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Where to stay in Bali: 8 best areas and hotels + Map

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Are you wondering where to stay in Bali? Bali is a bigger island than many people think and choosing an area to stay can be a complicated task when planning a trip to this destination.

To make it easier for you, I have made a selection of the best areas to stay in Bali according to the type of traveler you are and what you are looking for. As for hotels in Bali, I can say that there are all kinds of accommodation, from hostels to luxury hotels. It is very easy to find a good place to stay that fits your needs, tastes and budget.

At the end of this post you will find a map of the island in which I have indicated the towns where I recommend staying, places to see on the island, affordable hotels in Bali and other hotel recommendations.

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Where to stay in Bali

I always say that there are two ways to travel in Bali. You can choose an area as a base and go to different parts of the island every day or change hotels every few days and thus have different bases during your stay in Bali. You can also do a combination of both.

In our case, we chose the first option. We booked a room in a guesthouse in Canggu for a month and, from there, we visited the rest of the island. To visit the north and east of Bali, being further away and having many places to see, we made excursions of two or three nights in each case.

Choosing one option or another depends on each one. My recommendation is that, whether you are going to be in Bali for only a few days or you don’t want to change your accommodation because it seems like a waste of time, stay in a central area. In this way, you will be able to reach almost all parts of the island in day trips. Another good option is to choose two areas as a base, so you only have to change hotels once.

Changing hotel location every few days can also be a good option, which is what I recommend in my 10 days in Bali itinerary and my 2 weeks in Bali itinerary, but keep in mind that you will take some time packing, checking out, checking in, going from one place to another, etc. Although you will also save time visiting the best places to see in Bali since you will be staying closer to them.

Whichever option you choose, I can already tell you that you will really enjoy your trip to Bali.

1. Seminyak, where to stay in Bali if you’re looking for nightlife

seminyak bali
Staying in Seminyak

Seminyak is a great area to stay for those who are interested in sightseeing as well as nightlife, shopping and fine dining during their time in Bali. In Seminyak you will find several of the best places to eat in Bali, tons of clothing stores (don’t miss Jalan Kayu Aya) and many options for partying.

The beaches don’t have many waves or tide (perfect for learning to surf) and you can enjoy very beautiful sunsets. As for touristic places, Seminyak does not have many places to see. However, you will be fairly close to Canggu and the northern part of the Bukit Peninsula (referred to, by many, as Uluwatu).

Best hotels in Seminyak

These are some of the hotels in Seminyak that are very good options:

  • $: Gelatik Bed And Breakfast. Hotel located 10 minutes walk from the beach. It has shared dormitories (mixed and female), private rooms, and family rooms. It houses an outdoor pool, and breakfast is served.
  • $$: Amerta Seminyak. This hotel very close to the coast offers double rooms, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar. Breakfast is available.
  • $$$: Aloft Seminyak. Very cool 4-star hotel. It features an infinity pool overlooking Seminyak and the sea. It also has a bar, restaurant, and gym. You can choose from several types of double rooms. Breakfast is served.
  • $$$$: The Buah Bali Villas. 5-stars hotel featuring one or two bedroom villas with private swimming pools. For even more enjoyment, it has room service, and breakfast is served.

2. Ubud, the best place to stay for sightseeing

best areas to stay in bali
Staying in Ubud

Ubud tends to be one of my most recommended areas to stay in Bali, due to its central location and the fact that it is home to many of the most interesting places to visit on the island. Ubud has a more spiritual and cultural atmosphere. Plus, it hosts some of the best waterfalls in Bali. You can also find numerous shops and restaurants of all kinds where you can have breakfast, lunch or dinner.

This small town in Bali is the perfect option for those who will be spending a short time on the island and want to be close to many tourist attractions. You will be able to take many day trips to other parts of the island from Ubud.

