Bali Rebounds Strong: International Arrivals Soar, with Australia and India Leading the Charge in 2025’s Tourism Growth, What It Means for Future Travel – Here’s What to Know

Published on February 3, 2026

Image generated with Ai

In 2025, Bali recorded a remarkable surge in foreign tourist arrivals, with nearly 6.95 million visitors marking a 10% increase compared to the previous year. The island, which remains one of Southeast Asia’s most coveted destinations, experienced an impressive recovery in its tourism sector. This boost can be attributed to improved air and sea connectivity, making it more accessible than ever.

The latest statistics provided by the Bali office of Statistics Indonesia (BPS) reveal that Bali has not only regained its status as a top destination but is also capitalizing on emerging travel trends. Notably, cruise tourism has played a significant role, with seaport arrivals showing a 65.88% increase. As the island continues to recover post-pandemic, the growing influx of international travelers signals a strong year ahead for Bali’s tourism industry.

A Significant Year for Bali’s Tourism

The rise in tourist numbers was largely driven by strengthened international connections. In total, Bali welcomed 6,948,754 foreign tourists in 2025, a sharp increase of 9.72% from the previous year. The global economic landscape remained uncertain throughout 2025, but travel demand remained resilient, particularly in Bali, where tourism is a major contributor to the local economy.

The expansion of flight routes and new cruise ship calls proved to be pivotal. Additionally, the rise in seaport arrivals stood out as a defining trend in 2025. The total number of sea arrivals increased significantly, with 41,169 tourists arriving via seaports. This marked an impressive increase of over 65% from the prior year, thanks to more cruise ships docking on the island and the availability of better transport connections.

Australia Leads Bali’s Tourism Market

When breaking down the figures by region of origin, Australia remained the largest contributor to Bali’s tourism numbers. In 2025, Australian tourists accounted for a staggering 1.63 million arrivals, representing 23.44% of total foreign visits. India, with 569,260 visitors, and China, with 537,380 arrivals, ranked second and third respectively.

The other top source countries included South Korea, the United Kingdom, France, and the United States, each contributing significant numbers. Notably, Bali’s diverse international appeal has been reinforced as Oceania, Europe, Asia, and even the Middle East recorded strong increases in arrivals throughout the year.

The tourism statistics for 2025 demonstrated not just a post-pandemic recovery but also a changing global tourism landscape, with travelers from more regions now choosing Bali as their destination of choice.

A Growing Role of Sea Tourism

As Bali’s tourism landscape diversifies, sea arrivals are making an indelible mark. The island’s popularity among cruise travelers has continued to rise, marking January to December 2025 as a landmark year for maritime tourism. The presence of large cruise ships significantly increased the number of visitors arriving by sea. December alone saw 13,878 tourists arriving via seaports, which marked a 102.39% year-over-year increase. This surge reflects Bali’s position as a prime destination for global cruise itineraries.

The rise of sea tourism is also indicative of broader travel patterns. Travelers are increasingly seeking multimodal options that offer both sea and air connectivity, making Bali an even more attractive destination for long-haul travelers.

Bali’s High Season Sees Strong Demand

Bali’s high season saw substantial increases in foreign arrivals, particularly in the final quarter of the year. The island witnessed a 18.48% month-on-month increase in foreign arrivals in December, with 572,668 tourists visiting the island during this period. This rise in travel coincided with the holiday season, which further boosted the demand for leisure travel.

Despite ongoing economic uncertainties and fluctuating global travel restrictions, Bali has successfully maintained its position as one of Asia’s most important travel hubs. The year-end spike in arrivals showcases the lasting appeal of Bali as a premier travel destination for international visitors, particularly from markets like Australia, India, and China.

Domestic Tourism: A Pillar of Support for Bali’s Economy

While international arrivals were soaring, domestic tourism remained an important aspect of Bali’s recovery. In December 2025, Bali recorded over 2.1 million domestic tourist trips. The total number of domestic trips during the entire year reached 26.6 million, highlighting the strong support from local travelers. Indonesian tourists have continued to be essential for sustaining the island’s tourism sector.

Bali’s combination of international allure and domestic loyalty has positioned it for sustained growth in the coming years. As the island continues to evolve, its appeal to both foreign and local tourists remains undeniable.

Travel Tips for Visiting Bali in 2026

1. Book Your Flights Early: With increasing international traffic, flights to Bali are expected to fill up fast. Consider booking early, especially for the peak months of July and December.
2. Explore Beyond Kuta: While Kuta remains a top destination, consider venturing to Bali’s lesser-known regions like Ubud, Canggu, and Nusa Dua for a more relaxed experience.
3. Cruise Around Bali: With the rise of sea tourism, why not take a cruise around the island? A boat tour can provide a unique perspective on Bali’s breathtaking coastlines.
4. Respect Local Traditions: Bali is known for its rich cultural heritage. Be mindful of local customs and etiquette, especially when visiting temples and sacred sites.
5. Avoid Peak Season Crowds: To avoid large crowds, plan your visit during the shoulder months like April-May or October-November for a more peaceful experience.