Best Areas To Stay In Bali – Complete Guide
Searching for the best areas to stay in Bali?
Bali is exceptionally diverse for a relatively small island, with so many exciting and unique places to stay that make it almost impossible to visit them all. I have visited Bali many times and lived on the island for a while now and only just managed to experience the best areas to stay in Bali.
Seminyak is great for Bali first-timers and for a great party vibe; Ubud is the island’s cultural centre and has some best eco lodging in Bali, whereas Uluwatu is famous for its world-class surfing spots. Hotel rates in Bali vastly differ, which means that you’ll find something good whatever your budget may be.
This post is a comprehensive guide to all the best areas in Bali and some best hotels in Bali.
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Overview Of Best Areas To Stay In Bali
Bali Map – Hotels
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Kuta Bali
Kuta was a backpacker’s paradise. Today, Kuta is very quiet as backpackers moved to Canggu, but Kuta still boasts extremely well-priced accommodation options.
Kuta is also where to stay in Bali for beginner surfers as the sea is much calmer than, for example, in Canggu, and it receives long consistent waves. If learning how to surf from scratch is your priority, Kuta is your best area to stay in Bali.
Things to do in Kuta:
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Best Hotels in Kuta
AMNAYA RESORT KUTA
Amnaya Resort offers spacious rooms with modern but rustic décor. The hotel has an excellent a la carte restaurant, spa and barbecue facility. It is situated right in the heart of Kuta within walking distance of Kuta’s top attractions.
ALAM KULKUL BOUTIQUE RESORT
This boutique hotel is situated only a few minutes walk from the main beach in town – Kuta Beach and steps away from Legian Beach.
SULIS BEACH HOTEL & SPA
Sulis Beach is located at the quieter end of Kuta Beach and close to the Lippo Mall. The hotel boasts a large rooftop pool overlooking the beach and a well-priced restaurant, buffet breakfast and free airport shuttle.
Seminyak Bali – Best for foodies & luxury hotels
Seminyak is the next area to the east neighbouring with Kuta. You won’t feel like it’s a different place as the urban area just continues along the coast. Seminyak is an up-market version of Kuta with the most luxurious choices of accommodation in Bali, fancy spas and expensive shopping malls with international and Bali-made brands.
Seminyak is particularly good for food lovers. The choice is vast, from pop up taco bars and cute, vegan cafes to top-notch gourmet restaurants with world-class chefs. One thing is certain while visiting Seminyak; you won’t run out of exciting food places to sample!
Things to do in Seminyak:
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Best Hotels in Seminyak
THE LEGIAN BALI
This highly-rated five-star hotel is set right on the beach with a large, three-tiered pool overlooking the ocean. Suites include bathtubs and double vanity sinks.
THE COLONY HOTEL
This boutique hotel impresses with its colonial charm. Think white arches, luxury suites, and chandeliers. There is a gym, and a beautiful restaurant and the hotel is situated a short walk to Petitenget Beach.
IBIS STYLES BALI
This budget hotel is located 1 km from Seminyak Square Mall and five minutes’ drive from the beach. Ibis Styles offers clean and modern rooms with buffet breakfast included in the rate. There is also a pleasant pool area and a restaurant.
Canggu – Best for Expat Vibe
If you drive a little further west from Seminyak, you’ll find Canggu. Canggu is home to many international expats, entrepreneurs, bloggers and content creators. This is the best place to stay in Bali; if you want to sample a Bali-based influencer’s daily life. The town has an impressive selection of cafes, and it’s way less touristy than Kuta or Seminyak.
You’ll find here some great beach clubs, such as Finns and La Brisa and some good intermediate to advance surfing spots on Echo Beach and Batu Balong.
Things to do in Canggu:
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Best Bali Hotels in Canggu
COMO UMA CANGGU
COMO Uma is probably the most luxurious hotel available in Canggu. It is situated right on Echo Beach, and guests can enjoy the views of the Indian Ocean from the pool area. The hotel boasts a la carte restaurant serving international dishes and a wellness centre.
