The Ultimate Guide To Shopping in Bali

Where to Shop in Bali

Each area in Bali exudes a different vibe and caters to different shopping needs. Whether you're looking for luxury goods, traditional crafts, or laid-back beachwear, you'll find a shopping area that fits the bill. Be sure to travel around and explore these diverse shopping districts to fully experience the retail richness of Bali.

Seminyak: For the sophisticated shopper, Seminyak offers an upscale shopping experience with its array of designer boutiques, high-end jewellery shops, and luxury brand stores. The streets here are lined with fashion stores and galleries, making it a prime spot for those looking for quality and style.

Ubud: The cultural heart of Bali, Ubud is synonymous with artisanal shopping. Here, one can immerse in a world of art, craft, and traditional Balinese products. This area is best for those who are interested in cultural artefacts, such as intricate stone carvings, expressive paintings, and woodwork.

Kuta: A bustling area famous for its beach, Kuta also offers a lively shopping scene. It's a great area for casual shopping, where you can find local brands, surf shops, and simple souvenirs. The Kuta Art Market is a hub for tourists seeking to bring home a piece of their Bali holidays to remember.

Legian: Adjacent to Kuta, Legian is also a tourist-friendly area with a mix of shops selling clothing, surf gear, and souvenirs. It's a bit more relaxed than Kuta, but still offers plenty of shopping opportunities, especially for those looking for casual wear and beach fashion.

Canggu: For a more laid-back shopping experience, Canggu is the place to be. It's quickly becoming a go-to spot for bohemian and eclectic finds. The area is dotted with stores selling unique handicrafts, vintage items, and organic products.

Denpasar: The capital city of Bali, Denpasar, offers a more local shopping experience. The city's markets, such as the Badung and Kumbasari traditional markets, are a favourite with locals and offer a variety of textiles, traditional snacks, and household items at local prices.

Nusa Dua: This area is known for its luxury resorts and also houses some upscale shopping complexes. Bali Collection in Nusa Dua is a comprehensive, open-air mall with a selection of international and local brands, catering to tourists staying in the nearby hotels.

Bali Shopping & Nearby Deals

If you need some help finding accommodation near your favourite shopping destination, check out our packages below.

Outlets & Malls v Street Markets & Stalls

For those with a penchant for luxury and air-conditioned comfort, Bali's shopping malls offer a reprieve from the tropical heat. Beachwalk Shopping Center in Kuta provides a mix of high-end brands and casual wear, while Seminyak Village boasts chic boutiques with a collection of local and international designers. In these glistening malls, one can find everything from designer apparel to high-tech gadgets.

Venture beyond the malls, and the true essence of Balinese shopping unfolds in the street markets and stalls. Ubud Art Market, locally referred to as 'Pasar Seni Ubud', is a kaleidoscope of vibrant colours and textures, offering a range of items such as silk scarves, handmade woven bags, baskets, hats, and many other hand-crafted goods. Here, the connection to local culture is evident, as many of the goods sold are produced by the local communities.

What to Buy in Bali

With so much retail therapy on offer, every shop and street corner presents a tempting trader vying for your custom. Although there are products to cater to every shopper's desire, there are some key categories that Bali really excels in. From classic souvenirs and famous handicrafts to designer fashion, silverwear, art and even home décor, these quintessential purchases capture the essence of Bali in tangible form.

Souvenirs & Handicrafts: When it comes to souvenirs, Bali's markets and stalls are overflowing with choices. Popular items include Balinese masks, intricately carved wooden figures, and delightful paintings that reflect the island's rich culture and heritage. In areas like Celuk, Mas, and Ubud, one can witness artisans creating these masterpieces, which can be bought as treasured keepsakes to remind you of your journey.

Beachwear: Given Bali's vibrant beach culture, beachwear is a must-buy item. Sarongs, swimsuits, and beach dresses are available in a myriad of styles and tropical patterns, perfect for enjoying the island's beautiful beaches or for taking a piece of Bali summer back home.

Designer Fashion: Whilst Bali might be steeped in tradition, it also caters to the lover of modernity and luxury. Designer boutiques are sprinkled across Seminyak and Petitenget, where you can find not only international labels but also high-quality local brands that showcase the island's fashion-forward side.

Textiles: The island is famous for its batik and ikat fabrics. You can find these patterned textiles in a variety of forms, from clothing to tablecloths to wall hangings. Batik class workshops are also popular, where you can create your own fabric to take home.

Natural Beauty Products: Bali is also renowned for its beauty products, made from local ingredients such as coconut oil, aloe vera, and essential oils derived from the lush Balinese flora. These natural products make for ideal wellness souvenirs.

