Bali, the Island of Gods, continues to enchant travelers from across the globe, drawing me back time and time again. With each visit, the question of “Where To Stay In Bali” resurfaces, prompting fresh exploration of its diverse regions. To aid fellow adventurers, I’ve compiled this guide to navigate Bali’s distinct areas and pinpoint the perfect accommodation for your dream vacation. Indonesia, celebrated for its affordability, presents an array of options in Bali, from budget-friendly finds to opulent escapes, all while promising exceptional culinary experiences.
Horse riders enjoying the sunset on Seminyak Beach, Bali
Seminyak Beach offers a vibrant coastal experience in Bali.
For those with ample time, I highly recommend dividing your stay to fully appreciate Bali’s varied landscapes and perhaps venture to neighboring Indonesian islands.
Ubud: Bali’s Spiritual and Cultural Heart
Nestled inland amidst rolling hills, Ubud holds a special place in my heart. It’s Bali’s spiritual epicenter, radiating tranquility from its majestic palace and ancient temples. The air is filled with the serenity of yoga retreats and wellness centers. Beyond its spiritual aura, Ubud bursts with culinary delights and a sprawling, vibrant market. While its popularity has surged, partly thanks to “Eat Pray Love,” Ubud retains its captivating charm. A few days in Ubud is essential for any comprehensive Bali itinerary.
Rice paddies and lush rainforest create a serene backdrop around Ubud, Bali.
Shopping enthusiasts can lose themselves for hours in Ubud’s expansive market, a treasure trove of jewelry, clothing, and unique home furnishings. Health-conscious travelers will find paradise in Ubud’s plethora of organic, vegetarian, and vegan restaurants and smoothie bars. (Rest assured, indulgence is also readily available!). Every dining experience in Ubud has been exceptional in my experience.
For a deeper dive, explore our comprehensive Ubud guide.
Lush green rice terraces in Ubud, Bali
Ubud’s iconic rice fields offer a glimpse into Bali’s agricultural heartland.
Ubud serves as an ideal starting point for a Mount Batur sunrise hike. Its closer proximity to the volcano means a slightly less grueling early wake-up call compared to coastal resorts.
Mount Batur volcano, a popular sunrise hike destination from Ubud, Bali.
Where to Stay in Ubud: Accommodation for Every Budget
My Ubud stays have ranged from affordable guesthouses to lavish resorts. For convenience, I suggest accommodations near the town center, allowing easy exploration on foot, or hotels providing complimentary shuttle services.
Budget: Pertiwi Bisma 1 is a personal favorite, boasting a central location, pool, and captivating rainforest vistas. Meruhdani Boutique Hotel Ubud and Jati Cottage are also centrally located gems with pools. Unique Homestay offers excellent value for budget travelers.
Mid-range/Luxury: For immersive rainforest luxury, complete with Instagram-worthy pools, jungle resorts are the ultimate choice. Opt for those with shuttle services for town access, such as The Kayon Resort. It’s my top Ubud recommendation, seamlessly blending paradise retreat with town accessibility. Read my detailed review of The Kayon Resort.
Luxury: Bisma Eight, a mere 15-minute stroll from Ubud’s center, presents contemporary suites and villas. Rooms feature Japanese soaking tubs and separate living spaces, while villas boast private pools. The resort also offers a temperature-controlled outdoor pool, garden, sun terrace, and library.
Luxury: For unparalleled opulence, Four Seasons Sayan is in a league of its own. My stay here a few years ago was nothing short of extraordinary, with an incredible villa featuring a private plunge pool. Its proximity to town ensures convenience alongside extravagance. Explore my review of Four Seasons Sayan.
An infinity pool seamlessly blends into the lush Ubud jungle at The Kayon Resort, Bali
The Kayon Resort in Ubud offers luxurious jungle immersion with stunning infinity pool views.
After the enriching experience of Ubud, the allure of Bali’s beaches beckons.
Seminyak or Canggu: Beach Vibes and Coastal Charm
For many, the southwest coast, encompassing Canggu and Seminyak, becomes the chosen beach destination. Seminyak exudes upscale coastal sophistication with its high-end resorts, gourmet dining, and chic boutiques. Canggu, in contrast, embraces a more laid-back atmosphere, renowned for its excellent surf breaks, vibrant beach bars and clubs, and a thriving arts scene. Wellness and yoga studios are also abundant in Canggu.