ECOSFERA HOTEL
Ecosfera Hotel is conveniently located right on the best beach in Canggu – Echo Beach. The rooms have Balinese, modern décor. What’s unique about this hotel is it’s yoga classes and a healthy vegetarian café.
GURU CANGGU HOSTEL
Guru Canggu is a safe oasis, especially for solo travellers. It is a cute hostel conveniently located in Berawa. Guru Canggu has a relaxed, boho vibe and a lush garden with a pool. You can choose between staying in a shared dorm or a private room.
Uluwatu– Best area in Bali for surfers & beachlovers
Uluwatu is situated on the Bukit Peninsula in the very southern part of the island. It is one of the best places to stay in Bali if you’re a keen surfer and a beachgoer! Ulu has some excellent surfing spots, such as Blue Point Beach, that are visited by the world’s best surfers! Uluwatu is also much less busy than Kuta or Seminyak. So, if you’re a beach lover and looking for more relaxed beaches, Uluwatu is your best location to stay in Bali.
Things to do in Uluwatu:
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Best hotels in Uluwatu
SUARGA PADANG PADANG
Suarga Padang Padang is a sustainable boutique hotel featuring 36 villas built with a minimal impact on the environment using recycled wood and solar panels. It’s located on a clifftop boasting some epic views over the ocean.
DREAMSEA
This boho boutique hotel is located right on the cliff, where you can feel and hear the ferocious waves crashing against the shore. The location is also great for some of the best Uluwatu cafes as well as it is within walking distance to Padang Padang Beach.
SAL SECRET SPOT
Sal Secret Spot is situated within walking distance to Bingin Beach, a white sanded beach excellent for swimming with a calmer sea. Rooms are small but comfortable, and there is a beautiful boho-style pool area to enjoy.
Jimbaran – Best Place To Stay In Bali For Couples
Jimbaran is the closest area to the airport, only a few minutes’ drive. It’s got a beautiful white-sanded beach that stretches for a few kilometres and some excellent seafood dining options right on the beach. Jimbaran is one of the best places to stay in Bali for couples and the best area to stay in Bali for families, right after Nusa Dua. Some of the best hotels in Jimbaran boast beachfront locations and are perfect for a beach holiday.
Things to do in Jimbaran:
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Best hotels in Jimbaran
KAYUMANIS PRIVATE ESTATE
The property is a collection of luxury Balinese open living villas. Each villa comes with a private garden and a large private pool. The hotel offers exceptional spa facilities and an Indonesian Restaurant on site.
RIMBA JIMBARAN
The hotel offers pool access rooms and suites overlooking the ocean. It comes with various pools, including an infinity pool overlooking Jimbaran Bay and a private beach with a lift.
FOX HOTEL JIMBARAN BEACH
This hotel offers clean, spacious rooms and a rooftop swimming pool where you can order Insta famous floating breakfast. It’s located a five-minute walk from the beach, where you get a token for free sun loungers. This hotel is an excellent choice for budget travellers or those of us travelling solo.
Nusa Dua – Best Place To Stay In Bali With Kids
Nusa Dua is the best place to stay in Bali with family. The sea is calm and safe for the children to swim, and there is plenty to do for the whole family, such as boat trips, kayak rentals and snorkelling opportunities. Nusa Dua also has a great selection of family-friendly Bali hotels and resorts.
Things to do in Nusa Dua:
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Best hotels in Nusa Dua
Sofitel Beach Resort
Sofitel comes with direct beach access and is situated in a gorgeous and immaculate garden. There is a fantastic lagoon pool with a swim-up bar, a fitness and spa centre, and a stylish bar and a restaurant within the hotel grounds.
NUSA DUA BEACH HOTEL
This hotel is also a 5-star hotel, but you get more value for money. The rooms are spacious, decorated with authentic Balinese furnishing and come with a terrace or balcony. The facilities include a spa, fitness centre and three beautiful pools.
MAHOGANY HOTEL
Mahogany Hotel is located 10 minutes’ drive from Nusa Dua Beach, and it offers a free shuttle bus to Bali Collection for its guests from where you can walk to the beach. It’s got a pleasant pool area and Indonesian and European breakfast included in the rate.
