The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Area to Stay in Bali
Known for it’s stunning beaches, lush rice paddies and unique culture, there’s no wonder why Bali is such a popular travel destination! With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay on the island. Bali is home to a variety of areas, each with its own unique atmosphere and attractions. From the bustling streets of Kuta to the serene beaches of Nusa Dua, each area has something different to offer.
We spent two months traveling around Bali and managed to see so much of the beautiful island. In this article, we will explore the best areas to stay in Bali based on your interests and travel style. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous getaway, there’s an area in Bali that’s perfect for you.
Disclaimer: Some of the links included on our website may contain affiliate links. We may receive some commission from purchases made via these but it will NOT affect the price you pay. This is to allow this site to stay online and ensure that readers use, what we believe, are the best products possible whilst travelling.
When is the best time to visit Bali?
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, which runs from April to September. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, with low humidity and little rain. This is ideal for outdoor activities, such as surfing, hiking, and exploring the island’s many temples and cultural sites.
The wet season, from October to March, brings heavy rain and high humidity. Understandably, this makes it less desirable for travelers. However, some may prefer to visit during this time for the lower prices and smaller crowds.
Overall, the best time to visit Bali depends on your preferences and travel plans, but the dry season is generally the most popular time to go.
What is the best way to get around Bali?
We have a full guide explaining how to get around Bali so make sure to check this out! Nonetheless, the top ways to get around tend to be by moped or by hiring a driver and taking tours.
Taxis, Grab and other ride hailing apps are also available and are effective ways to get around. However, public transport is limited and we don’t personally recommend that visitors rent their own car.
How long to spend in Bali?
The ideal length of stay in Bali depends on the individual traveler and their travel plans. However, most visitors typically stay for around 7-10 days to experience the island’s beaches, culture, and outdoor activities.
We personally spent two months in Bali and could have easily stayed longer! Some people visit and never leave and others will just go for a short vacation.
Where to stay in Bali
1. Ubud – The best area in Bali for yoga and wellness retreats
Ubud is known for its rich cultural and artistic heritage. It is surrounded by lush rice paddies, scenic landscapes, and traditional Balinese villages.
Visitors can explore the town’s many temples, such as the Tirta Empul water temple and the Goa Gajah cave temple. You should also make sure to attend some traditional dance and music performances in Ubud.
Ubud is also a hub for artists and artisans, with many galleries and workshops showcasing traditional Balinese crafts like woodcarving and painting.
Nature lovers can take a hike in the nearby rice paddies or visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where you can view the monkeys up close and personal.
Best things to do in Ubud
- Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: The sanctuary is home to over 700 Balinese long-tailed monkeys, making it a popular attraction in Ubud. Visitors can observe the monkeys in their natural habitat and even feed them bananas.
- Explore the rice terraces: Ubud is surrounded by lush rice paddies that offer scenic hikes and walks. The Tegallalang Rice Terrace is a popular spot to witness the beauty of the rice paddies. We also managed to visit Kanto Lampo Waterfall on the same day!
- Visit the temples: Ubud is known for its many temples, including the Tirta Empul water temple and the Goa Gajah cave temple.
- Attend a traditional dance or music performance: Ubud is a hub for traditional Balinese dance and music. Visitors can attend performances at the Ubud Palace or Pura Dalem Ubud temple.
- Explore the art scene: Ubud is a centre for artists and artisans, with many galleries and workshops showcasing traditional Balinese crafts like woodcarving and painting. The Blanco Renaissance Museum and Museum Puri Lukisan are two popular museums to visit.
Where to stay in Ubud
2. Seminyak – The best area in Bali for nightlife and beach clubs
Seminyak is a beach town located on the west coast of Bali and known for its luxurious resorts and upscale dining and shopping options.
The town features a long stretch of sandy beach, ideal for surfing and sunbathing. It’s home to some of the island’s most popular beach clubs, such as Ku De Ta and Potato Head.
Seminyak’s bustling nightlife scene offers a range of bars and clubs, while the town’s traditional markets and boutiques offer a unique shopping experience. Seminyak’s location also makes it a great base for exploring other areas of Bali.
