Many travelers often ask, “Do you tip in Bali?” The short answer is yes, but it’s not mandatory. Tipping here is more about appreciation than obligation. Locals don’t expect large tips, but a small gesture for good service is always appreciated.
It can make a real difference for many local workers who depend on tourism for their livelihood. This guide will help you understand Bali tipping etiquette, when to tip, how much to give, and who to tip. Here’s your complete guide to tipping in Bali in 2025!
Do You Really Need Tipping in Bali?
Tipping in Bali isn’t compulsory, but it’s a kind way to show gratitude for excellent service. Most hotels and restaurants include a 10% service charge and 11% government tax in the bill, especially at luxury resorts, fine-dining venues, or honeymoon destinations in Bali.
At smaller restaurants, local cafés, or budget villas in Bali, the total tax and service charge is often around 15%, or sometimes not included at all. In that case, adding a small tip for good service is always a nice touch.
Locals see tipping as a form of kindness and sharing good fortune. Even a small amount can mean a lot, especially to workers in family-run businesses or small establishments.
Who to Give Tipping in Bali To
Knowing who to give tips to in Bali can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a simple guide:
- For Restaurant Staff
Many local restaurants or family-run restaurants don’t charge any service fees. Staff usually earn modest monthly wages (around IDR 3–4 million), so leaving a small tip shows genuine appreciation for their hard work.
- Drivers and Tour Guides
Giving a tip to your driver is common if they offer friendly, reliable service or go the extra mile. Even a small change or rounding up the fare is appreciated by taxi or online drivers.
- Hotel Staff
Many hotel staff on this island are mostly daily workers, paid per shift. Leaving a tip of IDR 20,000–50,000 per day can help cover their meals and daily needs, especially if their service makes your stay more comfortable.
- Spa Therapists
Giving a tip in Bali massage is a thoughtful way to say thank you for a relaxing treatment. Around IDR 20,000–50,000 per therapist is appreciated. Some spas also sell skincare products, buying one can help your therapist earn extra bonuses.
- Private Villas
If you’re staying in a private villa, it’s common to leave one envelope of cash at the end of your stay for all staff to share. This gesture is especially meaningful, as many villa employees are daily workers who rely on such tips for extra income.
How Much is Appropriate for Tipping in Bali
There are no strict rules for tipping in Bali, but here’s a general guideline that most travelers follow.
- Restaurants
A 5–10% tip is genuinely appreciated if the service charge isn’t already included in your bill. It’s a small way to thank the staff for their attentive service and warm hospitality.
- Private Drivers or Guides
Giving between IDR 50,000–150,000 per day is a good amount if they provide excellent service, share helpful information, or go beyond expectations during your trip in Bali.
- Massage or Spa
Tipping around IDR 20,000–50,000 per therapist is thoughtful and well-received. You can give more, such as IDR 100,000, especially for exceptional service, but always consider your total spending. For example, if your massage costs IDR 200,000, tipping half of that amount might make the therapist feel uncomfortable, even if your intention is kind.
- Hotel or Villa Staff
Leaving IDR 20,000–50,000 per day or preparing one envelope at the end of your stay is a wonderful gesture, particularly if you’re staying in a luxury hotel in Seminyak or a villa in Canggu. This shows appreciation for the behind-the-scenes team that keeps your stay seamless and comfortable.
- Street Vendors or Small Cafes
Rounding up your bill or leaving a small change is perfectly fine. Locals often tip around IDR 5,000, which is still considered generous. However, if you’re visiting a more upscale or trendy place, it’s polite to tip at least IDR 20,000.
Remember, the value of trinkgeld Bali (the German word for “tips”) is not about the amount, but the intention. A warm smile and a thank-you mean just as much as cash, so don’t forget always to say thank you to everyone who helps with your Bali activities. It feels amazing.
Tipping in Bali: Better with Cash or Digital Payment?
Although this island is becoming more digital, tipping in Bali is still best done in cash. Many small businesses and service workers prefer it since it’s easier to share among staff.
Before heading out, prepare small denominations of rupiah, such as IDR 10,000 or 20,000 it will come in handy throughout the day. Some larger restaurants and hotels may accept tips by card, but this isn’t common.
The most frequent form of digital tipping happens through online taxis like Gojek and Grab, where a pop-up will appear asking if you’d like to leave a tip. You can choose to add one or skip it, it’s completely optional.
If you want to ensure your tip in Bali goes directly to the person who served you, cash remains the most genuine and personal option.
Common Mistakes Tourists Make with Tipping in Bali
Even with good intentions, tourists sometimes make small mistakes when giving tips in Bali. Understanding these details helps you show respect for local customs while expressing sincere appreciation. Here are a few things to avoid:
1. Tipping in foreign currency
Always tip in Indonesian Rupiah, as the local currency. Foreign coins and small bills can’t be exchanged easily, and hotel workers often end up keeping them as souvenirs because exchange fees are too high.
2. Leaving too large a tip at small places
Locals may feel uncomfortable receiving big tips, and sometimes they’ll politely refuse if it feels excessive. It’s best to give a tip that matches the scale of the place, smaller tips for local cafés and warungs, and slightly higher for resorts or fine dining venues.
3. Forgetting the service charge
Always check your restaurant bill first. Many hotels and restaurants already include a 10% service charge and 11% government tax. If that’s the case, additional tipping isn’t required unless you feel the service was exceptional.
4. Tipping only at luxury spots
Don’t limit your tipping to upscale restaurants or resorts. Everyday workers such as drivers, spa therapists, and small café staff also appreciate a simple gesture of gratitude. Luxury places often include service charges, but local businesses rely more on personal tips.
Final Thoughts on Tipping in Bali for Travelers
Overall, tipping in Bali is not mandatory, but it’s always appreciated. A few small rupiah notes can go a long way in supporting the people who make your trip special, from drivers to spa therapists and villa staff.
For those seeking genuine Balinese hospitality, Ini Vie Hospitality stands among the best in Bali, offering heartfelt service across villas, resorts, restaurants, and spas. Discover their collection and let their team show you what true local warmth feels like during your next stay.
