Bali isn’t a one size fits all island! Every region has its own vibe. Some are buzzing with nightlife, others feel like stepping into a jungle temple dream.
After visiting Bali more times than I can count, I can tell you choosing the right area makes a huge difference. Even though this island might seem small, there is a lot to do and see in each area.
Whether you’re after surf breaks, yoga retreats, trendy cafes, clubs and bars, or peaceful beaches, there’s a perfect Bali spot waiting for you.
So if you’re still feeling unsure, I’ve broken down the best areas in Bali to help you plan your trip and find a place that actually matches your holiday style.
👉 Tip: Stay in multiple areas while you’re there (at least 2!) so you get a mix of what the island has to offer.
⏰ Short on time?
Where to Stay in Bali
($) The Bed By The Sea (Canggu)
($$) Alaya Resort (Ubud)
($$$) Potato Head Suites (Seminyak)
View more hotels here Must-Do Activities in Bali
– Tanah Lot at Sunset
– Mount Batur Sunrise Hike
– Nusa Penida Day Trip
– Tegallalang Rice Terraces stroll + coconut stop
– Traditional Balinese cooking class
Don’t wait till you land! Pre-book your Bali airport transfer
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Ubud (Cultural and Spiritual Heart)
If you dream of rice terraces, temples, art markets, and yoga in the jungle, Ubud is your place. It’s lush, peaceful, and feels like the spiritual soul of Bali.
I always find myself slowing down here. Early morning rice field walks, sunset sound baths, and little cafes hidden between art galleries. You feel like you’re in the heart of traditional Bali.
Best for: Solo travellers, couples, culture lovers, digital nomads who want a quiet vibe
• Sacred Monkey Forest (watch your bags!)
• Tegallalang Rice Terraces and famous jungle swings
• Campuhan Ridge Walk for sunrise
($) In Da Lodge – Social hostel with jungle views
($$) Alaya Resort Ubud – Close to Monkey Forest with Balinese design
($$$) Viceroy Bali – Insanely beautiful private villas
Seminyak (Luxury and Nightlife)
Seminyak is where Bali’s stylish side shines: beach clubs, epic sunsets, and late-night fun. Everything’s walkable and there’s always something happening.
I love it here for an upbeat holiday, afternoon cocktails, massages, and some of the trendiest restaurants on the island. It’s great if you want a bit of everything without needing a scooter.
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, groups of friends, party lovers
• Chill at Potato Head Beach Club or Ku De Ta
• Boutique shopping on Jalan Kayu Aya (“Eat Street”)
• Sunset cocktails right on the sand
($) Dash Hotel Seminyak – Trendy, affordable, fun
($$) Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach – Gorgeous beachfront property
($$$) The Legian Bali – Timeless, classic Seminyak luxury
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at Desa Potato Head Suites Resort.
Kuta (Budget-Friendly and Party Central)
Kuta is Bali’s OG tourist zone. Budget friendly, wild nightlife, and beginner-friendly surf lessons make it popular.
It’s chaotic and energetic, and while it’s not for everyone, it can be fun for a short stay if you’re looking for parties or trying surfing for the first time. I’ve had nights here I’ll never forget (and some I barely remember).
Best for: Budget travellers, backpackers, partygoers, first-time surfers
• Catch a beginner surf lesson at Kuta Beach
• Shop at Beachwalk Shopping Center
• Party on Poppies Lane
($) The Island Hotel Bali – Backpacker favourite
($$) The Stones Hotel – Marriott, right on the beach
($$$) Hard Rock Hotel Bali – Pool parties and family fun
Nusa Dua (Family-Friendly Luxury)
Want calm water, clean beaches, and all inclusive luxury? Nusa Dua is perfect for just relaxing and enjoying the resort life. It’s quiet, gated, and super clean.
A nice option if you’re travelling with little kids or just want a slower pace. I’d recommend it for those who want their holiday to feel like a proper break.
Best for: Families, honeymooners, older travellers
• Nusa Dua Beach for swimming
• Waterblow Nusa Dua for natural splash zones
• Traditional dance shows at Bali Nusa Dua Theatre
($) ION Bali Benoa – Budget-friendly near the beach
($$) Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua – Luxury meets French style
($$$) The St. Regis Bali Resort – Ultimate 5 star beachfront
Canggu (Surf Town & Digital Nomad Hub)
Canggu is Bali’s cool kid. Think surfboards, smoothie bowls, coworking spaces, and beach clubs with DJs at sunset. You’ll find barefoot surfers and remote workers mixing in trendy cafes.
I always find it fun, social, and full of great food options. It’s also easy to meet people here, perfect if you’re solo or staying a while.
Best for: Digital nomads, solo travellers, young couples, surfers
• Surf or watch sunsets at Echo Beach
• Café-hop (seriously, the food scene is insane)
• Party at The Lawn or Finns Beach Club
($) The Bed by the Sea Hostel – Cozy and close to the beach
($$) Eastin Ashta Resort Canggu – Family friendly with a chill vibe
($$$) COMO Uma Canggu – Beachfront suites with a wellness focus
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at Eastin Ashta Resort Hotel in Canggu.
Sanur (Laid-Back Coastal Town)
Sanur has calm beaches and a laid-back charm. It’s a favourite for returning travellers, families, and those who love a morning walk on the promenade.
I often stay here with my family when we want something peaceful, with great cafes, small local warungs, and a slower rhythm to the day. You’ll see locals doing tai chi at sunrise and expats cycling along the path.
Best for: Older travellers, families with young kids, couples, digital nomads
• Walk the Sanur Beach promenade
• Visit Sindhu Night Market for local eats
• Watch sunrise over Mt. Agung
($) Sanur House – Boutique style, great pool
($$) Andaz Bali – Beautiful new beachfront property
($$$) Maya Sanur Resort & Spa – Luxury stay right by the sand
Jimbaran (Seafood and Stunning Sunsets)
Jimbaran is all about fresh seafood feasts right on the beach and peaceful luxury resorts. It’s quieter than Seminyak and perfect for couples or those who want to chill out and watch the sun set with a cocktail in hand.
I always recommend this area for people who want luxury but not the scene. It feels romantic and grounded.
Best for: Couples, families who want peace and beach access
• Sunset seafood dinner right on the sand
• Visit Jimbaran Fish Market early morning
• Chill at Sundara Beach Club
($) Movenpick Resort Jimbaran – Family-friendly luxe resort
($$) InterContinental Bali Resort – Beachfront classic
($$$) Four Seasons Resort Jimbaran Bay – Next-level private villas
Uluwatu (Clifftop Views and Surfer Heaven)
Uluwatu is dramatic cliffs, world class waves, and epic beach clubs. The views are unbeatable, and the temples feel extra sacred. This area gives you that wow moment every time you look out over the ocean.
Great if you’re into sunsets, surfing, or just want to stay somewhere that feels totally unique and peaceful.
Best for: Couples, surfers, photographers, honeymooners
• Visit Uluwatu Temple at sunset
• Chill at Sundays Beach Club
• Watch pro surfers at Padang Padang
($) Dreamsea Bali – Boho beachfront surf camp
($$) Alila Villas Uluwatu – Architectural luxury
($$$) Bulgari Resort Bali – Luxe Italian style on the cliffs
Sidemen (Off the Beaten Path Retreat)
Sidemen is where you go to unplug. Think rice fields, mountain views, and traditional village life. It’s quiet, raw, and authentic. I love it as a total escape. It’s somewhere I go when I want to write, reflect, or just breathe.
There’s something really calming about Sidemen that makes you slow down in the best way.
Best for: Couples, slow travellers, nature lovers, wellness seekers
• Take a guided rice field trek
• Visit Besakih Temple (Bali’s Mother Temple) nearby
• Just breathe, it’s pure tranquillity
($) Cepik Villa Sidemen – Friendly, local stay
($$) Wapa di Ume Sidemen – Jungle luxury
($$$) Samanvaya Luxury Resort & Spa – Pure eco luxury
👉 Read Next: 32 Unmissable Things to Do in Bali
FAQ: Best Area to Stay in Bali
Canggu for beginner/intermediate, Uluwatu for advanced.
Yes! Calm beaches, amazing kids clubs, and huge pools.
Jimbaran, Uluwatu, or Sidemen. Think private villas, sunsets, peaceful vibes.
👉 Bamboo Hotels to Stay in Bali
($) Bambu Indah
($$) Hideout Bali
($$$) Veluvana Bali
If you want budget stays and party energy, yes. Otherwise, you might prefer somewhere calmer.
May, June, or September, perfect weather without huge crowds.
At least 7 to 10 days to explore properly without rushing.
PIN THIS PAGE FOR LATER
Add comment