Best Places to Stay in Bali – Top Areas & Hotels for Every Budget

No need to keep you waiting. Coming straight to the answer- Southern Bali is truly the best place to stay! But do you know why? The most happening places, such as Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud, Canggu, and Nusa Penida, are located in the southern part of Bali.

Tourists can choose to stay in the middle of Bali’s busy social life or relax in quiet boutique hotels, private villas with pools, or vacation rentals. Backpackers on a budget can find clean, comfortable places to stay, while those who want to feel like royalty can enjoy luxurious options at affordable prices. But the real fun lies in staying in the South Bali.🎉

Southern Bali, with its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, fabulous dining, and luxurious resorts, offers something for every tourist to look for! Whether you want relaxation, adventure, shopping🛍️, or a lively nightlife scene, South Bali has it all.

Before booking, it’s very important to learn about the different places in Bali to plan your Bali itinerary. So, let’s learn about these places in detail-

Accommodation in Bali

Bali has many types of accommodation that are beautiful and affordable. The architecture is often based on nature🍃, combining natural materials and traditional skills like wood carving🪵 and stonework to make you feel connected to nature.

You will see Balinese art, furniture🛋️, and design everywhere, from a small family hotel to a large resort. And that’s what fascinates the tourists.

Balinese people are very friendly and welcoming to travellers. The warm and open culture makes guests feel special and at home. Service provided during the stays is very comforting to its tourists.

In recent years, Bali has added many luxurious private villas and vacation rentals with up to eight bedrooms, a tennis court🎾, a spa, and a gym. Doesn’t it sound interesting? Renting a villa can be cheaper than booking a similar hotel room. Even smaller villas can be affordable.

Bali has lots of fun activities. Families can enjoy kids’ areas, pools, water slides, and beach lounging🏖️. Many resorts also offer spas, massages, shopping, and golf courses for guests to relax. There are also villas and small hotels that cater to digital nomads and remote workers who want to stay for a longer time⏲️. Many of them form friendships and share spaces while working remotely.

For tourists seeking something unique, Bali has boutique hotels that mix local designs with international styles in these areas. It is also a popular place for romantic escapes, with private villas and resorts perfect for couples looking to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

Bali is also one of the top wedding destinations in the world. Its white sand beaches and tropical jungles make it an excellent place for couples to get married or enjoy a honeymoon💏 in a private, comfortable villa.

Why is Southern Bali the Most Happening Place and the Best Area to Stay in Bali?

The first reason why people prefer staying in south bali is because Ngurah Rai (DPS Denpasar) airport is also in the south.

Secondly, South Bali is the most popular and developed area on the island, and it’s where most tourists visit. This area includes busy spots like Kuta, Legian, Canggu, and Seminyak, as well as quieter places like Sanur and Nusa Dua. It also has the Bukit Peninsula, which is excellent for surfing🌊. Also, you can find some of the best snorkelling places here.

The busy areas like Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, and Legian are not known for their cultural attractions, so visitors usually take day trips to see beautiful temples🛕, rice fields, and the countryside or stay for shopping, dining, and nightlife.🛍️

Thirdly, Bali is known for its mesmerising temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, which are found in the southern part of the tourist hotspots. (Also, if you’re interested in Bali’s culture, you should visit Ubud, which is in the centre of the island.)

Fourth, if you like shopping, South Bali has many shopping markets. You can buy the best things in Bali, from souvenirs to fashionable clothing👗 and jewellery,📿 all at great prices. Seminyak is more of a “boutique” than Kuta or Legian, with stylish restaurants, clubs, villas, and shops. Canggu is also popular, but the area can have heavy traffic at times.

Fifth, South Bali is the best place for dining and nightlife. You can enjoy local Indonesian food, as well as international dishes🥗 made by Bali’s top chefs. If you love seafood🍤, Jimbaran Beach offers the freshest options, and places like Kuta and Legian are full of fun crowds.

Sixth, the best beaches in Bali are in the south, with many options for sunbathing and some of the best waves for surfing🌊, perfect for beginners or experienced surfers. So, you can experience some of the adventurous time here.

In South Bali, you can find accommodations for any budget, from basic rooms with just a bed and fan for a few dollars to luxury resorts and private beachfront villas with complete services.

Seminyak

Seminyak is a great place to stay on Bali’s south coast, right next to the lively Kuta area. It is known for its beautiful beach🏖️ and calming atmosphere with a touch of refinement. The town is filled with world-class restaurants, high-end spas, designer boutiques, surf shops, and lifestyle stores. So, don’t you think you would enjoy your stay in this place and love to explore more of it?

