Cool Things to Do in Bali: 7 Unique Communities to Join

Things to do in Bali.

Bali is often seen on social media for its beaches, postcard sunsets, surfing culture, wellness activities, temples, and cute brunch spots – but beyond the surface, there’s so much more to do, see, and experience. It’s also home to a vibrant network of communities that shape the island’s true rhythm. Togetherness is, after all, the heart of Indonesia, and in Bali alone I’ve come across such a unique mix of groups you can be part of, whether you’re just here on holiday or calling it home – here are some of them.

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Jumpa Lagi Club

This artsy bunch of genuinely lovely humans runs all sorts of workshops like canvas painting, cake decorating, flower arranging, and more. “Jumpa Lagi” means “see you again,” which feels fitting for a space that keeps bringing people with shared interests back together.

From just 100K a session, you get to tap into your creative side while they sort out all the tools (no stress, just show up and have fun). They also often collaborate with their chosen venues, so you can sneak in a cheeky food and drink deal while you’re at it – win-win!

Follow their Instagram @jumpalagiclub to check out their schedule.

Rumah Budaya Tamansari

Indonesia is incredibly rich in culture, and even within traditional dance alone, there’s so much to explore. Built on a deep love for this heritage and a desire to preserve it for younger generations, Rumah Budaya Tamansari was born (which translates to “Tamansari House of Culture”).

What started as a simple hobby of dancing together has grown into something much bigger. This group of traditional Indonesian dance enthusiasts now performs on major stages across Bali, Java, and beyond, while continuing to share their passion and keep the culture alive.

Follow their Instagram @rumahbudayatamansari to learn more and catch their next performances.

Be Vocal

This has to be one of the cutest groups I’ve come across. Exactly as I imagined when I heard it’s a singing group – it’s literally just a bunch of people meeting at a scheduled time… to… sing together, haha. And yes, it’s as wholesome as it sounds.

When I was there, they kicked things off with a fun singing game, then moved on to learning a traditional Indonesian song from Maluku, and wrapped it all up with the best part: open mic. So cute. If you’re looking to meet new friends, definitely give this one a go.

Follow their Instagram @bevocalindonesia to check out their event calendar.

Vinyl Book Club

Hands up, everyone! Literature and the art of properly listening to good music are not dead yet. I stumbled across this group on Instagram and immediately wanted in. They host sessions at Analogue Listening Space on Sunset Road, and the concept is beautifully simple: reading + listening to music.

You get access to their vinyl library, can bring your own book, or borrow from their collection. It’s the perfect activity for introverts or anyone looking to slow down after a busy week. I think the world needs more spaces like this.

Check them out on Instagram @vinylbookclub to learn more.

Continuum Athletics

This one’s for all you energised bunnies around Canggu. Three times a week, they get together for different types of training. Tuesdays are for interval trainings, Thursdays are threshold sessions, and Sundays are for long, easy runs. Don’t be intimidated if you spot some seriously athletic-looking people there – everyone who wants to get fitter and challenge themselves is welcome. It’s a friendly bunch who genuinely support each other.

Follow their Instagram @continuum.athletics for the weekly schedule and meet-up points.

Film Photography Club

In a world that’s constantly pushing us towards the next new technology, there are still people who appreciate the slow, intentional art of analogue photography – and I love that. This club hosts “photowalks” where you meet fellow film photography enthusiasts at a set time and place, then wander, shoot, connect, and enjoy the quiet thrill of not knowing how your photos turn out until later.

Each season is limited to just 20 participants, which keeps things nice and intimate. Whether you’re a seasoned film shooter or just curious to try something new, it’s such a refreshing way to spend a day.

Check out their next photowalk on Instagram @filmphotographyclub.

Exit Haven

This is a whole new level of nerdiness that I 100% want to be part of and I want to be friends with everyone in this group. They literally just meet up… to play board games, haha!

No screens, just proper games, a bit of friendly competition, and (I’m assuming) some very serious rule debates. It actually sounds like such a fun, low-pressure way to hang out and meet new people.

Follow their Instagram @exithaven_ to see when their next hang is.

Soooo…next time you’re in Bali and want to skip one beach day, try joining a community instead. You might leave with new friends, new hobbies, new experiences, and a whole different side of the island you didn’t expect. Thank you for reading!