Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” offers a mix of vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Choosing where to stay in Bali can feel overwhelming with so many incredible locations.
From bustling spiritual hubs to serene rice paddies, volcanic highlands, and world-class surfing beaches, each area has its own unique charm. Based on our personal travels and local insights, this guide will help you decide where to stay in Bali for the perfect trip.
👉 If you don’t feel confident enough to rent a scooter (totally understandable with Bali’s traffic and driving style), you can always hire a private driver for a day or more, or book organized tours through platforms like Klook or GetYourGuide, which are very popular in Asia.
👉 For even more essential advice on things like cash and avoiding Bali Belly, be sure to check out our other blog post – Bali Tips You’ll Be Glad You Knew Before Your Trip.
*Heads up, fellow travelers! Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase or book an activity through them, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We only recommend things we absolutely love and believe will enhance your adventure. Your support helps us keep this site going, so thank you for being part of our journy!
Ubud: The Heart of Bali
For many travelers, Ubud is the spiritual and cultural soul of Bali. Nestled among lush rice paddies and jungle landscapes, Ubud is full of life, art, and wellness retreats. If you want to immerse yourself in Bali’s culture, this is the place to stay.
Best for: Culture, foodies, and easy access to Bali’s inland adventures.
Highlights:
- Waterfalls: Tegenungan, Tibumana, Kanto Lampo, Tukad Cepung, Suwat, Goa Rang Reng, Goa Raja
- Temples: Goa Gajah, Tirta Empul, Taman Ayun
- Holistic wellness retreats and yoga classes
- Traditional Balinese dance performances
Things to Do:
- Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest
- Wander through art galleries and local markets
- Take a cooking class or enjoy a Balinese massage
- Visit Tegallalang Rice Terraces (though we preferred other terraces nearby for a more serene experience)
Day Trips:
Here some of the best rated tours from Ubud we could find:
Dining:
- Ubud boasts an incredible culinary scene. Don’t miss unique local gems like Wedja and Taman Dedari for authentic Balinese flavors.
👉 If you’re currently planning your trip, check out our Active 10 Day Bali Itinerary for a full guide on how to explore the island
Practical Tips:
- Stay at least 3 days to explore Ubud properly and do day trips.
- Traffic can be heavy – rent a scooter if you feel confident enough or hire a driver for longer trips.
- Many day tours are available: Mount Batur sunrise trekking, waterfall hopping in the north, Besakih & Tirta Empul full-day cultural tours.
- Markets and cafes are busiest in the morning; plan early visits for a quieter experience.
Our Take: Stay at least 3 days to explore Ubud and its surroundings fully. The town is lively, increasingly touristy, and traffic can be heavy, but it’s the best place to experience Bali’s culture, art, and cuisine.
Seminyak, Kuta, & Canggu: Beach Bliss & Bustling Nights
If your ideal Bali holiday involves surfing, beach clubs, and nightlife, the southwestern coast is where to stay in Bali. Seminyak, Kuta, and Canggu offer continuous stretches of beaches, cafes, and nightlife.
Best for: Beach holidays, parties, and social atmosphere.
Seminyak: Upscale boutiques, stylish beach clubs, and fine dining. Slightly more refined and quieter than Kuta.
Kuta: Long sandy beaches, beginner surf breaks, budget accommodations, lively nightlife. Can be extremely crowded.
Canggu: Bohemian surf town, burgeoning cafe culture, yoga studios, and an energetic nightlife scene. Popular with digital nomads and surfers.
👉 Wondering what to eat between temple visits and beach days? Our Bali Food guide has you covered with the island’s tastiest bites and drinks.
Highlights:
- Surfing lessons and world-class breaks
- Sunset cocktails at beach clubs
- Trendy restaurants and shopping
- Lively nightlife and parties
Practical Tips:
- Expect crowds and traffic – avoid peak hours if possible.
- Accommodation ranges from luxury resorts to boutique hotels, but prices are higher.
- Local culture is minimal; this is mostly for tourists.
Here some of the most interesting & best rated tours in the beach areas we could find:
Our Take: These areas are heavily touristy, more expensive, and offer limited local cultural immersion. Traffic can be intense. Best for those prioritizing beach life and social activities. Stay 2–3 days if this is your focus.
Uluwatu: Surfer’s Paradise & Cliffside Views
Perched on the southern cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is dramatic, picturesque, and ideal for surfers and those seeking breathtaking ocean views.
Best for: Surfing, cliffside views, cultural shows, and sunsets.
Highlights:
- Surf breaks: Uluwatu Beach, Padang Padang
- Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance at sunset
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue and Tanah Barak Cliffs
- Hidden beaches: Dreamland, Balangan, Nyang Nyang
Things to Do:
- Surf or enjoy beginner lessons
- Relax at cliffside cafés or restaurants
- Watch the Kecak dance at sunset
- Explore less-crowded beaches nearby
Practical Tips:
- 2–3 days is ideal for beaches, surfing, and temple visits.
- Watch out for monkeys – they can be aggressive, stealing glasses, bottles and even phones!
- Traffic is moderate to high; a scooter is useful for exploring.
Here some of the most interesting & best rated tours in Uluwatu we could find:
Our Take: Stay 2–3 days. Uluwatu is touristy but less so than Canggu. Traffic can be heavy, and monkeys near the temple are aggressive. European-style restaurants are abundant.
Sidemen: Tranquil Rice Terraces & Local Charm
Sidemen is a peaceful valley in eastern Bali, perfect for travelers seeking tranquility, rice fields, and authentic local experiences.
Best for: Relaxation, photography, and authentic local vibes.
