25 Fairytale pre-wedding photoshoot locations in Bali that are perfect for romantic memories!

Bahasa version: https://indonesia.tripcanvas.co/id/bali/lokasi-foto-pre-wedding/

Written by Candice Neo
Co-written by Beverley Lennon, Oceana Setaysha and Toh Jia En

Are you preparing for your dream wedding? Planning for that exotic pre-wedding photoshoot in Bali but don’t want to take pictures in the typical locations that every couple goes to?

We all know that Bali is a gorgeous island with many hidden gems, untouched beaches, caves and majestic cliffs with spectacular ocean views, so surely, there must be places where people don’t know of!

Also read:

I planned 150 weddings in Bali and here’s everything you need to know before planning yours

14 of the coolest wedding places in Bali where you can marry in style

Here’s a little secret: I did my photoshoot in Bali, and I’m going to share with you some of the most beautiful locations with dramatic views of the island’s spectacular landscape. The best part? Some places are so secluded and hidden, most people don’t know about them – yet!

Editor’s tip: Almost everywhere in Bali, there will be local mafias who will approach couples and demand for a ‘location fee’ if they notice that you are all dressed up and doing a pre-wedding photoshoot. This happens at almost all public places in Bali, even when there’s no entrance fee for the general public who are simply there for sightseeing, and even at the most remote location (it’s scary but they will still notice you, somehow!). This location fee can range from Rp. 100,000 onwards.

In our story, we’ve included the photoshoot location fees for the places we know of, and we hope this will help you when you consider your budget for your photoshoot! But don’t let this put you off – trust us, if you love the Bali landscape, all the hassle will be worth it!

For my photoshoot, we literally hiked up hills in the middle of the night, intentionally stepped into the sea and got up on a treetop swing hanging above a lake!

As most photographers will tell you, if there’s no pain, you can’t get the most majestic photos. But what’s most important is that you enjoy the process – your happiness shows in the photos! And it’s fun getting dolled up and posing in gorgeous dresses (perhaps only the groom may get slightly impatient).

Mine was truly an adventure and we were rewarded with spectacular photos and fun memories to last us a lifetime. And so will yours be!

1. Panoramic view of the sunrise over Mount Batur: Pinggan Village

If you have been dreaming of getting that epic sunrise photo with the majestic Mount Batur in the background, Pinggan Village is the best viewpoint where you can have that unobstructed panorama.

Very few couples and wedding photographers have heard of this hidden scenic spot, so at most, you’ll spot another couple, but most of the people camped at this spot would be travel photographers waiting for dawn to break.

To catch the sunrise, you need to reach this viewpoint at around 5.30 to 6am, depending on the time of year. This means setting off from your hotel (the nearest affordable accommodation option is about an hour away) by 4am to be on the safe side, which means that for brides-to-be, you have to start your make-up at 2am.

And be warned, the journey here can be arduous, if you take the wrong route! As it was our first time travelling to Pinggan Village, we used Google Maps, which naturally recommended the shortest route – and we ended up at a steep and slippery dirt route that our car could not climb.

So we were left with only two choices – either we hike up the slippery and windy road for around 20 minutes (and mind you, this was at 5am; there were no street lamps, there were huge trucks trundling down in the opposite direction and while one side of the road was flanked by high cliffs, the other side was the edge of the hill without any barrier) or we abandon the location.

Being the stubborn travellers we were, we did not want to admit defeat, and chose to go on, guided by our very game and adventurous photographer.

But trust me, it’s NOT fun to have to hike up a slippery dirt road in your gown and suit in almost pitch darkness with only flashlights to guide your way. I could not be more thankful that I was wearing a black dress that was pretty hardy because I actually slipped a couple of times! And getting up to this viewpoint involves some climbing and dirt, so we don’t recommend wearing a white dress!

