Deciding on where to stay in Bali is important for the success of your trip. Together with 11 experienced travel bloggers I created “where to stay in Bali” guide. The description of the best areas in Bali and the best hotels recommendations, which can help you to find the most suitable accommodation in Bali for any budget.
Bali is an amazing island and a destination not-to-be-missed during any trip to Indonesia. Its location allows for combining it with a trip to paradise Gili island, mystical Lombok or famous volcanoes of East Java with the unique Ijen volcano hike, and Mount Bromo sunrise tour. However, there are enough things to do in Bali to keep you occupied for a while. Where to stay in Bali in order to make the most of your trip and to experience the best of each destination?
With the help of 11 other travel bloggers, we prepared the full description of the main areas in Bali with hotel recommendations for each of them. Picking where to stay in Bali for any budget from cheap places to stay in Bali to luxury villas has never been easier.
Where to stay in Bali – Table of Content
CENTRAL BALI
SOUTH BALI
1. Where to stay in Canggu
2. Where to stay in Jimbaran Bay
3. Where to stay in Seminyak
4. Where to stay in Sanur
5. Where to stay in Kuta
6. Where to stay in Uluwatu/Padang Padang
7. Where to stay in Balian Beach
8. Where to stay in Nusa Dua
WEST BALI
1. Where to stay in Pemuteran
NORTH BALI
1. Where to stay in Lovina
SOUTHEASTERN ISLANDS
1. Where to stay in Nusa Penida
2. Where to stay in Nusa Lembongan
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WHERE TO STAY IN BALI
You can find five main regions on Bali. South and Central Bali are the most popular ones. Then, there is West Bali and North Bali, that are less visited, but not less beautiful. And the Southeastern islands, Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, which have their own charm. Each part of Bali offers unforgettable experiences and unique Bali hotels. Have a look below and choose your favourite place to stay in Bali for your next holiday.
Map of areas to stay in Bali
CENTRAL BALI
The cultural center of Bali with the mountain ranges, beautiful temples, and twin lakes. Ideal place to relax in the jungle or hike to the waterfalls.
Where to stay in Ubud, Bali
Ubud is a popular destination to stay in Bali and there is no surprise why.
Some of the best places to stay in Bali are located in Ubud. Accommodation ranging from budget to luxury, with the hotels located in the city center, in the middle of the jungle or overlooking the rice fields, will give you a wide choice when deciding on where to stay in Ubud. We spent several nights in Ubud in different hotels during our 10 days in Indonesia trip and really enjoyed our time in the area.
Ubud is known as the cultural center of Bali, surrounded by the lush rice fields and a jungle filled with monkeys. Beautiful Hindu temples are dotted around the town and the whole region, making the area very interesting. You can relax by the pool in the green forest, try some gentle yoga retreats or taste vegan treats and Indonesian food with a twist in chill cafes. It’s not hard to find cheap places to stay in Bali in Ubud, as well as it’s easy to find a luxury villa to hide in and forget about the world.
Best places to stay in Ubud, Bali:
$ Budget: Sila Urip Guest House – That’s one of the cheap places to stay in Bali and a popular choice for backpackers in Ubud. The Sila Urip Guest House has a lush garden and a relaxing terrace, which makes it a great place to make new friends, especially if you are a solo traveler in Bali.
Check best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$ Mid-range: Villa D’Bisma – Villa is located just 5 min walk from Monkey Forest and it’s overlooking the rice fields. We even had a monkey visiting us on the terrace with a swimming pool. There are private rooms with bathrooms and a good breakfast included.
Check best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$$ Luxury: Alila Ubud – Alila is definitely my favorite place to stay in Ubud. It’s a beautiful hotel located in the middle of the lush jungle with cute little bungalows, a wonderful spa and stunning views from the infinity pool. We don’t normally tend to stay in luxury hotels, but we decided to treat ourselves for my birthday. Alila hotel was reasonably priced, without having the typical posh feeling of luxury hotels, that I am trying to avoid. Our stay was very laid back and relaxing and the spa was just amazing. They even organized a private romantic dinner for us in the middle of the jungle for my birthday. Amazing memories.
Check best rates and availability: Booking.com
Where to stay in Munduk, Bali
Munduk is one of my favourite areas in Bali and while deciding on where to stay in Bali, I would definitely include Munduk on the list. Lush and green, full of forests, rolling hills, and splashing waterfalls. Many tourists just pass by and don’t stay long in the area which makes it even more appealing. You can rest on the terrace of your hotel overlooking the mountains, go for a hike in the hills or swim in one of the many waterfalls. It’s a place where you can feel a real Bali countryside.
