Best Places to Stay in Bali: My favorite Areas and Hotels 2024
Wondering where is the best place to stay in Bali Indonesia?
Ever since I first visited Bali in 2013 I get asked this question a lot: Where are the best places to stay in Bali?
The popular Indonesian island destination is packed to the brim with the most surreal and stunning views everywhere you look – it’s got everything from breathtaking rice fields, jaw-dropping waterfalls, picturesque water temples, rugged volcanoes, immaculate white sand beaches, dreamy lakes, I could go on.
Honestly, you could stay anywhere in Bali and have a smashing time. But you might want to consider whether to stay where the crowds are or somewhere off the beaten path and hidden. And whether you want to be near lots of waterfall treks or in walking distance to the best bars, close proximity to amazing beaches, or tucked away deep in the rice valleys.
Planning your trip? Use my favorite resources!
🏨 Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com
✈️ Flights: for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner
🚗 Rental Car: I recommend Discover Cars
🛡️ Travel Insurance: for the best deals I rely on SafetyWing
Table of Contents
Bali Map
Ultimately, the best part of Bali to stay in really depends on your interests and specifically what you’re looking to get out of your trip. Having been to Bali several times myself, I’ve stayed everywhere from Kuta, Canggu, Munduk, Lovina, Ubud, Uluwatu, and Nusa Penida!
In this guide, I list my top recommendations around the island and help you find the perfect spot for your vacation.
Bali Essentials Checklist:
✅ A good quality raincoat (it tends to rain a lot in the mountainous regions)
✅ A decent pair of hiking shoes (for mountain/volcano trekking)
✅ A sarong for women and for men is essential for entering Bali temples and other sacred places
✅ A hoodie or warm sweater (for the cool evenings in the hilly regions)
✅ A good quality compact camera (for taking great pics)
Best Places to Stay in Bali: My favorite Areas and Hotels 2024
My complete guide on where to go in Bali and the best place to stay in Bali for first timers. Plus what to do in Bali, best beaches in Bali, and more.
Quick Guide: Where to Stay in Bali
➡️ If you’re looking for a combination of relaxation, culture and nightlife, with trendy cafes, upscale boutiques and laid-back vibes, Seminyak and Canggu will be the perfect choice.
➡️ If you’re looking for a more authentic experience though, with a traditional art and culture scene, Ubud is the place to be.
➡️ If you’re seeking a nice, serene, quiet, and upscale location with luxury resorts, Nusa Dua is your best bet.
➡️ And for stunning beaches and views, Uluwatu is a fantastic option. So take your pick!
📍$ Best budget spot in Bali: Shindu Homestay Room 6 (Standard double room) in Ubud. Cost per night: $15 (£12). Rating: 10 – Exceptional
📍$$ Best Mid-range hotel in Bali: Vivara Bali Private Pool Villas & Spa Retreat (1-Bed private pool villa) in Jimbaran. Cost per night: $175 (£140). Rating: 9.0 – Superb
📍$$$ Best Luxury Resort in Bali: The Kayon Jungle Resort (Jungle pool villa) in Ubud. Cost per night: $542 (£434). Rating: 9.4 – Superb
Best places to stay in Bali for young adults
Bali is an immensely popular destination for young adults, and there are several areas that are especially popular with this age group. Here are some superb places to stay:
Kuta: known for its lively nightlife, the area is popular with party-goers and backpackers, and is one of the best places to stay in Bali for budget travel.
Seminyak: popular for its trendy cafes and upscale boutiques, this area is popular with the jet set crowd.
Canggu: Another spot for chic cafes, Canggu is also a popular surf spot with a super laid-back vibe and plenty of vegan and chic restaurants. It’s also the top location for digital nomads and expats.
Legian: famous for its vibrant nightlife and shopping and spas, excellent for those looking to stay in a party atmosphere.
Uluwatu: a coastal area known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches, as well as the iconic Uluwatu Temple, the GWK park, and surf breaks.