Best things to do in Seminyak
- Relax on the beach: Seminyak has a long stretch of sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is lined with beach clubs, cafes, and restaurants, offering a variety of food and drink options.
- Visit a spa: Seminyak is known for its luxurious spas and wellness centres. Each offers a range of treatments, from massages and facials to yoga and meditation classes.
- Explore the nightlife: Seminyak offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs to choose from. Popular venues include La Favela, Motel Mexicola, and Mirror Lounge & Club.
Where to stay in Seminyak
3. Uluwatu – The best area in Bali for surfing holidays
Uluwatu is a coastal area located on the southern tip of Bali, Indonesia. You’ll have undoubtedly heard of it thanks to its stunning beaches, surf breaks, and clifftop temples.
The area is famous for the Uluwatu Temple, a Hindu temple perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. It offers panoramic views and traditional Kecak fire dance performances.
Uluwatu is also home to many surf spots, including the famous Uluwatu surf break, which attracts surfers from all over the world. The area is also known for its luxury resorts and fine dining restaurants, offering a luxurious and tranquil escape.
Best things to do in Uluwatu
- Visit the Uluwatu Temple: This iconic Balinese temple is situated on a cliff above the Indian Ocean and offers breathtaking views of the sunset. Visitors can witness traditional Kecak fire dance performances held in the temple’s amphitheatre.
- Surf at Uluwatu: The area is famous for its surf breaks, including the famous Uluwatu surf break, which attracts surfers from around the world.
- Explore the beaches: Uluwatu has several stunning beaches, such as Padang-Padang Beach and Dreamland Beach. Both of which are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
- Visit the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park: This park features a massive statue of the Hindu god Vishnu riding the mythical bird Garuda. Visitors can also enjoy cultural performances and exhibits.
Where to stay in Uluwatu
4. Canggu – The best area in Bali for digital nomads
Canggu is a beach town located on the southwest coast of Bali, Indonesia and extremely inviting for those seeking a laid-back atmosphere, surfing and beach clubs.
From budget hostels to luxury villas, this town has a range of accommodation options. Canggu’s beaches, such as Echo Beach, are popular among surfers and as you can imagine, it has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many beach clubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from.
Canggu is also home to many yoga studios and wellness centres, making it a popular destination for health and wellness enthusiasts.
Best things to do in Canggu
- Surf at the beaches: Canggu has several popular surfing beaches, including Batu Bolong Beach, which offer waves suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers.
- Visit the Tanah Lot Temple: This iconic Balinese temple is located on a rock formation in the sea and offers stunning views of the sunset.
- Relax at a beach club: Canggu is home to many beach clubs, such as The Lawn and Finn’s Beach Club, which offer sun loungers, cocktails, and delicious food.
- Take a yoga class: Canggu has a thriving yoga scene, with many studios offering a range of classes, from Vinyasa to Yin. Some popular studios include The Practice and Samadi Bali.
Where to stay in Canggu
5. Sanur – The best area in Bali for families
Sanur is a coastal town located on the southeastern coast of Bali, Indonesia, known for its long stretch of white sand beach and calm waters.
The town has a more relaxed atmosphere than some of Bali’s more touristy areas, making it popular with families and older travelers.
Sanur’s beachfront is lined with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, and there are plenty of water sports and activities on offer, such as snorkeling and paddleboarding.
Sanur is also home to a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts.
Best things to do in Sanur
- Visit the Sanur Beach: This long stretch of white sand beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in a tranquil atmosphere.
- Walk or bike the Sanur Beach Promenade: The 5km long paved walkway is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. It offers beautiful views of the beach, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the way.
- Explore the mangrove forest: Sanur is home to a huge mangrove forest, which can be explored by boat. Visitors can see a range of wildlife, such as birds, monkeys, and crabs.
- Visit the Bali Orchid Garden: This beautiful garden features over 1,000 species of orchids and other exotic plants. Visitors can take a guided tour or wander around the gardens themselves.
- Visit the Turtle Conservation Center: A small shack on Sanur Beach where the staff protect and hatch turtles ready for release back into the ocean.