Silverware: The village of Celuk is particularly noted for its silver jewellery. Here, you can purchase finely crafted pieces, often combined with locally sourced gemstones, at a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere.

Art: Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali and home to numerous art galleries where you can purchase paintings by local artists. The styles vary widely, offering everything from traditional Balinese scenes to modern abstract works.

Homeware & Decor: For those wishing to bring a touch of Balinese style into their homes, there are plenty of options. Aromatic candles, incense, and handmade ceramics are widely available, alongside larger items like wooden furniture and stone statues.

Top 10 Shops in Bali

1. Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud): A cultural treasure trove, this market is the place to find artisanal crafts, from vibrant textiles to handmade jewellery and traditional Balinese paintings.

2. Seminyak Village: This modern mall is a hub for the fashion-savvy, offering a mix of local boutiques and international brands, alongside stylish cafes and restaurants.

3. Celuk Village: The silver-making epicentre of Bali, Celuk is the place to purchase exquisite silver jewellery directly from the artisans who craft them.

4. Jalan Raya Ubud: The main street in Ubud is lined with shops selling a variety of goods from clothing to art, suitable for tourists looking for a one-stop-shop.

5. Kuta Art Market: A more laid-back shopping experience, this market offers Bali t-shirts, sarongs, and beachwear at bargain prices.

6. Monkey Forest Road: Another street in Ubud known for its dense concentration of shops selling wood carvings, stone carvings, beads, and baskets, as well as branded and designer clothing stores.

7. Garlic Lane (Jalan Sahadewa): Located in Legian, this street is famous for its mix of shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and spa products, as well as bars and restaurants to relax in after shopping.

8. Krisna Oleh-Oleh Bali: A great place to shop for souvenirs in bulk, Krisna offers a fixed-price environment where you can get everything from Balinese snacks to clothing.

9. Discovery Shopping Mall: Bali's largest mall in Kuta, right on the waterfront, offers a Western-style shopping experience with a mix of brands, a department store, cinema, and eateries.

10. Sukawati Art Market (Pasar Seni Sukawati): Known for its traditional arts and crafts, this market is excellent for batik cloth, traditional kites, and handmade bags.

Top Tips for Shopping in Bali

Cash is King: Many places do not accept credit cards, especially in markets and smaller stalls, so carry enough cash in local currency.

Quality Check: Examine the quality of the products thoroughly before buying. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the materials and origin.

Early Bird Advantage: Arriving early at markets not only avoids the crowds but may also get you a better deal as the first sale of the day is considered 'good luck' by local vendors.

Beware of Fakes: If you're looking for genuine designer goods, be cautious as there are many knock-offs.

Be Respectful: When haggling, always keep a smile on your face. It's a playful exchange, not a battle.

How To Haggle: Bargaining is an integral part of the shopping experience in the markets and street stalls of Bali. It's a cultural dance of sorts, and being good-natured and friendly is key.

Start by offering a price that is around half of the initial asking price and negotiate from there. Remember, the final price should be one that both you and the seller are happy with.

Shopping Safely: While Bali is relatively safe for shoppers, always be aware of your personal belongings in crowded marketplaces. It's advisable to leave your passport and valuable items in the safe at your hotel. Pickpocketing is rare, but like in any tourist spot, it's better to be cautious.

Bali Shopping Price Guide

Navigating the bustling markets and chic boutiques of Bali is an adventure in itself, but having an idea of what you might expect to pay for various items can help you budget your shopping spree effectively. To assist you in your retail exploration, here's a handy price guide featuring some of Bali's most sought-after purchases. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on the location, quality, and your bargaining skills, but this table should give you a ballpark figure to work with as you unearth the island's shopping delights.

*1 AUD is approximately 10,000 IDR (based on the conversion rate at time of publishing, which may vary)

This price guide should serve as a starting point for holidaymakers looking to enjoy Bali's diverse shopping scene. Whether you're haggling at a local market or browsing the fixed prices in a boutique, being aware of the general cost will enhance your shopping experience and ensure you get the best value for your purchases.

Whether you're a holidaymaker in search of the perfect souvenir or a fashionista looking for designer wear, Bali's array of retail options has something to delight everyone. Always leave room in your suitcase for unexpected treasures, and don't shy away from trying out your bargaining skills at the markets - it's all part of the thrill of shopping in Bali! Each location has its own unique charm and every purchase, carries with it a story that will become your own. So, on your next holiday to Bali, dive into its shopping culture and you'll find more than just items to buy — you'll experience the traditions and vibrant spirit of Bali.