Bali is often called the “Island of the Gods,” and after more than 20 years of travelling here, we can confidently say it’s one of the most magical destinations in the world. Our Bali travel guide brings together all of our insider tips and knowledge to help you plan the perfect trip. Beyond its postcard-perfect beaches, Bali is bursting with rich traditions, ancient temples, lush rice fields, and a vibrant local culture that’s impossible not to fall in love with.
What makes Bali so special is its diversity, every area has its own unique charm. From the surf breaks of Uluwatu, to the lush mountains of Ubud, to the laid-back fishing villages on the East Coast, there’s a Bali experience for every type of traveller. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, looking for luxury, planning a family trip, or seeking secluded escapes, our guide will help you discover the best areas of Bali to stay.
With decades of experience visiting Bali (we’ve been here 30+ times!), we’ve explored every corner of the island and created detailed guides to help you decide where to stay and what to do. For more in-depth inspiration, you might like our dedicated posts on Sidemen Bali, Best Accommodation in Uluwatu, Canggu Food Guide, and our 10 Day Bali Itinerary.
In this Bali travel guide, we’ll cover everything from the areas of Bali worth staying in, to family-friendly options, romantic getaways, and island escapes beyond the mainland. Let’s dive in.
Uluwatu and Sidemen. My two favourite places in Bali!
Best Areas in Bali Overview
Whether or not you’ll love your time in Bali depends hugely on where you decide to base yourself. Each region offers a completely different experience, and not every area will suit every traveller.
I’ve lost count of the number of people who’ve told me they didn’t enjoy Bali, only to find out they stayed in one spot like Kuta for their entire trip. Bali is diverse – from tranquil villages to buzzing surf towns – and the secret is choosing the right area for your style of travel.
Here’s a quick overview of the best areas in Bali to stay, with more detailed breakdowns below. Ive also ranked them imo because there’s alot to of places and it can get overwhelming.
Most Popular places in Bali Ranked
- Uluwatu – Best for clifftop villas, surf breaks, and sunset beach clubs
- Nusa Lembongan – Best for island vibes, snorkelling, and crystal-clear water
- Ubud – Best for culture, yoga, wellness retreats, and rice terrace views
- Sanur – Best for calm beaches, families, and relaxed resorts
- Nusa Dua – Best for five-star beachfront resorts and family-friendly stays
- Seminyak – Best for boutique resorts, luxury villas, beach clubs, shopping, and nightlife
- Canggu – Best for trendy cafés, villas, surf, nightlife, and markets
- Gili Islands – Best for island-hopping, diving, and car-free escapes
- Jimbaran – Best for seafood on the beach and kid-friendly waters
- Kuta & Legian – Best for backpackers, budget stays, and a lively beach atmosphere
Hidden Gems in Bali
- Sidemen – Best for jungle retreats, rice terraces, and a slower pace
- Amed – Best for diving, snorkelling, and a laid-back East Coast vibe
- Seseh – Best for peaceful escapes, ocean sunsets, and rice fields near Canggu
- Padang Bai – Best for local charm, hidden beaches, and access to the Gilis and Lombok
- Candidasa – Best for quiet coastal charm, snorkelling trips and a slower, more local east Bali experience
- Lovina – Best for dolphin watching, black-sand beaches and laid-back north Bali vibes
- Keramas – Best for surf lovers, peaceful black-sand beachfront stays and escaping the crowds
- Munduk – Best for cool mountain air, waterfalls and scenic jungle highlands
Best Areas in Bali - Where to stay in Bali
In our Bali travel guide, we want to share a little bit about each location in Bali to make your decision on where to stay a little easier. Bali measures around 5,600km, so not too overwhelming in size, but with numerous hotspots, it’s hard to choose the best areas in Bali to stay. During our recent 3 week trip, we spent 4 nights in each location. If you prefer not to move around so much stay longer in the beach locations for a real holiday.
Uluwatu & The Bukit
Uluwatu isn’t just one of the best areas of Bali for us, it’s a place woven deeply into our family story. We stay here every year, and it holds such a special place in our hearts. We got married at Uluwatu Surf Villas in 2023, then returned again the following year for my sister’s wedding. Uluwatu has been the backdrop to some of our most meaningful Bali memories.
Perched along dramatic limestone cliffs with turquoise water below, Uluwatu is where Bali truly shows off. The pace here feels slower and more spacious than Canggu, with stunning beaches scattered across the Bukit Peninsula and plenty of room to breathe — especially when travelling to bali with kids.
We’ve watched this area evolve over the years, from when Bingin was just a handful of eco villas, to now offering everything from luxury resorts to boutique stays and family-friendly villas.
We’ve personally stayed at places like Green Escape Eco Resort, Cari Surf Villas, Castaways, The Elementum, Dreamsea and Los Cabos Villa — which gives us a pretty good feel for what it’s really like to base yourself here.
What we love most about Uluwatu is the balance. You can spend your mornings beach hopping between Bingin, Padang Padang and Thomas Beach (we discovered Thomas Beach on a rare kid-free date day last year and instantly fell in love, it’s now one of our favourite and easily one of the best beaches in Uluwatu). Afternoons might involve long lunches or café hopping – Cashew Tree in Bingin has been a staple for us for years and evenings are almost always reserved for sunset drinks overlooking the ocean(Ulu Cliff and Single Fin are our favs).
Uluwatu also delivers when it comes to food and celebrations. We’ve shared many special moments here, from our pre-wedding party at Savaya Bali to my sister’s at El Kabron Bali (which are two of the best beach clubs in uluwatu), and even a dreamy anniversary dinner at CIRE at Alila Villas Uluwatu. If you’re planning your stay, we’ve also put together dedicated guides to our favourite Uluwatu restaurants, and our favourite Uluwatu cafés, to help you map it all out.
Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends, or as a family (we also love nearby Pangolin and Family Nest for kid-friendly stays), Uluwatu offers raw coastal beauty mixed with thoughtful accommodation, incredible food, and soul-soothing sunsets. If you’re deciding where to stay in Bali, Uluwatu is one of those places we’ll always recommend, not just because it’s beautiful, but because it’s a place that keeps calling us back, year after year making it our favourite place on the island!
Best For:
Couples and romantic escapes
Surfers and beach lovers
Families wanting space and quieter surroundings
Sunset seekers and slow travel
Wanting a full guide on Uluwatu?
What we personally love about Uluwatu:
Stunning clifftop views and beaches Great surf spots More peaceful than Canggu Beautiful resorts and villas Amazing sunsets
And things we don't rate:
✖ You’ll need transport – things are spread out. We use gojek or a private driver
✖ Beaches are harder to access – stairs, long walk down etc
✖ Limited walkability depending on location
Best Things to Do in Uluwatu
Watch sunset at Uluwatu Temple
Beach hop between Bingin, Padang Padang & Thomas Beach
Spend the afternoon at the best Uluwatu beach clubs our favs are Sundays, Ulu Cliffhouse and El Kabron
Surf or watch the waves from cliff viewpoints
Explore hidden beaches like Nunggalan and Green Bowl
Where to Stay in Uluwatu
Uluwatu Surf Villas
Luxury ~ $500–900 USD/night
Perfect for couples and families wanting resort-style comfort with epic ocean views.
The Elementum
Mid-range boutique ~ $200–350 USD/night
A stylish, intimate stay near Bingin — great for couples.
Los Cabos Villa
Mid-range villa ~ $300+ USD/night
Ideal for families or longer stays, close to Padang Padang and Thomas Beach.
Ubud
Best For:
Ubud has always been one of those places we return to again and again. After countless visits over the years, it still holds such a special place in our Bali journeys.
Often called Bali’s cultural and spiritual heart, Ubud feels completely different from the coast — think jungle valleys, rice paddies, rivers, temples, and a slower rhythm of life. If you’re deciding where to stay in Bali and want something deeper than beach days and cocktails, Ubud is one of the best areas of Bali to experience its soul.
These days, we prefer staying just outside the busy town centre in areas like Penestanan, Sayan, or Tegallalang. You still have easy access to Ubud’s cafes and markets, but you wake up to birdsong instead of traffic.
One thing we never skip is the Campuhan Ridge Walk — just make sure you go early in the morning before it gets hot and crowded. We also love doing cooking classes when we’re in Ubud (we did ours with Casa Luna and learned to make Indonesian staples like sambal, tempe and fish curry), and wandering through the Ubud markets — although fair warning, we usually do this without kids as it can be pretty overstimulating (honestly, it’s overstimulating for me too 
).
Ubud is also a great base for chasing waterfalls and visiting rice terraces, but we always recommend seeking out smaller, hidden gems rather than the big tourist hotspots if you can.
For budget-friendly Ubud hotels, we loved Suarti Boutique Village just out of town, and if you’re craving cheap, local eats, Warung Biah Biah is a must. Make sure you visit some of our favourite Ubud Cafes including This is Bali, Suka Espresso and Huma.
Ubud is where you slow down — yoga mornings, jungle-view breakfasts, cultural experiences, and quiet moments between adventures — and it’s one of those places that shows you a completely different side of Bali every time you visit.
- Culture lovers
- Wellness travellers
- Foodies
- Nature seekers
Wanting a full guide on Ubud?
What we personally love about Ubud:
✔ Stunning scenery
✔ Incredible food scene
✔ Rich culture
✔ Easy access to waterfalls and rice terraces
And things we don't rate:
✖ Traffic in the town centre
✖ Becoming very touristy ( we like to stay outside of town to avoid this)
✖ Certain attractions can feel crowded
Best Things to Do in Ubud
Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest
Explore Tegallalang Rice Terrace
Yoga or wellness retreat
Chase waterfalls
Take a cooking class
Where to Stay in Ubud
Padma Ubud
Luxury $500+ USD/night
Luxury riverside family resort.
Komaneka at Bisma
Mid-range boutique $250–400 USD/night
Jungle views close to town.
Suarti Boutique Village
Mid-range villa $120–180 USD/night
Affordable and charming. You can see our experience at Suarti Boutique Village in our review.
Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan feels like Bali 20 years ago. Just 30 minutes by fast boat, this small island offers clear turquoise water, fewer scooters and a slower rhythm.
We love staying at least 2–3 nights here. It’s the perfect reset in the middle of a Bali itinerary.
Nusa Lembongan holds a really special place in our hearts – it’s where we spent part of our honeymoon… with our toddler in tow 🤍 And honestly? It was the perfect mix of romance and family travel. We stayed at Batu Karang Lembongan Resort & Spa, which ended up being an absolute dream base. Spacious rooms, beautiful pools, incredible breakfasts, and staff who were genuinely wonderful with Kylo, it made travelling with a little one feel easy and relaxed.
What we love most about Nusa Lembongan is how different it feels from mainland Bali. There are fewer scooters, quieter streets, and a much slower pace of life. Our days were spent beach hopping, swimming in crystal-clear water, taking afternoon naps (for everyone 😅), and enjoying sunset dinners overlooking the ocean. It’s one of those places where you naturally slow down – no packed schedules, just simple island living.
Some of our favourite beaches on the island include Dream Beach for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise water, Mushroom Bay for calm swimming (great with kids), and Jungut Batu Beach, which became our go-to for relaxed mornings and beachfront lunches.
