Where to Stay in Bali: 10 Best Areas & Hotels

Although there are over 17,000 beautiful islands in Indonesia, Bali is by far the most popular. Also known as the ‘Island of the Gods’, this place is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, warm temperatures, and crystal clear waters.

However, choosing where to stay in Bali can be difficult as there are so many awesome areas on the island.

To help you with your decision, this guide will break down the best locations to stay in Bali, the pros and cons of each area, and the top hotel recommendations for every budget. So, let’s find the area most suited to you! 

*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

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Overview of Where to Stay in Bali

Bali is part of Indonesia’s huge archipelago and is one of the most visited destinations in Asia. 

Although at first glance it may seem like a small island, in reality, Bali is pretty big: the distance is 145 km (90 miles) from west to east and 85 km (53 miles) from north to south. Apart from the main island, the Nusa Islands (Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida) also belong to Bali.

Basically, you can divide Bali into 6 main areas:

  • South Bali – This is the most touristic part of the island where you’ll find gorgeous beaches, luxurious beach resorts, and fancy restaurants. The most popular towns to stay in are Canggu, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Kuta, and Uluwatu.
  • Central Bali – If you head further inland you’ll come across the cultural hotspot of Ubud. This part of the island is home to many temples and rice fields, and you’ll find the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali in this area as well.
  • East Bali – The east part of the island is dominated by two volcanos, Mount Agung and Mount Batur. You’ll also find many beautiful rice fields here, as well as some of the oldest villages in Bali. You can visit East Bali as a day trip from Ubud or you can decide to stay in Sidemen, Candidasa, or Amed.
  • North Bali – Although the northern part of the island is much less frequented and visited by tourists, it has so much to offer! The climate is very different from the south of the island and the area is dotted with misty mountains and cloudy lakes. If you want to experience this area to the fullest, staying in Munduk is the best option.
  • West Bali – This is the least populated part of Bali and it doesn’t get many visitors. You can find many quiet beaches here along with West Bali National Park. If you’re after a really low-key experience you can spend a couple of days here but generally, I wouldn’t recommend this area to first-timers, simply because the other areas have so much more to offer.
  • Nusa Islands – Southeast of the main island of Bali you’ll find 3 smaller islands known as the Nusa islands: Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Penida. You can visit them as a day trip from Bali but if you have more time, I strongly recommend staying there for a few days. If you’re interested, make sure to check my Nusa islands itinerary!

Depending on how long are you staying in Bali, I recommend choosing at least 2-3 bases during your trip. The island is far too big to explore from just one location!

However, before choosing your bases, there are a couple of things you’ll want to consider such as your budget and nearby attractions.

Budget won’t be an issue in Bali as accommodation here is pretty cheap, especially compared to North America or Western Europe. Generally speaking, South Bali is the most expensive part of the island and the further north and east you go, the cheaper the hotels will get.

That being said, you’ll find hostels, guest houses, and 5-star hotels in every area so you won’t be short of options.

The other thing you’ll want to consider is the attractions you’re interested in. I recommend compiling a list of all the attractions and pinning them on a map so you can see where you’ll going to spend the majority of your time and choose your bases accordingly.

If you need any help with this, check out my 2 week Bali itinerary which contains all the interesting attractions and even includes a custom-made map.

Without further ado, let’s see where to stay in Bali! This article is going to detail the 10 best areas to stay in Bali and show you what each one has to offer.

If you don’t have time to read this article now, you can have a quick scan of the below table. It shows the best places in Bali to stay and a rundown of what each area offers.

AreaRecommended Hotels
Ubud (culture, sightseeing, first-time visitors, nature-lovers)Kamandalu Ubud
Canggu (beaches, first-time visitors, food, great atmosphere)COMO Uma Canggu
Seminyak (beaches, luxury stays, shopping, family-friendly)The Legian Seminyak
Kuta (nightlife, beaches, attractions, first-time visitors)Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel
Uluwatu (beaches, surfing, relaxed atmosphere, attractions)Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort
Nusa Dua (luxury stays, Beaches, shopping, food)MERUSAKA Nusa Dua
Sidemen (culture, nature-lovers, sightseeing, family-friendly)Wapa di Ume Sidemen
Candidasa (beaches, culture, sightseeing, relaxing atmosphere)Candi Beach Resort & Spa
Amed (diving, snorkeling, budget-friendly, relaxing atmosphere)Vienna Beach Resort
Munduk (nature lovers, sightseeing, relaxing atmosphere, scenic views)Munduk Moding Plantation

Best Places to Stay in Bali

If you’re struggling to make a decision, then here’s a more in-depth guide on where to stay in Bali. This island is full of beautiful towns and villages, so it’s not an easy decision to choose the perfect base for your trip.

