Let’s face it—nobody wants to be that tourist. You know, the one who unknowingly disrespects the culture, breaks local rules, and ends up all over TikTok for the wrong reasons. The truth is, Balinese culture is incredibly warm and welcoming—but also deeply spiritual, full of customs, rituals, and social norms that visitors aren’t always aware of.
If you’re planning a trip to Bali (and want to avoid embarrassing moments or offending the locals), here’s your go-to guide for what not to do. Think of it as your shortcut to blending in a little better—and having a way more respectful and rewarding trip.
1. Don’t Enter Temples Without Dressing Properly
Temples are everywhere in Bali. You’ll see grand water temples, small family shrines, and stunning jungle sanctuaries that seem straight out of a movie. But here’s the deal—these aren’t just photo ops. They’re sacred spaces.
What to wear:
- Sarong and sash: Always. Doesn’t matter your gender. These are usually provided at major temples.
- Cover your shoulders and knees: That means no tank tops, crop tops, or short shorts.
- Remove your hat and sunglasses before entering temple grounds.
Temples aren’t the place for fashion statements or beachwear. Dress modestly, be quiet, and avoid stepping over offerings (more on that below).
2. Don’t Touch People’s Heads (Even Kids)
In Balinese Hindu culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Touching someone’s head—even as a friendly gesture—is a no-no. That includes patting a cute child on the head, which a lot of tourists do without thinking.
Stick to polite handshakes and respectful nods. And always be aware of your body language—especially around elders and spiritual figures.
3. Don’t Step on Canang Offerings
If you’ve walked anywhere in Bali, you’ve seen them: small, colorful little square trays made of palm leaves filled with flowers, rice, incense, or candy. These are called canang sari, and they’re everywhere—for a reason.
They’re daily offerings to the gods, placed with deep care and intention. Yes, they’re sometimes in the middle of the sidewalk. Yes, they can be hard to avoid. But never, ever step on one, kick it aside, or treat it like trash.
If you accidentally do—no one will shout at you—but it’s still considered highly disrespectful.
4. Don’t Raise Your Voice or Lose Your Cool
Bali operates on a culture of calm and politeness. Losing your temper—whether at a waiter, a driver, or someone at immigration—will get you nowhere fast.
Even if something goes wrong (your order’s wrong, your tour’s late, your scooter’s busted), try to stay relaxed. Balinese people really value harmony and “saving face.” Anger is seen as aggressive and rude.
You’ll get better results—and more respect—by staying calm, smiling, and being patient.
5. Don’t Ride a Scooter Without a Helmet (Or a License)
It’s tempting. The freedom of hopping on a motorbike and cruising through rice fields sounds like the Bali dream. But it comes with risks—and rules.
Here’s what not to do:
- Don’t ride without a helmet. You will get fined, and more importantly, it’s dangerous.
- Don’t ride without an international driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement.
- Don’t ride in a bikini or shirtless. It’s not just about modesty—it’s also just unsafe.
Scooter accidents are one of the top reasons tourists end up in the hospital in Bali. So unless you’re confident and legal to drive, maybe call a Gojek instead.
6. Don’t Disrespect Ceremonies
Bali is full of ceremonies—some small and intimate, others massive and public. You’ll likely stumble across a few during your trip: processions in the street, temple rituals, full-moon festivals.
They’re beautiful, spiritual, and usually open to respectful onlookers.
But here’s the thing:
- Don’t block the procession just to take a better photo.
- Don’t talk loudly, smoke, or laugh during ceremonies.
- Don’t use flash photography or drones unless given explicit permission.
If you’re invited to watch or join, feel honored. Just be humble, ask questions respectfully, and follow the lead of the locals.
7. Don’t Bargain Aggressively
Bargaining is totally normal in Bali—especially at markets, souvenir stalls, or beach vendors. But there’s a fine line between playful haggling and being flat-out rude.
Do:
- Smile and make it fun.
- Offer a counter price politely.
- Be okay walking away if you can’t agree.
Don’t:
- Insult the seller’s price.
- Roll your eyes, scoff, or accuse them of “ripping you off.”
- Keep pushing once it’s clear they’ve said no.
Remember: 10,000 or 20,000 rupiah may be pocket change to you, but it’s a meaningful difference for many locals.
8. Don’t Do Drugs. Full Stop.
Indonesia has extremely strict drug laws. We’re talking long prison terms—even the death penalty—for serious drug offenses.
Don’t buy, carry, or accept anything that even looks suspicious. That includes weed, which many tourists assume is okay because of Bali’s chill vibe. It’s not.
If someone offers you something, say no. Firmly. Walk away. It’s not worth the risk—ever.
9. Don’t Treat Bali Like a Cheap Party Playground
Yes, Bali has beach clubs. It has wild parties in Canggu and DJs spinning all night in Seminyak. But that’s not all it is.
This island is a living, breathing cultural hub. People live here. Pray here. Raise families here.
Don’t:
- Trash the beach after a night out.
- Party so hard you disturb locals living nearby.
- Act entitled just because “you’re on holiday.”
If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it in Bali. Respect goes a long way—and it keeps Bali beautiful for everyone.
10. Don’t Assume Everyone’s Balinese
This one surprises people. Bali is part of Indonesia, and while the island is mostly Balinese Hindu, there are also many Javanese, Sumatran, and foreign residents living and working here.
Not everyone you meet is Balinese.
So instead of saying things like, “All Balinese people are so friendly!” you can say “Everyone I’ve met here has been so welcoming.”
Also: Balinese names can be confusing. Many people are named Wayan, Made, Nyoman, or Ketut. These actually represent birth order, not family names. It’s not weird to meet five Wayans in one day!
11. Don’t Assume It’s OK to Take Photos Everywhere
Bali is stunning, no doubt. But just because something is beautiful doesn’t mean you can photograph it freely.
Think twice before snapping:
- Private homes or family compounds
- Temple rituals or cremation ceremonies
- Children or people in traditional dress (without asking)
The polite move? Ask first. A simple smile and “Boleh foto?” (“Can I take a photo?”) goes a long way.
12. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask, Learn, and Apologize
The truth is—you will make mistakes. Everyone does. Balinese people know you’re not from here, and most are incredibly forgiving when you show genuine curiosity and humility.
If you’re unsure what to do in a temple, ask.
If you accidentally mess something up, apologize.
If you want to learn more—go ahead! Most locals love sharing their culture if you approach with respect and open-mindedness.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About Respect
Traveling in Bali isn’t just about beaches and cheap cocktails. It’s a chance to experience a deeply spiritual, vibrant way of life. The more you respect the local customs, the more doors will open—literally and figuratively.
So slow down. Observe. Smile. And when in doubt, follow the lead of the locals.
You don’t have to be perfect. Just be thoughtful.
Bali will love you for it.