Best For:
- Couples
- Snorkelling
- Relaxed island life
- Short island escape
Wanting a full guide on Nusa Lembongan
What we personally love about Nusa Lembongan:
✔ Beautiful beaches
✔ Clear water
✔ Slower pace
✔ Easy snorkelling trips
And things we don't rate:
✖ Limited medical facilities
✖ Smaller dining scene
✖ Boat transfer required
Best Things to Do on Nusa Lembongan
Snorkel with manta rays
Visit Dream Beach
Explore Devil’s Tear
Relax at Jungut Batu
Where to Stay in Nusa Lembongan
The Tamarind Resort
💰 $350+ USD/night
Batu Karang
💰 $250–350 USD/night
D’Nusa Beach Club
💰 $150–200 USD/night
Canggu & Pererenan
Trendy, energetic, and constantly evolving, Canggu has long been one of Bali’s most popular places to stay and it’s somewhere we’ve shared a lot of memories over the years. We first started visiting when it was literally just one main street leading down to Echo Beach almost 20 years ago. Since then, we’ve watched it grow rapidly, with new cafés, resorts, boutiques and co-working spaces popping up every six months. For a long time, we absolutely loved it.
Canggu is where we learned to surf, completed a retreat, and spent countless mornings café hopping before heading to the beach. We still adore the food scene, the creative energy, beach clubs, and places like MaiMain Playground when travelling with kids. There’s no denying Canggu does modern Bali incredibly well, from world-class cafés and yoga studios to lively sunsets and a buzzing social scene.
That said, over the past couple of years our relationship with Canggu has definitely shifted. It’s become increasingly crowded, traffic can be intense (especially challenging when you’re sitting in it with kids), and the influx of influencers and digital nomads has changed the overall vibe. While we still love visiting for day trips — brunch at our favourite Canggu cafes, beach clubs, or playground time, it’s no longer somewhere we choose to stay for extended periods. These days, we prefer basing ourselves in quieter nearby areas like Seseh, while still popping into Canggu to enjoy everything it does so well.
Canggu remains a must-experience destination if you haven’t been before – vibrant, creative, and full of great food, but for us, it’s now somewhere we dip in but don’t stay here.
Best For:
- Digital nomads and remote workers
- Surf culture and beach vibes
- Cafés, brunches & casual dining
- Couples and young travellers
- Trendy boutique shops and wellness spaces
Wanting a full guide on Canggu?
What we personally love about Canggu:
✔ Wide range of cafés, restaurants, and beach clubs
✔ Excellent surf spots nearby
✔ Great mix of budget to high-end stays
✔ Strong digital nomad community and coworking spaces
✔ Close to beaches and cafes
And things we don't rate:
✖ Busy roads and lots of traffic
✖ Can feel noisy and crowded during peak season
✖ Not as traditional or “quiet Bali”
✖ Some accommodation can be pricey if close to the beach
Best Things to Do in Canggu
Catch a wave or watch surfers at Echo Beach
Brunch or work at iconic cafés like Crate Café and Café Organic
Sunset drinks at The Lawn or Finns Beach Club
Explore boutique shops and markets on Batu Bolong
Yoga or Pilates at one of Canggu’s wellness studios
Chill beachside with a coconut at Berawa Beach
Where to Stay in Canggu
1. The Chillhouse
Budget/Mid-Range ~ $120–$180 USD per night
A stylish, modern guesthouse with a lovely pool and laid-back surf vibes — perfect for travellers who want comfort without breaking the bank. Great for couples and digital nomads alike.
2. Desa Potato Head Suites & Studios
Mid-High Range ~ $250–$450 USD per night
Upscale, beautifully designed rooms walking distance to Potato Head Beach Club. Ideal for couples or anyone wanting a more resort-like feel in central Canggu.
3. COMO Uma Canggu
High End ~ $600+ USD per night
Luxury beachfront property with spa, family-friendly facilities, and exceptional service. A perfect choice for a special stay, honeymooners, or travellers wanting top-tier comfort.
Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is Bali’s polished resort enclave. If you’re looking for a classic tropical holiday — manicured gardens, white-sand beaches, big pools and kids clubs — this is it.
We have stayed at Merusaka Resort twice and loved it.
It feels very different from Uluwatu or Ubud. It’s contained, safe and organised, which can be a huge positive for families or travellers who don’t want to think too much about logistics.
We usually recommend Nusa Dua to families wanting a resort-style experience with calm waters and minimal traffic stress.
Best For:
Families
Luxury resort stays
Calm swimming beaches
Relaxation-focused trips
What we personally love about Nusa Dua:
✔ Clean, swimmable beaches
✔ High-end resorts
✔ Secure and quiet
✔ Great kids facilities
And things we don't rate:
✖ Less authentic/local feel
✖ Limited café culture
✖ Higher prices
Best Things to Do in Nusa Dua
Relax at Geger Beach
Resort pool days
Watersports (jet skiing, parasailing)
Spa treatments
Sunset beachfront dining – We love Homaya the Indonesian Restuaant at Merusaka Resort
Where to Stay in Nusa Dua
The St. Regis Bali Resort
$700+ USD/night
Ultra-luxury beachfront experience.
Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua
$350–500 USD/night
Family-friendly with great facilities.
Grand Whiz Hotel
$120–180 USD/night
Budget-friendly option inside the Nusa Dua complex.
Seminyak
Seminyak is stylish, central and full of great restaurants. It’s less chaotic than Kuta but more established than Canggu. Think beach clubs, boutiques and sunset cocktails.
We love Seminyak for shorter stays or if we want everything within walking distance — especially good for couples.
