Check out Bali on a world map, and you’d be forgiven for assuming it’s a small island. It’s solely a fraction of the scale of neighboring Java, in any case. Upon arriving there, nonetheless, you could be stunned to search out out simply how large Bali is. On this information, I’ll assist you determine the place to remain in Bali — regardless of your journey fashion.

The Island of the Gods covers 2,230 sq. miles (5,780 sq. km) and is dwelling to over four million folks. Along with the seashores, there are a handful of huge volcanoes and lakes right here. There are even three smaller islands off the southeast coast which are technically a part of Bali. With a lot occurring, it may be a problem to determine the very best locations to remain in Bali.

I’ve realized rather a lot about Bali since my first journey a few years in the past. I fell in love with the island (as many individuals do) and returned to discover extra of the off-the-beaten-path areas. Even that wasn’t sufficient, so I joined the Darmasiswa Program and moved there for a yr to review Indonesian language and tradition.  

On this information, I’ll introduce the very best locations to remain in Bali, breaking it down by area of the island and totally different classes. Whether or not you’re searching for a calming seaside trip, the very best locations to surf, someplace to get your zen on, or the celebration hotspots, I’ll level you in the best path.

Take a look at this whole checklist of the place to remain in Bali and begin planning your journey!

Where To Stay in South Bali

Let’s begin with the world that the majority vacationers go to and discover. Dwelling to a number of seashores – some good for browsing and others for swimming – that is the place folks flock for a little bit of solar & sand.

Right here you’ll discover the chaotic capital of the island, Denpasar. Whereas that is the title of the airport you’ll fly into, it’s truly situated south of the town correct in Kuta. As you would possibly count on, that is far and away probably the most developed and touristy a part of the island.

Usually talking, it’s a bit wilder on the west facet of South Bali and calmer on the east. The west facet is the place you’ll discover the waves and subsequently, the browsing crowd. That is additionally the place beachside bars vie in your consideration (and Rupiah) to take in the sundown. As soon as darkness falls, the celebration will get going on the many golf equipment.

The western facet of the southern a part of Bali can be dwelling to Canggu, a digital nomad hotspot filled with coworking areas and cafes. For those who’re interested in digital nomad life in Bali, take a look at this submit on residing in Canggu.

Over on the east facet, you’ve obtained the expat and retiree hub of Sanur. It’s a bit slower over right here, main some to confer with the world as “Snore”. The water is calm over right here and so is life. You’re extra more likely to run into a standard Balinese procession than a bunch of hard-partying backpackers right here.

However wait, there’s extra! Head south of the airport and you’ll end up on the Bukit Peninsula. This rugged and rocky space is dwelling to a few of Bali’s most gorgeous seashores, a few of which may solely be reached by steep staircases. You’ll additionally discover the gnarliest waves on the island down right here at Uluwatu.

Lastly, there’s a trio of smaller islands off the coast. Recognized collectively because the Nusa Islands, these are: Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida. Reached by a brief ferry experience from the primary island, these make for an ideal base in case you plan to spend most of your time in Bali underwater.

Right here’s a rundown of the totally different components of South Bali and what they’re recognized for. Hopefully these descriptions assist you determine the place to remain in Bali in your journey.

Where to Stay in South Bali for Browsing 

Seize your surfboard and hit one in all these enjoyable seaside cities. 

Canggu

Bali is well-known as a browsing vacation spot, and among the finest locations to carve up some waves is Canggu. There are a number of totally different seashores to select from in this space, with Echo Seaside being a well-liked spot for intermediate/professional surfers. It’s simple to search out boards for hire at many locations on the seaside and there are a number of surf faculties in case you want some steerage.

After an enormous day of browsing, you’ll be able to catch yet another waves at sundown and experience it proper into the celebration at Previous Man’s. This beachfront bar and restaurant is all the time hopping and is the proper place to unwind after an enormous day in the water.

For those who’re a surfer that additionally works remotely, you’ll be blissful to listen to that Canggu can be a digital nomad hotspot. It’s positively among the finest locations to remain in Bali in case you’re working on-line, and one of many prime locations to go to in Bali.