Located just north of Kuta and Legian, Seminyak has a more relaxed vibe while still being close to the adventurous side. The beach here is quieter than Kuta, making it a perfect spot for people who want peace. It is also an excellent place to enjoy Bali’s gorgeous sunsets🌇. It is also a top area for food lovers, with a variety of restaurants with delicious dishes from all over the world prepared by some famous chefs.

For shoppers, Seminyak is a paradise. You will find everything from exclusive fashion boutiques to stylish lifestyle shops along the main roads, like Jalan Laksmana and Petitenget Street. You will get everything from trendy clothing to unique accessories that will fit every taste. Plus, Seminyak is known for its luxury spas, giving you the ultimate relaxation experience in beautiful and calming settings.

When it comes to activities, Seminyak has it all. You can enjoy the white sandy beaches, perfect for surfing or simply relaxing by the water. Seminyak Beach is especially popular for surfers, with great waves and stunning ocean views.

Things to do in Seminyak

• Seek Blessing at Pura Petitenget Temple
• Take a refreshing Spa Massage in Seminyak
• Sunbathe and Relax at Seminyak Beach
• Experience Surfing at Echo Beach
• Shop at Seminyak Night Market
• Visit Masceti Temple
• Treat your taste buds at ‘Eat Street’
• Visit the captivating Santo Mikael Church
• Horse Riding
• Scuba Diving
• Visit Pura Masceti

Getting to Seminyak is quite easy. It is just a short drive🚘 from Kuta and Legian. You can take Legian Street or the quicker route via Sunset Street to reach Seminyak. Once you are there, you will have plenty of things to do and see!😍 And that’s the reason Seminyak is considered one of the best places to stay in Bali.

Kuta

Kuta was once a quiet village with a peaceful beach🏖️, but it has now become a lively, popular destination for tourists from all over the world. It is a very happening place, whether it is swimming🏊🏻‍♀️, surfing, or sunbathing by the beach. People walk along the main road in casual clothes, shopping 🛍️or enjoying meals at the many open-air restaurants. In a very casual setting, you can feel the holiday vibe all around when you are in Kuta.😎

Do you know? Back in the 1960s, the only hotel in the area was the Kuta Beach Hotel.

Over time, Kuta grew into a popular location for surfers and backpackers, while the upscale crowd preferred the quieter Sanur village. As more people visited, shops, restaurants, discos🪩, bars, pubs, and hotels🏨, from basic to fancy, popped up along the main road between Kuta and Legian, serving both international and local tourists. And thus, Kuta emerged as a popular destination in Bali.

Things to do in Kuta

• Experience Thrill at Waterbom Waterpark
• Experience the crazy Upside Down World
• Enjoy the Sunset at Kuta Beach
• Explore Kuta Beach Sea Turtle Conservation
• Enjoy a Cultural Performance at Kuta Theatre
• Be a part of Kuta Karnival
• Seek blessing at Vihara Dharmayana Buddhist Temple
• Pay Tribute at The Ground Zero Monument
• Watch the Amphitheatre at Uluwatu Temple
• Shop at Kuta Night Market
• Explore The Underwater World in a Submarine
• Party Hard at Legian Street
• Experience Flying Trapeze
• Take Donut Boat Ride
• Witness the Abandoned Plane
• Play a game of Golf at the New Kuta Golf course
• Visit the Shell Museum
• Snorkelling at Sister Islands

Getting around Kuta is easy and fun! You can walk around or rent a bike🚴🏻‍♂️ or motorcycle to explore the area. Taxis 🚕are readily available to get to Kuta Beach and can be rented by the meter or by the hour. Driving your own car🚘 is not recommended, as parking can be very limited and tricky.

Ubud

The name “Ubud” comes from the Balinese word “Ubad”, which means “medicine,” inspired by the area’s plenty of healing plants. Ubud is considered the best place to stay in Bali, and it is exclusively for nature lovers.

If you have ever seen Bali’s beautiful rice🌾 field terraces on the internet, you can experience them up close in Ubud. It is situated in the central part of Bali. It is surrounded by greenery and peaceful, scenic views.🖼️Walking through the beautiful rice fields and watching women carry fruit offerings to the temples is a peaceful and unforgettable cultural experience.

Ubud is rich in culture, with spectacular views and temples, making it a great escape from busy life. It used to be a small village, but now it’s a growing yet relaxed community. You can enjoy delicious meals at fine restaurants and relax with a spa treatment. It is a place which can take care of both your body and soul.