Where to stay in Sanur
6. Jimbaran – The best area in Bali for a honeymoon
Jimbaran is a small fishing village located on the southwestern coast of Bali, known for its beautiful beaches and fresh seafood.
The town has a more relaxed atmosphere than some of Bali’s more touristy areas, making it popular with families and honeymooners.
Jimbaran’s beachfront is lined with many seafood restaurants and cafes, which offer a range of delicious fresh seafood dishes. The town is also home to several luxury resorts, which offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding hills. Jimbaran is a great place to relax and enjoy Bali’s natural beauty.
Best things to do in Jimbaran
- Enjoy a seafood dinner on the beach: Jimbaran is famous for its fresh seafood, and many restaurants offer beachfront dining, with tables set up on the sand.
- Visit Jimbaran Bay: This beautiful crescent-shaped bay is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset.
- Take a surfing lesson: Jimbaran is home to several surf schools, offering lessons for beginners and advanced surfers.
Where to stay in Jimbaran
7. Kuta/Legion – The best area in Bali for budget travelers and surfing
Kuta is a popular tourist destination located on the southern coast of Bali. It is known for its long stretches of white sand beaches, great surf, and lively nightlife.
Kuta is a popular spot for budget travelers looking for affordable accommodations, restaurants, and shopping. The area is also home to the Waterbom Bali water park, which is a popular attraction for families.
While Kuta can be crowded and busy, it remains a popular destination for those looking for a fun and vibrant atmosphere.
Best things to do in Kuta
- Surfing: Kuta is one of Bali’s most popular surfing spots, with consistent waves that are perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
- Waterbom Bali: This water park is a great place to cool off on a hot day, with thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and a range of other water activities.
- Nightlife: Kuta is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that stay open late into the night.
Where to stay in Kuta
8. Amed – The best area in Bali for snorkeling and scuba diving
Amed is a small coastal town located on the northeastern coast of Bali, known for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and excellent diving and snorkeling.
The town is home to a variety of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury villas, and there are many restaurants and cafes along the beachfront.
Amed’s beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, and there are many dive shops in the town offering diving trips to nearby sites, such as the USAT Liberty shipwreck.
Best things to do in Amed
- Snorkel or dive the USS Liberty Shipwreck: This famous dive site is home to a diverse range of marine life, including schools of colourful fish, sea turtles, and octopuses.
- Visit Amed Beach: This black sand beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in a tranquil atmosphere.
- Visit the Pura Lempuyang Temple: This beautiful temple complex is located on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Where to stay in Amed
9. Lovina – The best area in Bali for dolphin spotting
Lovina is a small coastal town located on the northern coast of Bali, Indonesia, known for its black sand beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and excellent dolphin-watching tours.
The town is less touristy than some of Bali’s more popular destinations, making it a great place to relax and enjoy Bali’s natural beauty.
Lovina’s beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, and there are many restaurants and cafes along the beachfront offering fresh seafood and other local dishes.
Best things to do in Lovina
- Dolphin Watching: Lovina is famous for its early morning dolphin watching tours, where you can see pods of dolphins jumping and playing in the sea.
- Visit Banjar Hot Springs: These natural hot springs are located in a lush tropical garden and are a great place to relax and unwind.
- Visit Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Temple: This beautiful temple complex features stunning architecture and is the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali.
- Visit the Gitgit Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located in the nearby mountains and is one of Bali’s most famous waterfalls.
Where to stay in Lovina
10. Nusa Islands – The best area in Bali for relaxing
The Nusa Islands are a group of three islands located southeast of Bali, Indonesia. They are Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan.
Known for their crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning natural landscapes, the islands are popular among travelers seeking a more laid-back and remote island experience.
Nusa Penida is the perfect spot for scuba diving, snorkelling and surfing so you won’t struggle to fill your time during your stay!
Best things to do in The Nusa Islands
- Snorkeling and Diving: The Nusa Islands are known for their beautiful coral reefs, and there are many dive shops on the islands offering snorkeling and diving trips to nearby sites.