Kuta and Legian:
Best places to stay in Bali for nightlife, restaurants, markets and beaches
📍$ Budget Option:
Praba Guest House
Type: Deluxe double room
Rating: 8.8 Fabulous
📍$$ Mid-range Option:
Rama Beach Resort & Villas
Type: Deluxe double room
Rating: 8.8 Fabulous
📍$$$ Luxury Option:
Amnaya Resort Kuta
Type: Junior suite
Rating: 9.1 Superb
Roundup: Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Legian, and Uluwatu Bali are the perfect choices for young adults looking for a lively atmosphere and nightlife, while Ubud is suited for those looking for a more laid-back and relaxed vibe.
👉 Popular Post: 13 Places in Bali That You MUST Visit
Best places to stay in Bali for couples
Bali is like romantic bliss for couples! There’s so many dreamy spots to stay depending on the vibe you’re looking for.
Seminyak: If you want trendy boutiques and beach clubs, Seminyak is perfect. Spend lazy days poolside at a luxury resort, then hit up chic restaurants and cafes at night. Very pampered, modern honeymoon feels.
Ubud: For a more spiritual, cultural escape, head to Ubud in central Bali. Hideaway in a secluded villa in the jungle and recharge with yoga, nature walks, and spa treatments. It’s super peaceful and intimate.
Nusa Dua: Nusa Dua has high-end resorts and activities like sunset cruises – totally luxurious. Treat yourselves to the finest dining and beach massages. A great spot to splurge and indulge.
Uluwatu: Uluwatu brings stunning cliff views and empty beach walks, plus the Uluwatu sea temple. Watch the sunset with cocktails in your hands before taking in a traditional dance show.
Jimbaran: And you can’t beat dinner on the beach under the stars in Jimbaran. Some of Bali’s top seafood restaurants are found here. A romantic meal by candlelight with your toes in the sand is pure magic.
Jimbaran and Uluwatu:
Jimbaran may just be the best place to stay in Bali for honeymoon and you’ll find the best luxury resorts in Bali and the best places to stay in Bali for luxury and privacy, while in Uluwatu you’ll discover the best beaches in Bali.
📍$ Budget Option:
Dava Jaya Uluwatu
Type: Standard double room & private bathroom
Rating: 8.8 Fabulous
📍$$ Mid-range Option:
Vivara Bali Private Pool Villas & Spa Retreat
Type: 1-Bed villa & pool
Rating: 9.1 Superb
📍$$$ Luxury Option:
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran
Type: Garden king villa
Rating: 9.2 Superb
Roundup: Seminyak, Ubud, Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, and Jimbaran are amazing options for couples looking for that romantic getaway that includes luxurious resorts, private villas, and numerous romantic activities to choose from.
🐬 Enjoy spotting dolphins on a private tour
Watch the wild dolphins near Lovina Beach playing at sunset on Dolphin Tour and Sunrise Watching in Lovina Beach in a glass-bottom boat. After the dolphins, you will have breakfast in a local restaurant and visit Wanagiri Hidden Hills.
Best place to stay in Bali for first timers
Heading to Bali for the first time? I feel you, it can be tough to decide where to stay with so many options!
Most newbies go for the southern towns like Kuta and Seminyak. They’re close to top sights and have solid tourist infrastructure, so it’s easy to get your bearings.
Kuta is a classic first stop – lively nightlife, shops, markets, beach access. You’ll meet fellow travelers and get into the Bali flow. Just know it can get chaotic.
Seminyak: Often considered Bali city centre along with Kuta, Seminyak is more upscale with posh resorts, stylish restaurants, and ritzy beach clubs. Treat yourself to a massage and ease into Bali in luxury.
Ubud: For cultural soul, check out Ubud in central Bali. Temples, rice paddies, artsy feels. Do a day trip, or stay a few nights if you can.
Sanur is super mellow with calm waters and killer sunsets. Great for families or anyone seeking relaxation. Easy access to sites too.
Ubud and Kuta:
When it comes to best places to stay in Bali for culture and tradition, Ubud tops the list. Both Ubud and Kuta are the best places to stay in Bali for yoga retreats.
