Planning a family day trip to Bali? Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, like me, there’s nothing quite like exploring the island with kids in tow. From breathtaking temples perched in the sea to mischievous monkeys and scenic photo spots, Bali has a way of turning ordinary afternoons into unforgettable adventures. Pack your sunscreen, hats, water bottles, pram-friendly shoes, and a sense of curiosity, because family fun starts the moment you step out the door.
WHOA! First Time at Tanah Lot Temple
I’ve been to Bali 36 times, yet somehow I had never visited Tanah Lot Temple Bali. How does that even happen? Sure, it’s crowded with busloads of tourists, but the temple itself is breathtaking, almost magical.
We decided to do a Tanah Lot Sunset tour through Samabe’s Signature Activities, which were included in their Unlimited Privileges package. Admittedly, Tanah Lot is closer to Ubud than our base in Nusa Dua, so the long drive made me question my logic. Then again, when has logic ever stopped me?
Most of the afternoon was spent navigating narrow, winding roads, but the moment we glimpsed the iconic rock temple glimmering against the sea, I knew it had all been worth it. Those sunset views were magnificent.
Stop 1 – Taman Ayun: A Royal Temple
Our first stop was Taman Ayun, a stunning temple of the Royal Mengwi Dynasty. The kids, Mia and Caius, weren’t exactly captivated. It was hot, sunny, and there was little shade, but I loved capturing the temple architecture and stone carvings on camera. Family photo tip: bring hats and sunscreen if you’re visiting with little ones.
Stop 2 – Alas Kedaton: Friendly Monkeys
Next, we visited Alas Kedaton, which has a smaller, calmer monkey population than the Ubud Monkey Forest. The kids enjoyed spotting baby monkeys, and I loved watching them interact. Our personal guide showed us the best paths and explained the history, though we politely declined her shop at the end. A handy tip: if a monkey gets too curious, show empty hands, they’re usually only after food.
The walk here is shaded and pram-friendly, making it a much easier family experience than some of Bali’s other monkey sanctuaries.
Stop 3 – Tanah Lot: A Temple in the Sea
By 3 pm, we reached the Hindu Temple, Tanah Lot. After a quick ice cream stop to keep Mia and Caius happy, we wandered through streets lined with restaurants and souvenir shops toward the ocean.
Perched in the waves was the famous sacred site, Pura Tanah Lot, or “Land in the Sea,” dating back to the 16th century. This temple is part of the seven sea temples forming a chain along Bali’s southwestern coast. According to legend, Tanah Lot is protected by the sea god Dewa Baruna, who guards the temple from evil spirits, adding a magical layer to the crashing waves and dramatic rock formation. Each temple was strategically placed to be visible from the next, a clever system that amazed me as much as the kids’ excitement over spotting crabs on the rocks.
During high tide, the temple is surrounded by water, making it a photographer’s dream. We arrived at low tide, so we explored a nearby rocky outcrop, which offered sweeping panoramic views of Tanah Lot. Keep an eye out for small caves carved by waves, they’re home to sea snakes, believed to guard the temple.
Our tour wasn’t timed for sunset, so we didn’t wait for the golden hour. With kids in tow, a three-hour wait would have been, let’s just say, “less fun,” but it gave me another excuse to return.
Why Touring Tanah Lot with Kids Works
The tour guide adjusted the itinerary perfectly for our kids, keeping things moving while letting us enjoy the highlights. Touring by minivan means you can sit back, relax, and sneak in a little nap after a long day of sightseeing, a total win for family trips.
The kids adored the monkeys and small adventures along the way, while I was completely mesmerized by Tanah Lot’s beauty. It’s one of those places that reminds you why Bali is such a magical family destination.
Best Time to Visit Tanah Lot with Kids
The best time to visit Tanah Lot is during the dry season, from April to October, when the skies are clearer, and the paths are easier for little feet and prams. If you want those iconic, crashing-wave photos, aim for high tide, ideally a couple of hours before sunset, but be prepared for crowds – especially on weekends. Arriving in the late afternoon gives you cooler temperatures, better lighting for photos, and the chance to enjoy ice cream with the kids without melting in the midday heat. For families, early planning and flexible timing make the experience magical rather than stressful.