For those seeking a lively party scene, Kuta is worth considering. While I personally find it a bit too frenetic, it’s undeniably a bustling hub with countless bars and a high-energy atmosphere, perfect for unforgettable nights out.
Canggu’s vibrant beach scene, Bali, known for its surf and relaxed atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Seminyak: Sophistication by the Sea
Budget: Amerta Seminyak is conveniently located a short walk from the beach and features an outdoor pool, bar, restaurant, and garden. Rooms are air-conditioned with private bathrooms, and amenities include free WiFi and bike rentals.
Mid-range: The Bali Niksoma Boutique Beach Resort, situated directly on Legian Beach, offers two swimming pools, a spa, beachfront bar and restaurant, complimentary WiFi, and parking.
Luxury: Seminyak Beach Resort is a stunning beachfront property, highlighted by an incredible ocean-view infinity pool. The resort boasts a top-tier spa and wellness center, diverse dining and bar options, and a range of accommodations, including suites and villas with hot tubs and ocean views. Relaxing poolside here was a highlight of my Seminyak experience.
The stunning infinity pool overlooking Seminyak Beach at Seminyak Beach Resort, Bali
Seminyak Beach Resort’s infinity pool offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
Seminyak Resort provides luxurious beachfront accommodations in Bali.
Where to Stay in Canggu: Laid-back Coastal Cool
Budget: D’djabu Villas Canggu features an outdoor pool and garden, located near Batu Bolong Beach and Echo Beach. Air-conditioned rooms include private bathrooms, and free WiFi is accessible throughout the property.
Budget: Serenity Eco Guesthouse is a holistic retreat a mere 150 meters from the beach, offering meditation, massage, a 14-meter outdoor pool, a permaculture garden, and daily yoga sessions. Dorm and private room options are available.
Mid-range: The Clifton Canggu Seaside Villas offer private pools, complimentary private parking, and free WiFi. Air-conditioned one-bedroom villas include access to a shared kitchen, with bicycle and car rental services available.
Luxury: Blossom Eco Luxe Villas by Ekosistem are centrally located in Canggu, close to Canggu Beach and Old Man Beach Club. One and two-bedroom villas feature private pools and gardens and are sustainably powered by solar energy.
[Image of Blossom Eco Luxe Villas by Ekosistem in Canggu, Bali.]
Bali East Coast: Tranquility and Diving Hotspots
Sanur: Family-Friendly Shores and Sunrise Views
On Bali’s southeast coast lies Sanur, a peaceful town dotted with excellent restaurants, including traditional local “warungs”. Its sheltered beach makes it ideal for families. Facing east, Sanur is also perfectly positioned for witnessing stunning sunrises.
Where to Stay in Sanur: Relaxed Coastal Retreats
Budget: Yulia 1, a charming bed and breakfast, is located near Segara Beach. Amenities include a pool and garden, and all rooms have private bathrooms.
Mid-range: Peneeda View Beach Hotel was the setting for a wonderful holiday of mine, featuring four pools and direct beach access.
Luxury: Beachfront Tandjung Sari Hotel is a traditional Balinese-style property with an open-air restaurant and bar, offering an authentic cultural experience.
Sanur’s serene beach at sunrise, Bali, a perfect spot for families and peaceful getaways.
Amed: Diver’s Paradise and Underwater Wonders
Divers should gravitate towards Amed, gateway to the renowned Liberty Wreck dive site. This historic ship, torpedoed during WWII, eventually sank after volcanic activity shifted it from the shore.
A diver explores the vibrant coral and marine life around the Liberty Wreck in Amed, Bali
Exploring the Liberty Wreck in Amed, Bali, a world-class dive site teeming with marine biodiversity.
Where to Stay in Amed: Basecamps for Underwater Exploration
Budget: Jukung Dive Bali Resort is an excellent choice for divers, offering a lovely pool and proximity to Jemeluk Beach. Rooms are air-conditioned with private bathrooms, and free WiFi and parking are provided.
Mid-range: Bali Dream House is a waterfront property featuring elegant standalone villas nestled in tropical gardens. Amenities include an ocean-view pool, a restaurant serving fresh seafood, and daily Continental breakfast.
Luxury: MATHIS Lodge Amed offers stunning ocean views from its lodge rooms and restaurant. Select rooms include private pools or hot tubs. This Balinese-style resort also boasts an impressive infinity pool.
