bali is heaven for massages

Bali is world-famous for its massages and spa treatments, and visiting one is a highlight of any trip. Prices range from as little as $5 to luxury experiences costing up to $200 — but some treatments are truly unique to Bali and Indonesia, and worth seeking out.

The indulgence of creambath

If you want something special, try a creambath, a treatment that exists only in Indonesia. It’s not a bath at all, but a deeply nourishing ritual for your hair and scalp.

First, your hair is washed while your scalp is massaged. Then a fresh mixture of coconut, avocado, or cream is applied to your hair. While the treatment soaks in, you’ll enjoy a long massage of the scalp, neck, upper back, and arms.

It’s pure bliss — relaxing, rejuvenating, and guaranteed to leave you smiling. For the best experience, look for spas that use natural ingredients rather than generic hair mask products.

The famous Balinese massage

A visit to Bali isn’t complete without experiencing the Balinese massage. This traditional technique uses a mix of finger pressure and palm strokes, alternating between firm and gentle, to relax muscles and restore energy flow.

Travelers often describe it as deeply relaxing yet energizing — the kind of massage that sends oxygen and warmth through your entire body. It’s the most iconic of Bali’s spa treatments.

Healing with boreh

For something more therapeutic, try Boreh, a traditional Balinese body scrub made of warming herbs and spices. The mixture is rubbed over the skin to create a heat sensation that helps improve circulation.

Boreh has long been used in villages as a remedy for headaches, chills, and sore muscles. Today, spas across the island offer it as both a cultural and healing experience.

Geothermal and hot spring spas

If you want to combine natural beauty with spa indulgence, head north to experience Bali’s geothermal hot springs.

A thermal spa is built around a natural hot spring — heated water from the earth’s crust rich in minerals that detoxify the body, improve metabolism, and boost circulation.

• Banjar Hot Springs: Located about 5 km from the Lovina coast, these sulphuric pools spill from the mouths of stone-carved naga (dragon-like creatures) into three steaming pools at around 37°C. The water is believed to help cure skin conditions.
• Banyuwedang Hot Springs: Found further west near Pemuteran, this natural hot spring is another favorite for healing and relaxation.

Both sites offer not just wellness, but a chance to soak in Bali’s stunning landscapes.

Why Bali’s spa culture is unforgettable

From a $5 street-side massage to a luxury retreat with herbal scrubs and hot springs, Bali offers spa experiences for every budget. What makes them unique is the blend of tradition, nature, and healing — treatments that don’t just pamper the body, but connect you with the island’s culture and energy.

Practical tips

Try local treatments: Don’t miss the creambath and boreh for truly Balinese experiences.
Go north for hot springs: Combine a trip to Lovina or Pemuteran with a healing soak.
Budget vs. luxury: Excellent massages can be found at every price point — from simple local parlors to high-end resorts.
Check products used: If you prefer natural ingredients, ask before your treatment.

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