Where to Stay in Bali 2025: Our Top Areas & Best Hotels

We spent a full month exploring Bali — and not just the postcard-perfect parts. From surf towns and jungle escapes to buzzing beach hubs and mountain villages, we stayed in different areas across almost every corner of the island.

After countless hotel check-ins, scooter rides, and sunrise coffees, we’ve figured out which spots are truly worth staying in (and which are better for a quick visit).

This guide breaks down the best areas to stay in Bali depending on your vibe — whether you’re chasing beaches, culture, or calm — plus our favorite hotels in each, from budget gems to stylish hideaways.

If you’re planning your first trip or returning for round two, this will help you choose where to base yourself so you can actually enjoy Bali — without wasting days in traffic or picking the wrong side of the island.

Where to Stay in Bali: Our Experience

We spent over a month traveling around Bali, booking stays in different parts of the island to see what it’s actually like to stay there — not just visit for a day. And honestly, each area felt like a completely different world.

We started in Canggu, which everyone seems to talk about — but for us, it was too much. The beaches get unbelievably crowded at sunset, scooters ride around nonstop, and the traffic during the day is honestly unbearable. It’s got a fun café scene, but the noise and chaos made it hard to relax.

Next came Seminyak, and while it’s a little more polished, it felt pretty similar — busy streets, packed beach clubs, and not much of that “Bali calm” we were looking for. It’s convenient, sure, but we didn’t stay long.

Then we made our way to Uluwatu — and it quickly became our favorite. The mix of cliff views, beach bars, and surf spots felt amazing. There are tons of great places to eat, watch the sunset, or explore hidden beaches, and we loved it so much that we ended up coming back for a few extra days before leaving Bali.

We moved inland to Ubud, expecting a peaceful, spiritual jungle retreat. The town center, though, was busier than we ever imagined — traffic jams, tour buses, and endless souvenir shops.

The good news? Once you stay on the outskirts of Ubud, you get the magic you’ve seen in photos: rice terraces, jungle views, and quiet mornings.

From there, we made our way north to Bedugul, and it completely changed the pace. Cooler air, mountain lakes, local markets — and almost no tourists. We fell in love! It’s insane how diverse this island is.

Our next stop was Amed, and it honestly felt like stepping onto a different island. It’s laid-back and full of small local restaurants. We loved spending our days snorkeling and beach-hopping.

After visiting so many areas, we realized there’s no single “best place” to stay in Bali — it really depends on what kind of trip you’re after. Each area has its own rhythm, and picking the right base can completely change your experience.

Best Areas to Stay in Bali

Canggu

Just north of Seminyak, Canggu is often called Bali’s digital nomad capital — full of surfboards, scooters, and smoothie bowls. We’d heard so much about it and expected that postcard version of Bali: luxury villas surrounded by rice fields.

But the moment we rode in from the airport, we realized that’s mostly in the past.

Today, it’s a fast-growing expat hub that simply wasn’t built for the amount of traffic and development it now has. The roads are narrow, the noise constant, and by the time we arrived, we already had headaches from weaving through endless scooters.

On the plus side, the café scene is great, and beaches are lively at sunset — but it just didn’t feel like the right fit for us.

✅ Pros: Great café culture, easy beach access, lively social scene
❌ Cons: Overdeveloped, loud, and extremely congested roads
⭐️ Best for: Digital nomads, surfers, and travelers who love a busy, social environment

Seminyak

Right next to Canggu, Seminyak feels a bit more polished and upscale — full of boutique hotels, beach clubs, and endless dining options. After the chaos of Canggu, we were hoping for something calmer, and it did feel a little less crowded. Still, the traffic and noise were never far away.

That said, it is possible to find peaceful spots here. The hotel we stayed in felt like a complete oasis in the middle of the chaos — quiet, green, and surprisingly relaxing despite being so close to everything.

Insider tip: Pick accommodation tucked away from the main roads — it makes all the difference. If you choose the right hotel, this might be one of the best areas to stay in Bali.

✅ Pros: Convenient location, plenty of restaurants and hotels, walkable area
❌ Cons: Busy streets, constant traffic, limited local charm
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors who want comfort and convenience close to the beach

Uluwatu

Down on Bali’s southern tip, Uluwatu feels completely different from the island’s busier areas — open roads, dramatic cliffs, and beaches hidden between limestone walls.

It’s spread out, so you’ll definitely need a scooter, but that freedom is part of what makes it so fun.

