Why Bali and Why Solo?

So, you’re thinking about heading to Bali solo? First off, good call. Bali isn’t just a dreamy Instagram backdrop—it’s a playground for wanderers, wellness junkies, and yes, solo female travelers who want both adventure and peace of mind. When I first landed in Bali with my overstuffed backpack and slightly underprepared “I’ll just figure it out” mindset, I realized two things:

Bali can feel like the friendliest island on earth.
You still need your wits about you (because let’s face it, paradise still has traffic jams, scams, and those sneaky monkeys at Uluwatu Temple).

In this guide, I’ll share practical tips, safety advice, and the best places to stay—all tailored to the solo female traveler. And don’t worry, I’ll keep it real. (Spoiler: I did fall for one tourist scam my first week. But hey, live and learn, right?)

Why Bali is Great for Solo Female Travelers

Friendly Vibes Everywhere

The Balinese are known for their warm hospitality. Locals smile, say hello, and genuinely want you to enjoy their island. You’ll rarely feel like a total outsider.

Huge Solo Traveler Community

Bali is like the mothership for digital nomads and backpackers. Whether you’re in Canggu, Ubud, or Seminyak, you’ll find plenty of other solo women sipping coconuts, working from cafés, or swapping travel stories.

Plenty of Affordable Options

From budget hostels to luxe villas, Bali caters to every budget. Plus, food is insanely affordable. (FYI: A plate of nasi goreng can cost less than your Starbucks latte back home.)

Staying Safe in Bali

Let’s talk safety. Is Bali safe for solo female travelers? Short answer: yes, but with common sense.

Watch Out for Traffic (Seriously)

Scooters rule Bali’s roads. If you rent one, always wear a helmet. And if you’re new to riding, maybe stick to Grab rides (their version of Uber). Trust me, Bali traffic is no place to learn scooter skills.

Stay Alert in Crowded Spots

Markets, nightclubs, and temples can get busy. Keep your bag zipped and close. Pickpocketing isn’t rampant, but why risk it?

Don’t Tempt the Monkeys

Yes, those cheeky monkeys in Ubud are adorable. But they also steal sunglasses, snacks, and pretty much anything shiny. Leave your jewelry in your bag when you visit monkey forests or temples.

Late-Night Solo Walks

Avoid wandering down dark alleys at night, especially in party areas like Kuta. Grab a scooter taxi instead—it’s cheap, quick, and safer.

Packing Tips for Solo Female Travelers

Keep it Light but Smart

You don’t need six sarongs and three pairs of sandals. Pack light, and you’ll thank yourself when you’re hopping between Ubud and Uluwatu.

Must-Haves for Bali

Travel insurance (non-negotiable)
Reusable water bottle (plastic waste is a big issue)
Sarong (for temples)
Light rain jacket (because Bali weather is moody)
Power adapter (Indonesia uses type C and F plugs)

Personal Safety Items

Portable door lock for guesthouses
Crossbody bag for day trips
Whistle or alarm keychain (hopefully never needed, but good for peace of mind)

Where to Stay: Best Areas in Bali for Solo Female Travelers

Canggu: The Digital Nomad Hub

Think hip cafés, surf vibes, and endless smoothie bowls. Canggu is where you’ll find a lot of solo women working remotely or learning to surf.

Best for: Meeting people, coworking, healthy food
Where to Stay: Guesthouses near Echo Beach or hostels like Tribe Theory

Ubud: The Cultural & Wellness Escape

Yoga studios, rice terraces, vegan cafés—Ubud screams “spiritual reset.” It’s calmer than Canggu and perfect if you want to focus on wellness.

Best for: Yoga retreats, art, meditation
Where to Stay: Boutique homestays near Monkey Forest Road

Seminyak: Chic and Social

This is the glam side of Bali. Seminyak has trendy restaurants, beach clubs, and shopping. It’s pricier, but you’ll find plenty of upscale stays and safe neighborhoods.

Best for: Nightlife, shopping, stylish vibes
Where to Stay: Boutique hostels or villas with other travelers

Uluwatu: Beaches & Surf

Cliffside views and beach bars. Uluwatu is a little more spread out, so it feels less walkable, but it’s paradise for beach lovers.

Best for: Surfing, sunsets, chilled nights
Where to Stay: Budget surf hostels or cliffside bungalows

Amed: Laidback & Off the Beaten Path

If you want peace, snorkeling, and quiet, Amed is your jam. It’s safe, slower, and super relaxing.

Best for: Diving, chill solo time, avoiding crowds
Where to Stay: Family-run guesthouses with ocean views

Meeting People as a Solo Female Traveler

Worried about feeling lonely? Don’t. Bali makes it almost too easy to meet people.

Join Group Activities

Cooking classes, yoga retreats, and diving trips are perfect for connecting with like-minded travelers.

Coworking Spaces

Places like Dojo Bali or Outpost are buzzing with digital nomads. Even if you’re not working online, you can join community events.

Facebook & WhatsApp Groups

Yes, Bali has thriving online communities. Search for “Canggu Community” or “Bali Travel Girls” and you’ll instantly find travel buddies.

Eating Alone in Bali (Without Feeling Awkward)

Here’s the thing—eating solo in Bali isn’t weird. Everyone does it. Many cafés have long communal tables, so you’ll probably end up chatting with someone anyway.

My Favorite Solo-Friendly Cafés

Crate Café (Canggu): Great for people-watching and massive smoothie bowls.
Clear Café (Ubud): Colorful, cozy, and chill.
The Loft (Seminyak): Trendy but casual enough for solo meals.

And if you’re nervous about dinner alone, grab takeout and enjoy a Netflix night in your guesthouse. Zero judgment.

Money-Saving Tips

Traveling Bali solo doesn’t mean breaking the bank.

Eat local: Warungs (family-run eateries) serve delicious meals for under $2.
Use Grab: It’s cheaper and safer than haggling with random taxi drivers.
Negotiate politely: Bargaining at markets is expected, but keep it friendly.
Avoid ATM fees: Withdraw larger amounts less often, but stay safe by using ATMs attached to banks.

Solo Female Travel Safety Red Flags in Bali

Let’s be real—no place is 100% risk-free. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

Strangers offering too-good-to-be-true deals (I learned this the hard way when I paid double for a scooter rental my first week).
Unlicensed guides or drivers—always book through trusted apps or your guesthouse.
Unfamiliar drinks—don’t accept open drinks from strangers at clubs. Stick with sealed bottles or watch your cocktail being made.

Bonus: Wellness & Self-Care for Solo Women

Traveling solo isn’t just about safety—it’s also about thriving. Bali is perfect for self-care.

Yoga & meditation: Drop into classes at Yoga Barn in Ubud.
Spa days: Balinese massages are heavenly and cost way less than back home.
Surf lessons: Fun, active, and a confidence boost.
Healing sessions: If you’re into reiki, sound baths, or energy work, Bali is the place.

Conclusion: Bali is Totally Doable (and Worth It)

Traveling Bali solo as a woman might feel intimidating before you go, but once you’re there, you’ll see how doable it really is. With a bit of common sense, the right safety habits, and a willingness to say “yes” to new experiences, you’ll thrive.

You’ll walk rice terraces at sunrise, sip coconuts by the beach, and maybe even conquer your first surf lesson. The freedom is addictive.

If you’re still on the fence, here’s my last piece of advice: book the flight. Bali isn’t perfect (what place is?), but for solo female travelers, it’s one of the most rewarding destinations out there.

Happy travels, and maybe I’ll see you in Ubud over a smoothie bowl.