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12 Best Areas To Stay In Bali For First-Timers In 2024 (By Local Expats)

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

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.

We’ve lived in Bali since 2020 and have extensively visited all the places that we’re talking about in this post.

Seminyak and Canggu are the best places to stay in Bali for first-timers, offering an electrifying mix of sun, surf, and social scenes. In contrast, Ubud stands as the cultural jewel of the island, boasting some of the best eco-friendly bamboo houses nestled among verdant greenery.

Despite the diversity of experiences, Bali’s range of hotel options means there’s a comfortable stay for every budget. Whether you’re a luxury seeker or a cost-conscious traveller, you’ll find a place to rest your head and enjoy the island’s generous hospitality.

This post is the ultimate guide to where to stay in Bali for first timers, but it also includes a guide to Bali areas that are less touristy.

Let’s dive in.

Our Favourite Places To Stay In Bali

Blogger Mal in Sidemen one of the best areas to stay in Bali.
The view of Mt Agung in Sidemen.

Here are the top areas to stay in Bali that we would suggest to our friends coming to Bali for the first time. Depending on the length of your Bali trip, we recommend staying in at least 2 different places.

Canggu – best place to stay in Bali for solo travellers, great nightlife and digital nomad vibes. We live here, and despite the fact that it’s busy, we love it. 🌟TOP HOTEL PICK ➡️ GURU CANGGU

Ubud – which area to stay in Bali for nature and culture lovers? Ubud! We recommend everyone to stay in Ubud for at least two nights to experience authentic Bali. 🌟TOP HOTEL PICK ➡️ BEEHOUSE DIJIWA

Seminyak – best area to stay in Bali for couples enjoying fine dining, boutique hotels and good nightlife.🌟TOP HOTEL PICK ➡️ THE LEGIAN BALI

Nusa Dua – best area to stay in Bali for families! Here, you’ll find private beaches that are safe for kids and the best family-friendly resorts. 🌟TOP HOTEL PICK ➡️ NUSA DUA BEACH HOTEL

Sidemen – our favourite non-touristy area of Bali. Visit for rice fields, Mt Agung views and eco-luxury resorts. 🌟TOP HOTEL PICK ➡️ SAMANVAYA

Best Areas To Stay In Bali – Map

#1 Seminyak – Best Area In Bali For Couples.

Seminyak Beach one of the best areas to stay in Bali.

Seminyak is located on the southern coast of the island, tucked between Kuta and Canggu, and located 10 km from the international airport.  

Seminyak is an up-market version of Kuta with the most luxurious choices of accommodation in Bali, fancy spas such as the Body Works, which we love and expensive shopping malls with international and Bali-made brands.

Seminyak is perfect for food lovers. We love visiting at weekends to eat out! The choice is vast, from pop-up taco bars like Motel Mexicola (you must try it!) and cute vegan cafes to top-notch gourmet restaurants with world-class chefs. One thing is sure: while visiting Seminyak, you won’t run out of exciting food places to sample!

Seminyak Beach is wide and long, and there are a few good beginner surf spots.

Things To Do In Seminyak

  • Spend the day at the famous Potato Beachclub
  • Shop until you drop – Seminyak has some of the best shopping in Bali
  • Eat at the many exciting and delicious restaurants – don’t forget to try the Insta famous KYND Café!

PROS

  • Excellent food scene
  • Best luxury hotels in Bali
  • Vibrant nightlife

CONS

  • Expensive
  • Can be busy
  • Hectic traffic during peak season

Best Places To Stay In Seminyak

Boasting a range of luxury beachfront resorts, Seminyak is the best area in Bali to stay for couples seeking a romantic escape.

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
The Legian Bali via Booking.com

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.


🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
The Colony via Booking.com

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. We can personally recommend it!


🌟Budget Pick🌟
Rama Residence in Seminyak where we stayed.
Rama Residence via Booking.com

Rama Residence

Located in the lively area of Petitengent, near shops and restaurants and a 20-minute walk to the beach, this property boasts a pleasant pool area, spa and optional breakfast. Robin’s parents stayed here and can recommend it.

#2 Ubud – Best Part Of Bali To Stay In For Culture And Nature.

