Class, held beside the infinity pool. It was so much fun, although Mason definitely enjoyed eating the sushi more than making it!

Lunch was at The Pool Cafe & Bar, with yummy food and relaxed poolside vibes. After lunch, it was time to head back to the room for some downtime before enjoying afternoon tea at Puhu Restaurant.

Afternoon tea here is an experience in itself. A beautiful selection of savoury and sweet treats, all enjoyed with those incredible jungle views.

Later in the afternoon, we visited the Archery Field, which was a lot of fun for the whole family. Then it was back to the pool for another swim and Mason’s favourite treat, chocolate milkshakes from the pool bar.

After a bath back in the room, the kids enjoyed room service for dinner, while I escaped back to Puhu Restaurant for some much-needed alone time, enjoying dinner and drinks.

Padma Ubud is beautiful during the day, but it is absolutely magical at night. What a truly wonderful day.

Saturday 3rd May – From Padma Ubud to Padma Legian

A slower morning, but still starting at 6 am, with time spent relaxing on the balcony and watching the sunrise over the jungle before heading down to breakfast at 6:30 am.

I took a wander through the Club Lounge area, and if you’re looking to elevate your stay at Padma Resort Ubud, this is definitely worth considering. The added space, service and inclusions make it feel extra special.

Next on Mason’s list was the fitness centre, which is in a fantastic location overlooking the infinity pool; not a bad view at all while working out.

The complimentary yoga class began at 8 am and was held in the stunning Bamboo Nest. Such a peaceful and grounding way to start the day.

After yoga, we went for a walk along the jogging track. Today was Kuningan, which comes 10 days after Galungan and marks the return of ancestral spirits to the spirit world. These cultural moments are one of the many reasons we love Bali so much; they always make me feel calm and connected.

It was then time for some fun at the Kids Club, followed by a final swim at the pool… and of course, one last chocolate milkshake from the pool bar for Mason.

We packed up our luggage and, on checkout, were presented with a tridatu bracelet. Such a beautiful and thoughtful way to mark the end of our stay at Padma Resort Ubud.

One of Alex’s friends picked us up and drove us to Padma Resort Legian, a journey of around 1 hour and 50 minutes.

It was wonderful to be back at Padma Resort Legian, and we were thrilled to be upgraded to a Studio Suite. Located on the Club side of the resort, we were in Room 653, which is the closest room to both the SKAI Bar and Grill and the Main Pool, such a great location. The room itself was fantastic, with plenty of space for the three of us.

Check out our Padma Resort Legian Blog Post here

Our nanny Berta arrived to spend time with Mason, while Charlotte and I headed across the road to Fresco for lunch. Located directly opposite the main entrance of Padma Resort Legian, it’s a great option with lovely coffee.

After our late lunch, I escaped to the adults-only infinity pool to enjoy happy hour, before we all headed down to the beach for sunset. We love Kanoa for drinks, food and relaxing on their bean bags while watching the sun go down.

Mason then headed off to a kids’ party with Berta at the Padma Legian Kids Club and lucky for him, there was sushi!

Charlotte discovered the AFL football playing at Fat Bowl (across from the resort), so I joined her for a delicious dinner and an exciting game. Ice cream from Fresco was the perfect way to end a busy, fun and beautifully balanced day.

Sunday 4th May – Beach Walks, Pool Days & SKAI Beach Club

An early morning wander around the Legian streets with Mason is always my favourite time to explore. It’s quiet, cooler, and before the area comes alive for the day. One of the best things about staying in Legian is the number of great coffee spots that open early.

We wandered down to the beach and grabbed a coffee from Machinery Coffee & Eatery (Milk Lab milk) before heading back to Padma Resort Legian for breakfast.

Once again, the Padma Legian breakfast buffet did not disappoint. The range is huge, truly something for everyone, and you never leave hungry.

Next stop was the fitness centre for a workout, followed by some downtime back in the room before heading out to enjoy the beautiful Padma pools.

