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Nusa Dua Beach
Whether you’re a beach lover, adventurer, surfer, yogi, or culture seeker, Bali offers something for everyone. But it is a big island and with so many incredible areas to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where to stay.
So, after 2 solo trips to Bali in 2022 and 2023, for 2 weeks and one month respectively, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide on the best areas to stay in Bali for first-time visitors.
This article breaks down the top areas to stay in Bali based on their unique vibe and things to do, complete with pros and cons, recommendations on who they’re best for, and my favorite hotels.
Ready to start planning your Bali adventure? Let’s get into it!
Read More:
- A Perfect Bali 2-Week Itinerary for Wellness & Culture
- The Best Yoga Retreats in Bali
- Best Yoga Teacher Training in Bali
- 10 Best Wellness Things to Do in Lombok, Indonesia
- 10 Best Wellness Things to Do in Timor-Leste + Travel Guide
Best Area to Stay in Bali Overall: Canggu
Canggu is the perfect combination of trendy cafes, bustling nightlife, great surfing spots, top yoga studios, and lush rice paddies. Its laid-back vibe makes it an all-around favorite for first-timers who want a mix of relaxation and activity.
It’s hands down my favorite area to stay in Bali as a solo traveler, yogi, and surfer wannabe who enjoys the occasional night out.
If you have to choose only one area to stay in Bali, Canggu is the ideal combination of what Bali is all about. You can also easily take day trips from Canggu to other areas on the island, like Uluwatu, Nusa Dua, or even Ubud.
Depending on the length of your trip, I do recommend basing yourself on 2 or 3 different locations around the island though. This way you can see different sides of Bali and make the most of your time without driving long distances and facing hectic traffic every single day. Check out my perfect Bali 2-week itinerary here.
Best Areas to Stay in South Bali
South Bali is the island’s most popular and vibrant region, offering a diverse range of experiences, from stunning beaches and gorgeous surf and yoga retreats to lively nightlife and rich cultural experiences.
Canggu: For Eclectic Travelers & Digital Nomads
Canggu is a favorite among first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, myself included. It blends hip cafes, lively nightlife, serene rice fields, and surf-ready beaches. Whether you’re in Bali for work, relaxation, or adventure, Canggu delivers.
Why Stay in Canggu?
Surfing Paradise: Echo Beach and Batu Bolong offer some of the best surfing spots on the island.
Yoga and Wellness: The Practice is my favorite yoga studio in all of Bali, while Spring Spa is the perfect place to pamper yourself after a day of adventures.
Food Scene: The town is dotted with trendy and delicious cafes and restaurants serving everything from vegan bowls to hearty burgers.
Community: A bustling digital nomad scene with plenty of co-working spaces and work-friendly cafes.
Pros:
- Energetic yet laid-back atmosphere.
- Close to key attractions like Tanah Lot Temple.
- Vibrant nightlife with beach bars like Old Man’s and La Brisa.
Cons:
- Increasingly crowded, especially in peak season.
- Traffic congestion is a growing issue.
Who is it for?
Surfers, yogis, digital nomads, and travelers who enjoy a mix of nature and nightlife.
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury: The Slow – A boutique stay blending contemporary design with local art.
Mid-Range: Aston Canggu Beach Resort – Stylish beachfront hotel with a rooftop pool. Watching the sunset from here is one of my favorite things to do in Canggu!
Budget: The Chillhouse – Affordable with a yoga and surf-inspired vibe. I stayed here for 3 weeks in 2023 and felt at home!
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- The Chillhouse
Seminyak: For Luxury & Nightlife
Seminyak is where style meets sophistication. Known for its high-end resorts, designer boutiques, and gourmet dining, this area offers an elevated Bali experience.
Why Stay in Seminyak?
Shopping Paradise: Jalan Kayu Aya and surrounding streets are filled with boutiques selling everything from designer clothing to handcrafted goods.
Nightlife: Enjoy cocktails at Potato Head Beach Club or dance at Motel Mexicola.
Beachfront Relaxation: Seminyak Beach offers chic beach clubs and gorgeous sunsets.
Pros:
- Excellent dining and nightlife options.
- Stylish accommodation and luxurious resorts.
- Great for socializing and meeting fellow travelers.
Cons:
- Relatively expensive.
- Beaches can get crowded and aren’t as pristine as other areas.
Who is it for?
Couples, honeymooners, and those looking for luxury and vibrant nightlife.
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury: W Bali – Seminyak – Iconic for its design and beachside location.