Highlights:
- Stunning rice terraces (our favorite, even better than Tegallalang!)
- Traditional village life and local crafts
- Extremely peaceful and quiet
Things to Do:
- Rice field trekking and village walks
- Traditional weaving workshops
- Balinese massages and cooking classes
Nearby Attractions:
- Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung Water Palaces
- Amed for diving/snorkeling
- Besakih Temple and Lempuyang Temple
Practical Tips:
- 1–2 nights recommended to enjoy the calm and explore the area.
- Walk or rent a scooter to explore rice terraces and villages.
- Sunrise views are amazing – don’t miss it!
Here some of the most interesting & best rated tours in Sidemen we could find:
Our Take: Stay 1–2 nights. We loved Embang Homestay for its amazing service, friendly hosts, delicious food, and unbeatable views.
Kintamani: Volcanic Majesty & Coffee Culture
Kintamani is in Bali’s central highlands, offering cooler temperatures, volcanic landscapes, and some of the best coffee on the island.
Best for: Nature lovers, trekking, and volcanic landscapes.
Highlights:
- Mount Batur (active volcano)
- Lake Batur
- Coffee plantations and tasting experiences
Things to Do:
- Sunrise trek to Mount Batur
- Visit local coffee plantations and taste region-specific coffees
- Explore Penglipuran Traditional Village
Practical Tips:
- Stay 2 days: one for trekking, one for relaxing and exploring villages.
- Book sunrise trekking early; the trail can get busy.
- Try local coffee – it’s some of the best in Bali.
Here some of the most interesting & best rated tours in Kintamani we could find:
Our Take: Stay 2 days: one for trekking and one to relax with panoramic views. We absolutely loved Tegal Sari Cabins for their unbelievable volcano views, insane sunrise, modern rooms, and welcoming staff.
Munduk: Northern Waterfalls & Misty Mountains
Nestled in the cool, misty mountains of northern Bali, Munduk is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking lush landscapes and spectacular waterfalls. If cascading water and serene vistas are on your Bali wishlist, consider Munduk when deciding where to stay in Bali.
Best for: Hikers, waterfall hunters, and nature lovers.
Highlights:
- Sekumpul Waterfall (Bali’s largest)
- Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
- Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple on Lake Bratan
- Twin Lakes (Buyan and Tamblingan)
- Handara Gate
Things to Do:
- Hike through waterfalls and plantations
- Explore coffee and clove plantations
- Enjoy cooler weather and serene surroundings
Practical Tips:
- Stay 2–3 days to explore all waterfalls and lakes.
- A scooter is ideal to reach hidden waterfalls.
- Very local area – few tourists and friendly locals.
Here some of the most interesting & best rated tours in Munduk we could find:
Our Take: Stay 2–3 days to explore waterfalls and mountains. Munduk is very local, with friendly people and generally less traffic than the south.
Jatiluwih: UNESCO-Protected Rice Paddies
Jatiluwih offers some of the most stunning and expansive rice terraces in Bali, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is where to stay in Bali if you want to be surrounded by the island’s agricultural heart and experience unparalleled natural beauty.
Best for: Photography, rice terrace trekking, and quiet mornings.
Highlights:
- Vast emerald rice fields
- 4 trekking routes suitable for full-day exploration
Things to Do:
- Trek through rice terraces
- Capture sunrise over the paddies
- Experience peaceful local village life
Practical Tips:
- 1 day is enough to explore fully.
- Best to visit early morning for sunrise and minimal crowds.
Here some of the most interesting & best rated tours around Jatiwulih we could find:
Our Take: 1 day is enough. We stayed at Santya Lodge and were incredibly happy with the amazing sunrise directly over the rice fields, the serene environment, and the local charm.
Other Fantastic Areas to Consider
Amed (East Bali)
- Excellent diving and snorkeling, vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks (USAT Liberty), black sand beaches, relaxed fishing village vibe.
- Scuba diving, snorkeling, freediving, explore local villages, enjoy fresh seafood, watch traditional salt farming.
- Local restaurants, calm atmosphere, fewer tourists
- 2–3 days recommended for diving enthusiasts or those seeking a quiet beach escape. Amed is a top choice for where to stay in Bali for underwater adventures.
Lovina (North Bali)
- Dolphin watching tours at sunrise, black sand beaches, calm waters, hot springs, quieter and less developed than the south.
- Dolphin spotting, snorkeling, visit Banjar Hot Springs, explore nearby waterfalls.
- 1–2 days recommended, ideal for families or those looking for a peaceful beach experience away from the crowds.
Nusa Islands (Penida, Lembongan, Ceningan)
- Island adventure off Bali’s coast
- Dramatic cliffscapes (Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida), crystal-clear waters, incredible snorkeling and diving (Manta Point), untouched natural beauty, laid-back island vibes.
- Explore iconic viewpoints, swim with manta rays, relax on pristine beaches, cliff jumping, diving, snorkeling.
- At least 2 days recommended; perfect for cliff photos and snorkeling
- Ferries can be rough – plan transportation in advance
Other areas you might consider:
Our Recommended Areas for an Authentic Bali Experience
For local culture, traditions, food, and natural beauty (avoiding extreme crowds), we recommend:
- Ubud – 3+ days
- Sidemen – 1–2 nights
- Kintamani – 2 days
- Munduk – 2–3 days
- Jatiluwih – 1 day
- Uluwatu – 2–3 days
No matter where to stay in Bali, the island offers unforgettable adventures, stunning landscapes, and magical cultural experiences. Choose the areas that match your interests and get ready to be enchanted!