Best Places To Stay In Bali – Top Areas, Attractions And Tips

Bali is a dreamland destination where you will have never-ending adventures and magical experiences. With pristine nature, incredible beaches, lively local traditions, and mesmerizing temples, you will never forget your time spent in Bali. 

The island is not that big, but it has different vibes and areas more suitable to some travelers than others. 

With this guide on the best places to stay in Bali, we will help you decide where to stay on the island. We have selected the ultimate towns in Bali that can accommodate different travel needs. In addition, we will give you the top attractions in each area and some useful tips to make your trip to Bali as easy as possible. 

When planning a trip to Bali, choosing where to stay on the island is crucial. The island has something unique around every corner, with areas perfect for relaxation and others for partying. 

This breakdown of the island’s towns will help you find the best places to stay in Bali that better suit your travel needs.

The main neighborhoods of Bali 

These are Bali’s best towns to stay in for an unmatched vacation.

1. Ubud – In the middle of the island, this is the perfect area to get inward and explore lush natural landscapes. 

2. Canggu – The spot for partying, surfing, and meeting people from anywhere in the world, Canggu is the hottest spot in Bali.

3. Kuta – With wonderful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Kuta is a popular spot in Bali that boasts cultural and natural attractions.

4. Uluwatu – In the southernmost part of the island, Uluwatu is where you will find Bali’s best beaches for sunset-watching and surfing.  

5. Seminyak – The many shopping opportunities, entertainment options, amazing beaches, lively nightlife, and luxury accommodations make Seminyak incredibly popular.

6. Sanur – This is the best spot to chill in Bali, thanks to the laid-back atmosphere, long sandy beaches, and fewer tourists. 

Bali travel tips 

How to get around

Bali isn’t a big island so you can travel between its northern and southern tips in just four hours. 

The best transport, and the locals’ favorite, is the scooter. Renting a scooter is incredibly cheap, and even fuel doesn’t cost much in Bali. You will find rental shops virtually everywhere.

Getting around by scooter is the most practical option; however, locals are reckless drivers, so you should be a confident driver to have a stress-free experience. Mind that locals communicate by honking: don’t make this throw you off!

They honk to say everything from ‘hello’ to ‘get out of my way’. Lastly, you need an international driver’s license to rent a scooter or car in Bali, although most rental places won’t ask for it. 

The other convenient option is using ride-sharing apps. In Bali, you will find Grab and Gojek, with the first one being more popular. The rides have similar prices in both apps, and most drivers speak English and are happy to chat with their clients. 

Lastly, you can decide to use local shuttles to get around. There are eight routes across the island, but you will find no evidence of this online. Once on-site, you can ask for information at your hotel, restaurants, or at local shops.

The most popular bus route is the one that runs from Kuta to Ubud. This service is operated by the company Kura-Kura.

Neighborhood map 

Below is a map of Bali that can assist you in selecting the best spot to stay on the island.

Plan your trip 

Dress For The Tropical Climate – Bali’s weather is hot and humid, so pack light fabrics such as linen and cotton. Shorts, t-shirts, dresses, sandals, swimsuits, and hats are all you will need.

Dress Appropriately When in Temples – Temples are sacred venues, so you need to follow a dress code to enter them. All genders must cover their knees and shoulders before entering a temple as a sign of respect. 

Tips in Bali – Tipping is not mandatory, but locals much appreciate it. You should tip servers between 5% to 20% depending on their service, while for housekeepers and porters, you should tip depending on how long you are staying. 

Get a Local SIM Card – Most tourist places have Wi-Fi, but a SIM card is essential to be always connected. Simpati is the provider with the best reception across Indonesia, and you can purchase their sim cards at the airport or in local shops in the towns. 

Know the Local Culture  – Indonesia is culturally diverse, and knowing which religion is practiced in which area is important to behave respectfully. Hinduism is prominent in Bali, but you will also find Muslims and Buddhists on the island.

