Where to Stay in Bali – Top 10 Best Areas to Stay in Bali

May 15, 2024laurenslighthouse

Planning your trip to Bali and are stumped on where to stay? Don’t worry, I was in the same boat as you once! After spending a month in Bali and staying in different corners of the island (and beyond), I’ve been looking forward to piecing together this post for you guys! From staying in the romantic South part of the island to the bustling West, the more remote and lush North to the calm and bright shores on the East, we’ve had a taste of various accommodations and locations across Bali.

When exploring Bali, it’s important not to limit yourself to one single accommodation – unless of course you’re just here for a few days. But if you’re here for a week or longer, make a point of trying out different home bases across the island! And take advantage of the vastly different accommodation styles it has to offer.

The island of Bali is actually a lot larger than you might think, at 5,577 km2 for the entire mainland. That doesn’t even include the Nusa Penida district, which consists of three small islands off the southeast coast of mainland Bali. An all encompassing trip to this region of Indonesia is not complete without some hopping around to different stays that offer different perspectives and experiences of Balinese life.

There are seven major areas that we recommend booking accommodations for to get the most of Bali, even if you plan on taking day tours around the island. They are all unique in their own way, not just in location, and are tailored to different ways of travelling and groups of travellers. After covering those, I’ll get into the more unique areas that aren’t often considered for nightly stays, but are right at the doorstep of amazing must-do adventures in Bali, including hiking a live volcano and swimming with manta rays.

The Best Places to Stay in Bali for Surfing, Nightlife and Younger Travellers

Seminyak

Though it’s not geographically central to the island, Seminyak is central to the hip and happening of Bali. It’s one of the most popular and versatile districts that suits every type of traveller and particularly first-time visitors. Seminyak is one of the best neighbourhoods to ease yourself into your Bali trip, and if you’re doing tours around the island and a hotel pickup is available, you can guarantee that Seminyak will be at the top of the list for pickup areas.

It’s got the best shopping and dining, and the more upscale beach clubs and nightlife on the island. If you’re looking for a place to stay where you’ve got a golden sand beach steps away from your room and want to schedule in both a soothing Balinese massage and an evening out at a trendy restaurant, Seminyak is the place to for you.

One thing to note though is, as I mentioned, it’s a very popular area. Folks staying in the larger umbrella district of Kuta as well as Canggu will often come out to Seminyak throughout the day and night. And with that popularity comes high traffic, noise pollution and a little too much “city” for an island getaway.

We loved making Seminyak our home base for a bit, and it made it very easy for us to book a private car for the day or rent a scooter for us to explore different corners of the island. We also cannot forget about one of our most memorable resort experiences at The Oberoi Beach Resort Bali that somehow drowns out every noise and flaw about Seminyak and takes you to a zen oasis in the midst of the chaos!

Lauren sitting comfortably in blue wrap skirt on the edge of the quiet rectangular pool of The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali. Lush and imposing trees create a private oasis for the pool area on the edge of Seminyak Beach.

Where to Stay in Seminyak

Canggu

Bali’s hipster enclave is Canggu, which is situated a little further north from Seminyak, still along the west coast. Think bohemian style cafés and accommodations, co-working spaces, street art and modern villas. Canggu is a solo traveller’s paradise and many backpackers will spend time here on their trip to the island.

It’s a magnet for digital nomads and creatives and is one of the more laid-back areas with its bohemian charm and great surf. If you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere to work and play, enjoy the beach vibes and great waves, and potentially meet others who are in the same boat as you, spend at least a few days in Canggu.

An intensely orange, pink and purple sunset reflected on the smooth sand of Seminyak Beach. The tide is low and the waves come in lapping gently on the flat and vast beach.

Where to Stay in Canggu

Kuta

Since the 1960’s, Kuta has been a huge hub for visitors and has grown tremendously. It might’ve lost its island charm, which has since been passed on to Seminyak and Canggu, but it’s still an epicentre for Bali’s beach parties, surfing and affordable accommodations.

Kuta is a large area but it’s also the closest district to the international airport of Denpasar (DPS), which makes it a great place to stay if you’re flying in late or flying out early. Although it’s not as refined as it once was and has suffered the repercussions of popularity and age, it’s starting to be on the up and up once again. We stayed at the Aloft Kuta which was a great start to our time in Bali, with great service, clean and comforting rooms and modern amenities. And it was right by the new Beachwalk mall, where there was plenty of shopping and dining at our fingertips.

If you can handle the lack of authentic Balinese charm and the busyness of a tourist hotspot in exchange for great beach time, waves, sunsets, nightlife and budget-friendly accommodations, add a few days to Kuta in your itinerary.

A shaded sidewalk ad sunlit road leading to an iconic Balinese gateway lead to the sunny coast of Kuta Beach. You can see onto the other side of the cultural gate the shimmering waters of the sea.

Where to Stay in Kuta

The Best Places to Stay in Bali for Zen, Culture and Couples

Uluwatu

The impressive sea cliffs and quiet, clean beaches of Uluwatu are the perfect escape from the bustling Kuta area. Situated on the west coast of Bali’s southern Bukit peninsula, Uluwatu is ideal for those seeking more of Bali’s untouched coast, quietness and never-ending ocean views.

