A traveler's guide to where to stay in bali
Where to Stay in Bali for First-Timers Visiting Indonesia
The Best Places to Stay
in Bali by Area
If you're visiting Bali for the first time, it can be tough to decide where to stay. With so many different villages and accommodation options, it really is best to do your research and see which areas are known for what. After that, you can decide if you want to stay in an Airbnb, hostel, hotel, etc. That's why I've taken the time to outline each popular area in Bali, what it's known for, and the best places to stay so you can make the best decision based on the type of vacation you want!
Where to Stay in Popular Areas in Bali
From luscious rice terraces to beach clubs and great waves for surfing, Bali offers something for every type of traveler. To see which areas best fit your interests, consult the information below. I've been to multiple different areas in Bali and while I personally believe that choosing a couple to go to during your trip is the best way to go, do with this information what you will!
1. Seminyak – Best for Trendy Vibes, Beach Clubs & Shopping
If you go to Instagram and look up "Seminyak" you're going to find aesthetic coffee spots, beach clubs, and beautiful beaches. While Seminyak is more of a tourist beach resort area, it's a great spot to visit if you're looking for some social time. It's also perfect for beach and pool lovers who don't necessarily want to be adventuring and hiking all day in Bali, but would rather have a more relaxing vacation with the option to go out to dinner or to dance. Some of the best spots to stay at in Seminyak include:
2. Ubud – Best for Culture, Yoga & Jungle Escapes
Ubud, to me, is the essence of Bali. It's the perfect balance of residential areas with rice terraces and restaurants, Airbnbs, shops, yoga studios, etc. Close to popular attractions like the
Sacred Monkey Forest,
Tegenungan Waterfall, and
Tegallalang Rice Terraces, this is the perfect area to stay in if you're looking for an adventurous holiday enjoying the jungle. A few places that I could suggest if you do opt to stay in Ubud include:
3. Canggu – Best for Digital Nomads & Surf Culture
Canggu is one of my top favorite places in Bali and it's
4. Uluwatu – Best for Sunsets, Cliffs & Surf
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5. Nusa Dua – Best for Families & All-Inclusive Resorts
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6. Nusa Islands – Best for Island Vibes & Snorkeling
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Where to Stay in Bali by Budget
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Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Bali (That Are Worth the Splurge)
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Best Mid-Range Hotels & Boutique Villas in Bali
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Best Budget-Friendly Hostels & Guesthouses in Bali
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Where to Stay in Bali Based on Travel Style
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Romantic Places to Stay in Bali for Couples
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Where to Stay in Bali for a Girls Trip or Bachelorette
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Best Places to Stay for Solo Travelers in Bali
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Best Bali Hotels for Families with Kids
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Ready to Plan Your Dream Trip to Bali?
Choosing where to stay in Bali is just the beginning. Whether you're dreaming of cliffside luxury, jungle retreats, or beachfront relaxation, there's a perfect spot for every kind of traveler. Don’t forget to explore our other Bali guides — from things to do in Bali, to local customs and cultural etiquette, and even what you need to know about drinking the water in Bali to stay healthy and stress-free. And if you're planning your honeymoon, friend trip, or solo getaway — I’ve got you covered. Subscribe for more travel tips, dreamy locations, and real talk from the road. Scroll down to see other blogs about Bali to prepare for your trip to one of the most beautiful islands in the world!
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