Bali Holiday Packages for Families with Kids: What You Need to Know

Planning a family holiday in Bali is like planning a mini-adventure—exciting but full of little details that you need to get just right. I’ve been there. The first time I traveled to Bali with my two kids, I had this grand vision of a peaceful island getaway, thinking I could somehow manage relaxation with a couple of toddlers in tow. Spoiler alert: I was wrong. But through the chaos, I discovered some amazing holiday packages that made it easier and a lot more enjoyable for everyone. So, if you’re planning a Bali trip with kids, let me share some lessons learned, practical tips, and what to look for in family-friendly packages.

Don’t Fall for the "Too Good to Be True" Deals

First off, I’ll start with my rookie mistake. I booked a Bali holiday package online that seemed like an absolute steal. I thought, "This is perfect, we’ll have a villa, meals, and tours—all for a low price!" It wasn’t until I arrived in Bali that I realized what I had gotten us into. The "villa" was more of a cramped bungalow, far away from anything fun, and the meals were pretty basic. Worse, the activities they included were all geared towards adults, and my kids were bored out of their minds.

Lesson learned? Always read the fine print. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. You want to make sure that the package specifically mentions kid-friendly activities and amenities. Many hotels and resorts will advertise themselves as "family-friendly," but that doesn’t always mean they’re set up to keep your kids entertained. Look for packages that include things like access to kids' clubs, child-safe swimming pools, and fun day trips suited for little ones.

Best Areas in Bali for Families

Bali is a big island, and trust me, not every area is ideal for families. Kuta, for example, is known for its nightlife and party scene—not exactly where you want to be with toddlers running around. I learned this the hard way. We were staying in the middle of Kuta, and every evening, we could hear loud music and people coming back from bars. My two-year-old was cranky from the noise, and we were all exhausted by the end of the trip.

From my experience, I found that the best areas for families are places like Sanur, Nusa Dua, and Ubud.

• Sanur: Sanur has a laid-back vibe, and the beaches are much calmer. This means your kids can play in the sand, and you don’t have to worry about them being knocked over by waves. Many family packages in Sanur include accommodations right near the beach, plus activities like cycling and water sports that are safe for kids.
• Nusa Dua: If you’re after a more luxurious feel, Nusa Dua is your spot. It’s full of resorts that are designed with families in mind. A lot of the packages here include perks like babysitting services, kid-friendly pools, and even activities like Balinese dance lessons or traditional cooking classes—fun for both the kids and adults!
• Ubud: Ubud isn’t right on the beach, but if your kids are a little older and you’re looking for something more cultural and relaxed, Ubud is perfect. Think rice terraces, monkey forests, and art galleries. Many family holiday packages here offer eco-tours and nature walks, which can be a great way to let the kids explore while learning a little bit about the culture and nature of Bali.

All-Inclusive or DIY: Which is Better?

One of the biggest decisions I faced when booking our trip was whether to go all-inclusive or to plan it all myself. I know a lot of people rave about all-inclusive packages, and they can be super convenient, especially when you’ve got kids and don’t want to deal with the hassle of planning every little detail.

The good news is that Bali offers a lot of great all-inclusive packages, especially in Nusa Dua and Sanur. Many include full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), plus airport transfers, daily activities, and excursions. If you’re traveling with younger kids, this might be a lifesaver. Some of the resorts even offer all-day kids' clubs, which means you and your partner can sneak away for a spa day or a romantic dinner without feeling guilty.

But if you’re like me and you enjoy a little flexibility, a DIY approach might be more up your alley. The second time we visited Bali, I decided to book our accommodations and activities separately. This gave us more freedom to explore at our own pace and to choose activities based on how our kids were feeling each day. Some days we just wanted to relax at the pool, and other days we were up for a full-on adventure, like visiting Bali Zoo or taking a boat trip to see dolphins.

Family-Friendly Activities to Look For

When looking at Bali holiday packages for families, I realized pretty quickly that not all "family activities" are created equal. Some packages offered snorkeling or scuba diving, which my five-year-old wasn’t quite ready for. On the other hand, some packages offered trips to temples or art galleries, but those were things I knew wouldn’t keep my kids’ attention for long.

