The most popular island in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali, often referred to as the “Island of Gods,” offers a captivating blend of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, rich history, and spiritual significance. Each year, the island attracts thousands of tourists from around the globe and is renowned as a premier destination for surfing and diving, along with an array of religious and archaeological sites recognized worldwide for their splendor.
Bali is home to two highly active volcanoes, Batur and Agung, alongside a plethora of cafes, restaurants, beach clubs, shopping venues, and exotic palaces. Visitors are greeted by pristine beaches and luxuriant jungles, providing ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. While certain areas of the island are lively with young backpackers and a bustling nightlife, others offer serene beaches and jungle resorts that present a peaceful retreat into the enchanting scenery of Bali.
The following sections outline what to anticipate from each neighborhood and suggest the best accommodation options, thereby facilitating informed choices regarding where to stay in Bali.
Kuta
Kuta represents the bustling heart of Bali, teeming with both local and international travelers at all hours. Originally celebrated as a surfing oasis, the extensive Kuta coastline is a favored spot for numerous visitors seeking sun, sand, and surf. The area is filled with shopping venues, cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs, establishing it as the liveliest part of Bali. For those who seek more than the expansive golden beach, Waterbom Bali, the island’s premier waterpark, is a must-visit.
Good for: All types of tourists, particularly the young.
Other Highlights: Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, Dream Museum Zone Bali, Museum Pasifika, and New Kuta Green Park.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Amnaya Resort Kuta – Located in the vibrant center of Kuta, this resort features upscale guestrooms and top-tier facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, an à-la-carte restaurant, a fully-equipped fitness center, manicured gardens, and a luxurious spa. It is conveniently situated within walking distance to attractions like Waterbom Bali and Discovery Shopping Mall, making it ideal for a broad range of travelers.
- Novotel Bali Ngurah Rai Airport – This prestigious property presents direct access to the international departures and domestic arrivals of Ngurah Rai Airport, providing comfortable accommodations alongside excellent features. Amenities include an outdoor pool, a 24-hour front desk, a fitness center, and a full-service spa, catering well to solo travelers, couples, and small families.
- Grand Inna Kuta – Just a short stroll from the iconic Kuta Beach, this hotel offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms equipped with modern amenities, mere minutes from the lively shopping streets of Kuta. Guests can also enjoy 24-hour room service, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant offering a diverse menu of Indonesian and Western cuisine, suitable for a variety of travelers.
Seminyak
Frequently regarded as one of the most fashionable and upscale neighborhoods in Bali, Seminyak is an elegant beach resort district known for its extraordinary villas, diverse restaurants, and high-end boutiques. Petitenget Beach provides a more secluded ambiance, while the acclaimed Potato Head Beach Club serves as a gathering place for those seeking a vibrant nightlife experience. A visit to the renowned “Eat Street” is also a must while in this area.
Good for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Nyaman Gallery, Pura Petitenget, Pura Masceti, and Double Six Beach.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Dash Hotel Seminyak – Within walking distance of Seminyak Beach and the popular Potato Head Beach Club, this hotel offers stylish guestrooms designed with bright and contemporary elements and includes a multitude of amenities. Guests can begin their mornings with a complimentary breakfast and organize day tours through the concierge service. Leisure time can be spent by the outdoor swimming pool or at the full-service spa and wellness center, catering to all kinds of travelers.
- Amadea Resort & Villas Seminyak Bali – Situated a mere 10-minute walk from the beach and close to “Eat Street,” this luxurious resort features lavish rooms, suites, and villas with advanced amenities. Guests can relax at the rooftop spa located within a tropical garden or take a dip in the outdoor pool, ideal for various travelers.
- Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak Resort – This upscale retreat is conveniently located within walking distance to the popular Seminyak beach and features elegantly designed guestroom accommodations and one-bedroom suites, along with facilities such as a fully-equipped fitness center, a rejuvenating spa, and an outdoor swimming pool. On-site dining and pool bar options ensure all culinary needs are met, perfect for couples and small families.
