Bali offers something for every type of traveler, but where to stay in Bali can make or break your experience. Whether you’re looking for beaches, nightlife, culture, or relaxation, choosing the right area is key. In this guide, I’ll break down where is the best place to stay in Bali based on your travel style.
Hannah and I spent two months exploring Bali and tried to see as much of the island as possible. We loved our time there and had a range of fantastic experiences from waterfall tours and lazy beach days to mountain hikes and boat trips out to nearby islands.
This guide to where to stay in Bali will help direct you to the right location. I have also included my top tips for getting around in Bali – as in my opinion you should try and explore as many of these places as you can! Let’s get started.
Best for First-Time Visitors: Seminyak
If you’re visiting Bali for the first time, Seminyak is a great choice. It has everything – beachfront resorts, trendy cafes, and lively nightlife. The mix of luxury and affordable stays makes it perfect for those who want a bit of everything. Plus, it’s well-connected, so day trips to other parts of the island are easy.
Being so close to our base in Kuta Beach, Hannah and I found ourselves in Seminyak on a couple of weekends, enjoying its beach clubs and fun drinking scene. It has a reputation for being a stylish and upscale destination, but Seminyak also has a laid-back charm.
Start your day at one of the many coffee shops, spend the afternoon shopping in cool independent stores or local markets, and then unwind at a beachfront bar, watching the sunset over the ocean. Seminyak is also home to some of the best beach clubs in Bali, making it a great place for relaxation.
Best for Digital Nomads: Canggu
Canggu has become Bali’s digital nomad hub, with coworking spaces, abundant strong WiFi, and an easygoing vibe. It’s packed with stylish cafes where remote workers spend their days before catching the sunset at one of the beach bars.
The surf-friendly waves and social atmosphere make it an ideal spot for those working on the go. If we weren’t based in Kuta, I could see myself setting up in Canggu for a while – there’s a great balance between productivity and play.
The nightlife here is also unique – less clubbing and more socializing at beach bars and live music venues. It’s easy to meet other travelers and remote workers, as the community vibe is strong. While the traffic can be chaotic, renting a scooter allows you to explore hidden beaches and less touristy spots.
Best for Budget Travelers: Kuta
If you’re looking for budget places to stay in Bali, Kuta is the obvious choice. It’s filled with affordable guesthouses, backpacker hostels, and plenty of cheap food options.
While Kuta is known for its party scene, it also made a great home base for us. Hannah and I rented an Airbnb in Kuta Beach for two months, using it as a place to work during the week while setting off to explore new parts of Bali every weekend. The affordability and central location made it an easy choice.
Kuta has a reputation for being chaotic, but that’s also part of its charm. It’s one of the most accessible areas in Bali, close to the airport and public transport hubs, making it a convenient option for travelers on a budget. The beach here is lively, with plenty of shack bars and surf lessons available at discount rates.
Street food stalls and night markets make it easy to eat cheaply, and you can find everything from local warungs to international fast food. If you don’t mind the crowds and a bit of noise, Kuta is a fun and affordable place to stay, especially for solo travelers and backpackers.
Best for Luxury & Relaxation: Uluwatu
For those looking to escape the crowds, Uluwatu has stunning cliffside resorts and breathtaking ocean views. It’s a favorite for couples and anyone wanting a peaceful retreat. The area is known for its world-class surf spots, hidden beaches, and incredible sunset views from places like Uluwatu Temple.
If you’re after a more secluded, high-end stay, Uluwatu is the way to go. One of the best things about Uluwatu is how untouched it still feels in certain areas. Unlike Seminyak or Canggu, where development is rapid, Uluwatu has maintained a sense of tranquility.
The beaches here, like Padang Padang and Bingin, are among the most beautiful in Bali, offering crystal-clear water and dramatic limestone cliffs. The resorts in this area focus on privacy, with infinity pools overlooking the ocean and open-air villas that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings.
Best for Culture & Nature Lovers: Ubud
If you’re wondering where to stay in Ubud, the answer depends on whether you prefer a jungle retreat or a spot closer to town. Ubud is Bali’s cultural heart, surrounded by endless rice terraces, waterfalls, and traditional temples. It’s also a hotspot for yoga, meditation, and wellness retreats.
Out of all the places we explored, Ubud was probably my favorite. There was something magical about being tucked away in the jungle, surrounded by tropical greenery, far from the beach crowds. It felt like an entirely different side of Bali.
Ubud is the perfect place to slow down and immerse yourself in Balinese culture. You can visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, watch a traditional dance performance at Ubud Palace, or take a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Balinese dishes.
The surrounding countryside offers stunning scenery, from the iconic Ceking Rice Terraces to hidden waterfalls where you can take a refreshing dip. If you’re into wellness, Ubud has countless yoga studios and holistic retreats, making it one of the best places in Bali for self-care and relaxation.
Best for an Island Escape: Nusa Lembongan
For those who want a break from the hustle of mainland Bali, Nusa Lembongan is a short boat ride away and feels like a different world. The island has pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, and almost no cars, which adds to its tranquility.
Snorkeling and diving are some of the best things to do here, but simply soaking up the quiet, laid-back atmosphere is just as rewarding. Hannah and I found it to be a real reprieve from Bali’s often chaotic streets – it felt like stepping back in time to a slower, simpler way of life.
Unlike Bali’s main tourist hubs, Nusa Lembongan has a small-town feel. The lack of traffic and urban development makes it feel like a true island escape. You can explore the island by bicycle, find hidden beaches where you’ll have the sand to yourself, or take a boat tour to see manta rays up close.
How to Get Around in Bali
Getting around Bali is easier than it seems, but public transport is limited. We booked private taxis through Booking.com for hassle-free airport transfers and day trips, which saved us time and effort. Grab was our go-to for shorter and even longer journeys – it’s incredibly cheap and reliable.
While buses exist, they’re tricky to pin down with inconsistent schedules and limited routes. If you’re comfortable on two wheels, renting a scooter is another popular option, but traffic can be chaotic, so drive carefully.
Is Bali Safe to Visit?
Yes, Bali is generally safe to visit, but like any destination, it has a few things to be mindful of. Petty theft, like bag snatching, can happen, so keep valuables secure. Scams and overcharging, especially in touristy areas, are common, so always double-check prices.
Traffic is one of the biggest hazards – road conditions and driving styles can be unpredictable. We felt safe during our entire stay, but staying aware and using common sense went a long way in ensuring a smooth trip.
Final Thoughts: Where is Best to Stay in Bali?
Deciding where to stay in Bali depends on your travel style. First-time visitors will love Seminyak, digital nomads thrive in Canggu, and budget travelers should check out Kuta. If luxury is your thing, Uluwatu is perfect, while Ubud is the best for culture lovers, and Nusa Lembongan is a peaceful paradise.
We loved it all, and I hope you get to explore as much of the island as we did. But no matter your preference, Bali has the perfect spot for you!
Heading to Bali for the first time? Be sure to read my article, Everything You Need to Know About Bali.
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