Our efforts paid off and we caught the sunrise in time, but for safety reasons, we don’t recommend anyone else to do this. Do consult your hotel staff on the sanest directions to get to Pinggan Village when you check in.

2. Over 5 photoshoot locations within 1 integrated resort! – AYANA Resort and Spa, BALI

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AYANA Resort and Spa could well be the first trip you want to take together. Or best yet, the destination of your proposal. But wait, why not also consider it for your pre-wedding photoshoot too? It might even become your ultimate wedding destination followed by an extraordinary honeymoon!

This stunning venue might well top up the list of the most Instagrammable places to get your pre-wedding pictures taken at – it boasts magical spots for a series of romantic memories!

Bask in the beauty of their glass chapel as you stand on the walkway that makes you feel as if you’re floating above water – the romance of the reflecting water and glass entrance is simply matchless.

Or if you feel like thanking the ocean by getting closer to it, you will love your pictures to be taken at Kubu Beach that offers a unique scenery and unblemished view as the sun descends.

Back in the luxurious vicinity of the resort, their beautiful wedding venue – SKY lets you enjoy the thrill of being perched some 35 metres above the Indian Ocean. This has to be our favorite photoshoot location – it has that unique exotic touch to it as it comes with dramatic views!

What’s more, AYANA Resort and Spa, BALI also follows up with the latest vintage photos trends with their rustica-looking jetty; a beautiful way to show that your love will grow through time!

And if both of you are real adventure lovers, consider a pre-wedding escape to AYANA Komodo Resort, Waecicu Beach – a hidden gem in beautiful Flores with equally (if not more) stunning photoshoot spots!

*Note: Photoshoots at AYANA are only available for couples who are holding their weddings at AYANA Midplaza, JAKARTA, AYANA Resort and Spa, BALI, RIMBA Jimbaran BALI by AYANA and AYANA Komodo Resort, Waecicu Beach.

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3. Get on top of a dramatic rocky cliff! – Balangan Beach

Bali sure has stunning paddy fields, beautiful beaches and magical jungles, but these are so last year! Time to hit its dramatic cliftops!

Balangan Beach is the ideal place if you want your romantic pictures to leave you agape. It offers amazing ocean views that can look much more spectacular and add so much more character to your pictures.

In fact, some couples even choose the location as their intimate wedding venue as it can perfectly accommodate your truly special inner circle.

You’ll be perched on top of a clifftop and your photographer might well capture stunning angles that will make you look like you are literally hanging on top of the ocean. Balangan Beach is also a surfing paradise so you can eventually expects big giants as a backdrop – nothing more breathtaking to complement your pictures!

TripCanvas’ Tip: For even more stunning views, you might want to come here at sunset!

4. Go beyond just Bali mainland for your photos! – Rumah Pohon Nusa Penida

We sure know that Bali boasts a ton of photoshoot locations but have you ever thought about the nearby islands that are just a boat ride away? If you want rugged, dramatic backgrounds for your pictures then Nusa Penida is one that won’t disappoint.

One not-to-miss spot is the Rumah Pohon – a beautiful tree house with ridiculously epic views of the ocean and nearby scattered limestone rocks.

It is part of the Thousand Island viewpoint (close to Atuh Beach) and what’s best is that you can even opt to book the treehouse to yourself (yes, as well as spending the night in).

5. Dance in the flower fields: Marigold field

If you took that wrong route up Pinggan Village, you know that you have the take the same route down again because you need to collect your car that’s likely parked at the end of that steep and slippery road. You wouldn’t be able to imagine how we dreaded walking down (which is honestly scarier than the upward climb, though there was already daylight).

But as they say, it’s always during times of adversity that you see the best in people. Some villagers offered to send us down on their motorbikes, and they refused to take any payment when we tried to tip them for their effort. The epitome of genuine Balinese hospitality!

