Where to Stay in Bali: Best Areas and Hotels Guide

Deciding to travel to the Island of the Gods is an exciting adventure, but choosing the perfect place to stay can be quite overwhelming. Where should you look for the ideal accommodation? What are the best areas to stay in Bali? Should you stick to one location or change places during your trip?

Take a deep breath, because you are in the right place to clear up all your doubts! In this guide, we will explore the best areas to find accommodation in Bali, tailored to your preferences and length of stay. We'll also share some interesting options for lodging, whether you're looking for luxurious villas or budget-friendly hostels. We are here to ensure you have a memorable experience!

Finding the ideal area to stay is fundamental for maximizing your enjoyment during a trip to Bali. However, what is considered "ideal" varies from traveler to traveler, which is particularly evident on this vibrant island. In this article, we will discuss various regions of Bali that are interesting for establishing a base. You can then decide which resonates with you the most.

In recent years, Bali has witnessed a remarkable surge in tourism, becoming one of the most sought-after hubs for digital nomads around the globe. This growth has brought both positive and negative consequences, affecting the urban landscape and lifestyle in certain parts of the island.

What does this mean for visitors? Prices have skyrocketed, the atmosphere has become more tourist-centric, and there's a stark contrast between local traditions and the influx of Western influences. Yet, there are still areas where you can escape mass tourism and immerse yourself in authentic Balinese culture. Even a few years ago, we felt that Bali was struggling with identity issues.

Ubud: The Best Place to Stay in Bali

There are countless reasons why Ubud is considered the best location to find accommodation in Bali. For starters, its central location makes it an excellent base for daily excursions to explore the rest of the island.

Surrounded by lush greenery and terraced rice fields, this charming village offers a tranquil (yet stimulating) retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the southern coastal areas. Moreover, Ubud is the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali, allowing visitors to dive deep into the island's rich heritage. It boasts fascinating art galleries, sacred temples, and a vibrant culinary scene.

While Ubud is undoubtedly popular with tourists, the atmosphere here is often more relaxed than in other areas. Importantly, it offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to cozy homestays, often with the best value for money on the island.

Recommended hotels in Ubud:

• Ayu Duwur Beji (suite)
• Anumana Village Ubud (suite)
• Galang Hari Villa (villa)
• Puri Sundaram Villa (villa)

Canggu: The Digital Nomad Explosion

A few years ago, few travelers ventured to Canggu, a region that seemed to lack charm. However, today it is arguably the trendiest area on the island, largely thanks to digital nomads who have fallen in love with its laid-back vibe and surf culture.

While we prefer Ubud for a short trip, we recognize that Canggu is a fantastic option for an extended stay. With beaches perfect for surfing, lush rice paddies, hipster restaurants, coworking spaces, and bohemian cafés, Canggu has become a hub for international vibes.

Moreover, Canggu's location allows easy access to some of Bali's most iconic attractions, such as the sacred Tanah Lot Temple and the bustling streets of Seminyak.

Recommended hotels in Canggu:

• The Spare Room
• Canggu Wooden Green Paradise
• BoBos Villa

Nusa Dua: Bali's Most Exclusive Area

Known for its tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere, Nusa Dua is the perfect choice for those seeking a premium retreat. This luxurious enclave on Bali's southern coast is a favorite for honeymooners.

With stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Nusa Dua hosts some of the island's most opulent resorts, complete with top-notch spas and golf courses.

Its location on the Bukit Peninsula offers interesting excursions, such as visiting the Uluwatu Temple and the nearby Nusa Penida island, as well as access to beautiful beaches. However, it is not recommended as a sole base for exploring Bali; rather, it’s ideal for a pampering visit after exploring the rest of the island.

Recommended hotels in Nusa Dua:

• Green D’Mel Luxury Homestay
• Kubu Dimel Homestay
• Courtyard by Marriott Bali Nusa Dua Resort

Uluwatu: A Perfect Alternative for Accommodation in Bali

If your trip to Bali means surfing, Uluwatu will be one of the best areas for accommodation. Known for its famous surf beaches, stunning sunsets, and relaxed atmosphere, Uluwatu offers various lodging options, from private villas to budget guesthouses.

Whether you’re looking to surf some of the world’s best waves, enjoy delicious meals by the beach, or simply relax in an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, Uluwatu has something for everyone.

Additionally, Uluwatu provides access to intriguing attractions in Bali, such as the Uluwatu Temple and the breathtaking Padang Padang and Dreamland beaches. However, its location is not the most strategic for exploring the entire island, making it ideal for combining with another base.

Recommended hotels in Uluwatu:

• The Tempekan Nyang-Nyang
• Nyang – Nyang Bungalow Uluwatu
• Kelana Uluwatu

Candidasa: An Original Place to Stay in Bali

During our last trip to Bali, we spent a few days in Candidasa and thoroughly enjoyed it. Located on the east coast, this area offers a more local atmosphere and lush nature, with coral reef beaches and proximity to incredible temples like Lempuyang and Tirta Gangga.

If you are seeking a peaceful area away from mass tourism, yet with quality accommodations near the beach, Candidasa could be a fantastic choice. The lodging options range from resorts and boutique hotels to guest houses perfect for backpackers.

Recommended hotels in Candidasa:

• Lotus Bungalows
• Hotel Genggong
• Nirwana Beach & Resort

Other Recommended Areas (and Those to Avoid) for Accommodation in Bali

If your travel plans involve hopping around Bali, there are several other areas that may pique your interest:

• Munduk (northern area): Ideal for nature lovers, surrounded by waterfalls, lakes, and the beautiful Ulun Danu Bratan Temple.
• Lovina (northern area): While it may not be the most picturesque spot in Bali, we enjoyed our time here. Known for its black sand beaches, Lovina is perfect for dolphin watching at dawn and escaping the hustle of more popular destinations.
• Amed (eastern area): A hidden gem, tranquil, with lush landscapes, intriguing temples like Tirta Gangga, and great snorkeling and diving spots.
• Seminyak (southern area): Not our personal favorite, but if you seek nightlife, party vibes, and shopping, Seminyak is where you’ll find them, along with quality accommodations at interesting prices.
• Kuta (southern area): One of the few places we did not enjoy. We wouldn't recommend staying here unless you are looking for wild parties and sharing the streets with drunken tourists (sorry for generalizing, but it’s true!). That said, we did witness some of the most beautiful sunsets here.

Should You Stay in One Place or Change Locations?

As a large island, we often receive inquiries about whether to base in one place or to switch accommodations daily. There is no right answer, but our recommendation for a complete one-week itinerary in Bali is to establish a primary base in Ubud (4 days) and spend the remaining days in a beach area (Seminyak or the Bukit Peninsula for sightseeing, or Candidasa for relaxation).

However, it ultimately depends on the type of experience you envision. For instance, during one of our trips, we did a motorcycle tour of Bali where we changed accommodations every day, so it all depends on your itinerary.

If you have more suggestions for ideal places and areas to stay in Bali, we would love to hear them! And if you have any questions, we're here to help!

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