Perched on the most western tip of the peninsula, 70m above the Bali Sea, is Uluwatu’s iconic temple. It’s home to marvellous architecture, one of the most breathtaking sunset spots and it hosts a cultural Kecak fire dance that is a must-see when in Bali.

Besides this neighbourhood’s cultural pull, Bali’s world-class surf breaks can be found here too, so you still get a bit of everything! At Padang Padang Beach, you can watch surfers ride the serene waves or you could pick up your board to ride them yourself!

We also found Uluwatu to be very easy to get around with cheap transportation, especially when we rented our own motorbike. We spent a whole day exploring this corner of the island with this 12-hour Uluwatu itinerary, even with it being our first time biking in Bali! It’s a place for adventurous couples looking to smile in the wind, have salt- and sun-kissed hair and catch memory book sunsets at a cliff’s edge.

Aerial shot of the rocky and verdant cliffs of Uluwatu peering down onto the pale sandy shores of Bingin Beach. Large porous boulders sit tall along the entire shoreline and the water of the reef shines bright blue while a tiny Lauren walks across the sand.

We had one of the most opulent and romantic stays at Jumeirah Bali in one of their sunset ocean view massive villas. The imperial Majapahit architecture of the property blended so well with the modern aesthetic. Not to mention, the infinity pools overlooked the peaceful Dreamland Beach and were just a stone staircase away from the shoreline!

Where to Stay in Uluwatu

Ubud

If soul rejuvenation were a place, Ubud would be it! There is something about the tranquility of the lush green forested valleys, rice terraces and flowing rivers of Ubud that just ease your spirit. In my opinion, it’s the heart of Bali’s culture and geographically speaking, that’s where you’ll find it too! It’s a haven for yoga enthusiasts, art lovers and seekers of traditional Balinese experiences.

Most of Ubud’s accommodations are also a lot more affordable than its beachside counterparts. You can have a luxurious experience for half the price or less! There are often a lot of relaxing complimentary activities, including yoga and rice paddy walks, that are included in the daily schedule at resorts in Ubud. If you’re looking for a restful retreat filled with the sounds, sights and smells of the forest, Ubud is where you’ll find it.

Aerial view of the lush, green natural setting of Maya Ubud's Infinity Riverside Pool. Sun rays pour in intensely through the forest, shining on the pool and café, garden trail and river.

Our spa retreat at Maya Ubud was phenomenal. The resort is perfectly situated along the Petanu River and our open-air couple’s massage overlooking the river valley will be one experience for the memory books. Not only was that amazing, but so was our very first floating breakfast in our private pool of the Heavenly Pool Villa.

We also got to experience Ubud in a different light with a Japanese twist at Hoshinoya Bali. If you stay here, you can’t miss out on the unique funicular ride down the valley to the spa!

Where to Stay in Ubud

The Best Places to Stay in Bali for Beaches, Resort Life and Families

Nusa Dua

Tucked in the southeast coast of Bali on the Bukit peninsula lies the resort enclave of Nusa Dua. It’s got some of the whitest and most powdery soft sand in Bali which is probably why so many beachfront resort properties opted to put their flag up here.

The scenic landscapes and quiet and clean beaches are some distance away from the more lively atmosphere of Kuta to Canggu, attracting a different crowd, or just folks who want a change of pace on their Bali their trip. Nusa Dua is home to a large collection of five-star resorts, including big names like St. Regis, Ritz-Carlton, Kempinski and Grand Hyatt. A lot of these properties are considered mega-resorts, housing massive swimming pools, golf courses, numerous restaurants and lots of family-friendly zones for kids.

The reefs on the east coast of Bali tend to be more colourful and the waters clearer and more vibrant. You’ll be able to enjoy better snorkelling and water sports in the less-trafficked beachsides of Nusa Dua! Hop out there for a little adventure in between your relaxation and pampering at the resort’s spa.

If you’re looking for more of an all-inclusive option during your time in Bali, you bet you’ll be able to find it here! Note that stays in Nusa Dua do come with a higher price tag. But much like all areas of Bali, you’ll always be able to find a reasonably-priced stay in the area as well.

Where to Stay in Nusa Dua

Sanur

Much like Nusa Dua, the sands of Sanur are soft and bright. It’s not as secluded and exclusive as Nusa Dua is. But the town’s long stretch of white sand beach lined with traditional fishing boats and shady palm trees provides the perfect setting for leisurely strolls and lazy days by the sea. Unlike the crowded beaches of Kuta and Seminyak, Sanur offers a quieter alternative for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Which is why families and mature couples often love staying in Sanur.

Being in close proximity to the Sanur harbour and ferry port also makes it well located for those wanting to island hop. Whether it’s just a day trip to Nusa Penida, Lembongan or Ceningan or you plan to spend a few nights there, or even if you want to get over to Lombok and the Gili Islands, staying in Sanur will make getting to the speedboat harbour most convenient.