As we drove down, we noticed a gorgeous sight that wasn’t visible in the dark earlier – a vast field of marigold flowers! They are grown by a local farmer, who likely harvests the flowers for Balinese offerings. (If you’d noticed, the Balinese handmade offerings can commonly be seen on the roadside, and they usually consist of fresh marigold, rice and incense.)

This unexpected discovery happily became another romantic photoshoot location for us!

Wasn’t it such a blessing in disguise? If we hadn’t taken the wrong route, we might not have discovered this field!

Editor’s Note: The farmer will not press for a location fee, but as a gesture of goodwill, we felt that it is only right that we gave a small token of appreciation for allowing us to step into his delicate marigold field (hopefully we didn’t destroy anything). We recommend all our readers to do the same. Rp. 20,000 (approximately USD 1.50) is a reasonable sum.

6. Treetop swing over the lake: Puncak Danau Buyan Wanagiri, Bedugul

This is a trending whimsical spot that’s relatively lesser known among wedding photographers, though well-known among local social influencers, who flock here rain or shine, just to take that perfect Instagram photo on the giant swing hanging right above Lake Buyan.

Isn’t it simply magical to sit on this swing with your loved one? The lake in our photo appears a little grey due to the rain, but if you are here on a bright sunny day, you’ll get a more gorgeous photo for sure!

We nearly had to miss this spot because of the downpour, but thankfully it slowed after an hour, and we decided to take that leap of faith to brave the subsequent drizzle (and no, my make-up did not run, thanks to my dedicated make-up artist!).

We were so thankful we did so, because the clouds soon cleared and we could see the setting sun peeping through, sending soft rays through the mist. The sight was simply surreal, especially at this platform right beside the swing.

And don’t you simply love this cute boat platform?

About five-minutes’ drive away, you can also find this Instagrammable giant bird’s nest that’s suspended on the treetops!

P.S. If you’re tired of taking photos in the hot and humid Balinese climate, you’ll love it here. As the Buyan Swing is located at a higher altitude, it’s actually pretty chilly up here. We were actually freezing in the rain!

7. For the wanderous souls: Tukad Cepung Waterfall

If you’re thinking that this background is photoshopped, you’d better give it another thought! Pre-wedding shoots at waterfalls are gaining lots of attention lately. Indeed, it takes an adventurous couple who aren’t afraid to get dirty to access Mother Nature’s beautiful creations!

Needless to say, waterfalls on their own are simply dreamlike. Now add in your partner and yourself, a dose of romanticism with the perfect gown flowing gently in the white water stream, droplets on your skin while you both kiss slowly… or perhaps be a little different and opt for a bikini?

There is something so intense, magical and unique about couple shots at a waterfall like Tukad Cepung. While the trek down is said to be mangeable, you should get ready for some traces of mud here and there as you will pass through streams, but this simply brings a natural touch to your pre-wedding pictures! It does not always have to be perfect prince and princess looks – bare feet and messy hair are picture-worthy too!

Your shots against the magical waterfall will take a romantic turn, while you are guided by your photographer. As sun rays pierce through the rock formations, you’ll get a glittery effect on the water and a fairy-like Tinkerbell touch to pictures!

So if you both enjoy adventurous experiences together, go on a journey to Tukad Cepung and document your special moments in the natural scenery!

8. That vast stretch of paddy fields: Tegallalang Rice Terraces

If you’re in love with Bali’s rice paddies as much as I do, you can’t miss Tegallalang, the famed rice terraces in Ubud!

Although this is a touristy spot, you won’t be able to find a more beautiful vast expanse of rice terraces elsewhere in Bali – they are so beautifully sculpted, you’ll feel as though you just walked into a work of art. I was very pleasantly awestruck.

A panoramic photo here would be excellent!

P.S. We recommend wearing a pair of comfortable slippers as you navigate this paddy maze, because there’s a bit of climbing involved and you’ll be sinking your shoes into mud (read: paddy fields = muddy fields!). Bring your heels and formal shoes along to change into when you’ve found your special photo spot, but don’t bring anything white, they’ll be caked in mud at the end of the day!

