Best Areas in Bali – Where to Stay in Bali + Bali Travel Guide

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.

Related: 10 Amazing this to do in Sulawesi, Indonesia

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:

• Seminyak – Best for boutique resorts, luxury villas, beach clubs, shopping, and nightlife
• Kuta & Legian – Best for backpackers, budget stays, and a lively beach atmosphere
• Canggu – Best for trendy cafés, villas, surf, nightlife, and markets
• Ubud – Best for culture, yoga, wellness retreats, and rice terrace views
• Seseh – Best for peaceful escapes, ocean sunsets, and rice fields near Canggu
• Amed – Best for diving, snorkelling, and a laid-back East Coast vibe
• Padang Bai – Best for local charm, hidden beaches, and access to the Gilis and Lombok
• Sanur – Best for calm beaches, families, and relaxed resorts
• Nusa Dua – Best for five-star beachfront resorts and family-friendly stays
• Jimbaran – Best for seafood on the beach and kid-friendly waters
• Sidemen – Best for jungle retreats, rice terraces, and a slower pace
• Uluwatu – Best for clifftop villas, surf breaks, and sunset beach clubs
• Nusa Lembongan – Best for island vibes, snorkelling, and crystal-clear water
• Gili Islands – Best for island-hopping, diving, and car-free escapes

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 where to stay. During our recent 3 week trip, we spent 3 or 4 nights in each location. 

Uluwatu

Located at the very south of Bali on the Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is most famous for its stunning cliff-top temple and epic surf break!  The hilly limestone region is home to scenic luxury villas and resorts, popular for weddings that overlook the Indian Ocean and amazing sunsets.

The cliff-fringed coastline is also home to hidden beaches and world-class surf breaks, a mecca for wave riders from the world over. Bingin, Dreamland and Padang Padang are some best beaches in Uluwatu and should be a top consideration if you’re looking for a stay that is away from the common crowds of Bali. We stayed at a gorgeous eco resort in Bingin during our time. 3 days in Uluwatu is the perfect amount of time to explore this region.

Seminyak

I always stay in Seminyak when I come, there are so many cheap gorgeous villas that you can rent long term or stay at for a couple of nights. Although getting busier every time I visit, it has all my favourite cafes that I just love working from! Seminyak has everything including designers boutiques, Bali’s famous beach clubs, Spa’s to fit every price range and fine dining restaurants. Try Alam Bidadari if you are after a Villa or D’djabu if want a budget option!

Related: “Top Seminyak Accommodation for under $200“

Canggu

Another beach town but with a cooler edge thanks to the surf scene. The town is surrounded by rice paddies which makes Canggu very beautiful. In town, there’s an array of organic restaurants and cheap, gorgeous villas and hotels. Try Bali Dream Villas  or Fella Villas via Airbnb for some luxe for less. Or the very cool Pineapple House for an amazing surf and yoga retreat!

Nusa Dua

Up until last year I had never stayed at Nusa Dua, the 5-star resorts always put me off. On our most recent trip, we were working with Merusaka Nusa Dua and fell in love with Nusa Dua. Our beachfront hotel had pristine ocean views and an array of things to do.

Although Nusa Dua can be very expensive, it’s also extremely beautiful and has an incredibly calming atmosphere! I had a look at Ayodya whilst I was there, as I am planning on staying here next time! Amazing beach front location, colourful bean bags and doesn’t break the bank!

Sanur

A quieter and more relaxed coastal area. Around 30 mins from the airport, it sits on the opposite side of the island to Kuta.  A long stretch of beach that offers shallow blue waters. The main street Jalan Tamblingan is home to restaurants, shops and hotels. We stayed at Wirasana Bali on the main street for under $30 a night!

Ubud

Ubud to me is the cultural hub of Bali, located about an hour’s north of the airport, up the in mountains. It is surrounded by rice paddies and lush rainforest, making it a breath of fresh air. A lot of people come here to recharge, meditate and take part in yoga classes. The calming atmosphere, amazing restaurants, incredible landscapes and culture make Ubud a must-stay location! Our accommodation was absolutely magical. Suarti Boutique Village is located just out of Ubud’s city centre, with impressive gardens, stunning rooms and free daily activities!

Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan is one of Bali’s most-loved island escapes, small, easy to navigate, and perfect for families, couples, and adventure-seekers. Just a 30-minute boat ride from Sanur, it feels worlds away with its quiet coastal roads, friendly village vibes, and crystal-clear turquoise water. Our Nusa Lembongan guide always highlights how simple life feels here: no traffic, no towering resorts, just beach shacks, dreamy viewpoints, and some of the best snorkelling in Indonesia. Whether you’re exploring by scooter or beach-hopping by buggy, the island offers the ideal balance of relaxation and adventure.

