If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, choosing the best place to stay in Bali can make or break your holiday. Bali has something for everyone jungle retreats, beach resorts, surf towns, luxury villas, and peaceful island escapes.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best places to stay in Bali, Indonesia, based on your travel style, budget, and purpose of visit whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, family, digital nomad, or backpacker.
How to Choose the Best Place to Stay in Bali
Before picking a location, ask yourself:
- Do I want beaches or jungle?
- Nightlife or peace?
- Luxury or budget?
- Resort stay or local experience?
Different areas in Bali suit different types of travelers. Here’s the breakdown.
1. Ubud – Best for Culture, Nature & Wellness
Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by rice terraces, waterfalls, and temples. If you’re into yoga, wellness, art, and nature, this is one of the best places to stay in Bali Indonesia.
Why Stay in Ubud?
- Lush jungle views and rice fields
- Famous yoga retreats and wellness centers
- Art markets and traditional Balinese culture
- Great cafés and vegan food scene
Best Places to Stay in Ubud Bali
Budget:
- In Da Lodge
- Teba House
- Puji Bungalows
Mid-Range:
- Ubud Village Hotel
- Green Field Hotel & Restaurant
- Komaneka at Rasa Sayang
Luxury:
- Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
- The Kayon Jungle Resort
- Viceroy Bali
📌 If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Ubud Bali, choose areas like Penestanan, Sayan, or close to Ubud Palace for easy access to attractions.
2. Canggu – Best for Digital Nomads & Surf Lovers
Canggu is trendy, young, and energetic. It’s one of the best places to stay in Bali for those who love surfing, coworking spaces, and vibrant cafés.
Why Stay in Canggu?
- Surf beaches
- Café culture
- Coworking hubs like Dojo & BWork
- Lively nightlife
Best Places to Stay in Canggu
Budget: Kos One Hostel, The Farm Hostel
Mid-Range: The Slow, Eastin Ashta
Luxury: Como Uma Canggu, Hotel Tugu Bali
Best sub-areas: Batu Bolong, Berawa, and Echo Beach.
3. Seminyak – Best for First-Time Visitors
If you want shopping, restaurants, beach clubs, and central access, Seminyak is often considered the best place to stay in Bali Indonesia for first-timers.
Why Stay in Seminyak?
- Beach clubs like Potato Head & Ku De Ta
- Great dining options
- Close to airport and other attractions
Best Places to Stay in Seminyak
- The Legian Bali
- Courtyard by Marriott Seminyak
- Alila Seminyak
4. Kuta – Best for Budget Travelers
Kuta is affordable and located near the airport. It’s one of the best places to stay in Bali Indonesia for short stays or budget-friendly trips.
Why Stay in Kuta?
- Cheap accommodation
- Easy airport access
- Shopping and nightlife
5. Uluwatu – Best for Cliffs, Surf & Sunsets
Located on the Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu offers stunning cliffside views and surf beaches.
Why Stay in Uluwatu?
- Blue Point, Padang Padang & Bingin beaches
- Stunning luxury villas
- Famous sunset spots
Best Places to Stay in Uluwatu
- Radisson Blu Uluwatu
- Suarga Padang Padang
- Uluwatu Surf Villas
6. Nusa Dua – Best for Luxury & Family Resorts
If you want a resort-style vacation, Nusa Dua is one of the best places to stay in Bali Indonesia.
Why Stay in Nusa Dua?
- All-inclusive luxury resorts
- Very safe and clean beaches
- Family-friendly environment
7. Sanur – Best for Relaxed Beach Holidays
Sanur is calm and perfect for families or older travelers.
Why Stay in Sanur?
- Quiet beaches and walking paths
- Great sunrise views
- Close to boat ferries for Nusa Islands
8. Amed – Best for Diving & Peace
Amed is located in East Bali and is ideal if you want to escape crowds.
Why Stay in Amed?
- Excellent diving and snorkeling
- Views of Mount Agung
- Totally relaxed vibe
9. Nusa Islands – Island Escape from Bali
The Nusa Islands are some of the best places to stay near Bali, Indonesia.
Nusa Lembongan
Best for beach lovers and chill travelers.
Nusa Penida
Best for adventure and dramatic landscapes.
Nusa Ceningan
Best for quiet, slow travel.
10. Lombok & Gili Islands – Alternative to Bali
If Bali feels crowded, consider:
- Lombok: Less touristy, beautiful beaches
- Gili Islands: No cars, white sand beaches, crystal-clear water
Quick Guide: Best Place to Stay in Bali Based on Travel Type
| Travel Type | Best Area |
| First-Time Visitors | Seminyak |
| Cultural Seekers | Ubud |
| Digital Nomads | Canggu |
| Luxury Travelers | Nusa Dua |
| Budget Travelers | Kuta |
| Surf Lovers | Uluwatu |
| Divers | Amed |
| Island Hopper | Nusa Islands |
Final Thoughts: Which Is the Best Place to Stay in Bali?
The best place to stay in Bali depends on what you want from your trip.
- Want nature and peace? → Ubud
- Want beaches and cafes? → Canggu
- Want luxury resorts? → Nusa Dua
- Want culture and jungle? → Ubud
If you’re still unsure, combine two places:
👉 3 days in Ubud + 3 days in Seminyak or Canggu.
That gives you the perfect balance of jungle, beach, and culture.
