Before you get to know where to stay in Bali, it makes sense to dive a bit deeper into what this island is all about. Bali is situated in the middle of Indonesia and is both a province and island. For numerous years now, it is a favorite tourist spot. Surfers love the beaches here, as well as those who want to see the beautiful sites that Bali has to offer.
If you are searching for beaches where you can also enjoy fresh seafood, some of the places to visit are Seminyak, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Canggu. It is indeed a haven that beach bums discovered. Soon enough, photographers, travelers, vloggers, and temple-goers flock to Bali every year.
The Western influence is quite noticeable in this island, which is even dubbed as a “foreigner-friendly” destination. Whether you are searching for yoga classes, restaurants, shopping, or a paradise retreat, you will find everything you need in different areas in Bali.
Be sure to have some Indonesian rupiah, which is the local currency, since businesses cannot charge you in dollars. It is recommended that you carry about 10,000 to 100,000 (approximately $0.70 to $7) notes for your daily expenses.
You should know that the official language here is Indonesian. However, you will also hear Balinese, especially in the countryside, although Indonesian is still mixed in. You will find many people who can speak English in the area, thanks to the sizeable expat population and tourists.
Going around and finding places where you can stay in Bali should be easy. The climate, in general, is warm but it can be rainy as well, especially if you visit in January to April or October to November.
Bali may seem like a small island, but you will certainly have a lot of sites to enjoy. However, you should be aware that traffic here can be very congested, which is why it makes sense to try to go to your destination at an earlier time.
Aside from the mentioned details above, here are quick facts about Bali:
- It is a province with smaller islands namely Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Lembongan.
- If you are invited to eat in a local family home, the proper etiquette is to leave a bit of food on your plate.
- Mounts Batur and Agung on the island are active volcanoes.
- The Hindu celebration, Nyepi, calls for all businesses, including airports to shut down their operations for one day.
- The island has one of the highest concentrations of spas in the world.
When you are ready to go around, it is time to learn the best areas to stay in Bali.
Where to stay in Bali: Best areas
Whether it is your first time or you have been to the island a few times, it is necessary that you know where to sleep in Bali when you are done touring for the day. Planning is crucial and you can include the list of places below to determine where you should stay in Bali:
1. Kuta/Legian, where to stay in Bali for nightlife
If you are looking for the center of mass tourism on the island, you will find it in Kuta and Legian. These areas in Bali are frequently the first places that visitors go the moment they hit the region.
However, you should know that Kuta and Legian are not for everyone. The narrow lanes may have cafes and surf shops, but they usually have motorbikes parked around, along with T-shirt vendors and “massage” offers.
Nevertheless, you will notice how chain hotels and shopping malls such are Beachwalk Shopping Centre, Discovery Mall Bali or Mal Bali Galeria are in this area, especially Kuta.
The allure does not seem to fade while Legian is more appealing to older people. Some would even say that those in Kuta go to Legian after they get married.
Both are equally commercial areas and you will see there are long lines of hotels here, which are typically close to the beach. Most of these accommodation choices are family-friendly.
If you are still searching for a place to stay in Bali, particularly in Kuta or Legian, you will numerous choices ranging from villas to luxury hotels to value options. Prices of accommodation are a bit cheaper in Kuta than in Legian.
However, the area tends to have too much traffic, which may not be great when you are walking around with your kids. Younger people though, especially those who surf and party, will love staying in Kuta.
Kuta is the best place in Bali for nightlife. The area is packed with lots of bars, beach clubs and nightclubs.
Some places of interest include Waterbom Park Kuta, Circus Waterpark, the Ground Zero Monument Bali, Vihara Dharmayana Buddhist Temple, Kuta Theater, Museum Kain, Dream Museum Zone, Hard Rock Cafe, Bali Sea Turtle Society,
This area is one of the best places to stay in Bali if you are looking for surfing, shopping, nightlife, and very affordable accommodation, but it is really touristy and crowded.
If you plan to book online, you will mostly find villas and discounted hotel prices. Nevertheless, if you do not mind splurging, some options include Padma Resort in Legian, The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali, and Bandha Hotel & Suites.
For luxury accommodation yet more affordable, choose Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali or Mamaka by Ovolo.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KUTA – LEGIAN
2. Seminyak, best place to stay in Bali for luxury and upscale nightlife
Seminyak, like Kuta and Legian, is also one of the most popular areas in Bali, particularly for tourists. It is known for its beautiful beaches, which are well-loved because they are fairly quiet and offer the best sunset views.
Seminyak is considered the upmarket beach resort in Bali, so it is where you will see luxury resorts, private villas, and five-star beach clubs.
In Seminyak you can enjoy some of the best beachclubs, including Ku De Ta, Potato Head Beach Club, SugarSand, Tropicola , Oo Beach Club, CoCoon, Mano Beach House and La Plancha.