Ubud is the best area in Bali for nature lovers thanks to places like Campuhan Ridge Walk.
Ubud Monkey Forest

Ubud is situated in the central part of the island, 37 km from the airport, and it’s known to be its cultural capital. 

Ubud is definitely in the top three of Bali best areas to stay! We recommend staying at least 2 nights for all first-time visitors to really appreciate its atmosphere. If you want to experience authentic Bali, there is no better place. 

We visit Ubud almost every month, and our trips always serve us a time to reconnect with nature. Here, you can find the most unique places to stay in Bali, anything from an eco-lodge, 5-star jungle resort and Instgram-worthy hotels!

There are so many amazing things to do in Ubud and the surrounding areas, such as exploring rice fields, chasing waterfalls (our favourite two are Tibumana and Kanto Lampo) 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

  • Visit Sacred Monkey Forest
  • Have a stroll on Campuha Ridge Walk
  • Visit Tegalalang Rice Fields
  • Explore Saraswati Temple and Ubud Palace

PROS

  • Ubud is excellent for experiencing real Bali
  • Great base for exploring North Bali
  • Ubud has some of the unique Bali accommodation options

CONS

  • No beach access
  • The town itself can suffer from traffic

Best Places To Stay In Ubud

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
hotels in ubud
Beehouse Dijiwa via Booking.com

BEEHOUSE DIJIWA

The hotel is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud. Guests can stay in stylish wooden villas overlooking the lush greenery of rice paddies and a lagoon-styled swimming pool. Some villas come with private pools.


🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
best places to stay in ubud
Villa Cella Bella via Booking.com

VILLA CELLA BELLA

Located just 10 minutes drive from the centre of Ubud, this boutique hotel boasts an infinity pool overlooking rice fields and a lush valley. Villa Cella Bella is the best place to stay in Ubud, Bali, if you want to wow your Instagram followers.

🌟Budget Pick🌟
best places to stay in ubud
Puri Garden via Booking.com

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.

#3 Canggu – Best Area In Bali For Solo Travellers.

Canggu is the best place in Bali for solo female travellers.

If you drive a little further west from Seminyak, you’ll find Canggu. Canggu is home to many international expats, entrepreneurs, bloggers and remote workers. This is the best place to stay in Bali if you want to sample expat daily life

Canggu is our home, and in recent years, it has definitely become more popular with travellers. It suffers from crazy traffic during the summer peak season months, prices are constantly rising, and the development rate appears out of control. BUT, we still love it for many reasons.

Canggu has an impressive selection of cafes, coworking spaces, gyms, spas and local markets. Canggu is the absolutely top location in Bali where to stay for nightlife and the best place for connecting and making friends. 

You’ll also find some epic beach clubs here, such as Finns and La Brisa, and some excellent surfing spots for all levels on Echo Beach and Batu Balong. We surf here all the time at Old Man’s break. 🏄🏻🏄🏻‍♀️

So, if you’re a solo traveller, enjoy a good nightlife or you’re a foodie like us, Canggu is one of the best areas to stay in Bali for you.

Things To Do In Canggu

  • Eat your way through the Canggu cafés – our favourite spots include Milk & Madu, Copenhagen, and Touche.
  • Go out 🍸🪩 (our fav spots: Old Man’s, Motel Mexicola, Black Sand Brewery).
  • Visit Tanah Lot for sunset.
  • Spend the day in one of Canggu’s beach clubs- Finns, La Brisa or Atlas.

PROS

  • Great nightlife
  • Excellent food scene
  • Good surf spots
  • Easy to meet people

CONS

  • Further from the airport
  • Beaches are not great for swimming
  • Bad traffic during peak season

Best Places To Stay In Canggu

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
best places to stay in canggu
COMO Uma Canggu via Booking.com

COMO UMA CANGGU

COMO Uma 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.


🌟Midrange Pick🌟
best places to stay in canggu
Guru Canggu via Booking.com

GURU CANGGU

It is a cute property 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 double room or a villa.

🌟HOSTEL Pick🌟
Kos One Hostel canggu
Kos One via Booking.com

KOS ONE

Located only a few minutes walk to Batu Balong Beach, this highly-rated hostel has an ideal location for surfing, nightlife and a wide range of restaurants.