We loved it here the most and even came back for a few extra days before leaving Bali. There are amazing spots to eat, surf, and watch the sunset, and despite its popularity, it still feels relaxed compared to Canggu or Seminyak.

Each beach has its own personality — from the lively Padang Padang to the quiet coves near Bingin.

✅ Pros: Stunning views, great beaches, lots of food options, laid-back vibe
❌ Cons: Spread out — a scooter is essential
⭐️ Best for: Beach lovers, surfers, digital nomads

Ubud

Ubud is often called the island’s cultural and spiritual center — surrounded by rice terraces, jungle, and temples. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your days exploring art markets, hidden waterfalls, or walking through endless greenery.

We stayed both in the town and further outside, and the difference was huge. The center gets really busy — scooters everywhere, packed restaurants (some even need reservations), and constant movement.

But once you stay just a few minutes out, it feels like a different side of Ubud. It’s quiet, and you wake up to views of rice fields instead of traffic.

It’s also the perfect base to explore some of the best Ubud waterfalls, the Tegalalang Rice Fields, and the Campuhan Ridge Walk, which are all just a short drive away.

✅ Pros: Scenic views, rich culture, peaceful outskirts
❌ Cons: Busy town center, restaurants fill up quickly
⭐️ Best for: Travelers seeking nature, wellness, and local culture

Bedugul

Tucked away in the mountains of central Bali, Bedugul instantly feels different from the rest of the island. The air is cool, the mornings are foggy, and everything moves at half the speed of the coast — in the best way possible.

After spending time in busier areas, we loved finally being somewhere that felt calm and untouched.

Most people come here for Lake Beratan and the famous Ulun Danu Temple, but the real magic is in the quieter corners like Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall and Banyumala Twin Falls. Both are surrounded by jungle and surprisingly peaceful, especially if you visit early in the morning.

There’s not much nightlife or café culture here, but that’s exactly why it’s so relaxing. We spent our days driving between viewpoints, waterfalls, rice fields — and honestly, it was one of the most refreshing parts of our trip.

✅ Pros: Quiet, cool weather, beautiful mountain views
❌ Cons: Limited dining options, cooler evenings
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want to slow down and enjoy Bali’s natural side

Amed

As soon as we arrived in Amed, it reminded us a bit of what Canggu might have been like a few years ago.

The streets felt calm and laid-back — exactly the kind of tropical vibe we’d been hoping to find. There are a few stylish cafés and restaurants here and there, but they blend naturally with the local warungs, giving the whole area a really nice balance.

There’s no surf in Amed, but the snorkeling is on another level. We were blown away by the colorful coral and sea turtles gliding by. The Amed beaches are lined with traditional fishing boats, the sea is calm, and the view of Mount Agung rising in the background adds to the charm.

✅ Pros: Peaceful atmosphere, amazing snorkeling, local charm
❌ Cons: Limited nightlife, quite far from other parts of Bali
⭐️ Best for: Travelers looking for a quiet coastal base with authentic island vibes, honeymooners

Best Hotels in Bali

This list brings together our Bali hotel recommendations across the island. Every place here is one we’ve either stayed at ourselves or would genuinely recommend after exploring Bali from north to south and doing deep research so you don’t have to.

Best Hotels in Canggu

Canggu is Bali’s social hub — full of beach bars, cafés, and surf breaks. It’s lively, trendy, and perfect if you want to be in the middle of everything (just be ready for the traffic).

Here are some of our favorite places to stay, from affordable guesthouses to boutique villas:

• Koming Guest House $
• Sin Nombre $$
• Lalasa Villas $$$

Koming Guest House $

Koming Guest House is a small family-run guesthouse. It’s one of those places that instantly makes you feel at home. The rooms are simple but spotless, surrounded by green gardens and just a short walk from Canggu’s cafés and the beach.

There’s free parking, breakfast served on your terrace, and the kindest hosts who’ll help with anything you need. If you want a low-budget place that feels quiet but still walkable, this one’s a winner.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who value peace, comfort, and local hospitality.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Sin Nombre $$ (Our Top Pick)

Sin Nombre offers stylish design, with modern rooms, lots of natural light, and a quiet atmosphere. What really makes it special are the little details — a beautiful rooftop terrace where you can watch the sunset, and a sauna that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day.

The staff are lovely, the breakfast is great, and everything feels calm and personal.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a peaceful, design-focused stay with wellness touches in the heart of Canggu.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Lalasa Villas $$$

We stayed at Lalasa Villas, and it was such a relaxing place to be. The villa felt really spacious, with a private pool that was perfect for lazy mornings.

