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July 18, 2025 5 min read

Bali has long held a magnetic pull for travellers seeking surf, spirituality, and that enviable slow-living rhythm. But behind the Instagram clichés and packed beach clubs lies a very different island—one rich in ritual, community, and quiet corners that most visitors never find.

We caught up with Second Summer’s Co-Founder Jodi, following her family venture to reset and explore Bali on a deeper level than the usual tourist attractions. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking to rediscover the island with fresh eyes, Jodi shares her itinerary of what Bali really is—and uncovers places you don’t want to miss.

What originally drew you to Bali—and what did you want to achieve from this experience with the family?

We love to travel to places we see as an adventure; somewhere that offers variety and culture. Bali was somewhere I travelled too in my backpacking days, but it has come a long way since then and have always wanted to revisit! You get the best of both worlds here; the beaches and the jungle. The island is soulful; the sunsets are breath-taking and you feel part of something timeless. The locals are warm, welcoming and deeply rooted in their vibrant cultural traditions.

 

Where do you go in Bali to escape the crowds? Everyone flocks to Seminyak and Canggu—what are your go-to spots for something a little more under the radar? 

Uluwatu was our hotspot for the first part of the trip... This is where you will find the best beaches, stunning sunsets, luxury resorts and the famous Kecak fire dance performance. We stayed in an area called Bingin which has a laid-back vibe, stunning cliffside views, hidden beaches, bohemian cafes and relaxed atmosphere. Its the perfect location for a quieter, more authentic Bali Experience. Canguu is now the new Seminyak – its hustling and bustling with co-workers, people travelling and is the place to be if you want to party! North of Canguu around 20 minutes by car is Seseh, a quiet coastal village that offers a peaceful escape from the islands busier tourist spots. Surrounded by rice fields and black-sand beaches it has a more traditional, local feel with independent shops, cafes and restaurants. We came here for a 1 night stay cay and really loved the area!

 

If someone only had 72 hours in Bali, how would you design their itinerary? 

I would say... head straight to the Jungle for culture and temples. Spend the day in Ubud at the Monkey Forest, the Ubud Swing at Tis Cafe, a swim at Uma Anyar Waterfall followed by Dinner at Merlin’s Magic. A highly recommended extra would be to visit Koli Koli Eco Day Club!

Day 2 – Head to Canguu for breakfast at Penny Lane followed by lunch and markets at La Brisa Bali. Then head North to Seseh for sunset drinks on Pantai beach and dinner and an overnight stay at Dune Seseh.

Day 3 – Head south to Uluwatu for a coastal escape. Brunch at Jimmys Cafe or Ours, a reformer Pilates class at Fondue, lunch at Milk and Madu (great for kids) or Bukit Cafe. Beach time at Padang Padang beach followed by sunset dinner at Single Fin.

 

 

Describe the hotels/accommodation that you recommend…

We booked our villa in Uluwatu with The Young Villa’s and Ohhhhh my word.... it was INCREDIBLE! By far the best villa I have ever stayed in. They have multiple villa’s all around Bali and all have the same real life Pinterest board vibe. You can book with them direct @theyoungvillas or via Air BnB.

We stayed at Dune Seseh on our staycation to the area and we wish we had stayed here longer – we booked this via their link in their Instagram bio @dunebali This is quite a new boutique hotel with 12 feng-shui inspired rooms and is a tranquil retreat, another incredibly beautiful hotel.

Was it easy to get around with the family? 

It was surprisingly easier than I thought, our villa arranged a drive to collect us from the airport who was available throughout our stay to take us anywhere we needed. We also had the Grab App which was amazing for booking taxis, groceries, food etc. The roads are very busy though, so best to set off early if heading somewhere far!

 

Which neighbourhoods or areas feel the most “you”? In terms of vibe, community, energy?

We loved Bingin in Uluwatu where we stayed, I think the location of the villa helped with that as it was a minute walk to cafe’s, markets, restaurants, pilates classes etc and it was a very laid back vibe and not too busy.

 

What are three truly local experiences you always recommend to friends visiting for the first time? Things that don’t make the guidebooks but stay with you long after the trip.

If you get chance to visit one of the Gili Islands.... I would recommend getting a boat to visit for a day and night. Swimming with the Dolphins at sunrise in Lovina would be next on my list to do but you would need to stay at the North of the island otherwise its around a 3 hour car journey each way from Uluwatu. Bali Safari – This has to be one of the best days we had. We fed the giraffes and elephants and saw animals from all over the world. An amazing day for all the family!

 

Can you share a restaurant, a boutique hotel, and a wellness spot that deserve way more attention than they get? Your hidden gems…

Dune Seseh – A hidden gem in an up-and-coming area. Gorgeous boutique hotel and restaurant.

Le Cliff Bali (@lecliffbali) at Dreamseasurf – Tucked between the cliffs and a lot of steps but its worth it to visit this hidden beach and the cocktails are fab!

If you are into Pilates, I had the best classes with Isabella at Fondue in Uluwatu La Brisa Sunday Market in Canguu – Music, Drinks, Shops – a total vibe!

 

What does a perfect day in Bali look like for you—from morning coffee to sunset cocktails?

An early start to walk to reformer Pilates class at 7.30am, followed by grabbing takeaway coffee. Shower, get ready and out for brunch... head to a few shops on the way to Sunday’s Beach Club for an afternoon on the beach staying right through to sunset toasting marshmallows on the beach after dark!

 

Any packing tips for Bali life and family? Bali essentials V’s what you don’t need.

Pack light and leave the heels at home! Bali is very much bikinis and sarongs, easy to wear and effortlessly cool. Don’t forget you gym kit if you are there for the yoga and Pilates!

See Jodi's packing list HERE

Follow Jodi on Instagram @joddiiiiiii