The main streets and the coastline are mostly crowded but still peaceful most of the time. You will also find most of Bali’s best restaurants in Seminyak, specifically in and around Jalan Laksmana and Kayu Aya, which are a long line of dining streets.
Nightlife is more upscale than in Kuta. Jalan Dhyana Pura, along with Camplung Tanduk, is gay-friendly where you can go to bars that are fun and virtually located side-by-side.
If you are searching for a great place to shop, Seminyak is for you. Several designer boutiques, branded shops, and more can be found in one area alone.
If you plan to spend the night (or nights) here, you will love how it has excellent night and water activities. Seminyak is mostly for wealthy travelers but it also offers options for those on a budget.
If you prefer a beach that is not as crowded as the other places and you want a good nightlife scene without too much noise, it will be one of the best areas in Bali for you.
Some hotels, such as W Bali – Seminyak and The Oberoi are right here, which are all luxury resorts. Meanwhile, if you are on a budget, mid-range and cheaper options are also available.
The best selections for families and those who do not want to splurge are Ramada Encore by Wyndham Bali Seminyak and Aloft Bali Seminyak.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SEMINYAK
- ($$$) W Bali – Seminyak
- ($$) Aloft Bali Seminyak
- ($) CR Tris Rooms Seminyak
3. Canggu, the coolest area to stay in Bali
Canggu is one of the places on the island that locals, surfers, and expats favored for a long time. Things have changed now and there are numerous tourists who travel in and around the area.
This area has grown in popularity in the last years and now is the new hotspot. It has become the destination of choice of digital nomads, expats, influencers, surfers, and tourists looking for the coolest place in Bali.
Here you will find cool cafes, trendy restaurants, hip shops, beach clubs such as La Brisa, Finns, Cafe del Mar or The Lawn, and a growing nightlife scene.
In this part of Bali, you will notice how it is more laidback compared to Kuta and even Seminyak. It has rice fields and beaches, along with numerous restaurants.
The problem with Canggu is that there are limited transportation options here. Therefore, you will need to find your way around the area, although mopeds are preferred. You need to have a proper license to operate mopeds though, which is why many visitors choose bicycles instead.
If you look forward to walking around and experiencing the top restaurants and stores here, the best place to stay is near Jl. Batu Bolong. It intersects with Jl. Batu Mejan and will lead you toward the beach.
Another area is Jl. Pantai Berawa, which has cafes and shops as well but they are more evenly distributed.
Jl. Pantai Pererenan is also a good choice when searching for accommodation, especially if you want a quiet place for resting. It is remote yet peaceful with lots of rice fields surrounding the area.
Canggu has different accommodation options ranging from luxurious to modest. COMO Uma Canggu and Hotel Tugu Bali are among the most expensive hotels in this place.
However, if you want a deluxe yet less expensive hotel, Eastin Ashta Resort Canggu and Citadines Berawa Beach Bali are worth checking out.
For those on a budget, the good news is that Canggu has hotels that go for $20 or less per night. There are hostels and guesthouses in this Bali region where prices range from $8 to $15.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CANGGU
4. Jimbaran, where to stay in Bali for a quiet beach vacation and seafood
If you ask a few locals about where to be in Bali to watch the sunset, most of them will tell you to head to Jimbaran. It is famous for the white sand bay, which is directly southwest of Ngurah Rai International Airport.
Jimbaran has a good mix of resorts and hotels that cater to different ages, groups, preferences, and budgets. Those sites mostly provide beautiful seascapes that you will not forget.
The main strip, Muaya Beach, is where you should go to if you want to try the famous seafood cafes in Jimbaran. The northern part is where Kedonganan is located, which is a fishing village and has beachfront restaurants as well.
Hotspots in Jimbaran include the Bukit peninsula where the Uluwatu temple is right on top of the cliff and gray macaques live. World-class reef and forests surround the area, along with a few hidden beaches in Bali.
However, if your primary goal is to shop and enjoy the nightlife, Jimbaran is not exactly the place to be for you. It is for people who want a secluded getaway involving tropical beaches with a convenient location from the airport, which is only 15 minutes away.
Some hotels are right on the beach, including InterContinental Bali Resort, which is a five-star chain resort. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay is also a favorite of those who want a peaceful and sophisticated place to sleep.
There are also villas, spa estates, and private resorts in this part of Bali, along with midrange and budget hotels. Midrange hotels, such as Anja Jimbaran or the The Open House Jimbaran Bali, are great for families.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BALI IN JIMBARAN
5. Uluwatu, best area to stay in Bali for surfers
The town of Uluwatu is in the South of Bali and is famous for being the favorite hub of many surfers who like to test the challenges of the waters.
Home to some of Bali’s most beautiful beaches, it is also a great place for those who simply want to lay down on the sands or watch the sunset.
If you want to stay in Bali in this area, you will see many hotels with access to secluded beaches. Others are simply near the waters but you can also find hotels located at the top of the cliffs.
It is important that before choosing this place, you should be aware that Uluwatu is fairly isolated. Most other sites will take a long walk to get there and some in which you need to drive. For instance, you may need transportation so you can get to a beach club or a café.
Many hotels are quite expensive but if your budget is $200 at the most, you should check out Bingin, Padang Padang, and Balangan. If you want to be near cafes and a few restaurants, the best choice is Padang Padang.
The three mentioned places are also great if you wish to be near the beaches. Meanwhile, for those who want to have private beaches within their reach, choose Bulgari Resort or The Ungasan Clifftop Resort .
For an absolute splurge, villas are the way to go. You can find accommodation here ranging from $750 to $1,100. Uluwatu also has great hotels and guesthouses under $100 a night, such as Village Bali and The Room Padang-padang.
Guesthouses can start at $15, which is quite affordable for couples and families.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ULUWATU
- ($$$) The Ungasan Clifftop Resort
- ($$) Village Bali
- ($) Cantika Guest House
6. Ubud, where to stay in Bali for history, culture, sperituality and wellness
The rest of the island is filled with a coastal mix of warmth, sun, and beaches. However, if you are searching for a central highland location, Ubud is a recommended spot.
It has cooler temperatures and you can experience the rural countryside where there are rice fields and river valleys.
Aside from feeling that small town vibe, Ubud is also one of the best areas in Bali where you should go if you love culture and history.
There are rows and rows of art shops, galleries, museums, markets, and historic sites, such as the Puri Saren Royal Palace, Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the Ubud Monkey Forest.
Ubud is also a great destination for those interested in meditation and spirituality. Stay in Bali Ubud if you are looking for a yoga or wellness retreat or want to understand more about Bali’s cultural and spiritual roots.
If you want to dine at a world-class restaurant, head to Mozaic Restaurant Gastronomique; otherwise, the Naughty Nuri’s is a great start for a Balinese food experience.
Of course, this part of the island is also surrounded by water where you will immediately witness the undeniably gorgeous vistas, such as around the Ayung River where you can also go rafting.
Ubud has many wonderful areas to explore, which is why you may want to stay here while you are in Bali. Some of the hotels are luxurious, including those with outdoor dip pools. Others have expansive grounds with tiered rice fields while there are also affordable options.
No matter it is that you are looking for, Ubud is a great place to relax with great views wherever you stay for the night.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN UBUD
- ($$$) Mandapa, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- ($$) Bucu View Resort
- ($) Buana Home Stay
7. Nusa Dua, where to stay in Bali for families and honeymooners
If you are in Nusa Dua, you have found the island’s most exclusive resort area. Once you get here, one of the things that you will immediately notice is the collection of numerous five-star international chain hotels.
Most tourists love how the area is secluded and well-designed with tropical gardens, ponds, and fountains that connect luxury accommodation options with leisure complexes.
Nusa Dua with its gorgeous white sand beaches and amazing all-inclusive resorts is a favourite for families and honeymooners.
There are several things that you can do here, including dining at The Bay Bali or watching the Devdan Show perform at the Nusa Dua Theater.
If you are an art lover, visit the Museum Pasifika, which houses one-of-a-kind historical artifacts and artwork from different countries all over the world.
Aside from the beaches, there are serene scenes that nature provides as well, such as watching the sun rise over the bay between Nusa Dua peninsulas. If you want to go shopping, you do not have to leave the area because Bali Collection is located right in the center.
To fully enjoy what this place offers, you may want to look for a hotel that is situated on the beach. Some options are The St. Regis Bali Resort and The Apurva Kempinski Bali.
If privacy is important to you, villas are the most recommended option, where you can find private pools and even personalized services. There are also midrange hotels but you should not expect the same service and facilities like the ones from luxury options.
Families and those on a budget may want to try the cheaper alternatives, such as The Grand Bali Nusa Dua and Hotel Santika Siligita Nusa Dua.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BALI IN NUSA DUA
8. Nusa Lembongan, beautiful beaches, snorkelling and cheap accommodation
If you are still on a hunt for a place to stay in Bali, another Nusa island to check out is Nusa Lembongan. This area is small but it is what many tourists prefer because there are hardly any people wandering about and there are amazing views everywhere.
Nusa Lembongan offers a local island vibe that you will find unique, especially if you have already visited other beaches in Bali.
With its beatiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, caves and reefs, Lembongan is a great place to stay in Bali for snorkelers and divers.
Nusa Lembongan is not as huge as the Lombok and other bigger ones in Indonesia. Therefore, staying here will not confuse you because the hotels and other options are easy to find.
Most people love to stay right on the beach but it is where most local families live. If you want a more quiet area, you may choose a more secluded place.
Moped rentals, surf trips, and snorkeling are often included in the package when you book at a nearby hotel. The good news is that you do not have to spend a fortune here. Some hotels will give you a plus room to sleep in for under $20.
The pricing is not the only thing that you will like if you choose to stay here. Nusa Lembongan may be small but the size allows you to stay near the beach. If you are a backpacker, you can afford a bungalow or an inexpensive villa with easy beach access.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN NUSA LEMBONGAN
9. Sanur, where to stay in Bali for families and older couples
It may not be common for people, including locals, to recommend Sanur as the best areas in Bali for accommodation but it has its unique charm. This town tends to be the underdog but is actually an excellent choice for backpackers and travelers.
Additionally, it is a serene location, which is why it is suggested for families with kids and older couples.
Sanur is situated right on Bali’s east coast and is known as the gateway to the Nusa Archipelago and Komodo Islands. In my opinion Sanur Beach is more beautiful than Kuta Beach and Seminyak and its calm waters make it good for swimming.
This area has a few vacationers here and there, which means that you will see several accommodation options. However, it still has an old Balinese feel to it, especially if you compare it with Canggu or Seminyak.
Local spas, markets, and warungs are all over the Sanur streets. The great thing about these hotspots is that you will not have to deal with crowds.
Hotels are also tucked away from the busy areas and are self-contained. Sanur is indeed a good choice if you want a laid back experience while on the island.
While looking for a place for the night, you have various selections, including combinations of resorts and spas, villas, and luxury hotels.
Sudamala Resort allow you to check in comfortably without paying more. Other posh hotels that most people can afford are Segara Villas and Suites and Prama Sanur Beach Bali.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BALI IN SANUR
- ($$$) Hyatt Regency Bali
- ($$) The Alantara Sanur
- ($) Puri Kesari Guest House
10. Amed/Tulamben, where to stay in Bali for diving
Divers would often go straight to Amed or Tulamben. These two adjacent areas are the ultimate favorite of those who want to go scuba diving.
In Amed you will find some of the most impressive dive sites in Bali. Go diving at a Shipwreck, the USS Liberty wreck at Tulamben or the Japanese Wreck.
However, it is not the only thing you can do while in these towns. Amed and Tulamben offer cafes and yoga studios, along with restaurants and small stores to quench your thirst for spending money on designer clothing.
If you wish to go around the area, it is much easier if you rent a scooter, which is quite inexpensive. However, those with a group can save more if they rent a car. Another option is riding a taxi, but it is expensive so you may want to choose another method.
Staying in these towns is cheap but Amed is much cheaper than Tulamben. Nevertheless, both have great options for backpackers on a budget.
Amed generally has bungalow-style homestays with affordable prices. Some will even grant you a discount if you stay for more than one night. Others include breakfast and private bathrooms in their prices.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BALI IN AMED/TULAMBEN
- ($$) Nalini Resort
- ($) Aquaterrace Amed
- ($) Villa di Amed
11. Lovina/Singaraja, nature, beautiful waterfalls and dolphins
Lovina is a favorite of many families, along with the neighboring town Singaraja. These adjacent areas are great for travelers with kids, but it helps if transportation is readily available.
These places are in North Bali and you will certainly love being here, especially if you do not like touristy sites. Lovina and Singaraja are both away from the busy Seminyak and Kuta areas.
Singaraja means Lion King and is considered the port town of the island’s north. Meanwhile, Lovina is west of Singaraja and you can easily get to Ngurah Rai International Airport in three hours.
These two towns are among the top choices of tourists who want to watch dolphins or explore the North Bali waterfalls.
Once here, some of the accommodations that you can check out include villas situated about a mile from Lovina Beach. You will also find holiday homes in Singaraja and Lovina where you can find useful appliances, such as refrigerators and stovetops.
Of course, if you do not mind spending a ton of money, there are luxury hotels offering panoramic views and villas with infinity swimming pools.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LOVINA – SINGARAJA
- ($$$) The Lovina
- ($$) Lovina Beach Club & Resort
- ($) Hotel Shri Ganesh
12. Denpasar, where to stay in Bali on a budget
If you want to witness the Balinese town type of living, Denpasar is simply the ultimate option. It is where you should stay in Bali if you aim to experience the provincial capital’s offers.
Denpasar is not touristy unlike most places on the island. It is a busy, bustling, multi-cultural, and chaotic city with an horrendous traffic.
On the other hand it offers a lot of authentic local restaurants, markets, shopping malls and cultural events.
It is a good place to learn more about Balinese history. Do not miss the Bali Museum, the impressive Bajra Sandhi Monument, the Sakenan Temple, and the Pura Jagatnatha Temple.
Denpasar has a ton of options for accommodation, whether you want a budget-friendly hotel or a chic boutique. If you are traveling for business, you will also find comfortable places to rest your head. You can also go to historical sites with hotels that are important to Indonesian culture.
This town is for you if you are a backpacker who does not want to pay for expensive hotels. Accommodation typically fits most midrange and budget travelers but business people will also find a few hotels in the area.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BALI IN DENPASAR
13. Gili Islands, great beaches, snorkelling, and diving
Gili Islands have various offers for everyone. If you want to party or dive or simply searching for a quiet place to stay in Bali, there is a Gili Island for you.
Gili Trawangan is best for party people and is considered the most developed of all three islands. It also has a wonderful reputation of being one of the cheapest and safest areas in the world for newbie divers.
Gili Meno, on the other hand, has that honeymoon atmosphere, which is why it is the first choice of many couples. It is the quietest and the smallest, yet it has the best beaches.
Finally, Gili Air is for chilling out away from the noisy places. It is peaceful here with uninterrupted views of the mountains on the northern coast.
If you will stay in Gili Trawangan, you will find numerous choices, including homestays, bungalows, and hostels. Most are quite expensive but you will certainly discover a few affordable options.
For Gili Meno, there are secluded resorts and mid range accommodation. Bungalows and villas are common here as well. Gili Air mostly has comfy bungalows, which are a great option for budget travelers.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN GILI ISLANDS
- ($$$) Pearl of Trawangan
- ($$) Marygio Resor
- ($) Atlas Gili
With several areas to choose from, it is no wonder that Bali is a tourist favorite. From budget accommodations to lavish spaces, you will find your dream destination on the island.
If you are interested in the best areas to stay in Bali, you may also be interested in where to stay in Jakarta
Photos: Shutterstock
Hello, we will be in Bali for 10 days with a 12 and 16 year old. We like shopping, culture, markets. I was thinking of Seminyak and Ubud- are the food places around Seminyak more expensive than in Kuta?. We are not people to spend all day on the beach, so we want other things to do. One small thing I like doing is walking in the back streets where the locals live. I read what you said about Sanur, but wondering if there is still enough shopping/markets/things to do?
Hi Vanessa. Seminyak is a higher-end place than Kuta, but you will find prices in all ranges. Just look for local warungs for cheap food. In terms of shopping, Kuta and Seminyak are good choices. There are some shopping malls, boutiques, and local shops. Forget about walking in the back streets where locals live… Those areas are 100% touristy, and they are not walkable areas. Streets are taken by cars and motorbikes. The traffic is horrendous. On the other hand there is plenty to do in Kuta/Seminyak/Canggu.
With children that age, I would consider Sanur as it is quieter (the crowd there is older), and the beach is better (unless you want to learn to surf).
Ubud is a place where you’ll find a diverse range of experiences, catering to what you’re looking for. From cultural immersion to nature exploration, Ubud has it all.
Hi, this is information is so helpful. I was very much decided on 3 nts Ubud and 8 nts Nusa Dua and now I’m unsure that Nusa dua is right for us. We are 2 adults with a teenage daughter and 8 year old daughter. I liked the idea of a luxury hotel on the beach with the option of walking out to find restaurants and bars in the evening. Is Nusa Dua right for this?
Hi Stephanie. Yes, it is. You can dine in local warungs, restaurants and hotel restaurants. Nusa Dua is not as lively as other areas, but you have enough variety of restaurants and bars to not get bored as a family.
Hello,
Thanks for such an insightful post.
For renting a scooter/motorbike, is an international driving license needed? Would you know if an Indian driver’s license will be accepted?
Best,
Nilay
Hi Nilay. Most rental businesses do not care about it, but if the police control you, you will have to pay a fine. Besides, if you have an accident, your travel insurance will not cover your medical costs, and if you injure someone without a valid license, you may get into trouble. Get your international driving license before travelling.
Hey. Great blog post with good information. My girlfriend and I will be in Bali in the middle of August (15 nights) what would you suggest? I want to have a mix between relaxing at beautiful beaches, exploring the culture and a bit of party. Would you recommend Nusa Penida / Nusa Lembogan or Gili Islands?
Thanks 🙂
Best Regards,
Florian
Hi Florian. Nusa Penida, Nusa Lombogan and Gili Islands are great places to enjoy and relax. Not for nightlife. If you want a mix of everything best is to split your stay in several areas. Uluwatu is great for beaches, Kuta-Seminyak-Canggu are great areas to stay in Bali for nightlife, and Ubud for culture
Great information, thank you.
Just a quick question, what’s your opinion on Kerobokan.
My son and friend are considering a villa there in June.
They are 24, they enjoy nightlife, culture and beaches.
Hi Michael. They will enjoy it as they will be between Canggu and Seminyak, two great places for nightlife. The area is a little bit less crowded than Canggu.
To add – i have 9 nights. Is ubud and canggu worth it? And is Gilli preferable? If so where do you recommend? Thanks so much
I’m travelling solo, love beach, quiet, fitness, yoga, hiking/ White beaches.
Don’t want to travel too much. Thanks so much
Hi Antonia. Your best optinos would be to stay in Jimbaran or Uluwatu for your beach time, and some days in Ubud. Forget Canggu (crowded, party area, very expensive, less than average beach). Ubud is a must!!! Gili Islands are very worth it (snorkel is amazing there) if you can manage to accommodate a few nights there in your itinerary.