1. Ubud 

What’s there and why visit

The island’s cultural hub, Ubud is the best area to stay in Bali for a truly local experience. The area’s natural landscape is breathtaking, thanks to the green rice fields inhabited by monkeys, stunning waterfalls, and impressive volcanoes.

Besides having spectacular nature, you will love strolling around Ubud to meet the friendly locals, discover their arts and crafts, and visit ancient temples.

Ubud is the perfect spot in Bali for a peaceful getaway, as the area doesn’t offer much nightlife. Plus, being away from the beach, Ubud is not popular among tourists, so it’s more tranquil than other areas. 

Suggested hotels near Ubud

Things to see near Ubud 

Tegalalang Rice Terraces – These rice fields are incredibly popular and for a good reason: they are stunning. At 600 meters above sea level, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces will welcome you with lush green meadows and palm trees. Around the fields are scattered a few swings and the famous ‘Love Bali Sign’, perfect for an Instagram pic. 

Saraswati Temple – Dedicated to Dewi Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom and art, this little temple is one of the best to visit in Bali. Upon arrival, you will be immediately drawn toward the breathtaking doors, with many elaborate details, and the gushing fountains. The whole temple features carvings of the goddess and other elements, such as dragons, flowers, and demon figures. At night, the temple hosts dance performances.

Ubud Monkey Forest – If you are looking to get a real feel of Bali’s nature, this is the place to go. The Ubud Monkey Forest is home to a troop of grey, long-tailed macaques who are so used to being around humans that they are particularly tamed. However, as monkeys are wild and territorial animals, it is always advisable not to pet them to avoid incidents (they bite!). Walking inside the forest and seeing monkeys in their natural habitat is a magical experience that will make your holiday.

Goa Gajah – Among the top attractions in Bali, Goa Gajah is also known as Elephant Cave. It is an impressive archaeological temple complex. Before entering the famous cave, you will need to pass through a lovely courtyard. The cave dates back to the 11th century, and inside there are carved paintings and a small shrine. Outside the cave is a Hindu temple with a bathing pool and fountains.

Getting there 

Tegalalang Rice Terraces – From Ubud’s center, take Jalan Raya Street until its end, and then turn north. After about 9 km, you will arrive at Tegalalang and see the rice fields on your right.

Saraswati Temple – Located right in the center of the town, from Ubud Palace, proceed in a northwesterly direction on Jl. Raya Ubud Street. After 130 meters, turn right on Jl. Kajeng Street, and in 80 meters, the destination is on the left.

Ubud Monkey Forest – From Ubud Palace, you can walk or drive for about 20 minutes on Jl. Hanoman Street to get to the forest. Alternatively, take the bus K4B and get off at the ‘Monkey Forest Ubud’ stop.

Goa Gajah – From Ubud Palace, drive in a southeasterly direction from Jl. Raya Ubud Street toward Jl. Karna Street for 1 km. Then turn right to Jl. Cok Gede Rai Street and in 1.7 km turn left on Jl. Raya Teges Street. After 1.5 km, the destination will be on your right.

Suggested activities in Ubud

Bali: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike and Natural Hot Spring – Join this sunrise hike to the top of Mount Batur to experience stunning views from the active volcano while learning about the region from an expert guide.

Ubud: Spectacular Waterfalls Tour – Immerse yourself in nature and soak up magnificent views of various waterfalls near Ubud with this guided tour, including a local lunch.

2. Canggu 

What’s there and why visit

Canggu is the most popular area in Bali for surfing, so it is always packed with locals and tourists. Due to its growing popularity, in Canggu you will find cool restaurants, trendy cafès, fun beach clubs, and hip stores.

If you are into meeting new people and staying at the beach, Canggu is among the best places to stay in Bali. 

The area also boasts cultural sites, in particular Pura Tanah Lot, a temple with an extraordinary location. The only downside of Canggu is that there are limited transportation options available, so you will need to rent a scooter or bicycle to go around.

Suggested hotels near Canggu

Things to see near Canggu 

Pura Tanah Lot – This Hindu site has an extraordinary location that makes it one of the most visited temples in Bali. It stands on top of a rock in the middle of the sea, so it can be reached only with low tide. Pura Tanah Lot is one of seven sea temples in Bali, and only Hindus can enter it. However, reaching the rock and admiring the temple from the outside is already an incredible experience. 

