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

Uluwatu is easily one of the most beautiful corners of Bali — a place where dramatic cliffs meet turquoise waves, mornings start slow, and sunsets steal the show every night.

After our first visit, we kept coming back for the laid-back vibe, incredible surf spots, and relatively calm traffic compared to Canggu’s daily chaos. And to be honest, we absolutely fell in love with this part of the island.

Even though Uluwatu beaches are not ideal for snorkeling, they make up for it with epic surf breaks, ultimate sunsets, and some of the island’s most breathtaking viewpoints, such as Karang Boma Cliff.

If snorkeling is your thing, check out Amed beaches — that’s where Bali’s best underwater spots are.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Uluwatu, this guide will help you decide. After staying in multiple areas and exploring almost all corners, we’ve gathered our honest recommendations on the best hotel to stay in Uluwatu — from stylish cliffside resorts to cozy villas close to the beach.

Where to stay in Uluwatu: Our experience

The very first time we came to Uluwatu — driving all the way from Canggu (which took almost two hours in traffic, so be prepared) — we stayed in the Uluwatu / Suluban Beach area. Back then, we were backpackers, looking for something affordable, quiet at night, but still close to the beaches, surf spots, and restaurants.

It turned out to be a great choice. We rented a scooter for our whole Bali trip and highly recommend doing the same — it’s the easiest way to get around hills and beach roads. This area is one of the best for first-time visitors who want to experience the classic vibe without being too far from the action.

For our second visit, we stayed in the Padang Padang / Bingin area, which remains the most popular place — and for good reason. It’s where you’ll find the best cafés, restaurants, and boutique hotels, all within a few minutes of several beaches and most of the best things to do in Uluwatu.

Just keep in mind that Bingin Beach itself was affected by a government-led demolition in mid-2025, which changed the area quite a bit — we’ll explain more about that later in this post.

The vibe is lively, and it’s ideal if you don’t want to drive far every day. What we learned here is that location matters more than hotel size — being close to good food and beaches saves a ton of time. We’d skip staying in central Bukit, even if prices look tempting — it’s not that scenic and you’ll spend more time on the road than at the beach.

Our third stay was in the Balangan area, which felt completely different. Much quieter, more local, and perfect for slower days. It’s not the most convenient for restaurants or nightlife, but if you’re after peace and views, Balangan is a great base.

Staying there taught us that sometimes the best part of Uluwatu is doing less — just enjoying the scenery without rushing anywhere.

We haven’t stayed overnight in South Uluwatu / Ungasan yet, but after exploring the area’s cliffs and hidden beaches, it’s high on our list for next time. It feels more upscale and secluded — with panoramic ocean views, private villas, and beach clubs like Sundays and Karma — a totally different vibe worth trying once you’ve seen the main spots.

After staying in a few different corners of the peninsula, we’ve realized how much your experience changes depending on the area. So before booking, it’s worth thinking about what kind of trip you want — lively and social, or quiet and scenic. Here’s what we learned about each area and which hotels we’d actually recommend.

Best areas to stay in Uluwatu

Before we dive in, here’s a quick map showing the best areas to stay in Uluwatu so you can easily picture where everything is. It gives you a clear idea of how the main spots line up — from lively Padang Padang and Bingin to the quieter cliffs of Ungasan and Balangan — and helps you decide which part fits your trip best.

Padang Padang & Bingin Area (Labuan Sait Road)

If you’re deciding where to stay in Uluwatu, this is still the best all-round base — even with the recent changes at Bingin Beach. In July 2025, a government-led demolition of around 48 cliffside buildings caused significant damage to the beach area, and access is currently very limited.

So while staying at Bingin Beach isn’t an option right now, the area above — along Labuan Sait Road — remains completely untouched and is still the heart of Uluwatu’s café and restaurant scene.

This is where most travelers end up staying — and for good reason. You’ll find some of the best places to stay in Uluwatu, plus the liveliest dining scene. You can enjoy morning smoothie bowls at Overhead Bar, sunset drinks at The Cashew Tree, and cozy dinners at Gooseberry.

You can walk to Padang Padang Beach in minutes or drive to Dreamland Beach and Uluwatu Temple within a short scooter ride.

The only downside? Roads are narrow and traffic can get busy around sunset, especially near popular cafés. But if you want to be close to everything without losing that laid-back Bali feeling, this area is hard to beat.

✅ Pros: Central location, great food scene, walkable to several beaches
❌ Cons: Can get busy, limited parking near the beaches
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors, couples, and anyone who wants a lively but relaxed base

Uluwatu (Suluban & Uluwatu Temple Area)

This is the area that most people picture when they think of Uluwatu — dramatic cliffs, turquoise waves, and that legendary Single Fin sunset view. We stayed here on our first visit and loved how peaceful it felt. It’s the best area to experience the real surf-town atmosphere and catch those postcard sunsets without being surrounded by big resorts.

