I’ve had the pleasure of capturing engagement sessions and weddings all over Bali in the past five years. I’m always looking for unique and the best Bali prewedding or engagement locations that reflect the couple I’m photographing to make the photos look authentic to them. Here are the best Bali prewedding or engagement locations that I continuously refer to my clients and keep me coming back year after year.
Also, don’t be surprise if some of the locations require some fees, it is normal in Bali to charge extra entrance fees if you are doing a photoshoot for prewedding. To avoid confusion, I will explain the regular fee and the prewedding entrance fees ticket below.
All photos below are taken by Bali wedding photographer, Gusmank Wedding Photography.
1. The Iconic Balinese Water Temple, Beratan Lake
The first location on my list of best Bali prewedding and engagement locations is Beratan Lake, situated in Bali’s picturesque mountainous region of Bedugul. What sets this location apart from others in Bali is the stunning floating temple, known as Ulun Danu Temple. This iconic temple stands tall with its intricate shrine tower, featuring ceilings with 11, seven, and three levels, creating a truly breathtaking scene.
Best Time To Shoot:
The ideal time to shoot at Beratan Lake and Temple is at sunrise, starting around 6 am. This early timing is perfect for capturing the serene beauty of the location. However, be prepared for an early start, as you’ll need to depart from Denpasar by 4 am. If you’re hiring a makeup artist, the session will typically start two hours before that! So, this is definitely for early risers who are ready to embrace the morning light.
What to Wear:
Wear your most beautiful dress! Any color will work perfectly here, so feel free to choose what makes you feel best.
Entrance Fees:
To capture dramatic photos from the lake, I recommend hiring a canoe. The photoshoot entrance fee is IDR 1,000,000, and the boat rental costs IDR 150,000, which should be paid directly to the local canoe owner.
2. The Classic Favourites, Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Tegalalang Rice Terraces, located in the heart of Ubud, is one of the most iconic and sought-after photo locations in Bali. You’ve likely seen its stunning landscapes featured on countless Instagram feeds and throughout my blog. Unlike many tourist-heavy spots around the world, Tegalalang retains its natural charm, making it a perfect backdrop for prewedding and engagement sessions. With its lush green rice fields and magical morning sunlight, it truly captures the essence of Bali in a single frame.
Best Time to Shoot
The ideal time to shoot at Tegalalang Rice Terraces is early in the morning, just after sunrise. Yes, it means waking up early—but trust me, it’s worth it! The soft morning light creates a magical glow, and you’ll avoid the crowds and midday heat. Many of my clients thank me later for recommending this time.
What to Wear
Long, flowy dresses in bright or pastel colors look stunning against the lush green backdrop of the rice terraces. Avoid wearing heels, as the narrow and sometimes muddy steps can be slippery and unsafe.
Entrance Fees
The official ticket booth usually opens at 8 AM, so if we shoot before that, there’s typically no entrance fee. However, some local farmers might request a small donation if we use their fields for the session. It’s a good idea to carry some small cash, around 10,000–50,000 IDR (1–3 USD), as a kind gesture.
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3. The Tallest Waterfall in Bali, Nungnung Waterfall
If you’re considering this location, be prepared for a bit of a workout—reaching the base of the waterfall requires going down (and back up!) hundreds of steep steps. But the effort is absolutely worth it.
Named one of the tallest waterfalls in Bali, Nungnung Waterfall offers a breathtaking prewedding setting. The true highlight here is the raw power of the waterfall itself, which creates a dramatic, cinematic effect for your photos—perfect for couples who want something bold and unforgettable.
Best Time to Shoot:
I usually schedule Nungnung Waterfall as the second location of the day, following a morning session in the Kintamani area. This timing allows for softer lighting and a more comfortable experience after the initial shoot.
What to Wear:
Because the location requires hiking down and up many stairs, I recommend wearing something lightweight and easy to move in. If possible, bring a change of clothes to put on once you reach the waterfall.
