Bali Best Areas to Stay and Top Hotels
Bali is what came out of a brainstorming session between the Vacation Gods and the Epic Destinations Gods. This magical Indonesian island has something for everyone: lush rice fields, amazing culture, Michelin star restaurants, mysterious abandoned airplanes, cool beach clubs, ancient temples, hip taco places, stunning waterfalls, a surfing scene, donuts, majestic volcanos…you get the point! The only downside to this random-vacation-dreams-medley island? Figuring out the best area to stay in Bali can become a major headache.
Ready for some insider tips on Bali best areas to stay?
Having spent months exploring Bali from top to bottom, we've created this guide to help you find the best area of Bali to stay in and which hotels not to miss out on. Whether you're a budget-minded traveler, a first-time visitor, or a returning Bali fan looking for a romantic getaway, this guide will be your essential roadmap.
Best Hotels in Bali: Quick Picks
Super short on time and just looking for the names of some of the best hotels in Bali, where you are guaranteed to have an amazing time? Nothing to worry about, we’ve got you covered!
Here are four of the best hotels in Bali, which happen to be some of our all-around favorites. Each is located in one of the top recommended areas in Bali to stay:
If these fall outside your budget or you are looking for a hotel in a specific area, keep scrolling down. You will find plenty of alternative accommodation options where to stay in Bali, catering to all budgets and travel styles, organized by area for stress-free planning.
Bali Best Areas to Stay
“Where to stay in Bali?” is the million-dollar question that doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. With so much diversity crammed into a single island, the place where you decide to stay can make or break your trip. Bali caters to every style of traveler; however, what excites one traveler might overwhelm another. Therefore, finding the best area of Bali to stay in based on your preferences is key to avoiding a vacation mismatch.
Depending on your expectations and the length of your stay, we recommend splitting your Bali itinerary and basing yourself in at least a couple of different areas for a well rounded experience.
Below, we have listed what we believe are the four best areas in Bali to stay in, along with their star villages and towns, nearby top attractions, and the best accommodations from budget to luxury, to help you decide the perfect match for you.
Best Places to Stay in South Bali
The south is the most popular place to stay in Bali for those looking for a vibrant nightlife, long days at the beach, an amazing food scene, networking opportunities, and learning how to surf, all while still being able to visit iconic temples in between. That being said, don’t let the energetic description of this area scare you if you are looking for where to stay in Bali with family, as you will find here Nusa Dua, which is one of the best locations on the island for families with kids.
The Bali airport is located in the south, making this a strategic stop at least for your first night on the island. However, bear in mind that this is also the most crowded and expensive area of the island.
Find your home away from home among the best places to stay in South Bali:
Uluwatu
Main attractions in Uluwatu: Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu); Karang Boma Cliff; Kecak Fire Dance Performances; Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park; Beach Clubs; Nice Beaches & Surf Spots.
Craving dramatic cliffs, epic sunsets, and world-class surfing? Then Uluwatu is the best area of Bali to stay. It offers the ultimate coastal relaxation experience with a cultural punch, not to mention monkeys – oh so many monkeys! Located in the far South of Bali, this trendy destination, though more upscale than other beach areas, maintains a surprisingly laid-back vibe, feeling less hectic than places like Canggu.
Uluwatu is considered one of the best places to stay in Bali for first-timers, young couples, and singles seeking iconic beach clubs, but also for any ocean lover looking for a wide range of nearby beaches, and a luxury resort or villa experience.
Here are some of the best accommodations where to stay in Uluwatu:
​Average driving time…
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From Uluwatu to Bali Airport: 40 minutes.
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From Uluwatu to Sanur Port: 1 hour 10 minutes.
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From Uluwatu to Ubud: 2 hours.
No matter which you decide is the best area to stay in Bali for you, renting a scooter is highly recommended if you want to explore the island. Using apps like Grab makes ride-hailing quite easy and affordable, but it has its limitations, such as not being available everywhere on the island.
Nusa Dua
Main attractions in Nusa Dua: Safe & Clean White Sand Beaches; Waterblow; Golf Courses; Luxury Resorts & Facilities; Watersports.
Nusa Dua is home to a gated community featuring some of the best resorts in Bali, making it ideal for those seeking the ultimate luxury escape in an exclusive, high-end environment. With top spa experiences, golf courses, white sand beaches, and various watersports, it's one of the most quiet places to stay in Bali, far from the crowds and main hubs.
If budget is not a concern and you are looking for the best place to stay in Bali for families, Nusa Dua might be ideal due to its overall safety, calm beaches (with no big waves), relaxing environment, all-inclusive packages, and facilities to entertain the whole family. It is also considered one of the best areas to stay in Bali for couples on their honeymoon, after all such a special occasion deserves some serious pampering.
Nusa Dua may not be the best place to stay in Bali for first timers seeking cultural immersion or a central base to explore the island. Consider combining your stay with another area to experience the different sides of Bali.
Here are some of the best accommodations where to stay in Nusa Dua:
​Average driving time…
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From Nusa Dua to Bali Airport: 25 minutes.
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From Nusa Dua to Sanur Port: 50 minutes.
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From Nusa Dua to Ubud: 1 hour 30 minutes.
Seminyak
Main attractions in Seminyak: Sandy Beaches; Beach Clubs; Exciting Food Scene; Beginner Surf Lessons.
Seminyak is one of the best places to stay in South Bali because it offers chill vibes with a touch of glam and amazing (but not overpowering) nightlife. Its premium beach location on the west coast of Bali provides proximity to the airport and easy access to other areas, making day trips to temples like Tanah Lot or neighboring islands like Nusa Penida easy. Spend your days lounging on the beach, nights at trendy restaurants, and indulge in shopping sprees at hip boutiques.
If your main goal is to spend your entire stay in Bali enjoying the beach, be aware that Seminyak beaches are not as beautiful as those in Uluwatu or as pristine as those in Nusa Dua.
If you are wondering where to stay in Bali to find the dream villa you have been fantasizing about forever, without breaking the bank, Seminyak is the place for you. This area also offers a city-like atmosphere with a fantastic international food scene, making it the best place to stay in Bali for first timers who might be a bit wary of a possible cultural shock. There is nothing wrong with taking baby steps (by the beach, cocktail in hand).
Here are some of the best accommodations where to stay in Seminyak:
​Average driving time…
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From Seminyak to Bali Airport: 25 minutes.
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From Seminyak to Sanur Port: 50 minutes.
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From Seminyak to Uluwatu: 1 hour.
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From Seminyak to Ubud: 1 hour 30 minutes.
Canggu
Main attractions in Canggu: Tanah Lot Temple; Co-Working Spaces; Yoga Studios & Wellness Retreats; Strong Surf Scene; Beach Clubs.
Canggu was once a small, laid-back surfer's paradise, but now it's a thriving digital nomad hub, becoming the most popular place to stay in Bali for remote workers from all over the world. They are drawn in by the unique co-working spaces, awesome waves at Echo Beach, instagram-perfect smoothie bowls, and wellness retreats.
Travelers come to Canggu mainly for the lifestyle and social aspect that it promotes. The black sand beaches from Canggu are not the most beautiful in Bali nor are they good to swim in, but the amazing beach clubs make up for it.
This is the best area of Bali to stay for those looking to meet other digital nomads and travelers, enjoy sunsets at Batu Bolong Beach, and explore trendy cafes. However keep in mind that Canggu sacrifices cultural immersion for a more kekinian (modern Indonesian) experience with an international feel and often a higher price tag. For a peaceful atmosphere and an authentic Balinese experience, consider the central and eastern parts of the island.
Both the roads and streets in Canggu can feel crowded. If you decide to drive in the area, please be cautious and prepared to test your patience.
Here are some of the best accommodations where to stay in Canggu:
​Average driving time…
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From Canggu to Bali Airport: 1 hour.
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From Canggu to Sanur Port: 1 hour.
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From Canggu to Uluwatu: 2 hours.
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From Canggu to Ubud: 1 hour 20 minutes.
Best Places to Stay in Central Bali
The center of the island is not only one of Bali’s best areas to stay, but also embodies what people envision when they think of Bali: mesmerizing waterfalls, yoga retreats, the Tegallalang rice terraces, temples, and an authentic Balinese experience. This landlocked region offers limited nightlife compared to the coast, making it perfect for those seeking quiet places to stay in Bali.
Central Bali is the best area to stay in Bali if you are looking for a deep dive into Balinese traditions, spiritual exploration, or a nature-focused retreat. Discover your perfect stay in Central Bali here:
Ubud
Main attractions in Ubud: Ubud Palace; Saraswati Temple of Lotus; Campuhan Ridge Walk; Tegallalang Rice Terraces; Monkey Forest; Ubud Market; Pura Tirta Empul; Nearby Waterfalls ( Suwat, Tibumana, Tegenungan & Kanto Lampo).
Ubud is the most well known town in Central Bali and a must visit on any Bali itinerary. Situated up in the hills, it is the best area to stay in Bali if you are looking to learn more about Balinese culture, be surrounded by nature, and experience a spiritual scene. Choose your accommodation either in the vibrant town center, with its bustling markets and diverse food scene (dear vegetarians and vegans, you will find happiness here), or further away from the center, where you will have plenty of accommodations among rice fields, or spiritual retreats from which to choose from.
If you don’t have a scooter, make sure your hotel offers a free shuttle bus to the town center, as restaurants, supermarkets, souvenir shops and other services are quite limited outside of this area.
Ubud and its surrounding area is the most popular place to stay in Bali for adventurers, couples, yogis, and families with older children. Its central location is perfect for exploring the middle of the island, and even some highlights of the north or east during a day trip. Chase waterfalls, visit unique temples, and stroll through the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces.
Ubud is also a fantastic place to join a Balinese Cooking Class. Trust us, you will want to cook rendang when you get back home. Click here for a great Cooking Class in Ubud*.
Here are some of the best accommodations where to stay in Ubud:
​Average driving time…
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From Ubud to Bali Airport: 1 hour 30 minutes.
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From Ubud to Padang Bai Port: 1 hour 15 minutes.
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From Ubud to Seminyak: 1 hour 30 minutes.
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From Ubud to Uluwatu: 2 hours.
Best Places to Stay in East Bali
East Bali is an off the beaten path tranquil escape, perfect for relaxation, with stunning black sand beaches and dramatic volcano landscapes. Here, you can experience the essence of old Bali. The east is one of the most unique places to stay in Bali, which we absolutely adore and once called home for a few months.
East Bali boasts some of the best diving spots in Bali, and great freediving courses. If you are interested in exploring the underwater world, this is the place to be.
This area remains outside the typical Bali route of most travelers due to its remoteness. With limited public transportation, restaurants, and services available, it is often excluded from short-stay itineraries, even though it probably is the cheapest area to stay in Bali. That being said, if you have the time, pay the east a visit, you won’t regret it. Here are our top favorite villages where to stay in East Bali:
Amed
Main attractions in Amed: Mount Agung Viewpoints; Pura Lempuyang; Lahangan Sweet; Tirta Gangga Water Palace; Diving and Snorkeling Spots; USAT Liberty Shipwreck; Sea Salt Farm; Endless Rice Terraces; Sunset Points.
Looking for quiet places to stay in Bali? Let us introduce you to Amed, a fishing village with thick black sand beaches, as well as white sand beaches, calm seas, and epic sunrises over Mount Agung. Here, time slows down, making it the best area of Bali to stay for those looking to relax by the beach or explore the island’s underwater world. Oh yes! Amed is all about diving and snorkeling, boasting beautiful coral reefs, plenty of colorful fish, turtles, and even an underwater shipwreck to explore.
The USAT Liberty is a relic from World War 2. The ship was hit by a Japanese torpedo and beached in Tulamben until Mount Agung erupted in the 1960s, causing it to slide into the water and come to rest on the ocean floor.
Despite not being the most well-connected area of the island, Amed offers a wide range of accommodations and an increasing number of fantastic restaurants, from local warungs serving Indonesian cuisine to international options. This makes it the cheapest place to stay in Bali with such an incredible range of offerings.
Here are some of the best accommodations where to stay in Amed:
​Average driving time…
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From Amed to Bali Airport: 3 hours.
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From Amed to Padang Bai Port: 1 hour 30 minutes.
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From Amed to Ubud: 2 hours 30 minutes.
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From Amed to Uluwatu: 3 hours 30 minutes.
Sidemen
Main attractions in Sidemen: Ujung Water Palace; Silverwork Artisans; Mount Agung Viewpoints; Epic Bamboo Accommodations; Waterfalls (Gembleng and Tukad Cepung); Balinese Authentic Experience; Endless Rice Fields.
Skip the crowds and stay in Sidemen, where rural charm meets the Pinterest-worthy Bali bamboo houses that populate so many vision boards across the globe. This is one of the best locations to stay in Bali, offering a glimpse into the island's soul. Welcomed by the friendliest locals, village life will lull you into a peaceful state surrounded by lush rice terraces and the majestic backdrop of Mount Agung, away from the mainstream touristy Bali, and all for an affordable price.
Sidemen is one of the best areas in Bali to stay for those seeking an authentic Balinese experience and the chance to reconnect with nature. Enjoy long hikes and visit waterfalls that you will find hard to believe are not completely packed with people.
Here are some of the best accommodations where to stay in Sidemen:
​Average driving time…
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From Sidemen to Bali Airport: 1 hour 30 minutes.
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From Sidemen to Padang Bai Port: 50 minutes.
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From Sidemen to Ubud: 1 hour 20 minutes.
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From Sidemen to Uluwatu: 2 hours 50 minutes.
Best Places to Stay in North Bali
North Bali offers a more secluded, less touristy experience with stunning volcanic landscapes. This area is often visited on day tours from Ubud, but if you decide to stay overnight you will get the best of both worlds: the mountains and the sea. From the most majestic sunrise from up in the mountains, to exploring a black sand beach, and taking a cruise to watch playful dolphins, the North of Bali is one of the most unique places to stay in Bali.
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The infrastructure is less developed in North Bali, with fewer restaurants, shops, and services. It might not be the best area of Bali to stay for a long holiday, but no doubt it is worth considering for a chunk of your time on the island.
Here are our favorite villages where to stay in North Bali:
Munduk
Main attractions in Munduk: Chase Waterfalls (Banyumala Twin and Banyu Wana Amertha are our favorites); Rice Fields Hike; Tamblingan Lake and Buyan Lake; Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan; Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple; Handara Gate; Coffee Plantations.
Munduk is one of the most romantic places to stay in Bali, offering a refreshingly different experience from the rest of the island. The cool mountain air and low clouds drifting through the village early in the morning make you forget, for a split second, that you are in Bali. Munduk is an off the beaten path, unique place to stay in Bali, which offers lush rice terraces, some of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island, coffee plantations, and a slow-paced rural experience.
Choose one of the beautiful accommodations in the area that allow full immersion into the local nature, and discover why this is considered one of the best areas to stay in Bali for couples.
Munduk is quite a humid and remote village, with nothing nearby. It might not be the best area of Bali to stay for extended periods of time. Also, ask your accommodation beforehand if they have a scooter to rent, as there are not many quality rental places in the North of Bali.
Here are some of the best accommodations where to stay in Munduk:
​Average driving time…
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From Munduk to Bali Airport: 2 hours 45 minutes.
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From Munduk to Padang Bai Port: 3 hours.
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From Munduk to Ubud: 1 hour 50 minutes.
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From Munduk to Uluwatu: 3 hours 30 minutes.
Lovina
Main attractions in Lovina: Dolphin Watching; Black Sand Beaches; Banjar Hot Springs; Brahmavihara Arama Buddhist Monastery; Nearby Waterfalls (Git Git, Aling Aling and Sekumpul are Must Visit).
Swap the fancy beach clubs for chill beachfront cafes, and the crowds for dolphins. Yes, Lovina’s appeal lies not only in its laid-back atmosphere, black volcanic sand beaches, and calm waters, but also in being a great place for dolphin watching. This is one the most quiet places to stay in Bali, perfect for anyone seeking a tranquil escape to read a book and gaze at the sea.
Head out on a sunrise boat trip for a good chance of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat, or join one of the many day trips available to nearby waterfalls, temples or Bali Barat National Park. This is the best area to stay in Bali for families who don’t mind traveling a little further for a unique set of experiences in a fantastic natural setting.
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Lovina is not the place we would suggest as a direct budget alternative to the southern beaches, nor as a cultural and peaceful substitute for East Bali. Lovina is more of a sleepy town and less of a peaceful place in essence.
Here are some of the best accommodations where to stay in Lovina:
​Average driving time…
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From Lovina to Bali Airport: 3 hours.
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From Lovina to Padang Bai Port: 3 hours 15 minutes.
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From Lovina to Ubud: 2 hours 20 minutes.
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From Lovina to Uluwatu: 4 hours.