Listed below are a few prime locations to remain in Canggu:

• Koa D Surfer Lodge: there’s rather a lot to like about this surfer lodge, from the funky design to the gorgeous rooftop pool. 
• Surf Lodge: this place is only a brief stroll to the seaside and is surrounded by nice cafes and eating places. 
• Sense Seaside Lodge: after ripping it up in the ocean all day, the swim-up bar right here is the proper place to retreat to. 

Uluwatu

Some of the legendary browsing spots in Bali is Uluwatu. Positioned on the far south finish of the Bukit Peninsula, it’s important to work for the waves right here. To start with, you’ll want to hold your board down a steep flight of stairs, nevertheless it’s value it whenever you get to experience some critically epic barrels right here.

After browsing, you’ll be able to submit up at one of many cliff-side warung right here to get pleasure from low cost massages and ice chilly Bintang beers. Single Fin is among the most taking place bars on the island, particularly on Sunday nights.

Along with browsing, it’s also possible to take a look at some of the well-known temples on the island. Uluwatu temple is situated on the cliff and is stuffed with naughty monkeys. There’s additionally an incredible sundown kecak efficiency right here that you just don’t wish to miss.

Listed below are a few nice locations to remain in Bali if you wish to log on at Uluwatu:

• La Bomie: breathtaking views and an incredible location make this a wonderful base in case you’re browsing in Uluwatu. 
• Radisson Blu: an unimaginable pool and an enormous free breakfast are simply among the causes it’s worthwhile to e-book this place.
• DeSapphire Cliff Villa: this laidback resort has attractive wood villas and an enormous pool, and it’s a brief journey to Padang-Padang Seaside. 

Where to Stay in South Bali for Partying

Among the greatest events in Southeast Asia occur in Bali. Listed below are some prime spots to remain in case you’re trying to drink and dance the evening away.

Kuta/Legian

For those who’ve come to Bali to celebration continuous, then look no additional than the Kuta/Legian space. This space is stuffed with bars and golf equipment that hold the celebration going into the wee hours of the morning.

Throughout the day, you’ll be able to nurse your hangover on the seaside with a recent younger coconut and a therapeutic massage. It is a hotspot for partiers and finances backpackers and there are many locations with good Comfortable Hours whenever you’re able to get the celebration began once more! (Word: pay attention to scams in this a part of Bali.) 

Right here’s a listing of among the greatest locations to remain in Bali in case you’re trying to celebration it up in Kuta:

• D Beds Hostel: with snug dorms for lower than $10 and privates for a couple of dollars extra, you’ll have additional cash to burn on the golf equipment by staying right here. This is among the extra budget-friendly locations to remain in Bali.
• Adys Inn: for one thing a bit of extra relaxed and snug, take a look at this place which has a pool and breakfast included. 
• Grandmas Plus Legian: situated in the center of Legian, this lodge has 1000’s of excellent opinions in order that they have to be doing one thing proper. 

Seminyak

Whereas Kuta/Legian has extra of the hard-partying backpacker vibe, Seminyak presents a bit extra subtle scene. It’s simply north from the primary celebration zone, nevertheless it feels worlds aside.

Right here you’ll discover some nice boutique procuring, and fashionable seaside golf equipment like Ku De Ta and Potato Head, among the hottest locations to see and be seen in Bali. One in every of my private favorites is the colourful La Plancha. Plop down in a bean bag, order a cocktail and some seafood, and settle in for an additional stunning sundown.

Listed below are some prime locations to remain in Seminyak: 

• M Field: that includes a bar, terrace, and billiards desk, this hostel is a good spot to fulfill fellow vacationers to celebration with. 
• Harris Lodge: a pool, gymnasium, and a spa for lower than $50 an evening? That’s what you get staying right here! 
• Double-Six Luxurious Lodge: in case you’re keen to splurge a bit in your lodging, a premium ocean-front suite at this superior lodge is an effective name. Learn our assessment of the Double-Six Lodge right here. 

Take a look at our article Where to Stay in Seminyak for a listing of quite a few lodging for all budgets. 