Things to do in Ubud

• Visit Ubud Monkey forest
• Explore Ubud Celuk Village
• Komaneka Fine Art Gallery
• Pura Tirta Empul
• Shop from Ubud Art Market
• Watch a show at Setia Darma Masks & Puppets House
• Visit The Pura Taman Saraswati Temple
• Enjoy a Cultural night performance at the Royal Palace
• Purify yourself in the Holy Spring Water Temple
• Explore The Agung Rai Museum of Art
• Explore Goa Gajah
• Visit The Blanco Renaissance Museum
• Take a wonderful walk on Campuhan Ridge Walk
• Get a glimpse of history at The Ubud Royal Palace
• Visit Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal
• Visit Puri Lukisan Museum
• Visit The Neka Art Museum
• Explore Guwang Art Market
• Gunung Kawi
• Yoga Barn- Yoga Retreat
• Bali Bird & Reptile Park

[Note: Ubud is a small town, so you can easily explore on foot, by bicycle🚴🏻‍♀️, or by motorbike. Keep in mind that Ubud’s hilly terrain can be a bit tricky, so it’s a good idea to ask locals which spots are best explored by foot, bike, motorbike, or car🚘].

Ubud is a wonderful place for spiritual renewal, offering both excitement and tranquillity. You can get to Ubud quickly from anywhere in Bali. If you are coming directly from the airport, you can take a prepaid taxi (though it might be pricey) or opt for regular taxis or rental cars. Public buses also go to Ubud.

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is the largest of the Nusa Islands trio🏝️ (which also includes Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan). It has become a popular spot for travellers from around the world. Despite its growing popularity, Nusa Penida still maintains its natural beauty and peaceful vibe, making it a great place to escape the crowds.

Nusa Penida is located just 25 kilometres from Bali, Indonesia’s most famous tourist destination. While it’s smaller than Bali, getting there is easy, with a 45-minute speedboat ride or ferry from Bali. The islands are connected by scenic bridges, offering an ideal destination for those looking for adventure or a quiet tropical getaway.

Nusa Penida is a fantastic place to stay in Bali due to its astonishing natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to the mainland. The island is home to some of Bali’s most iconic landscapes, including dramatic cliffs, serene beaches like Kelingking Beach🏖️, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming🏊🏻‍♀️ and snorkelling.

Nusa Penida offers a quieter, more relaxed environment compared to the bustling areas of Bali like Seminyak or Kuta, making it ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful escape. It is the best place to stay in Bali for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts.

Additionally, the island provides a range of affordable accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range resorts, allowing visitors to enjoy a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Its proximity to Bali- just a short boat ride from Sanur or Padangbai- means you can easily explore the island while remaining close to Bali’s other attractions.

Things to do in Nusa Penida

• Visit Bubu Beach
• Angel’s Billabong Natural Infinity Pool
• Kelingking Beach
• Temple Pura Puncak Mundi
• The Banah Cliffs
• Pura Dalem Ped
• Tembeling Beach
• Pasir Uug Beach (Broken Beach)

Nusa Penida is also known for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, diving, and exploring waterfalls and caves. The island is less touristy than other Bali hotspots, giving you a more authentic and untouched experience.

Canggu

Canggu Beach, ranked 39th in CNN’s “World’s 100 Best Beaches,” is one of the most popular places to stay in Bali. Located in the village of Canggu, near Legian Beach in North Kuta, Canggu is famous for its long stretch of black sand and amazing surf.

In 2004, it hosted the Indonesia Surfing Championship (ISC) thanks to its powerful waves and stunning shoreline. On the other side of the waves, you will find lush green rice paddies, where birds🐦 fly over or rest, creating a beautiful and unique scene that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Canggu is also known for its incredible sunsets🌇. While enjoying the view, don’t miss the opportunity to try barbecued corn🌽 from a beachside vendor. Despite being a popular destination, Canggu has managed to maintain a rural feel, offering a taste of the traditional Balinese village life.

It is just a 25-minute drive from the famous Tanah Lot temple and about 20 minutes from Seminyak, where you can experience vibrant nightlife and shopping. The area is growing, and there are now plenty of hotels, villas, restaurants, and cafes to make your stay comfortable.

Located about 18 km from Denpasar, Canggu Beach is a 45-minute drive from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport. If you are coming from Kuta Beach, it is just a 20-minute drive to the village of Kerobokan; then a left turn will lead you to the rice fields🌾 that meet the ocean- a sign that you have reached Canggu. It’s recommended to either hire a car🚘 or arrange an airport pick-up from your hotel for convenience.