Batu Bolong Beach – This is Canggu’s most popular surfing spot. With a sandy bottom that makes surfing safe, there are two different breaks in front of the beach where you can try your surfing skills. Around Batu Bolong Beach, you will find several surfing clubs where you can rent equipment or arrange a surf lesson if you are a beginner. 

Canggu Market – This traditional local market, called Pasar Canggu in Balinese, is a perfect venue to mingle with locals and learn about Balinese culture. Mostly active in the early morning, the market sells fresh produce from local farmers and items such as fabrics, handicrafts, and clothes. Canggu Market is a fantastic spot for shopping!

Finns Recreation Club – This legendary club is the spot in Canggu for leisurely moments. Popular among expatriates and locals alike for its stylish setting and “beach club” vibes, you can access Finns Recreation Club by purchasing a daily pass. Inside, you will find swimming pools with waterslides, tennis courts, a bowling alley, and many bars and restaurants. You won’t get bored at Finns Club! 

Getting there

Pura Tanah Lot – From Canggu’s center, you need to drive towards Babi Guling Men Lari Street. After 1.2 km, turn left to take Jl. By Pass Tanah Lot/Jl. Raya Tanah Lot Street and proceed for 4.7 km. At this point, turn left on Jl. Tanah Lot Street and keep the street until the end to arrive on the coast from where you can reach the temple on foot. 

Batu Bolong Beach – From Canggu’s center, walk in a southwestern direction for about 20 minutes on Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong Street to get to the beach. 

Canggu Market – To get to it, you will need to walk in a northeastern direction for 1.5 km on Raya Batu Bolong Street. 

Finns Recreation Club – From Canggu Beach, drive on Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong Street, and after 1.1 km, turn right to take Jl. Nelayan Street. In 240 meters, turn left on Jl. Subak Canggu Street. After 320 meters, turn right to take Jl. Anggrek, and in 460 meters, turn right on Jl. Raya Semat Street. Proceed until you get to the intersection with Jl. Pantai Berawa Street, and turn left to take it. After 800 meters, turn right to stay on Jl. Pantai Berawa Street, turn at the first street on the left (Jl. New Canggu Club Street), and you will have arrived at the club.  

Suggested activities in Canggu

Canggu: 2-Hour Surf Lesson – Learn how to surf on Canggu Beach with this 2-hour private lesson with a professional instructor. 

Private Tour: Bali’s Sea Temple and Sunset on Canggu Beach – Join this private 6-hour tour of Canggu’s magical spots, including the breathtaking Tanah Lot Temple and Canggu Beach at sunset.  

3. Kuta 

What’s there and why visit

Kuta used to be the playground of every backpacker coming to Bali. Although the party-seekers have moved to Canggu, Kuta still offers a vibrant nightlife and many great restaurants, bars, and shops.

The town features the best hotels in Bali for a luxurious stay that won’t break the bank. Among the unmissable spots to visit are the iconic Kuta Beach and the superb Kuta Theater with traditional performances.

In Kuta, you will also find many beaches to practice your surfing skills and the Bali Sea Turtle Society.

Suggested hotels near Kuta

Things to see near Kuta 

Vihara Dharmayana Temple – One of the main religious venues in Kuta, this Buddhist temple is hidden away in a leafy backstreet. It boasts stunning detailed carvings and colorful murals that you can spend hours admiring. After a walk inside Vihara Dharmayana Temple, head to the courtyard and inhale the fragrant scent of incense. 

Kuta Theater – This big theater is the perfect spot to spend a night in Kuta. Comprising a series of stages, Kuta Theater stages various shows and performances that will delight adults and children alike. Don’t miss the special Lights of Faith show, based on a traditional story. The theater features a kitchen so you can dine while watching a show.