Where to Stay in South Bali for a Quiet Trip

Whereas partying in Bali might be enjoyable, for {couples}, mature travellers, households or solo explorers who simply wish to sit back, don’t fear, there’s a spot for you. 

Sanur

For many who choose a little bit of peace and quiet, Sanur is the place for you. It’s a much more mellow vibe over right here on the japanese facet of the island, the place you will get an early begin to your day by watching a stunning dawn.

The ocean is sweet and calm right here, which suggests you gained’t discover the browsing crowd and the celebration that often accompanies them. Sanur is a good alternative in case you’re touring with youngsters because it’s a secure place to swim.

Among the best components about staying in Sanur is the lengthy ocean-front path that’s just for pedestrians and cyclists. There are few locations in Bali the place you’ll be able to truly get pleasure from a stroll or a motorcycle experience with out the fixed buzz of motorbikes.

Sanur can be an ideal home-base in case you’re hoping to do some snorkeling or diving, and it’s a brief ferry experience away to the Nusa Islands. I lived in Sanur for many of my yr in Bali and love the sluggish tempo of life there.

Listed below are among the greatest locations to remain in Sanur:

• Karmagli Boutique Suites: this adults-only resort presents you an opulent tropical getaway at an reasonably priced fee. 
• Pondok Ayu: this standard guesthouse in a neighborhood neighborhood is understood for its pleasant employees. Additionally they present free airport transfers! 
• Maya Sanur Resort & Spa: with a number of swimming pools, eating places, a spa, a gymnasium, and a rooftop backyard all simply steps from the seaside, this place has been described by many visitors as paradise.

Where to Stay in South Bali for Diving and Snorkeling

Bali could be recognized for browsing, nevertheless it has some superb diving and snorkelling alternatives as effectively.

Nusa Islands

Talking of the Nusa Islands, they’re your greatest wager in South Bali if you wish to do loads of snorkeling or diving. These three islands are situated only a 30-minute boat experience away from Sanur and are teeming with marine life and stunning reefs.

From the primary island, Nusa Lembongan is first. This island is the preferred and thus has extra decisions for lodging. It’s a reasonably small island that you could simply get round on a rented scooter. Or simply spend your days in the water and your evenings chilling by the pool or in a hammock!

Subsequent up is Nusa Ceningan, which is related to Lembongan by a bridge. That is the smallest of the islands and there isn’t a complete lot occurring right here, however there are a number of good locations you’ll be able to keep.

Lastly, there’s Nusa Penida. By far the largest of the three, it’s the place you’ll discover extra locals. There’s rather a lot to find right here, from epic viewpoints to gorgeous seashores to an enormous temple in a cave.

Right here’s a advice for a spot to remain on every island.

• Kampuak Cottages: with solely three cottages and a pleasant pool, that is the proper place to return to after a day of exploring Nusa Penida or diving. 
• Nusa Veranda Sundown Villas: sundown from an infinity pool on Nusa Ceningan. Want I say extra? 
• LGood Lembongan Island Villas: deliver some buddies alongside to this place and e-book a 3-bedroom villa with your personal non-public pool!

Where to Stay in South Bali for a Luxurious Trip

Celebrating a special day, or simply wish to splash out in Bali? Whereas you will get unimaginable lodging in many locations in Bali, that is one space the place you’ll get pleasure from a extra luxurious trip. 

Nusa Dua

Thus far in this information on the place to remain in Bali, we’ve coated browsing, partying, and diving. However what in case you simply wish to pamper your self and get pleasure from a luxurious trip? Nusa Dua is strictly the place you wish to be!

That is positively the place the fabulous folks keep in Bali. Nusa Dua is dwelling to a number of 5-star resorts and the world-class Bali Nationwide Golf Membership — however, most of the luxurious locations to remain are additionally very reasonably priced.

Nusa Dua is a best choice for touring households and honeymooners. The seashores are calm, it’s a really secure space, and it’s good and quiet at evening. Listed below are a number of of the highest locations to remain in Bali in Nusa Dua:

• INAYA Putri Bali: with a number of swimming pools, non-public seaside cabanas, three eating places, and a seaside bar, you’ll by no means wish to go away this 5-star lodge.
• Amnaya Resort: this place in the Benoa space presents luxurious lodging at an reasonably priced worth.
• The St. Regis Bali Resort: how does your personal beachfront villa with a personal pool sound? I believed so.