#4 Uluwatu – Best For Surfers & Beach Lovers.

Padang Padang Uluwatu is one of the best places to stay in Bali for beaches.
Padang Padang Beach

Uluwatu is situated on the Bukit Peninsula in the very southern part of the island, 23 km from the airport. 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 Suluban Beach, that are visited by the world’s best surfers! It is also where to stay in south Bali for the best beaches. We love beaches in Uluwatu, so since it’s just over an hour’s drive from Canggu, we often visit at weekends. 

We love Melasti for its epic cliffs and chic beach clubs such as Palmilla. We also often come to Bingin Beach, which has a chilled, young vibe or Padang Padang, which is the best beach in Uluwatu for swimming. 

Uluwatu is also much less busy than Canggu or Seminyak, so it is the best part of Bali for couples who prefer quieter locations. 

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

  • Surf the world-class waves
  • Visit Uluwatu Temple
  • Watch the sunset at Single Finns Beach Club
  • Spend a day at Palmilla Beach Club
  • Watch Kecak dance show

PROS

  • Excellent for intermediate to advanced surfers
  • Less busy than Canggu or Seminyak
  • Best beaches in Bali
  • Good dining options

CONS

  • Remote to do excursions to other parts of Bali
  • Not the best for nightlife

Best Places To In Uluwatu

🌟TOP Pick🌟
best places to stay in uluwatu
Suarga Padang Padang via Booking.com

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.


🌟Midrange Pick🌟
best places to stay in uluwatu
Dreamsea via Booking.com

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 it is within walking distance to Padang Padang Beach.


🌟Budget Pick🌟
Blogger Mal staying at Sal Secret Spot - the hotel she recommend in her post about best areas to stay in bali.

SAL SECRET SPOT

Sal Secret Spot is situated within walking distance of Bingin Beach, one of our favourite beaches. Rooms are small but comfortable, and there is a beautiful boho-style pool area to enjoy.

#5 Jimbaran – Best Area To Stay In Bali For Honeymoon.

Jimbaran Beach is one of the best areas in Bali for families.

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 who can choose to stay in luxury resorts and enjoy romantic dinners on the beach. (We recommend the fancy HATIKU, which we discovered recently.)

It is also the best area for families to stay in Bali, right after Nusa Dua, due to its proximity to the airport and safe swimming beach.

Things To Do In Jimbaran

  • Dine in one of the seafood restaurants right on the beach
  • Learn SUP or explore the shore in a kayak
  • Walk the long stretch of beautiful white-sanded Jimbaran Beach
  • Visit the famous Rock Bar

PROS

  • Close to the airport
  • Calm sea, excellent for swimming
  • Romantic beachfront dining

CONS

  • Not ideal for nightlife
  • It’s not good for surfing

Best Places To Stay In Jimbaran

Some of the best hotels in Jimbaran boast beachfront locations and are perfect for a beach holiday.

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
best places to stay in Jimbaran
Kayumanis Private Estate & Spa via Booking.com

KAYUMANIS PRIVATE ESTATE

The property is located within walking distance of the beach. Each villa comes with a private garden and a large private pool. The hotel offers exceptional spa facilities and an Indonesian Restaurant on site.


🌟Budget Pick🌟
best places to stay in Jimbaran
Fox Hotel Jimbaran Beach via Booking.com

FOX HOTEL JIMBARAN BEACH

This hotel offers clean, spacious rooms and a rooftop swimming pool. 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.

#6 Nusa Dua – Best Place To Stay In Bali With Kids.

Nusa Dua is the best place to stay in Bali for families.

Nusa Dua is the best place to stay in Bali with family. Nusa Dua beaches boast calm waters that are safe for the children to swim in, and there is plenty to do for the whole family, such as boat trips, kayak rentals, and snorkelling opportunities. Our favourite beach in this beach part of the island is Gegre Beach (check the photo above we took on our last trip!).

Nusa Dua also has the best places to stay Bali offers for families. Most Nusa Dua resorts are family-friendly and often feature kids’ clubs, family suites, and child-friendly menus, ensuring that every member of the family, from the tiniest toddler to the grandparents, feels welcomed and engaged. 