📍$ Budget Option:
Shindu Homestay Room
Type: Standard double room
Rating: 10 Exceptional
📍$$ Mid-range Option:
Sapodilla Ubud
Type: King room with balcony
Rating: 9.4 Exceptional
📍$$$ Luxury Option:
Kayon Jungle Resort
Type: Standard double room & private bathroom
Rating: 9.4 Exceptional
Roundup: Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud are perfect for first-time visitors to Bali, as they provide easy access to the island’s main tourist attractions, while Sanur is a pretty sweet option for those looking for a more relaxed time.
For a complete guide on Ubud and what to do there, here’s 27 amazing things to do in Ubud
Best places to stay in Bali for families
Bali is an excellent destination for families, and plenty of areas are particularly suitable for the whole family. Some great places to stay in Bali with family include:
Sanur: This is a more family-friendly area with a laid-back atmosphere, and is known for its calm waters and gorgeous sunsets. It’s also close to popular tourist attractions, such as the Goa Gajah Temple, making it the perfect location for families.
Nusa Dua: A more upscale area with luxury resorts and a quieter atmosphere, making it a great option for families looking for a more relaxing vacation. Nusa Dua offers a wide range of facilities for kids and families such as a kids club, water park, and beach activities.
Heading to Bali with the whole family? There’s tons of great spots to set up home base, depending on what vibe you’re going for.
Sanur is super laidback with calm waters – perfect for little ones. It’s got gorgeous sunsets too. Close to sites like the Gajah Temple for day trips. Such a relaxing, family-friendly area.
Nusa Dua has upscale resorts with kids clubs, activities and waterparks – awesome for keeping the young ones entertained. And the atmosphere is more low-key so parents can relax too.
Jimbaran brings a nice mix of beach time and experiencing Bali’s culture. Kids will love the sand and seafood, while parents can soak in the sunsets.
Seminyak leans luxurious but still has family-friendly resorts. There’s posh restaurants and shopping nearby too. Great way to vacation in style with kids in tow.
Ubud: Don’t overlook Ubud either. The Monkey Forest, rice paddies and traditional markets make for a cool cultural family adventure.
No matter where you stay, Bali is sure to impress the whole fam. Enjoy making magical memories together! Let me know if you need any other family travel tips.
Sanur and Nusa Dua:
Sanur and Nusa Dua offer some of the best family-friendly resorts in Bali and the best places to stay in Bali for relaxation.
📍$ Budget Option:
Nyaman Guest House
Type: Standard double room with free breakfast
Rating: 9.1 Superb
📍$$ Mid-range Option:
Grand Hyatt Bali
Type: King room with free breakfast
Rating: 8.0 Very good
📍$$$ Luxury Option:
The Bale Nusa Dua
Type: Deluxe 1-Bed pavilion with private pool
Rating: 8.9 Fabulous
Roundup: Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Seminyak, and Ubud are great options for families seeking a relaxed, upscale, or authentic vacation, with a wide range of activities and facilities for kids and families.
🏕️ Glamping in Bali?
Bali has tons of gorgeous glamping options with luxury pods, yurts and treehouses that you can choose to stay at, instead of regular hotels, resorts, and guest houses. Read up on all the best places to glamping in Bali here.
Best place to stay in Bali for singles and backpackers
Traveling solo in Bali? You’re in for an epic adventure. There’s so many awesome spots to meet fellow travelers and soak up the best of the island.
Kuta: As we’ve seen above, Kuta is backpacker central, with lively nightlife and a social vibe. Grab a bunk at a party hostel and you’ll make new friends in no time. Just don’t expect peace and quiet here, it’s full energy!
Canggu is more chilled out with a surf town feel. Trendy cafes, yoga spots, remote workers – great for meeting digital nomads and creative types in a laidback atmosphere.
Ubud: Artsy Ubud has tons of opportunities to connect through yoga, cooking classes, dance shows. Dive into the culture and connect with locals and fellow travelers.
Seminyak leans luxurious if you feel like treating yourself to fancy resorts, restaurants and beach clubs. Pamper yourself in style.