What to Pack for a Bali Family Day Trip
- Hats and sunglasses for sun protection
- Water bottles to stay hydrated
- Sunscreen (reapply regularly)
- Pram-friendly shoes or sandals
- Snacks for kids (ice cream helps negotiate temple visits!)
- Camera or phone for epic photos
After a long day, the drive home was the perfect opportunity to take a little nap, which also happens to be the best part about organised tour transport. Once you have taken your fill of activity and sightseeing you can sit back and relax while someone else takes care of driving and navigation.
FAQ: Visiting Tanah Lot with Kids
Q: Is Tanah Lot suitable for kids?
A: Yes, with shaded walkways, lookout rocks, and manageable paths, it’s very doable for families. Bring snacks and sun protection to keep everyone happy.
Q: Can you visit Tanah Lot temple complex at high tide?
A: Absolutely, high tide offers the most dramatic views, with the temple completely surrounded by water, perfect for photos.
Q: What other family-friendly temples are nearby?
A: Check out Taman Ayun, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, and Alas Kedaton, all offering accessible walks, wildlife sightings, and cultural learning for kids.
Q: What is the entrance fee for Tanah Lot?
A: Entrance to Tanah Lot costs around IDR 60,000–70,000 per adult and IDR 30,000–40,000 per child, though prices can change slightly. Kids under a certain age may enter for free. Fees help with maintenance and preserving this beautiful sea temple, so it’s worth budgeting for when planning your family day trip.
Family-Friendly Stays in Bali
If you’re planning a trip to Bali with kids, choosing the right place to stay is key. Bali offers everything from boutique resorts to all-inclusive luxury villas. During our latest adventure, we stayed at Samabe Bali Suites & Villas, which felt like the perfect mix of indulgence and convenience for families. Rooms with ocean views or family suites typically cost around USD 250–350 per night, though prices can fluctuate depending on the season. Many resorts now offer kids’ clubs, pool access, and inclusive activities, so it’s worth checking what’s included before booking.
Other popular family-friendly areas include Seminyak, Ubud, and Nusa Dua, each offering easy access to Bali’s beaches, cultural attractions, and kid-friendly experiences.
Check out Nusa Dua Family Resort: 13 Reasons Teens Choose Grand Mirage Resort.
And 5 Reasons Kids Choose Holiday Inn Bali Benoa.
We are also big fans of Looking For A Popular Family Resort in Kuta? Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort.
Things to Do in Bali with Kids
Bali is an absolute playground for families. Beyond the temples and beaches, you can try activities like snorkeling with tropical fish, bike rides through rice terraces, cooking classes, or even marine wildlife tours. Don’t forget waterparks, beachside playgrounds, and cultural performances, which keep little ones entertained while adults soak up the scenery. For us, the ultimate family adventure is combining a mix of cultural, wildlife, and sunset experiences, and our recent Tanah Lot tour ticked all those boxes.
Check out my complete list of 101 Things To Do In Bali With Kids.
Or if your kids are older, like mine now 81 Best Things to Do in Bali with Teens.
And definitely don’t miss 15 Things That Make Sense At Asia’s #1 Water Park: Waterbom Bali.
Explore With Erin Wrap Up
Tanah Lot is a must-see family-friendly Bali temple that combines Balinese culture, nature, and photo opportunities. Visiting with kids is doable, especially if you plan stops carefully and factor in shade, snacks, and ice cream. We left with happy kids, Instagram-worthy photos, and plans to return at high tide for a sunset visit.
For families planning Bali adventures, a day trip including Taman Ayun, Alas Kedaton, and Tanah Lot covers cultural experience, spiritual significance, wildlife, and scenic views, basically a crash course in everything Bali is about, all in a few hours.
