Eco-Friendly Bali: Top Tips for Sustainable Bali Travel

When you think of Bali, you think of long stretches of beautiful coastline, vibrant green rice fields, temples, quaint streets and small rural villages that live very similarly to the way they have been living for decades. You also think of boutique shopping, world-class restaurants, luxury day spas, magnificent beach clubs and stunning 5 star hotels. It’s quite the contrast! And in order to preserve the natural beauty of this special island, it’s so important that locals, businesses and tourists work together. This means operating with a long term vision and opting for eco-friendly and sustainable choices wherever possible.

Of course, when you’re on holiday these things may not always be top of your mind! You’re likely thinking about spa treatments and sunset cocktails or which yoga class to try that day! However, Bali has a special magic and spirit of its own, and its very likely that anyone that visits this island cannot help being touched by the land, the people and the culture. In this way, it becomes easy to want to preserve this incredible place so that many generations- both local and visitors- can enjoy it just as it is.

Here’s 10 eco-friendly tips for sustainable Bali travel. Remember, every little bit counts and while these may seem like small things, if everyone adopted them, it would lead to a huge positive impact. Be the change you want to see in the world, starting in beautiful Bali.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #1 : Take a keep cup

You may not be thinking that Bali is a hot spot of decent coffee. However, think again! Trust us, you’re going to want to be sampling those fresh coconut milk lattes whilst you’re in Bali, especially in Canggu which is well known for its coffee addiction and high quality cafe culture! If you like the idea of strolling the shops or beach with your brew, bring along a keep cup for your takeaways from home to save on those disposable cups

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #2: Take a water bottle

Whilst you can’t drink out of the tap in Bali, there are many places you can refill your bottle, so do bring along one from home, or you can pick one up from the local health stores or eco-friendly stores too. On your Bali retreat with us, a beautiful drink bottle is actually included in your goodie bag and purified water is on hand for you to top up your bottle anytime. You certainly don’t want to get dehydrated in the Bali climate!

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #3: Eat in not takeaway

Whilst many cafes in Bali do offer recyclable or biodegradable packaging now, you’re always better to skip it altogether and eat in! Bali cafes are lovely and a perfect place to relax, enjoy your email, take in the sights and maybe even meet some new people whilst you’re there.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #4: Support local and eco friendly places

Bali in general, and Canggu in particular have become far more eco-minded and eco-friendly in recent years. In Canggu you will find a plethora of eco-friendly cafes, shops, markets, spas and locally-run businesses. Supporting locally owned businesses is not only a great way to support Balinese people, but also gives you a real authentic experience.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #5: Think about transport

Many tourists come and hire scooters right away. However, one of the best ways to explore Bali is simply by foot or by bicycle. When going further afield, try and support the local people by taking taxis or private drivers. If you’re heading to other islands, op for boats rather than planes where possible too. We love offering guests free access to bicycles and also do a sunrise bike tour around Canggu with guests each week too.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #6: Enjoy Bali’s natural wonderland

Its very easy to entertain yourself in Bali simply by exploring all of the islands natural wonders. From majestic waterfalls to stunning rice fields to beautiful ornate temples, pristine beaches and even hiking up volcanos- there is plenty to see and experience naturally. On your Bali retreat we love introducing guests to many of these incredible natural sights- guests visit waterfalls and temples, go on eco-cycles through the rice fields, explore Bali’s underwater world and so much more.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #7: Opt for healthy cafes

Bali, and again, Canggu in particular, has endless options when it comes to healthy natural food. Many cafes work with local farmers or have their own farms, and opt for sustainable practices wherever they can. Some of the cafes in Canggu that we highly recommend are Shady Shack, Motion Cafe , Bali Buddha, Samadi and Clear Cafe. On retreat, we always work with local farmers and suppliers and have a ‘no compromise’ rule on the quality of our natural ingredients. Rest assured on retreat you will enjoy the best of the best when it comes to healthy, natural (and delicious!) food whilst in Bali.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #8: Shop at markets

Markets are a great way to support local Balinese people and purchase handmade and authentic gifts and souvenirs to take back home with you. There are lots of great markets around Bali and in Canggu, we love taking our retreat guests to two markets each week. One is the Sunday Samadi Market which offers lots of delicious healthy food, organic produce, homemade gifts and yoga wear. The other is the Barisa market which is right by the ocean and has lots of boutique hand made quality items that our guests love to explore! These are weekly excursions that we love sharing with our Bali Retreat guests.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #9: Say no to plastic!

This is a simple one and one that feels as though it’s drilled into us now no matter where in the world we live or visit! However it’s still worth mentioning. Wherever possible, say no to plastic- take your own straw or go without, take your own reusable shopping bag to Bali or get one there. There’s lots of simple ways to choose the eco-friendly option and usually its better for you and the environment too. Its also a great way to educate other people around you and inspire positive action. We always do our best to avoid plastic on retreat. All snack boxes are made with natural packaging or reusable packaging and we use bamboo straws for all drinks served.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #10: Use natural sunscreen

Unfortunately, most sunscreens have got the harmful ingredient oxybenzone inside. This is an ingredient that kills and bleaches coral reefs. When packing, pick yourself up an eco-friendly or ‘reef safe’ sunscreen – these are becoming more popular these days too. You will likely also find some in the health store in Bali if you’re already on the island. They may be a little more expensive but again- likely better for your own skin and better for the wildlife and natural habitat.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #11: Be a trash hero!

If you happen to be walking along the beach and see a piece of rubbish- pick it up! Every little bit counts, and again, this sets a grat example for both locals and tourists alike. If you’re feeling really inspired, you can join an organised beach clean. The Trash Hero Canggu Beach Clean runs weekly. It’s a great way to do your little bit to give back to Bali and you’ll likely meet a bunch of really great people while you’re there.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #12: Turn off your AC and lights

It’s easy to switch into holiday mode and forget about the little things. When you leave your room, make sure you turn off the AC and the lights. Conserving energy goes a long way in lowering the islands carbon footprint so whilst on holiday, be conscious of ways you can help to conserve power.

Sustainable Bali Travel Tip #14: Feeling inspired? Volunteer!

Lastly, if you really want to get involved in protecting Bali’s land and habitat, there are lots of options to choose from. This is a great resource if you want to explore some eco-friendly Bali volunteering options-

On retreat we also have our own foundation- Creating Futures Foundation– which supports local children and teaches them english and also fun activities like how to surf. We also support a local orphanage that is run by one of our amazing cooks, Putu. We offer tours of these special places and you are also welcome to donate if you feel to.

Ready for a sustainable Bali vacation?!

So there you have it- simple ways to really support Bali whilst enjoying your Bali holiday or Bali retreat at the same time! Every little bit really does help, and making a conscious effort to support eco-friendly Bali businesses and practices goes such a long way in creating and securing a positive future for this beautiful island and its local community.

At our Luxury Bali retreat it is so important to us to always choose the best options we can when it comes to eco-friendly and sustainable products, suppliers and practices on retreat. If you’re looking for a luxury wellness escape that also ticks the boxes when it comes to fostering a positive impact on Bali, we’d be honoured to welcome you here.