Is the location you want to visit in Bali not on this list? Find our accommodation suggestions for other areas we visited in Bali, but didn’t make it to this list, in the FAQ.
Bali Stay FAQ
How Many Days in Bali?
Bali has a lot to offer, and you can easily spend weeks exploring the island from north to south. The number of days you need to put aside for your Bali vacation will depend on what you are looking to experience during your time on the island. Whether you seek pure relaxation by the beach or want to visit as many waterfalls and temples as possible, we recommend a minimum of 10 days to properly visit at least two areas of the island.
Where To Stay In Bali For A Week?
If you only have seven days to explore Bali and it is your first time here, we suggest splitting your time between two accommodations to avoid wasting time with check ins and outs. The best areas in Bali to stay during a seven day itinerary are: 3 Days in the south (Uluwatu or Seminyak) and 4 days in Ubud (with a one day trip to the north and one day trip to the east).
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What is Better: Ubud or Canggu?
As you could read in the area breakdown, these two areas are as opposite as they can possibly be. Ubud will provide you with a more spiritual and authentic Balinese experience, surrounded by nature, while Canggu is a surfers’ paradise and digital nomad hub, great for networking and surfing. If it is your first time in Bali and you need to choose between Ubud or Canggu as the place where to stay, we would suggest Ubud.
What are the Best Places to Stay in Bali on a Budget?
Bali, while not the cheapest Indonesian island, is generally speaking still quite affordable for tourists, with most areas offering budget alternatives. That being said, the overall best places to stay in Bali on a budget are the quieter, traditional areas of North and East Bali. Nevertheless, don't be discouraged by the south's reputation for higher prices. Places like Kuta and Sanur provide plenty of budget accommodations.
What is the Best Place to Stay in Bali for First Timers?
Where to stay in Bali will always depend on the amount of time you have available and what kind of traveler you are. However, for a first time visitor, we would probably recommend a place like Seminyak or Uluwatu to cover and explore the southern area, and Ubud, which, thanks to its central location, allows you to easily take day trips to the northern and eastern sides of the island.
What is the Best Place to Stay in Bali for a Solo Traveler?
Bali is a fantastic place for solo travelers to explore. Overall, any area of Bali is safe for solo travelers, but if you are looking for a place where you can easily meet other travelers, Canggu and Uluwatu might be ideal. If you are a yoga enthusiast, add Ubud to your list as well, as there are plenty of yoga retreats and daily classes where you can meet other people.
What is the Best Area to Stay in Bali for Families?
Most areas of the island are suited for families, so create your Bali itinerary mainly around your interests. That being said, areas like Nusa Dua, Lovina, and Sanur have calm beaches away from the surfing zones, perfect for swimming and relaxing on the sand. Ubud is also a great alternative, but due to its cultural and spiritual essence, and its proximity to waterfalls and other adventure hikes, it is more suited for families with older children.
What are the Most Romantic Places to Stay in Bali?
This will depend a bit on what you consider to be romantic. Bali offers the most amazing variety of accommodations we have ever come across, suited for all tastes. If you are looking for the best areas to stay in Bali for couples, which provide the ultimate resort pampering experience, consider staying in Nusa Dua or Seminyak. For a bamboo house fantasy, choose Sidemen; and to be surrounded by nature, pick Munduk or the outskirts of Ubud.
Here are a few of the most romantic places to stay in Bali in our opinion:
Where to Stay in Bali Away From the Crowds?
Where to Stay in Other Bali Towns?
Here is a list of other Bali locations we have visited and might be of interest to you but didn’t make it into our top selection. These are our recommended accommodations for each one of them:
Candidasa – Quiet Beaches, snorkeling spots, and traditional villages: Candi Beach Resort & Spa*
Denpasar (Near The Airport) – For overnight stay upon arrival or departure: Grandmas Plus Hotel Airport*
Jimbaran – Beachside haven known for its seafood restaurants: JEstate villas & guest houses*
Kintamani – Mountain retreat overlooking Mount Batur: Tira Vilagna Suites & Spa*
Kuta – Classic Bali tourist hub with a strong nightlife scene: Amnaya Resort Kuta*
Sanur – Family-friendly resort town: Maison Aurelia Sanur*
Sekumpul – Stay next to Sekumpul Waterfall: Munduk Kupang Sekumpul Villa*
Planning Time
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