Where to stay in bali

Where To Stay In Bali In 2023 – Ultimate Guide by Local Expats

Bali can be a true paradise if you only know where to seek it. This post is an ultimate guide to where to stay in Bali, written by the local expats. We live in Bali and can offer you up-to-date insider knowledge on the best places to stay in Bali, whether you’re a first-timer or a forever Bali fan. 

Bali is renowned for its lush rice fields and mighty volcanos that dominate its landscape, unspoiled beaches and epic waterfalls. 

The island, however, it’s not all about nature. Here, you can also find fancy beach clubs, Michelin-starred restaurants and all sorts of unique hotels – from bamboo houses and traditional Balinese huts to boutique and 5-star luxury resorts. The choice is really infinite!

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Where To Stay In Bali In A Nutshell 

Where is the best place to stay in Bali? Well, the answer to this question varies depending on your expectations and the length of your Bali vacation. If you don’t have time to read the whole guide, this section will give you a quick idea of the best areas in Bali and what’s unique about them.  

 Canggu – Best place to stay in Bali for backpackers & surfers.

Canggu is located west of Kuta, around an hour drive from the airport. Canggu is where most of Bali’s expats live, including us, packed full of trendy cafes, cool co-working spaces and start-up companies. The town also has excellent nightlife and good surfing for all levels.

Ubud – Best place to stay at Bali for yoga, nature & culture lovers.

Being tucked away in the middle of the island, Ubud is an excellent base for exploring more authentic parts of Bali, visiting waterfalls and temples and climbing volcanoes. Ubud is also known to be the island’s spiritual and cultural capital and is famous for nature and yoga retreats. 

Uluwatu – Best area in Bali to stay for beachgoers & couples. 

Uluwatu is situated in the most southern part of Bali on the Bukit Penisula and around 1-hour drive from the island’s airport. Here, you will find Bali’s best beaches, chic beach clubs and world-class surfing spots.  

Nusa Dua – Best area of Bali to stay with family, resort life & honeymoon.

Situated only a 20-minute drive from the airport, Nusa Dua is home to the best resorts in Bali in a gated community that boast immaculate private beaches and world-class services. 

Map Of Best Places To Stay In Bali

Below is a map of the best places to stay in Bali, Indonesia. Click anywhere on the map to access the interactive version. 

Where To Stay Bali – Table

Here is a table summarising all the best locations to stay in Bali.

TownWho Is It Best For?Why Stay?Best HotelMore
Uluwatu First-timersBeaches, surfing Gravity Boutique HotelUluwatu Hotels
UbudFirst-timersCulture, yogaThe Kayon Jungle ResortUbud Hotels
CangguFirst-timersBackpackers, surf, digital nomads, nightlifeZIN Canggu Resort & VillasCanggu Hotels
SeminyakCouplesLuxury, food, shopping, surfThe Colony HotelSeminyak Hotels
JimbaranCouples, familiesSwimming beach, seafood, La Cabane Jimbaran Hotels
KutaCouplesGreat hotel deals, surfTribe Bali Kuta BeachKuta Hotels
Nusa DuaFamiliesLuxury resorts, private beaches Holiday Inn Resort BaliNusa Dua Hotels
SanurFamilies, mature couplesBudget accommodationBebek Cottages SanurSanur Hotels
MundukOff beaten trackEco-luxury, trekking, waterfalls, coffeeMunduk Heaven Luxury VillasMunduk Hotels
SidemenOff beaten trackEco-luxury, bamboo houses, authentic Bali Samanvaya Luxury Hotel & SpaSidemen Hotels
KintamaniOff beaten trackMt Batur hikes, lake viewsBatur Panorama   Kintamani Hotels
AmedOff beaten trackBlack beach, snorkelling, Gili IslandsVilla AdiAmed Hotels
LovinaOff beaten trackBlack beach, dolphinesLilin Lovina Beach HotelLovina Hotels
Nusa PenidaBeach loversEpic sceneries, Instagram-famous spotsAdiwana Warnakali ResortNusa Penida Hotels
Nusa LembonganBeach loversSwimming beach, slow island lifeThe Acala Shri SedanaNusa Lembongan Hotels

Where To Stay In Bali For First Timers   

Uluwatu – Bali Best Area To Stay For BEACH & COUPLES

Where to stay in Uluwatu
Bingin Beach

Uluwatu is the best place to stay in Bali for first-timers who enjoy being close to the beach. It boasts an excellent range of hotels, from budget and boutique-style to luxury accommodation. 

This part of the island boasts the best beaches in Bali, from famous beaches such as Padang Padang to hidden gems such as Nyang Nyang. 

You will also find world-renowned surf spots, incredible beach clubs, modern cafes, excellent restaurants, and traditional Balinese warungs.

TIP | During the rainy season – October to March, Uluwatu experiences the best, most sunny weather. 