Uluwatu brings the gorgeous cliffs and beaches, plus the waves of course! Surf, hit the famous temple, and take in epic sunsets.
Canggu and Seminyak:
Canggu is tough to beat when it comes to the best places to stay in Bali for digital nomads (and is one of the best in the world), as well as being among the best places to stay in Bali for surfers. Seminyak offers indulgence with plenty of shops, bars, restaurants and spas.
📍$ Budget Option:
D’Canggu Homestay
Type: Standard double room
Rating: 7.8 Good
📍$$ Mid-range Option:
D’djabu Villas Canggu
Type: Double room with garden view
Rating: 8.1 Very good
📍$$$ Luxury Option:
ZIN Canggu Resort & Villas
Type: 1-Bed pool villa
Rating: 8.8 Fabulous
Roundup: Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak, Kuta, and Uluwatu are perfect options for solo travelers looking for a lively, relaxed, authentic, upscale, or cultural vacation. Each of these areas offers a unique atmosphere and the opportunity to meet other travelers and locals.
Best Things to Do in Bali
Looking for the best things to do in Bali? Fear not as I’ve got you covered below with some of the most popular activities to do on the island of gods.
Immerse yourself in an all-inclusive tour of Bali’s cultural center of Ubud, exploring rice paddies, water-temples, markets, and a monkey forest, go on a thrilling ATV quad bike trail through waterfalls and tunnels, and take a private boat tour of nearby Nusa Penida island to swim with giant manta rays, plus so much more!
Nusa Penida by Private Boat
Take a trip to Nusa Penida island on your very own boat and enjoy activities such as snorkeling colorful coral and fish, swim with giant Manta rays, and enjoy a private land tour of the best sights.
> Book your trip here:
Best of Ubud: All-inclusive tour
Take a day tour around the Ubud area to check out some of Bali’s most popular attractions. Stop at Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Tegenungan Waterfall, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, an art market where you can shop for souvenirs, Puri Saren Palace (Ubud Palace), and Tirta Empul Temple, known for its natural springs.
> Book your trip here:
ATV Quadbike through Tunnel and Waterfall
Experience the greatest Jungle ATV Ride or Quad Biking track in Ubud. Located in a rural stunning county side, designed to capture the spirit of a traditional Balinese village, a combination of local elegance and gracious hospitality for a truly memorable experience.
> Book your trip here:
Bali Instagram tour: Most Famous Spots
Instagram tour of all the top spots in Bali including magical sites like the Lempuyang Temple, Handara Gate, Tirta Gangga, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, and more. Includes tickets to Giant Swing and Giant Bird’s Nest, and WiFi on board vehicle so you can post to Instagram on the go.
> Book your trip here:
🛕 Tours to The Tirta Gangga Water Palace
- Immerse yourself into Balinese culture: Bali Gate of Heaven Temple and Blue Lagoon Snorkeling With Tirta Gangga
- Enjoy the Lempuyang Gate of Heaven Bali Tour | Tirta Gangga Water Palace | Virgin Beach
- Watch the spectacular inland sights on this tour: Lempuyang Gates of Heaven, Tirta Gangga Temple Swim & Jungle Waterfalls
Best Places to Stay in Bali FAQs:
If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Bali, don’t fret! There are tons of options in this post to help you find the perfect spot to meet your budget and preferences. Don’t be afraid to do some research and ask for recommendations, and check out the FAQs below:
Which area is best to stay in Bali?
With endless beauty across the island, the best area in Bali depends on your interests. Seek out lush jungles, rice terraces and temples in cultural Ubud. Find seaside luxury, shopping and nightlife in Kuta and Seminyak. Or chill with surfers in Canggu.
Which side of Bali has the best beaches?
Kuta Beach: This is a popular spot for surfers, and it’s also known for its lively nightlife scene.
Seminyak Beach: This is a more upscale beach area with many luxury resorts and high-end restaurants and bars.
Nusa Dua Beach: This area is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear water, and it’s a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Sanur Beach: This is a more family-friendly beach area with a laid-back atmosphere, and it’s known for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets.
