Where to stay in Bali? Guide to the best areas 🌴
Bali is an island of immense variety – from lively beach towns and surf spots to tranquil rice paddies and cultural villages. Where to stay in Bali depends entirely on the type of trip you want to take . In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most popular areas, so you can easily choose what suits you best.
Seminyak – Style, beach and restaurants
Suitable for: Couples, groups of friends, first-time travelers
Known for trendy beach clubs, great restaurants and beautiful beaches, Seminyak offers a comfortable and social Bali experience with easy access to shopping, spas and sunsets.
Highlights:
- Beach clubs like Potato Head and Ku De Ta
- Good selection of hotels and villas
- Lively but more sophisticated than Kuta
Canggu – Surf, cafe culture and laidback vibe
Suitable for: Digital nomads, surfers, young adults
Canggu has become one of the most popular areas in Bali, with its surf beaches, hip cafes and yoga studios – perfect for an active and modern holiday.
Highlights:
- Surfing at Batu Bolong and Echo Beach
- Yoga, exercise and healthy eating
- Social and international atmosphere
Ubud – Culture, nature and tranquility
Suitable for: Culture lovers, couples, wellness trips
Located in the middle of the island, Ubud is Bali's cultural heart. Surrounded by rice fields, jungle and temples, the area offers yoga, spas and authentic experiences.
Highlights:
- Rice terraces and waterfalls
- Art, markets and temples
- Perfect for peace and relaxation
Uluwatu – Cliffs, beaches and spectacular views
Suitable for: Surfers, couples, luxury travelers
Uluwatu is located in the south of Bali and is known for its dramatic cliffs, white beaches and exclusive resorts. A quieter area with stunning scenery.
Highlights:
- World-class surfing
- Amazing sunsets
- Calm and exclusive atmosphere
Nusa Dua – Family-friendly and comfortable
Suitable for: Families, first-time travelers
Nusa Dua offers large resorts, quiet beaches and high standards. The area is tidy, safe and well-suited for families.
Highlights:
- Child-friendly beaches
- All-inclusive hotels
- A short distance from the airport
Lovina – Quiet Bali in the north
Suitable for: Adventurous people, those who want to get away from the crowds
Known for its black sand beach, dolphin tours and slower pace, Lovina is a great choice for those who want to experience a more local side of Bali.
Highlights:
- Early morning dolphin safari
- Less tourism
- Authentic atmosphere
Our tip 💡
Many people choose to combine several areas on one trip, for example:
- Ubud + beach (Seminyak, Canggu or Uluwatu)
- South Bali + a quiet end in the north
At ReadySetIsland, we help you put together the right combination based on your wishes, travel length and budget.