Uluwatu Bali – Location

Uluwatu sits in the southernmost part of the island, called Bukit Peninsula, a one-hour drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport. It neighbours Nusa Dua from the east and Jimbaran from the north. 

Bali Airport | 40 minutes drive.

Sanur Ferry Port | 60 minutes drive.

Seminyak | 1 hour drive.

Ubud | 90 minutes to 2 hours drive.

Things To Do In Uluwatu

  • Visit the best Uluwatu beaches – Bingin Beach, Melasti Beach & Balangan Beach.
  • Enjoy sunset cocktails at one of the Uluwatu beach clubs – El Cabron, Palmilla Bali or Savaya Bali. 
  • Watch the Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple at sunset.
  • Take a surfing class on Padang Padang Beach.
  • Watch professional surfers ripping through the waves from Single Fin Bali (Suluban Beach).  
  • Eat at the fabulous Ulu cafes: Ours Bali, Gooseberry, Suka Espresso, Nourish and Drifter Surf Shop Cafe. 
  • Learn more about the Balinese culture at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park.
  • Find your paradise at one of the off-beaten track beaches such as Nyang Nyang, Green Bowl or Pandawa Beach.

Staying in Uluwatu Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Best Bali beaches 
  • Best advanced surf spots
  • Quitter than Seminyak or Canggu

CONS

  • A little remote 
  • Some beaches require a strenuous hike down
  • Nightlife limited to beach clubs

Best Hotels in Uluwatu

hotels in Uluwatu

LUXURY – Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu

Located near Padang Padang Beach, Radisson Blu boasts 5-star facilities and fabulous suites featuring modern design.

Hotels in Uluwatu

MIDRANGE – Gravity Boutique Hotel

Beach boho bungalows, some come with private pools, situated near Balangan Beach (North Uluwatu).

Hotels in Uluwatu

BUDGET – Sal Secret Spot

Sal Secret Spot is a small but charming hotel with a gorgeous pool near Bingin Beach.

Ubud – Best Bali Place To Stay For YOGA, NATURE & CULTURE

Ubud is the best location to stay in Bali for yoga and nature enthusiasts boasting excellent yoga parlours and sustainable boutique hotels. If you want to experience Bali’s spiritual side, you should spend a few days here. 

Ubud is also a great place to base yourself for exploring the North, chasing waterfalls and for those wanting to hike the Mt Batur volcano. 

What was just a small village inhabited by the locals today is a bustling town boasting excellent tourist infrastructure. Ubud may no longer be a hidden gem, but the town still offers a unique experience and a taste of authentic Bali, steps away from its centre. 

Ubud Bali – Location 

Surrounded by lush rice paddies and jungle, Ubud sits in the centre of the island. Here are distances to some of the most important points of interest on the island:

Bali Airport | 1 hour 20 minutes drive.

Sanur Ferry Port | 1-hour drive.

Seminyak | 90 minutes drive. 

Uluwatu | 90 minutes to 2 hours drive.

Things To Do In Ubud

  • Explore Ubud town: Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple of lotus. 
  • Shop for handmade souvenirs at Ubud Market. 
  • Go on a scenic walk along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.
  • Meander through the monkey sanctuary (Ubud Monkey Forest).
  • Visit the lush Tegalalang Rice Fields.
  • Chase the nearby waterfalls: Suwat, Tibumana & Kanto Lampo waterfalls.
  • Take part in the water purification ceremony at Pura Tirta Empul. 
  • Take a yoga or cooking class. 
  • Go on a sunrise hike to Mt Batur.
  • Have a few cocktails at the iconic Lazy Cats Cafe.

Staying in Ubud Pros & Cons

PROS

  • A great selection of unique accommodation 
  • Wide range of cafes, restaurants & interesting shops
  • Plenty to do and see
  • Close to nature

CONS

  • No beach access
  • Further away from the airport
  • Limited nightlife

Best Hotels in Ubud

Luxury Hotels in Ubud

LUXURY – The Kayon Jungle Resort

Set amongst the lush Ubud jungle, Kayon is one of the most epic hotels to stay in Ubud featuring the Instagram-famous multi-level pool.

Hotels in Ubud

MIDRANGE – Le Sabot Ubud

The best option for unique accommodation enthusiasts, Le Sabot, offers suites set in a bamboo house.

Hotels in Ubud

BUDGET – Puri Garden Hotel 

An excellent option for single travellers, Puri Garden features private & hostel-style rooms, free daily yoga classes, a cinema and a pool.

Canggu – Best Place In Bali To Stay For BACKPACKERS, SURFERS & DIGITAL NOMADS

Canggu is the heart of digital nomads’ life on the island, home to aspiring content creators, influencers and start-up entrepreneurs. If you dream of becoming a digital nomad, Canggu is the perfect place for you to get inspired. Here, you will find people on their laptops in every cafe, a wide range of coworking spaces and gyms. 