So, what should you look for? Here are some activities that were hits with my kids and that I recommend seeking out when booking your holiday package:

1. Bali Safari and Marine Park: This is a perfect family day out. The park is home to hundreds of animals, and the kids loved seeing everything from elephants to Komodo dragons. Some holiday packages even include entry tickets or guided tours of the park.
2. Waterbom Bali: If your kids love water parks, this place is a must. Waterbom is one of the best water parks in Asia, with slides and pools for all ages. I found some family packages that offered discounted entry as part of the deal.
3. Bali Bird Park: My little ones were fascinated by the Bali Bird Park, which houses over 1,000 birds from all over the world. It’s educational, fun, and a great way to spend a few hours away from the beach.
4. Rice Terrace Walks in Ubud: If your kids are up for it, exploring the famous rice terraces around Ubud can be a great way to get some exercise and take in the beautiful scenery. A lot of family packages in Ubud include guided walks or bike tours through the rice fields.

Pro Tip: Watch Out for "Hidden" Costs

Here’s something you might not think about until it’s too late: hidden costs. The first time we booked an all-inclusive package, I assumed "all-inclusive" meant exactly that. What I didn’t realize was that certain things weren’t covered, like the kids' meals if they wanted something outside the set menu or extra charges for certain activities. It was a bit of a shock when we got the final bill.

When booking your family package, ask a lot of questions upfront. Make sure to clarify what’s included in the price, especially when it comes to meals and kids’ activities. Some packages will include free meals for children under a certain age, while others will charge extra for anything outside of the main buffet.

Finding the Right Accommodation: Villas, Resorts, or Hotels?

When planning a family trip to Bali, deciding where to stay is crucial. The type of accommodation you choose can make or break your holiday. For us, staying in the wrong place nearly ruined the trip before it even began. On one of our trips, I thought booking a private villa would be ideal. We imagined ourselves lounging by our own pool while the kids played. Well, the villa was beautiful, but it wasn’t exactly family-friendly. The pool wasn’t fenced, and every time I turned around, I was terrified that one of my kids would take a tumble into it. Plus, the villa was located in the middle of nowhere, which made getting to kid-friendly activities a bit of a hassle.

If you’re traveling with young kids, you might want to reconsider the whole "private villa" idea unless you find one that’s specifically designed for families. What we found more practical were family-friendly resorts. Many resorts offer interconnecting rooms, kids’ clubs, and dedicated family pools. These features saved us so much stress—especially the kids’ clubs. Let me tell you, having a few hours of kid-free time while the little ones are entertained by professional staff is a godsend.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to consider when choosing your accommodation in Bali:

• Villas: Villas offer privacy, space, and often come with a private pool. If you have older kids or are traveling with extended family, a villa could be a good choice. Look for villas that are near family-friendly attractions, and make sure to check whether they provide safety features like pool fences.
• Resorts: Resorts are often the easiest and most convenient option for families. Many Bali resorts have family suites, on-site restaurants with kid-friendly menus, and organized activities to keep children entertained. Some even offer babysitting services so parents can get a break. Resorts in Nusa Dua and Sanur are particularly great for families because they’re quieter, more relaxed, and cater to tourists with kids.
• Hotels: Hotels can be a bit hit or miss when it comes to family-friendly amenities. Some have amazing family rooms and pools, while others are more geared towards adults. If you go the hotel route, make sure to check reviews specifically from families and look for those that mention things like playgrounds, kids’ menus, or cribs if you have a baby in tow.

Balancing Adventure and Relaxation

One thing I’ve learned from traveling with kids is that balance is everything. I used to be the type who would plan a packed itinerary for each day, thinking, "We’re here to explore, right?" Wrong. When you’re traveling with kids, you have to pace yourself. Kids need downtime, and to be honest, so do parents.

During our second trip to Bali, I learned to leave room for spontaneity and relaxation. We’d have one or two planned activities for the day, like visiting a temple or going to a beach, but I made sure we had enough free time to just chill. Whether that meant lounging by the pool, taking a short walk through the village, or even having a lazy afternoon in our hotel room, the slower pace made a huge difference. And you know what? I enjoyed the trip more too!

So when looking at Bali holiday packages for families, don’t feel like you need to fill every minute with activities. The best packages will offer a mix of adventure and relaxation. Look for options that allow for flexibility—this way, if your kids are cranky or just need a nap, you’re not stressing out about missing the next big thing on the itinerary.

Best Beaches for Families in Bali

One of the biggest draws for families traveling to Bali is the stunning beaches. But not all beaches are created equal, especially when you’ve got little ones in tow. Some beaches are perfect for families, while others can be a bit too wild with strong currents or packed with partygoers.