Some of the best things to do in Ubud are visiting the Monkey Forest, Campuhan Ridge Walk, Ubud Art Market, Tegalalang Rice Fields, Tirta Empul Temple, Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) and Saraswati. As you can see, you will be close to many temples of Bali.

Best hotels in Ubud

In my article on where to stay in Ubud, you will find more tips, but here are some interesting hotels for different budgets:

  • $: Pangkung Sari. Standard hotel, ideal if your budget is low but you want to stay in a private room. It has a small garden, a shared kitchen, and a breakfast option.
  • $. Buda Cottage Ubud. Budget hotel in Ubud offering double rooms (standard and deluxe) with kitchenette. It has a garden and a small outdoor swimming pool. Breakfast is served.
  • $$: Pondok Massas. Budget hotel in Ubud offering double rooms (standard and deluxe) with kitchenette. It has a garden and a small outdoor pool. Breakfast is served.
  • $$$: The Udaya Resorts & Spa. 3-star hotel in the south of Ubud. They offer double rooms, suites, and a 3-bedroom villa. Features an outdoor pool, ideal for lounging and sunbathing, and a restaurant.
  • $$$$: Komaneka at Bisma Ubud. Great 5 star hotel if you are looking for a luxurious and unforgettable stay. It has a couple of outdoor pools and views of the surrounding jungle. It also has a restaurant, spa center and gym. They offer suites and villas with one, two or three bedrooms.

3. Canggu, the best area to stay in Bali if you are visiting long term

canggu
Staying in Canggu

Canggu has been my home during my 4 trips to Bali and I have always had a very pleasant stay (although I must admit I think it’s becoming less and less charming…). However, it is still a very good option for those who, like me, are going to spend a long time in Bali. I also recommend it to those who want to stay in a fairly central area that is on the coast.

Something I love about Canggu is its surfing atmosphere and the amount of things to do in the area. It has many cool restaurants, clothing and accessory shops and markets, bars with live music, beaches from which to watch the sunset, beach clubs, etc. Really, you won’t get bored in Canggu.

However, it is becoming an increasingly crowded and noisy place… I used to consider it the best place to stay in Bali if you are going to stay on the island for a long time, but now I think other options on this list are better.

I recommend Canggu especially to digital nomads as here you will be able to meet many people who make a living online, apart from having many coworking spaces and cafes to work from.

Some of the best things to do in Canggu are watching the sunset from Echo Beach, visiting Tanah Lot Temple, surfing, going in search of rice paddies and going to as many cafes as possible.

Best hotels in Canggu

In my guide on where to stay in Canggu, you will find more hotel options.

  • $: Asung Guesthouse (my hotel). We’ve stayed here countless times and always felt at home, thanks to the lovely staff. The guesthouse offers double rooms, a beautifully manicured garden with an outdoor pool, and a shared kitchen.
  • $: The Uma Guesthouse. A great budget-friendly option in Canggu. It features double rooms, a lovely garden, an outdoor pool, a shared lounge, and a shared kitchen.
  • $$: Maylie Bali Bungalows, A 4-star hotel on the outskirts of Canggu, consisting of charming bungalows and villas. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, a bar-restaurant, and a communal lounge. Breakfast is included.
  • $$: Umah CinCin (my hotel). During one of our long stays in Bali, we lived in one of these spacious villas for several months and absolutely loved it. Each villa comes with a private pool 91
  • $$$: Kano Canggu. An amazing hotel in the heart of Canggu, offering beautifully decorated double rooms. It features an outdoor pool, and breakfast is included.
  • $$$$: Mayana Villas. A luxurious 5-star accommodation offering one- and two-bedroom villas, each with a private swimming pool. Breakfast is included.

4. Uluwatu, for beach and surf enthusiasts

uluwatu
Staying in Uluwatu

If you are visiting Bali in search of beaches or the best waves, I recommend Uluwatu. Uluwatu is located In the Bukit Peninsula, southern part of the island. Here you can find some of the best beaches in Bali, cliffs with amazing views and beach clubs. Plus, it is a paradise for surf lovers, especially for those who already have experience. If you are learning, it is better to go to the beaches in Kuta or Canggu.