Canggu has also become the best part of Bali for backpackers boasting many viby hostels, a bustling nightlife scene and cheap places to eat. Before the events of 2020/ 2021, Kuta was the backpacker’s paradise, but now everyone comes to Canggu!

It is also one of the best places to stay in Bali for solo female travellers. There is even a Facebook group exclusively for girls in Canggu that can connect and go together on adventures, meet for sunset walks or go out.    

Canggu Bali – Location 

Surprisingly, Canggu is located quite centrally, neighbouring Seminyak on the east side. 

Bali Airport | 1-hour drive.

Sanur Ferry Port | 1-hour drive.

Uluwatu | 1 hour 30 minutes drive.

Ubud | 1-hour drive.

Things To Do In Canggu

  • Eat your way through Canggu in its many incredible cafes! Some of the best ones include Doppio, Cinta Cafe, Coach Cafe and Copenhagen.
  • Take a surf class at Batu Balong Beach.
  • Have a fresh coconut on the beach.
  • Visit Tanah Lot Temple at sunset.
  • Go out! Luigis on Mondays, Taco Tuesdays at Lola’s, Fridays at Black Sand Brewery and Friday beach party at Sand Bar. 
  • Visit the Sunday farmer’s market in La Brisa. 
  • Shop sustainable Bali brands such as Amalfi Moon, Cove, ELCE, Stella and Above the Clouds & Kohei for men’s fashion.
  • Spend a day in style at Finn’s beach club. 

Staying in Canggu Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Excellent food scene
  • Great nightlife & social life
  • Good place to learn surfing
  • Ideal for remote workers
  • Best place to stay in Bali for singles

CONS

  • Canggu beaches are not ideal for swimmers due to shore break
  • Not as affordable as it used to be
  • It may feel a little crowded, especially in the surf lineup 

Best Hotels in Canggu

luxury hotels in Canggu

LUXURY – COMO Uma Canggu

COMO Uma Hotel boasts a perfect beachfront location, minutes walk to Echo Beach & Batu Balong Beach.

hotels in Canggu

MIDRANGE – ZIN Canggu Resort & Villas

Set in Berawa, ZIN Resort features gorgeous rustic suites and a range of facilities, including a gym, a restaurant and a spa.

hotels in Canggu

BUDGET- Guru Canggu

Guru Canggu offers minimalist, boho-style rooms and a central location, a few minutes walk to Berawa Beach.

Where To Stay In Bali For Couples

Seminyak – Top Place To Stay In Bali For LUXURY STAYS

Where to stay in Seminyak

If you’re after more of a holiday vibe coupled with a boutique luxury stay and an excellent range of restaurants and shops, choose Seminyak. Staying here will feel more like a vacation than in Canggu, where most people work in cafes all day, but it will be much more refined than staying in Kuta. 

Seminyak Beach is also perfect for taking your first surfing classes, and the central location will make it easy to arrange some exciting excursions around the island. 

Seminyak Bali – Location 

Tucked between Canggu and Kuta, Seminyak boasts a central location close to Bali’s main points of interest. 

Bali Airport | 20 minutes drive.

Sanur Ferry Port | 35 minutes drive.

Uluwatu | 1 hour drive.

Ubud | 1 hour 10 minutes drive.

Things To Do In Seminyak

  • Take a surf class on Double Six Beach.
  • Visit the Instagrammable spa – Bodyworks. 
  • Have a vegan lunch at the iconic KYND Cafe. 
  • Get a tattoo! Seminyak boasts many excellent tattoo studios, such as Lumina Tattoo.
  • Eat Mexican food at Hotel Mexicola or La Plancha. 
  • Go shopping! Seminyak and Canggu are the best places in Bali for shopping. 
  • Spend an evening at Potato Head Beach Club or KU DE TA.

Staying in Seminyak Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Excellent food scene 
  • Central location
  • Good nightlife
  • Great place for beginner surf classes

CONS

  • Seminyak beaches are not as beautiful as in Uluwatu

Best Hotels in Seminyak

Hotels in Seminyak

LUXURY – The Colony Hotel

A few minutes walk from Petitenget Beach, The Colony boasts elegant colonial-style interiors for a stylish stay.

Hotels in Seminyak

MIDRANGE – Kanvaz Village Resort 

Kanvaz VillageResort features spacious rooms with modern design, a walking distance to Batu Belig Beach.

Hotels in Seminyak

BUDGET- Aloft Bali Seminyak 

Aloft is located on the main road, a few-minute walk to Batu Belig and boasts a rooftop pool with ocean views.

Jimbaran – Best Area To Stay In Bali For SWIMMING BEACH & SEAFOOD

where to stay in jimbaran

Jimbaran is another perfect place in Bali where to stay with your other half. It boasts an excellent range of luxury hotels scattered along its 4 km long white sanded beach, perfect for a romantic stay with just the two of you. 

The beach in Jimbaran is highly accessible, so you won’t need to navigate a steep cliff just to get there. The sea is also super gentle, which makes Jimbaran beach the perfect swimming beach. Here, you can rent a standup paddleboard or a kayak and explore the nearby shores. 