With attentive service and thoughtful amenities, these resorts strive to create a seamless and unforgettable experience for the entire family.

Things To Do In Nusa Dua

  • Take a glass-bottom boat trip and explore sea life.
  • Watch the sunrise on the beach. The beach is east-orientated, which makes it a perfect place to enjoy an epic sunrise in Bali.
  • Shop at the shopping centre in the Nusa Dua complex and Bali Collection.

PROS

  • Calm sea – excellent for swimmers
  • Family-friendly resorts
  • 30 minutes from the airport

CONS

  • Not ideal if you’re planning to visit other parts of the island because it’s a little remote
  • Not great for surfers

Best Hotels In Nusa Dua

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Sofitel via Booking.com

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.

🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Nusa Dua Beach Hotel via Booking.com

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 furnishings, terrace or balcony. The facilities include a spa, fitness centre and three beautiful pools.


🌟Budget Pick🌟
affordable place to stay in Nusa Dua.
Mahogany Hotel via Booking.com

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.

#7 Sanur – Best For Mature Travellers.

Sanur- one of the best parts of 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 seeking bargain deals

The vibe in Sanur is more chilled and less touristy than in the main areas of Bali, such as Canggu and Seminyak. It is definitely favoured by more mature travellers, 50+, for its local charm, lack of party crowds and cheaper hotel rates

Sanur has a calm sea, perfect for watersports, and it’s an excellent base for visiting the incredible Nusa Islands. 

We come to Sanur during the rainy season (November to April) for surfing when the sea in Canggu is too flat. The shore is still calm, and you need to take a boat to get to the surf break. 

Things To Do In Sanur

  • Visit Sanur Night Market and sample some Balinese street food
  • Watch the sunrise – Sanur Bach is great for that
  • Visit Nusa Penida on a day trip

PROS

  • Excellent base for visiting Nusa Islands and Ubud
  • Great for watersports
  • Plenty of budget accommodation options

CONS

  • Not much going on

Best Places To Stay In Sanur

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Maya Sanur Resort via Booking.com

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.


🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
The Alantara via Booking.com

THE ALANTARA

The hotel is located in the heart of Sanur, close to bars and restaurants and a 5-minute drive to Sanur Beach. It has a pool and restaurant and offers various free activities, including yoga.


🌟BudgetPick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Blanjong Homestay via Booking.com

BLANJONG HOMESTAY

The property is located a 10-minute walk to the nearest beach and a short drive to Sanur Beach. Rooms are simple but are equipped with everything you may need.

#8 Kuta – One Of The Best Areas To Stay In Bali For Mature Travellers.

kuta, best areas to stay in bali

Once a bustling hub for budget travellers, Kuta’s lively streets have mellowed over time. Today, the area is noticeably quieter (almost dead) as the backpacker crowd has shifted their favour towards the trendy and bohemian vibes of Canggu.

Why would you stay in Kuta? Perhaps out of sentiment, or maybe to stay close to the airport on your last night in Bali. If you’re travelling with kids, we can personally recommend Legian and Bali Mandira Resort.

Another benefit of staying in Kuta is extremely well-priced accommodation options, sports bars and cheap eateries. 

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 and cheap accommodation are your priorities, Kuta is your best area to stay in Bali.

Things To Do In Kuta:

  • Have a drink at Sky Garden Lounge, Kuta’s largest nightclub.
  • Feel like a kid at Waterbom Waterpark (we highly recommend it!).

PROS

  • Great for budget accommodation
  • Good surfing for beginners
  • Proximity to airport

CONS

  • It’s passed its best days..
  • Not authentic Bali

Best Places To Stay In Kuta

🌟TOP Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Amnaya Resort via Booking.com

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.


🌟MID-RANGE Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Alam Kulkul via Booking.com

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.


🌟bUDGET Pick🌟
hotels in Kuta
Sulis Beach Hotel via Booking.com

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.

#9 Southeast Bali – Best For Off-Beaten Track Experience.

📍Sidemen – Best For Rice Fields & Balinese Vibes.

Sidemen - best off the beaten track area in Bali.