Bounty Nightclub – The most popular nightclub in Kuta, Bounty Nightclub is the best spot to experience the town’s party scene. The club has a design that mimics a ship, and the staff is dressed up in sailor garb to create the right atmosphere. You can enjoy your time on the karaoke stage or the dancefloor animated by DJs and dancers. 

Bali Sea Turtle Society – For an unforgettable experience, stop by the Bali Sea Turtle Society. This non-profit organization works to protect turtle eggs. From April to October, it commits to releasing the hatched turtles back into the wild. Upon a donation, you can participate in swimming off turtles into the sea.

Getting there

Vihara Dharmayana Temple – From Kuta’s center, walk in a southerly direction on Jl. Buni Sari Street. After 80 meters, turn left on Jl. Bakung Sari Street. In 330 meters, turn left to take Jl. Blambangan Street and the temple will be on the left.

Kuta Theater – From Kuta’s center, head to Jl. Tegal Wangi Street, and after 450 meters, turn left on Jl. Bakungsari Street. Keep walking for 800 meters, and the theater will be on the eastern side of Kuta’s Jalan Kartika Plaza.

Bounty Nightclub – From Kuta’s center, proceed in a northerly direction on Jl. Buni Sari Street. Keep walking straight on Jl. Raya Legian Street and the destination will be on your right after 450 meters. 

Bali Sea Turtle Society – From Kuta’s center, walk in a westerly direction on Jl. Pantai Kuta Street for 550 meters to reach the organization right on the beach.

Suggested activities in Kuta

Bali: 1-Day Instant Entry Ticket to Waterbom Bali – Have a fun day at Waterbom Bali, a waterpark with world-class slides immersed in a gorgeous landscape of lush gardens.

Mount Batur: Private Volkswagen Jeep Volcano Safari – Hop on a classic jeep and set off for an adventure in Bali’s mountainous area to visit an active volcano, rice paddies, and temples.

4. Uluwatu

What’s there and why visit

Tranquil Uluwatu boasts the best sunset views on the island. The great beaches, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent accommodation options make Uluwatu a perfect spot to stay in Bali.

The area is world-renowned for its surfing spots and excellent Balinese warungs, the small traditional restaurants where you can taste the very best of the local cuisine. 

Uluwatu is mainly a beach destination, so if you are interested in visiting cultural sites or doing activities immersed in nature, this might not be the best place for you. However, if you want to spoil yourself with a high-end vacation, know that Uluwatu features among the best luxury resorts and villas on the island.

Suggested hotels near Uluwatu

Things to see near Uluwatu 

Uluwatu Temple – This 1,000-year-old temple is simply just gorgeous. It is among Bali’s most visited temples for its location. It stands upon a limestone cliff, and it is frequented by the sneaky Uluwatu monkeys. Uluwatu Temple is a perfect sunset-watching spot, and during the golden hour, the temple hosts the traditional Kecak fire dance.

Balangan Beach – Soft white sand and blue waves characterized this free beach in Uluwatu. This spot is not excessively touristy, so it’s great to relax. However, it gets crowded at sunset as the cliff above the beach alongside the sun setting on the ocean make for a state-of-the-art photoshoot venue. 

Bingin Beach – This photogenic beach is a must-visit in Uluwatu. Golden sand and blue-green wavy waters make Bingin Beach a beloved surfing spot. The beach is not big but boasts exotic-looking boulders that are even more spectacular at sunset. Several restaurants and surf schools surround Bingin Beach, so it’s an ideal spot to linger for a whole day.

Suluban Beach – This is another unmissable beach in Uluwatu. Its main characteristic is a shipwreck accessible via a small hole hidden between rocks. The beach is inside a charming cave with crystal-emerald waters and fine sand. 

Getting there 

Uluwatu Temple – From Uluwatu’s center, walk in a westerly direction on Jl. Raya Uluwatu Pecatu Street and take the first street on the left. After 320 meters, turn right on Jl. Pedestrian Walk and the destination will be on the left.