Here are a few family-friendly beaches that we loved:

• Sanur Beach: This is my go-to recommendation for families with small kids. The water is calm, there’s plenty of shade, and the beachfront is lined with restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite while keeping an eye on the kids. Sanur Beach is ideal for building sandcastles and paddling in the shallow waters, which is why so many family holiday packages include Sanur in their itineraries.
• Nusa Dua Beach: If you’re staying in Nusa Dua, the beach is pristine, with gentle waves that are perfect for swimming. Many of the all-inclusive resorts in this area have private beach access, which means fewer crowds. It’s the kind of place where you can set up camp for the day and not have to worry about a thing.
• Jimbaran Beach: Jimbaran is famous for its seafood, but it’s also a great spot for families. The waves are a bit stronger here, but it’s still a good place for older kids who want to splash around. Plus, Jimbaran has some of the most amazing sunset views. We spent one evening on the beach enjoying a seafood dinner while the kids played nearby. It was one of the highlights of our trip.
• Padang Padang Beach: If your kids are into surfing (or learning to surf), Padang Padang Beach is a great option. It’s a smaller beach, and while it does get busy, the atmosphere is pretty laid-back. There are surf schools here that cater to families, and the waves are manageable for beginners.

Food and Dining with Kids in Bali

Dining in Bali with kids can be either a breeze or a challenge, depending on where you go. One of the great things about Bali is that it’s super welcoming to families, and most restaurants are used to accommodating little ones. That being said, not all Bali holiday packages include meals, and if your kids are picky eaters like mine, you’ll want to know where to go.

We found that many of the larger resorts and hotels offer kids’ menus with all the basics—think chicken nuggets, pasta, and fries. But we also wanted our kids to try some local food, which can be a bit tricky if they’re not used to different flavors. My trick? I started by introducing them to nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles). Both are pretty mild, and the kids took to them quickly.

Another lifesaver for us was the abundance of fresh fruit in Bali. Our little ones loved the tropical fruits, and we often grabbed some bananas or watermelon for snacks on the go. If you’re worried about where to eat, places like Cafe Batu Jimbar in Sanur or Milk & Madu in Canggu are super family-friendly and have menus that cater to both adults and kids.

One tip I learned the hard way—be mindful of the spice levels. Even dishes that look mild can sometimes pack a punch, so it’s worth asking for no spice or "not spicy" when ordering for kids.

Practical Tips for Stress-Free Travel with Kids

I’m not going to lie: traveling with kids can be stressful. But over the years, I’ve picked up a few tips that have made our Bali holidays much smoother. Here are a few things I wish I knew before our first trip:

1. Pack smart but light: I used to overpack, thinking we’d need every toy, book, and gadget to keep the kids entertained. What I realized is that Bali has pretty much everything you need, and most resorts will have things like high chairs, cribs, and even strollers. Pack the essentials—snacks, sunblock, a couple of toys, and plenty of swimwear—but don’t overdo it.
2. Book direct flights if possible: If you can, book a direct flight to Bali. Layovers with kids are a nightmare. It’s worth spending a little more to avoid the extra travel time and the risk of overtired, cranky kids.
3. Bring a lightweight stroller: Bali’s roads and sidewalks can be a bit bumpy, so a lightweight stroller is a must. We brought a heavy-duty stroller on our first trip, and I regretted it the whole time. A simple, foldable stroller will make your life so much easier.
4. Download offline games and movies: Whether it's the plane ride or a rainy day in the hotel, you’ll be grateful to have some downloaded entertainment for the kids. Trust me, even the most active kids need some downtime, and having their favorite movies or games on hand can be a lifesaver.
5. Be flexible with nap times: Bali is full of distractions, and sticking to a strict nap schedule can be hard. I learned to go with the flow. If the kids were tired, we’d head back to the hotel for a nap. If they weren’t, we’d let them skip it and head to the beach for a couple of hours. The key is to be flexible and not stress out if things don’t go according to plan.

The Magic of Bali for Families

Bali is truly a magical destination for families. Despite a few hiccups along the way, every trip we’ve taken there has been memorable and special in its own way. From the warm, welcoming Balinese people to the stunning landscapes and endless activities, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.

If I had to give one last piece of advice, it would be to savor the moments. Traveling with kids can be chaotic, but it’s also a chance to bond and create memories that will last a lifetime. Take it slow, embrace the surprises, and enjoy the beauty that Bali has to offer.

Happy planning, and here’s to a fantastic family holiday in Bali!