I do not recommend Uluwatu as a base to visit the rest of Bali, as it is far from many tourist attractions. However, if you have more time and you are going to have several places as a base, I really recommend to spend a few days here to relax and explore everything that this area has to offer.

Some of the best things to do in Uluwatu are enjoying the view from Karang Boma Cliff, visiting Uluwatu Temple and spending the day at Sundays Beach Club. Do not miss the next beaches: Green Bowl, Melasti, Belangan, Padang Padang, Bingin, Thomas Beach, Nyang Nyang, etc.

Best hoteles in Uluwatu

You can consult my article on where to stay in Uluwatu for more options, but next I leave you several places to stay in this area of Bali that are very well.

  • $: Kayu Tua Villa. 2-star hotel perfect if your budget is low. It has rooms and bungalows. There is a small swimming pool and shared kitchen.
  • $$: Telaga Sari (my hotel). We stayed here on a stay in Uluwatu and liked it. It has an amazing garden and outdoor pool.
  • $$$: Hari Indah Boutique Hotel & Spa. Beautiful 4-star hotel with double and deluxe rooms, all nicely decorated. There is an outdoor swimming pool, bar, and restaurant.
  • $$$: Oceanna. It is one of the most beautiful hotels in Uluwatu, as it has a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the vegetation and the sea. It offers double rooms.
  • $$$$: Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa. Incredible 5-star hotel ideal if your budget is high or you want to treat yourself. There are deluxe rooms, suites, and a presidential villa. It also has 4 swimming pools, a gym, a spa, a bar, and a restaurant.

5. Munduk, where to stay in Bali to visit the north

where to stay in bali
Staying in Munduk

Northern Bali is an area that some people forget to visit. I understand that if you only have a week in the destination, you don’t have time to go. However, if you are going to spend more time in Bali, I highly recommend visiting the north, specifically Munduk. Munduk is a mountainous area full of waterfalls and a couple of lakes.

It is much quieter than other parts of Bali and has a more local atmosphere. I also warn you that the temperatures are cooler, so don’t forget to bring a jacket if you are going to visit the north. I recommend staying here for one or two nights.

Some of the best things to do in the north of Bali are visiting the Pura Ulun Danu Batur Temple, Handara Gate, Wanagiri Hidden Hill, Banyumala Waterfall, Gitgit Waterfall, Aling Aling Waterfull and Sekumpul Waterfall.

Best hotels in Munduk

These are some of the best hotel options in the north of Bali:

  • $: Adila Warung and Homestay. Standard hotel ideal for a pleasant stay in the north of the island. There are double and family rooms. It has a restaurant, breakfast is served and, the best thing, it has very cool views.
  • $$: Lesong Hotel and Restaurant. Hotel lost among rice fields, perfect to disconnect and visit the surroundings. It has a swimming pool, a restaurant, and breakfast is served. They offer double rooms and family suites. The setting is spectacular.
  • $$$: Sanak Retreat Bali. Charming 4-star hotel with spectacular views of the surrounding rice fields and mountains. There is an outdoor swimming pool, bar, restaurant, and terrace. You can stay in one of the bungalows (one, two, or three bedrooms).
  • $$$$: Munduk Moding Plantation. It is one of the most famous hotels in the north of Bali, mainly for its infinity pool, which boasts incredible views. They have several rooms, some with private swimming pools. There is also a restaurant.
  • $$$$: Munduk Cabins. 4-star hotel with several cabins built among the vegetation. The setting is spectacular. There is a swimming pool, bar and restaurant.

6. Amed, best place to stay to visit the east

amed bali
My suggestion in Amed

I found East Bali to be a real wonder and an essential place to visit. During our trip to the island of the gods, we spent 4 days visiting this area as there is a good variety of things to do, from temples to great places to dive. Removing the most touristic places, it is a very quiet area that is well worth a visit.