Best For:
Food lovers
Boutique shopping
Beach club vibes
Couples
- Family Holidays
Wanting a full guide on Seminyak?
What we personally love about Seminyak:
✔ Great restaurants
✔ Walkable areas
✔ Stylish accommodation
And things we don't rate:
✖ Traffic
✖ Busier beaches
✖ Not as nice beaches like Uluwatu
Best Things to Do in Seminyak
Sunset at Seminyak Beach
Shop along Eat Street
Spa day at Body Works or Spring Spa
Beach club afternoons
Where to Stay in Seminyak
1. The Chillhouse
Budget/Mid-Range ~ $120–$180 USD per night
A stylish, modern guesthouse with a lovely pool and laid-back surf vibes — perfect for travellers who want comfort without breaking the bank. Great for couples and digital nomads alike.
2. Desa Potato Head Suites & Studios
Mid-High Range ~ $250–$450 USD per night
Upscale, beautifully designed rooms walking distance to Potato Head Beach Club. Ideal for couples or anyone wanting a more resort-like feel in central Canggu.
3. COMO Uma Canggu
High End ~ $600+ USD per night
Luxury beachfront property with spa, family-friendly facilities, and exceptional service. A perfect choice for a special stay, honeymooners, or travellers wanting top-tier comfort.
Sidemen
Sidemen completely surprised us — in the best way. We visited for the first time last year during our three-week annual Bali trip, and honestly, we fell in love almost immediately. It’s now one of those places we tell everyone about, because it feels like discovering Bali before the crowds. If you’re wondering what Ubud was like 20 years ago, Sidemen is probably the closest thing left.
Set among rolling rice paddies with Mount Agung towering in the distance, Sidemen is peaceful, untouched, and deeply beautiful. There’s a softness to life here — mornings start slowly, roosters crow in the distance, mist rolls over the fields, and everything feels grounded. We stayed at Wapa di Ume Sidemen and couldn’t recommend it more, especially for families. The staff were incredible with the kids, and they even had a playground with a trampoline, which Kylo absolutely loved. It was one of those rare places where both parents and kids genuinely felt cared for.
There’s also so much more to do here than people realise. We loved starting our mornings with gentle rice paddy walks with the kids, wandering past farmers tending their fields and tiny village temples tucked between the palms. You can visit waterfalls, explore nearby villages, take part in cooking classes, or simply sit back with a coffee and soak in the views. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down — and once you do, you won’t want to leave.
For us, Sidemen now sits right at the top of our Bali must-visit list. It offers everything we love about Ubud — lush landscapes, culture, and soul — without the traffic and crowds. If you’re planning your Bali itinerary and craving something quieter, more authentic, and deeply special, Sidemen is absolutely worth making room for.
Best For:
Couples seeking quiet romance
Families wanting nature + space
Slow travellers and digital detox
Anyone craving “old Bali” vibes
Rice field lovers and mountain views
Wanting a full guide on Sidemen?
What we personally love about Sidemen:
✔ Feels like Ubud 20 years ago — peaceful and authentic
✔ Stunning rice paddies and Mount Agung views
✔ Amazing for families (space, nature, fresh air)
✔ Friendly locals and village atmosphere
✔ Plenty to do without crowds
And things we don't rate:
Sorry nothing to see here. In fact, we can’t wait to go back and explore more!
Best Things to Do in Sidemen
- Morning rice paddy walks (our favourite way to start the day with the kids)
- Visit nearby waterfalls like Gembleng or Jagasatru
- Explore local villages and temples
- Take a Balinese cooking class
- Enjoy spa treatments overlooking the valley
- Simply slow down — coffee with a view hits different here
We especially loved starting our mornings wandering through the rice fields with Kylo, watching farmers work and pointing out ducks in the paddies — those quiet moments ended up being some of our most memorable of the whole trip.
Where to Stay in Sidemen
Wapa di Ume Sidemen
💰 Luxury ~ $400+ USD/night
Where we stayed — and absolutely adored. Incredible views, beautiful villas, and the staff were amazing with the kids. Bonus points for the playground and trampoline, which made it feel genuinely family-friendly.
Cepik Villa
💰 Mid-range ~ $200–300 USD/night
Great value villas with rice field views and a peaceful setting close to town.
Sawah Indah Villa
💰 Budget ~ $120–180 USD/night
Simple, charming accommodation surrounded by paddies — perfect for slow travellers.
Seseh
Seseh quickly became one of our favourite places to stay in Bali — and honestly, part of us almost doesn’t want to tell people about it. It’s quiet, relaxed, and still feels like Bali before the boom. If you’re looking for one of the best areas of Bali that hasn’t fully turned into Canggu (yet), Seseh is it.
We spent several weeks here and absolutely loved the slower pace. It’s just 10–15 minutes from Canggu, so you can still dip into your favourite cafés and beach clubs whenever you feel like it — but you don’t have to deal with the traffic, noise or crowds daily. We could even order Gojek from Canggu, which was perfect on those early family nights when we didn’t want to head back out with the kids.
Most of our days in Seseh were beautifully simple. Slow mornings in the pool, walking to late breakfasts at Clove, Seseh General Store, or Mewali (which was amazing for kids thanks to its play area). We had a spa session at Cloud — easily one of the coolest designed spaces we visited, with such a calming, aesthetic vibe. Evenings were often spent at Thalassa for sunset drinks and dinner, where Kylo could run around on the grass and beach before sitting down to eat. It felt easy, spacious and genuinely family-friendly.