Where To Stay in Central Bali

Whereas a majority of vacationers come to Bali for a seaside trip, there’s much more to the island. Central Bali presents loads of alternatives for journey. Go on a dawn hike of Mt. Batur, swim in a speeding waterfall, or embark on an thrilling ATV tour.

For those who’d choose one thing a bit extra mellow, you’ll be able to go on a peaceable stroll by the rice fields, indulge in a day on the spa, or follow yoga.

Ubud is the cultural heart of the island, with a number of Balinese temples, artwork museums, and yoga studios. The city hosts a number of festivals all year long, together with the Reader’s and Author’s Pageant and the Bali Spirit Pageant.

It’s not simply yogis who flock to Ubud, although. The city can be some of the standard locations to remain in Bali for digital nomads. You’ll discover loads of nomads from everywhere in the world right here plugged in on the coworking areas and cafes.

Up in the mountains, the small city of Munduk is a good base for exploring Central Bali. It’s fairly cool up right here and a pleasant break from the sweltering warmth of the south.

One other up and coming vacation spot in the world is Sidemen. It’s sort of like Ubud 20 years in the past, as there are nonetheless extra farmers than vacationers right here.

Let’s take a more in-depth take a look at these totally different areas and the place to remain in Bali must you journey to the middle.

Where to Stay in Central Bali for Yoga

Bali is called being a religious place and it’s no shock that practising yoga is among the greatest issues to do in Bali. 

Ubud

For those who’ve come to Bali to do yoga, then Ubud is looking. There are yoga studios of all shapes and sizes right here, many with open-air rooms overlooking rice terraces. That is the place I fell in love with yoga, and I’m actually not the primary to have that have!

Some of the standard locations to follow yoga in Ubud is the Yoga Barn. They’ve a number of courses a day ranging in issue, and additionally they provide particular courses in issues like Tibetan gong meditation. There’s additionally an incredible and tremendous wholesome restaurant right here.

There’s greater than yoga occurring in Ubud, although. You too can take a look at the Monkey Forest, see a Balinese dance efficiency, or peruse the native market. It’s additionally an ideal base for visiting locations just like the Tirta Empul water temple.

Listed below are among the greatest locations to remain in Ubud:

• Puri Backyard: this place has a cinema, pool, and stunning courtyard for yoga courses. 
• Ubud Aura: you are able to do yoga right here or stroll only a few minutes to the Yoga Barn. 
• Bali Bohemia Huts: this simply could be probably the most superbly embellished guesthouse in Bali!

Where to Stay in Central Bali for Journey

Climbing volcanos, temple-hopping, and rice paddy walks, there’s extra to Bali than the underwater world.

Munduk

For those who’re questioning the place to remain in Bali to greatest benefit from the pure great thing about the island, it’s arduous to prime Munduk. This chilled-out native city in the mountains is situated close to the three lakes of Central Bali.

Round right here, you’ll be able to go mountaineering, take a look at the botanical gardens, or go to one of many island’s most essential temples. Different choices embody visiting the famed Jatiluwih rice terraces or sampling the product at a neighborhood espresso farm.

Listed below are some nice locations to remain in Munduk:

• Umah De Madya: you’ll get superb mountain views out your window and from the terrace. 
• Dong Paloh Hostel: it is a good spot to fulfill fellow vacationers and pleasant locals. 
• Nadya Homestay: espresso on the terrace with views of rice paddies is all it’s worthwhile to know! 

Where to Stay in Central Bali for R&R

The last word place to sit back out in Bali. Swing in a hammock, benefit from the view and wander across the pure great thing about the world. 

Sidemen

Pronounced see-da-men (not side-men), this little city is among the greatest locations to remain in Bali in case you’re simply trying to calm down and benefit from the surroundings. There actually isn’t a lot occurring right here, and that’s exactly the attraction!

Days in Sidemen might be spent strolling by the rice fields and alongside the river, or simply having fun with the views out of your villa or a neighborhood restaurant.