I recommend you do a day trip if you have little time. If you have more time, I advise you to go and spend a few nights.

If you are going to spend several nights in this area, I recommend staying at Amed Beach, a beach with impressive views of Mount Agung. Here you will find many accommodation options, restaurants and agencies with which you can dive. It is a very good option to stay in Bali if you are looking for a quieter place but without giving up good restaurants and things to do.

Some of the best things to do in Amed and its surroundings are visiting Lempuyang Temple and Tirta Gangga Temple, diving at Amed Beach, watching the sunset from Lahangan Sweet and watching the sunrise from Bukit Cinta.

Best hotels in Amed

These are the hotels I recommend in Amed:

  • $: Bubu Racok Homestay. Very basic hotel but with good reviews, perfect if your budget is low. It offers several types of double rooms. It is located in front of the beach and serves breakfast.
  • $$: Amed Beach Villa. Hotel located on the coast offering double rooms. It has a swimming pool with sun loungers and a rooftop terrace overlooking the beach and Mount Agung. Breakfast is served.
  • $$Bali Dive Resort Amed (my hotel). We stayed at this hotel located in front of the beach. They have double rooms with a simple but nice decoration. There is a swimming pool in front of the beach restaurant, and they serve breakfast. There is a diving center.
  • $$$: Nalini Resort. 4-star hotel, also on the coast but a little further from the center of Amed. They offer rooms, bungalows, and suites with sea views. There is also a swimming pool, bar-restaurant, and breakfast service.

7. Sidemen, calm area between rice fields

where to stay in bali
Sidemen

If you wish to visit a much more authentic side of Bali full of magic without fancy villas, beach clubs, and cafes, I recommend spending several nights in Sidemen during your trip to this island of Indonesia. We stayed in a hotel in the area on more than one occasion, and the experience never disappoints.
 
Sidemen is known for its incredible rice paddies and beautiful views of Mount Agung. In addition, it is a much less developed area, which is why you will have the opportunity to see a more rural and attractive Bali in certain senses.
 
In Sidemen, you will be able to enjoy peace, visit waterfalls, cross rice fields, marvel at the landscapes, and, the best part, come into contact with local culture and people. There are many beautiful bamboo lodges, so it is a good place to indulge yourself.

Best hotels in Sidemen

In Sidemen, don’t miss the following hotels:

  • $: Embang Homestay. Simple hotel but perfect to enjoy the incredible natural environment and the tranquility of Sidemen. There is a bar-restaurant, and breakfast is served.
  • $$: Sawah Indah Villa. A 3-star hotel with a very nice swimming pool surrounded by greenery and overlooking the rice fields. There is a bar, restaurant, and massage center.
  • $$$: Patal Kikian Villa. This hotel has one of the most incredible swimming pools in Bali thanks to its views of the jungle and Mount Agung. They offer rooms, suites, bungalows, and villas. There is a bar-restaurant, and breakfast is served.
  • $$$: Hideout Bali (my hotel). Hotel featuring bamboo villas, each one with a unique and different shape. It is one of the most unique hotels in Bali. Staying in one of its small houses is an amazing experience.

8. Nusa Dua, for a more luxurious stay

nusa dua bali
Nusa Dua

If you are going to Bali for your honeymoon or you want to spend several nights next to a beautiful beach in an exclusive zone, I recommend you consider Nusa Dua, located on the peninsula of Bukit (the same place as Uluwatu). Nusa Dua is known for hosting some of the best luxury hotels on the island and for its paradisiacal beaches and golf courses.
 
Unlike other places where to lodge in Bali that I have mentioned until now, Nusa Dua is not a good option as a base and to visit other part of Bali since it is something far from the main tourist attractions. However, if you are looking for beaches and relaxation in a more luxurious atmosphere, it is a great option.