However, I’ve rounded up the best areas to stay in Bali using my personal experience and some dedicated research. So, let’s take a look at each place and see which one is most suited to you! 

1. Ubud

Lush green scenery at Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud, Bali

Known as the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud is one of the most popular places to stay on the island.

With tropical jungles, lush rice terraces, and plenty of waterfalls nearby, this is one of the best locations to stay in Bali for nature lovers.

Not only that, but this part of the island is home to lots of attractions including the Campuhan Ridge Walk, Ubud Palace, and Saraswati Temple.

However, the most popular attraction in Ubud is the monkey forest! Home to over 700 macaques, this forest is a must-visit whilst staying in the area. 

You’ll find a lot of accommodation options situated along Jalan Raya Ubud which is the town’s main street. However, the more luxurious options tend to be located out of Ubud, so keep this in mind. 

With plenty of temples and tourist attractions nearby, lots of fantastic places to eat, and tons of accommodation options – Ubud is without a doubt one of the best places to stay in Bali.

No matter how much time you plan to spend in Bali, make sure to stay in Ubud for a couple of days. For a detailed itinerary, you can refer to my 3 days in Ubud article.

Pros and cons of staying in Ubud

PROS

  • Plenty of attractions nearby
  • The cultural heart of the island
  • One of the most beautiful areas in Bali 

CONS

  • Since it’s located in Central Bali, it’s not suitable for a beach holiday
  • The monkeys can be a nuisance, as they wander into town from the forest

The best places to stay in Ubud

Kamandalu Ubud
Photo credit: Kamandalu Ubud

LUXURY – Kamandalu Ubud

Kamandalu Ubud is one of the most luxurious hotels on the island. Offering stunning views of the Petanu River and the surrounding forest, this place is the best luxury stay in Ubud. The rooms are inspired by traditional Balinese decor and most units feature a daybed and a private pool.

The Udaya Resorts and Spa
Photo credit: The Udaya Resorts and Spa

MID-RANGE – The Udaya Resorts and Spa

This place has a lot to offer with striking views, spacious suites, and fantastic facilities. Guests will benefit from a swimming pool, a spa & wellness center, and a restaurant that serves delicious Indonesian dishes.

Gita Maha Ubud Hotel by Mahaputra
Photo credit: Gita Maha Ubud Hotel by Mahaputra

BUDGET – Gita Maha Ubud Hotel by Mahaputra

Ubud is full of budget-friendly accommodation options but not many are as beautiful as this place! Gita Maha Ubud Hotel is situated just a 5-minute drive from the Royal Palace and offers an outdoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant. Each room at this hotel is incredibly spacious too, and many of them feature a private balcony.

2. Canggu

If you’re wondering where to stay in Bali and you’re looking for a base in the south, then Canggu is one of your best options.

This beach town is home to tons of trendy cafes, boutique stores, quirky markets, and bars. You’ll also find plenty of beach clubs in Canggu including the Lawn and Finns Beach Club.

This makes it a popular spot for backpackers and first-time visitors to Bali. It’s also the area of choice for keen surfers, digital nomads, and ex-pats so you’ll find plenty of ‘western-style’ facilities here too. 

Canggu is known as the ‘coolest place to stay in Bali’ and there are plenty of activities to get involved in like surfing, yoga, and horse riding. 

Most of the best cafes in Canggu and stores are found along Batu Bolong which is Canggu’s main strip. This is a great place to stay, especially if it’s your first visit to the island.

Just keep in mind that Canggu can get extremely busy and the roads are sometimes very chaotic. If you’re looking for a quiet area to stay on the coast, then I’d recommend heading to Uluwatu or Nusa Dua.