Best places to stay in Munduk, Bali:
$ Budget: Made Oka Homestay and Warung – The Homestay is peacefully located on the hill overlooking the green valley and mountains around. Our stay there was very relaxing. The breakfast was included in the price and one of the tastiest ones that we’ve had in Bali.
Check best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$$ Luxury: Nadira Bali Resort & Villa – The luxury resort with an outdoor pool has the beautiful views all around, that you can admire from your private villa.

Read more: How to organize Mount Bromo hike yourself cheaper and with no crowds?
SOUTH BALI
The most popular part of the island with beaches and access to the sea and the southern islands.
Where to stay in Canggu, Bali
By Rhianne from Wanderfully Living
Some might say that Canggu is the cool, relaxed little brother of Seminyak. With a high population of expats, The ‘Gu has become the new ‘It’ location for digital nomads to settle. Because of that, it has undergone much development and westernization in recent years to make it into the buzzing seaside town it is today.
Cafes and restaurants are now in abundance, you won’t have to look far for a place to drink coffee and eat avocado toast in the morning, although expect prices to be slightly higher than in other areas such as Ubud.
My favourite Café was ‘Betelnut Café’ which serves out-of-this-world smoothie bowls! There are many upmarket boutique shops if you’re looking to splash some cash and plenty of beachside Bintang spots to watch the sunset such as the famous ‘Old Mans Bar’.
If your looking to ride some waves then Canggu is a perfect spot for beginner surfers as the water is usually gentle enough to learn the basics, you will find Echo Beach lined with various Surf Schools where you can arrange a lesson.
Best places to stay in Canggu, Bali:
$ Budget: Surfers House – $12.31AUD p/n
Check best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$ Mid-range: A7 Guesthouse Canggu – $49 p/n
Check best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$$ Luxury: The Lokha Umalas Villa & Spa – $169 p/n
Check best rates and availability: Booking.com

Where to stay in Jimbaran Bay, Bali
By Erin Clarkson from Sand, Sun and Messy Buns.
The beaches are the real draw in Jimbaran Bay, so pack some sunscreen and plan to spend the day with your toes in the sand!
Seafood Dinner on the Beach: If you’re looking for fresh seafood, it doesn’t get any fresher than Jimbaran! The close proximity of the seafood market means local restaurants have access to fish and shrimp fresh off the boat. Head over to Ganesha Café or Jimbaran Seafood Dinner and search through their ice buckets to select the perfect item for your main course, then watch as they grill it up while you wait.
Sunset: The sunsets in Jimbaran Bay are incredible! Many of the restaurants set up tables directly on the beach to allow for a front row seat. Grab a Bintang (a local favorite beer) and “cheers” to the best view in the bay! Another favorite spot to catch the sunset is from an infinity edge pool overlooking the ocean (most of the hotels have one).
Massage: The Ayana Resort has a spa located in an open-air thatched roof hut on an outcropping of rocks that jut out into the Indian Ocean. It’s an incredible setting for a relaxing hot shell massage. Since it’s on a private beach, you’ll feel far removed from the more touristy crowds in many other areas of Jimbaran.
Best places to Stay in Jimbaran Bay, Bali:
$ Budget: Jimbaran Bay Beach Resort & Spa is a good budget option. As long as you’re not booking last minute, you can usually find a room for around $50 for 2 people. It’s walking distance to Jimbaran Bay.
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$ Mid-range: Le Meridien Bali Jimbaran: 5-star, around $150/night
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$$ Luxury: Ayana Resort & Spa (where I stayed): 5-star, around $350/night
Check best rates and availability: Booking.com
Where to stay in Seminyak, Bali
By Amy Chung from Family Globetrotters
Seminyak is located on the West Coast of Bali and north of Legian and Kuta. As the hub of classy resorts, designer shops and upscale bars and restaurant, Seminyak is a vibrant neighborhood.
Home to one of the more popular beaches in Bali, Petitenget Beach promises picture worthy sunsets from world class beach clubs and high-end drinking establishments.
Seminyak certainly has no shortage of accommodation choices. Perhaps its most famous hotel with pure luxury and set on the beach is the W Bali – Seminyak. Located smack bang in the middle of Jl. Petitenget you are a stone’s throw away from all the action. From ocean facing rooms to their Extreme WOW Suite (I promise that’s what its called!) you’re truly spoilt for choice. And with its plethora of bars and lounges, you don’t even really need to leave the hotel!
