In my opinion, Bali is the prettiest island in all of Indonesia. It is a tropical paradise that everyone should look to visit while in southeast Asia. Even though some island areas have become commercial and there are many tourists, there are still entirely untouched places. However, figuring out where to stay in Bali can be a challenge.
The island offers a bit of both, which is one of the main reasons I loved it when visiting back in 2015. Hinduism shapes Bali, and it is visible in every corner of the island. That’s why a lot of people call it the “Island of Gods.”
READ MORE: Bali features heavily in our list of glamping locations in Southeast Asia
Hundreds of temples decorate the place, and the old volcanos, colourful local culture, and excellent beaches all have something to offer.
Top 10 places to stay in Bali
Where to stay in Bali?
Finding the best places to stay in Bali can be difficult. Since I’ve visited the island many times and explored what it has to offer, I can give you some suggestions on where to stay in Bali.
Tabanan
Tabanan is one of the most popular regencies of Bali when it comes to tourism. When you ask tourists about where to stay in Bali, most of them will say Tabanan. The whole coastline is impressive with a terrific view and this is a great reason to pick this area when visiting this island getaway.
Soori Bali is a huge property that spreads almost throughout the whole coastline of Tabanan. This accommodation is super luxurious and a perfect location where you can escape from all the commotion. Pool suites, deluxe rooms, and private rooms give more diversity in terms of budget, but the Soori Bali resort isn’t for people looking to travel on a budget.
Ubud
Ubud is often seen as the cultural and artistic centre of the island. It’s undoubtedly one of the best areas to stay in Bali because of its location and the fact there are plenty of things to do in Ubud, such as visiting the Ubud Palace or the Sacred Monkey Forest. Besides being located in a unique enclave, surrounded by rice fields, it stands out for its variety of restaurants and shops, since it is the most popular area to stay in Bali.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, maybe choose Pertiwi Bisma 2, which is a luxury property at the heart of Ubud. Visitors don’t have to worry about going around Ubud while having a place where they can relax and unwind. All of the rooms overlook beautiful pools and gardens. Pertiwi Bisma also has an on-site spa which can be a great option if you get bored of the ocean.
The place is close to all of the most known attractions of the area, including the Monkey Forest. That makes it one of the best places to stay in Bali.
Seminyak
People looking to visit Seminyak can choose between some of the best places to stay in Bali. If you want to feel all the luxury and benefits of a top hotel for a small price, you should check out the Socialista Lifestyle Hostel. Digital nomads, solo travellers, and backpackers can find everything they need at this hostel.
It is located at the centre of Seminyak with all the hotspots around. When I visited this region for the first time, I was amazed at just how quiet this place is, even though it is right in the heart of all events. It is a residential area southwest of Bali and is very well known for its beaches, nightlife, and amazing atmosphere.
Kuta
Kuta today has become a popular beach destination in its own right, alive with tourists from all over the world, swimming, surfing or sunbathing by the beach. If you are an outgoing person who likes to meet the locals and get a feel for how most of them live, this is the place to be. Even though it’s really cheap, the service is top-notch, and the design looks impressive with polished concrete.
A lot of people who stay there, choose Cara Cara Inn, which is a fun place with a funky character that offers a lot of fun. It is a top-end hostel that’s fitted in a villa, where guests can hang out in the lounge and meet other guests, soak in the sun, or take a dip in the pool.
Sanur
Most travellers who choose Sanur, do so because of the diving. Known for its incredible seabed nearby and its proximity to the famous and underrated Gili Islands, Sanur is a popular destination for adventure travellers. It is a small area, but well worth the visit for the underwater sights.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, this resort is located on Sanur Beach, where you can feel the sand under your feet as soon as you get up in the morning. This place is the perfect option if you want to hide under the palm trees, take a swim whenever you want, and not worry about a thing.
Rooms are traditional and elegant, with fantastic furnishings and tiled floors. It is a beautiful resort with lots of pools, massages, restaurants, and even a library.
Uluwatu
Uluwatu is a scenic, hilly area in the southwest corner and is named for the famous temple perched on the cliffs. The Padang Padang Beach is also well-known in the area, where you can surf or go swimming. If not, rent a bike and go to the Uluwatu Temple that’s nearby.
Known for its blue waves, impressive sea cliffs, white sand beaches, fancy clubs, and top quality surfing, Uluwatu is one of the top places to stay in Bali. It is also just a 1-hour drive from Kuta, Canggu, and the other popular tourist hotspots in Bali Indonesia.
Visitors to the area can stay at this hotel, which looks like an old beach hut, but it is a very luxurious place with a fantastic view. It’s located high up on a cliff with a great overview over the sea. The design of this hotel is rustic because it fits in perfectly with the surrounding nature with its recycled bamboo elements.
Tulamben
Tulamben is actually a small fishing village to the northwest but is great if you love the ocean and nature. It’s probably the most famous location in Bali to dive and is known for the American shipwreck Liberty, which was sunk by the Japanese in 1942. Tulamben is also close to the temples in the northwest of the island, such as Pura Besakih or Pura Lempuyang.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, we might suggest Matahari Tulamben Resort, Dive & Spa, which is a simple, but a well-located resort that offers you affordable lodging. This beach-front property is a popular location for many visitors to Tulamben.
Canggu
If you want something a bit more laidback in Bali, look no further than Canggu. It is a refreshing change to the urban layout of Seminyak and not as uptight as the luxury enclave of Nusa Dua. In fact, over the years the bohemian vibes of Canggu have made this town the hippest neighbourhood in Bali.
To capture the essence of Canggu, we suggest Sense Canggu Beach Hotel. This offers you the option of both rest and play and is situated in the outskirts of Canggu. It is a four-star hotel with 39 modern suites set around a pool and plenty of hangout spots, so you won’t ever feel bored.
Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is known for being a place with international luxury hotels, deluxe spas, exclusive golf courses, and even a world-class convention centre. That doesn’t take much away from its natural beauty and the fact it is a hotbed for nightlife and local food.
Though most travellers are spoilt for choice, you can’t go wrong with The Lovina. This is an amazing beachfront resort with the same name as the beach itself. For me, this is the best area to stay in Bali if you want to enjoy a magnificent beach in Balinese villas with all the top amenities. Go paddleboarding, snorkelling, learn Balinese dance, visit top restaurants, and enjoy yourself.
READ MORE: Read the Travel Wanderlust Indonesia travel guide
Legian
Legian is one of the many places to stay in Bali if you want to go to parties. There are lots of clubs and bars that are always packed. Known best for the beach that stretches 2 km connecting to Kuta Beach.
While the beach scene is also similar to Kuta, Legian is actually a bit more relaxed, while still maintaining that party atmosphere that Bali is well-known for.
The Pullman Bali Legian Beach Hotel is located right on the beach and gets you as close as possible to the action, along with some fantastic amenities.
These are some of the top places to stay in Bali. Take your time to figure out which area you want to visit so that you can pick the best accommodation for your destination. Good luck and have fun!
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