Entrance Fees:
The regular entrance fee is IDR 10,000 (around $0.70 USD). If you’re doing a prewedding photo session, the official fee is IDR 250,000 (approximately $18 USD).
4. For the Adventurous Couples: Batur Volcano
There are few places in Bali that offer the kind of natural beauty, serenity, and raw landscapes like Mount Batur. I’ve chosen this location as one of the best Bali prewedding or engagement spots because of its dramatic scenery — surrounded by striking black volcanic rocks and sands from past eruptions.
But don’t worry — shooting here doesn’t require you to hike the mountain. Our photo session takes place around the volcano’s scenic surroundings, where we can still capture its incredible textures and views without the climb.
Best Time To Shoot:
For the most stunning lighting, aim to be here at sunrise. Sunset is not recommended as the lighting is not as ideal.
What to Wear:
Light or white wedding gowns are the perfect choice here. They contrast beautifully with the dark colors of the lava, creating a striking effect in your photos.
Entrance Fees:
Local authorities or the banjar may request an entrance fee of IDR 250,000 (approximately 18 USD) for a prewedding shoot. Be sure to ask for an official receipt when making the payment.
5. The Black Sandy Beach: Mengening Beach, Canggu
Located in Canggu Village, Mengening Beach is a black sand beauty that offers a stunning cliff-top sunset. Its dramatic scenery and unique black sand, which reflects light beautifully, make it an excellent choice for a Bali prewedding session. The beach is also relatively quiet and not overly touristy, which makes it a perfect location for couples seeking a more private and serene setting.
Best Time To Shoot:
Mengening Beach is most beautiful during sunset. The weather can change rapidly here, so always check the wave conditions beforehand. Be cautious of occasionally unpredictable waves, especially if your shoot is near the water. The wind can be strong, but it adds a beautiful movement to the photos, making it worth the effort.
What to Wear:
Choose one of your favorite outfits and enjoy the feeling of the cool sand beneath your feet. Light, flowy dresses or outfits that move with the breeze work especially well here.
Entrance Fees:
The photoshoot entrance fee is IDR 350,000.
6. The Dramatic View of Balinese Mountain Ranges: Pinggan Village
Located not far from Mount Batur, Pinggan Village is a hidden gem for prewedding or engagement photos. Situated in the northern part of Kintamani, northwest of Mount Batur, the village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. The pine trees and mountain backdrop create a stunning landscape that makes Pinggan Village a top destination for photographers. The sunrise from the village’s hill provides an incredible view, which is why this location is a favorite for photographers searching for the perfect shot.
Best Time To Shoot:
As the name suggests, Pinggan Village is famous for its spectacular sunrise views, making it the best time for a shoot. Early morning light here is perfect for creating dramatic and beautiful photos.
What to Wear:
Choose one of your favorite outfits, as we will park right in front of the photo spot for easy access.
Entrance Fees:
The landowner charges a fee of IDR 250,000 (approximately 18 USD) to do a photoshoot at this location.
7. Our Most Favourite Waterfall: Blangsinga Waterfall
Blangsinga or Tegenungan Waterfall is one of my favorite waterfalls for photoshoots in Bali. While it’s referred to by two names depending on the access point, I prefer entering through Blangsinga Waterfall, as it offers a slightly easier descent. This location also provides a clean restroom, making it convenient for outfit changes. The waterfall is only a short walk from the entrance, and you’ll be surrounded by a lush green valley with the stunning waterfall as the focal point.”
Best Time To Shoot:
The best time to shoot here is in the morning, ideally between 8 am and 9 am. This allows for beautiful lighting and helps avoid the crowds of Instagram waterfall chasers that tend to show up later.
What to Wear:
Avoid wearing heels, as there are some stairs to navigate to reach the waterfall. Comfortable footwear is recommended for ease of movement.
Entrance Fees:
The management charges IDR 300,000 (approximately 18 USD) for a photoshoot entrance, which includes a drink. The regular entry fee without a photoshoot is IDR 15,000 per person (1 USD).
