The Best Areas to Stay in Bali: Which is Right For You?
Post Updated: March 19, 2025
Over the past 10 years Bali has become my home away from home. Because I’ve had the chance to spend so much time on Indonesia’s most popular little island I’ve come to know Bali very well. Despite the fact that it is a relatively small island, there are actually a lot of different places to stay in Bali. And the confusing part is that they are all really different.
So if you’re planning your first trip and you’re confused about where to stay in Bali, hopefully this will give you a little insight. Whether you’re looking to be surrounded by stunning rice terraces, live the high life in a luxurious oceanfront villa, surf the days away or party the nights away, Bali really does have something for everyone!
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The Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Kuta
Some people love Kuta and others loathe it. As for me, I’m somewhere in the middle. Kuta is basically the tourist epicenter of Bali. It’s definitely the place where people go to party hard. But Kuta does have a lot going for it.
There is a reason I tend to book a couple nights here to start and end my trips to Bali. Given its proximity to the airport, Kuta is a great place for budget travelers to either kick off their trip or even to base themselves. It’s super cheap, there are great restaurants, nightlife and shopping, and it’s walking distance to the beach. If you’re looking to be in the center of it all during your Bali trip and stick to a budget, then Kuta might just be the place for you.
Who’s it good for: Budget travelers, backpackers, beginner surfers and party-goers. It’s also super close to the airport so it’s great for anyone heading in or out of Bali.
Hotel recommendation: Kuta Seaview Boutique Resort is a highly-rated boutique resort set right across the street from the beach and in the heart of all the shops and restaurants of Kuta. Expect Balinese-style rooms, a lush pool area, and amenities galore (rooms start at $60).
Seminyak
Seminyak is where most people stay during their Bali vacations. People talk about Seminyak like it’s worlds away from Kuta, but it’s literally located a few kilometers up the beach. That being said it does have a distinctly different vibe.
Things definitely feel a lot more upscale in Seminyak versus Kuta. The beach is a bit cleaner and a little less crowded. The hotels, shopping and nightlife are much more high-end, as are the resorts, many of which are 5-star. So if you’re looking to live it up during your Bali vacation, Seminyak is an excellent choice. It is a great place to lounge by the hotel pool, dine at international restaurants, shop at trendy boutiques and hit the beach clubs.
Who’s it good for: Pretty much anyone looking to lounge in luxury. While you can stay in Seminyak on any budget, the more money you spend here, the more fun you’re likely going to have!
Hotel recommendation: For a boutique resort in Seminyak, Kayumas Seminyak Resort is a great pick for its loft-style suites with a bedroom on the ground floor and a living room in the mezzanine, as well as a private courtyard with a personal plunge pool (suites start at $100). You’ll also get access to the on-site swimming pool and swim-up pool bar, fully outfitted gym, and complimentary yoga classes.
Canggu
Canggu is definitely the new ‘it’ place in Bali – and for good reason. Located 10 kilometers up the coast from Seminyak, Canggu is one of the best areas to stay in Bali for the party-centric crowd.
It is home to stunning beaches (and rice terraces), excellent shopping and arguably the best cafés and restaurants on the island. Canggu has become a haven for digital nomads, hipsters and surfers in recent years and offers a much more youthful beach town vibe than either Seminyak or Kuta. It’s also a prime spot for vegetarians and vegans with its seemingly endless selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants!
It’s an incredibly appealing place to chill and stay for days, weeks or even months. I’ve done this on numerous occasions!
Who’s it good for: Digital nomads and long-term travelers, beach lovers, surfers and yoga enthusiasts.
Hotel recommendation: The Komu is an ultra-cool boutique hotel located just down the road from the famous Barawa Beach and Finn’s Beach Club in Canggu. Rooms range from chic studios to luxe suites with private pools. No matter which you choose, you’ll have access to the spectacular rooftop pool, gym, and Mexican-fusion restaurant. (Rooms start at $100.)
Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is located on the eastern side of the Bukit Peninsula on the very southern tip of Bali. It’s only about a 30-minute drive from Kuta and Seminyak but it is completely different. With its fancy resorts, Nusa Dua is one of the best areas to stay in Bali for a more upscale, family-oriented getaway.
It’s a great place for those who want a bit more of a relaxing, yet luxurious, vacation away from the crowds of Kuta and Seminyak. There’s not really all that much to do in Nusa Dua aside from relaxing at your hotel pool or private beach and dining in one of the excellent restaurants in town.
Who’s it good for: Families, honeymooners and anyone who’s looking for a resort-oriented vacation.
Hotel recommendation: When in Nusa Dua, you can’t go wrong with a stay at oceanfont Apurva Kempinski Bali. This spectacular 5-star property boasts luxury rooms and suites (many with amazing ocean views), incredible bars and restaurants, a luxury spa with indigenous treatments, and basically every 5-star amenity you can think of! (Rooms start at $350.)
Sanur
Sanur is located on a lovely stretch of beach in Southern Bali and it’s an incredibly popular destination for families and retirees. Yes, it’s nicknamed “snore,” but despite the moniker, there is plenty to do here, no matter your age or interests.