In the evenings, the beach comes to life with white-clothed tables of the seafood restaurants, tourists and locals strolling the beach and vendors selling anything from grilled corn to local bakso snacks and colourful toys. 

Jimbaran Bali – Location 

Jimbaran is a small town located right under the island’s airport, close to Kuta, as well as the beaches of Uluwatu. The central location makes Jimbaran the perfect base for exploring the island’s highlights. 

Bali Airport | 15 minutes drive.

Sanur Ferry Port | 30 minutes drive.

Uluwatu | 30 minutes drive.

Ubud | 1 hour 10 minutes drive.

Things To Do In Jimbaran

  • Have a romantic sunset dinner at one of the seafood restaurants on the beach.
  • Go standup paddle boarding.
  • Spend a fun day at Waterbom (in Kuta).
  • Enjoy sunset cocktails at the epic Jimbaran’s Rock Bar. 

Staying in Jimbaran Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Beautiful beach with calm sea 
  • A paradise for seafood lovers
  • Also suitable for families

CONS

  • No nightlife  
  • Not suitable for surfing

Best Hotels in Jimbaran

hotels in Jimbaran

LUXURY – Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay

Four Seasons boasts luxury, Balinese-style villas with private pools with ocean views and world-class facilities.

hotels in Jimbaran

MIDRANGE – La Cabane 

Located near Balangan Beach, La Cabane offers wooden bungalows set in a lush garden with a shared pool.

hotels in Jimbaran

BUDGET – Abi Bali Resort and Villa

Abi Bali offers double rooms and private pool villas and is situated a 25-minutes walk to Jimbaran Beach.

Kuta – Currently, ​​Cheapest Place To Stay In Bali

where to stay in kuta

In the past, Kuta was a backpacker’s paradise and a party place, but this has dramatically changed after the events of 2020-2021. As of late 2022, Kuta hasn’t recovered as well as places like Canggu, Seminyak or Uluwatu. And as a result, the “young crowd” much prefers the hipster vibe of Canggu nowadays, while Kuta remains a “traditional tourism” destination

Because most travellers prefer other places to stay Bali, many excellent hotels in Kuta offer great deals! 

If you don’t mind staying in a “not so trendy” place, Kuta is the best place to stay in Bali for couples looking for a bargain luxury stay

Apart from excellent hotels, Kuta boasts a vast stretch of sandy beach with superb beginner surf breaks and a great selection of restaurants, bars, shops, and various entertainment venues. 

Kuta Bali – Location 

Kuta is located a few kilometres south of Bali’s international airport and neighbours Seminyak in the south and Denpasar in the east. Kuta sits right in the middle of the busiest part of the island, which, as you can imagine, comes with its benefits, such as excellent infrastructure and drawbacks, such as crazy traffic. 

Bali Airport | 20 minutes drive.

Sanur Ferry Port | 40 minutes drive.

Uluwatu | 60 minutes drive.

Ubud | 70 minutes drive.

Things To Do In Kuta

  • Spend a day at Waterbom Bali.
  • Take a surf class. 
  • Chil at Kuta Beach.
  • Go shopping at Kuta’s many malls, such as Beachwalk.
  • Visit Kuta’s  Buddhist Temple – Vihara Dharmayana.
  • Watch a traditional show at Kuta Theatre. 

Staying in Kuta Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Great hotel deals 
  • Central location 
  • Excellent infrastructure: restaurants, cafes, shops etc.
  • Superb place for beginner surfers

CONS

  • The least authentic city in Bali 
  • It hasn’t recovered as well as other Bali vacation spots
  • It can be bad with traffic

Best Hotels in Kuta

Hotels in Kuta Bali

LUXURY – Amnaya Resort Kuta

Located at the southern end of Kuta Beach and near Waterbom Bali, Amnaya boasts modern suites and fantastic facilities.

Hotels in Kuta Bali

MIDRANGE – Tribe Bali Kuta Beach

Tribe Bali features ultra-modern rooms, an iconic rooftop infinity pool and a very central location, right by Kuta Beach.

Hotels in Kuta Bali

BUDGET – Praba Guesthouse

This guesthouse is situated right by the airport and a 17-minute walk from Jerman Beach famous for an excellent surf break.

Where To Stay In Bali For Families 

Nusa Dua and Sanur are the two best places to stay in Bali for families, but also consider Jimbaran, which has been reviewed in the section above. 

Nusa Dua –  Where To Stay Bali For SAFE BEACHES & LUXURY RESORTS

where to stay in nusa dua

Boasting pristine, white-sanded beaches and luxury resorts, Nusa Dusa is hands down the best place to stay in Bali with family seeking a relaxing getaway. If you’re celebrating something special or simply want to treat your loved ones to a stay in one of the best resorts in Bali that offer world-class service, look no further.  