That is additionally an ideal base for visiting Pura Besakih, which is called the Mom Temple in Bali. It’s additionally not too removed from Mt. Agung — the most important volcano on the island and a difficult hike (when it’s not lively!).

Listed below are some prime locations to remain in Sidemen:

Where To Stay in East Bali

Journey to the east coast of Bali, and you’ll really feel such as you’ve gone to a different island completely. Whereas there are nonetheless seashores over right here, it couldn’t be any totally different from the bustling cities of the South.

Right here you’ll discover black sand seashores with extra fishermen than beer-guzzling vacationers. They will not be the prettiest seashores, however they positive are extra stress-free than those down south!

The primary draw for touring to the east coast is to get pleasure from world-class scuba diving and snorkeling. The cities of Amed and Padang Bai are nice locations to remain in case you plan to spend most of your time underwater.

One other standard spot in this space is Candidasa. Right here you’ll discover a sensible choice of lodging and eating places, making it a pleasant dwelling base for exploring the area. And, it’s additionally place to base your self for scuba diving, take a look at Gangga Divers at Lotus Bungalows. 

The east coast is unquestionably among the finest locations to remain in Bali if you wish to get pleasure from some peace and quiet, absorb the native tradition, and take in some unimaginable surroundings on land and underneath the water.

Where to Stay in East Bali for Diving and Snorkeling

The very best locations to base your self for offshore diving off the east coast! 

Amed

On the East Coast of Bali, there’s a cluster of villages which are collectively often known as Amed. Individuals right here typically make a residing from fishing and salt manufacturing, though a small tourism trade has sprouted up right here because of the world-class snorkeling and diving which are attainable simply offshore.

You’ll be able to simply seize your snorkel and head to the seaside right here. There’s even a small shipwreck close to the shore that you could take a look at. You too can rent a fishing boat to take you round to some totally different spots.

As well as, there are a number of dive outlets right here that present coaching in case you’re trying to get licensed. From right here you’re not too removed from Tulamben, which might be the very best dive website on the island. Though it’s not very developed, you continue to have loads of decisions in relation to lodging in Amed.

Listed below are among the greatest choices:

Padang Bai

One other among the finest locations to remain in Bali for enjoyable underwater is Padang Bai. It’s not fairly as far north as Amed, so you may have a shorter journey time to get right here from the airport or seaside cities in the south.

Along with diving and snorkeling, it’s also possible to calm down the attractive Blue Lagoon Seaside. A close-by Hindu temple on the hillside supplies some superior views of the bay down beneath.

One other bonus of staying in Padang Bai is that you could catch ferries from right here to go over to the Gili Islands and the primary island of Lombok. For those who’re a diver, you’ll positively wish to spend a while over there!

Listed below are some really useful locations to remain in Padang Bai:

Where To Stay in East Coast Bali for a Enjoyable Trip

Some of the chilled-out cities in Bali and an ideal place for stress-free, or basing your self for diving excursions. 

Candidasa

Right here’s one other title of a Balinese city that’s a bit tough for confused bule (foreigners). This one is pronounced “chan-dee-dah-sah,” so don’t be stunned if locals giggle whenever you name it “candy-dasa.”

Sadly, short-sighted growth right here led to the destruction of the seaside. Whereas there isn’t a seaside to calm down on in city, you’re only a brief drive away from what simply could be probably the most attractive seaside on the island — Virgin Seaside.

Candidasa can be the proper base for visiting Bali’s gorgeous water temples. Each Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung are simple to get to from city. These each make for a peaceable and gratifying outing. They’re particularly photogenic, so you’ll want to deliver your digital camera.

Listed below are among the greatest locations to remain in Candidasa:

• Candi Seaside Resort & Spa: in a city with no seashores, they managed to make their very own non-public one. 
• Alam Candi: go to sleep to the sound of the waves crashing at this peaceable resort.>Click on right here to test costs on Reserving.com.
• Lodge Genggong: get pleasure from ocean views from your personal non-public terrace.