Ubud
Regarded as Bali’s cultural heart, Ubud is situated away from the beaches, nestled in the island’s mountainous regions and rice paddies. Renowned for its artistic atmosphere and rural charm, Ubud is home to many authentic Balinese temples and striking palaces, including the celebrated Puri Saren Royal Palace and the Pura Taman Saraswati Temple. Notably, the Ubud Monkey Forest is home to a population of grey long-tail macaques. The Ubud Art Market, located opposite the Royal Palace, serves as an excellent venue for purchasing local crafts.
Good for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Goa Gajah, Puri Lukisan Museum, Agung Rai Museum of Art, Ubud Palace, and Museum Rudana.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Ubud Wana Resort – Featuring three outdoor swimming pools, a multi-cuisine restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and a well-appointed spa and wellness center, this resort boasts warmly decorated, modern rooms just a five-minute walk from the prominent Ubud Monkey Forest. The property offers a complimentary shuttle service to central Ubud, catering to various types of travelers.
- Alaya Resort Ubud – Positioned amidst the stunning rice fields and impressive landscapes of Ubud, this resort features tastefully designed Balinese-style rooms and suites furnished with complimentary Wi-Fi, terrace, tea/coffee maker, and complimentary bottled beer in select rooms. With views overlooking the garden or the resort’s outdoor pool, it suits all kinds of travelers.
- Pajar House Ubud & Villas – Nestled in the center of a traditional Balinese village, this luxury property offers Balinese-style and modernly decorated guest accommodations with views of beautifully landscaped gardens. Complimentary Wi-Fi and bicycle rentals are provided for guests, and the attentive staff can organize day trips, airport transfers, and massage services, making it ideal for various travelers.
Canggu
Famed for its surfing locations, expatriate community, and numerous coworking spaces, Canggu is transitioning from a quaint coastal village to a developing resort area. Berawa and Batu Bolong beaches are especially popular among professional surfers who come to ride the challenging waves. For those planning an extended stay and interested in networking, numerous beach clubs, such as Old Man’s and Finn’s Beach Club, offer social opportunities.
Good for: All types of visitors, with a focus on surfers and digital nomads.
Other Highlights: Splash Waterpark Bali, Pura Batu Bolong, and Taman Segara Madu Water Park.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Theanna Eco Villa and Spa – A short distance from the beach, the stunning property features elegantly furnished villas inspired by a blend of Balinese, Scandinavian, and Japanese aesthetics. Guests can indulge in treatments at the on-site spa and wellness center or spend their evenings at the restaurant and bar, suitable for all travelers.
- Regali Villa Canggu – Located near the popular Echo Beach in Canggu, this villa welcomes guests to unwind in a tropical retreat featuring an outdoor pool, spa and wellness facilities, and a restaurant on-site. It accommodates various travelers, including larger groups.
- Aston Canggu Beach Resort – Just a short walk away from well-known beaches like Echo Beach and Batu Bolong Beach, this resort features fashionably designed guest accommodations with state-of-the-art amenities and exceptional service. On-site, guests can enjoy the swimming pool, relaxing on the sundeck, and savor cocktails at the pool bar while soaking in panoramic ocean views, suitable for couples and small families.
Jimbaran
A fishing village and resort area lying south of Kuta, Jimbaran is recognized as the top seafood destination in Bali. Offering a quieter and more exclusive alternative to Kuta and Legian, Jimbaran boasts breathtaking ocean vistas along with numerous seafood establishments. Notably, Padang Padang Beach is a significant surf spot in the area, celebrated for its consistent waves.
Good for: All types of travelers, particularly seafood enthusiasts.
Other Highlights: Pandawa Beach, Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, Kedonganan Fish Market, and Bingin Beach.
Hotel Recommendations:
- AYANA Resort and Spa, BALI – Within a five-minute walk from the beach, this remarkable property features stylishly designed rooms and suites offering ocean or green surroundings views. Set within a cliff-top tropical garden, AYANA Resort and Spa provides 12 swimming pools, Thalasso massage therapies, an 18-hole golf course, a tennis court, a complete fitness center, and a diverse range of dining options, making it an ideal luxury retreat.