Of course, the coastline is what truly steals the show, and the best Nusa Lembongan beachesare some of the most beautiful in all of Bali. Dream Beach is known for its dramatic cliffs and powerful waves, while Mushroom Bay offers calm, sheltered water that’s perfect for kids. Jungut Batu Beach delivers long, golden sands with postcard-perfect sunsets, and Sandy Bay is the go-to spot for afternoon cocktails overlooking the ocean. With its natural charm and slow-paced rhythm, Nusa Lembongan is the kind of place that makes you want to extend your trip—every single time.

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

Kuta & 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….

Sidemen

Beyond the bustling beach clubs of Seminyak, the trendy cafes in Canggu, and the cliffside vibes of Uluwatu, lies a place that feels like a step back in time: Sidemen Bali. Picture rolling rice terraces, lush jungle-covered hills, local farmers working their land, and the majestic Mount Agung watching over it all. Sidemen is still untouched – and it just might be our favourite spot on the entire island.

Seseh

Seseh is a peaceful coastal village just north of Canggu, offering a more authentic and secluded escape while still being close to trendy cafés and restaurants. It’s perfect for travellers who want to unwind in private villas surrounded by rice fields, without sacrificing easy access to Bali’s west coast. Seseh is becoming increasingly popular for families and couples seeking a quieter base.

Why stay here? Serenity, stunning sunsets, and proximity to Canggu without the crowds.

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. 

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

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.

• Best Seminyak Restaurants

• Best Seminyak Cafes

• Best Cafes in Canggu

• Best Cafes in Ubud

• Best Cafes in Uluwatu

• Best places to eat in Ubud for Vegans/Vegetarians

• Best Warungs and Cheap Eats in Bali

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

Our Bali travel guide wouldn’t be complete without showcasing the best things to do whilst in Bali. There’s so much to discover in Bali, with a mix of family-friendly activities, cultural spots, beach clubs, great surf and amazing cuisine its no wonder people are flocking here in the masses.

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!

Below is a short list to get you inspired, but because there is so much, we wrote an Ultimate Bucketlist, 50 + things to do in Bali!

Climb Mt Batur

Suggested Tours:  Sunrise Trek, Mt Batur Trekking

Shop in Seminyak

Try the local Indonesian Cuisine

Stay in a Private Villa

Learn to Surf

Surfing in Bali is on everyone’s Indonesia bucket list, there are waves for everyone whetherer you’re just learning to surf or you have been surfing since you could walk.

Our favourite spots for the experienced surfer are Keramas, Airports – also know as Kuta Reef, impossibles and Bingin.

If you are just starting out I learnt to surf at a retreat in Canggu but there are a couple of good spots in Uluwatu as well.

Do a Cooking Class

Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches

Have romantic seafood dinner at sunset on Jimbaran Beach

Appreciate the Gorgeous Daily offerings given to the Hindu Gods

Visit the Rice Fields

There are many beautiful rice fields all over Bali, the most iconic are the Tegallalang Rice Fields and Kajeng Rice Field Trail which are both located in the Ubud area. You could also visit the Campuhan Ridge Walk, which is right in town In Ubud. 

Visit Uluwatu Temple and See Kecak Dance

The Kecak Fire Dance is one of Bali’s most iconic art performances and is mentioned in most Bali travel guides, famous for its dominant use of human vocals in place of gamelan instruments to accompany the dance-drama at its core.

Your visit to the island won’t be complete without seeing a show, and the best place to do so is at the cliff-top amphitheatre located just south of the Uluwatu Temple on Bali’s southern Bukit peninsula… and at sunset for added drama.

Indulge with Spa Days

Enjoy Cocktails Daily

Try the Weird and Wonderful Exotic Fruits

Do Yoga in Ubud

Day trip to Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is a biggest of the three Nusa islands located off mainland Bali. You can get to Nusa Penida by boat and takes around 20 mins. There are many places to organise a day trip in Bali. There are beautiful waters and beaches to visit but the most iconic reason made famous by Instagram is to see  Kelingking point!

Shop at the Famous Ubud Markets

Go Snorkeling or Diving

Visit the Surrounding Islands

The surrounding islands of Bali have all the paradise without the crowds. Head to the Gili Islands, Nusa Islands or Lombok. Or adventure a little further and discover the wonders of Flores and Komodo.

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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