Best hotels in Nusa Dua

These are some of my recommendations in Nusa Dua:

  • $$: Kubu Garden Suites & Villas Nusa Dua. Hotel a few minutes walk from the beach that has double rooms and a villa with a private pool. It has an outdoor pool, bar, and restaurant, and breakfast is served.
  • $$$: Amnaya Resort Nusa Dua. A 4-star hotel with well-kept facilities. They offer double rooms and suites. The outdoor swimming pool is spectacular, as is the garden. There is also a bar, restaurant, and wellness center. Breakfast is served.

Frequently asked questions about where to stay in Bali

Below, I will answer briefly some of the most frequently asked questions related to this topic.

Which is the best area to stay in Bali?

If I could only recommend one area to stay and explore in Bali, it would be Ubud. It is a touristic hub in Bali and has a central location, making it easy to reach other parts of the island. Additionally, it is surrounded by waterfalls, rice fields, and temples. Ubud also offers a wide range of hotels and dining options.

Can you visit the whole island from Ubud?

As mentioned previously, Ubud has many tourist attractions and is a great starting point to visit other areas due to its central location. However, some areas, such as Amed, are farther away and worth staying overnight to fully enjoy them.

What kind of hotels are available in Bali?

Bali offers a wide range of accommodations for all tastes and budgets. The main types include:

  • Guesthouses. Family-run accommodations with private rooms and shared spaces like kitchens, gardens, and pools. They are affordable and provide a local experience.
  • Hotels/Resorts. Available in different categories, offering more formal services and facilities.
  • Hostels. Ideal for solo travelers or those on a tight budget, with shared dorms and a social atmosphere.
  • Villas. Perfect for a private and exclusive stay, often featuring gardens and private pools.

The two types of hotels I like the most and highly recommend are guesthouses and private villas.

Where to stay in Bali with children?

If you are going to travel to Bali with small children, some of the most recommended areas to stay are Nusa Dua, Sanur, and Jimbaran (all on the coast). They are more relaxed places and have hotels that are very well. In addition, the beaches are calm and shallow, ideal for bathing. Some of the lodgings have children’s clubs.

Uluwatu or Canggu?

Those looking to stay long-term in Bali often debate between Uluwatu and Canggu. Years ago, I would have 100% recommended Canggu because of its endless restaurants, cafés, and vibrant social scene; you meet lots of people, and there’s always something happening.

However, now I’d recommend Uluwatu instead. Canggu has become overcrowded, with heavy traffic, constant noise, and too many people everywhere. Meanwhile, Uluwatu has grown significantly in recent years, offering more services while still maintaining a calmer and more relaxed atmosphere than Canggu.

Map of the best areas to stay in Bali

I have created this map to help you choose accommodation.

You will be able to see marked in red (icon of the house), the main areas to sleep in Bali; marked in orange, the different hotels that I recommend (with their respective links to Booking); marked in purple, affordable hotels; and, finally, marked in blue, places to visit.

You can click on each of the boxes in the drop-down menu on the map to see the areas, hotels or places to visit. This will make it much easier for you to plan your trip and find accommodation in Bali.

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I hope that this post about where to stay in Bali has been very useful when looking for hotels for your trip. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to leave a comment or write me an email. Until next time, traveler!

Picture of Sofía Pozuelo
Sofía Pozuelo
Hi! I'm Sofia, creator of Come Ama Viaja. Traveling has been my greatest passion since I was a child. Besides exploring the world, I love walking in the countryside, specialty coffee, and Neapolitan pizza. I hope you find my travel guides useful!

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Interactions with readers

2 Responses

  1. Vijaylutchmie Naidoo says:

    How is the place Nusa Dua to stay in.

    1. SofiaPozuelo says:

      Hello! It is a good place to stay in Bali as well, yes. You have nice resorts and beaches! It is a great option especially for families!

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