This is SO helpful. Thanks so much. I’m going in 2 weeks by myself – solo trip. Female, 30, love fitness, love nature. Love peace. NOt into drinking. Was thinking uluwatu and jimbaran? Maybe Canggu and Ubud? What would you recommend and route? I love white beaches…. many thanks!
Hi!
Thank you for the great post! It’s very helpful.
My boyfriend and I will spend about 10 days in Bali (32 y.o & 25 y.o).
Do you have any suggestion which area is the nearest to the airport?
We will be taking a 25-hour flight, so we would like to spend the first day relaxing, perhaps at a spa or getting a massage.
The next day, we want to move to another area.
Also, it is kind of confusing to me where to start exploring the island.
We are not into the nightlife and would love to see the sunsets and beautiful views/places.
Especially my boyfriend loves to have a quiet place to relax.
Do you have any lists of which areas we should visit for the first and last time?
Many thanks in advance,
Sara
Hi Sara. Kuta and Jimbaran are very close to the airport. Jimbaran is quiet, Kuta is busy. Jimbaran, Uluwatu and Nusa Dua are nice and quiet areas to chill. You can also chill in busy areas if you choose a quiet hotel and enjoy the action when you want to. I would recommend you to stay a few nights in Ubud (and explore from there) and eventually in Gili Islands
Thank you for your response!
Kuta, Jimbaran, Ubud, Uluwatu, and Nusa Island are already on the list.
But now I want to ask about transportation in Bali.
These are our destination in Bali:
Airport -> Kuta-> Seminyak -> Canggu -> Tanah Lot -> Ubud -> Kintamani -> Jimbaran -> Uluwatu -> Nusa Island -> Airport
what kind of transportation is the best for us to choose?
rent a car/motorbike? or Gojek/Grab?
PS. I don’t need a driver, I can ride motorbike and my bf can drive car.
Hi Sara. Transportation from/to airport and long trips (to Ubud) use Grab. To move around rent a motorbike. Forgent about driving with car around Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu area… Traffic is insane.
Very informative. Spending 8 nights in Bali from end of April. We do like scenery and tranquility but we do get bored after a day or two and do enjoy people, a bit of party and just local experience. We’re a married couple with average age of 50. I am flying my wife over to spend some time with me as I am on a 4 month contract in Jakarta. So looking for something romantic with scenery and beaches with close access to nightlife when we feel the need. Accommodation options can be mid range to a little higher. Access to affordable transport if needed but would also like to experience the culture and locals. A lot said so hope you can suggest a couple of options. Ubud definately on my list for two or three days, but then need some direction after this. Thanks I’m advance.
Hi Jonathan. I would stay in Seminyak, an upscale area, with beach, nightlife, and good restaurants. From there you can explore other areas with better beaches (Uluwatu). Affordable Transport? That is horrible in Bali. Download Grab app (or Gojek) and avoid taxi mafia. Ubud is an excellent choice and a place not to miss in your stay in Bali.
Hello
Thank you for the wonderful information regarding Bali. So much to absorb!!!
We are two married 60 year old couples that love to stay in Airbnbs , luxury homes. Love the culture and sites.Not to keen on inappropriate individuals. We have roughly 16 days in February 2024 . Recommendations please for areas to stay !! We usually rent a car to day trip and venture out for activities.
Hi Russ. Split your time between Ubud and a beach area. Nice places for what you are looking for would be Sanur and Nusa Dua.
Great post. We (late 20s) plan to spend 5-7 nights in Bali before continuing to Lombok. We look for beaches, nature and not too busy places. Where would you suggest going to? 🙂
Hi Lukas. The best places for you would be Uluwatu.
Hi. Thanks for all your recommendations. I’m looking for a recommendation for where to go for 2/3 nights in Bali that I have to free in my itinerary.
I’m solo traveling for part of my trip, I have canggu, ulwata, gili t, Ubud and seminyak already in my itinerary. I have three days free after ubud and I’m wondering where is best to go for those few days.
Thank you
Hi Elish. I would go for Amed or Lovina
Hello! Thanks for this post. I am traveling to Bali for 27 days. Initially I want to book the whole stay in Ubud. I’m from Dubai, so I am looking for a more laid back, nature and cultural kind of trip. I also don’t mind to have some night out and relax in the beach. Pls advise if it’s okay to book the whole stay in Ubud or what’s the best option to do
Hi Osh. I would split my time. One week, or a few days, in beach areas and the rest of your time in Ubud. Nice options for you would be Uluwattu, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Dua and Gili Islands. For nights out choose Kuta, Seminyak or Canggu areas You will get a more complete feeling of the island
Hey!
