Bali looks small on a map. It doesn’t feel that way once you’re there. The island has busy beach towns, quiet rice fields, surf spots, jungle villages and mountain landscapes. Each area has its own personality, too.
Seminyak is stylish and lively, while Ubud trades beach clubs for temples, art and endless greenery. Canggu attracts surfers, cafés and digital nomads. Then there’s Uluwatu, where dramatic cliffs meet some of Bali’s best beaches.
Choosing where to stay can make a surprisingly big difference. Traffic can be slow, and crossing the island is not something you want to do every day. So before booking that beautiful hotel, it’s worth figuring out which part of Bali actually suits you.
Here are the best areas to stay, depending on what kind of Bali trip you have in mind.
In this travel guide:
Sanur
Best area for: beach, families
We love the laid-back speed of Sanur. It is vastly different from the chaotic energy of Canggu or Seminyak. Located on Bali’s southeastern coast, it was actually the island’s very first beach resort destination back in the 1930s. Today, it strikes a sweet balance. It functions as a quiet residential hub for expat families while still offering plenty for travelers.
The standout feature is the long paved boardwalk. It stretches roughly four miles along the coast. The outer reef blocks big waves, so the water stays calm and flat. It is ideal for an early morning swim or paddleboarding. You can also spot colorful traditional ‘jukung’ fishing boats resting on the shore.
If you want a great coffee, head to Sala Bistro along Jalan Danau Tamblingan. They pull fantastic espresso and serve an incredible all-day brunch. For dinner, Massimo is an absolute institution. Grab a pizza, but save room for their famous homemade gelato.
Best place to stay in Sanur
The Alantara Sanur. Address: Jl Tirta Ening, No. 12, 80228 Sanur, Indonesia.
Ubud
Best area for: nature, yoga
We fell in love with Ubud the moment we arrived. Tucked in the Bali highlands, it feels completely different from the coastal beach towns. The name comes from ‘ubad’, the Balinese word for medicine, because people historically came here for healing herbs.
It is a bustling, tourist-heavy cultural hub. You will find plenty of locals living here, but digital nomads and travelers definitely dominate the streets.
Scoot down the narrow roads and you will hit iconic spots right away. We spent hours watching chaotic macaques at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. The green cascades of the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are incredible to see in person. We also stopped by the historic Ubud Palace right in the center of town.
When you need a break from the humidity, head over to Seniman Coffee Studio. We grabbed a pour-over there, and the local beans are outstanding. Ubud gets crowded, but its unique energy keeps us coming back every time.
Best place to stay in Ubud
Resort Capella Ubud. Address: Jl. Raya Dalem, Banjar Triwangsa Desa Keliki, Kecamatan Tegallalang, 80561 Ubud, Indonesia.
Cheaper alternative:
Resort Como Uma Ubud. Address: Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Banjar Lungsiakan, Kedewatan, Kec. Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia.
Seminyak
Best area for: food, nighlife, beach
We spent a few days taking in the energy of Seminyak. Decades ago, this stretch was just a quiet fishing village surrounded by lush green rice paddies.
These days, it has completely shifted. It is now a high-end tourist hotspot packed with designer boutiques, slick day clubs, and luxury villas. You will not find much local residential neighborhood life here anymore.
The main attractions draw big crowds daily. We spent hours relaxing at Petitenget Beach, catching unbelievable golden sunsets over the ocean. Nearby, the ancient Petitenget Temple offers a quick hit of local spirituality amidst the modern buzz. At night, the iconic Potato Head Beach Club comes alive with music.
For coffee, you have to hunt down Revolver Espresso. Tucked down a narrow alley, this hidden espresso bar serves up hands-down the best cold brew and flat whites in town. The cool, dark interior provides welcome air-conditioned relief from the humid tropical heat outside.
Best place to stay in Seminyak
Katamama Seminyak. Address: Jl. Petitenget No.51B, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia.
Kuta
Best area for: beach, shopping, nightlife
We also spent a few days in Kuta, and it is absolute sensory overload. Before the surf culture exploded here back in the 1970s, it was just a quiet, humble fishing village. Now, it is one of Bali’s biggest tourist hubs.
We noticed right away that very few locals actually reside here permanently. The neighborhood is almost entirely geared toward travelers, packed end-to-end with sprawling resorts, neon nightlife, and souvenir stalls. It is loud, vibrant, and constantly moving.
The main draw is still the endless strip of sandy beach, where we spent hours watching beginner surfers attempt their first waves. Waterbom Bali is right in the area too, which lived up to the hype as a massive, world-class waterpark.
When we needed a breather from the chaotic streets, we ducked into Crumb & Coaster for breakfast. The air conditioning was a lifesaver, and they served us a killer flat white alongside huge brunch plates. It gave us just enough fuel to dive right back into the madness outside.
Best place to stay in Kuta
Amnaya Resort Kuta. Address: Jl. Kartika Plaza, Gang Puspa Ayu No. 99, 80361 Kuta, Indonesia.
Nusa Dua
Best area for: beach, families, resorts
Nusa Dua feels different from the rest of Bali. The government built this planned gated resort enclave back in the 1970s to keep mega-tourism isolated from local villages. It is strictly a tourist bubble filled with manicured lawns, big international hotels, and security checkpoints. You will not find much local residential life inside the main resort zone.
The main draw is the coastline. We checked out Water Blow, where huge Indian Ocean waves crash through a narrow limestone gap and spray high into the air. The beaches here feature wide stretches of white sand and very calm waters. That makes it a popular spot for paddleboarding and swimming compared to the rougher surf breaks elsewhere on the island.
For food, we stayed away from the basic hotel buffets and headed to Art Cafe by Bumbu Bali. They serve incredible, authentic Balinese food like slow-cooked duck and local satay. It gave us a real taste of local flavor right on the edge of the resort area.
