We often hear from people, friends, and family that they'd love to come to Bali but have no idea where to stay.
It’s understandable. Bali is so diverse, and each area has its own vibe. Choosing the wrong spot could make or break your trip. So we made a quick guide to help you make the right decision.
Sanur - Relaxed beach town
Perfect for: Families, peaceseekers
• Serene white sand beaches with gentle waves
• 5km beachfront promenade perfect for walking and cycling
• Family-friendly atmosphere with calm swimming waters
Not for: Vibrant nightlife, big waves for surfing
Canggu - Party surf paradise
Perfect for: Young travelers, digital nomads, surfers
• Trendy cafes and beach clubs at black sand beaches
• Vibrant nightlife and live music scene
• World-class surf breaks for all levels
Not for: Quiet environment, traditional Balinese culture
Ubud - Spiritual heart of Bali
Perfect for: Culture enthusiasts, yogis, nature lovers
• Lush rice terraces and beautiful jungle
• Abundance of vegan cafes and yoga studios
• Art galleries, traditional dance, and craft markets
Not for: Beaches, vibrant nightlife
Kuta - Tourist hub
Perfect for: Party-goers, budget travelers, beginner surfers
• Long stretch of sandy beach with great waves for learning to surf
• Vibrant nightlife with countless bars, clubs, and live music venues
• Affordable accommodations and souvenir shops at every corner
Not for: Peaceful atmosphere, luxury resorts, traditional Balinese culture
Seminyak - Highend beach town
Perfect for: Luxury travelers, shoppers, foodies
• Highend beachfront resorts and hotels
• Plenty designer boutiques and art galleries
• Great restaurants and chic beach clubs with stunning sunset views
Not for: Budget accommodations, quiet beaches, authentic local life
Uluwatu - Cliffside surf town
Perfect for: Luxury travelers, surfers, romantic couples
• Limestone cliffs with beautiful hidden beaches accessible by stairs
• Uluwatu Temple with breathtaking ocean views
• Famous surf breaks and luxurious cliffside villas and resorts
Not for: Budget accommodations, easy beach access
Nusa Dua - Luxurious resort town
Perfect for: Luxury travelers, families, golfers
• Gated resort area with manicured beaches and crystal clear waters
• Highend resorts with private beaches and luxury spas
• Championship golf courses and a wide array of water sports activities nightlife
Not for: Local culture, budget options, lively nightlife scene
Amed - Diver's paradise village
Perfect for: Divers, snorkelers, peace-seekers
• Traditional fishing villages with pebble beaches
• Excellent diving sites including the USS Liberty wreck
• Beautiful sunrise views
Not for: Sandy beaches, extensive nightlife, shopping malls
Singaraja/Lovina - Untouched north
Perfect for: Adventurers, nature lovers, peace-seekers
• Quiet black sand beaches with calm waters for swimming
• Dolphin watching tours at sunrise in traditional boats
• Several waterfalls hidden in lush jungles, perfect for trekking
Not for: Luxury resorts, extensive tourist facilities, busy beaches
Bedugul - Mountain lake area
Perfect for: Nature lovers, photographers, peaceseekers
• Three crater lakes surrounded by lush forests and cool climate
• Floating Ulun Danu temple on Lake Bratan
• Lush botanical gardens and local strawberry farms
Not for: Beaches, warm weather, typical tropical Bali experience
Nusa Penida - Raw island adventure
Perfect for: Adventurers, Instagrammers, nature lovers
• Dramatic landscapes with the famous Kelingking Beach
• Crystal Bay's manta rays and rare mola mola fish
• Treehouse villages and natural infinity pools
Not for: Luxury amenities, well developed roads
Nusa Lembongan - Laidback island life
Perfect for: Surfers, snorkelers, relaxed island lovers
• White Sanduy beaches with turquoise waters
• Mangrove forests perfect for paddleboarding adventures
• Legendary surf breaks and seaweed farms
Not for: Large resorts, busy roads, extensive shopping options
Gili Islands - Tropical paradise islands
Perfect for: Party-goers (Gili T), peace-seekers/honeymooners (Gili Air/Meno)
• Car-free islands with white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters
• Excellent snorkeling with sea turtles right off the beach
• Real tropical island experience
Not for: Motorized vehicles, large supermarkets, Balinese culture
I hope this short overview has helped you. Which of these Bali destinations speaks to you the most? If you have any more questions, feel free to ask them in the comments!
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