Balangan Beach – From Uluwatu’s center, drive easterly from Jl. Raya Uluwatu Pecatu Street toward Jl. Batu Lesung Street. You will find a series of roundabouts: take the second exit from the first two roundabouts and the first exit at the third roundabout. After 3.2 km, turn left to take Jl. Pantai Balangan Street and turn slightly to the left after 180 meters. After 350 meters, turn right and drive until the end of the road to arrive at the beach.

Bingin Beach – From Uluwatu’s center, take Jl. Raya Uluwatu Pecatu Street in an easterly direction. After 5 km, turn left to take Jl. Labuansait Street. Continue on Jl. Pantai Bingin Street for 1.6 km to reach your destination.

Suluban Beach – From Uluwatu’s center, drive in a northerly direction on Jl. Pantai Suluban Street. Keep driving on it for 1,1 km and turn right on Jl. Pantai Padang-Padang Street. After 550 meters, turn left, and you will be at the beach in 350 meters. 

Suggested activities in Uluwatu

Bali Sunset: Uluwatu Temple, Kecak Dance and Jimbaran Bay – Join this group to watch the sunset from the spectacular Uluwatu Temple while attending the Balinese Kecak dance.

Paragliding Bali: Uluwatu & Nusa Dua Beach aerial tours – Fly along Bali’s southern cliffs piloted by a professional Paraglider pilot to marvel at unforgettable views.

5. Seminyak 

What’s there and why visit

Seminyak is one of the most popular areas in Bali. Its central location makes it an ideal place to stay for exploring other parts of the island.

Seminyak is famous for its beautiful beaches, upmarket resorts, luxury private villas, and five-star beach clubs. It should go without saying that the area has many tourists, but it isn’t overly noisy.

So if you are looking for an exciting mix of perfect beaches, amazing eateries, shopping opportunities, and a nightlife scene, Seminyak is the ideal accommodation in Bali. 

Suggested hotels near Seminyak

Things to see near Seminyak 

Pura Petitenget – This is one of Bali’s sea temples. With a very Balinese look, Pura Petitenget is built with red bricks and sandstones. The temple’s name links to a local legend saying that a 16th-century priest called Nirartha owned a magic box (‘petitenget’ in Balinese) that he hid on the site. Pura Petitenget is still used for religious ceremonies, so it’s an awesome spot to learn about local culture. 

Ku De Ta – This is the spot to be to experience the vibrant side of Seminyak. Ku De Ta is a popular beachside venue where you can have fun days and nights. Rent a sun lounger, sip a signature cocktail, and relax while admiring the ocean. Ku De Ta also features a restaurant and a resident DJ that animates the evenings.

Pura Masceti – Another stunning temple in Seminyak, Pura Masceti looks much like Pura Petitenget. However, this is not a sea temple but an agricultural temple, meaning it is the farmers’ prayer site. Locals visit the temple whenever they need help with their corps or to lay offerings before building a new house in the rice fields. 

Seminyak Yoga Shala – The island of Bali is a popular destination for yogis. One of the top locations for yoga and other practices, like Tai Chi, is Seminyak Yoga Shala. The venue offers a wide range of classes in a peaceful setting in the heart of town. You will also find a raw food cafe onsite to try out new foods. 

Getting there 

Pura Petitenget – From Seminyak’s center, drive in a southerly direction on Jl. Raya Seminyak Street. After 1.2 km, turn left to take Jl. Raya Taman Street, and then turn on the first street on the left (Jl. Kayu Aya/Jl. Laksamana Basangkasa). Turn on the first street on the right to remain on Jl. Kayu Aya Street. Proceed for 1.8 km, and then turn left to take Jl. Petitenget Street. In 95 meters, turn right to reach your destination.

Ku De Ta – From Seminyak’s center, follow the same road as if you want to go to Pura Petitenget. Once in Jl. Kayu Aya Street, stay on this road for 1.2 km and then turn left towards the beach to arrive at the destination.

Seminyak Yoga Shala – From Seminyak’s center, walk in a southerly direction on Jl. Raya Seminyak Street for 10 minutes until you arrive at Jalan Raya Basangkasa Street (No.1200 B), where the venue is located.

Pura Masceti – The temple is right beside Pura Petitenget.

