Paddle Through These 5 Spots for the Best Kayaking in Bali
When I first thought of Bali, all I could imagine were the golden beaches, majestic temples, and, of course, the vibrant nightlife. But then I traded my sun hat for a paddle, and suddenly, I saw a whole new side of Bali.
Yes, I tried kayaking, and it turned out to be one of the most exciting ways to experience the island. In fact, my experiences were so fun that I’m sharing the perfect kayaking spots in Bali so you, too, can try.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of river rapids or a chance to explore Bali’s picturesque coastline, I promise you will enjoy this list. And you may even add kayaking to your list of unforgettable things to do in Bali.
1. Sanur Sea Kayaking by idGuides
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Location: Jl. Danau Tamblingan, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar
Contact: +62 812-1800-8401
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Pricing: $$$
If you’re new to kayaking, Sanur Sea Kayaking by idGuides is a great place to start.
Their kayaking adventure will allow you to paddle along the peaceful waters of Sanur’s coastline, passing historical landmarks like Belanjong Pillar. It’s Bali’s oldest artifact, with detailed writings on the exploits of Sri Kesari, the Sailendra Dynasty’s Buddhist king.
This adventure is more than just a water activity; it’s the closest experience you’ll get to Bali’s heritage while also enjoying nature. A protective reef also lies about 500 meters offshore, making it great for water activities like snorkeling and diving.
Partnered with idGuides, they conduct community-based tourism initiatives that aim to support local artisans and cultural preservation.
| Pro Tip: I recommend booking your tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot and take advantage of discounts. It’s a simple way to secure your place and save money. |
2. Bali Mangrove Adventure
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Website: https://balimangroveadventure.com/en
Location: Jl Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 88 Tuban, Kuta, Badung
Contact: +62 811-3810-9073
Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Pricing: $$$
At Bali Mangrove Adventure, you have two options to see Bali’s beautiful mangrove wildlife: the Morning Mangrove Canoe Tour and the Evening Canoe Tour. These tours let you spot wildlife during the day and catch a glimpse of nocturnal animals at night.
The morning tour lasts 3-4 hours and is great for beginners, families, and couples. It starts with an initial orientation and paddling practice. The 2-hour evening tour includes opportunities for spotting nocturnal creatures, such as crabs and migratory birds.
Additionally, all tourists aged 5 to 65 are covered by insurance, which is included in the price. I also love that the price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a helpful local guide, and all necessary canoe equipment.
| Pro Tip: For the best experience at Bali Mangrove Adventure, it’s highly recommended to plan your canoe tour during high tide in the early morning or late afternoon. This ensures easier navigation through the mangrove waterways. |
3. C.Bali
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Website: https://www.c-bali.com/
Location: Jl. Kedisan, Kedisan, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli
Contact: +62 813-3910-1442
Hours: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM | Tuesday, Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Pricing: $$
One of my friends recommended C.Bali, and I’m so glad we checked them out. They offer a whole new way to see Bali’s beauty. Lake Batur, the island’s largest lake, is in the caldera of an old volcano in Bali.
Aside from its peaceful waters, C.Bali’s canoe experience is unique because it’s a non-motorized zone. Visitors can paddle quietly with the local fishermen.
It also offers bicycle rentals for visitors who are keen to explore Kintamani, where the 1000-year-old “Rites of Peace” stone tablets are located.
But you know what I love the most? C.Bali has strong environmental advocacy. They actively raise awareness about the environmental challenges in the area, specifically sand mining from Mt. Batur’s lava fields.
| Pro Tip: To fully enjoy your canoe experience at Lake Batur, it’s best to rent a canoe early in the day before the wind picks up between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM. |
4. Melangit Bali Outbound
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Website: https://melangitbaliadventure.com/
Location: Jl. Subak Bungsih No. 77, Bakas, Kec. Banjarangkan, Kabupaten Klungkung
Contact: 0813-3837-4590
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Just a quick 40-minute drive from Denpasar, I discovered a unique kayaking adventure in Bakas Village. For 1.5 hours, the kayaking route covers 3 kilometers of the Melangit River, passing spring-fed streams and beautiful stalactites.
The highlight? It’s great for everyone, from people who have never paddled before to those who do it all the time.
When I was there, the staff also had everything ready, like AC transports, local guides, insurance, and gear. After all that fun, we recharged with a delicious lunch at Melangit Bali Restaurant, looking out over the beautiful river.
And if you’re still feeling adventurous, you can cool off in the infinity pool, try either the Melangit swing or Bungsih swing, and join a Balinese cooking class—all in one spot.
| Pro Tip: Reserve your spot and book online to enjoy a 10% discount off the original price. Plus, the savings you pocket can go toward extra treats like access to the infinity pool, a ride on the iconic swings. |
5. Graha Adventure Rafting
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Website: https://grahaadventure.com/
Location: Jl. Raya Kedewatan, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar
Contact: +62 819-9943-1158
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Pricing: $$$
Among the kayaking experiences I’ve had, Graha Adventure truly delivered. Whether it’s rafting, kayaking, ATV rides, or volcano hikes, they offer international-class service with 24/7 reservations.
I love that Graha Adventure takes care of everything. They offer pickup services from Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Kuta, Sanur, and Ubud. You’ll also get welcome drinks, a buffet lunch, insurance, towels, lockers, and professional guides.
I chose kayaking on the Ayung River, one of Bali’s most beautiful rivers. The river runs through a green valley fed by the central mountains.
During the dry season (May to September), the Ayung River flows at Class II-III, which is ideal for beginners. In the rainy season (October to April), it rises to Class III-IV for a more intense ride.
| Pro Tip: After your activity, Graha Adventure provides a generous lunch at their rice paddy-side cafe. It’s a great opportunity to relax and reflect on your adventure. |