Mid-Range: Viva Dash Hotel Seminyak – A colorful, funky hotel near the action.
Budget: Stellar Capsules – Trendy and affordable with social vibes.
Kuta & Legian: For Budget & Party Seekers
Kuta and Legian are Bali’s original tourist hotspots, known for their affordability and vibrant party scene.
Why Stay in Kuta or Legian?
Convenience: Close to Ngurah Rai Airport, making it a popular choice for quick stays.
Nightlife Hub: Clubs like Sky Garden offer multi-floor entertainment.
Family Fun: Attractions like Waterbom Bali provide entertainment for kids.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly accommodation.
- Central location for excursions to other parts of South Bali and the island.
- Thriving nightlife for party lovers.
Cons:
- Overcrowded and noisy.
- Beaches aren’t as clean or serene as others on the island.
Who is it for?
Backpackers, budget travelers, and nightlife enthusiasts.
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury: Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort – Upscale beachfront property.
Mid-Range: The ONE Legian – Modern amenities with a lively atmosphere.
Budget: M Boutique Hostel Legian – Perfect for social travelers on a budget.
Uluwatu: For Surfers & Seclusion
On Padang-Padand Beach, Uluwatu
Perched on Bali’s southern cliffs, Uluwatu offers dramatic landscapes, world-class surf, and a relaxed vibe away from the crowds. I loved staying here in 2023, although it felt a bit more posh and expensive than Canggu.
Why Stay in Uluwatu?
Surf Haven: Waves like those at Padang Padang and Uluwatu Beach attract advanced surfers.
Scenic Beauty: Uluwatu’s clifftop views, incredible sunsets, and beautiful beaches are unparalleled.
Spiritual Vibes: Visit Uluwatu Temple for traditional Balinese dances and panoramic vistas.
Pros:
- Quiet and less commercialized.
- Stunning beaches for surfers and photographers alike.
- Cliffside dining at iconic spots like Single Fin.
Cons:
- Requires transportation to explore as beaches and attractions are spread out.
- Limited accommodation, shopping, and nightlife compared to Canggu, Seminyak, or Kuta.
Who is it for?
Surfers, honeymooners, and travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury: Alila Villas Uluwatu – World-class service and breathtaking views.
Mid-Range: The Room Padang-Padang – A charming and friendly boutique hotel near Padang Padang Beach that I didn’t want to leave, ever!
Budget: Bingin Inn – Cozy and affordable near surf spots.
Nusa Dua: For Families & Luxury Seekers
Nusa Dua is Bali’s luxury haven, offering pristine beaches (Nusa Dua Beach is one of the best on the island in my opinion) and exclusive resorts.
Why Stay in Nusa Dua?
Family-Friendly: Safe, calm waters and resorts with kids’ clubs make it ideal for families.
Luxury Living: World-class resorts with spa treatments and private beaches.
Activities: Golf courses and cultural performances provide entertainment for all ages.
Pros:
- Peaceful and quiet, far from the hustle and bustle.
- Ideal for relaxation and pampering.
- Excellent for families with children.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Limited cultural or local experiences.
Who is it for?
Families, mature travelers, and those seeking luxury in a serene setting.
On Nusa Dua Beach
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury: The Apurva Kempinski Bali – Renowned for its opulence and service.
Mid-Range: Courtyard by Marriott Bali Nusa Dua Resort – Great amenities at a reasonable price.
Budget: Ion Bali Benoa – Affordable with easy beach access.
Sanur: For Peace & Relaxation
Sanur is the epitome of calm, making it a favorite for older travelers and families. It’s also the getaway for the nearby islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, which was the main reason I stayed here for 3 nights on my first visit to Bali and ended up loving the area.
Why Stay in Sanur?
Calm Waters: Perfect for swimming and water sports.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Quiet streets and a scenic beachfront promenade.
Local Culture: Explore markets and enjoy traditional cuisine.
Pros:
- Uncrowded and peaceful.
- Family-friendly activities.
- Excellent for cycling and long walks along the beach.
Cons:
- Limited nightlife.
- Not as trendy as Canggu or Seminyak.
Who is it for?
Families and travelers seeking tranquility.
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury: Andaz Bali, By Hyatt – High-end luxury with Balinese charm.
Mid-Range: The 101 Bali Oasis Sanur – Affordable luxury in a central location. One of my favorite hotels in Bali!
Budget: Puri Mesari Hotel – Simple, clean, and close to the beach.
Best Area to Stay in Central Bali
Nestled between the bustling southern beaches and the serene northern highlands, this area is known for its lush landscapes, terraced rice fields, and picturesque mountain villages.