If you’re travelling in a group, there is no better accommodation option than getting a multi-bedroom villa. There is so much more space, comes with a full household of staff to include a butler, villa manager, and chef so you can have the option to dine in if you wish.
On our recent stay, we chose Villa Annecy on Jalan Raya Seminyak Gang Keraton 7. Not only was the villa incredibly spacious and came with a huge pool, it is just off the main street. The convenience factor was an important part of our decision and the close proximity to the supermarket, shopping, and restaurants really made our stay.
If you’re backpacking and, on a budget, finding cheap places to stay in Seminyak in Bali, amidst all this luxury is more than possible. Kosta Hostel is a popular choice for backpackers and can be found on Jalan Dewi Saraswati III. Mixed and female only dorms are available whilst you can also get free Wi-Fi, use the hostel’s bikes to get around and close proximities to the beach.
Best places to stay in Seminyak, Bali:
$ Budget: Kosta Hostel on Jalan Dewi Saraswati III
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$ Mid-range: Villa Annecy on Jalan Raya Seminyak Gang Keraton 7
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$$ Luxury: W Bali – Seminyak on Jl. Petitenget
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com

Where to stay in Sanur, Bali
By Nafisa from My Own Way to Travel
Sanur is much quiet and bit less touristic comparatively to other beach towns in magical Bali Island. Just 14 km away from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
If you’re a mid-range traveler and looking for a relaxing holiday in Bali, then Sanur is the perfect destination for you. Mostly Europeans with family prefers to stay Sanur in Bali.
I found Sanur in Southeast Bali is also the best destination for solo travelers. It is safe to move around alone in the evening. Many standard accommodations are there to stay nearby the beautiful Sanur Beach.
I stayed six nights at Ari Putri Hotel in Sanur. This traditional 3-star Balinese hotel offers all modern facilities and services to their guests and very close to Sanur Beach.
If you’re looking for a cheap place to stay in Bali with standard budget accommodation, then you can check Segara Agung Hotel one of the recommended budget hotels in this area.
For luxury travelers, Puri Santrian Hotel is the perfect one.
You don’t have to go very far away to eat and shop if you stay in Sanur. You’ll find many local cafes and restaurants within walking distance nearby any hotels and resorts. There are also many local to brand boutiques in Sanur you might like to shop many stylish outfits in a reasonable price.
Moreover, don’t miss to witness the stunning sunrise and enjoy many water activities while exploring Sanur Beach during your stay in Sanur, Bali.
Best places to stay in Sanur, Bali:
$ Budget: Segara Agung Hotel
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$ Mid-range: Ari Putri Hotel
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$$ Luxury: Puri Santrian Hotel
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com
Read more: How to plan the best trip to Asia.
Where to stay in Kuta, Bali
By Patrick from German Backpacker
Kuta in Bali is the main touristic area of the island since it’s conveniently located very close to the airport.
While Kuta was a backpacker heaven and a small fishing village 30 years ago, be prepared that Kuta nowadays isn’t anything like this. Most people get out without spending a day there and the area has a quite bad reputation.
The beach is nice for surfing and has a great sunset, however, it’s also rather dirty and overcrowded. If you’re looking for nicer beaches, mover further up the coast.
However, if you’re on a party holiday, Kuta is the place to go. There are plenty of bars and clubs (one of the most famous ones is Skygarden) and you can have a great night out. Just be careful, since there’s a high risk of pickpocketing, especially if you’re wasted.
I personally would rather focus my visit to Bali on other parts of the islands. However, Kuta is a good base right after and before your flight.
I stayed at the Watermark hotel, which is a little bit south of Kuta and very close to the airport. This hotel is also the perfect location to explore other parts of Bali, such as the Uluwatu area in the south. You’ll also find plenty of backpacker hostels directly in Kuta, which are fun if you’re up for some partying. Just be prepared that you probably won’t get a relaxing beach holiday in Kuta!
Best places to stay in Kuta, Bali:
$ Budget: The H-Hostel has a perfect location close to the beach as well as to the main center of Kuta and is a great budget accommodation if you are looking for cheap places to stay in Bali.
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$ Mid-range: Febri’s Hotel & Spa is very close to the airport and therefore perfect if you just arrived in Bali or if you’re leaving the next day.
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com
$$$ Luxury: The Watermark Hotel & Spa is a beautiful hotel just south of the airport. This hotel isn’t directly located in Kuta, but perfect for a day trip to the southern Uluwatu peninsula.