However, if you’re looking for a beach getaway and amazing vibes then Canggu is still one of the best areas to stay in Bali!

Pros and cons of staying in Canggu

PROS

  • Located right by the beach
  • Lots of fantastic places to eat and stores to shop
  • The ex-pat and digital nomad community is very strong

CONS

  • Can get very busy, especially during the peak tourist months
  • Doesn’t feel as authentic as other parts of Bali

The best places to stay in Canggu

COMO Uma Canggu Bali
Photo credit: COMO Uma Canggu via Booking.com

LUXURY – COMO Uma Canggu

This hotel is set back from Echo Beach and Batu Bolong Beach is close by too! Offering panoramic sea views, COMO Uma Canggu is one of the best luxury options in this part of Bali. There are two swimming pools, a spa & wellness center, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant at the hotel too.

BoHo Canggu
Photo credit: BoHo Canggu via Booking.com

MID-RANGE – BoHo Canggu

BoHo Canggu is an adults-only hotel so is perfect for romantic getaways! There are plenty of facilities here too including an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace area, and a garden. All the rooms are beautifully designed and each one offers an ensuite bathroom, a wardrobe, and air conditioning.

Serenity Eco Guesthouse
Photo credit: Serenity Eco Guesthouse via Booking.com

BUDGET – Serenity Eco Guesthouse

Serenity Eco Guesthouse is just a 1-minute walk from the beach and is the perfect option for a relaxing getaway. This property offers daily yoga sessions, massages, meditation, and a permaculture garden, so you can really get in touch with your body. There’s also an on-site vegan restaurant, a swimming pool, and free WiFi.

3. Seminyak

Sunset in Seminyak, Bali

Seminyak is also found along the southwest coast and is located just 10 km (6.2 miles) from Canggu. It’s another popular area and is notorious for being ‘more upmarket’ so you’ll find plenty of 5-star hotels here, luxury villas, and fancy beach clubs.

If you’re traveling on a budget don’t worry though, as Seminyak still has plenty of low-cost accommodation options too.

This is one of the best locations to stay in Bali if you’re a keen shopper as you’ll find endless boutique stores, shopping malls, and branded shops. There’s something for everyone, and prices are likely to be much cheaper than back home.

You’ll also find plenty of awesome beach clubs here including the iconic Potato Head Beach Club and Mano Beach House. So be prepared for awesome food!

To conclude, Seminyak is one of the best places in Bali to stay if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, a romantic weekend, or a family-friendly holiday.

Pros and cons of staying in Seminyak

PROS

  • Wide variety of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury
  • Relaxing atmosphere 

CONS

  • Traffic in Seminyak can get pretty bad so keep this in mind if you’re planning to hire a scooter
  • You may get hassled a lot by local sellers if you’re spending a lot of time on the beach

The best places to stay in Seminyak

The Legian Seminyak, Bali
Photo credit: The Legian Seminyak, Bali via Booking.com

LUXURY – The Legian Seminyak, Bali

This beachfront hotel offers beautiful rooms in a scenic setting as you’ll get stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The Legian Seminyak also has plenty of fantastic facilities including a three-tiered swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center.

Montigo Resorts Seminyak
Photo credit: Montigo Resorts Seminyak via Booking.com

MID-RANGE – Montigo Resorts Seminyak

Montigo Resorts is situated right next to Potato Head Beach Club so is in a great location. The hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the center of Seminyak, and there are two swimming pools on-site as well as a spa & wellness center. Not only that but Montigo Resorts also has a bar and fitness center

Bali Ayu Hotel & Villas
Photo credit: Bali Ayu Hotel & Villas via Booking.com

BUDGET – Bali Ayu Hotel & Villas

Bali Ayu Hotel & Villas is set in a great location as it’s just a 4-minute walk from the beach and it’s close to Petitenget Street. The rooms are very budget-friendly, and each one is spacious and features a balcony. Breakfast is available at the property, and there are two swimming pools.

4. Kuta

Balangan Beach in Kuta, Bali

Kuta is without a doubt one of the best places to stay in Bali for backpackers and party lovers. This beach town is famous for its nightlife and the most iconic spot is the Sky Garden Lounge which is the largest nightclub in Kuta. 