Ubud: For Cultural & Spiritual Travelers
Relaxing amidst Ubud’s rice fields
Ubud is the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional villages. Its unique energy makes it a mandatory stop in any Bali itinerary.
Why Stay in Ubud?
Cultural Immersion: Ubud is home to temples, art galleries, and traditional Balinese dance performances.
Nature Retreat: Explore iconic spots like Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Campuhan Ridge Walk.
Wellness & Spiritual Mecca: Renowned for yoga studios and holistic wellness retreats.
Pros:
- Authentic Balinese culture.
- Stunning natural landscapes.
- Wellness-focused atmosphere.
Cons:
- Not close to beaches.
- Crowded in the town center.
Who is it for?
Nature enthusiasts, culture seekers, yogis, and wellness travelers.
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury: COMO Uma Ubud – A wellness-focused luxury retreat.
Mid-Range: Anumana Ubud – Comfortable and close to Monkey Forest.
Budget: Pertiwi Bisma Ubud – With spacious rooms, beautiful gardens, and two swimming pools, this place offers amazing value for money. Absolutely loved it!
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- Pertiwi Bisma Ubud
Enjoying the infinity pool at Pertiwi Bisma Ubud
Best Area to Stay in East Bali
Less developed than the island’s southern areas, East Bali offers a more authentic and quiet stay. The landscape here is diverse, with towering mountains, picturesque rice terraces, and pristine beaches.
Amed: For Snorkeling & Diving
Amed is an undisturbed coastal town known for its diving spots and black sandy beaches.
Why Stay in Amed?
Marine Life: Explore coral reefs and shipwrecks, perfect for divers and snorkelers.
Tranquility: Escape the crowds and enjoy a still, village-like atmosphere.
Stunning Views: Watch the sunrise over Mount Agung from the beach.
Pros:
- Quiet and less commercialized.
- Amazing underwater experiences.
- Scenic landscapes and authentic Balinese charm.
Cons:
- Remote and far from main attractions.
- Limited dining and nightlife options.
Who is it for?
Divers, snorkelers, and travelers seeking a serene escape.
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury: The Griya Villas and Spa – Private pool villas with stunning views.
Mid-Range: Hidden Paradise Cottages – Peaceful and charming beachfront stay.
Budget: Amed Harmony Bungalows and Villas – Affordable with a local vibe.
Best Area to Stay in North Bali
With its beautiful black sandy beaches, lush jungles, scenic mountains, and authentic charm, North Bali is a hidden gem for those looking to experience Bali away from the tourist track.
Lovina: For Off the Beaten Path Travelers
Lovina is a peaceful area with black sandy beaches, dolphin-watching tours, and relaxed vibes.
Why Stay in Lovina?
Dolphin Tours: Early morning trips to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
Hot Springs: Relax at Banjar Hot Springs.
Affordable: Great value for money for accommodation and dining.
Pros:
- Quiet and unspoiled.
- Unique activities not found in South Bali.
- Affordable accommodation.
Cons:
- Remote and less accessible.
- Limited nightlife and modern amenities.
Who is it for?
Off the beaten path travelers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury: The Damai – Eco-friendly luxury in a serene setting.
Mid-Range: Puri Bagus Lovina – Balinese-style resort with ocean views.
Budget: Ju’Blu Hotel – Affordable and close to the beach.
Each region of Bali offers its own unique experiences, catering to a wide variety of travelers. Whether you prefer the trendy vibes of Canggu, the luxury of Nusa Dua, the cultural immersion of Ubud, or the serene beauty of Amed and Lovina, Bali has something special for you.
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More travel tips
Travel Insurance
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Cheap flights
Looking for the best airfare deals? Skyscanner is my favorite travel search engine for finding cheap flights around the world. They also offer price tracking and alerts to help you secure the best deals.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation, Booking.com is the best site out there. From hotels to apartments, resorts, villas, B&B, and guest houses, it offers the best prices for accommodation all over the world. I book the vast majority of my stays through them.
Yoga Retreats
Looking for a yoga retreat near home or in an exotic destination? BookYogaRetreats offers the best yoga retreats, holidays, and courses around the world for all budgets and levels of experience.
Tours
GetYourGuide is my favorite platform for local tours, unique experiences, and skip-the-line tickets to attractions all around the world.
Klook is another great resource for tours and activities, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Asia.
Car Rentals
Booking.com has a car rental search engine that compares the biggest brands in car hire and allows you to find the cheapest deals all around the world.
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