For more diving insights, explore my guide to diving in Amed.
The Bukit Peninsula: Luxury and Surf Havens
Nusa Dua: Exclusive Enclaves and Pristine Beaches
For luxury resort experiences, Nusa Dua is the destination of choice, showcasing high-end and all-inclusive Bali hotels. Its beautiful, reef-protected beaches are ideal for families, offering calm waters. While Nusa Dua has a more secluded ambiance, it’s perfect for those seeking pure relaxation.
Where to Stay in Nusa Dua: Indulge in Luxury
Budget: Kubu Garden Suites & Villas Nusa Dua provides en-suite, air-conditioned rooms with private terraces. A pool is available, and it’s a short walk to restaurants, bars, and the nearest beach.
Mid-range: Beachfront Melia Bali features a vast lagoon swimming pool and lush tropical gardens. Five restaurants offer diverse cuisines, and a wide range of activities are available, from water sports to kids’ clubs.
Luxury: Nusa Dua is replete with luxury options, including the dramatic cliffside Apurva Kempinski Bali. This 5-star resort boasts an impressive 60m pool, and some rooms feature private pools. The hotel also includes a spa and eight restaurants and bars, including a unique aquarium dining experience.
[Image of Apurva Kempinski Bali’s grand architectural design and oceanfront setting in Nusa Dua.]
Uluwatu: Cliffside Drama and Surfer’s Paradise
Uluwatu is another personal favorite. For experienced surfers in Bali, Uluwatu is unmatched. Dramatic cliffs descend to the beach, lined with vibrant bars. It’s home to the iconic Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple perched on the cliffs, and its resident monkey population. Uluwatu has also recently emerged as a health and fitness hub with numerous gyms and yoga studios.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the ocean in Uluwatu, Bali.
A playful monkey at Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple in Bali
Monkeys are a common sight around Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple, adding to its unique charm.
Uluwatu sunsets are legendary, best enjoyed from a cliffside bar, watching surfers ride the waves as the sun dips below the horizon.
Uluwatu’s breathtaking coastline at sunset, Bali, a surfer’s haven and scenic paradise.
Uluwatu Beach framed by dramatic cliffs, Bali
Uluwatu Beach’s stunning landscape, defined by towering cliffs and golden sands.
Where to Stay in Uluwatu: Cliffside Views and Coastal Chic
Uluwatu offers a plethora of stunning accommodations, from charming cliffside guesthouses to luxurious resorts.
Budget: Uluwatu Breeze Village is a short walk from Padang Padang Beach. It features a pool, and rooms include air conditioning, mosquito nets, and private bathrooms.
Mid-range: The Elementum is conveniently located near Dreamland Beach, Cemongkak Beach, and Bingin Beach. It offers an outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace, bar, and restaurant.
Luxury: Anantara Uluwatu, where I enjoyed a memorable stay, boasts a magnificent infinity pool and direct beach access via a private lift!
Read my review of Anantara Uluwatu for more insights.
Anantara Uluwatu’s luxurious cliffside setting and panoramic ocean views, Bali.
Powered by GetYourGuide
Bali North Coast: Seclusion and Natural Beauty
For a tranquil escape, Bali’s north coast offers smaller hotels and fewer tourist crowds.
Lovina: Dolphin Encounters and Volcanic Sands
Lovina is a collection of villages stretching along 8km of coastline. Its volcanic black and grey sand beaches contrast with the south. Lovina is famous for its resident bottlenose dolphins and the nearby Banjar Hot Springs, a popular relaxation spot.
Relaxing in the therapeutic waters of Banjar Hot Springs, Bali
Banjar Hot Springs in Lovina, Bali, offering a natural and relaxing spa experience.
Where to Stay in Lovina: Northern Bali Serenity
Budget: Puri Bali Hotel provides excellent value with a pool and gardens, a short walk from Lovina Beach. Rooms are air-conditioned with private bathrooms, and the hotel features a restaurant and free WiFi.
Mid-range: The Grand Villandra Resort boasts a beautiful ocean-view swimming pool set in lovely gardens, along with a hot tub, restaurant, lounge, free WiFi, and bicycle rentals.