Bonus! Goats On The Highway stayed at and advocate Lotus Bungalows for an ideal vacation. The meals on the restaurant was tasty (breakfast is included), the infinity pool was divine, the onsite Gangga Divers dive store was skilled, and the lovable little bungalows have been nice. The very best half? Lotus Bungalows are tremendous reasonably priced. Click on right here to study extra about Lotus Bungalows, and click on right here for our assessment article of Candidasa. ( Word: Gangga Divers can be situated on Gangga Island, Raja Ampat, and Gili T.)

Where To Stay in North Bali

These trying to escape the hustle and bustle of the south however nonetheless have a seaside trip ought to head to the North coast of Bali. Right here you’ll be able to get pleasure from some solar and sand with out the crowds and the chaos.

The very best locations to remain in Bali up north embody Pemuteran and Lovina. Each cities have first rate seashores and quantity of choices for lodging and eating.

It’s a protracted trek from the airport (almost four hours), nevertheless it’s value it. Up right here you are able to do some mountaineering in West Bali Nationwide Park or go diving across the unimaginable Menjangan Island.

Different enjoyable issues to do embody visiting a temple that’s filled with monkeys, seeing dolphins in the wild, and soaking in pure sizzling springs.

Where to Stay in North Bali for Diving and Snorkeling

It’s not simply the east coast that has scuba and snorkelling alternatives. Don’t miss the north coast as effectively.

Pemuteran

This sleepy little city on the north coast is unquestionably some of the laid-back locations to remain in Bali. It’s actually only a small stretch of street with a number of motels, dive outlets, and eating places.

The primary cause to remain right here is to go to the nationwide park and go snorkeling or diving round Menjangan Island. There are different dive websites close by as effectively, so you’ll be able to base your self right here for a number of days and take a look at a number of.

There are additionally three totally different Balinese temples which are value testing, particularly Pura Pulaki. It’s inhabited by a bunch of monkeys who’re stated to protect the temple.

Listed below are some locations to remain in Pemuteran:

• Tirta Sari Bungalow: I’ve been to Pemuteran twice and stayed right here each instances. Good rooms, tasty meals, pleasant employees, and a pool to sit back out in.
• Menjangan Dynasty Resort: this stunning resort is far nearer to the island than locations in city. 
• Arjuna Homestay: there’s a dive heart on-site at this standard homestay.

Where to Stay in North Bali for a Seaside Trip

A quiet getaway. With not many individuals venturing this far north, you’ll have the seashores nearly to your self.

Lovina

Final however not least on our tour of the place to remain in Bali is Lovina. This chilled-out seaside city on the North coast is principally the anti-Kuta.

The seaside isn’t superb right here, nevertheless it’s good and quiet! Not that many vacationers make all of it the way in which up right here, making it an ideal place to chill and calm down.

For many guests, the spotlight of Lovina is occurring a dolphin-watching tour. It’s very easy to rearrange these in city and there are alternatives for snorkeling and diving close by as effectively.

Listed below are some really useful locations to remain in Lovina:

Prepared for Bali?

As you’ll be able to see, you may have tons of decisions for locations to remain in Bali. For a small island, Bali positive packs a punch in relation to selection!

My greatest recommendation is to spend at the very least two weeks on the island and go to 2-Three totally different areas. Choose a seaside city in the south, spend a number of nights in the middle, and perhaps go to one of many lesser-known spots on the coast or one of many Nusa Islands.

There’s simply one thing magical about Bali that actually sucks you in. The gorgeous landscapes, vibrant tradition, and mouth-watering delicacies are only a few the reason why many confer with the island as paradise. It is a place the place you’ll be able to hike a volcano, do yoga overlooking rice terraces, and surf epic waves all in the identical day in case you’re up for it. As an added bonus, it’s additionally one of many least expensive nations to journey.

No matter you do, one journey to Bali probably gained’t be sufficient. Chances are high you’ll be planning your return earlier than you even go away. Or perhaps you’ll simply find yourself altering your flight to remain longer. This island has that impact on folks! Whenever you inevitably resolve you wish to cancel your flight dwelling and keep on the island ceaselessly, you’ll want to learn my submit on how one can keep in Bali semi-long time period.

Have you ever been to Bali? Which a part of the island do you advocate folks keep in? Go away a remark beneath!

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