10 Bad Things About Bali That May Surprise You

Bali is a small island, but its reputation far exceeds its size, attracting travelers from all over the world for its unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and spiritual allure. My recent trip gave me the chance to explore various parts of the island. From the vibrant rice terraces of Ubud to the bustling energy of Kuta to the quieter coastal town of Sanur, each place had its own distinct vibe. 

However, for all its beauty, there are also some challenges and downsides to Bali that travelers may find surprising. Bali has captivated countless hearts, including mine, but these issues present a side of the island that first time visitors should be prepared for. 

10 Bad Things About Bali That Surprised Me:

1. Trash on the Beaches

I did not expect to see so much trash on the beach during my visit to Bali. While I had heard about Bali’s beauty and pristine shores, the sight of plastic bottles, food wrappers, and other debris scattered along the sand was disappointing. The amount of trash on Bali’s beaches is mainly due to a combination of inadequate waste management, the heavy use of single-use plastics, and the seasonal monsoon rains. The island’s infrastructure struggles to handle the waste generated by both the local population and millions of tourists. Additionally, Bali is affected by global plastic pollution, as ocean currents bring trash from other regions of Indonesia and beyond. 

2. Plastic Use and Environmental Pollution

The use of single-use plastic in Bali was surprising and a bit disheartening. I saw plastic bottles, bags, and straws everywhere. While Bali has implemented some bans on plastic, the recycling infrastructure hasn’t caught up, and plastic waste can be hard to avoid. I tried carrying a reusable bottle with me, but it was difficult to find water to refill it with. Local businesses and hotels may offer water refill stations, but not always. The environmentalist in me cringes every time I think about all the water bottles I went through.

3. Undrinkable Tap Water

One thing you can’t do in Bali is drink the tap water. It’s not safe. I don’t even brush my teeth with it. Bottled or filtered water is a must. At most restaurants in Bali, drinking water served to customers is typically filtered or bottled, making it safe to drink. However, it’s always wise to double-check to avoid any risks. If you’re at a more casual or roadside spot though, it’s safest to stick to sealed bottled water to avoid any health issues. If you use ice, just make sure it’s got a hole in the center—it usually means the ice has been factory-made and is purified.

4. Heavy Traffic and Congestion

The traffic in Bali can be intense, especially in the busy tourist areas on the southern half of the island. The roads are often narrow and packed with cars, motorbikes, and the occasional stray dog. There don’t appear to be any road rules either. Everyone just weaves in and out of traffic with an amazing sense of trust and spatial awareness. Just be prepared to be stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic more often than not. Bali is a small island, but a trip that looks short on the map can take hours. Plan accordingly.

5. Lack of Public Transportation

Bali doesn’t have a solid public transit system like buses or trains, so getting around the island requires a little more planning. Taxis, private drivers, and motorbikes are the main modes of transport. For shorter trips, Grab (like Uber in the US) is the way to go. For longer trips, or certain remote areas that are hard to reach, you’ll need to hire a driver. To minimize travel, when I went to Ubud, I planned my activities that were a bit further away all on the same day. This way I only need to hire a private driver for one day.

6. Noise from Nightlife and Bars

In popular tourist areas, especially Kuta and Seminyak, Bali’s nightlife can get loud. Bars, nightclubs, and beach parties are common, so if you’re staying nearby, you might experience noise late into the night. This contrasts with quieter areas like Sanur and Ubud, but it’s something to consider when booking accommodations.

7. Stray Dogs

Stray dogs are common in Bali, and while many are harmless, some can be territorial. I noticed them on beaches, around temples, and even in smaller neighborhoods. For animal lovers, it can be tough to see so many dogs without homes, and for those who aren’t as comfortable around dogs, it can be a bit unsettling. Bali also has a few shelters and organizations working to support and care for the stray population, so consider visiting or donating if you’re looking to help.

8. Aggressive Vendors

Markets, beaches, and even temple entrances in Bali can be lined with vendors. Many were friendly, but some were quite insistent, even pulling on my arm. I remember politely declining several offers for souvenirs and sarongs, but some vendors would follow me for a bit, hoping to convince me. I get that this is a natural part of the tourism dynamic, but it can get overwhelming. I found that a firm but friendly “no, thank you” usually worked, but be prepared for persistence—especially in tourist-heavy areas.

9. Tourist Gimmicks

Bali is famous for its photogenic spots, but some of them are designed to cater specifically to Instagram. There are “Bali swings” and “Heaven’s Gates” everywhere—paid photo spots that can feel a bit forced and artificial, especially if you’re hoping for an authentic experience. I visited one of these spots and quickly realized it was set up for quick photo ops, with little connection to Bali’s true culture or natural beauty. No, thank you.

10. Lack of Respect from Some Tourists

As Bali has grown in popularity, some tourists have shown a lack of respect for the local culture and customs. I saw people walking around temple areas in revealing clothes, climbing onto sacred statues, and even stepping on religious offerings that locals had placed on the ground. Balinese people are incredibly kind and open to visitors, so it was tough to see this disregard from some travelers. Not only does this kind of behavior affect the local community’s experience, but it also puts a negative spotlight on all visitors. I travel to genuinely experience and appreciate different ways of life, so seeing this lack of respect to the culture really bothered me. Do your research before traveling! 

Final Thoughts

Despite the challenges Bali faces, the island offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and unique experiences. Bali’s stunning landscapes, traditional ceremonies, and welcoming locals make it a one-of-a-kind destination. If you’re prepared for its downsides and plan your trip wisely, you can still have a fulfilling and memorable experience. The magic of Bali lies in its diversity—there’s something for everyone, and with the right mindset, the positives far outweigh the negatives.