There are so many pools to choose from, but Mason headed straight for the Family Pool, which has awesome waterslides and is a lot of fun. I love the Lagoon Pool with its beautiful trees, and the Barong Pool is always a hit for a splash and play.

Once Berta arrived, we settled in at the Main Pool, which is such a great spot to spend the day. I also love that the kids’ menu includes burgers served with vegetables. Don’t worry, though; Mason balanced things out nicely with an ice cream by the pool!

In the afternoon, Charlotte and I headed to The Deli for the Tropical Forest Afternoon Tea. Oh my goodness, it was absolutely incredible. Both the sweet and savoury options were delicious and beautifully presented. Such an exceptional experience and one I highly recommend.

We then ventured out for a bit of shopping along the Legian streets, where Mason scored a pair of Lightning McQueen Crocs! A stop at Bintang Supermarket followed to stock up on a few essentials.

Our laundry was delivered back to the entrance of Padma Legian by the team from Nikki Spa & Laundry, which made life so easy.

Charlotte then enjoyed the Nature Hair Spa at The Spa at Padma Legian. What an experience, her hair felt incredibly soft afterwards.

Dinner was booked at SKAI Bar & Grill, and we arrived at 6 pm to soak up the stunning sunset views. It’s a fantastic spot for a poolside swim while enjoying delicious food, great cocktails and DJ vibes.

Check out our blog post on SKAI Bar & Grill here

Dinner was excellent, everything we ate and drank was spot on, and it was the perfect way to spend our last night at Padma Resort Legian.

We finished the evening by saying goodbye to our beautiful nanny Berta, feeling very grateful for her help with Mason.

Monday 5th May – From Legian to Jungle Luxury at RIMBA

We enjoyed a slower morning waking up at Padma Resort Legian, and at 7 am, Mason and I headed out for a walk along the beach path, stopping to take a look around Stones Legian Hotel. It’s in a great location close to the beach, and the pool area looked like a lot of fun.

For my morning coffee fix, I stopped at Deddy’s Bali, just around the corner from Padma Legian. Great strong coffee and, yes, Milk Lab milk once again.

Breakfast this morning was at The Deli, which is a fantastic option if you’re after a more relaxed, quieter space. It opens at 8 am, and while you can still access all the breakfast dishes from Donbiu Restaurant, The Deli also has a more than sufficient selection of its own.

Next, we wandered over to the North Garden, which features fun activities such as archery, paintball, and an RC car track. Mason absolutely loved the RC cars, so much fun was had here.

After that, it was back to the Main Pool to relax and enjoy one last swim at Padma Legian before it was time to move on.

I then jumped on a Grab motorbike to Rust Cafe for another coffee (I think it’s safe to say I’m addicted by now!). Such a great cafe, and well worth the visit.

At 1 pm, our driver from RIMBA by AYANA arrived, and it was a sad goodbye to the fantastic team at Padma Resort Legian. The drive to RIMBA took around one hour, and the van was incredibly fancy; we felt fortunate!

Our arrival at RIMBA by AYANA was lovely, and we made our way straight to UNIQUE Rooftop Bar & Restaurant for lunch. The Mexican dishes were delicious, the drinks were excellent, and there’s even a pool you can swim in while enjoying the views. Outside guests are welcome.

Check out our blog post on RIMBA by AYANA here

After lunch, we checked in and were taken to our room, Room 4335, a Two Bedroom Resort View Suite. The suite was huge. The main bedroom featured a king-size bed, stunning bathroom and walk-in robe, while the interconnected second king room had its own ensuite. Charlotte was delighted to have her own room!

Once we had settled in and Kadek, our nanny, arrived, we headed out to explore the resort. First stop was the brand-new RIMBA Jungle Adventure Kids Club, an incredible space with a huge outdoor playground and indoor areas designed for all ages.

Next, it was time to hit the pools. There’s so much choice here, although unfortunately, the waterslide was undergoing maintenance during our stay. Mason still managed to find the pool bar for his final chocolate milkshake, while I escaped to relax by the adults-only pool.