Luxury: Lata Lama offers one, two, and three-bedroom villas with private pools near the beach. Villas include kitchens for self-catering, and breakfast can be delivered to your room. Complimentary bicycle hire is also provided.
Nusa Lembongan: Island Escape Just Off Bali
If time allows during your Bali holiday, venturing to the Nusa Islands is a must. Nusa Lembongan is easily accessible by a 40-minute boat trip from Bali, perfect for a day trip or a longer stay. Transport on Nusa Lembongan is limited to scooters or golf buggies, adding to its laid-back island vibe. For boat transfers, I recommend Tanis Express, which docks at the picturesque Mushroom Beach.
The idyllic shores of Mushroom Beach, Nusa Lembongan, Bali
Mushroom Beach in Nusa Lembongan, Bali, a beautiful bay with white sand and clear waters.
Where to Stay on Nusa Lembongan: Island Paradise Found
Mushroom Beach and Jungutbatu Beach are ideal bases on Nusa Lembongan, both lined with “warungs”, restaurants, and varied accommodations.
Budget: The Nau Home offers air-conditioned double rooms in Mushroom Bay. This guesthouse features a pool, free WiFi, and easy access to bars and restaurants.
Mid-range: Bay Shore Huts are nestled in tropical gardens with ocean views. An outdoor pool and a restaurant serving Indonesian and Western dishes, including fresh seafood, are available.
Luxury: Aqua Nusa – Luxury Lembongan Villas offers incredible views over Lembongan’s surf breaks. Villas range from one to three bedrooms and include private pools, kitchens, and separate lounges. Coconut Beach and Jungut Batu Harbour are within easy walking distance.
Nusa Ceningan: Rustic Charm and Cliffside Views
Adjacent to Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan is accessible via a distinctive yellow pedestrian bridge. It exudes a rustic, tranquil ambiance reminiscent of Canggu years ago. Stunning clifftop and beachfront dining and drink spots abound. Scooters are the primary mode of transport. To reach Nusa Ceningan, take a ferry to Nusa Lembongan and then cross the yellow bridge. For boat travel, Rocky Fast Cruise is recommended, docking closer to the bridge at Telatak Village.
An infinity pool perched on Ceningan Cliffs, Nusa Ceningan, Bali
Ceningan Cliffs in Nusa Ceningan, Bali, offering dramatic coastal scenery and stunning infinity pool locations.
Where to Stay on Nusa Ceningan: Island Getaway
Budget: Beachfront Wooden Beach Sunset Cottages offers air-conditioned rooms with outdoor showers. Breakfast is available at this family-run establishment, and free WiFi is included.
Mid-range: The Palms Ceningan Hotel is a waterfront property overlooking a prime surf break. All rooms, the swimming pool, and the restaurant boast ocean views. Staff can assist with diving and surfing trips and bike rentals.
Luxury: Blue Lagoon Avia Villa offers one and two-bedroom villas with private pools and stunning ocean views from the bar and restaurant. A complimentary shuttle service to and from the Yellow Bridge is available with advance booking.
[Image of Blue Lagoon Avia Villa’s private pool and ocean view setting in Nusa Ceningan.]
Nusa Penida: Untamed Beauty and Diving Adventures
Larger and less frequented than Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan, Nusa Penida retains a more authentic Balinese character and is renowned for its diving. Nusa Penida offers a glimpse into traditional Balinese life.
Nusa Penida’s rugged coastline and natural beauty, Bali, an island of adventure and cultural immersion.
Compared to its sister islands and mainland Bali, Nusa Penida is less developed, making it ideal for a traditional Balinese experience. Reach Nusa Penida via a speedboat from Sanur (30 minutes) or by boat from Nusa Lembongan.
Divers and snorkelers flock to Nusa Penida to encounter Manta Rays year-round and Mola Mola (Sunfish) between August and November.
A majestic manta ray gracefully swims off the coast of Nusa Penida, Bali
Manta rays are a major attraction for divers and snorkelers visiting Nusa Penida, Bali.
For more diving information, explore my guide to diving in Nusa Penida.
Where to Stay on Nusa Penida: Island Exploration Base
Budget: Nusa Majesty Bungalows are excellent budget accommodations, close to the beach, dive shops, and a great coffee shop. Amenities include a pool, garden, bar, free parking, and WiFi. Rooms are air-conditioned with private bathrooms.