Because of this, just keep in mind that this area may not be suitable for families with small children as the strip gets very lively at night.

You’ll also want to keep a close eye on your belongings, as robberies are pretty common in Kuta as it’s the party hub of the island. However, Kuta still has plenty to offer! 

There are tons of attractions in this area including Waterbom Bali Waterpark, the Beachwalk Shopping Center, and of course, Kuta Beach.

If you’re heading to Kuta between April and October, you don’t want to miss out on a visit to the Sea Turtle Conservation Center either. Not only can you learn about the work of the Bali Sea Turtle Society (BSTS), but if you time your visit right you’ll be able to release baby sea turtles! 

Although it’s not the most popular choice, it’s still a great option if you’re wondering where to stay in Bali! 

Pros and cons of staying in Kuta

PROS

  • Great nightlife options
  • Plenty of attractions in the area
  • Lots of luxury stores and commercialized food chains

CONS

  • As the area gets so lively at night, it may not be suitable for families with small children
  • Kuta is notorious for robberies – especially on the main strip
  • It’s very commercialized so if you’re looking for an authentic experience, you are better to stay elsewhere

The best places to stay in Kuta

The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali
Photo credit: The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali via Booking.com

LUXURY – The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali

This beachfront 5-star hotel is situated close to popular attractions within Kuta including Waterbom Bali and the Discovery Shopping Mall. With a large swimming pool, landscaped tropical gardens, and a spa & wellness center – this place has plenty to offer. There are also several restaurants on-site, a pool bar, and a private beach area.

Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel
Photo credit: Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel via Booking.com

MID-RANGE – Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel

Located right next to Discovery Shopping Mall and the coast, this hotel is one of the best mid-range accommodation options in Kuta. There are plenty of fantastic facilities too including two swimming pools, a spa & wellness center, and a fitness center. There’s also a variety of room options and many of them offer views of the ocean.

The Kana Kuta Hotel
Photo credit: The Kana Kuta Hotel via Booking.com

BUDGET – The Kana Kuta Hotel

If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation then make sure you check out the Kana Kuta Hotel. With an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center, there are lots of amenities available for guests. All the rooms are spacious too and feature air conditioning, a seating area, and an ensuite bathroom.

5. Uluwatu

Uluwatu Cliff, Bali

If you’re looking for a quiet beach escape, then head to Uluwatu which is found on the south coast. This part of Bali is home to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches – so imagine pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and towering cliff faces.

If you’re looking to relax make sure you head to some of these beaches including Padang Padang, Nyang Nyang, and Bingin.

Uluwatu is also one of the best areas to stay in Bali if you’re a keen surfer as there are some serious waves to be found here! For this reason, you’ll find plenty of surfboard rental companies around.

If you’re not into surfing, there are plenty of other attractions to visit including Uluwatu Temple, Savaya Bali, and Balangan Viewpoint.

Uluwatu is far away from popular destinations like Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak so if you’ve got a jam-packed itinerary then it may be best to stay somewhere more central.

However, if you’re just looking for a relaxing getaway, then Uluwatu is one of the best places to stay in Bali.

Pros and cons of staying in Uluwatu

PROS

  • Great location for surfing 
  • Home to some of Bali’s most beautiful beaches 

CONS

  • Public transport is nonexistent in Uluwatu
  • As it’s located along the south coast, it’s isolated from other popular towns and attractions on the island

The best places to stay in Uluwatu

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort
Photo credit: Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort

LUXURY – Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort

Situated right on the cliff edge, Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort is one of the most beautiful hotels in the area. Offering an outdoor infinity pool, a spa & wellness center, and a fitness center, this hotel is the perfect luxury option. There’s also a variety of dining options including a rooftop restaurant and a bar & grill. 

Green Escape Eco Resort
Photo credit: Green Escape Eco Resort

MID-RANGE – Green Escape Eco Resort

Green Escape Eco Resort is just a 5-minute walk from the beach and offers an outdoor swimming pool, a shared lounge area, and a bar. There’s also a garden and terrace area where guests can relax. Breakfast is included with your stay too, and each bungalow is beautifully designed.