Sanur might not be as party-centric as Kuta or Canggu but there is an abundance of laid-back beach bars and some truly great restaurants. Sanur is also a great choice for scuba divers as there are some excellent diving and snorkeling spots offshore.
Who’s it good for: Families, people looking for a more mellow vacation, and scuba divers.
Hotel recommendation: I’m a huge fan of the ARTOTEL Sanur Bali. I love that this hotel showcases murals from local street artists in each room. Plus, the modern rooms have techie features like smart TVs, iPod docking machines and pod coffee makers. Oh, and the rooftop pool is reason enough to stay here! The beach is just a 2-minute walk away too. (Rooms start at $120.)
Uluwatu
Most people go to Uluwatu to see the famous Uluwatu Temple. But Uluwatu is one of the best areas to stay in Bali if you want to set up shop, especially if you’re a surfer.
Uluwatu has a number of breaks, which is why this place is so popular with surfers. That being said, as a non-surfer, I loved my time in Uluwatu. The hidden beaches, beautiful countryside and excellent restaurants were more than enough to keep me entertained. I actually have fantasies of living there!
Who’s it good for: Surfers, independent travelers and those looking to do a little exploring. Taking a motorbike around the area is the best way to experience Uluwatu.
Hotel recommendation: For something totally unique, I highly recommend Rock’n Reef. This place is perched on a cliff right on Impossible Beach, which you’ll have exclusive access to. The ocean views can’t be beat! Plus, Padang and Bingin beaches are less than 300 meters away. Most of the boho-chic bungalows have unobstructed ocean views and everything you need for a comfy stay (rooms start at $150).
Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan has long been popular with the backpacker contingent, but it’s becoming more common for group tourists, families and mid-range travelers to stop off here. Regardless, it is where to stay in Bali for an incredibly mellow vacation.
Though the small island is only 30 minutes away (by boat) from the hyper-tourism and mega-resorts of the mainland, Nusa Lembongan is a rustic little island where it’s possible to stay in dreamlike beach bungalows, find hidden surf spots and snorkel right offshore.
The best way to see all that Nusa Lembongan has to offer is by renting a scooter. The island is studded with turquoise beaches, expansive mangroves and amazing vistas.
Who’s it good for: Backpackers, adventurous families, snorkel and dive enthusiasts.
Hotel recommendation: If you’re looking for views, you won’t be disappointed with a stay at Bukit Taman Cottages. You’ll get to stay in a dreamy bungalow on a hill complete with unreal volcano and Jimbaran Bay views. There’s also an awesome pool (with more views) and the friendlest staff around! (Rooms start at $50).
Nusa Penida
I always rave about Nusa Penida because it really is one of my favorite places to stay in Bali. This rugged little isle is bursting with natural beauty and natural attractions. From jaw-dropping vistas to hidden beaches to world-class diving, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Nusa Penida.
That being said, getting around the island is not for the faint of heart, especially if you want to explore by motorbike. The roads on Nusa Penida are not so good, or they weren’t when I was last there. But you an easily hire a driver to take you around to all the sites.
Who’s it good for: Adventure travelers, experienced scooter drivers, beach lovers and scuba divers.
Hotel recommendation: The Kama has everything you need for a comfy and pampering stay — from the beautifully decorated Balinese rooms and the infinity pool with epic volcano and ocean views to the on-site restaurant and the super sweet staff. (Rooms start at $100.)
Ubud
If you love all things art and yoga, you’re going to love Ubud. Downtown Ubud is chock full of lovely temples, vibrant markets, healthy cafes and hip yoga studios. But, if you ask me the best parts of Ubud lie outside of the city center.
The countryside boasts stunning rice terraces, awesome coffee plantations and great hiking trails. Whether you’re downtown or on the outskirts, the villas and hotels on offer in Ubud are some of the best in Bali.
Who’s it good for: Culture and art lovers, yoga enthusiasts, vegetarian and vegan travelers, digital nomads and long-term travelers.
Hotel recommendation: The Ayala Resort always gets rave reviews from travelers. This is an incredible place to stay if you’d like to spend your time in Ubud luxuriating in your designer room, getting pampered in the spa, working on your tan around the lush pool area, and sipping fruity cocktails at the chic Bamboo Bar. (Rooms start at $150.)
Amed
Amed is another one of my personal favorite places to stay in Bali, and that’s saying a lot! In my opinion, Amed is a contender for the prettiest place in Bali. The views of Mount Agung (Bali’s largest active volcano) are unreal. Drive along the main road, which weaves along the coast, and you’ll pass crystal-clear coral-filled bays lined with rocky beaches and colorful fishing boats.
Veer inland, and you’ll be wowed by the emerald green rice paddies complete with a backdrop of soaring green mountains. Amed really is postcard-perfect! If you’re wondering what there is to do in Amed, check out my full guide here.
