Bali is an island rather than a city, but for many people it has become a place to live, work and look for connection. Canggu, on the southwest coast, is the hub for surfers, digital nomads and wellness-focused newcomers, with rice fields, beaches and co-working spaces side by side. Ubud, inland among the forests and terraced paddies, is known for yoga, meditation, healing arts and a spiritual, creative community. Social life in both places often starts at a yoga class, a surf break or a community event.
Bali has its own culture distinct from most of Indonesia: the majority of Balinese are Hindu, and daily offerings, temple ceremonies and festivals are part of everyday life. On Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, the whole island shuts down, including the airport. Respect local customs: cover shoulders and knees at temples and wear a sarong when required. Bahasa Indonesia is the national language, and a few words of it, or of Balinese, are appreciated.
Because many people are here for months rather than years, relationships can feel fleeting. Souldaters helps you find people who share your values and intentions: it is free, and nobody can message you until you both like each other. Join tribes such as yoga, digital nomads or spiritual, and use Friends mode to find surf or hiking partners.
Indonesia's revised criminal code, in force from 2026, includes provisions on sex and cohabitation outside marriage that can apply to visitors, although prosecution requires a complaint from a close family member. Same-sex relationships are not criminalized in Bali, but public attitudes are conservative, so LGBTQ+ travelers may prefer discretion outside tourist areas.
Tribes to join in Bali
Tribes work everywhere. Join a few and filter Discover to people nearby who share them.
First date ideas in Bali
- Walk the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud at sunrise or late afternoon.
- Explore the Tegallalang rice terraces north of Ubud.
- Watch the sunset and the kecak fire dance at Uluwatu Temple on the southern cliffs.
- Visit Tanah Lot, the sea temple on a rock, at sunset.
- Hike Mount Batur before dawn to watch the sunrise over the caldera lake, with a local guide.
- Take a surf lesson together on the beginner-friendly waves near Canggu.
How to make friends in Bali
- Join a yoga or meditation class in Ubud or Canggu and return regularly.
- Take part in a beach clean-up, a common community activity in Canggu.
- Join a surf group or a morning run along the beach.
- Attend community gatherings, workshops or ecstatic dance events popular with the wellness crowd.
More ideas: how to make friends in a new city.
The vegan & plant-based scene in Bali
Bali, especially Ubud and Canggu, is one of the most vegan-friendly places in Asia, with countless plant-based cafes, raw food spots and smoothie bowls. Traditional Indonesian dishes like tempeh and gado-gado are also easy to find in vegan form.
Meet plant-based people in Bali through the Vegan and Vegetarian tribes, and switch on the free "Only show vegans" filter.
Dating in Bali: FAQ
Is there a free dating site in Bali?
Yes. Souldaters is completely free in Bali, with no premium tier. You can like, match, see who liked you and chat at no cost. Messaging only opens after a mutual like, so you avoid unwanted messages and focus on people who share your intentions.
Where can I meet vegan singles in Bali?
Ubud and Canggu are full of vegan cafes, yoga studios and wellness events where plant-based people gather. On Souldaters, join the vegan, yoga or spiritual tribe and use the "only vegans" filter to find like-minded singles on the island. You can also post in the tribe discussion to suggest a group meal or a market visit.
How do I make friends in Bali?
Join yoga classes, surf groups, beach clean-ups or community workshops in Ubud and Canggu. Many residents are newcomers, so people are open to new friends. Souldaters Friends mode lets you match with others who want platonic connection, whether locals or long-stay visitors. Friend matches work like dating matches: both people wave first, then chat opens.