Mangga Wangga Living
Photo credit: Mangga Wangga Living

BUDGET – Mangga Wangga Living

Mangga Wangga Living is one of the best budget-friendly options in Uluwatu. It has plenty to offer with stunning rooms and fantastic facilities including an outdoor swimming pool and a shared lounge area. Guests can also benefit from room service and free WiFi at this hotel.

6. Nusa Dua

Aerial view of Nusa Dua Beach

If you’re looking for luxury accommodation then Nusa Dua is one of the best locations to stay in Bali! It’s the most exclusive area on the island and is a popular holiday destination for honeymooners. 

This makes Nusa Dua perfect for holiday goers who are just looking to relax and spend their trip at the beach.

You can also do some shopping at Bali Collection, admire the blow hole on Nusa Dua Beach, or take a trip out to Serangan Island. However, if you’re someone who prefers a busy itinerary then I’d recommend staying elsewhere. 

Although Uluwatu is nearby, you’ll still be very isolated from other popular spots on the island including Canggu, Kuta, and Ubud.

So if you’re wondering where to stay in Bali and you’re looking for somewhere private and luxurious – Nusa Dua is your place.

Pros and cons of staying in Nusa Dua

PROS

  • Lots of beautiful beaches in the area
  • Great for a relaxing getaway or a honeymoon trip 
  • Full of gorgeous resorts

CONS

  • Nusa Dua is isolated from other popular destinations in Bali including Canggu and Ubud
  • There aren’t as many attractions in Nusa Dua

The best places to stay in Nusa Dua

The St. Regis Bali Resort
Photo credit: The St. Regis Bali Resort

LUXURY – The St. Regis Bali Resort

There’s no shortage of luxury resorts in Nusa Dua but this one stands out above the rest! The St. Regis Bali Resort sits right on the beachfront and offers an outdoor lagoon pool, a full-service spa, and a free airport limousine shuttle service. Some of the rooms here even feature a private pool or hot tub.

MERUSAKA Nusa Dua
Photo credit: MERUSAKA Nusa Dua

MID-RANGE – MERUSAKA Nusa Dua

This hotel is just a 2-minute walk from the beach and offers spacious rooms and fantastic facilities. There are three swimming pools at MERUSAKA Nusa Dua, as well as an on-site restaurant, a fitness center, and a spa & wellness center. There’s also a tour desk at the hotel where staff can organize day trips and excursions for you. 

Alindra Villa
Photo credit: Alindra Villa

BUDGET – Alindra Villa

Although primarily an exclusive area, you’ll still find budget options in Nusa Dua. Alindra Villa is one of the most low-cost options in this part of Bali and offers stunning suites. Many of the units feature a private balcony and air conditioning too. There are two swimming pools at the hotel, an on-site restaurant, and a spa & wellness center.

7. Sidemen

Rice fields in Sidemen, Bali

If you’re not looking for a beach getaway, then Sidemen is easily one of the best locations to stay in Bali – especially for nature lovers.

Situated in East Bali, Sidemen is a small village surrounded by lush rice terraces, scenic forests, and the island’s iconic volcano – Mount Agung.

By staying here you’ll get to appreciate the island’s true beauty and rural charm as you’ll be miles away from any tourist hot spots. If your heart is set on staying at some of the coolest bamboo houses in Bali, you’ll find the best ones around Sidemen.

You’ll also find some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali nearby including Gembleng Waterfall, Tukad Cepung, and Goa Raja.

Not only that but there are tons of other popular attractions close by including Pura Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga, and Besakih Temple.

The only thing to keep in mind is that there aren’t nearly as many western facilities and restaurants as you would find in the south.

The popular tourist spots of Canggu, Kuta, and Seminyak are also at least 52 km away (32 miles), so you’ll benefit from hiring a driver or renting a scooter if you decide to stay here.

However, if you’re a fan of the outdoors and are looking for a peaceful base – Sidemen is one of the best places to stay in Bali!

Pros and cons of staying in Sidemen

PROS

  • The surrounding area is beautiful
  • Sidemen is one of the quietest areas in Bali

CONS

  • It’s isolated from popular destinations along the southwest coast of Bali
  • Not so many restaurant options

The best places to stay in Sidemen

Wapa di Ume Sidemen
Photo credit: Wapa di Ume Sidemen via Booking.com

LUXURY – Wapa di Ume Sidemen

If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, then stay at Wapa di Ume Sidemen. You’ll benefit from a variety of fantastic facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and a bar. There’s also a garden and terrace area, and bicycles are free to use. 