Accommodation-wise, we stayed in a beautiful two-bedroom villa with a separate bunk room for the kids, toys, books, and loads of space — which made it feel like a true home base. We also had a nanny come daily to help, which gave us breathing space without leaving the kids in busy areas. On another stay, we checked into Dune, a boutique hotel with terracotta tones, blush pinks and cacti everywhere — completely my aesthetic and such a vibe.
Seseh feels like the kind of place you visit before it becomes “the next big thing.” And that’s exactly why we love it.
Best For:
- Families wanting space and quiet
- Couples who love design-led villas
- Longer stays
- Travellers wanting to avoid Canggu traffic
- Anyone craving slow, simple Bali days
Wanting a full guide on Seseh?
What we personally love about Seseh:
✔ Quiet and peaceful
✔ Close to Canggu (without staying in it)
✔ Beautiful villas and boutique stays
✔ Great café options
✔ Easy food delivery from Canggu
And things we don't rate:
✖ Limited nightlife (not really a problem for us but wanted to flag it)
✖ Fewer restaurants than Canggu
✖ You’ll need a scooter or driver (we used Gojek and a driver)
Best Things to Do in Seseh
Morning beach walks at Seseh Beach
Breakfast at Clove, Seseh General Store or Mewali
Spa session at Cloud
Sunset drinks at Thalassa
Pool days at your villa
Order pizza from Seseh Pizza for an easy night in
Quick café or beach club trips into Canggu
- Visit Luna Beach Club in Cemagi
- Day Trip to Tanah Lot
Where to Stay in Seseh
Private Family Villas
💰 $250–500+ USD/night
Perfect for longer stays with kids. Look for villas with bunk rooms and pools.
Dune Boutique Hotel
💰 $200–350 USD/night
Stylish, design-forward stay with terracotta and blush tones — perfect for couples.
Luxury Clifftop Villas (varies)
💰 $600+ USD/night
For travellers wanting ocean views and high-end privacy.
Jimbaran
Just around the corner from the airport, Jimbaran is famous for their fresh seafood beach restaurants! The long stretch of beach offers calm waves and fishing boats.
We stayed at Watermark Hotel and Spa which is around $150 and has a great selection of facilities, including 3 restaurants, gym, two pools and Liang Spa. Jimbaran is also home to a bunch of luxury 5-star resorts like Ayana and the famous Rock Bar.
Related: Watermark Hotel and Spa Review
Legian
Once the most popular areas of Bali, these neighbouring towns are known as the city centres. They are the busiest and touristy part of Bali. Literally drowning with Restuarant, Shops and Hotels. I usually avoid staying around here, except I found a gorgeous villa on the outskirts of Legian that was just wonderful. Check it out here.
Off the beaten path….
Candidasa
A two hour drive from Kuta is the charming beach town of Candidasa. Sitting on the edge of a lagoon is where you will also find local villages steeped in tradition and Balinese culture. Visit nearby Karangesam Palace and the stunning Tirta Gangga Water Temple. A perfect base for snorkelling, diving and island day trips – take the walking trail along the headland for breathtaking views and secluded beaches. And don’t miss amazing photo opportunities at Bukit CInta and Lahangan Sweet where you get amazing views of Mt Agung. [
Amed
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Amed on Bali’s east coast is a diver’s paradise. Known for its volcanic black sand beaches and incredible underwater world, Amed offers a laid-back vibe far removed from Bali’s busier tourist hubs. You’ll find charming guesthouses, eco resorts, and homestays here.
Why stay here? Snorkelling, diving, and authentic Balinese coastal life.
Munduk
Often overlooked by most tourists, the town of Munduk is located 2 hours from Seminyak up in the cooler climate of the mountains.
Trekking is the big call card here and hikes like Waterfall Bonansa Trek and Twin Lake view point are reasons enough to add Munduk to your next Bali Itinerary. Although thanks to instagram more people are adventuring here to get the famous photos of Temple Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and the ‘golf’ gate.
With the myriad of trails through the rainforest to local villages, amazing waterfalls and the coffee and cocoa plantations the amazing Munduk is a must do on your Bali travel guide.Lovina
Located on the northern tip of Bali you will find the laid back beach of Lovina. The 12 km of coast strectches West of Singaraja in North Bali and is a welcome break from the bustle of the South.
Places We Personally Wouldn’t Stay
Choosing where to stay in Bali can really make or break your trip, and while every traveller is different, there are a couple of areas we now avoid using as a base.
Kuta
We grew up visiting Kuta, and for a long time it was Bali. Back in the day, it was one of the top places to stay thanks to cheap accommodation, lively nightlife (Bounty nightclub oh those were the days IYKYK), and easy beach access. But that was a long time ago.
These days, Kuta feels past its prime. It’s overcrowded, packed with tourist traps and scams, and can feel pretty chaotic. We haven’t stayed in Kuta since 2012, and while we still pop in during the day (we love visiting Waterbom and occasionally the nearby malls), it’s not somewhere we’d recommend basing yourself for your whole trip. In saying that i read alot of people in Bali Facebook Group and people still love staying at The Hard Rock Hotel? So if thats’s your thing go for it!
Our advice? Visit Kuta for specific attractions, then head back to calmer areas like Uluwatu, Seseh, or Ubud.
Denpasar
Despite being Bali’s capital, Denpasar isn’t somewhere we’d suggest staying as a visitor. It’s primarily a working city, with lots of traffic, shopping malls, and local business districts — but very little of the Bali magic most travellers come for.
While Denpasar plays an important role in daily Balinese life, it lacks the beaches, culture hubs, or resort-style accommodation that make other areas shine. Unless you have a very specific reason to stay here, we’d recommend choosing somewhere closer to the coast or countryside.