But what we actually loved most was the big shared pool — the atmosphere there was so lovely, surrounded by greenery and even a few tiny rice fields. The on-site restaurant made life easy, with great food just steps from our room, and the floating breakfast was one of those must-do Bali moments.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or friends looking for a calm, comfortable stay with great food and that classic Bali vibe.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Seminyak

Seminyak is full of boutique hotels and sunset spots that never disappoint. It’s more polished than Canggu and a little calmer too, but still has plenty going on. If you like having shops, restaurants, and the beach all within walking distance, this is a great area to stay.

Here are some of our favorite hotels for every budget.

• Gelatik Bed & Breakfast $
• Kayumas Seminyak Resort $$
• Blue Karma Village $$$

Gelatik Bed & Breakfast $

Gelatik Bed & Breakfast is a cozy stay tucked away on a quiet street, yet close enough to walk to Seminyak’s main cafés and shops. The rooms are clean and bright, there’s a small pool for lazy afternoons, and the staff are genuinely welcoming.

It’s simple but has everything you need for a comfortable base in the city. We’d choose this stay for its great value for money.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want comfort and convenience without the crowds.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Kayumas Seminyak Resort $$

Kayumas offers spacious, modern rooms with private plunge pools that feel like a real treat after a hot day out. What really stands out is how genuinely friendly the staff is — always smiling, always ready to help — and how good the food and drinks are.

Everything is just a short walk away, yet it still feels calm and private once you’re inside.

⭐️ Best for: Couples, friends, or families who want comfort, privacy, and great service in a central location.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Blue Karma Village $$$ (Our Top Pick)

This is exactly how we imagine the perfect Bali accommodation. Blue Karma Village feels lush and intimate, with multiple pools scattered around the property — each with its own style and atmosphere, so there’s always a quiet spot just for you.

The dining was on another level, honestly, some of the best food we’ve had on the island. And the villas? Spacious, exotic, and luxurious yet still cozy.

Despite being on the higher end of our list, we’d say the price is absolutely worth it — and it’s not even that expensive, with nights starting at around €150.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or families looking for a stylish, relaxing stay with exceptional food and design.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Uluwatu

Uluwatu is where Bali shows off its dramatic side — steep cliffs, golden beaches, and sunsets that honestly never get old. Each area has its own vibe, from surfy Bingin to upscale resorts on the cliffs.

Whether you’re here for the views, the beaches, or just to slow down and enjoy Bali’s southern coast, these are our favorite places to stay:

• PinkPrivate Balangan – Adults Only $
• Mahagiri Villas & Spa Dreamland $$
• Grün Uluwatu $$$

PinkPrivate Balangan – Adults Only $ (Our Top Pick)

We stayed at PinkPrivate Balangan, and it quickly became one of our favorite places in Uluwatu. The whole place feels calm and private, with just a few villas surrounded by tropical gardens and a pool.

The design is truly unique — crazy pink colors everywhere, but it somehow works perfectly and gives the place such a fun, playful vibe.

The breakfast was honestly one of the best we had in Bali, and everything felt so well cared for. It’s just a short drive to Balangan Beach, and the adults-only setup keeps it peaceful and quiet. We’d choose this stay for its great value for money.

⭐️ Best for: Couples looking for a fun yet relaxing hideaway close to the beach.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Mahagiri Villas & Spa Dreamland $$

Mahagiri Villas & Spa stands out for how peaceful it feels, even though it’s only a few minutes from Bingin and Dreamland Beach.

The villas are beautiful — big, bright, and each with its own private pool surrounded by greenery. What makes this place special is the atmosphere: quiet, relaxing, and with staff who genuinely go out of their way to make you feel welcome.

The on-site spa is also a highlight if you’re after a bit of pampering between beach days.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or friends looking for a private, comfortable stay close to Uluwatu’s beaches.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Grün Uluwatu $$$

Grün Uluwatu is one of the most unique places to stay in the area — built into the hillside and surrounded by greenery, it feels calm and private but still close to Bingin and Padang Padang.

The villas are bright, modern, and designed in a really smart way that makes the most of the views. There’s a relaxed vibe throughout the whole place, with great food, friendly staff, and a setting that makes it easy to slow down and just enjoy being there.

⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, or friends who want a stylish, nature-focused stay close to Uluwatu’s beaches.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Ubud

Surrounded by rice terraces, jungle, and quiet villages. It’s the perfect place to unwind, try yoga, explore waterfalls, and eat your way through endless healthy cafés.