Sidemen is an up-and-coming area to visit in Bali. It is one of the best areas 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 has lots to offer and is not very touristy, from stunning rice fields and beautiful temples to some incredible viewpoints over Mount Agung.

The best places to stay in Sidemen are super unique and have been built sympathetically with the surrounding environment. We love Sidemen for its incredible bamboo house; we have stayed in quite a few, such as the Camaya and La Puta Bali.

Things To Do In Sidemen

PROS

  • Off-beaten-track experience
  • Great for nature lovers
  • Plenty of unique accommodation

CONS

  • Not much ‘tourist infrastructure’ such as bars and restaurants
  • Remote – over a three-hour drive from Canggu and Seminyak

Best Places To Stay In Sidemen

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
Photo of a luxury hotel in Sidemen taken by blogger Mal hellyer.

SAMANVAYA LUXURY RESORT

This adult-only, eco-friendly resort boasts Mt Agung views and is surrounded by the lush rice fields situated in the heart of Sidemen Valley. The hotel boasts a restaurant, excellent spa facilities and an infinity pool overlooking the tranquil rice paddies. 


🌟Midrange Pick🌟
Vission Villa where Mal Hellyer the editor stayed on her last trip.
Vision Villa Resort via Booking.com

VISION VILLA RESORT

Vision Villa Resort is located in Keramas, only a few minutes drive from Bali’s most famous winery – Sababay. We stayed here on our last trips!


🌟Budget Pick🌟
Darmada Eco Resort - one of the best hotels in Sidemen Bali for budget travellers.
Darmada Eco Resort via Booking.com

DARMADA ECO RESORT

Boasting a natural pool, this eco resort features super picturesque Dutch colonial-style bungalows.

📍Amed – Nicest Place In Bali For Quiet Beach & Snorkelling.

Amed is one of the best places to stay Bali for snorkelling.

Amed is a coastal town situated on the eastern shore of Bali, 97 km from the island’s airport. Amed is famous for its gorgeous black-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs 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 the Gili Islands.

Things To Do In Amed

  • Go snorkelling; Amed have some excellent coral reefs
  • Take a boat to the Gili Islands
  • Visit Pura Lempuyang

PROS

  • Quiet coastal town great for relaxing
  • Excellent base for visiting the Gili Islands
  • Perfect for snorkelling and diving

CONS

  • Remote

Best Places To Stay In Amed

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
best hotels in amed
Life In Amed Hotel via Booking.com

Life In Amed Hotel

This Hotel is situated right on the Amed beach, where you can 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. 


🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Blue Moon Villas via Booking.com

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.

#10 Where To Stay In North Bali?

📍Kintamani – One Of The Best Areas To Stay In Bali For Adventure Seekers.

A temple in Kintamani Bali, which is the best part of Bali to stay for hiking.

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 a sunrise volcano hike to the top of Mt Batur, cycling the rice fields, visiting temples and dipping in the natural volcanic hot spring.

Kintamani is also one of the famous Bali areas for coffee plantations. During your visit make sure to try the famous Luwak Coffe. We also enjoyed the area’s cafes overlooking the volcano. Our favourite is Montana Del Cafe. Also, if you are bothered by the scorching heat, Kintamani is one of Bali best places to stay to enjoy a cooler climate.

Things To Do Kintamani

  • Hike Mount Batur at sunrise
  • Visit Batur Hot Springs
  • Explore Kintamani Village
  • Try Luwak Coffe!

PROS

  • Excellent for adventure seekers
  • Great for experiencing authentic Bali
  • Good for hiking

CONS

  • Remote from any other area in Bali

Best Places To Stay In Kintamani


🌟Midrange Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Villa Jempana via Booking.com

Villa Jempana

Villas Jempana is situated right in front of Batur Lake and has a pool, restaurant and free a la carte breakfast. We stayed here with Robin’s parents and really loved the location and friendly staff.


🌟Budget Pick🌟
best places to stay in kintamani Bali
Batur Volcano Guesthouse via Booking.com

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.

📍Munduk – Best For Exploring Waterfalls.

Munduk Waterfall, Bali.
which areas to stay in Bali for waterfall? Munduk.

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.

Which areas to stay in Bali for coffee plantations, lush waterfalls and mountain viewpoints? Munduk for sure! 