Uluwatu Beach: This area is known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches, as well as its famous Uluwatu Temple and surf breaks.
Dreamland Beach: This is a secluded beach that’s less touristy, and it’s known for its beautiful white sand and clear water.
Is it better to stay in Ubud or Seminyak?
It depends what you’re looking for. Seminyak offers upscale resorts, posh restaurants and stylish beach clubs, while Ubud is Bali’s cultural heart with rice paddies, jungle, yoga retreats and artisan shops. Both amazing areas, but different vibes!
What is the best and worst month to visit Bali?
The best months are April-June and September-October, when it’s less crowded and prices are lower. Avoid July-August as it is peak tourist season with more crowds and rain. December-March brings more rain but also lush landscapes.
Is it better to stay in North or South Bali?
The south has more beaches, nightlife and tourist infrastructure, keeping first-timers near the main attractions. But the north offers scenic coastal towns, lush landscapes and authentic culture without the crowds. It just depends on the experience you seek!
What is the nicest place in Bali?
With its captivating culture, rich artistic heritage, verdant jungles, exquisite cuisine and welcoming locals, many consider Ubud to be the crown jewel of Bali. However, the island’s diverse landscapes offer paradise for all interests, from surfers and yogis to honeymooners and families. Bali’s splendor is boundless.
What part of the year is best to go to Bali?
Consider venturing to enchanting Bali between April and June, as well as September through October. During these drier months, alluring deals, smaller crowds and ideal weather let Bali’s magic shine. However, some prefer the lusher landscapes brought by the rains of December through March. Whenever one visits, Bali captivates.
Bali tourist information
What is the best way to travel around Bali?
The best way to get around the island is with a private local driver known as a ‘Bali driver’, it’s affordable and hassle free, giving you peace of mind whilst allowing you to visit hard-to-reach places.
Car: It’s left hand drive in Bali and the roads here are easy to navigate within villages and resorts, although they are very bumpy inland between regions. You can hire a rental car here.
Walking: It’s fairly easy and convenient to walk within the villages and on coastal resort towns.
Scooter: the most common way to get around for locals and tourists alike, it’s very easy to rent and ride a scooter here. You can book a scooter or bike here.
Air: Ngurah Rai International (DPS) Denpasar is Bali’s main airport, just 4km from Kuta and 36km from Ubud. You can book airport transfers here.
What is the best time to visit Bali?
May-September is the peak season to visit Bali for beach vacations and the best months for diving and snorkeling. August is the driest month. That said, December-March is less crowded in Bali with lower accommodation prices, whilst still being hot and sunny albeit with occasional showers.
Conclusion: Best places to stay in Bali: My favorite Areas and Hotels 2024
Bali is a tropical paradise that truly has something for everyone – whether you’re a couple, family, or solo traveler.
Looking for romance? Seminyak and Ubud have super romantic retreats, from luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels. Perfect for a couples getaway.
Families will love spots like Sanur with its calm beaches, or Nusa Dua for the family resorts with activities galore. Tons of fun for kids!
Solo travelers and backpackers should hit up Kuta for the party vibe, or Canggu to hang with surfers and digital nomads in a laidback atmosphere. Easy to meet friends!
And luxury lovers, you can definitely indulge in Bali. We’re talking posh cliffside resorts with views for days. But you can also find affordable gems in areas like Ubud.
Basically Bali has it all – culture, beaches, romance, adventure. I hope you enjoyed reading Best Place to Stay in Bali for young adults, couples and families, and that this gives you inspiration to start planning your own amazing Bali vacation!
Further Reading: more Bali posts
Scooter Rental in Bali: The Complete Guide (2024 Edition)
The Complete Packing List for Bali (+ FREE Travel Checklist)
Top 10 Best Places to go Glamping in Bali: My favorite Areas and Hotels 2024
Best Places to Stay in Bali: My favorite Areas and Hotels 2024
27 Amazing Things to Do in Ubud, Bali (2024 Edition)