- Keraton Jimbaran Beach Resort – Just steps away from picturesque Jimbaran Bay, this upscale beach resort features tastefully designed traditional Balinese-style rooms and one-bedroom villas equipped with private balconies or terraces. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool, a variety of dining experiences, a full-service spa, and currency exchange services, suited for solo travelers and couples.
- La Joya II Biu-Biu – A pleasant stroll from the nearby beach, this carefully curated retreat features interiors that reflect traditional Indonesian design alongside an outdoor pool with views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. An on-site restaurant serves both local and international cuisines, catering to a wide range of travelers.
Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua serves as an all-encompassing beach resort town, housing numerous world-class luxury accommodations and five-star hotel properties. Regardless of the selected establishment, the meticulous planning of the area ensures proximity to shopping venues, manicured greens, and an 18-hole golf course. Although it ranks among the most developed resort towns, Nusa Dua maintains a cultural allure visible through its temples and museums.
Good for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Pura Gegar, Pasifika Museum, Bali Collection, and Puja Mandala.
Hotel Recommendations:
- INAYA Putri Bali – Situated on the Nusa Dua beachfront and a leisurely 15-minute walk from the Bali Collection, this exceptional resort features well-furnished guestrooms, suites, and villas equipped with premium amenities like flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, seating areas, minibars, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and bathtubs. Various facilities include an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and a tour desk for arranging city tours, catering to diverse travelers.
- Ayodya Resort Bali – Positioned directly on the pristine sands of Nusa Dua Beach, this resort features beautifully furnished guestrooms that offer striking views of the surroundings. Guests can enjoy swimming at the outdoor pool or relaxing in the garden, while children can play in the designated playground. Fitness enthusiasts can utilize the on-site fitness center, followed by relaxation at the spa, making it ideal for various travelers.
- The Westin Resort Nusa Dua Bali – Offering picturesque vistas of Nusa Dua Beach’s lush greenery, this premier resort presents spacious guestrooms featuring top-tier hospitality and service. Guests can spend their day at any of the five outdoor pools or indulge in a wellness treatment at the full-service on-site spa. Culinary enthusiasts can choose from seven dining options, including a healthy breakfast menu at the nutritious in-house restaurant, catering exceptionally to luxury travelers.
Legian
As Bali’s second-most popular beach, following Kuta, Legian is known for its immaculate white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife. Although the neighborhood may initially appear similar to Kuta, a leisurely beach walk along the serene sands of Double Six Beach or an evening exploring the art galleries along Jalan Legian reveals the unique charm it possesses. Moreover, Legian is recognized as a notable surfing destination, home to the renowned Rip Curl School of Surf, celebrated for its outstanding lessons for novices.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Waterbom Bali, Dream Museum Zone (DMZ) Bali, Armada Flow House, and 5GX Bali Reverse Bungy.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Padma Resort Legian – Featuring two stunning pools with sunken bars, diverse dining options, a soothing spa, and a comfortable departure lounge, Padma Resort Legian offers luxurious accommodations within a short distance from the beach. A delightful complimentary breakfast is served daily, making it suitable for various travelers.
- The Camakila Legian Bali – A short stroll away from the soft sands of Legian Beach, this stylish resort features both an infinity pool and a lagoon pool. Conveniently located between the lively areas of Kuta and Seminyak, it offers several dining options, a fully-equipped fitness center, and tour assistance, catering to solo travelers, couples, and small families.
- Pullman Bali Legian Beach – This upscale hotel features a rooftop infinity pool offering spectacular ocean views alongside exquisitely appointed units equipped with premium amenities such as flat-screen TVs, closets, minibars, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Exceptional facilities like a day spa, fitness center, and two landscaped lagoon pools ensure an unforgettable experience, well-suited for luxury seekers.
Sanur
Recognized as Bali’s oldest beach resort, Sanur boasts a charming coastal setting and is favored for its relaxed lifestyle. It is more expensive than Kuta but more affordable than Seminyak, home to many of Bali’s first hotels and upscale beach resorts. Once a fishing village, this eastern destination offers a blend of contemporary cafes, restaurants, and leisure venues, infused with a rich cultural essence. Notably popular among family travelers and European visitors, Sanur is the venue for the annual significant Kite Festival held in July.