Thankyou so much for the information. Me and my gf (23 and 25 years) will visit Bali this september for 11 nights. We were thinking of staying 4 nights Ubud, 4 nights Canggu and 3 nights somewhere else… But don’t know yet. In Ubud we want to explore Bali, Canggu more for nightlife and shops. Do you have a recommendation for a third area? Maybe nice beaches? Maybe south Bali?
Hi. My first option would be to stay in Gilli Islands for those 3 nights. Uluwattu would be a nice choice as well.
Hello
we are 19years and we will be on BALI in July.
Which places (Beaches 🙂 shall we visit?
Is it easy to travel by bus?
Which trip would you recommend?
Hi Benna. For nice beaches go south to Uluwattu and Nusa Dua, and plan a few days in Gilli Island. Do not rely on buses. Rent a scooter and download Grab app for taxi
Hi, many thanks for the great blog! I will be going to Bali for ten days coming Monday. I am 27, working remotely, and travelling alone. Where would you recommend me to stay? I was thinking of dividing my days between Canggu, Ubud and Seminyak, but perhaps you would recommend something different? Thanks!
Hi Max. Split your time between Canggu (or Seminyak) and Ubud. If you are looking for nightlife and young and dinamic vibe stay most of your time in Canggu – Seminyak area (both are very close) and at least 2 or 3 nights in Ubud. If you are looking for nice beaches and surf Uluwattu is a nice place to stay in Bali.
Thank you so much for this article! I was completely lost on the map of Bali with thousands of hotels and apartments. Your classification made it all much clearer. If I did not read it, I would most likely book something in Kuta and then would suffer all along 🙂 We are coming to Bali with my husband in mid Feb and I am thinking of Jimbaran as it does not sound too crowdy and at the same time not too isolated for the first visit and people who don’t drive bikes. We are both 40 y.o. and don’t seek parties, noise and people. Do you think it would be a wide choice for us? Thank you!
Hi Anna. If your plan is beach and relax, Jimbaran is a good option. You can rent a car, just try to avoid Kuta-Seminyak-Canggu area, and be patient if you drive through Denpasar to visit other areas. Don´t miss Ubud.
Amazing blog! Where do you recommend staying for a 55-year-old mom and two 25-year-old daughters? I like nature and culture (and a great massage). I’m sure they would like great nightlife and beaches.
Hi Bessy. Book some days in Seminyak and some days in Ubud.
Since a great and insightful post! Thanks for sharing.
I’m planning a trip to Bali for 16 days and want a combination of eat, pray, love, shopping and partying. I’m in my late 20s and going with my fiancé. Which areas which you suggest we visit and for how long?
Three of the things we’d definitely like to do is do yoga, climb up Mount Bataur and staying in a bamboo place in Ubud.
Thank you again.
Hi Serisha. For party: Seminyak and Canggu, for beaches and less crowded area: Uluwatu, yoga: everywhere in Bali (but Ubud the best). If you have 16 days, plan a visit of 2 or 3 nights to Gili Islands.
Hi Nomad,
Great post!! Can’t thank you enough for this!!
We will be visiting Bali in the first week of March for 6 nights with 4 adults and 3 kids. Will be staying in Ubud for 3 nights and would like to go to the beaches and water activities for the remaining 3 days. Would you be kind enough to suggest a place with clean beaches? I was thinking of Nusa Penida Island or Uluwatu, any comments on it or any other suggestions, please? To note, we are vegetarians, not the bar and nightlife kind of group.
Hi Arjun. Nusa Penida is great for families with kids. Other interesting places in Bali for families are Sanur and Nusa Dua. Uluwatu has great beaches but waters are not always calm for kids.
Hi, my husband and I will be visiting family in Oz (after 10 years not being home) and would like to stopover in Bali for a little quiet time at the beach. We are in the over 50’s, love restaurants but a little less fond of lots of crowds, noise and children. Can you recommend a suitable area please? I have been researching and feel it could be: Jimbaran, Sanur or Amed. What do you think? Thanks
Hi Nicole. I would suggest Sanur, Nusa Dua or even Nusa Penida. Jimbaran is not a bad option.
Hi Nomad,
Brilliant blog!
I was wondering if you could recommend the best places for a single person going to Bali for 4 weeks, I have Canggu pinned in for the final week and will probably fit in Ubud somewhere to get the culture out of the way but I am generally really looking for the partying aspect and meeting people as I am on my own. Along with the crystal waters and clean beaches part with maybe a bit of yoga. Could you recommend the best three places for that? I’m thinking a week in each to get it all in! Also you said its pretty easy to hire a moped so I could get one in the three places i would choose.
Would really appreciate any advice
Cass
Hi Cass. Ubud, for nature and yoga, Canggu and Seminyak, for nightlife (also a wide offer of yoga studios), and Uluwatu for beaches.
Hi there! What a great post!
We will be visiting Bali in April (as our friends have told us it’s the best season to visit) for 8 days. We are a late 30s couple so we want to enjoy nice hotels with amenities, nice but not pretentious restaurants, bars on the sand, but also drive around, swim in nice beaches (As we come from Greece) and explore.