Things you should know about Bali
Population: 4.22 million
Capital: Denpasar
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (Rp)
Exchange Rate: As of 22/09/2018 it was 10,400RP to $1.00 AUD
Language: Bahasa Indonesia, with their own Balinese dialect.
Religion: Religion is a very important part of the culture in Bali. 85% of Balinese are Hindu and around 10% Muslim. The remaining five 5% practice Buddhism or Christianity.
Related: 10 Tips for Travelling to Asia
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Getting There
Jetstar often have sale fares to Bali and takes around 5.5 hours from the East Coast of Australia. If you are coming from someone other than Australia I would recommend using Garuda (Indonesian’s owned airline) and searching for your desired dates via Skyscanner.com
On Arrival
You will arrive at Denpasar International Airport. Walking out of the airport you may initially feel overwhelmed as there is often a mass of people (usually men) that are waiting to give you transport. I highly advise organising a shuttle with your hotel, alternatively, there is a Taxi rank when you exit to your right that is fixed priced; from memory, it is around 120,000 rp to Seminyak area which is about 20-30 mins away depending on traffic.
Getting Around
Although Bali is not huge, there are a lot of locations to visit and several ways you can reach them!
To get to your next destination: The cheapest way to get to your next destination is to hire a Go-Jek (the Indonesian Uber). This works great when Ubers are allowed to operate in that area. There has been a lot of outrage by the communities banning the use of Uber in areas allowing for local driving to set the price.
For example, I was able to get a Go-Jek from Seminyak to Ubud for 100,000 rp the equivalent of $10. I then thought I would be able to get an Uber again to the airport from Ubud. This wasn’t the case, no Uber drivers would pick me up resulting in me paying 300,000 rp for a private local driver to the airport. This is also the case around Uluwatu.
The next option and the most expensive way is to hire a taxi, Blue Bird taxis are the main and trusted taxi company as they stick to the metre. If you are happy to bargain a good price feel free to choose a different taxi company.
Another option is to book a shared shuttled. There are varying degree of price points, Perama and Kura Kura are great if you are on a strict budget. I used them from Legian to Ubud one trip and the price was 60,000 rp around $6. The downside of using a shuttle service is they leave at certain times which might not suit your itinerary and you might need to get yourself and luggage to a specific departing place.
Getting around in an area: Hiring a motorbike is an option – although I am never game. I usually get around by organising a local driver for day trips or for going longer distances. For shorter distances, I either walk or use “Blue Bird” taxis.
Cost of Travelling to Bali
The Bali travel guide wouldn’t be complete without discussing the budget! The cost of traveling to Bali can vary greatly depending on your travel style, but overall, Bali remains one of the best-value destinations in the world.
Bali on a budget ($50-$100 per day)is easily achieved if you plan and research ahead, stay at hostels or guesthouses, eat at local warungs and don’t travel around too much. Although the island is small travelling to each hot spot can get expensive especially if you are solo or getting a private driver.
Mid-range travellers should budget around $250 -300 per day, which covers comfortable hotels, a mix of local and Western dining, activities like spa treatments and surf lessons, and occasional private transport.
For those seeking luxury, Bali offers high-end resorts, private villas, fine dining, and premium experiences that can push costs to $350+ per day.
Flights vary based on seasonality, with round-trip tickets from major cities like Sydney or Los Angeles ranging from $600–$2000. Additional costs like travel insurance, SIM cards, entrance fees to attractions, and optional splurges (such as private tours or yacht charters) should also be factored into your budget.
Best time to visit Bali
The best time to visit Bali will depend on the type of trip you are taking. For most Australians looking for a relaxing beach-type getaway July, August and December are classed as the peak season. Flights and accommodation are more expensive at this time.
Dec-March is the wet season. If you don’t mind the short rainstorms, visit Bali between November and April. There are still plenty of things to do, and it’s the cheapest time to go! My favourite would be anytime! Just remember during the wet season the prices are down but the rubbish on the beaches rises!
When is the worst time to travel to Bali?
The worst time to travel to Bali depends on your priorities, but generally, the peak tourist season (July–August and December–early January) and the wet season (November–March) come with significant downsides. During high season, Bali is at its busiest, with beaches, temples, and popular attractions packed with tourists. Accommodation and flights are also at their most expensive, making it harder to find good deals.
On the other hand, the wet season brings heavy rainfall, high humidity, and rough seas, which can impact outdoor activities like hiking, island-hopping, and even surfing due to strong currents. While some travellers enjoy the quieter vibe of the rainy season, frequent downpours and occasional flooding in areas like Ubud and Seminyak can be inconvenient.
Additionally, Nyepi (Balinese New Year, usually in March) is a day of silence where the entire island, including the airport, shuts down—something to keep in mind if your travel dates overlap.
Bali Resources
BALI ITINERARY
BALI BUCKET LIST
Best Areas to Stay in Bali with Kids
Travelling with little ones? Bali is surprisingly family-friendly. Areas like Sanur, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran offer calm beaches, family resorts, and plenty of activities for children. For families who want more space, private villas in Canggu or Seminyak are a great option, often coming with pools and in-house staff.
Best areas for kids in Bali:
- Sanur: Safe swimming beaches, playgrounds, and relaxed vibes.
- Nusa Dua: Luxury family resorts with kids’ clubs and calm waters.
- Jimbaran: Great seafood dinners on the sand and gentle waves.
- Canggu: Trendy but with plenty of family villas and beach options.