Mid-range: Kabeh Jati Garden Villa & Restaurant features a unique guitar-shaped swimming pool! The resort offers a bar and restaurant, with double rooms and two-story triangle houses available.
Luxury: Pramana Natura Nusa Penida, set on a hillside overlooking the ocean, provides an outdoor swimming pool, garden, restaurant, and bar. Suites and villas all offer sea views, some with private pools, and breakfast is included.
Nusa Majesty Bungalows in Nusa Penida, Bali, offering budget-friendly and comfortable island stays.
For day trips to the Nusa Islands, consider return boat crossings to Nusa Lembongan or Penida or join an organized boat tour that visits both islands, often including snorkeling opportunities.
Lombok: Bali’s Neighbor with Unique Charms
A short distance west lies Lombok, an Indonesian island offering beautiful beaches, an active volcano, and excellent hiking. While not technically in Bali, Lombok makes a fantastic extension to a Bali trip.
Lombok’s stunning beaches and natural landscapes, Indonesia, offering a different island experience near Bali.
Lombok presents a contrast to Bali. Though similar in size, Lombok is less developed, less touristy, and boasts better roads. Islam is the dominant religion in Lombok, offering a different cultural perspective while retaining a similar relaxed island vibe.
Senggigi, on Lombok’s west coast, features beautiful beaches, smaller high-end hotels, and a mix of sophisticated and local dining options.
Kuta Lombok, in the south, is a renowned surfing destination with long beaches lined with “warungs” where you can rent boards and arrange boat trips to surf breaks.
Northern Lombok showcases incredible waterfalls like Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep and excellent hiking trails.
Reaching Lombok from Bali by speedboat takes approximately 2.5 hours, or you can opt for a quicker sub-hour flight.
Lombok sunset casting vibrant colors across the sky, Indonesia, showcasing the island’s scenic beauty.
Where to Stay in Lombok: Island Variety
Budget: Ibludan Hotel, south of Senggigi, offers an outdoor pool and garden. Rooms are air-conditioned with free WiFi and private bathrooms, and breakfast is included.
Mid-range: Jeeva Santai Villas on Mangsit Beach features suites and villas with private pools. A two-story restaurant and bar, and a pool with sea views, are available. All rooms are air-conditioned and include WiFi.
Luxury: The Chandi Boutique Resort & Spa in Senggigi offers ocean views, a pool, spa, restaurant, and beach bar. It’s a short drive from Senggigi’s center.
[Image of The Chandi Boutique Resort & Spa’s beachfront setting and luxurious amenities in Lombok.]
The Gili Islands: Paradise Found Off Lombok
Just off Lombok’s coast are the Gili Islands: Gili Trawangan (Gili T), Gili Air , and Gili Meno.
These tiny, car-free paradise islands boast white sand beaches, each with a unique appeal. Gili Trawangan is the most vibrant, with numerous bars and hotels (still low-key). Gili Air is quieter and more relaxed, while Gili Meno is the smallest and most secluded, offering a true desert island feel.
The Gili Islands’ pristine beaches and turquoise waters, Indonesia, a tropical haven near Bali and Lombok.
Travel to the Gili Islands from Bali by boat takes a couple of hours (flying via Lombok is also an option). Allow a buffer day in Bali before your outbound flight due to potential travel delays, as Indonesian boats and buses are rarely punctual.
Panoramic view of the Gili Islands, Indonesia, showcasing their stunning turquoise waters and white sand beaches.
The Gili Islands, Indonesia, a trio of idyllic islands offering diverse island experiences.
Where to Stay on the Gili Islands: Island Hopping Delights
Budget: Sejuk Cottages on Gili Air are near the beach and feature an outdoor pool. Bungalows are traditionally Indonesian-style, with air conditioning and private bathrooms.
Mid-range: Pearl of Trawangan on Gili Trawangan is a beachfront property with a beautiful landscaped pool and swim-up bar, close to Gili T’s bars, restaurants, and market.
Luxury: Cocana Resort Gili Trawangan, a 5-star resort, offers a private beach area, gardens, bar, restaurant, and terrace. Some rooms have direct pool access, and villas feature private pools.
Getting to Bali: Your Journey Begins
For travelers from Europe, flights to Bali typically involve a stopover, often in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Jakarta. While the journey may be long, the reward of Bali is immeasurable. From Australia, direct flights are readily available, making Bali an easily accessible paradise.