Alamdhari Resort and Spa
Photo credit: Alamdhari Resort and Spa via Booking.com

MID-RANGE – Alamdhari Resort and Spa

With an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the lush forests, an on-site restaurant, and a bar – Alamdhari Resort and Spa has a lot to offer guests. Breakfast is included with your stay too, and there’s a garden area where you can relax. The rooms here are stunning and many of them feature a private balcony with amazing views.

Sawah Indah Villa
Photo credit: Sawah Indah Villa via Booking.com

BUDGET – Sawah Indah Villa

Sawah Indah Villa is just a 30-minute drive from Tirta Gangga and is surrounded by lush rice terraces and forested mountains. Offering an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and spa treatments this hotel has everything you could need and more! The staff at the hotel can also help with vehicle rentals and organizing excursions.

8. Candidasa

Lotus Lagoon in Cadidasa, Bali

When people are considering where to stay in Bali, the seaside town of Candidasa often isn’t even thought of. 

It’s a two-hour drive from the popular tourist destination of Kuta and is one of the best places to stay in Bali if you’re looking to escape the crowds.

You won’t find tons of infrastructure here – instead, you’ll be wandering past traditional Balinese houses and temples making this a great place to learn about the island’s culture.

Candidasa is also a great location to explore some of the island’s main attractions as Tirtta Ganga, Pura Lempuyang, and Taman Soekasada Ujung Water Palace are all within a 50-minute drive of the town.

You can even take a trip out to some of the islands found just off the coast including Gili Biaha, Gili Mimpang, and Gili Tepekong.

However, this is another part of Bali where you’ll definitely want to hire a driver or a scooter to get around.

Pros and cons of staying in Candidasa

PROS

  • Candidasa is one of the quieter seaside towns in Bali
  • It’s in a great location for visiting nearby attractions such as Tirta Gangga

CONS

  • There’s only one bus a day that runs between Sanur and Candidasa
  • Isolated from other popular destinations in Bali

The best places to stay in Candidasa

Candi Beach Resort & Spa
Photo credit: Candi Beach Resort & Spa via Booking.com

LUXURY – Candi Beach Resort & Spa

Candi Beach Resort & Spa is located along a private beach and offers three swimming pools, a variety of water sports, and a spa & wellness center. There are also several on-site restaurants so you’ll have plenty of dining options. If that’s not enough to convince you, this hotel has two bars and a tour desk that can help with excursions.

Villa Barong
Photo credit: Villa Barong via Booking.com

MID-RANGE – Villa Barong

Villa Barong is just a 5-minute walk from the beach and is nestled within landscaped gardens and coconut trees. There are several villas available at the property and each one offers a private pool, a modern kitchen, and a terrace area. The villas sleep up to four people so are a great option for groups and small families.

Rama Shinta Hotel Candidasa
Photo credit: Rama Shinta Hotel Candidasa via Booking.com

BUDGET – Rama Shinta Hotel Candidasa

This is one of the best budget-friendly accommodation options in Candidasa. Set within tropical gardens, this hotel has plenty to offer with excellent facilities and spacious rooms. Guests will benefit from an outdoor pool, an open-air restaurant, and a bar during their stay too! Staff at the hotel can also help arrange rentals and excursions.

9. Amed

Beach in Amed, Bali

If you’re wondering where to stay in Bali and you’re looking to test out your diving skills then make sure you base yourself in Amed. It’s one of the best diving locations on the island and is home to tons of coral reefs and vibrant marine life. 

Tulamben is located just up the coast and is another great spot for diving. Not only will you get to spot a variety of fish, but there’s an impressive shipwreck here too. 

Whether you’re an experienced diver or a complete beginner, you’ll find plenty of diving opportunities in the area.

After you’ve spent some time exploring below the waves, there are plenty of fantastic cafes and small shops nearby. 

Although accommodation is cheap throughout the island, you’ll find some absolute steals if you decide to stay in Amed. 