9. Gateway to heaven: Pura Luhur Lempuyang

Standing at this pre-historic viewpoint will make you feel really small, especially when you stare out ahead at the magnificent Mount Agung, flanked by beautiful valleys and the distant ocean spread out before you.

The sheer size of the gates of Bali’s oldest Hindu temple, nestled at the top of Mount Lempuyang (previously known as Bisbis Hill) at Karangasem, will leave you awestruck.

Although we did not visit this place for our photoshoot, how could we have left it out of this recommended list?

After ascending 1,700 steps to reach this point, as you stand hand-in-hand with your partner at the gates, gazing out at the majesty of nature, wouldn’t it be such a strong symbolism of your love and vision of your new lives together?

Editor’s Note: As this is a temple complex, you will need to ensure that you are dressed conservatively (i.e. in long skirts) before you can enter.

10. A whimsical wandering – Bukit Teletubbies

Located on Nusa Penida (an island off the southeastern coast of Bali) – Bukit Teletubbies is an undulating pasture covered in verdant green grass, ferns, and lavender.

Some people think it reminds them of New Zealand, but the popular name for this wonderland is Bukit Teletubbies because it looks just like the hill the Teletubbies lived on.

Just sunlight, trees, hills, you and your partner, a good photographer – all the good stuff.

Your pre-wedding photos will have a magnificent open sprawling quality, bathed in golden yellow sunlight.

Do be sure to avoid the dry season between May and September, as the grass dries up and turns brown.

And another thing to note, as this area is less developed and commercialized than Bali’s mainland, do not expect many modern amenities or to be able to buy luxuries, so do bring them along.

11. Where majestic cliffs and secret caves meet sunset over the ocean: Melasti Beach (Uluwatu)

Although Melasti Beach is very popular among many couples (you will be able to count at least six other couples taking their pre-wedding photoshoot here during sunset), we didn’t want to miss it because well, it’s one of the best beaches in Bali that has a variety of dramatic natural attractions.

So you can stay here for quite a few hours and get very different shots!

Here, you can start with romantic photos by the dramatic high cliffs.

Melasti beach is famous for its sunset, so make sure you capture it! The tide comes in at the end of the day, and if you’re wearing a light long dress, step into the water to get a magical effect. We recommend wearing something slightly more casual for this shoot – you don’t want to miss the water effect or risk getting your expensive gown wet.

But make sure this is your last location for the day, because as the waves come in, you will be drenched!

If your photographer is familiar with Melasti Beach, he should know of this little cave where you can get some pretty unique photos!

Editor’s Note: There are two Melasti beaches in Bali. This one is at Ungasan, Uluwatu. There is another Melasti beach near Tanah Lot with a waterfall that flows into the sea. We chose the one at Uluwatu because there are more attractions at the beach for photo-taking, such as the cliffs, beach, and caves. The other Melasti beach only has one attraction – the waterfall.

12. Secret beach with waterblow: Honeymoon Beach

You and your photoshoot team can have the entire beach to yourselves, especially if you are here in the morning.

Although Honeymoon Beach is just next to the popular Tegal Wangi Beach, not many people have heard of this place. This is likely due to its secluded location – you need to park your car along the Jalan Tegal Wangi and walk in along the bumpy and rocky dirt road for 20 minutes (if you aren’t in your gown, you’ll probably be faster) before you see the beach.

So ladies, please wear slippers and change into your heels only when you reach the beach!

Don’t expect to find sand here – it’s a beach with beautiful rocky cliffs, and if you are lucky, you can even catch the waterblow!

Imagine the waves splashing up on the cliffs behind you as you pose for your romantic picture – isn’t it simply dramatic?