Perhaps surprisingly, Munduk is also one of the best places in Bali to stay for an eco-luxury getaway (more on that below).

Things To Do In Munduk

  • Go waterfall chasing, The best waterfalls in the area include Munduk, Git Git and Aling Aling.
  • Hike the beautiful local rice fields.
  • Visit Pura Ulun Danu Temple
  • Snap a shot at the Instagram-famous Handara Gate.

PROS

  • Excellent area for nature lovers
  • Close to some epic waterfalls

CONS

  • Remote

Best Places To Stay In Munduk

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
best hotels in Munduk Bali
Credit: Munduk Moding

Munduk Moding Plantation

The hotel’s best part is its infinity pool overlooking the working coffee plantation with some incredible sunset views. Guests can enjoy various day activities, spa, gym, and yoga classes.


🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
places to stay in munduk
Munduk Menir Villas via Booking.com

Munduk Menir Villas

Munduk Menir features traditional wooden cottages surrounded by nature and stunning views. The hotel is located within proximity to Munduk’s best waterfalls: 6 km to Munduk Waterfall and 10 km to Git Git Waterfall, and features a large pool and an onsite restaurant.

📍Lovina – Best For Dolphine Spotting.

Lovina

Lovina is a black-sanded beach resort situated in the north of Bali, 93 km from the airport.  

Lovina is known for its excellent coral reefs and dolphin watching. We visited Lovina last year, and did a sunrise dolphin watching trip and we’ve seen so many of them! It was an incredible experience worth your visit, all the way there. 

If you are looking for a quiet beach destination with some unique activities and epic waterfalls, then Lovina is one of the best off-the-beaten track and the best areas to stay in Bali for you. 

Things To Do In Lovina

  • Soak all the worries away in Banjar Hot Springs
  • Visit Bali’s most epic waterfall – Sekumpul
  • Go dolphin-watching

PROS

  • Great for a quiet beach getaway
  • Close to some stunning waterfalls
  • Great for snorkelling

CONS

  • Very remote

Best Places To Stay In Lovina

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
best places to stay in Lovina Bali
The Damai via Booking.com

The Damai

The Damai is a boutique hotel situated in the hills overlooking Lovina Beach. The property offers a range of villas, some villas come with a private pool. There is a beautiful shared swimming pool, a restaurant and a spa for an extra charge.


🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
best areas to stay in Bali
Lilin Lovina Beach Hotel via Booking.com

Lilin Lovina Beach Hotel

This eco-friendly property offers nine villas situated right on the beach, all nicely decorated in a nautical and minimalist fashion, and have private plunge pools and sitting areas.

#11 Nusa Islands – Where To Stay In Bali For 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

Crystal Bay Nusa Penida
Crystal Bay Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is the most popular 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, we highly recommend staying at least one day. Nusa Penida is one of the best areas to stay in Bali Regency for epic beaches – here you can visit Crystal Bay, Diamond Beach and the Instagram-famous Kelinging.

Nusa Penida accommodation options have immensely improved compared to 3 years ago, and now visitors have a broad choice.

Things To Do On Nusa Penida

What to do in Nusa Penida, there is so much! We advise to stay at least 2 days to cover all the must-visit places.

  • Climb down to Kelingking Beach
  • Soak in natural pools of Tembeling
  • Go snorkelling with manta rays
  • Visit Diamond Beach

PROS

  • Unworldly nature & pristine beaches
  • Less touristy feel, especially if you stay overnight
  • Great snorkelling

CONS

  • Poor condition of roads
  • Accessible only by boat

📍Best Places To Stay In Nusa Penida

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
Adiwana Warnakali Resort via Booking.com

ADIWANA WARNAKALI

This luxury hotel is ideal for a romantic stay with sunset views from the epic infinity pool. It is located in the convenient area of Toya Pakeh Harbour, close to restaurants and ferry services.

🌟Budget Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay on Nusa Penida
La Roja Bungalows via Booking.com

La Roja Bungalows

La Roja is located within a 20-minute drive from the harbour on the western coast, a minute’s walk from shops and restaurants. There is a choice of older bungalows and newer ones situated around the pool, simple yet very tastefully designed.