Who’s it good for: Snorkelers and divers and families and couples looking for a laid-back vacation at a boutique resort far away from Bali’s main tourist hubs.
Hotel recommendation: I stayed at Mango 5 Hotel near Amed Beach and loved my time there. It was a great little place with only a handful of rooms situated around a lovely pool. (Rooms start at $23.)
Well, there you have it. I hope this helps you make a little more sense of where to stay in Bali that will suit your wants and needs. Happy trip planning!
PIN ME FOR LATER!
That completes my guide on the best areas to stay in Bali! Which of these places would you like to stay during your trip?
Oh why are you taunting me? 😉 I’ve been really wanting to go back to Bali and I keep seeing it pop up on blogs. Wah! Bit far from here with a baby though. I didn’t go to Canggu but I want to try there next time. Love Nusa Lembongan. How do people get around there with a family though? We, like you, hired a motorbike and there are no cars. Maybe that will have to wait until she’s bigger Haha. Let me know if you’re coming back this way sometime.
Haha, come to Bali this summer! I was actually surprised when I went to Lembongan last year. It has definitely become a bit more touristy. There were even package tourists! And believe it or not there are trucks shuttling people around now. It actually makes motorbiking way more of a hazard than it used to be. But it might make traveling there with a little one easier! I think I’ll be in California during the Chinese holiday in October. I can’t wait!!
Oh wow. It’s so interesting how places change so quickly. Bet it’s still beautiful though. October will come round quick, I bet! Oh and I wish I could come to Bali this summer!! 😀
I loved Bali and I have only been to Legian (between Kuta and Seminyak) and Ubud LOL.
I would love to visit these others cities that youve mentioned someday 🙂
What is your favorite ‘city’ on Bali?
x
Because my trips there are long-term and I need to work my place of choice is currently Canggu. That’s likely where I’ll stay this summer. But as a travel destination I definitely LOVE Nusa Penida. That place is so beautiful and relatively untouristy compared to the other places I mentioned.
Was in Bali 20 years ago AMG most recently last year. The island is ruined. Over crowded, polluted, a lot of the culture is now gone. Ubud is an absolute disaster. Kuta/Seminyak/Legion is one big clusterfuck. Only pretty beaches are in Bukit Peninsula. Swimming with empty plastic bottles of water and othe garbage on the beaches is a disgrace. Either bloggers have never seen the real Bali or they are blind.
Yeah, I can imagine it’s brutal going back there after experiencing it 20 years ago. I’ve talked to a lot of people that have the same sentiment as you. In my opinion there’s a lot to love about Bali, but there A LOT of problems too. The trash being one of them. I wrote a post all about that too.
I’m considering a trip to Bali in late 2017/early 2018, so this post actually helps me out a lot in terms of where I should potentially base myself for a two week trip. I will have to look further in Canggu as it seems to combine the best of both worlds between ecotourism and beach life. As for Northern Bali, are there any towns or villages that would recommend exploring? And would you suggest staying in these towns or doing day trips from Ubud instead?
I really enjoyed my stay in Canggu. My only complaint is the traffic. Traffic is an issue in a lot of these place, but Canggu’s was bad. I’ve actually never been to northern Bali. I’m hoping to get up there this summer. I have looked into both Amed and Lovina. So I would do some searches of those places to see if maybe they’d interest you. Two weeks is a good chuck of time to see a lot in Bali. You can base yourself in one place and easily hire and driver and do day trips. Or you can move around a bit. I suppose it depends on what you’re looking for! Have a blast 🙂
I’m more of a Legian/Seminyak girl because I’m so used to it and we have people who remember us from past trips. BUT my parents love the relaxed lifestyle of Sanur. It’s a little too boring for me though 😉
I know what you mean. I’m just so used to Kuta that I seem to always start my trip off there. But this time around I think I might mix things up and go straight to Seminyak or Canggu. I can actually see the appeal of Sanur. It really is lovely and I do like the slower pace. But it’s a bit too boring for me to spend more than a few days!
This is such a helpful post! I think Uluwatu and Nusa Penida are definitely right up my alley. Your posts about those two in particular have intrigued me most of all, and the views are breath-taking!
Yes, two of my favorite places!! I stayed at some surfer’s villa in Uluwatu for a week. He had recently built it on a patch of land with incredible views. The whole thing made me want to buy some land and build a house there (if I had the money!). It was just so peaceful and incredible. I really could have stayed forever!
‘Love the post.
I’ve been to Bali a few times, and I always go to the same place – Ubud!
It’s small, full of culture, music and art. And the local people are a delight. All the things I like.
Plus, I first went to Ubud well before the book – Eat, Pray, Love – was ever written. It doesn’t disturb me in the least! 😀
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Bali is definitely paradise on earth!
Do you have any suggestions what is the time of the year to visit there?
Hi Justine,
I have only been to Bali on a cruise and got a shock with the bad condition of the harbor and harassment from the taxi drivers. Having said that, I would like to fly there next time, as I am sure what you are saying about Bali is a better picture of the truth. Some very nice images.
Cheers Nathan…