Bali has a long-standing reputation as a tropical paradise for travelers, but recently, it has also become a popular destination for families looking to relocate and build a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle. With its family-friendly atmosphere, accessible cost of living, and an endless variety of activities, Bali offers an enticing mix for parents seeking a vibrant yet balanced life for themselves and their children. Here’s how you can create a fulfilling family life in Bali.
1. Family-Friendly Lifestyle in Bali
Bali is known for its warm, welcoming culture. Balinese people are family-oriented, and children are cherished members of the community. You’ll find locals eager to interact with your kids, making Bali feel like a friendly, inclusive place to raise a family. With international communities thriving across the island, there are plenty of family meet-up groups, international schools, and even parent co-working spaces with child care facilities.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Bali can be surprisingly affordable compared to Western countries. With a bit of research, families can find reasonable housing, budget-friendly groceries, and access to a variety of family activities. Renting a villa with a pool, a home with a garden, or an apartment near the beach are popular options, allowing families to enjoy Bali's natural beauty while keeping within budget.
Safety and Healthcare: Bali’s healthcare facilities have improved significantly in recent years, with international-standard clinics and hospitals in popular areas like Denpasar, Canggu, and Ubud. Many expat families opt for health insurance plans that cover treatments both locally and abroad, providing peace of mind.
2. Educational Opportunities in Bali
For families considering a longer-term stay, Bali has a number of international and local schooling options. Schools like the Green School, which emphasizes sustainability and creativity, and Dyatmika School, which offers an internationally recognized curriculum, are popular among expat families. These schools encourage hands-on learning and outdoor education, fitting perfectly with Bali’s natural environment.
In addition to traditional schooling, Bali’s multicultural environment offers endless opportunities for cultural exchange. Children have the chance to learn Bahasa Indonesia, explore Balinese traditions, and even participate in local celebrations and festivals, enriching their education in ways that go beyond the classroom.
3. Family Activities Across Bali
Bali is filled with activities that appeal to all ages, allowing families to enjoy quality time together while discovering new hobbies and interests. Here are some of the top activities for families:
Beach Days and Water Sports: Bali is surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for family outings. Sanur, for example, is a quieter beach ideal for young children, with shallow waters and a scenic beachfront pathway. For families with older children, beaches like Nusa Dua offer snorkeling, surfing, and other exciting water activities.
Wildlife Encounters: Bali has many opportunities for children to interact with animals. Bali Safari and Marine Park, Bali Zoo, and Ubud Monkey Forest are popular destinations where kids can see animals up close and learn about wildlife conservation. In the northern part of the island, Lovina Beach offers dolphin-watching tours for families to witness these playful creatures in their natural habitat.
Rice Terrace Walks and Volcano Treks: Bali’s iconic rice terraces and mountains make for unforgettable family outings. Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud offers beautiful, kid-friendly trails, while families with older children might enjoy trekking up Mount Batur to catch a breathtaking sunrise.
Cultural Experiences: Bali is rich in traditions, and families can dive into local culture by attending Balinese dance performances, visiting temples, or joining art and craft workshops. The Ubud Royal Palace often hosts dance performances, and nearby art studios provide classes in batik-making, painting, and pottery, which are perfect for all ages.
4. Building a Balanced Lifestyle
Bali's laid-back pace of life offers families a chance to create a balanced routine, blending work, leisure, and family time harmoniously. Many parents find it easier to maintain a healthy work-life balance here due to the slower pace and community-driven atmosphere. This balance encourages families to spend quality time together and explore the outdoors rather than be tied to screens and devices.
For parents working remotely, Bali’s co-working spaces and reliable Wi-Fi make it possible to maintain professional commitments while still enjoying family time. Areas like Ubud and Canggu, known for their co-working hubs and cafés, are especially popular among digital nomads with families.
5. Tips for a Smooth Transition to Family Life in Bali
Choose the Right Location: Bali offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. Canggu is known for its modern amenities and family-friendly atmosphere, while Ubud is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and cultural experiences. Sanur, on the other hand, offers a quieter setting, popular among families with younger children.
Get Involved in the Community: Joining local and expat parent groups can be invaluable for navigating life in Bali. Many communities organize family-friendly events, playdates, and gatherings that provide support, advice, and social opportunities.
Learn the Language: Learning a bit of Bahasa Indonesia can go a long way in building relationships with locals. It also encourages children to learn about other cultures and languages, which can be incredibly rewarding.
Balance Screen Time with Outdoor Activities: Bali’s natural beauty and endless activities make it easy to limit screen time and encourage outdoor play. Whether it’s surfing lessons, yoga classes for kids, or a family hike, there’s always something new to explore.
Embracing Family Life in Bali
Creating a balanced and fulfilling family life in Bali is entirely possible with a little planning and a willingness to embrace the island’s unique lifestyle. From the friendly community vibe and educational opportunities to the endless list of family activities, Bali offers an environment that enriches family life in so many ways. With an affordable cost of living, access to quality schooling, and a lifestyle focused on well-being, Bali truly lives up to its reputation as a paradise — not just for tourists but for families looking to create lasting memories.