Tips for Choosing the Best Area in Bali
- For nightlife & food: Canggu, Seminyak, Legian
- For food & beaches: Uluwatu
- For wellness & culture: Ubud, Sidemen
- For families: Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran
- For seclusion & diving: Amed, Padang Bai
- For island escapes: Nusa Lembongan, Gili Islands
Where to eat in Bali
Most Bali travel guides seem to skip over ‘where to eat’ in Bali. Let’s face it though eating is my favourite thing to do and Bali is a foodie heaven! You will be absolutely spoiled for choice, with a great range of cafes, restaurants, warungs and beach clubs in each location. Here are some of our favourites.
Rainbow Toast from Kynd Cafe
Dumpling and Taco Bowl from Warung Sopa
Nasi Campur from Warung Metta Catering
The Melville Breakfast from Crate Cafe
Nasi Campur from Biku Bali
Chicken Banh Mi and Vietnamese Coffee from Bo & Bun
Fritters from The Corner House
Vegan Nasi Campur from Peleton Supershop
What do in Bali
This diverse, eclectic island is just waiting for you to discover it – no matter what kind of traveller you are. Whether you’re here for a backpacking trip, a Bali honeymoon, a relaxing vacation or for a wellness retreat there is lots for you to do on this amazing Indonesian Island!
Because there is so much, we wrote an Ultimate Bucketlist, 50 + things to do in Bali! And if you are travelling with kids check out out Best Things To Do In Bali With Kids.[
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Bali is an island with many sides, and the magic lies in finding the right area for your style of travel. From beach clubs and surf towns to hidden villages and family-friendly resorts, the best areas of Bali to stay each offer something unique. Use this guide to decide where to base yourself, or better yet, combine a few different regions to experience the full variety of Bali.
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FAQs - Where to stay in Bali
What is the best area to stay in Bali for first-time visitors?
If it’s your first trip to Bali, we usually recommend staying in Canggu, Ubud, or Uluwatu — each offers a very different experience. Canggu is great for cafés, beach clubs and modern Bali vibes, Ubud is perfect for jungle scenery and culture, while Uluwatu delivers dramatic cliffs and some of Bali’s best beaches. If you have time, splitting your stay between two areas gives you the best taste of the island.
Where should families stay in Bali?
For families, we love quieter areas with space and easy access to amenities like Seseh, Uluwatu (Bingin/Padang Padang area), or parts of Nusa Dua. These areas offer family-friendly villas, calmer beaches, and less traffic than central Canggu. Private villas with pools are often better value than hotels when travelling with kids, especially for longer stays.
What’s the best place to stay in Bali for couples?
Couples usually fall in love with Uluwatu, Ubud, or Sidemen. Uluwatu is perfect for sunsets, beach clubs and clifftop resorts, Ubud offers jungle retreats and wellness experiences, and Sidemen is ideal if you’re craving quiet rice paddies and total relaxation. These areas are beautiful for romantic escapes and slower-paced travel.
Is it better to stay in one place or move around Bali?
We always recommend moving around if you can. Bali may look small, but travel times can be long due to traffic. Staying in at least two areas (for example: Canggu + Uluwatu, or Ubud + Nusa Lembongan) lets you experience beaches, jungle, culture and island life without spending hours in the car every day.
How many nights should I stay in each area?
As a general guide:
Canggu or Seseh: 3–5 nights
Ubud or Sidemen: 3–4 nights
Uluwatu: 4–7 nights
Nusa Islands: 2–3 nights
This gives you enough time to settle in, explore properly, and still travel at a relaxed pace.
Are villas or hotels better in Bali?
It really depends on your travel style. Villas are amazing for families, groups, or longer stays because you get space, privacy and often your own pool. Hotels and resorts are great if you want daily housekeeping, on-site restaurants, kids clubs or spa facilities. Bali has incredible options in both — we usually mix villas and resorts on longer trips.
What areas should I avoid staying in?
Rather than “avoid,” we’d say choose areas carefully based on your travel style. Kuta and parts of Legian can feel hectic and party-focused, which isn’t ideal for families or relaxed travellers. Central Canggu can also feel busy during peak season. That’s why we personally prefer quieter spots like Seseh or Bingin while still visiting Canggu for day trips.
Is Bali safe to stay in different areas?
Yes — Bali is generally very safe for travellers. As with anywhere, be mindful of traffic, secure your belongings, and choose reputable accommodation. We always recommend booking stays with good reviews and arranging airport transfers through your hotel or villa when arriving late at night.
When is the best time to book accommodation in Bali?
For peak season (June–September and December), we suggest booking at least 2–3 months ahead, especially for popular villas and family-friendly resorts. Shoulder seasons (April–May and October–November) offer better availability and pricing, and are some of our favourite times to visit.
35 Responses
Woow. This definitely looks like an ultimate guide to Bali. I have been reading quite a lot about Bali recently and your blog seems to have all the details one would look for. Love the pictures. Especially those of the semanyak beach. The beach looks so inviting with all the colors.
This is such a comprehensive & colourful post on Bali, it’s so helpful to travellers, especially Australians like me haha! There’s heaps to do, it’s a place you can keep going back to, especially with cheap Jetstar flights 🙂
Amazing that you have been to Bali 25x! I wish I could go at least once in my lifetime. It looks like a great place to bring the family, relax on the beach and eat good food together.
While I myself am a Hindu, I never knew that Bali was a Hindu majority place. You have such gorgeous pics from your travel. The seafood look mouth watering. Adding Bali to my bucket list right away 🙂
Thanks for this extensive guide, definitely will come in handy when we will eb traveling around, hopefully this year! Great inspirations!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I am planning a two week trip to Bali in April and all the information I gained from here is valuable! Having been to Bali so many times, I was wondering if you could answer to some of my questions I have. Would it be doable to stay in Ubud and go to the dentist in Kuta every few days? Is it an hour drive or could it be more depending of the traffic? (Going to the dentist is my main reason for visiting while I also want to see and do as much as I can.) Is there any good scuba diving locations besides in Gili? How expensive is it to climb Mt. Batur? I am trying to find accommodation at the moment too and there is just way too much choice! I am going to go through you suggestions too. Pinned as well! Thanks!