Sanur – Best Area To Stay In Bali For Mature Travellers
Sanur is a bit of an underdog, but it shouldn’t be overlooked as it can be one of the best places to stay in Bali for families, especially if it’s your first time. The vibe in Sanur is more chilled and less touristy than the main area of Kuta and Seminyak. Sanur has a calm sea, perfect for watersports, and it’s an excellent base for visiting the incredible Nusa Islands.
Things to do in Sanur:
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Best hotels in Sanur
MAYA SANUR RESORT & SPA
This beautiful beachfront hotel boasts two pools, a fitness centre complimentary to guest and four onsite restaurants. Each room has a modern design and includes tea and coffee making equipment.
THE ALANTARA A PRAMANA EXPERIENCE
The hotel is located in the heart of Sanur, close to bars and restaurants and a 5 minutes’ drive to Sanur Beach. The hotel has a pool and restaurant and offers various activities that guests can enjoy free of charge, including yoga, and a free massage.
BLANJONG HOMESTAY
The property is located 10 minutes’ walk to the nearest beach and a short drive to Sanur Beach. Rooms are simple but are equipped with everything you may need, including en suite bathrooms, a flat-screen TV and air conditioning.
Ubud – Best Part Of Bali To Stay For Culture And Adventure
Ubud is definitely in the top three of Bali best areas to stay! Ubud is situated in the central part of the island, and it’s known to be its cultural capital. There is so much to do in Ubud and the surrounding areas, such as exploring rice fields, chasing waterfalls and visiting temples.
It is definitely one of the best locations to stay in Bali for adventurers and explorers and an excellent base to see north of Bali.
Things to do in Ubud:
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Best hotels in Ubud
BEEHOUSE DIJIWA
The hotel is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud. Seven stylish wooden villas overlook the lush greenery of rice paddies and a lagoon-styled swimming pool. Would you like to try the Bali specials like a floating breakfast, flower bath or a massage? The hotel will make it happen for you.
VILLA CELLA BELLA
This beautiful property is located just 10 minutes drive from the centre of Ubud. This boutique hotel boasts an infinity pool overlooking rice fields and a lush valley with a stream at the bottom where local people attend their daily bath rituals. Villa Cella Bella is the best place to stay in Ubud, Bali, if you want to wow your Instagram followers.
PURI GARDEN HOTEL
This hostel has a great location as it is situated right in Ubud, close to all Ubud points of interest. It’s a luxury hostel with a nice pool, free yoga classes and different types of entertainment every evening, including live music, BBQ and movie nights.
Southeast Bali – Best For Off-Beaten Track Experience
Sidemen – Best bamboo houses in Bali
Sidemen is an up and coming area to visit in Bali. It is the best area to stay in Bali if you’re after a more off-beaten track experience or if you’ve been to Bali already and are interested in exploring more. Sidemen is not touristy and has lots to offer, from stunning rice fields, temples to some awesome viewpoints over Mount Agung.
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Things to do in Sidemen:
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Best hotels in Sidemen
SAMANVAYA LUXURY RESORT
This adult-only, eco-friendly resort boasts Maunt Agung views and is surrounded by the lush rice fields situated in the heart of Sidemen Valley. Samanvaya is the perfect marriage of Balinese traditional joglo style and modern luxury. The hotel boasts a restaurant, excellent spa facilities and an infinity pool overlooking the tranquil rice paddies.
VISION VILLA RESORT
Vision Villa Resort is located in Keramas, only a few minutes drive from Bali’s most famous winery – Sababay. If you want to experience the winery, this is a great hotel to stay. Vision Villas boast well-designed rooms, a pool, and an excellent restaurant onsite with many healthy options, reasonably priced.
KUBU CARIK BUNGALOWS
Kubu Carik Bungalows have an excellent location which is only a few minutes’ drive from the famous Mount Agung viewpoint – Bukit Cinta. If you’re planning a sunrise mission to Bukit Cinta, this is the best hotel to stay in Bali.