Good for: All types of travelers, particularly families and older visitors.
Other Highlights: Museum Le Mayeur, Bali Beach Golf Course, Bali Safari and Marine Park, and Bali Orchid Garden.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Puri Santrian – Just a minute’s walk from the beach, Puri Santrian features spacious and tastefully decorated guestrooms equipped with amenities like flat-screen TVs, minibars, and lovely views of the lush tropical gardens. Additionally, cooking classes, snorkeling expeditions, and luxurious Balinese spa treatments can be arranged on request, suitable for a wide range of travelers.
- Prama Sanur Beach Bali – Located directly on the golden sands of Sanur Beach, this enchanting property provides a unique beach retreat with two outdoor pools, a full-service spa, a fitness center, and expansive tropical gardens, accommodating various visitors.
- Besakih Beach Hotel – Offering private beach access, Besakih Beach Hotel features well-equipped accommodations with premium amenities including free Wi-Fi, cable TV, minibars, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Daily breakfast is complimentary, appealing to diverse travelers.
Uluwatu
Uluwatu, the most prominent neighborhood in the Bukit Peninsula, features its eponymous cliff-top temple, surrounded by dense tropical greenery inhabited by numerous grey long-tailed macaques. Additionally, the surf breaks in this area are celebrated as some of the finest on Bali’s southern coastline. As the sun sets, the temple grounds become a stunning venue for experiencing the traditional Kecak Fire Dance along with a spectacular sunset.
Good for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Labuan Sait Beach, Suluban Beach and Beach Caves, Garuda Wisnu Kencana, and Bingin Beach.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Villa Hari Indah – Located less than 2 kilometers from Dreamland Beach and Padang Padang Beach, Villa Hari Indah welcomes guests to stay in their well-furnished accommodations and enjoy amenities such as an inviting outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and well-stocked bar. The front desk can assist with arrangements for snorkeling, golfing, windsurfing, and other adventure activities, catering to various travelers.
- PinkCoco Bali – A quick walk from the exquisite Padang Padang coastline, PinkCoco Bali offers tastefully decorated air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned guestrooms that showcase carefully selected Asian furnishings and private balconies with scenic views. Guests can enjoy a delightful complimentary breakfast and spend time at the outdoor pool, suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
- De Sapphire Cliff Villa Uluwatu – With breathtaking sea views, a remarkable outdoor pool, a stunning tropical garden, and a welcoming concierge service, the stylish property presents modern rooms and villas located just a five-minute drive from Padang Padang Beach, ideal for all kinds of visitors.
Lovina
Primarily known for its dolphin-watching opportunities, Lovina, a beach town in northern Bali, serves as an appealing alternative to the crowded and upscale southern beaches like Kuta and Legian. Defined by its black-sand coastline, gentler waves, quaint villages, and a more relaxed nightlife scene, Lovina provides a diverse experience. Kalibukbuk village, located in the heart of Lovina, is a vibrant area featuring authentic seafood eateries and charming cafes.
Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Krisna Funtasticland, Lovina Dolphin Statue, Pondok Wisata Mumbul (Amusement Park), and Dolphin Beach.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Puri Mangga Sea View Resort and Spa – This impressive property located close to Lovina Beach offers guests well-equipped villas and guestrooms furnished with modern amenities. A blend of Balinese and Tuscan design elements can be observed throughout the property. Guests can inquire at the front desk for car rental, airport transfer, laundry services, and childcare options, suitable for a wide range of travelers.
- The Lovina – A short walk from the beach, the Lovina presents luxurious suites and villas equipped with amenities such as plunge pools, terrace areas, well-equipped kitchens (in select rooms), and ensuite bathrooms with bathtubs, suitable for discerning travelers.
- Padmasari Resort Lovina – Situated right on the beautiful Lovina beach, this elegant resort features an outdoor pool with cushioned loungers, modern lodgings adorned with traditional Balinese decor, and a multi-cuisine restaurant featuring Indonesian, Asian, and Western dishes. Dolphin tours and excursions can be coordinated by the hotel staff, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.