I am surprised you’ve visited Bali 25 times and intend to visit regularly. Must be a real wonderful place for you! Truth be told I have never been to Bali. I would love to go there with my sister. Thanks to this blog I could familiarize myself even before I could check the plane tickets. This guide to Bali is indeed the ultimate!
Wow! I cannot believe you’ve visited Bali 25 times — you are so lucky to get to call it a second home! It certainly has always felt like a vacation destination so far out of reach to me, but you are making me so eager to go! I definitely would love to indulge in some beach time, but the off the beaten path ideas sound so much more amazing to be able to dive deeper into the culture there! The Ubud markets look so pretty and colorful and I’d love to shop there! I’m totally going to save this post for whenever I visit, since you are so familiar with the region!
Wow 25 times is dedication! I love returning to a favorite place though, so I totally understand.
I fell so in love with Bali when I visited. The people were so kind and the food was amazing. My favorite part of Bali had to be Ahmed. They had some of the most beautiful coral reefs for snorkeling and we stayed in a private villa for $15 dollars in the off season!
You had me cracking up at that first/introductory paragraph! You must love Bali so much to go back that many times! And with that much time in Bali, I think you are the perfect guide to write this down. I love that you can do so many things and it’s clear why tourists love Bali so much! Coincidentally, we just featured a travel film on Bali on our blog. We love the culture in Bali, as much as you do!
You visited Bali the 25th time!! You must love the place so much. Although I must say, I have been reading your posts on bali and some other posts also, bali does look like a very very interesting destination. I will also love to visit here
I’d definitely climb Mt Batur and visit the rice fields. I’m sure I’d get great photos! The daily cocktails sound great too whilst watching the sunset. The food looks good but I would be craving a burger!
Bali is somewhere I’ve always wanted to go, so jealous you’ve been 20-odd times! There’s nothing wrong with going back somewhere time and time again, especially if it starts feeling like home. The Melville Breakfast looks amazing!
I’ve always wanted to visit Bali…and you’ve already been there 20 times!! that’s crazy. I’m jealous! 🙂 I’d love to go there for my honeymoon (whenever that time comes). It definitely has the atmosphere for it. And the meals looks so yummy in your photos! Food is a big part of traveling, in my opinion, and with a breakfast like that – how can you go wrong 😀
Bali has been on my list of places to go for YEARS! Thank you so much for creating this guide! I hope I can use it this year, fingers crossed!
I haven’t been to Bali yet but it’s nice to know there are several options of where to stay and that each one is different. I think I would spend a ridiculous amount of time shopping in Ubud!
I also have a friend whose favorite place is Bali. Like you, she always returns, sometimes 2 to 3 times a year. She also considers it as her second home. She attributes it more to the people, they are very kind she said.
I haven’t been there yet, I lost a chance to go last year because the trip was too long and my superiors at work didn’t allow me to go. But I do wish to go there myself. I love discovering new culture and I can see that Indonesia is a country whose cultural identity is very much intact. I cannot say for my country unfortunately, we are too westernized.
All the pools look amazing I bet they were needed to refresh in. I love the idea of hiring a local driver to get around rather than a motorbike I will definitely look into this when I go
I was on Bali last summer and loved it!
Stayed in Legian and Ubud (and the Gili’s)and although it was a bit crowded, it was not that bad.
x
Loved reading your travel guide for Bali and loved being reminded of the fantastic time we had , thanks darling for a great read.
Loved your posts on Bali, I am a huge fan and been coming since 1997. Its nice to read a post that isn’t bagging Bali. Australia is so blessed to have a place like Bali so close, even closer for us in Perth 🙂
Hi Lovely, thanks for your comment. Glad our post was helpful!
How many times do you need to go to the dentist? Ubud is about 1 hour and 15 mins from Kuta but yes traffic can easily change this to make 2 hours! Perhaps you could start your trip in Sanur or Seminyak which is a little closer to Kuta then head up to Ubud for a few nights then go to Jimbaran which is also close to Kuta? There are tons of good scuba diving sites, including Padang Bai (which is where you get the boat to Gili), Ahmed/Candi Dasa, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and up north at Lovina!
Mt Batur is about $40-50 USD per person but can be cheaper if you book whilst in Bali.
What is your budget for Accom? There are so many amazing places for any budget! The easiest way is to first plan your itinerary then have a look into accom. Feel free to email me if you need further help with itinerary/ accom etc! My email is info@kelanabykayla.com
xx
Loved this post on Bali – been 10 times but always something new to discover. warm hospitality!
That is a very comprehensive post on Bali, now I realise how little of Bali I have seen 🙂 Time to visit again I guess
my second home too – lots of good tips here for first timers
Thanks lovely! Do you have any tips I could add? Also where do you love to stay when you go? x
Thank you so much! What did you love most about Bali when you visited? x
Thank you! Oh yes such kind people ! I am still finding new places to explore! Crazy how such a small island can have so much to do and see!
Thanks Lyn! Oh I envy your 2 hour flight! I would be going on weekends haha! x
Thanks Mum! Cant wait to go back with my favourite Bali buddies <3 xx
Its always fine as well if you stay in the back streets which is still close to everything yet far enough from the crowd! Glad you loved it Steph! xx
Hahah yeh motorbikes scare me! Drivers are fantastic plus they always give you extra knowledge of Bali and the culture!! x
I love the unique temples in Bali, and you shouldn’t miss Kecak Dance performance 🙂
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