Amed – Best For A Quitter Beach Stay
Amed is a coastal town situated on the eastern shore of Bali. Amed is famous for its gorgeous black-sand beaches and colourful fishing boats. Amed is excellent for an alternative beach stay, far away from Bali’s crowds of most popular areas.
Amed is also excellent for snorkelling, visiting Pura Lempuyang and taking a boat to visit Gili Islands.
Things to do in Amed:
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Best hotels in Amed
Amed Boutique Hotel
Amed Boutique Hotel is situated right on the Amed beach, where you can mingle with the locals and watch the fishermen go about their day. Stay in one of the Balinese-style cottages with outdoor bathrooms. The hotel offers free yoga classes and has an onsite restaurant.
Blue Moon Villas
Blue Moon Villas is located slightly further away from Amed Centre, and it is tranquil. The hotel boasts a pool overlooking the ocean, a restaurant serving fresh seafood and a free breakfast. Rooms are comfortable and have private terraces, some with an ocean view.
Anda Amed Resort
The property is conveniently located close to a range of good restaurants, shops, diving and snorkelling centres and 3 km away from the busy Amed centre. It’s a great budget option with free WIFI and free breakfast. The highlight of the hotel is the infinity pool overlooking the sea.
Kintamani – Best For Adventure Seekers
Kintamani is one of the best areas of Bali for adventure lovers and active people. There are so many activities to take up here. Some of the best ones include sunrise volcano hiking, cycling the rice fields and ARV adventures.
Things to do Kintamani:
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Best hotels in Kintamani
Basecamp Bali Bubble Hotel
Have you ever stayed in a bubble hotel? Basecamp Bali is one of them located on a platform overlooking Mount Batur with some epic views. Basecamp Bali offers a unique experience, a combination of luxury and nature. The hotel rate includes breakfast, dinner and a shuttle to the location.
Villa Jempana
Villas Jempana is situated right in front of Batur Lake and has a pool, restaurant and free a la carte breakfast. Rooms are modern and spacious.
Batur Volcano Guesthouse
Batur Volcano Guesthouse has a range of bungalows set in a garden with pools and a superb view of Lake Batur. There is a hotel restaurant, and an Asian-styled breakfast is included in the rate.
North Bali– Best For Peace & Quiet
Munduk – Best for exploring waterfalls
Munduk is such a great place in Northern Bali to unwind from the hustle and bustle of main tourist hot spots and chill out in nature. If you’re looking for a nature getaway, whether it’s a romantic one or an active one, Munduk is the perfect place.
Things to do in Munduk:
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Best hotels in Munduk
Munduk Moding Plantation
Munduk Moding Plantation is located 20 minutes’ drive from Munduk. The hotel’s best part is its infinity pool overlooking the working coffee plantation with some incredible sunset views. The rooms feature four-poster beds and a Balinese-styled yet modern design. The guests can enjoy various day activities, spa, gym, tennis tournaments and yoga classes. Munduk Moding is one of the best hotels to stay in Bali.
Munduk Menir Villas
Munduk Menir features a different type of traditional wooden cottages surrounded by nature and stunning views all the way round. Each cottage has a bathroom, coffee and tea-making facilities and an outdoor sitting area. The hotel is located within proximity to Munduk’s best waterfalls: 6 km to Munduk Waterfall and 10 km to Git Git Waterfall. The hotel also features a large pool and an onsite restaurant.
Aditya Homestay
It’s a small hotel comprising six guest rooms with free wifi and balconies overlooking the valley and rice fields. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, and there are also some small warungs and cafés nearby. Aditya Homestay is a great budget option for staying in the Munduk area. You can rent a scooter from the hotel or a map they provide; you can hike to local waterfalls and rice paddies. This place is great for couples looking for a romantic getaway in the serenity of nature.
Lovina – Best For A Quitter Beach Stay
Lovina is a black-sanded beach resort situated in the north of Bali. Lovina is known for its excellent coral reefs and dolphin watching. If you are looking for a quiet beach destination with some unique activities and epic waterfalls, then Lovina is your best area to stay.