8. White Sands and Lush Cliffside – Melasti Beach
Melasti Beach Ungasan is one of Bali’s top locations for photography. Once a hidden gem, it has become increasingly popular after the government built a direct road allowing car access right to the beach—no more climbing down countless stairs!
While Melasti Beach shares a similar look to its neighbor, Pandawa Beach, I prefer shooting here. Pandawa has become overly crowded with water sports, beachside cafés, and stalls, which can be distracting during a photoshoot.
What makes Melasti Beach truly special is its stunning natural features: dramatic sky-high limestone cliffs, the striking contrast of dark candi bentar (traditional Balinese gate) against the soft white sand, and of course, the breathtaking sunset views. The combination of turquoise waters, lush cliffs, and clean sands makes this beach a perfect setting for fine art prewedding or engagement photography.
Best Time To Shoot:
Melasti Beach can get crowded, especially on weekends, so I recommend planning your photoshoot during the week or at sunrise for a quieter experience. However, I personally love shooting here at sunset to capture that magical golden light.
What to Wear:
Since the beach is easily accessible, you can wear any outfit you like. There’s also a convenient changing area, making it easy to switch between multiple dresses during your session.
Entrance Fees:
The management charges IDR 500,000 (around 35 USD) for a photoshoot session. While the fee may seem a bit high, it includes access to clean facilities, a well-maintained beach, and overall great service—making it one of the most convenient and worthwhile prewedding spots in Bali.
9. Play with Monkeys in The Jungle, Sangeh Monkey Forest
When you hear “Monkey Forest,” you probably think of the one in Ubud. But there’s another beautiful and less-crowded option located in Badung Regency, near Canggu — the Sangeh Monkey Forest. Just like its Ubud counterpart, this forest is home to a large group of long-tailed grey macaques. With a population of around 700 monkeys, the forest offers a unique and playful atmosphere — the monkeys here are generally tame and friendly, making it a fun and lively location for a photoshoot.
Best Time To Shoot:
One of the best things about shooting in the forest is that you don’t have to worry too much about harsh sunlight — the trees provide plenty of shade. I usually schedule shoots here around 3 PM before heading to Canggu Beach, or sometimes midday after a session in Ubud.
What to Wear:
Soft or muted colors work beautifully here, blending naturally with the forest backdrop.
Entrance Fees:
The management charges 500,000 IDR (approximately 35 USD) for photoshoot access.
10. Remote Island Paradise with Crystal Clear Water, Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan Island
Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan Islands are two small gems located just off the southeast coast of Bali. These island paradises offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of South Bali and have quickly become one of the island’s must-visit destinations. Surrounded by stunning sunsets, vibrant coral reefs, and soft white sand beaches, the water here is crystal clear — a vivid, tropical aqua blue that’s perfect for breathtaking photos.
Best Time To Shoot:
Sunrise or sunset both offer stunning lighting for photos on the islands. However, due to limited boat schedules, it’s highly recommended to stay overnight if you want to capture those golden-hour moments.
What to Wear:
Both formal wedding gowns and casual outfits work beautifully here. Feel free to bring multiple wardrobe options—most hotels are conveniently located near the photo spots.
Entrance Fees:
There’s no entrance fee for photoshoots. However, the return boat ride to the island costs around 300,000 IDR (USD 20) per person.
11. Hidden Waterfall with Breathtaking Ray of Lights, Tukad Cepung Waterfall
I discovered this hidden gem back in 2016 through one of my clients. At that time, it was still relatively unknown and rarely visited. Located just a short drive from Kintamani, Tukad Cepung Waterfall offers a rare and magical view that should not be missed. While Bali is home to many waterfalls perfect for photoshoots, Tukad Cepung stands out as one of the most unique. Still considered a ‘virgin’ waterfall, it has captivated everyone who’s had the chance to see it. Tucked away between towering cliffs, the waterfall is a bit challenging to find—especially for first-time visitors—but the journey down a few hundred steps is absolutely worth it once you reach this stunning hidden spot.
Best Time To Shoot:
This location is usually my second stop after a session in Ubud or Kintamani. The best time to shoot here is around 10–11 AM when the lighting beautifully filters through the cliffs and into the waterfall.
What to Wear:
Wear flip-flops and a medium-length dress or shorts (for men), as the cave floor can sometimes be flooded. Comfort and flexibility are key here.
Entrance Fees:
The fee for a photoshoot session is IDR 350,000 per couple.
12. Quiet Beach with Dozens Luxury Resorts, Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua Beach is not only famous for being home to Bali’s most luxurious five-star resorts, but it’s also a stunning location for engagement or honeymoon photography. What sets Nusa Dua apart is its peaceful ambiance, clean surroundings, and pristine white sand beach lined with swaying palm trees.
Picture this: soft white sand under your feet, a gentle sea breeze brushing your face, and cool ocean water as you walk along the shoreline. It’s quiet, private, and effortlessly romantic—truly one of the best bali prewedding or engagement locations.
Best Time To Shoot:
Both sunrise and sunset offer a romantic ambiance, perfect for capturing intimate moments on this picturesque beach.
What to Wear:
A long, formal dress will look stunning in the luxurious setting of Nusa Dua Beach, adding to the elegance of your photoshoot.
Entrance Fees:
There are no entrance fees for the beach itself. However, I recommend staying at one of the resorts with direct beach access, such as The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua Hotel & Spa, Meliá Bali, St. Regis, The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, or Grand Hyatt Bali, for ultimate convenience and luxury.
13. Misty Morning Lush Greenery Fields, Campuhan Ridge Ubud
Campuhan Ridge Walk is a free and easy nature trek, beloved by repeat visitors to Ubud. Located in the heart of Bali’s central highlands, this walk offers a serene escape from the bustling southern parts of the island. It’s the perfect way to experience a more untouched, natural side of Bali, away from the busy boutique shops, guesthouses, and restaurants that line Jalan Raya Ubud.
The walk itself offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy fresh, cool air while taking in one of the most breathtaking hillside vistas in the region. It’s an ideal location for couples looking to escape the crowds and capture stunning natural beauty for their photoshoot.
Best Time To Shoot:
The early morning or late afternoon are the best times for soft lighting and to avoid the heat of midday. The golden light during sunrise and sunset enhances the magical beauty of this nature walk.
What to Wear:
Comfortable and light clothing works best for this outdoor trek. If you’re looking to take full advantage of the scenic backdrop, I recommend flowy dresses or casual outfits that will flow with the breeze.
Entrance Fees:
There are no entrance fees for the Campuhan Ridge Walk, making it a great free option for a photoshoot while still offering stunning landscapes for your pictures.
14. Floating Temple Near The Volcano, Batur Lake
If you’re looking for another peaceful, nature-filled photography location, consider visiting Lake Batur after your photoshoot at Mount Batur. Located in the same area, Lake Batur offers an incredible backdrop with its pristine waters, hills, and the iconic Batur Temples. This vast lake, situated in the foothills of Mount Batur and Mount Abang, is the largest in Bali.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by expansive views of the lake, which stretches over 16 kilometers in length and reaches a depth of around 65 meters. Formed by the eruption of Mount Batur thousands of years ago, this stunning lake offers a tranquil setting perfect for capturing serene and natural photos.
Best Time To Shoot:
To capture the calm beauty of the lake, early morning or late afternoon are ideal for soft, golden lighting. The mist and early morning tranquility add a magical touch to your photoshoot.
What to Wear:
Since this location is near the water and surrounded by natural beauty, casual, comfortable attire is recommended. Soft, light colors will stand out against the green hills and blue waters.
Entrance Fees:
The photoshoot permit fees is IDR 300,000
15. Authentic Balinese Landmarks in The Town of Eat, Pray, Love, Ubud Temples
Another best Bali prewedding or engagement locations in Ubud area. There’s probably more Balinese temples than homes on the island. Many Balinese temples in Ubud and all around Bali are actually shrines. However, the number of religious compounds might well be over 10,000. The number is spread throughout the far-flung corners of the island, from mountain and hilltops to low-lying coastal areas.
Some Balinese temples are located and easily accessible as among Ubud’s central landmarks, while others around the neighboring villages of Tegalalang and Tampaksiring are hidden within mountain valleys, adding a bit of mystery to your adventures in this cultural heartland of Bali. Some of the Balinese Temples in Ubud that best for Bali prewedding locations are Pura Samuhan Tiga, Pura Tirtha Empul, Pura Dalam Puri Ubud, Pura Dalam Tegalalantang, Pura Taman Saraswati, and Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu.
Best Time To Shoot:
Anytime, I usually visit here after the session at Tegallalang Rice Terraces.
What to Wear:
If you don’t plan to enter the temple, any formal outfit would be great. However, if you plan to go inside, wearing a sarong (a traditional Balinese fabric) is required.
Entrance Fees:
The entrance fee to visit the inside of the temple is around 20,000 IDR (1.5 USD) per person, and sarong rental is included.
16. Spectacular Sunset at Bali’s Dramatic Cliff View, Balangan Beach
As one of the most accessible beaches in the Bukit area, Balangan Beach is popular as a photo shooting spot. The stunning ocean vista provided by its cliff-top position is a picture-perfect location, especially during the sunset when the sky glows red. During the high tide, surfers swarm the ocean below in their efforts to catch legendary waves. It is poetic and translucent, offering a different experience from other beaches.
At Balangan Beach, you can not only do the photoshoot on the beach itself, but there’s also access from the parking lot where you can stand on the stunning cliff looking over to the Indian Ocean. Some couples also hold Bali adventure elopements here. So many reasons to consider it one of the best Bali prewedding or engagement locations.
Best Time To Shoot:
Of course, the sunset!
What to Wear:
Any sort of outfit is great here. You can bring multiple clothes as they have a changing room.
Entrance Fees:
The management charges 500,000 IDR (35 USD) for photoshoot entrance.
17. Discover the Untouched Authentic Balinese Remote Island, Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is becoming one of the most popular locations for photoshoots in Bali. This island offers clear waters, pristine white sand beaches, and stunning natural rugged beauty. The island also boasts an amazing underwater life with colorful corals. Nusa Penida is home to many incredible photo spots, such as the famous T-Rex cliff at Kelingking Beach, Diamond Beach, and Broken Beach. Keep in mind that the photo spots are quite spread out, unlike Lembongan, so make sure to allocate enough time if you want to explore the entire island. Due to its unique panoramic views, Nusa Penida is one of the best Bali prewedding or engagement locations.
Best Time To Shoot:
You can choose sunrise or sunset, but please note that boat timings are limited. To catch the perfect sunrise or sunset, it’s best to stay on the island for one night.
What to Wear:
A casual look is preferred here, as many of the spots require a 10-15 minute walk, sometimes involving stairs.
Entrance Fees:
There is no entrance fee for photoshoots. The return boat ride from Bali to Nusa Penida is 300,000 IDR (USD 20) per person.
18. Mountain Lakes with Rolling Mist, Tamblingan Lake
Another stunning best Bali prewedding or engagement locations in the Bedugul area is Tamblingan Lake. Situated in a serene plateau surrounded by lush green hills, this lake is part of the famous Bali Twin Lakes, alongside Buyan Lake. The cool weather and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect backdrop for capturing breathtaking moments.
The picturesque setting of Tamblingan Lake is complemented by traditional canoes docked along the shore. These canoes, available for rent, make for unique and beautiful props for your photoshoot, adding a traditional Balinese touch to your pictures.
The journey to Tamblingan Lake takes you through a rain forest with towering trees, creating a stunning, natural pathway for photos. This location is ideal for couples seeking a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path photoshoot. With its rural charm and serene beauty, it provides a peaceful alternative to more popular spots like Ubud, making it one of the most captivating places we’ve found for a photography session in the Bedugul region.
