We are planning to go to Bali for the 1st time ever for our honeymoon, in late June/early July. We have 11 days/10 nights, and are planning to spend the 1st 2 nights relaxing in Canggu/Kebokeran/Seminyak area, and then want to spend a good chunk of time based near/in Ubud. However, we are considering Pemuteran up north for good snorkeling and to get away from crowds - we'd ideally like to go and spend a couple of days there, but we really don't want to waste a day driving there and back...any thoughts? Is it worth it to go? Is there a similar place closer to South Bali/Ubud? Or should we just spend 7-8 nights in the Ubud area? In general, we are the type who like to balance seeing new things with relaxing and doing activities, as opposed to trying to see everything in a short period of time, but Pemuteran seemed appealing...thanks for any advice!

I think it depends how much you want to snorkle. The East Coast has some good diving, but to me the best snorkling is still Menjangnan Island, near Pemuteran. In my opinion the Northern beaches and surrounding countryside are less appealing than what you would find in Central and South Bali.

You will be able to get away from the crowds in day trips from Ubud. Other than the town itself, it's not a densely populated area, even during tourist season.

Consider the location of your villa or resort in South Bali. There are some very nice places in Canggu, but the beach is fairly scruffy. You'd have to drive to Seminyak beach.

a full day excursion from the south could take you to the north for some water activities..

my stay in the north two years ago was decent but nothing in comparison to the time we have spent in the south...

hire a driver like putu, who many of us have used... he is fantastic... correspond with him about alternatives and exploring the islands..

i love the alam shanti in ubud---gannga and yumma rooms especially...

A trip up to Northern Bali is certainly worth doing! Snorkeling and diving around Pemuteran, and if you choose to do a short boat trip, Menjangan Island, is wonderful and uncrowded. Also, the trip itself through wonderful scenery and cultural attractions is worth the trip itself. You will actually see Java from Pemuteran.

When friends come to visit I always take them for at least 2 nights. (one to drive up and see sights, one to snorkel and relax, and one to see sights on the way back).It's not that far but because you wll want to make several stops along the way I budget a full day to get there but you can do it in about 3 hours. A possible itinerary could go like this: From Ubud, Taman Ayung temple in Mengwi, up through rice field views in northern Tabanan regency (Jatiluwih, Pacung, Sanda or other) Stops at Lakes, Botanical Gardens, Batukaru Temple, Bedugul Fruit and plant Market, then down the hill to Singaraja, Lovina and then across to Pemuteran. On the way home you can go another route and pass through Kintamani to see Batur Lake and temple, or go even further west to see the charming coves of Amed.

Drivers and guides in Bali know the routes and where to go and what to see. You will not have any problems finding someone great who will be happy to take you and wait/be at your service while you spend 2 days (assuming they don't have any obligations at home. like ceremonies) Their accomodation is usually free and you just negotiate price per day or for the whole trip. Or you can just get a point-to-point driver/guide. Drivers and guides are super easy to get...you will meet many of them who are assigned to your hotel and who are standing by all around Bali. I have several guides who I use all the time but everyone has their own favorites, and what is a great personality for one person may not suit another.

Have a wonderful honeymoon and congratulations!

Google Poinciana Resort Tembok, Bali. A haven and run by a gorgeous Balinese lady and her staff. Amed/Tulamben is not too far away for some fabulous diving. Enjoy!

Thank you so much for all of your input! I think we will minimize in-country travel and stay in 2 places.

Regarding Canggu vs. Seminyak, is there a big difference in the quality of the beaches?

Yes, there is huge difference between the quality of the beaches between Cakung and Seminyak. Cakung is really a residential community, both for short term holiday rentals and long term expat living. There are a few restaurants and resorts, but most people would take advantage of the proximity to Seminyak.

Seminyak is a mostly resort community with hotels, restaurants, clubs, spas, shops and also many villas -- both for short term visitors and long term residents.

Canggu beach is somewhat rugged and undeveloped. I never found it appealing.

Seminyak beach goes on for miles and connects to Kuta and eventually to Canggu. The areas in front of the resorts are swept regularly; some of the areas directly in front of public access roads less so. There are lots of beach restaurants and beach chairs/umbrellas to rent. It is a lively well used beach, but I certainly wouldn't describe it as pristine.

In either location you get big waves and magnificent sunsets.