Which areas would you recommend? We were thinking 4 days in Ubud and another 4 somewhere by the coast?
Also my boyfriend drives a motorbike in Greece so would you recommend it as a transportation mean?
Many thanks,
Mina
Hi Mina. If you are coming from Greece Bali beaches will really dissapoint you. Best ones are in Uluwatu area. Nusa Dua has also acceptable beaches with more calm waters. Motorbike is a must to move around.
Hi
Great tips…we are going to Bali for 2 weeks in June and will have a week at Padma resort Ubud to experience the rainforest and nature. We fancy a week on the coast and like the sound of Nusa Dua. Are there any of the luxury hotels that you think might be good for an older couple who enjoy a quieter location with lush tropical gardens.
Thanks Richard
Hi Richard. The St. Regis and The Apurva Kempinsky will not dissapoint you.
Help. We’ve booked to stay in Candidasa and it doesn’t feature at all on your list. What do you know about it? Thanks
Hi Summer. I have never been there (I plan to visit that area and stay in Amed a few days in my next trip to Bali next July). Expect a very quiet area, nice nature, cristal clear waters but so so beaches (in general Bali beaches are less than average compared to other South East Asia destinantions). In the Eastern coast of Bali beaches are often a bit rocky.
Hi! I am travelling to Bali in April but only for 2-3 nights as I will continue my journey to Flores island. I would love to stay in Ubud because of the nature and culture but would also like to have a day trip to other cultural attractions in Bali. How far is it to travel from Ubud to other places as for a day trip? Is it easy to travel around by bicycle in Ubud?
Hi Nampeung. Most people rent a motorbike, but a bicycle is also an option. Take in mind that traffic is heavy in the touristy areas in Bali (also in many areas in Ubud). Ubud is well located to visit the main sights but it takes time to drive in Bali due to traffic. One you are there book a day trip in any of the local travel agencies or negotiate with a personal driver.
Hi there, really great post. We’re going to Bali for a week in early March and are planning to stay in Ubud for 3 nights and then head to the beach. Where would you suggest is best at that time of year? We were looking at Jimbaran/Kedonganan but I read that a lot of rubbish can wash up there during storms at that time of year? Also, is there a lot of noise from the airport being so near? We just want a lovely beach resort with great seafood. Thanks for your help!
Hi Harriet. Yes, during rainy season is not rare that beaches are plenty of rubbish. In Jimbaran noises from planes are not an issue. You may hear from time to time planes landing but nothing really annoying. In Kedonganan it could be annoying for certain people.
Hello. We want to visit Bali in August. We will be there for 5nights. It will be 6 of us. We are more interested in the night life and water activities. We are adrenaline junkies.
Hi Mimo. Your best choices would be Kuta, Semminyak or Canggu. If I had to choose one of these three areas I would go for Semminyak.
Great post, thank you 🙂 We are travelling to Bali next year to elope. Is there anywhere in particular you would recommend? We would like a secluded beach or cliff top. Thanks!
Hi Iona. Secluded beaches and cliff tops… Uluwatu is for you. Check also Amed and Tulamben
Hi,
Thanks for the nice read!! Very helpful!
We’re ending our trip around the world in Bali, where we’re planning to stay around 1,5 months starting from the beginning of May. We have two young (1 and 3 years old) kids, so we would like to stay at around 4 peaceful places around Bali and travel from there. We know the full moon parties without the kids;) Which cities/areas do you recommend?
Thanks!! Mees
Hi Mees. Sanur is the best places to stay in Bali for families. You could consider Uluwatu as well. I would stay in Ubud at least a couple of weeks.
Hi,
I’m planning to go to Bali for about 2 weeks in April as a part of a roundtrip. I’ll be travelling alone with my backpack and want to enjoy as much of the island as possible. Where do you think I should stay?
Best regards
Alexander
Hi Alexander. Ubud is the place you should not miss in Bali. Stay there for some days. Then depends on what you are looking for: Semminyak – Canngu (expensive, lots of tourists, lots of restaurants and bars, nightlife, fun, less than average beaches but great for surfing), Uluwattu calm, nice beaches but rough waters, Sanur just ok beaches with calm waters, Lovina and Amed great for scuva diving and chill lifestyle, and North to get away from the tourist crowds. Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida are nice for a few days. I recommend you a trip to Gilli Islands (3 or 4 days)
Great post. I’m heading to Bali for 4 months and am unsure of where to base myself especially as I hear areas like canggu are getting much more expensive for rent. So this was helpful!
Hi Lisa. Indeed. Canggu is getting more and more expensive. You may find better prices in nearby areas such as Pererenan.
Hi. Just curious, why leaving some food on your plate when invited to a local home?
I never heard about this before.
Anyway, it’s a good post 👍
Hi Angie. To let your host know you had enough to eat.