'Bali is so much more than a party island. Here are all the wholesome things to do there.'

When I told my friends that my husband and I were going to Bali for our honeymoon, their reactions were disappointing to say the least.

At first, I couldn't understand it. Bali is a beautiful island with a balmy climate, lush green jungle and ancient temples. To me, it's gorgeous and romantic — but then I remembered that I am the only person in my friend group who doesn't drink, so I often view travel destinations differently.

Let me say this in clear terms: Bali is not too basic a location to travel to. Do not let Aussies make you feel that way! We have a bad habit of looking down on Bali while simultaneously going there all the time for cheap drinks and beach clubs.

It's something I've had a gripe about for a long time (don't even get me started on the colonial elements of that mentality), and so I'm here to tell you: There is so much you can do in Bali that doesn't have to involve partying and drinking, because it's an island rich in natural beauty and culture. Take it from a Muslim girly who is allergic to nightlife and prefers quiet!

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If you want to travel somewhere tropical, with beautiful views, culture and a lush natural landscape, you can totally do that in Bali. It's only a short flight away, and it's more affordable than many other places.

So, here are my personal recommendations, as someone who went twice in one year — once for work, and once for my honeymoon.

What to do in Bali if you don't party.

Check out the local markets and galleries.

I'll be honest, I almost never shop while on holidays. My mindset is that it's something I can do at home, and the last thing I want to do on vacation is spend it in a shopping centre.

The only time I do shop is when I'm going to local markets, because I love trinkets and handmade thingamabobs. There are heaps of markets in Bali, and they're really fun to peruse, and a great alternative activity for non-partying travellers.

My husband rifling through a market stall. Image: Soaliha Iqbal/supplied.

I personally enjoyed shopping in Ubud the most. Aside from markets, there's also an array of restaurants and art galleries, and some great cafes, too!

Go for a walk.

There are so many cultural and natural attractions in Bali, and going for a walk is a good way to catch them if you want budget-friendly travel options that also don't involve drinking.

There's a short walk called the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud, which has beautiful hilltop views and is near to everything else.

You can also stroll through the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, though, be warned — the monkeys will climb onto you if they think you have food. I was a victim because I made the mistake of taking my face mask off, and they thought it was a chip packet.

Enter at your own risk (RIP). Image: Soaliha Iqbal/supplied.

However, even if you aren't staying in a jungle-y area, there are heaps of walks across Bali — on beaches, through shopping precincts and weaving through temples.

I tried to walk everywhere I could because it's a great way to get acquainted with your surroundings, and you might find eateries or boutiques you wouldn't have otherwise.

Go for a walk — you never know what gems you'll find! Image: Soaliha Iqbal/supplied.

Go snorkelling at Nusa Penida.

Okay, so admittedly I haven't done this myself — but only because I ran out of time.

I spent more time in the jungle areas of Bali than on its beaches, but the surf scene is said to be incredible and there's an array of sealife that you can see if you're lucky!

Go snorkelling, diving or just take a swim and enjoy the coast. Maybe you'll even spot a sea turtle.

Swim at a private beach or pool.

Kuta Beach is one of Bali's main tourist attractions, but it's also known for its partying and nightlife, and can be a LOT if you are crowd-averse.

If you stay in a resort area like Nusa Dua, you'll likely have access to a private beach, which is a great way to enjoy the coast in a more tranquil sense as a non-drinker. Most Balinese resorts have private pools, too. Grab a book, an iced tea and you're set!

Left: A rooftop pool at TS Suites in Seminyak; Right: the pool that came with my room at Merusaka in Nusa Dua. Image: Soaliha Iqbal/Supplied.

Get a massage.

The average cost of an hour-long massage in Seminyak is about $20 AUD, and you best believe I made the most of that when I was there.

Seminyak is becoming more known for its nightlife, but I had fun going to markets, eating amazing food and getting massages, too — no partying necessary.

Enjoy the local food scene.

Ugh, I miss Bali's food scene! Whether you are in Seminyak, Ubud or wherever, the food is amazing.

Bali's national dish is nasi goreng, which I ate an unholy amount of, but there are heaps of cuisines (not just local) that you can try if you want some variety.

The food in Bali is quite possibly the best part... Image: Soaliha Iqbal/supplied.

I went to Balinese restaurants, but also had Indian food, vegan teriyaki, Sydney-style brunch, and Thai food.

Also, please try tempeh in Bali — it is actually so good and not bitter like here in Australia. Eating your way through Bali is its own form of travel, honestly!

Climb a rice terrace.

Rice terraces are one of the main attractions in Ubud, and there are plenty to visit. The weather is super hot, but you can buy a fresh coconut to sip on while you trek up and down the terraces and admire just how freakin' vast they are. You can also go on tours to nearby waterfalls as well.

Image: Soaliha Iqbal/supplied.

Visit a temple.

There are many Hindu temples in Bali that offer a look into its rich history and culture. Tirta Empul Temple is a must-see if you're in the area (you can also go for a day trip to Ubud, if you aren't, and check out its other attractions too).

The temple (which is a UNESCO site) holds spiritual bathing ceremonies and its volcanic springs date back to the 900s.

There are lots of temples all around different cities in Bali, but please be mindful that many are not open to the public, so be respectful and don't intrude.

Conquer a volcano.

I don't think I had any idea what I was signing up for when I decided to hike Mount Batur (which is an active volcano more than an hour's drive north of Ubud).

I had to leave my accommodation at 3am to get to the starting point for the hike by 4am (to then hike the volcano in time to see the sunrise). We were given banana and chocolate pancakes (which I couldn't eat because of veganism, RIP) before we started the ascent, and hoo boy! This is NOT for the faint of heart!

Genuinely a spiritual experience. Image: Soaliha Iqbal/supplied.

I was huffing and puffing like a wolf trying to blow a piggy's house down, and my legs have never burned so much in my life. But let me tell you: this was my favourite thing that I did in Ubud and by far the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life.

The sunrise was beautiful, but seeing our surroundings come to light as they were bathed in the dawn light was truly a site to behold. AND I saw wild monkeys. I felt like I was in an episode of Planet Earth — truly breathtaking.

The point is, you can have an incredible, fulfilling trip to Bali that will become a core memory without having to partake in partying or drinking culture, if that's not your vibe.

Travelling is for everyone, you just have to figure out what you like!

Feature image: Supplied.