- Visit Devil’s Tear: This natural phenomenon is a cliff formation that creates a dramatic water display as the waves crash into the rocks.
- Surfing: Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are popular surf spots, with waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
- Visit Dream Beach: This beautiful white sand beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning views.
- Visit the Yellow Bridge: This iconic yellow bridge connects Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan and offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding islands.
Where to stay in The Nusa Islands
11. Gili Islands – The best area in Bali for backpackers
The Gili Islands are a group of three islands located off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air.
Known for their crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning natural beauty, the islands are popular among travelers seeking a more laid-back island experience.
Activities on the islands include snorkeling, diving, surfing, and exploring the natural beauty of the islands, including beaches, waterfalls, and hilltop viewpoints. There are also many restaurants and cafes on the islands offering fresh seafood and other local dishes.
Getting to the Gili Islands can be a bit tricky, but we promise, it’s worth it!
Best things to do in The Gili Islands
- Snorkeling and Diving: The Gili Islands are known for their incredible coral reefs, and there are many dive shops on the islands offering snorkeling and diving trips to nearby sites.
- Visit Gili Trawangan Night Market: This bustling night market offers a range of delicious street food, handmade crafts, and live music.
- Take a silver making class: We had an amazing experience jewelery making in Gili T and would recommend everyone give it a go
- Island Hopping: The islands are close enough to each other to explore them all in a day, with each island offering its own unique atmosphere and attractions.
Where to stay in the Gili Islands
12. Nusa Dua – The best area in Bali for a luxury vacation
Nusa Dua is a luxurious resort area located on the southeastern coast of Bali. It is known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and five-star hotels and resorts.
The area is perfect for travelers looking for a more upscale and relaxing vacation, with many high-end restaurants, spas, and golf courses. Nusa Dua is also home to the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center, making it a popular destination for business travelers as well.
The area offers a variety of water sports activities and is a great place to watch the sunset.
Best things to do in Nusa Dua
- Enjoy the Beaches: Nusa Dua is home to some of Bali’s most beautiful beaches, including Geger Beach, Mengiat Beach, and Sawangan Beach.
- Visit the Museum Pasifika: This museum showcases the art and culture of the Asia Pacific region, with an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.
- Take a Balinese Cooking Class: Learn how to cook traditional Balinese dishes with a hands-on cooking class, and taste the delicious results!
- Explore the Bali Collection: This open-air shopping complex features high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, and is a great place to shop for souvenirs.
- Try Water Sports: Nusa Dua offers a range of water sports activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving.
Where to stay in Nusa Dua
FAQs
Most people generally say that the Seminyak/ Canggu area of Bali has the best beaches but we personally felt that Sanur and Uluwatu had much better beaches in comparison! Both the Nusa Islands and Gili Islands just off of Bali had some of the best beaches we have ever been to.
While Bali is generally a safe place for travelers, there are some areas that visitors should avoid. The main areas to be cautious of are those that are known for high crime rates or that have a reputation for being dangerous. These areas include Kuta and Legian, which are known for pickpocketing and theft, as well as areas that are prone to natural disasters like landslides or floods. Travellers should also be careful when visiting remote areas of Bali that may not have the same level of infrastructure or safety measures in place. It’s always a good idea to research the safety of any destination before travelling there.
Ubud, Bali, captivates long-term visitors with its serene ambience, lush landscapes, and spiritual energy. Its vibrant art scene, yoga retreats, organic eateries, and proximity to rice terraces and ancient temples make it an ideal destination for immersing oneself in Balinese culture and self-discovery.
Canggu, Bali, is the epitome of a digital nomad’s paradise. With its vibrant coworking spaces, reliable high-speed internet, breathtaking beaches, healthy food options, and thriving community, it offers the perfect balance between work and play.
Sanur, Bali, is a haven for families seeking a memorable vacation. With its calm waters, pristine beaches, and abundance of family-friendly resorts, it offers a safe and peaceful environment. The nearby attractions, cultural sites, and array of activities ensure a delightful experience for the whole family to cherish.
Follow Us!