The most luxurious hotels in Nusa Dua are located in a gated community situated along the eastern coast between Benoa and Penisula Island. They feature carefully manicured roads lined with palm trees and an exclusive, pristine beach. The Nusa Dua resorts are also known for being excellent at providing entertainment so that you may never want to leave their grounds!

Nusa Dua Bali – Location

Nusa Dua occupies the eastern part of Bukit Penisula, and it only takes about 20 minutes to get here from the airport. 

Bali Airport | 20 minutes drive.

Sanur Ferry Port | 30 minutes drive.

Seminyak | 40 minutes drive.

Ubud | 1.5-hour drive.

Things To Do In Nusa Dua

  • Swim, go standup paddleboarding or kayaking.  
  • Take a glass-bottom boat and explore the marine life.
  • Go shopping at Bali Collection.
  • Dine with the whole family at Le Petit Chef. 
  • Marvel at the incredible forces of nature at Waterblow.  
  • Practise your golf skills at Bali National Golf Club.

Staying in Nusa Dua Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Stunning beaches
  • Safe for kids and swimmers of all levels
  • Most resorts have their private beach 

CONS

  • Not the most authentic part of Bali
  • Can be pricey 
  • A little remote 

Best Hotels in Nusa Dua

Hotels in Nusa Dua Bali

LUXURY – The Apurva Kempinski Bali

Sitting right on the gorgeous Sawangan Beach, The Apurva Kempinski features elegant suites and private pool villas.

Hotels in Nusa Dua Bali

MIDRANGE – Sadara Boutique Beach Resort

Located on Tanjung Beach, Sadara Resort boasts modern rooms with Balinese touches, excellent breakfast and an optional half-board stay.

Hotels in Nusa Dua Bali

BUDGET – Holiday Inn Resort Bali

Holiday Inn is an excellent option for families boasting a fabulous private beach, multiple pools and a kid’s waterpark.

Sanur –  Best Place To Stay In Bali For Families ON A BUDGET

where to stay in sanur bali

If you’re looking for where to stay in Bali with a family when you’re on a budget, Sanur may be the perfect location for you. 

Sanur boasts quiet beaches and a chilled vibe where not much is happening. The accommodation prices are low here and if chilling on a peaceful beach is your kind of perfect, then look no further. With shallow, gentle sea, Sanur beaches are also ideal for kids. 

The port town of Sanur also features a central location, excellent for visiting places like Ubud and Uluwatu. 

Sanur Bali – Location 

You can find Sanur in the southeastern part of Bali, just above Nusa Dua and Benoa. It is also known for being a gateway to visiting Nusa Islands with a port that offers multiple daily connections.

Bali Airport |  25 minutes drive.

Seminyak |  35 minutes drive.

Uluwatu |  60 minutes drive.

Ubud |  50 minutes drive.

Things To Do In Sanur

  • Enjoy a relaxed, small-town vibe.
  • Try kitesurfing.
  • Watch the sunrise on Sanur Beach.
  • Go on a day trip to Nusa Penida.

Staying in Sanur Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Great value for money
  • Close to the airport
  • Central location
  • Easy to visit Nusa Penida

CONS

  • Not much to do

Best Hotels in Sanur

Hotels in Sanur Bali

LUXURY – Hyatt Regency Bali

Hyatt Regency Sanur boasts a private beach, outstanding facilities for all members of the family and tastefully decorated suites.

Hotels in Sanur Bali

MIDRANGE – Bebek Cottages Sanur

Bebek Cottages are located within walking distance from the kitesurfing beach – Mertasari and offers double and family rooms.

Hotels in Sanur Bali

BUDGET – Bali Komang Guest House Sanur

Located just over 2 km from the beach, Bali Komang Guest House offers clean and comfortable rooms.

Best Off Beaten-Track Places To Stay In Bali

You may be asking the question – but where are the best places to stay in Bali for someone that has already been to Bali and looking to explore more off-beaten-track locations? In the following sections, we answer your question about where in Bali to stay for an off-grid experience. 

Off Beaten Track Best Areas To Stay In Bali For Outdoor And Nature Lovers

Munduk – One Of The Best  Places In Bali To Stay For | RICEFIELDS & WATERFALLS

Where to stay in Munduk Bali

Munduk is one of the best places to stay in Bali, which offers a completely unique experience and even a different, much cooler climate! Munduk is located in the North of Bali, an area that is known for its coffee plantations, breezy weather and excellent hiking opportunities. 

In fact, Balinese that live in the coastal regions of Bali, come to Munduk on vacation to take a break from the hot and humid weather. Munduk boasts some incredible boutique hotels that offer a full immersion into the local nature in the form of eco-friendly accommodation, tours of the local villages and cuisine based on the local produce. 

Munduk Bali – Location

Perched high in the mountains, Munduk is a remote Bali area far from any other towns on the island. 

Bali Airport | 2 hours drive.

Sanur Ferry Port | 2 hours drive.

Uluwatu | 2 hours 30 minutes drive.

Ubud | 1 hour 30 minutes drive. 

Things To Do In Munduk

  • Visit Munduk Waterfall.
  • Take a hike to the lush Munduk rice fields.
  • Pay a visit to the picturesque Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple located on the lake.
  • Marvel at the incredible Pura Ulun Danu Tamblingan.
  • Take an Instagram famous photo at the iconic Handara Gate. 
  • Visit one of Munduk’s many coffee plantations.  

Staying in Munduk Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Excellent for outdoor lovers
  • Beautiful waterfalls
  • Mountainous climate
  • Fantastic eco-friendly Bali accommodation

CONS

  • Remote
  • No beach access nearby

Best Hotels in Munduk

hotels in Munduk Bali

LUXURY – Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa

One of the best hotels in Munduk nature resort that boasts a stunning infinity pool and luxury suites some offering private pools.

hotels in Munduk Bali

MIDRANGE – Munduk Heaven Luxury Villas

These villas are set right in the Munduk jungle, a 15-minute drive from Lake Temblingan.

hotels in Munduk Bali

BUDGET – Ekommunity Glamping 

Ekocommunity tents are located close to Munduk Waterfall and Munduk ricefields. Guests can enjoy a restaurant and yoga classes.

Sidemen – One Of Bali Best Areas To Stay In For | BAMBOO HOUSES

Where to stay in Sidemen Bali

Situated in a lesser-known part of the island, Sidemen is one of the top places to stay in Bali, Indonesia, for the authentic Balinese vibe. If you want to experience true, non-touristy Bali, visit Sidemen! But do it soon because Sidemen won’t stay off the mainstream tourist radar forever! 

Sidemen is also fantastic for unique bamboo houses! And there is no better way to enjoy the Balinese countryside other than staying in one of the traditional yet luxurious lodgings overlooking rush ricefields and mighty volcanoes.  

This area of Bali does not fall short of the exciting activities that you can undertake, such as hiking, river rafting, swimming in waterfalls and visiting the nearby beaches

Sidmemen Bali – Location 

Sidemen is located in the southeast of Bali in the Karangasem district. 

Bali Airport | 1 hour 20 minutes drive.

Seminyak | 1 hour 50 minutes drive.

Uluwatu | 2 hours drive.

Ubud | 1 hour 10 minutes drive.

Things To Do In Sidemen

  • Go rice fields trekking.
  • Visit traditional Balinese villages.
  • Swim at the gorgeous Virgin Beach.
  • Have a cup of coffee with a view at La Montagne Café.
  • Take a refreshing dip at Gembleng Waterfall.

Staying in Sidemen Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Excellent choice of unique bamboo accommodation
  • Ideal for nature lovers
  • Authentic Balinese villages 

CONS

  • A little remote 

Best Hotels in Sidemen

Hotels in Sidemen

LUXURY – Samanvaya Luxury Hotel & Spa

Guests at Samanvaya can enjoy luxury suites with Balinese touches, a spa and an excellent restaurant.

Hotels in Sidemen

MIDRANGE – Patal Kikian Villa

Patal Kikian boasts spacious villas, a traditional restaurant and an infinity pool overlooking the jungle and a volcano.

Hotels in Sidemen

BUDGET – Darmada Eco Resort   

Featuring colonial-style bungalows, this property is also equipped with a pool and a restaurant.

Kintamani – Best Area To Stay Bali For | HIKING & VOLCANO VIEWS

Where to stay in Kintamani
Sunrise from the top of Mt Batur.

Kintamani is mostly known for being home to the most famous Bali volcano – Mt Batur. Here, you can find basic lodges that cater for the avid hikers and outdoor lovers that came to hike the mighty Batur. 

Please know that you don’t have to stay in Kintamani for the sole purpose of taking the Mt Batur hike, as you can take an organised tour from any of the tourist hubs. The tours normally include door-to-door transportation. But if you’re interested in exploring another off-the-beaten-track part of the island, Kintamani is ideal. 

Kintamani Bali – Location 

Kintamani is a remote area of Bali located in the northeast. Here are distances to some of the most popular places to stay in Bali:

Bali Airport | 2 hours drive.

Seminyak | 2 hours drive.

Uluwatu |  2 hours 30 minutes drive.

Ubud | 1-hour drive.

Things To Do In Kintamani

  • Embark on the iconic sunrise hike of Mt Batur.
  • Relax in Kintamani’s hot springs. 
  • Visit Pura Ulun Danu Batur Temple. 
  • Dine with a view at Montana Del Cafe.
  • Admire the panoramic volcano vistas at Pinggan Sunrise View.
  • Take a dip at Pelisan Waterfall.    

Staying in Kintamani Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Excellent base for Mt Batur hike 
  • Beautiful nature
  • Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts

CONS

  • Remote
  • Mostly basic accommodation
  • No Western food 

Best Hotels in Kintamani

Hotels in Kintamani

Tira Vilagna Suites & Spa

Boasting elegant wooden suites set in a lush garden, Tira Vilanga is an excellent luxury stay in Kintamani.

Hotels in Kintamani

Batur Panorama   

Batur Panorama Hotel offers cosy, wooden cottages and a pool with epic views of Mt Batur.

Best Areas In Bali To Stay For Off Beaten Track Beach Stay

In this section, we share four super nice places to stay in Bali for an off-beaten-track experience, perfect for those that enjoy staying by the beach. 

Amed – One Of The Best ​​Bali Places To Stay For | SNORKELLING & BLACK BEACH

Where to stay in Amed Bali

Beach enthusiasts looking for unique stays in Bali will love Amed’s striking, black-sanded beaches and charming town that stretches along the coast, right at the foot of the mighty Mt Agung volcano. 

Amed is small but has a great range of midrange hotels that either come with beach access or sit in the hills boasting spectacular ocean views. Here, you can also find a decent selection of seafood restaurants, traditional Balinese warungs and even a couple of western cafes that serve things like smoothie bowls and avo on toast. 

One of the best things to do in Amed is exploring the marine life at the local coral reef or strolling the black sand beach in the late afternoon. Amed is also an excellent base for visiting Easter Bali and is well-connected with the Gili Islands and Lombok

Amed Bali – Location 

The town of Amed is perched on the eastern coast of the island, and it takes a bit of effort to get here, but if you’re looking for non-touristy places to stay in Bali on the beach, I promise it will be worth it. 

Bali Airport | 2 hours 20 minutes drive.

Seminyak |  2 hours 20 minutes drive.

Uluwatu | 3 hours drive.

Ubud | 2 hours 10 minutes drive.

Things To Do In Amed 

  • Go scuba diving or snorkelling in the local reef. 
  • Take a boat to Gili Trawangan. 
  • Gorge on fresh seafood.
  • Visit Tirta Ganga.
  • Marvel at the picture-perfect Pura Lempuyang.
  • Have a drink at Amed Sunset Point. 

Staying in Amed  Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Affordable hotel rates 
  • Excellent snorkelling spots
  • Gateway to visiting Gili Islands 
  • Good restaurant range

CONS

  • Remote 

Best Hotels in Amed

Hotels in Amed

LUXURY – Mathis Lodge Amed

Set 4 km from the coast, Mathis Lodge features boho suites with a hot tub or private pool and ocean views, a spa and a restaurant.

Hotels in Amed

MIDRANGE – Villa Adi

Situated 2 km from Lipah Beach and 4 km from Amed Beach, the property offers 2-bedroom villas with private pools.

Lovina – The Best Place To Stay In Bali For | DOLPHIN WATCHING & WATERFALLS

Where to stay in Lovina Bali

The quaint town of Lovia is the best place to stay in Bali Indonesia, to see dolphins, which tend to hang out very close to the shore in the early morning hours. 

Apart from the dolphins and unique black sand beaches, there is not much else happening in Lovina, which makes it the perfect place where to stay in Bali Indonesia, for a relaxing and off-the-grid gateway. You can find here family-owned midrange hotels and restaurants. 

And, if you’re willing to drive a few kilometres away from the coast, you will find incredible waterfalls that not many tourists visit!

Lovina Bali – Location

Bali Airport | 2 hours 30 minutes drive.

Seminyak |  2 hours 10 minutes drive.

Uluwatu |  3 hours drive.

Ubud |  2 hours drive.

Things To Do In Lovina

  • Take a sunrise boat tour and spot Lovina’s dolphins!
  • Laze on the beach.
  • Visit the nearby waterfalls: Sekumpul, Git Git, Aling Aling and Singsing. 

Staying in Lovina Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Perfect for dolphins watching 
  • Quiet beaches
  • One of the best, cheap places to stay in Bali 

CONS

  • A little remote 

Best Hotels in Lovina

Hotels in Lovina

LUXURY – The Kayu Manis Villa & Spa

This property is set 5 km from Lovina Beach and boasts ocean view villas, an infinity pool, a spa and a restaurant.

Hotels in Lovina

MIDRANGE – Lilin Lovina Beach Hotel

Boasting a beachfront location (Lovina Beach West), Lilin Lovina has a range of plunge pool beach bungalows.

Nusa Penida – One Of The Top Places To Stay In Bali For INSTAGRAM FAMOUS BEACHES

Where to stay in Nusa Penida
Kelingking Beach.

Nusa Penida is by far one of the coolest places to stay in Bali, where we love to keep coming back! If you’re an explorer and want to be blown away by the scenic views and beaches out of this world, then make sure you include Nusa Penida in your Bali itinerary! 

While most visitors come to Nusa Penida on a day trip, we can’t recommend enough staying for at least 1-2 nights. 

Since the photos of the T-rex-shaped coast (Kelingking Beach) blew up on Social Media, Nusa Penida is the new hot spot to visit, not only for the avid Instagrammer! 