You might trade in the remoteness and premium location of Nusa Dua for the convenience of transportation to the harbour and even driving north to Ubud. But the price of your stay is also reflected in that. Sanur offers an array of accommodations that won’t hurt your wallet much and are typically much newer than what you’ll find in the other districts of Bali.

Accommodation options in Sanur range from charming beachfront resorts to boutique hotels and budget guesthouses, catering to travellers of all preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway as honeymooners or for your 40th anniversary, a retreat with your kids, or a solo adventure, Sanur has something to offer.

Lauren standing at the glass railing of the Maya Sanur lobby, overlooking the Lagoon Pool. Lush green vines cascade down the nest balcony enclaves of the rooms and suites adjacent to the narrow swimming pool.

We loved our stay at Maya Ubud’s sister property, Maya Sanur! The treebar was amazing to enjoy some nightly live music and the spa here was incredible.

Where to Stay in Sanur

The Best Places to Stay in Bali for Off-the-Beaten-Track and Adventure

Kintamani

It’s not every day you get to sleep at the foot of an active volcano and near the shores of a caldera lake, namely the largest lake in Bali. Kintamani is an entire district that surrounds Mount Batur all the way to the western edge of Mount Abang. It’s also the village squeezed right between Mount Batur and Lake Batur, and is perfectly located for having natural hot springs.

In essence, it is a hot springs town, ideally situated for travellers wanting to explore Mount Batur for sunrise and take hot, rejuvenating dips afterwards with gorgeous lake and volcano views for their eyes to feast on.

Morning view of Kintamani village and Lake Batur seen from the crater ridge. of Mount Batur. The mighty silhouettes of Mount Abang and Mount Agung draw our attention as misty clouds frame the top and bottom of the volcanoes.

In Kintamani, you an find basic lodges that cater towards outdoor lovers and avid hikers as well as smaller family-owned properties with upscale villas. Getting away from the high car traffic and mega-resorts, you can find a piece of nature’s paradise right from your room – and thermal baths!

Where to Stay in Kintamani

Munduk

Tucked away in Bali’s highlands, Munduk offers a serene and off-the-beaten-path escape from the island’s more touristy areas. Surrounded by verdant rice terraces, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls, Munduk is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

One of the highlights of Munduk is its stunning natural scenery. The area is dotted with picturesque rice paddies and spice plantations, where you can witness local farmers tending to their crops against a backdrop of mist-covered mountains. The cool mountain air and tranquil ambiance make Munduk the perfect destination for leisurely hikes and scenic walks, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Bali’s countryside.

Munduk is also home to several breathtaking waterfalls, including the iconic Munduk Waterfall and the lesser-known Melanting Waterfall. This area is a stone’s throw away from our favourite lake temple in Bali, the Pura Ulun Danu Beratan. And if you’re keen on strolling through arguably the most beautiful rice terraces in Bali, Jatiluwih, Munduk is also in close proximity to it, with Ubud being the next closest.

Growing lush rice terraces tinged with green and yellow fill half of the image as palms and other tropical trees tower in the background. Behind them are the mist covered mountains of Munduk in northern Bali, and a moody cloud hovers the entire area.

Munduk offers one of the most peaceful and nature-centred places to stay in Bali. Accommodation options in Munduk range from eco-friendly lodges to charming guesthouses, each offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature’s beauty. It’s definitely a place with more unique sustainable lodging!

Where to Stay in Munduk

Nusa Penida

Just a short boat ride from the mainland, Nusa Penida beckons adventurers with its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and awe-inspiring natural attractions. This island paradise is a haven for travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences and untouched beauty.

One of the most iconic landmarks on Nusa Penida is Kelingking Beach, often referred to as the “T-Rex Bay” due to its distinctive rock formation resembling a Tyrannosaurus Rex. I know it’s super Instagram-famous and I thought it would be overrated, but man was I wrong. The view of that gorgeous cliffside shining in the golden light of sunrise, with the bluest waters lapping onto the powdery white sand beach in the bay, was worth a million bucks. There are tons more postcard-worthy landscapes you can’t miss on this island, and staying here for at least one night will give you the opportunity to really explore them without the day-tripper crowds.

The iconic view of Kelingking Beach and its recognizable T-Rex peninsular sea cliff jutting out of the ocean on the coast of Nusa Penida. The water is a deep blue while a lighter blue comes up onto the pale sandy beach, and spots of yellow are sporadic on the cliff's ridge and shrubs tinged by the rising sun.

On top of the otherworldly landscapes is one of the most epic water experiences we’ve ever had. It was a top bucket list moment when we got to swim with not one but three manta rays just a 10-minute boat ride from the harbour. This Manta Bay snorkelling tour only cost us $15 too and the views of the cliffs from the water are enough reason to participate!

Accommodation options on Nusa Penida range from beachfront bungalows to eco-friendly guesthouses, as well as incredibly affordable stays in the quiet main town of Toya Pakeh. Staying in the latter made things really convenient for us and the dining options here were enough to make the list of “best ever” for us! Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, wildlife encounters or epic landscapes, Nusa Penida promises an unforgettable island escape unlike any other.

Where to Stay in Nusa Penida

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