Planning a trip to Bali and unsure where to stay? From north to south, passing through the center, east and west, we share the best places to sleep in Bali to discover all the wonders of the Island of the Gods.

What You Should Know Before Choosing Accommodation in Bali

Though relatively small (140 km long, 80 km wide and 5,780 km² in area), the island of Bali is not easily explored. That's because you often need to travel considerable distances to reach the island's many points of interest. Moreover, the most central cities are often plagued by traffic and congestion.

That's why it's best to plan your itinerary in advance. If you have time, we recommend choosing several accommodations located across different parts of the island so you can see all the must-sees on the Island of the Gods. Not staying long? In that case, focus on one or two central destinations instead.

Where to Stay in South Bali?

Kuta and Seminyak, Playground for Party Lovers

Kuta and Seminyak are located in the south of Bali, in the island's most developed areas. While you'll find beautiful beaches and plenty of activities here (including surfing), these destinations are favored by revelers from around the world. Moreover, it's ideal if you're in the mood to party. On the other hand, skip these areas if you're seeking authenticity and tranquility.

Bukit Peninsula, Southern Serenity

Bukit Peninsula is the southernmost point of Bali. Unlike cities around Denpasar and the airport (like Kuta), you'll find rather peaceful places here. Your stay on the Bukit Peninsula might include: surfing lessons and practice, lounging on the beach, hiking along clifftop coastal trails, visiting Pura Luhur temple, watching kecak performances (traditional Balinese dance), and savoring sunsets...

Among the towns where you can find accommodation on the Bukit Peninsula, we especially recommend Jimbaran and Uluwatu.

Canggu, Bohemian Vibes and Surf Spot

With its beachfront bars, trendy restaurants, yoga centers and hippie boutiques, Canggu has become the bohemian haven for travelers. It's one of the best places to surf in Bali and to watch the sunset. The town is also located near one of Bali's most iconic temples: Tanah Lot.

Where to Stay in Central Bali?

Ubud, the Cultural Heart of the Island

Considered Bali's cultural capital, Ubud features numerous temples (Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati, Ubud Royal Palace, Goa Gajah temple...), museums and galleries (Neka Art Museum, Puri Lukisan Museum...) as well as several traditional dance and music performance venues. You'll also find many yoga centers, the monkey forest and a multitude of restaurants and bars.

Ideally positioned, Ubud is also close to:

• The Tegalalang rice terraces (located 20 minutes away),
• The Tirta Empul temple and sacred springs (located 30 minutes away),
• Numerous waterfalls (Tegenungan waterfall, Tukad Cepung waterfall, Tibumana Waterfall...).

As you can see, Ubud is an excellent base for discovering Bali's cultural sites and natural gems. It's therefore the ideal place for a first visit or a short stay in Bali.

Where to Stay in North Bali?

Lake Batur, Gateway to Many Hikes

Located in the caldera of the famous Batur volcano, the lake by the same name is Bali's largest. It's the ideal place to hike, particularly to climb the Mount Batur. The climb is typically done at night so you can enjoy the sunrise. From its elevation of 1,717 meters, Mount Batur offers an exceptional panorama of the lake and the surrounding region. After the climb, hikers can relax in the lake's hot springs.

Most accommodations are located along the lake's shores and at the foot of the volcano. On the shores you'll also find the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, an important Shivaite Hindu temple.

Lovina Beach, Black Sand Beaches and Dolphins

Located on the coast in the north of Bali, Lovina Beach is renowned for its black sand beaches, coral reefs and dolphins. Beyond relaxation, dolphin watching, snorkeling and diving, Lovina Beach has a few attractions of interest such as Singsing waterfall, Banjar hot springs and Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist monastery. It's the ideal spot for a family getaway or to escape the crowds.

Munduk, A Little Slice of Paradise in the Heart of Nature

A small mountain village nestled in the heart of lush nature, Munduk attracts tourists for its tranquility and extraordinary nature, with terraced rice fields, waterfalls and agricultural plantations (particularly coffee, cocoa and clove plantations). A true slice of paradise, Munduk village is recommended to all travelers seeking authenticity and off-the-beaten-path discoveries.