However, keep in mind that public transport doesn’t operate in this area so you’ll need to hire a moped or car to get around. You can of course catch taxis but this will work out much more expensive in the long run.

So although it may not be one of the tourist hot spots, it’s one of the best areas to stay in Bali if you’re looking to witness some of the island’s beautiful marine life. 

Pros and cons of staying in Amed

PROS

  • One of the best diving spots in Bali
  • Accommodation is extremely cheap in Amed 

CONS

  • Public transport doesn’t operate in this part of Bali
  • The roads in this area aren’t in the best condition

The best places to stay in Amed

The Griya Villas and Spa
Photo credit: The Griya Villas and Spa

LUXURY – The Griya Villas and Spa

This 5-star hotel is set amongst tropical gardens and offers striking sea views. With spacious villas, a swimming pool overlooking the ocean, and a spa & wellness center – this place has a lot to offer. There’s also an on-site restaurant at the hotel and a fitness center.

Vienna Beach Resort
Photo credit: Vienna Beach Resort

MID-RANGE – Vienna Beach Resort

You can walk directly onto Lipah Beach from Vienna Beach Resort which is extremely handy! This hotel also offers plenty of activities including diving, fishing, and snorkeling so there’s something for everyone. Guests will also benefit from fantastic facilities too including an on-site restaurant, a swimming pool, and a bar. 

Amed Beach Resort
Photo credit: Amed Beach Resort

BUDGET – Amed Beach Resort

Amed Beach Resort is situated right on the beachfront and offers spectacular views. It’s one of the best budget options in Amed and offers two swimming pools, a sea-view restaurant, and a 24-hour front desk. The rooms are also spacious and many of them offer superb views of the ocean.

10. Munduk

Infinity pool at Munduk Moding Plantation in Bali

Munduk is situated in Northern Bali and is one of the most unexplored (and underrated) destinations on the island.

If you’re not interested in a beach getaway and you want to escape the crowds, then it’s one of the best locations to stay in Bali. With plenty of fantastic viewpoints, lush rice terraces, and scenic waterfalls – this area has lots to offer. 

If you decide to stay here, then there are plenty of awesome sites to visit nearby including the iconic Handara Gate, Wanagiri Hidden Hills, and the Bali Twin Lakes viewpoint.

Make sure you explore some of the beautiful waterfalls in the area too including Munduk Waterfall and Banyumala Twin Falls. However, just keep in mind that public transport doesn’t operate in this region of Bali.

There’s a daily shuttle service that sometimes runs between Ubud and Munduk, but other than that you won’t find it easy to get around unless you have your own vehicle.

But, if you don’t mind finding your own way around and you’d prefer to explore the island’s wild side then Munduk is one of the best areas to stay in Bali.

Pros and cons of staying in Munduk

PROS

  • One of the most peaceful areas on the island so you’ll get many sites to yourself
  • Outstanding natural beauty 

CONS

  • Very isolated and is far from other popular destinations in Bali like Canggu and Ubud
  • You’ll need to hire a car or scooter to explore the area

The best places to stay in Munduk

Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa
Photo credit: Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa via Booking.com

LUXURY – Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa

Munduk Moding Plantation is easily one of the most beautiful hotels in Bali. It’s famous for its infinity pool that offers striking views of the surrounding rice terraces and mountains. There are also plenty of other facilities at the hotel including an on-site restaurant, a spa & wellness center, and a bar.

Nadira Bali Villa
Photo credit: Nadira Bali Villavia Booking.com

MID-RANGE – Nadira Bali Villa

If you’re looking for mid-range accommodation in Munduk then make sure you check out Nadira Bali Villa. With an outdoor swimming pool, a sun terrace, and an on-site restaurant – this place has so much to offer. The villas and suites are also stunning and many of them offer superb views of the surrounding mountains.

Atres Villa
Photo credit: Atres Villa via Booking.com

BUDGET – Atres Villa

Atres Villa is just a 20-minute drive from Munduk Waterfall so is set in a great location to explore the area. This hotel also has lots of excellent facilities including an outdoor pool, a spa & wellness center, and a bar. However, the highlight of this place has to be the surrounding rice terraces!


Planning a trip to Bali?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Bali. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Bali Travel Guides:

Bali Hotel Guides:

Nusa Penida Travel Guides:


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