Best place to stay in Nusa Dua
Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Gardens. Address: Kawasan Pariwisata Lot SW1, 80363 Nusa Dua, Indonesia.
Where travel critics stay in Bali
Want to know where travel critics from publishers like The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet stay in Bali? Check out our overview of all recommended hotels, hostels and B&Bs in Bali.
Budget
“Cepik Villa is a friendly, idyllic hideaway in lost-in-time Sidemen, with impossibly good service and luxurious rooms overlooking postcard-perfect rice paddies.” — New York Times.
Address: Banjar Tebola Sidemen, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80864, Indonesia.
Mid-range
“There’s one big plus point about staying at The Colony Hotel: no children under the age of 16 allowed. Not to be overlooked are the 20 rooms done up in a pretty but minimalist decor.” — CNN.
Address: Jalan Laksmana No.22, Seminyak, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia.
Luxury
“The open-air lobby overlooks the wind-latticed surf, while winding stone switchbacks lead past rows of white stone villas with carved wooden doors to a wide infinity pool that stretches to, well, the infinite horizon.” — CN Traveler.
Address: Jalan Goa Lempeh, 80361 Uluwatu, Indonesia.
FAQ: Bali hotel tips
Looking for the best budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Bali? Or maybe you’re a backpacker looking for an excellent hostel? Want to know which Bali hotel serves a great breakfast? Here are the answers to all those and other questions about where to stay in Bali.
How much does it cost to stay in a hotel in Bali?
If you’re looking to stay at a 3-star hotel in Bali then you’d have to pay around $35 per night, while a 4-star hotel would cost you around $80 per night. Luxury hotels in Bali, or 5-star hotels, would cost you around $210 per night.
What is the best budget hotel in Bali?
If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in Bali, then try Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas & Restaurant. It’s an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It’s in a good location, it’s been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also make sure you read our shortlist of the best cheap hotels in Bali.
What is the best boutique hotel in Bali?
You like some luxury but don’t like the famous chain hotels. If you’re looking for the best boutique hotel in Bali, you should check out Hotel Tugu. It’s a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts. Also make sure you read our shortlist of the best boutique hotels in Bali, it’s a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels on the island.
What is the best luxury hotel in Bali?
If money isn’t a problem and you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Bali, then go for Resort Capella Ubud. The hotel offers excellent service, it’s in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also make sure you read our shortlist of the best luxury hotels in Bali, it’s a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels on the island.
What is the best hostel in Bali?
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in Bali? Check out Lay Day Surf Hostel. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Bali.
Which Bali hotels offer the best views?
You can get some amazing views from Four Seasons Resort Sayan, Anantara Seminyak Resort, Blue Moon Villas Resort Amed or Cepik Villa Sidemen.
Which Bali hotels offer great breakfast?
If you’re looking for a Bali hotel offering a great breakfast, then one of the best options is Anantara Seminyak Resort.
Best time to visit Bali
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season from April to October. During this time, the islands are blessed with sunshine, blue skies and cool breezes, making it an ideal time for sightseeing, beach activities and exploration.
The rainy season runs from November to March, and it can be quite humid during this time. It’s still a great time to visit, as the rains usually arrive in the late afternoon and the temperatures are still balmy, so you can still enjoy the beaches and tourist attractions.
The most popular months are July and August when the weather is the most settled and the sea is the calmest. It’s also the busiest time of year, so you’ll need to book your accommodation and flights well in advance. You’ll also need to be prepared for higher prices during these months.
Best things to do in Bali
There are plenty of things to do in Bali and surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in Bali:
Best of Ubud Tour with Jungle Swing
Discover Ubud’s natural wonders, UNESCO-listed rice terraces, and sacred temples at your own pace on this private full-day tour. Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest, trek to the Tegalalang rice terraces, and tour a coffee plantation, then soar through the trees on a jungle swing. Price: $61. More info.
Bali: Full-Day Instagram Highlights Tour
Discover Bali on a customizable day trip to its most recognizable locations. From the Gate of Heaven to rural Ubud’s rice fields, experience firsthand photos you’ve seen already on Instagram. Price: $71. More info.
Best of Ubud: Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest
Discover the center of tradition and art in Bali on a private tour of Ubud. Experience its spiritual heritage with a visit to Batuan Temple. Go to Ubud Monkey Forest, enjoy lunch overlooking a lush green landscape near Tegalalang Rice Terraces and more. Price: $50. More info.
Deciding where to stay in Bali
As a closing note, let’s summarize this travel guide. We covered the best areas of Bali so you can decide which part of the island you want to stay in.
Top 5 areas to stay in Bali
- Nusa Dua
- Kuta
- Ubud
- Seminyak
- Sanur
As you have seen in this article, there are a lot of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Bali is important. Whether you stay in Nusa Dua, Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak or Sanur, all those neighborhoods are in good locations.
The atmosphere of the area, whether you travel for leisure or business, whether you travel with your family or friends, and proximity to the attractions you prefer to visit should probably be the deciding factors. Whatever your preference is, you’ll have a great time in Bali.
Bali overview
| 🏨 Hotel prices: | Cheap |
| 🛏 Budget hotel: | $70 |
| 💑 Boutique hotel: | $90 |
| ⭐ 5-star hotel: | $190 |
| 🌎 Best area for first visit: | Ubud |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Sanur |
| 💎 Best luxury hotel: | Bulgari Bali |
| 👫 Best boutique hotel: | Nirjhara Resort |
| 💰 Best cheap hotel: | Nusa Veranda Sunset Villas & Restaurant |
| 🎒 Best hostel: | The Farm |
More Bali tips
Take a look at our other guides about the best places to stay in Bali:
