This video by American traveller Matthew Kyhnn really caught my eye when he first published it on his travel blog a couple of months ago, and with his permission, I've reposted it below. The over 11 minute video is worth watching in its entirety as it records the impressions as a first time visitor to Bali on his journey around the island.

After commencing in Ubud ("there's not many monkeys in Iowa!") he strikes north then loops around through the west through some of the better known spots along with some that are a little more off the trail like Medewi Beach.

He was only in Bali a brief time -- so brief we didn't even have time to meet for a couple of cold beers -- but I reckon the briefness of his visit and the ground he covered, makes the video all the better.

So all you lazy beachbums hanging out in Kuta, go get some scooters and do some exploring -- just remember your license!

There are few points on Bali further from the airport than Pemuteran. Set towards the far northwestern point of the island and very close to the Bali Barat National Park, Pemuteran is a gently curving dark sand beach that is best known for its diving and snorkelling, and also for use as a base to visit the stunning Menjangan Island.

Dive and snorkelling entry point, Pemuteran, Bali

As with all the north coast beaches, there are no waves, but there is snorkelling and diving straight off the beach. Pemuteran is known for an unusual reef restoration project that relies on pumping low amounts of electricity into artificial frameworks that have been set on the sandy base. The results, in a fairly short period of time, are impressive. While it doesn't go close to rivaling the scenery at Menjangan Island, there are still bucketloads of fish. One blight both here and at Menjangan though are the plastic bags. When the currents and win run a certain way, the plastic refuse is a major issue. Collect a few handfuls if this is the case while you are there: You might encourage other people to do so as well and make a bit of a difference.

Underwater activities aside, you can use here as a base to go trekking in the National Park or visit some nearby temples. The beach is long and ideal for ambling walks -- lots of shells for the kids to pick up (though be sure to "forget to pack them" when you leave!).

Towards the eastern end of the beach is a small fishing village and the fishing boats, especially the very broad squid boats, are both interesting and photogenic. If you like walking, continue past the village all the way around the point, by another village and to the last large hotel in the area.

Pemuteran has just about zero nightlife, so with its smooth waters and low key atmosphere it tends to attract families and people looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of South Bali. Keep that in mind when deciding if you want to make the 4+ hour drive from Kuta to reach here. There is plenty of accommodation and while it tends towards the mid- to upper-range, there are good cheap rooms in Pemuteran as well.

Many first-time visitors to Bali find themselves a little underwhelmed by the beaches. It's a response easy to imagine considering all the beautiful beaches featured on Bali brochures and the reality of crowded Kuta. Luckily, Bali is a big island with pretty beaches enough for everyone, and over the next seven days we’ll show you one a day to help you fill out a week’s beach holiday in Bali.

Tags: 7 days 7 beaches, diving, pemuteran

Balian Beach was the place we first really fell in love with Bali. The black sand beach is set at the mouth of the same-named river. It's a big river and the combination of large surf, strong currents and the volume of water pouring out of the river -- especially in wet season -- doesn't make for a good swimming beach, BUT if you're a surfer, Balian is close to a must see.

Fisherman on Balian beach, Bali

A bunch of cafes up on the headland overlook the beach. They're not flash, so don't expect any double shot decaf soy milk lattes, but the views are unbeatable and the staff tend to be a friendly lot. Some shacks down on the sand will suit those who prefer to dig their toes in their sand.

Just about all the (quickly growing) accommodation at Balian beach is on the west side of the river and that's where you'll most likely spend most of your time, but if you're surfed out (or don't surf at all) wade across the river to the east side. That stretch of beach is really pleasant and ideal for aimless wandering -- it's also a bit better for swimming.

This is an out of the way location. Bank on at least two hours' drive from Kuta, more if the traffic packs it in, so it makes for a long day trip. Either work it into an around-the-island jaunt, or plan at least an overnight stay. The traffic (or rather quality of driving) can be quite hair-raising, so keep your wits about you if you're self-driving. The village on the main road is called Lalang Linggah and the turn off to the beach from the main road is almost immediately after a fairly tight bend and not well signposted (save for a bunch of guesthouse signs), so keep your eyes peeled.

Many first-time visitors to Bali find themselves a little underwhelmed by the beaches. It's a response easy to imagine considering all the beautiful beaches featured on Bali brochures and the reality of crowded Kuta. Luckily, Bali is a big island with pretty beaches enough for everyone, and over the next seven days we’ll show you one a day to help you fill out a week’s beach holiday in Bali.

Tags: 7 days 7 beaches, balian beach