Check the best rates and availability: Booking.com

Where to stay in Uluwatu/Padang Padang, Bali
By Charlotte from Sunshine Seeker
Uluwatu and Padang Padang first became popular among surfers in the 70s and 80s because of the uncrowded world class waves. Today the laid-back surfer vibe is still very much alive, but the area has so much more to offer than that. Spend your day lounging at fancy beach clubs, explore deserted beaches, have a drink in one of the cliff bars, bust some moves at the famous Single Fin Sunday party or visit the monkeys at Pura Luhur Uluwatu, one of the most important temples in Bali.
Traffic is still not too crazy, so you can easily drive around on a motorbike by yourself. In fact, that’s one of my favorite things to do, just drive and explore. On a motorbike, you can reach at least 7 stunning white sand beaches and just as many surf spots within just a 30-minute drive. So as you can see, surfers, beach lovers and jet-setters alike are literally spoilt for choice down here.
In Uluwatu and Padang Padang, you’ll find accommodation options suitable for all budgets, everything from homestays on the beach to hyper-modern cliff top villas with insane views. One of my favorite hotels in the area is the stunning PinkCoco Hotel located close to Padang Padang Beach. For a more affordable option check out Naturela Hotel a little further up the road. Or if you want to treat yourself you can’t go wrong with the luxurious Alila Villas Uluwatu.
Best places to stay in Uluwatu, Bali:
$ Budget: Naturela Hotel
$$ Mid-range: PinkCoco Hotel
$$$ Luxury: Alila Villas Uluwatu

Where to stay in Balian Beach, Bali
By Markus from The Roaming Fork
Balian is a small, tucked away, beach town, located a 90-minute drive from Kuta. The distance from the busier parts of Bali, and the no through road, ensure a quiet and relaxing holiday destination.
The beach at Balian is well-known as a great surfing spot, with easy long left-breaking waves attracting surfers of all levels, with a few small places renting boards and providing lessons to those beginning their surfing journey.
However, there is no need to be a surfer to get the most out of a visit to Balian. Chilled out tourists can practice yoga, enjoy a healthy meal at the slow-paced restaurants and cafes, or relax by receiving a massage from one of the local therapists.
The volcanic black sand beach seems to go on forever, and is a great for long walks, watching fisherman cast their nets, and taking in an impressive sunset.
The surrounding areas can be easily explored by hiring a motorbike. A few of the highlights include seeing the terraced rice paddies, lush palm groves, ancient temples, and the prolific cacao plants, that are harvested by the locals and used by the local chocolate making factory to turn out some tasty treats.
I found Balian a great place to wander around with the camera, and so relaxing that I managed to finish that book I had been meaning to.
Best places to stay in Balian Beach, Bali:
There are many private villas that are very expensive but the following properties are the more accessible accommodation options if you are looking for cheaper places to stay in Bali:
$ Budget: Natural 1 Bedroom Lodge – $22pn
$$ Mid-range: Gubug Balian Beach Bungalow – $30pn
$$$ Luxury: Gajah Mina Beach Resort – $70pn
Where to stay in Nusa Dua, Bali
By Sarah from Our 21st Century Odyssey
Located in southeastern Bali, Nusa Dua is known for its idyllic beaches and swanky resorts. Soft white sandy shores extend the length of the peninsula, and the warm ocean waters are perfectly inviting. There are a handful of restaurants and shops around, but mostly it’s the kind of place where you stay on the beach and unwind. With limited nightlife, it’s a relaxing and quiet area to stay. Since it is very spread out, Nusa Dua not great for walking around, further encouraging you to just stay put at your resort.
Nusa Dua is a popular wedding and honeymoon destination, thanks to the many luxury resorts dotted along the beach. Given that most of the accommodations are high-end, expect to spend a little bit more when shopping or dining in this area.
Nusa Dua is only about a half hour drive from the Denpasar Airport. However, if you’re looking for someplace centrally located on Bali to easily access all of the main attractions from one base, Nusa Dua is not a good option. Instead, Nusa Dua is where you should go to unwind and stay in one place for a few days, especially if you are traveling as part of a couple and want a romantic getaway.
Best places to stay in Nusa Dua, Bali:
$ Budget:
This well-rated budget hotel is a 10-minute drive from the beach in Nusa Dua. The hotel has a swimming pool and restaurant on site.