Things to do in Lovina:
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Best hotels in Lovina
The Damai
The Damai is a boutique hotel situated in the hills overlooking the Lovina beach coast and the volcanoes of Java. The property offers different villas, all beautifully decorated with Balinese antiques, including four-poster beds and outdoor bathrooms. Some villas come with a private pool. There is a beautiful shared swimming pool, a restaurant and a spa for an extra charge.
Lilin Lovina Beach Hotel
The property offers nine villas situated right on the beach, all nicely decorated in a nautical and minimalist fashion, have private plunge pools and sitting areas. The hotel makes an effort to be eco-friendly and sustainable, providing refillable water bottles and large refillable toiletries. The hotel also features a restaurant and a bar right on the beach.
Hotel Shri Ganesh
Hotel Shri Ganesh is located 5 minutes walk from Lovina Beach. The hotel features traditional Balinese-style cottages with air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms surrounded by a garden. Guests can enjoy a shared pool and onsite restaurant serving hearty dishes.
Nusa Islands – Best For Unworldly Clifftop Views & Pristine Beaches
Nusa Islands are situated just a short boat ride to the south from Bali’s shore and are considered a part of the Bali regency. There are three islands: Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. They are all so different from Bali – way less established as tourist destinations with a unique landscape.
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is the most popular out of the three islands, and it gets a fair amount of day-trippers. But if you want to truly appreciate the island’s incredible beauty, I highly recommend staying at least one day on Penida. Accommodation options are more limited and modest than hotels and resorts in Bali. You can read more on that in my full guide on Nusa Penida Hotels.
Things to do on Nusa Penida:
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Best hotels on Nusa Penida
Le Royale Tropical Bamboo Villas
Le Royale Villas are situated between Crystal Bay and Toya Pakeh. This property looks like a perfect Instagram photo! It offers an open living concept in a wooden villa with a large terrace to soak in the epic sunset views. It’s got a hot tub and a private pool, a big-screen movie in the communal area, and offers a free BBQ service.
Penida Bay Village
Penida Bay Village is situated 10 minutes’ walk from Crystal Bay Beach in a traditional local village with good proximity to a few little shops and local warungs. The bungalows are clean and spacious and include free wifi use and toiletries in a private bathroom. There is an onsite restaurant that serves a good breakfast that is included in the room price, but also lunch and dinner for an extra charge.
La Roja Bungalows
La Roja property is also one of the best Nusa Penida hostels that offer private and shared rooms. It is located within 20 minutes’ drive from the harbour on the western coast, a minutes’ walk from shops and small, local restaurants. The hotel boasts a pool area with white decking and a well-kept garden. There is a choice of older bungalows and newer ones situated around the pool, simple yet very tastefully designed. La Roja is an excellent option for solo travellers and budget travellers.
Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is the second largest out of the three Nusa islands. While Nusa Penida gets many day visitors during the peak season, Nusa Lembongan is way quitter but equally stunning.
Here is the full guide: Where to stay on Nusa Lembongan
Things to do on Nusa Lembongan:
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Best hotels on Nusa Lembongan
Adiwana d’Nusa Beach Club and Resort
Adiwana Resort is located on the southwestern part of Nusa Lembongan Island, 4 km away from Mushroom Bay. The property features a pool with a view of the ocean. Guests have free access to the hotel’s beach club and fitness centre.
Lembongan Harmony Villas
Lembongan Harmony Villas are located on the western side of Nusa Lembongan and boast a stunning view of the Bali mainland and the mighty Mount Agung. Other locations nearby include Jungut Batu Beach and Coconuts Beach. Villas come with a view of the ocean and private plunge pools.
Krisna Home Stay
Krisna Home Stay offers simple cottages located in the garden, under 2 km away from Mushroom Bay Beach. The rooms are spacious and simple and come with ensuite bathrooms and an outdoor sitting area. The property also has an onsite restaurant.
Nusa Ceningan
Nusa Ceningan is the smallest of the three islands and is weirdly best known for the yellow bridge that connects it to its bigger sister Nusa Lembongan. Nusa Ceningan is perfect for a very relaxing getaway away from all tourists and for its pristine clear seawater and unspoiled beaches.