Things to do in Canggu

• Indulge in the best brunches in Bali
• Take a Balinese cooking class at Villa Canggu
• Watch the sunset on Batu Bolong Beach
• Relax at a beautiful beach club
• Enjoy a hilltop drink at The Beach Love
• Get your heart racing on the G-Swing
• Go Surfing
• Canggu Beach
• Batu Bolong Beach
• Berawa Beach
• Taman Segara Madu Waterpark
• Canggu Rice Terraces
• Go souvenir shopping at Love Anchor
• Take away a unique memento at Eye Sea Studio
• Go coffee tasting at Blacklist Coffee Roasters

Conclusion

Indians find Bali among the best neighbouring destinations because of its cultural resemblance and similarity. Additionally, Bali has a diverse range of destinations to suit different preferences, making it difficult to pinpoint just one “best” place to stay.

Seminyak is ideal for those seeking vibrant nightlife, luxurious resorts, and high-end shopping🛍️. For those interested in cultural exploration and breathtaking nature, Ubud provides a perfect balance of lush landscapes, art, and traditional Balinese culture. For surf enthusiasts,🌊 Canggu combines excellent waves with a trendy, relaxed vibe.

Lastly, Nusa Penida is excellent for those seeking exclusive beachfront resorts and relaxation. Ultimately, the best place to stay in Bali depends on your individual preferences, whether you’re after adventure, culture, relaxation, or luxury. So, it’s ideal to decide on your best stay in Bali. In case you are confused and need help, feel free to reach out to us, we would be happy to serve you.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Places to Stay in Bali

What are the best places to stay in Bali for nature lovers?

Nusa Penida is the best place for nature lovers to stay in Bali as it is surrounded by natural beauty and a peaceful vibe, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Due to its small size, dramatic cliffs, and serene beaches, people prefer staying here. Outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and exploring waterfalls and caves add a cherry on the cake experience to its tourists.

What’s the best place for honeymoon couples to stay in Bali?

Bali is perfect for a romantic escape. For couples, consider:

• The Mulia, Nusa Dua: Exclusive and elegant with private beaches and luxurious rooms.
• Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan: In Ubud, surrounded by rice terraces, offering privacy and serenity.
• Kayumanis Ubud: A romantic hideaway with private villas and personalised services.
• The St. Regis Bali Resort: A world-class resort with oceanfront villas and fine dining.
• Bulgari Resort Bali: An exclusive and intimate experience in Uluwatu with stunning cliff views.
• Anantara Uluwatu Resort: A breathtaking resort offering private pool villas and ocean views.

Where are the best places for families to stay in Bali?

For a family-friendly vacation in Bali, look for resorts with great amenities for kids and proximity to attractions:

• Club Med Bali: Located in Nusa Dua, with an all-inclusive experience for families.
• The Westin Resort Nusa Dua: Offers a kids’ club and family-friendly activities.
• Bali Dynasty Resort, South Kuta: Known for its family-oriented services, water slides, and entertainment.

What is the best place to stay in Kuta, Bali?

Kuta is a lively beach town with lots to do. Great stays here include:

• Hard Rock Hotel Bali: Famous for its fun vibe, family-friendly pools, and live entertainment.
• The Stones Hotel: A luxurious resort with spacious rooms and a beautiful beach club.
• Bali Garden Beach Resort: Offers a relaxing beachfront location with direct access to Kuta Beach.

What are the best places to stay in Ubud, Bali?

Ubud is ideal for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Great options include:

• Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan: A luxury resort nestled in the rice fields, offering unforgettable views.
• Hanging Gardens of Bali: Known for its stunning infinity pool with jungle views.
• Alaya Resort Ubud: A blend of modern luxury and traditional Balinese design in the heart of Ubud.

What are the best affordable places to stay in Bali?

Bali has many affordable yet comfortable stays, such as:

• The Tukad Villa, Seminyak: A budget-friendly, private villa option.
• Puri Santrian, Sanur: A lovely beachfront hotel offering great value for money.
• Legian Beach Hotel: An affordable beachfront option in Legian with a relaxed atmosphere.

Where to stay in Bali for families?

Families should look for resorts with activities for children, pools, and easy access to attractions. Consider:

• Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali: An all-inclusive, family-friendly resort in Nusa Dua.
• Maya Ubud Resort & Spa: Offers family suites and is surrounded by nature.
• Bali Garden Beach Resort, Kuta: An excellent spot for families, located near the beach and with family-friendly amenities.

Where to stay in South Bali?

South Bali offers many diverse options, from luxury resorts to budget hotels. Popular areas include:

• Seminyak: For vibrant nightlife and shopping.
• Nusa Dua: For luxury resorts and family-friendly beaches.
• Jimbaran: Known for its seafood restaurants and serene beaches.

Where to stay in Bali for the first time?

For first-time visitors to Bali, the following areas are recommended:

• Seminyak: For shopping, dining, and nightlife, with easy beach access.
• Kuta: A lively area perfect for exploring the beach and local markets.
• Ubud: For nature lovers who want to experience Bali’s cultural heart and stunning landscapes.