Editor’s Note: Even though this is such a secluded location, don’t think you can escape from the local mafias and their extortions! They will still manage to find you somehow (we’re guessing they found us because they saw our car), and there’s no way you can say you aren’t doing a pre-wedding photoshoot if you’re all dressed up, so be prepared to fork out that location fee here too. Good thing is, the location fee covers both Honeymoon Beach and Tegal Wangi Beach, so you can head there after.

13. Where the waters crash against the cliffs: Tegal Wangi Beach

Tegal Wangi Beach is another popular pre-wedding photoshoot location, but to capture the best of this place, you need to come at a time when the tide is low enough for you to descend the cliffs, so that you can take a dramatic shot of the waves crashing against rocks at your feet like this.

You can even take photos in a cave under the cliffs!

When we arrived, the tide was high, so we could only do our photoshoot on the cliffs, which is lovely too.

You can also soak in a natural ‘jacuzzi’ in the water – a unique activity you can consider when you are back here again to relax in your swimsuit!

14. It’s naturally magical! – Suluban Beach

Descending down a short flight of steep rock stairs, the journey to Suluban Beach is made worth your while – with amazing sights of little natural rock pools dotting the beach far out to the ocean.

The way the sunlight hits this peculiarly beautiful beach at all the right angles, definitely makes it a glowing recommendation for a pre-wedding photoshoot location.

Whether you’re taking photos by the stairs under Suluban caves (which resembles a set out of Pirates of the Caribbean), or taking photos by the gorgeous rock formations further in – photos at Suluban Beach will give you beach vibes that are utterly different (read: more magical) than the usual beach wedding photoshoot!

15. Revel in Retro – Cosmic Diner

Do you love all things retro; are Rebel Without a Cause and Rear Window your favourite films; do you obsess over cat eye sunglasses, poodle skirts and letter jackets? Or maybe you’re just attracted to bright colours and unusual themes.

If what you just read strikes your fancy read on.

Cosmic Diner is a 1950s-styled American diner, stepping into it is like heading into Edward Hopper’s famous painting, Nighthawks.

Every detail is perfect: retro art posters, the shiny checkered floor guaranteed to pop in your photos, red booth seats, the vintage radio, that cute payphone (that uses coins, with numbers that you dial in). The restaurant’s large windows allow for plenty of natural light.

Be sure to get a photo of yourselves in the stairwell, flooded with yellow lighting, covered floor to ceiling with bold posters on one side – and a full-length mirror on the other this is the perfect place to memorialize yourselves.

The art crowds the frame making for the perfect shot. Also there are no photo fees required to hold your photo shoot at the Cosmic Diner, the only requirement is to spend at least $30 on food, which you can do for lunch.

16. The beautiful: misty and mysterious – Lake Tamblingan

An already dramatic location for photography, Lake Tamblingan can look either cheery or moody depending on the weather. And if you go there at first light, you may even catch the morning fog rising off the lake.

Lake Tamblingan is located on the north slope of Mount Mortar, and apart from being beautiful – it is also an interesting geological phenomenon.  Called a caldera, Lake Tamblingan was created when volcanoes caused the area to collapse!

Another thing located on Lake Tamblingan’s shores, Gubug Temple will add some mystery to your photos. This abandoned temple was left to watch over the lake forever, when it was flooded due to heavy rainfall.

For added fun, and an interesting and unexpected element in your photos,  rent a rowboat and sail out to a platform in the middle of the lake. Boats can be rented for $30.

Take amazing photos on the boat, or on the platform rising out of the middle of the lake, this wondrous pre-wedding shoot location is perfect for those who love a little mist and mystery.

17. Exclusive, adventurous, and really unique – Menjangan Island in West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park has a lot going for it even if you may not have heard of it. In fact, that’s one of the perks of getting your wedding photos done there.

Being somewhat off the beaten path, there are not many tourists and you’ll get plenty of admiring questions about where exactly you found paradise.

The national park has very varied habitats, from dry savannah, acacia scrub and lowland forests, to lush forests in the centre which is high – as well as mangrove forests and extinct volcanoes.