Best Time To Shoot:
The best time to shoot in Tamblingan Lake is before sunrise when the lake is still covered by a fresh, cold atmosphere. Arrive as early as 6 am to witness the fog slowly dissipate as the sun rises.
What to Wear:
Any type of outfit works great here.
Entrance Fees:
1,000,000 IDR (70 USD) to rent two traditional canoes, one for the photographer and one for the client. A local woman will paddle the canoe and guide you to the middle of the lake. She is highly skilled and professional, so you can relax and enjoy the experience.
19. Seaside Town with A Beautiful Sunrise, Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach is a stunning white sand beach on the east coast of Denpasar and has long been one of Bali’s most beloved destinations. Known as the “Morning of the World,” Sanur is famous for its tranquil sunrise views—making it a perfect spot for a romantic and peaceful photoshoot.
The soft morning light, calm waters, and scenic wave breakers create a dreamy setting for your best bali prewedding or engagement locations. As an added bonus for early risers, you’ll often see traditional fishing boats known as jukung dotting the shore, local fishermen starting their day, and even a glimpse of the majestic Mount Agung in the background—all of which offer a rich variety of storytelling elements for your photos.
Best Time To Shoot:
Sanur is ideal at sunrise for soft golden lighting and fewer crowds, though it’s also lovely at sunset.
What to Wear:
The beach is easily accessible, so any style of wardrobe works well—from formal dresses to casual beachwear.
Entrance Fees:
No entrance fees required.
20. Romancing in Bali’s Quiet Waterfall, Tibumana Waterfall
Tibumana Waterfall is a hidden gem tucked away in the jungle just upstream from the more popular Reng Reng Falls. While it’s becoming more popular among visitors, Tibumana Waterfall still retains a tranquil atmosphere—making it a great choice for a peaceful and intimate photoshoot.
The short walk to the falls—about 5 to 10 minutes—takes you through lush jungle paths that are already incredibly photogenic. From the jungle-lined entrance to the cascading waterfall itself, every corner of Tibumana is picture-perfect. Its tranquil and secluded setting makes it a favorite for Bali elopement and proposal sessions. In fact, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing several beautiful moments for couples right here.
Best Time To Shoot:
This location is flexible with lighting, so you can shoot here almost anytime during the day for your best bali prewedding or engagement locations.
What to Wear:
The waterfall is easy to access, so you can wear any outfit you like—formal attire, casual wear, or something flowy for a more ethereal look all work beautifully here.
Entrance Fees:
Photoshoot entrance: 250,000 IDR (18 USD)
Regular entrance: 20,000 IDR (1.5 USD)
21. For Big Trees Lovers, Bedugul Botanic Garden
Located in Bedugul Village, 1,240 meters above sea level, Bali Botanical Garden offers one of the most peaceful and scenic settings for a photography session in Bali. Just a 90-minute drive from Denpasar, this lush garden is easily accessible with well-paved roads leading through the highlands of Tabanan.
What makes this place so special for photography is its diverse landscape — towering rainforest trees, manicured lawns, and misty forest paths that create a dreamy and cinematic atmosphere. The soft highland light and cool temperature make it perfect for relaxed and intimate couple shoots, preweddings, or even family portraits. With fewer crowds and endless natural backdrops, the Botanical Garden is a hidden gem for anyone looking to capture Bali’s serene side away from the beaches.
Best Time To Shoot:
Around 8–9 AM is ideal to capture the soft morning light and enjoy the peaceful garden atmosphere before it gets busier.
What to Wear:
A wedding dress or any elegant gown looks stunning here, especially among the towering trees and lush greenery.
Entrance Fees:
Photoshoot entrance fee is 500,000 IDR (approx. 37 USD), plus 50,000 IDR (approx. 3.4 USD) per person for the regular entry.
Those are the 21 best Bali prewedding or engagement locations, hope it would help you decide your prewedding locations in Bali! Check my pricing and packages if you need a photographer in Bali!