Ubud has some incredible places to stay for every budget. Here are our favorites:

• Jero Sebali Villa $
• Rumah Kayu Resort $$
• Blue Karma Dijiwa $$$

Jero Sebali Villa $

At first sight, Jero Sebali Villa looks exactly like the kind of paradise we imagine when thinking of Ubud — a lush green garden, a beautiful pool, and villas designed with natural materials like wood and stone.

It feels calm and local, tucked away in a small village surrounded by rice fields, about ten minutes from the center by scooter. The owners are incredibly kind and make you feel at home right away.

It’s peaceful, beautifully designed, and such good value for what you get.

⭐️ Best for: Families, travelers who want a quiet, authentic stay in nature.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Rumah Kayu Resort $$

Rumah Kayu Resort has that same natural charm as Jero Sebali, but with a more refined, upscale feel. The villas are built with lots of wood, giving the whole place a warm, tropical vibe while still feeling elegant and comfortable.

It’s surrounded by rice fields, with a lovely pool overlooking rice fields and plenty of quiet corners to relax in. The restaurant serves great local dishes, and the whole atmosphere feels calm and easy.

When booking, keep in mind that it’s a bit further from Ubud center.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or families who want a stylish, nature-filled stay that still feels authentic and peaceful.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Blue Karma Dijiwa $$$ (Our Top Pick)

We stayed at Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud, and it’s one of the best hotels in Bali (from those we visited). The villas have a beautiful ethnic design — lots of wood, warm tones, and cozy details.

Each has a lovely terrace, and ours came with an outdoor bathroom and a hot tub overlooking the jungle. The main pool faces the rice terraces, with plenty of quiet spots to relax around it.

It’s the same concept as the one in Seminyak — stylish, calm, and incredibly comfortable. We also loved the food here; every meal felt fresh and full of flavor.

⭐️ Best for: Couples looking for a peaceful, design-focused stay surrounded by rice terraces and jungle views.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Bedugul

Surrounded by lakes, forests, mountains, and waterfalls, it feels completely different from the coast — cooler, quieter, and way less crowded. There aren’t as many hotels up here, but that’s part of the charm.

Here are a few that really stood out to us:

• Pondok Nyoman Bedugul by AGATA $
• Homm Saranam Baturiti $$
• Maha Hills Resort by Mahaprana Experience $$$

Pondok Nyoman Bedugul by AGATA $

Set among rice fields with wide views over the mountains, Pondok Nyoman Bedugul feels peaceful and authentic. The rooms are cozy and built with natural materials, the pool overlooks the valley, and the food gets great reviews for being fresh and homemade.

The staff are known for their kindness and attention to detail, which makes the whole place feel personal and welcoming.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers looking for a calm mountain stay with great views and local charm.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Homm Saranam Baturiti $$

Homm Saranam Baturiti sits high in the hills of Bedugul, surrounded by forest and rice fields. It’s the kind of place that feels peaceful from the moment you arrive. The rooms are warm and elegant, with wood accents and big windows overlooking the valley. There’s a heated pool with amazing views, a lovely spa, and a restaurant that serves really good local food. It’s quiet, refreshing, and easily one of the best places to stay in the area.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or families looking for a comfortable, nature-filled mountain retreat.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Maha Hills Resort by Mahaprana Experience $$$ (Our Top Pick)

We stayed at Maha Hills Resort, and it honestly felt like a dream come true. The rooms are stunning, with every detail carefully thought out — we especially loved the local kimonos instead of the usual white robes.

The restaurant overlooks the pool and rice fields, and during sunset, it turns into one of the most romantic views we’ve seen in Bali. It’s a perfect hotel for a honeymoon, and while it’s not directly in Bedugul, beautiful spots like Gitgit and Sekumpul Waterfalls are close by.

⭐️ Best for: Couples looking for a romantic, stylish getaway surrounded by nature.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Amed

Amed feels quiet, local, and surrounded by ocean views and black-sand beaches. Most stays here are small guesthouses or boutique hotels run by locals, often just steps from the sea.

These are some of our favorite places to stay in Amed.

• Sama Sama Amed $
• Villa Sky Dancer $$
• Mathis Lodge $$$

Sama Sama Amed $

Sama Sama is a friendly, relaxed place with a really lovely local feel. The bungalows are set in a quiet garden surrounded by greenery, and everything feels well cared for. Guests love the warm, welcoming staff and the cozy atmosphere.