The coast is also lined with beaches and coral reefs, so according to how you plan your shoot, these environments can be incorporated into your theme just about any way you want.

Want something beachy and marine-inspired – or lush green forests in your photos? No problem!

There are even horses, and vintage rides for you to take your photos with – and another interesting thing to note?

Wild deer often wade out to sea to drink the water. Imagine wedding photos with herds of wild deer in the ocean? Surreal.

18. Have a zany camel adventure – Hilton Bali Resort

Hilton Bali Resort is located on a secluded beach, which means your epic wedding finery will have a setting of bright blue skies, white sand and no people.

The best part about getting your pre-wedding photos done at the Hilton Bali Resort has to be the camels. To shoot with a pair of camels, book in advance and be sure to arrive on time for your half hour slot.

Ride on them and pretend to be a Bedouin, or with their long necks towering over you. In any case, camels and their humps and long eyelashes will definitely add zany charm to your photos.

19. Hide away in a Mangrove Forest

The exotic and unusual nature of the mangrove forest appeals to many couples, and not just because it is incredibly beautiful.

Metaphorically, the mangrove is a barrier, a safe haven for many creatures to develop, just as a relationship gives you a safe space to grow.

Perhaps this hidden mangrove forest, with its charming boardwalk and lush surroundings is the secret spot you’ve been dreaming of?

20. Embrace the tropical beauty on Lembongan Island

Want the sun, trees, cliffs and sea all in your wedding photoshoot?

Lembongan Island, a sparsely populated tropical beauty, is a stunning mix of different locations and experiences.

Wander on the seashore, float out into the ocean or stand on the incredible clifftops – these will be incredible moments to be memorialised, that neither of you will ever forget!

21. Dance in the water at Tukad Unda

If you think this is a waterfall, think again!

Tukad Unda is actually a dam, left behind from the Dutch colonisation of Bali.

It’s the perfect place to take wedding photographs, with the soothing running water creating a misty and romantic atmosphere – so much love is in the air!

22. Live the fairytale at the Royal Water Palace

If you love fairytales and ruined castles, you’ll love the Water Palace of Taman Ujung, a royal residence located in the Karangasam area of Bali.

This romantic spot, with its maze of pools and fountains, was almost entirely destroyed when Mount Agung erupted in 1963.

Since then, this ruin has attracted lovers seeking to memorialise themselves amidst its crumbling glory, timelessly beautiful like all love should be.

23. Discover magic at Sayan Gorge

The beautiful Sayan Gorge is home to numerous exclusive luxury villas, and a magnet for travellers looking to get away from it all.

Where better to get stunning wedding photos than in this lush rainforest, forever growing and blossoming like your love?

As you stand in the gorge, the river runs all around you – that magical moment will be a precious memory to keep.

24. Step into a dream at the Tulamben Shipwreck

Isn’t this simply surreal?

The Tulamben Shipwreck is one of the most gorgeous places to take your wedding photoshoot, underwater. It’s every girl’s dream.

Recreating it might be a challenge (you’ll probably need to practise holding your breath for a really, really long time), but trust us, it’s completely worth it.

As long as you aren’t afraid to take the plunge, dreams can really come true.

25. Go all classic at the Tirtha Uluwatu Chapel

Who says a traditional wedding photoshoot in a chapel can’t take your breath away?

The Tirtha Uluwatu Chapel is a masterpiece of glass, showcasing the stunning cliffs of Uluwatu and the glittering ocean beyond.

Isn’t it the best place to capture the moment of your everlasting love, just like the never-ending horizon?

Have we inspired you to take your pre-wedding photoshoot on this beautiful island? In Bali, you can find romantic beaches, majestic mountains, lakes, rainforest valleys with rushing rivers, towering cliffs with crashing waves and of course, memorable sunrises and sunsets in these spectacular landscapes.

Tell us, where would you choose to go?

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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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