It boasts a great range of hotels for all budgets and traditional local eateries. On the island’s northern and northeastern coast, you can even find more modern hipster cafes and small beach clubs.   

Nusa Penida Bali – Location

Nusa Penida is a small island located a 45-minute boat ride from the shores of Bali island. The best place to catch a lift to Nusa Island is Saur Port. 

Things To Do In Nusa Penida

  • Visit the Instagram-famous Kelingking Beach.
  • Swim with manta rays.
  • Hike down to the epic Diamond Beach.
  • Spend a lazy beach day on Atuh Beach or Crystal Bay Beach.
  • Marvel at the Broken Beach & Angels Billabong. 
  • Drive through the iconic Teletubbies Hills. 

Staying in Nusa Penida Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Mind-blowing scenery 
  • Excellent hotels for all budget

CONS

  • Some beaches are not suitable for swimming due to dangerous shore break
  • You need to take a boat here from Sanur Port

Best Hotels in Nusa Penida

hotels in Nusa Penida

LUXURY – Adiwana Warnakali Resort

Located in Toya Pakeh (Nusa Penida North), Adiwana boasts oceanfront suites and an infinity pool.

hotels in Nusa Penida

MIDRANGE – La Roja Bungalows

This property features boho-style bungalows and is situated on the northeastern coast of Penida Island.

Nusa Lembongan – Where To Stay In Bali For BEACHES & ISLAND LIFE

Where to stay in Nusa Lembongan
Jungutbatu Beach.

It may not be the most popular place to stay in Bali, which is the whole point, but Nusa Lembongan boasts incredible beaches and is remote enough to provide the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the main Bali vacation spots. 

Our favourite area to stay on Nusa Lembongan is Jungut Batu Beach overlooking the incredible volcano. Other areas include Mushroom Bay Beach and Dream Beach. 

The best part of staying on Lembongan is its island life vibe, which is friendly and chilled, and its beaches, which are much better for swimming than on Nusa Penida. 

And surprisingly, here you can find an excellent range of hotels, including a few luxury resorts and private villas with incredible ocean views, as well as excellent beachfront restaurants, healthy food cafes and bars. 

Nusa Lembongan Bali – Location

Nusa Lembongan is one of the three Nusa IsIands (Penida, Lembongan & Ceningan) located a few minutes boat ride from its larger and more visited sister island – Nusa Penida. 

Things To Do In Lembongan

  • Chill on Jungut Batu Beach.
  • Go surfing.
  • Take a boat through the Mangrove Forest.
  • Cross the iconic Yellow Bridge.
  • Visit Nusa Ceningan.
  • Enjoy a beach day at Indiana Kenanga Beach Club.
  • Marvel at the Devil’s Tear.

Staying in Nusa Lembongan Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Stunning beaches, perfect for swimming
  • Not busy

CONS

  • You need to take two boats to get here from Bali

Best Hotels in Nusa Lembongan

Hotels in Nusa Lembongan

LUXURY – The Acala Shri Sedana

This property is located near the Yellow Bridge and features ocean-view suites, an infinity pool, a restaurant and a spa.

Hotels in Nusa Lembongan

BUDGET – Bamboo Bungalows 

Bamboo Bungalows are located near Jungut Batu Beach.

WHERE TO STAY IN BALI? FAQ

If this is your first trip to Bali and you have seven days, you should stay in a maximum of three different places to make sure you travel slowly enough to enjoy each location. Here is a suggested seven days Bali itinerary:

Uluwatu – 3 nights 

Ubud – 2 nights 

Canggu or Seminyak – 2 nights

If you’re planning your honeymoon, consider booking one of the resorts in Nusa Dua. Other excellent locations to consider are Jimbaran and Seminyak.  

For mature couples, we recommend staying in Sanur, Seminyak or any of the off-beaten track destinations such as Munduk, Sidemen, Lovina and Amed. 

If you’re looking for where to stay in Bali for cheap, we have good news for you! Most locations offer some sort of budget accommodation, so in most cases, you don’t have to sacrifice your preferred location. However, we find that places like Kuta, Sanur and Amed offer particularly good value for money.

The short answer is Canggu. Here, you’ll find many great hostels and co-living spaces where you can find and connect with like-minded girls. There are even some Facebook groups, such as “Canggu Nomad Girls” or “Girls in Bali”, where you can meet other solo ladies.

Uluwatu is hands down the best place to stay in Bali for beaches! Other areas to consider include Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Gili Islands. 

That depends on what you consider romantic. It can either be a luxury stay in an all-inclusive resort in Nusa Dua, a cliff-top hotel in Uluwatu or an eco-friendly sanctuary in Ubud. 

Kuta was, in the past, the best place to stay in Bali to party, but that is no longer the case. Nowadays, the best place to stay in Bali for singles to socialise and party is either Canggu or Seminyak. 

 

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