Tipping in Bali: Who to Pay, How Much, and Why It Matters?

ara kahfi sarah

January 15, 2026

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Tipping in Bali is not mandatory the way it is in some countries, but it’s a kind and widely appreciated way to say thank you for good service. Many restaurants already include tax and service charges on the bill, so tipping is often optional rather than expected.

In this article, we’ll break down how tipping works in Bali, when it’s appropriate, and how much is considered fair. Think of this as a simple, practical guide to tipping in Bali, so you can show appreciation without feeling unsure or awkward.

Table of Contents

How Much to Tip in Bali: The Complete Breakdown

If you’re wondering how much to tip in Bali, the good news is that it’s flexible and based on appreciation, not obligation. Most places are relaxed about tipping, but a small extra gesture can go a long way and is always warmly received.

Restaurants and Cafés

Many dining spots already include tax and service on the bill, especially at popular cafés and some of the best restaurants around Bali.

With service charge included: Rounding up the bill or leaving IDR 10,000–20,000 is more than enough.
Without service charge: A tip of around 5–10% feels appropriate.
Food delivery (Gojek or Grab): Adding IDR 5,000–10,000 through the app or in cash is a thoughtful way to thank the driver.

Spas and Massage Services

After a relaxing treatment at a good spa, tipping therapists is very common and appreciated. If you’re unsure how much to tip in Bali massage, here’s a simple reference:

Local or small spas: IDR 10,000–20,000 per therapist.
Luxury spas or resort spas: Around IDR 50,000–100,000, depending on how great the experience was.

Hotels and Villas

Tipping hotel and villa staff helps acknowledge the behind-the-scenes care that makes your stay special.

Bellboys or porters: IDR 10,000–20,000 per bag.
Housekeeping: IDR 20,000–50,000 per day, usually left in the room when you check out.
Private villas: If you’re staying with full service, how much to tip in Bali villa usually means pooling IDR 100,000–200,000 to be shared among the staff at the end of your stay.

Transportation

Getting around is a big part of the Bali experience, whether you’re heading to a beach, a café, or your favorite hangout spot. For metered taxis or online rides like Grab and Gojek, the easiest Bali driver tip is simply rounding up the fare.

If your ride costs IDR 37,000, paying IDR 40,000 feels natural, while for longer trips, adding IDR 5,000–10,000 is always appreciated.

If you hire a car with a driver for the day (usually 8–10 hours), tipping is more customary. A tip of IDR 50,000–100,000 is considered polite, especially if your driver is friendly, patient in traffic, or happy to share local insights, whether that’s where to shopping in Bali or which areas to avoid at peak hours.

Tour Guides and Activities

Guides often play a huge role in making your day smooth, safe, and memorable, so a Bali tour guide tip is a nice way to say thanks. For activity guides such as rafting, ATV rides, or trekking adventures, tipping around IDR 30,000–50,000 per person is common, especially after physically demanding experiences.

For cultural or private tour guides who spend hours explaining temples, traditions, and local stories, IDR 100,000 or more is a generous and well-respected gesture, depending on the length of the tour. Surf instructors also appreciate tips, with IDR 20,000–50,000 after a session being a simple way to show gratitude for their guidance in the waves.

Common Questions Travelers Ask About Tipping in Bali

Understanding Bali tipping culture can feel confusing at first, but once you know the basics, it’s actually very relaxed and flexible. Here’s a simple guide to help you feel confident about how much to tip in Bali and when it makes sense.

Is IDR 5,000 or IDR 20,000 a good tip?
IDR 5,000 is perfectly fine for small, everyday services. It’s commonly given to Gojek or Grab drivers, or used to round up short taxi fares.

IDR 20,000 is a safe and well-received amount in many situations. This tip works well for a local spa therapist, a restaurant server when service is good, or a hotel bellboy helping with your luggage. It’s also a useful reference if you’re unsure how much to tip at a hotel in Indonesia
Is IDR 50,000 too much?
Not at all. IDR 50,000 is considered a very good tip in Bali and shows genuine appreciation. It’s commonly given to a private driver after a half-day tour, a therapist at a luxury spa, or housekeeping staff after several nights of service.
Is IDR 100,000 generous?
Yes, and in the best way. 100,000 rupiah is a good tip in Bali when someone has gone above and beyond. This amount is usually reserved for full-day private drivers or tour guides (8–10 hours), or villa staff who delivered exceptional service throughout your stay.
Should you tip in USD or IDR?
Always tip in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While foreign currency may seem convenient, it actually creates extra hassle for locals who need to exchange it. Small or worn foreign bills are often rejected, so tipping in IDR is more practical, respectful, and appreciated.

Tipping Mistakes to Avoid in Bali

Avoid tipping with coins.
Even though coins have value, leaving them as a tip can feel impersonal, almost like clearing out loose change. It’s always better to give paper bills, ideally in Rp2,000 or Rp5,000 notes or higher, to show genuine respect, whether you’re at a café, spa, or even at Sunday markets.
Always check your bill first.
Many restaurants, beach clubs, and popular spots already include tax and a service charge (usually around 5–10%). If you don’t take a quick look, you might end up tipping twice without realizing it.
Use clean, undamaged cash.
In Indonesia, torn or badly worn banknotes can be hard to use and may be refused by small shops or banks. Make sure the money you give is in good condition so it’s actually useful for the person receiving it.
Skip foreign currency when tipping.
Tipping in USD or AUD, especially small notes, can be inconvenient for locals who must exchange them later. For smoother and more thoughtful tipping in Bali, always choose Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).

Practical Tips for Tipping in Bali

Keep small bills handy.
Try to always carry Rp5,000, Rp10,000, or Rp20,000 notes in an easy-to-reach pocket. It makes tipping effortless when you want to appreciate parking attendants, bellboys, or motorcycle taxi drivers, no waiting for change, no awkward pauses.
Offer tips with your right hand.
In Indonesian culture, using your right hand shows respect. If you want to be extra polite, hand over the money with your right hand while lightly touching your right elbow with your left, a small Balinese gesture that’s quietly appreciated.
Give it personally, with a smile.
For spa therapists, guides, or drivers, it’s best to hand the tip directly while saying a simple “thank you.” It feels more genuine and ensures your appreciation goes straight to the person who helped you.
Use in-app tipping when needed.
If you’re using Grab or Gojek and don’t have cash, the built-in tip feature is a quick and secure alternative. Just a few taps, and your appreciation is delivered without any hassle.