Suggested activities in Seminyak

Seminyak: Balinese Cooking Class & Market Tour – Join this amazing 4.5-hour cooking class to learn how to make traditional Balinese dishes after shopping at the local market.  

From Bali: 3 Snorkeling Spots Tour to Lembongan and Penida – Discover the paradisiac landscape of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida islands with this boat tour that includes 3 different snorkeling spots.

6. Sanur 

What’s there and why visit

Bali is a popular destination among young people and digital nomads, but there is an area on the island that is perfect if you are traveling with your family or just looking for a quiet stay.

Sanur offers a laid-back vibe in every corner, from the long sandy beaches to the chill restaurants. With a great range of budget hotels, shopping spots, and massage venues, Sanur also offers easy access to the breathtaking Nusa Penida island. 

Sanur’s central location makes it an excellent base for visiting places like Uluwatu and Ubud. 

Suggested hotels near Sanur

Things to see near Sanur 

Sanur Boardwalk – One of the best activities to do in Sanur is taking relaxing strolls along its seaside promenade. Around 7 km long, this scenic footpath is lined by restaurants and cafes where you can spot delicious meals and refreshing beverages. The boardwalk also has a cycling path and several rent places along it. Sanur Boardwalk boasts awesome views of the Mount Agung volcano and skirts Sanur’s public beach.

Le Mayeur Museum – This memorial museum is the spot to visit if you want to learn more about art. It is dedicated to the life and works of Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres, a Brussels-born artist who moved to Sanur after one of his trips to Bali. Besides the works displayed inside, the house is gorgeous as it features traditional Balinese elements such as wood carvings and sculpted stone walls.

Sindhu Night Market – A must-do experience in Bali is visiting and shopping at local markets. In Sanur, the best one is the Sindhu Night Market, north of the town. Opened every day from 6 PM until 11 PM, this market is frequented by locals and tourists alike. It mainly sells food products, so it’s a fantastic spot for a traditional and cheap dinner!

Pura Blanjong Temple – This ancient Hindu temple boasts gorgeous architecture and rich history. The details on the doors and the stone statues are typical of Sanur. At Pura Blanjong Temple, you can see one of the oldest artifacts in Bali, a stone pillar with inscriptions about the first Balinese king.

Getting there 

Sanur Boardwalk – From Sanur’s center, you just need to walk easterly towards the coast. After 7 minutes, you will be at the Sanur Boardwalk.

Le Mayeur Museum – From Sanur’s center, drive in a northerly direction on Jl. Danau Tamblingan Street for 1.3 km. Then turn right on Jl. Danau Toba Street, and after 470 meters, turn right to take Jl. Ngurah Rai Street. In 900 meters, turn right on Jl. Hang Tuah Street, and then turn onto 4th Street to the right. The museum is at its end.

Sindhu Night Market – From Sanur’s center, walk in a northerly direction on Jl. Danau Tamblingan Street for 1.3 km. Then turn left to take Jl. Pungutan Street and the destination will be on the right after 30 meters.

Pura Blanjong Temple – From Sanur’s center, drive southerly on Jl. Danau Tamblingan Street. After 1.4 km, turn right to take Jl. Danau Poso Street and your destination will be on the left after 750 meters.

Suggested activities in Sanur

Bali: Day Trip to East Nusa Penida, Atuh & Diamond Beach – Join this day trip to the beautiful Nusa Penida island and follow its best attractions, like Diamond Beach and Teletubbies Hill.

East Bali: Snorkeling, Canyoning, and Waterfall Day Trip – Discover the best natural spots East Bali has to offer with this guided tour of Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon, Tegenungan Waterfall, and the Blue Lagoon, where you will snorkel.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Final Thoughts 

Bali is simply magical, with many incredible things to see and do in different areas. From leisurely walks in rice fields to surfing on beautiful beaches to admiring ancient temples, narrowing down the best places to stay in Bali can be a task. 

With this guide, we hope to have helped you figure out the town on the island that best suits your travel needs so that you can have an unforgettable time in Bali.