The on-site restaurant serves great food, and you can easily walk to snorkeling spots and cafés nearby. It’s simple, peaceful, and great value for what you get.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a calm, cost-friendly base close to the beach

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Villa Sky Dancer $$ (Our Top Pick)

We stayed at Sky Dancer Villa, and it turned out to be one of our favorite stays in Amed. The rooms are simple but cozy and spacious, and ours had a terrace with beautiful sea views.

It’s right on the beachfront, so we fell asleep to the sound of the waves every night. The garden is lush and well-maintained, there’s a lovely pool, and the restaurant overlooking the sea serves really good food.

For the price, it’s a super comfortable stay — one we’d happily recommend.

⭐️ Best for: Couples who want a relaxed, beachfront stay with great value and ocean views.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

Mathis Lodge $$$

MATHIS Lodge Amed is easily one of the most impressive places to stay in the area.

Set high in the hills with panoramic ocean views, it offers exclusive 5-star wooden lodges that combine Balinese style with modern comfort. Each one feels private, peaceful, and surrounded by nature.

The infinity pool looks straight over the sea, the restaurant serves amazing food, and the whole place feels like a quiet little sanctuary above Amed. It’s a bit of a drive up, but absolutely worth it for the views and the calm.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or honeymooners looking for a luxury escape with unforgettable views.

👉 Check availability and current prices →

FAQ

Where should first-time visitors stay in Bali?

If you want to experience Bali’s digital nomad vibe, Seminyak is a great choice — lively yet calmer than Canggu, with plenty of cafés, shops, and beaches nearby. Uluwatu is perfect for beach lovers and surfers, offering stunning views and a more relaxed atmosphere.

And if you have the time, definitely explore more of the island — especially Ubud for its rice terraces, temples, and jungle feel.

What are the best places to stay in Bali for couples?

If you’re thinking about where to stay in Bali as a couple, Uluwatu is hard to beat — think cliffside sunsets, quiet beaches, and plenty of beautiful villas made for two.

If you’re after something more romantic and surrounded by nature, Ubud is another great choice with jungle views, private pools, and cozy boutique resorts.

Our favorite romantic stays:
⭐️ PinkPrivate Balangan (Uluwatu) – Adults-only, peaceful, and beautifully designed.
⭐️ Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud – Jungle views, outdoor hot tub, and the dreamiest pool setting.
⭐️ Maha Hills Resort by Mahaprana Experience (near Bedugul) – Perfect for honeymoons, with incredible sunsets and total privacy.

Where to stay in Bali with kids?

For families, Sanur and Nusa Dua are usually the easiest choices — calm beaches, safe swimming, and plenty of hotels with kids’ clubs and family facilities. 

Ubud is another great option if you want your kids to experience Bali’s nature and culture — rice terraces, waterfalls, and space to explore. And for something quieter and more local, Amed is perfect for families with older kids who love the ocean and snorkeling.

Family-friendly stays we recommend:
⭐️ Hyatt Regency Bali (Sanur) – Spacious rooms, beachfront access, and one of the best pools for kids.
⭐️ The Westin Resort Nusa Dua – Ideal for families, with an amazing kids’ club and lots of dining options.
⭐️ Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud – Peaceful jungle setting and a calm atmosphere for families who like nature.
⭐️ Onlyou Villas (Amed) – Beautiful sea views and two-bedroom villas with private pools.

Where to stay in Bali without a car?

If you’re not planning to rent a car or scooter and are not sure where to stay in Bali without needing one, we recommend Seminyak, Ubud, or Sanur. All three are walkable, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and shops nearby — and easy access to taxis or ride apps like Grab.

Seminyak is great if you want beaches, dining, and nightlife all within walking distance. Ubud works well if you prefer nature and culture, with lots of sights and restaurants close together. 

Sanur is the easiest for families or slower travel, with a long beachfront promenade perfect for walking and cycling.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Bali

After spending a month exploring nearly every corner of the island, we can honestly say there’s no single “best” place to stay in Bali — it all depends on what kind of trip you’re after.

Each area has its own vibe: Canggu for cafés and surf, Seminyak for convenience, Uluwatu for beaches, Ubud for nature, Bedugul for mountain air, and Amed for peace and ocean views.

And if you’re still unsure where to stay in Bali, our honest advice is simple — try a mix of two or three areas. You’ll see just how diverse Bali really is, from beach sunsets to misty jungles and calm mountain mornings.