Bali As Hollywood’s Favorite Paradise: Iconic Films Shot in Indonesia’s Most Popular Island


Bali has long been known as one of the world’s most beautiful islands, with its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and gorgeous natural scenery making it a popular destination for tourists from around the globe. However, Bali is not just a paradise for holiday-makers; it has also become a favorite destination for filmmakers looking for breathtaking locations to set their iconic movies.

The island’s picturesque landscapes have provided the backdrop for some of Hollywood’s most beloved films. It has become an inspiration for filmmakers to produce stunning and awe-inspiring works of art that showcase the beauty of Bali’s nature and culture.

One of the most iconic movies shot in Bali is the 2010 film Eat Pray Love, based on the best-selling memoir of the same name written by Elizabeth Gilbert. The movie features Julia Roberts as the protagonist who finds love, spirituality, and personal growth in Bali. The film was shot on location in Ubud, Ubud Palace, and the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, showcasing the island’s scenic beauty and culture.

Another movie that took advantage of Bali’s sweeping vistas was the 2016 science-fiction film, Star Trek Beyond. The movie was shot in Candidasa, a small coastal town in Bali, and featured stunning scenes of mountains and sea, which provided the perfect setting for the epic interstellar battles fought by the Starship Enterprise.

Bali has also featured in other popular movies such as The Ring Two (2005), South Pacific (1958), and The Beach (2000) starring Leonardo DiCaprio that was mostly shot in Maya Bay on the nearby island of Phi Phi Leh, Thailand, but also shots from Bali.

The Bali tourism industry has benefited greatly from Hollywood’s adoration. The island’s natural beauty has been shared with a global audience and created a surge of visitors to the island, drawn by the island’s beauty and desire to experience it in person. Bali has become one of Indonesia’s most popular destinations, and the government has invested heavily in the tourism industry, promoting it as a must-visit destination.

In conclusion, Bali’s emergence as one of Hollywood’s favorite locations is no coincidence; the island is an exotic and stunning paradise that provides filmmakers with a perfect backdrop for their films. Bali’s natural beauty and cultural richness will continue to make it a favorite location for filmmakers worldwide. For those that have not yet visited the island, these movies only give a glimpse of what Bali has to offer, and there is no substitute for experiencing the island’s breathtaking beauty in person.