Discovering Bali’s Hidden Treasures: How Aussie Families Are Veering Off the Beaten Path

Over the past decade, Bali has remained one of the top holiday destinations for Australian families, known for its affordability, proximity, and family-friendly resorts. In 2023 alone, over 1.2 million Australian tourists visited Bali, making up a substantial portion of the island’s tourists. Traditionally, most families gravitated toward bustling areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Legian, drawn by the convenience of established tourist amenities. However, a notable shift is occurring: Australian families are increasingly seeking more authentic, off-the-beaten-track experiences, moving away from Bali’s mainstream tourist hubs to explore the island’s rich culture, nature, and peaceful retreats.

The Shift to Authentic Experiences

As post-pandemic travel surges, there is a growing trend among Australian families to prioritise meaningful and immersive travel experiences. Instead of sticking to crowded beach resorts, families are venturing into Bali's lesser-known areas, driven by a desire to escape over-tourism and engage more deeply with the local culture and environment. This shift reflects a broader trend in global travel, where authenticity, sustainability, and cultural immersion are becoming key motivators for travellers.

One of the areas seeing increased interest is Sidemen in East Bali. Once a hidden gem, Sidemen offers breathtaking landscapes, rice terraces, and a more laid-back lifestyle compared to the south’s bustling tourist spots. Here, families can engage in traditional activities like farming or take part in local cooking classes. They can also trek through scenic rice paddies, visit local markets, or take in the spectacular views of Mount Agung. Unlike other highly commercialised parts of the island, Sidemen offers a more intimate connection with the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Ubud: A Cultural Hub with a Twist

While Ubud has always been a popular destination for those seeking a blend of culture and nature, many Australian families are now choosing to stay longer and explore more than just the town center. Areas surrounding Ubud—such as Tegalalang and Payangan—are becoming hotspots for those looking to experience rural Balinese life without sacrificing comfort. These regions allow families to engage in eco-tourism activities, including visiting organic farms, taking yoga classes in the middle of rice fields, and staying in eco-friendly accommodations.

The wellness aspect of Ubud has been particularly attractive to families looking to combine relaxation with cultural experiences. With its focus on sustainability, local artisans, and wellness retreats, Ubud offers families an opportunity to unwind in a serene environment while introducing their children to practices like yoga and meditation.

Canggu and Beyond: The Surf Culture Boom

Canggu, once a quiet surf town, has recently seen a surge in popularity among young families. Though more developed than Bali’s hidden villages, Canggu offers a unique balance between the laid-back surf culture and family-friendly amenities. Many families are opting to stay in private villas in Pererenan or Berawa, areas on the outskirts of Canggu, where they can enjoy both the tranquil countryside and easy access to surfing spots and organic cafes.

What sets Canggu apart is its appeal to families who want a slower pace of life, away from the nightclubs and party scene of Seminyak, but still crave some modern conveniences. Here, kids can take surf lessons, parents can visit yoga studios or organic markets, and the entire family can enjoy healthy, locally sourced meals at one of the many sustainable cafes popping up around town.

Stats Supporting the Shift

In 2023, tourism in Bali rebounded significantly, with more than 4.3 million international tourists visiting the island between January and October, a marked increase from the pandemic years (Forever Vacation). Australian families remained the largest segment of foreign visitors, and a growing number are showing interest in experiences beyond the main tourist corridors.

This trend aligns with the global move toward sustainable and eco-friendly travel. The average length of stay for international visitors has also increased, with many opting to spend more time exploring rural areas or participating in local experiences. For families, this means spending less time in crowded resorts and more time discovering Bali’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

What Lies Ahead for Bali’s Off-the-Beaten-Track Destinations

As more families opt for alternative travel experiences in Bali, businesses in the lesser-known regions must adapt to meet their needs. The rise in eco-tourism and family-friendly adventures means there is a growing demand for accommodations, activities, and services that cater to this emerging demographic.

Local businesses, especially in areas like Sidemen and Tegalalang, are already responding by offering immersive cultural experiences, eco-friendly stays, and activities that cater to children. To fully capitalise on this shift, businesses will need to ensure they can provide the high-quality services that international families expect, from kid-friendly accommodations to English-speaking guides.

One of the critical areas of focus will be sustainability. As families seek more environmentally responsible travel options, accommodations and tour operators will need to prioritize eco-friendly practices, such as minimizing plastic use, supporting local communities, and offering low-impact tours.

How Businesses Can Prepare for the Growing Interest

To ensure the success of this growing trend, local businesses need to adapt by offering tailored services for international families. Here’s how:

1. Upgrade Accommodations:
Offering family-friendly accommodations, such as villas with private pools or eco-lodges with kid-safe amenities, will attract families looking for a comfortable yet sustainable experience.

2. Cultural Immersion Programs:
Businesses can create packages that focus on cultural education, from local cooking classes and traditional dance lessons to workshops on Balinese art and music. Providing activities that are both fun and educational will appeal to families who want their children to experience something beyond the typical tourist attractions.

3. Sustainability Practices:
As eco-tourism grows, emphasizing sustainable business practices will be crucial. Partnering with local communities to offer authentic experiences, reducing plastic waste, and supporting conservation efforts will help attract conscientious travelers.

4. Language Accessibility:
English-speaking staff and guides will be essential in making non-touristy areas more accessible to international families. Offering resources such as maps, guides, and digital apps in multiple languages will enhance the travel experience for families who want to explore beyond the main tourist spots.

As Australian families increasingly move away from Bali’s crowded tourist hubs in search of more meaningful, authentic experiences, the island’s hidden gems are set to gain more attention. Whether it’s the peaceful villages of Sidemen, the cultural richness of Ubud’s outskirts, or the surf culture in Canggu, Bali offers plenty of opportunities for families to discover a different side of the island. By embracing sustainability and cultural immersion, businesses can position themselves to thrive as this shift in tourism unfolds.

Bali’s enduring charm, coupled with the desire for unique, off-the-beaten-track experiences, means that the island will continue to be a top destination for Australian families for years to come.