Things to do on Nusa Ceningan:
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Best hotels on Nusa Ceningan
Blue Lagoon Avia Villas
Blue Lagoon Avia Villas are located on the western side of Nusa Ceningan, within walking distance to Blue Lagoon. The hotel boasts an infinity pool with an impressive view over the lagoon. The property offers a variety of villas; some come with a private pool.
Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas
Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas are located on the western side of Nusa Ceningan. The property is facing the beachfront and boasts a pool, restaurant and a bar. Rooms come with en suite bathrooms, and tea and coffee-making facilities, and the room rate includes a la carte breakfast.
Wooden Beach Sunset Cottages
Wooden Beach Sunset Cottages are located right on the beach in the northwestern part of Nusa Ceningan. Cottages are equipped with bathrooms and an outdoor sitting area. There is a private beach for the use of guests, and the hotel serves continental breakfast.
Gili Islands – Best For Divers & Beach Lovers
Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is the largest of the three Gili islands and the favourite island amongst backpackers. Gili T has the largest variety of hotels for different budgets, restaurants, shops and bars. The only way to get around the Gili Islands is on a bicycle which is a fantastic experience as no cars are allowed on any of the Gilis.
Things to do on Gili T:
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Best hotels on Gili T
Pearl of Trawangan
Located just a few minutes’ walk from the main promenade at Gili T, close to a selection of restaurants, bars and shops, the property boasts a beachfront location, two pools, one facing the ocean with a swim-up bar and one in the garden with a jacuzzi. There are different types of rooms to choose from, some situated in the garden and others facing the beach. They all have a rustic yet modern design and come with an outdoor sitting area.
Le Pirate Beach Club
This hotel is located on Gili T, but on the more quiet, western side. The hotel features charming blue and white cottages. They are a little small inside but have everything you may need: refillable water bottles, air-containing and outdoor bathrooms. They also come with a porch area and a hammock.
Cinta Cottages
Cinta Cottages are located within walking distance of the turtle conservation area on the eastern side of Gili T, minutes away from the beachfront. Cottages come with a plunge pool and a private garden area. The room rate includes breakfast and free use of bicycles.
Gili Air
Gili Air is the second largest after Gili T, and it’s known for its luxury hotels. It is the favourite island for honeymooners and couples.
Things to do on Gili Air:
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Best hotels on Gili Air
Anahata Tropical Private Villas
This property boasts three private villas with a private pool. They represent a mixture of traditional tropical architecture and modern comfort. Breakfast is served in the villa, and the hotel provides free use of bicycles.
PinkCoco Gili Air
PinkCoco Hotel is located on the western side of Gili Air. The property has direct access to the beach, a pool and an onsite pool. The hotel can arrange sunset boat trips for its guests in a cute pink speed boat. The breakfast and use of bicycles are included in the price.
Island View Bar & Bungalow
Island View Bungalows are located on the western part of Gili Air with direct access to the beachfront, where various water sports are available to guests for an additional charge. The bungalows are situated in a garden and come with an outdoor sitting area and outdoor bathroom; some come with fans; some are air-conditioned.
Gili Meno
Gili Meno is the smallest of the three Gili Islands, with only a few hotels and not much infrastructure. This is the best island for an ultimate tranquil getaway.
Things to do on Gili Meno:
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Best hotels on Gili Meno
Meno House
Meno House is one of the most luxurious hotels on Gili Meno. The property features beautiful, luxury and modern rooms, a large pool and an onsite restaurant.
Seri Resort Gili Meno
The Siri Resort is conveniently located right in front of the spot where turtles hang out! It’s also only a 5 minutes boat ride from the Gili T. The hotel offers small, nautical-style cottages right on the beach and surrounded by bushes of pink flowers. There is a pool in front of the main building and a vegetarian restaurant.
Kampung Meno Bungalows
Kampung Meno offers a range of different types of simple bungalows, a shared pool situated in a garden and a restaurant.
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Best Areas To Stay In Bali: Final Thoughts
I hope this post’s helped you to decide which areas are best for you to stay in Bali! If you have any questions, feel free to use the section below.