Dinner was booked for the perfect way to end our Bali trip, Kampoeng Bali. The evening begins with a traditional Balinese market-style atmosphere, where families can wander through food stalls, watch local artisans at work, and enjoy cultural dance performances before dinner. The buffet offers a range of dishes, from mild Indonesian favourites for kids to more adventurous flavours for adults, ensuring everyone finds something they love.

It was a truly special night together, and the perfect way to celebrate an incredible Bali family holiday.

Tuesday 6th May – Fly Home Day

Unfortunately, Mason woke up this morning with a terrible earache, which is always the way on fly-out day. I called the hotel doctor, who arrived promptly at 6:30 am to assess him. Thankfully, Mason didn’t have a fever and was generally okay, but there was fluid and redness in his ear. The doctor recommended not flying, which left me feeling very unsure about what to do. Mason, however, was determined that it was time to go home. The realities and joys of travelling with neurodiverse kids. The cost of the doctor’s visit and medication was $250 AUD, which was absolutely worth it for the peace of mind.

Mason wanted to head to breakfast, so we made our way to To’Ge Restaurant to enjoy the incredible spread of food and drinks. The coffee was great, and I loved the smoothie options. Outside, the weather was rainy and windy, almost like Bali knew we were leaving.

Next, Mason wanted to check out the fitness centre, so we headed over and rode the exercise bikes for a while. He was definitely feeling happier and wasn’t complaining about his ear, and we began using the medications the doctor had prescribed.

While the kids relaxed back in the room and the weather cleared, I took a golf buggy down to Kubu Beach, AYANA’s very own private beach. The entire AYANA estate is incredible and so vast that you would honestly need a whole week to scratch the surface.

I then hopped on the shuttle trolley bus back to Wana Lobby, located next to RIMBA, admiring even more of the gorgeous pools along the way.

Back in the room, it was time to pack up for the trip home, somehow fitting everything back into the suitcases.

The staff farewelled us warmly as we departed RIMBA by AYANA, and we left the resort at 12 pm, arriving at the airport just 45 minutes later.

I gave a porter $5 to help with our luggage, which is something I always do, and check-in was surprisingly quick. We were through security and immigration in just 30 minutes. Love that the smart gates are now being used for departure immigration, so easy to use!

The fantastic team at Island Graze had gifted us a beautiful platter for lunch, which was such a treat and meant we didn’t need to buy food at the airport. I did, of course, grab myself a coffee from Revolver.

We boarded our Jetstar flight on time, departing only 10 minutes late. Mason was pleased to see a pie and sausage roll on the menu, and the flight passed quickly, with us landing back in Melbourne at 10:15 pm.

Final Thoughts

This Bali family holiday was busy but also incredibly rewarding. Travelling through different regions of Bali, from Ubud and Sidemen to Nusa Lembongan and down to Legian and the Bukit, reminded us once again just how diverse this island truly is.

This trip was also a working holiday, and we feel so grateful to have collaborated with such a fantastic range of hotels, resorts and villas. Each stay offered something different, and we loved experiencing and sharing a variety of accommodation styles to suit different families, budgets and travel styles.

We know that not every family travels the same way, which is why we love showing you multiple places to stay across Bali, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort with endless facilities, a peaceful jungle escape, or a villa by the beach where you can slow things down.

Even with early mornings, packed days and plenty of movement, this trip reinforced why we keep coming back to Bali. The warmth of the people, the ease of family travel and the range of experiences available make it a destination that continues to work for our family year after year.

We hope this diary-style blog gives you real insight into what it’s like to travel to Bali with kids: the highlights, the busy days, the quieter moments, and everything in between. If you’re planning your own Bali family holiday, we hope our experiences help you find the right place to stay and inspire your next adventure.

Our Driver and Nanny details:

Alex Driver +62 813 3749 7178

Alit Driver +62 877 6160 4525

Berta Nanny +62 813 3810 8760

As always, thank you for following along and supporting our journey. If you enjoyed this travel diary, then you might like to read our July 2025 Bali holiday diary. We stayed in Uluwatu, Sanur and Jimbaran. Click the link here to read our blog post. Also feel free to join our Facebook Group.

Kate xx

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