Ubud · Indonesia · This or that
Ubud instead of the Maldives for a family
Ubud in Bali gives a family a private-pool villa, rice terraces, temples and waterfalls at a fraction of the price of a Maldives resort. The Maldives wins for overwater villas and reef snorkelling, but Ubud offers more to do outside the room and costs far less on the ground. Both need a long flight, so the saving comes from the stay itself.
How they compare
- 1
A private-pool villa in Ubud
In Ubud, a private villa with its own pool costs a fraction of what a similar room costs at a Maldives resort. Expect a walled garden, an open-air living area, a daily breakfast and a pool that children can use at any hour. Choose a villa within a short drive of the centre, ask whether the pool has a shallow end, and check whether the staff can help with a driver. Rates rise in July, August and December, so book ahead.
- 2
The same dream, at a fraction of the price
The comparison works because the Maldives is a resort experience, where the island does everything for you at a high price. Ubud trades overwater bungalows and reefs for greenery, culture and variety. You can eat at local warungs, hire a driver for the day and swim in your own pool, all at lower prices. What you give up is the lagoon and the coral. If a beach matters, add a few days on the Bali coast.
- 3
Tegalalang rice terraces
The Tegalalang terraces, north of Ubud, are green steps cut into a valley, and they are the best-known rice terraces on the island. Arrive early, before the tour buses and the heat, and walk the paths between the paddies. Photo swings and viewpoint cafes charge fees, and stalls at the top sell souvenirs. The steps are uneven and can be slippery after rain, so wear shoes with grip. It takes about an hour and a half to enjoy.
- 4
Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul in Tampaksiring is a Hindu water temple with springs that feed purification pools. Visitors can join the ritual, stepping into the pools to pour water over their heads, as the Balinese do. A sarong and sash are required, and the temple lends them, so dress modestly. Children can watch or join if they are comfortable in cool water. Go early in the morning, since the queue builds, and respect the worshippers by keeping photos discreet.
- 5
Sacred Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a patch of jungle and temple in central Ubud that is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques. The paths are shaded and children enjoy watching the monkeys, but the animals are bold and quick. Do not carry food, bottles, loose sunglasses or phones in your hand, never stare at or touch a monkey, and keep small children close. Staff are on hand to help if one grabs something. It takes about an hour.
- 6
Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is south of Ubud, a short drive away, and it falls into a green pool where you can swim. A long staircase leads down to the viewing area, and the climb back up is hard in the heat, so allow time and carry water. The current near the base can be strong after rain, so keep children close and swim only in calm areas. Go in the morning to avoid the crowds that come later in the day.
- 7
Ubud rice paddies on your doorstep
Some of the nicest moments of an Ubud stay need no ticket. Walk the Campuhan Ridge Walk, a short, easy ridge path from the edge of town through grassland and fields, or follow village lanes between paddies near your villa. Early morning is cool and quiet, with farmers working and ducks in the water. Wear sun cover in the day and carry water. Many villas can suggest a short path from the gate.
Plan it
- Best time
- April to October for the dry season, with sunny days and cooler nights. November to March is wetter and greener, with fewer visitors.
- How long
- Five to seven nights in Ubud covers the main sights. Add a few days on the coast if beaches matter.
- Getting around
- Hire a driver by the day, which families find far easier than scooters or taxis. From the airport, Ubud takes around an hour and a half by car, depending on traffic.
Good to know
- Wear a swimsuit under your clothes for Tirta Empul, and pack a quick-dry towel.
- Carry small notes for temple donations, parking and small stalls.
- Do the busy sights in the morning and leave the afternoon for the villa pool.
Frequently asked
Is Ubud good for families? +
Yes. Villas with pools, short drives between sights, easy food and friendly staff make it a comfortable base for children. Pavements are narrow and traffic is heavy, so a driver helps.
Is Ubud cheaper than the Maldives? +
Yes, by a very wide margin. A private-pool villa in Ubud costs a fraction of a Maldives resort room, and food and transport are cheaper too. Flights to both are long.
Are the monkeys in Ubud safe for children? +
They are wild and can bite or grab. Keep children close, carry no food or loose items, and do not touch or stare at the monkeys. Staff in the forest can help if there is a problem.
How many days do you need in Ubud? +
Four to six days covers the terraces, a temple, the monkey forest and a waterfall at a relaxed pace. Longer stays allow time for villa days, cooking classes and spa afternoons.