Price: from $40 USD/night
$$ Mid-range:
Novotel Bali Nusa Dua Hotel & Residences
This top-rated hotel features rooms with kitchenettes, a large swimming pool, and a private beach. The on-site fitness center offers yoga classes. The hotel is walking distance to the Bali Collection shopping center.
Price: From $130 USD/night
$$$ Luxury:
We redeemed Hilton Honors points to stay at this luxury resort. There are several on-site restaurants and bars offering breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, cocktail hour and dinner. Additionally, there are multiple pool options, including an adult-only pool by the spa. Guests have access to the indoor thermal pools and saunas, and the spa offers a myriad of massage options, including traditional Balinese treatments.
Price: from $400 USD/night
Read more: Tips for packing light + packing list for Asia
WEST BALI
Great access to East Java and Ijen volcano hike or a hike to Bromo, as well as beautiful, relaxed Pemuteran and West Bali National Park.
Where to stay in Pemuteran
Pemuteran is a small seaside town located in the north coast of Bali. It’s a peaceful town with a good range of hotels located very close to the beach. Beach is made of the black volcanic sand but paired with the stunning sunrises and the volcanoes on the horizon give the best views.
The black beaches of Pemuteran and the views across to Java are truly spectacular. You can snorkel around and explore the reef as well as underwater reef project with sculptures under the water. I can highly recommend to visit Turtle Hatchery and see the turtles that were rescued from the fishermen. You can even adopt one of the smaller ones. The nearby Pura Pabean temple is also worth a visit. Located on the hill by the sea has a beautiful backdrop of the water and volcanoes in Java. Watch out for the wild monkeys that hang around the area!
Pemuteran is also a good stop before travelling further on into Java if you are planning to climb Kawah Ijen in East Java or visit active Bromo volcano.
Best places to stay in Pemuteran, Bali:
$ Budget: Angga Guest House – The guest house is located 5 min walking from the beach, 10 min walk from the temple. It has nice and clean rooms from $10 pn.

NORTH BALI
Quieter than the south, north Bali allows you to enjoy black beaches and calmer waves.
Where to stay in Lovina
By Shruti from Siddharth and Shruti
Unlike the busy beaches of South Bali, Lovina, in the north, is made up of smaller and less frequented beaches. The waves are much calmer and the beach area spans over two districts of Buleleng. While South Bali is what most people opt for, we knew we wanted to experience both. And we were very glad that we did take that extra effort to travel to the beautiful north.
It truly felt like a second honeymoon to stay in the romantic Villa Asmara. The luxury 5 bedroom beach villa was absolutely a dream, with an infinity pool, a tub on the balcony and a four-poster bed. It also had a pool table, a flat screen tv, board games and a strong wifi network.
If you are on a budget and are looking for more affordable options, you can check out The Nirwana Water Garden resort. Along with clean, minimal rooms, they also have a lovely outdoor pool cluster for both adults and children and is 4 minutes walk from the beach.
Don’t want a budget hotel or a luxury villa? We recommend Padmasari Resort Lovina. Even though you will not get the privacy of your own villa, you will still enjoy an infinity pool and stylish rooms.
Whether you are on a budget or on a luxury holiday, a sunset on Lovina beach is a must. Although you may think that there’s nothing to do in this quiet paradise, you are wrong. You can soak in the Banjar hot springs or visit the cascading Git-Git or Sekumpul waterfall. Since the water is calmer than in the south, you can also go diving and snorkeling in Lovina. Menjangan Island is only an hour and a half from Lovina if you want to explore further. For the culturally inclined, there is a Buddhist temple called Brahmavihara Arama where you can find some inner peace and bask in the beauty of the terraces and gardens.
Best places to stay in Lovina, Bali:
$ Budget: The Nirwana Water Garden

SOUTHEASTERN ISLANDS
Islands located in the south-east of Bali are great for diving and snorkeling opportunities and peaceful relax on the beach.
Where to stay in Nusa Penida
By Ruben from Gamin Traveler
Best places to stay in Nusa Penida, Bali:
$ Budget: Kira Homestay – $15 USD pn
$$ Mid-range: Slumbung Bungalow – $50 USD pn
$$$ Luxury: Semabu Hills – $100 USD pn
Where to stay in Nusa Lembongan
Best places to stay in Nusa Lembongan, Bali:
$ Budget: Kubu Sunset Guest House

I hope we helped you to make a better decision on where to stay in Bali on your next trip to Indonesia! Which area is your favourite one to stay in Bali? Let me know in the comments!
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I absolutely love this Bali post. In my opinion, Ubud and Nusa Pendia are two of the best places to stay in Bali.