📍Nusa Lembongan

Bali Indonesia 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 quieter but equally stunning. 

There are many great things to do on Nusa Lembongan and the island is more family-friendly compared with Penida. 

Things To Do On Nusa Lembongan

  • Chill on Dream Beach
  • Explore the Mangrove Forest by boat
  • Dine at Mushroom Bay Beach

PROS

  • Perfect for chilling
  • Stunning beaches

CONS

  • Fewer accommodation choices
  • Relatively hard to get to

Best Places To Stay In Nusa Lembongan

Here are the best places to stay on Lembongan Island:


🌟Midrange Pick🌟
Places to stay on Nusa Lembongan
Lembongan Harmony Villas via Booking.com

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.

📍Nusa Ceningan

Blogger Mal on her visit to 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

  • Walk the yellow bridge of love
  • Swim in the Blue Lagoon

PROS

  • Stunning beaches
  • Chilled vibes

CONS

  • The smallest out of three islands which means fewer hotel choices and restaurant options
  • Relatively hard to get to

Best Places To Stay In Nusa Ceningan

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay on Nusa ceningan
Blue Lagoon Avia Villas via Booking.com

Blue Lagoon Avia Villas

Blue Lagoon Avia Villas are located within walking distance of 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.


🌟Midrange Pick🌟
Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas Nusa ceningan
Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas via Booking.com

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.


🌟Budget Pick🌟
Best Areas to Stay on Nusa ceningan
Wooden Beach Sunset Cottages via Booking.com

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.

#12 Gili Islands – Best For Divers & Beach Lovers.

Gili Trawangan

📍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

  • Cycle around the island
  • Snorkel from the Gili shore
  • Watch turtles!

PROS

  • Gili T is the biggest, which comes with the best range of hotels, restaurants and activities

CONS

  • May get busy at peak tourist season

Best Places To Stay On Gili T

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
Pearl of Trawangan Hotel
Pearl of Trawangan via Booking.com

Pearl of Trawangan

Located just a few minutes walk from the main promenade at Gili T, the property boasts a beachfront location and two pools. There are different types of rooms to choose from, some situated in the garden and others facing the beach.


🌟Budget Pick🌟
best places to stay on gili islands
Cinta Cottages via Booking.com

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

  • Stay in luxury accommodation
  • Chill on the beach

PROS

  • Best luxury accommodation out of the three islands

CONS

  • Furthest island
  • More expensive than the other two

Best Places To Stay On Gili Air

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
best places to stay on gili air
Anahata Tropical Private Villas via Booking.com

Anahata Tropical 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.

🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
best hotels on Gili Air
PinkCoco Hotel via Booking.com

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 breakfast and use of bicycles are included in the price.

📍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

  • Swim with turtles
  • Snorkel or dive into the underwater statues

PROS

  • Situated right on the Turtle Point

CONS

  • The smallest of the three islands with not much to do

Best Places To Stay On Gili Meno

🌟Luxury Pick🌟
best places to stay on gili islands
Meno House via Booking.com

Meno House

Meno House is one of the most luxurious hotels in Gili Meno exclusively for adults. The property features beautiful, luxury and modern rooms, a large pool and an onsite restaurant.

🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
best places to stay on gili islands
Le Pirate via Booking.com

Le Pirate Gili Meno

This adults-only hotel features charming blue and white cottages. They are a little small inside but have everything you may need. They also come with a porch area and a hammock.

🌟Mid-range Pick🌟
best places to stay on gili islands
Seri Resort via Booking.com

Seri Resort Gili Meno

The Siri Resort is located right in front of the spot where turtles hang out, and boasts a pool. It’s also only a 5-minute boat ride from the Gili T. The hotel offers small, nautical-style cottages right on the beach.

Best Areas To Stay In Bali: Final Thoughts

We hope this post has given you a clearer picture of the best areas to stay in Bali and helped you pinpoint the ideal area for your stay.

Whether you’re seeking the serene beaches of Nusa Dua, the cultural pulse of Ubud, or the lively streets of Seminyak, Bali has a place that’s just right for you.

As local residents, we love Bali and want our readers to have the best experience. If you have any questions, feel free to either email us or connect with Mal on Instagram! We are here to help!

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