Where to Stay in East Bali?

Amed, A Diver's Paradise

Located between sea and volcanoes on Bali's east coast, Amed is a small fishing village where life is good. Beyond its charm, the village is known as a prime departure point for scuba diving and snorkeling.

The most famous dive site is the wreck of the USAT Liberty at Tulamben, a former cargo ship torpedoed by the Japanese in 1942. Originally beached on Tulamben's shore, the freighter eventually sank in the water following the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung. Located just 30 meters from the beach and at shallow depth, all divers and snorkelers can explore it.

Sidemen, A Haven of Peace in the Heart of Rice Fields

Need to recharge in the heart of nature? Seeking absolute tranquility? Head to Sidemen, a small mountain village in the heart of the rice fields with Mount Agung as a backdrop. Beyond walks through the rice fields, the village is known for its silver jewelry-making workshops.

A little over 30 minutes' drive away you'll find the Pura Besakih, one of the must-see temples to visit in Bali. Commonly called the "mother temple," it is Bali's largest and most sacred temple.

Still undiscovered by many tourists, this is the place to stay to enjoy nature and peace while remaining close to several major sites.

Where to Stay in West Bali?

Pemuteran for Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration

If you're seeking true cultural immersion, away from mass tourism, we recommend venturing to the northwest of Bali and staying in Pemuteran. A small fishing village with discreet authentic charm, Pemuteran attracts very few travelers due to its distance from the rest of the island. Yet this region promises wonderful discoveries.

Travelers can go trekking in primary forests or in the West Bali National Park, visit the region's temples (such as Pura Pulaki, Pura Pabean and Pura Melanting), contribute to saving turtles with the Turtle Hatchery Project run by reef Seen Divers' Resort, and dive around Menjangan Island...

Where to Stay on Bali's Neighboring Islands?

Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, Exploration and Diving with Manta Rays

Located 30 km from Bali, the islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan offer a trip within a trip. Say goodbye to Bali's characteristic rice terraces and welcome landscapes dominated by the ocean's blues, mangrove forests and steep cliffs. It's from these islands that you can dive to meet manta rays. Both islands are easily explored by scooter or even on foot. To access them, you can take a boat from the town of Sanur, on Bali's east side.

The Gili Islands and Their Paradisiacal Beaches

Contrary to popular belief, Bali has very few truly paradisiacal beaches. If you're looking for white sand beaches with turquoise waters, we suggest staying on the Gili Islands. Located off the coast of Bali and Lombok, the Gili Islands consist of 3 islets: Gili Trawangan (the most lively), Gili Meno (the most wild and isolated) and Gili Air (the most family-friendly).

Where to Choose Accommodation in Bali: Key Takeaways:

As you can see, Bali is brimming with many sites of interest scattered all over the island. That's why it's best to plan a loop and book accommodations accordingly for each of your stops. If you'd rather not rush or don't have much time, we suggest concentrating on the Ubud region.

There are many types of accommodation in Bali. Know that it's quite easy to find lodging and the value for money is nearly unbeatable.

Among the different types of accommodation, you'll have a choice of:

• Hotels: Whether bungalows or rooms in charming or luxury hotels, you can choose a hotel to enjoy all the comfort and tourist services of this type of facility. Note that there are many hotels offering services dedicated to honeymoon trips.
• Villa rentals: If you want to enjoy an intimate setting (with family, partner or friends), you'll find many private villas for rent, often with pools or views of the beach or rice fields. This is the most expensive type of accommodation you'll find in Bali.
• Losmens, guesthouses, homestays or bed & breakfasts: For a stay with local residents, we recommend choosing this type of accommodation. Beyond living an experience close to the locals, it's one of the cheapest options. Often, breakfast is included and the services are on par with those offered in hotels.
• Home stay: If you want to experience true immersion in Balinese culture, there's no better experience than sleeping at a family's home in a traditional Balinese house.

Do you need help finding accommodation for your stay in Bali? Feel free to reach out to us for expert advice!

Florine Dergelet