You’re close to Suluban Beach, Uluwatu Temple, and some of the island’s most famous surf breaks. It’s a great base if you plan to explore the nearby cliff viewpoints or want to watch surfers from the warungs along the edge.

The area is compact, so you’ll want a scooter for getting to other beaches or restaurants — it’s not as café-packed as Padang Padang or Bingin, but still enough for everyday life.

At night, things quiet down except around Single Fin, which can get loud on Sundays. Still, we’d happily stay here again for the views alone — it’s pure Uluwatu magic.

✅ Pros: Epic sunsets, surf breaks, and stunning cliff views
❌ Cons: Fewer cafés, hilly roads, nightlife noise on Sundays
⭐️ Best for: Surfers, sunset lovers, and anyone who wants that classic Uluwatu experience

Balangan Area

If you’re after a slower, more local vibe, Balangan Beach might be the spot for you. It’s one of the most scenic beaches on the Bukit Peninsula, with a long stretch of golden sand, calm cliffs, and a laid-back vibe that feels miles away from the busier places. We stayed here on our third visit and loved waking up to ocean views.

There aren’t many cafés or restaurants around, but that’s part of the charm — you’ll find a few simple warungs along the beach and plenty of space to unwind. It’s also a great spot to watch surfers or catch sunset from the cliff viewpoint.

Getting here takes about 10–15 minutes by scooter from the main Padang Padang area, so it’s easy enough to reach other beaches when you want more action.

If you’re looking for nightlife or café hopping, this isn’t your area. But for slow mornings, quiet evenings, and real Bali vibes, Balangan still feels authentic.

✅ Pros: Peaceful, authentic atmosphere, amazing sunsets, scenic beach
❌ Cons: Limited cafés, a bit far from main areas
⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, photographers, and anyone who wants a calm, local stay

Ungasan & South Uluwatu

If you’re after peace, ocean views, and a more upscale stay, the Ungasan and South Uluwatu area might be exactly what you’re looking for. It feels completely different from the other parts — quieter, greener, and lined with some of the island’s most impressive villas and luxury resorts like Sundays Beach Club, Karma Beach, and The Edge.

We didn’t stay overnight here yet, but after exploring the cliffs and beaches, it quickly went on our list for next time. The roads are calm, the sunsets are unreal, and it’s the kind of area made for slow mornings and long, lazy afternoons.

You’ll need a scooter or driver to reach the cafés and beaches further north, but the trade-off is total privacy and those dramatic views.

✅ Pros: Quiet, scenic, luxurious, amazing ocean views
❌ Cons: Farther from cafés, need your own transport
⭐️ Best for: Couples and families looking for a peaceful, high-end escape

Best hotels in Uluwatu

This list includes the places we think are worth staying in. After spending time in different parts of the area and checking out countless stays, these are the ones that stood out for their comfort, atmosphere, and overall experience.

Whether you’re here for the beaches, surfing, or to unwind, these are the places we’d honestly book ourselves.

Padang Padang & Bingin Area (Labuan Sait Road)

This is still our favorite base — lively but laid-back, with cafés, boutique hotels, and beaches all within minutes. Even after the 2025 Bingin Beach demolition, the area above the cliffs remains the heart of the food and social scene.

• Medori Putih Homestay $
• Mule Malu Tropical Stay $$
• PinkCoco $$$

Medori Putih Homestay $

Medori Putih Homestay is a great budget stay in the Padang Padang / Bingin area, offering simple comfort and quiet surroundings just a few minutes from the main beaches. It stands out for its two pools, leafy garden vibe, and easy walkability — a rare combo for this price range in Uluwatu.

Rooms are basic but clean, breakfast is decent, and you’re just a short scooter ride from the area’s best cafés and surf spots. It’s perfect if you want something affordable and local without being stuck too far from the action.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a peaceful, well-located base near Padang Padang
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Mule Malu Tropical Stay $$

Mule Malu Tropical Stay is one of those places that instantly makes you slow down. Hidden among tropical gardens near Bingin, it’s a peaceful mid-range stay with a calm atmosphere, stylish design, and a lovely pool that feels made for slow, sunny afternoons.

The rooms are bright and minimal in the best way, with soft tones and just enough style to feel special. The staff are incredibly kind and welcoming, and it’s close to restaurants, shops, and the beach, yet still feels quiet and cozy once you’re inside. If you’re after a relaxing stay that feels both personal and polished, this is it.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a calm, stylish hideaway close to everything
👉 Check availability and current prices →

PinkCoco Uluwatu $$$ (Our Top Pick)

PinkCoco is one of those places that makes you instantly feel like you’re on holiday. It’s our top pick because it perfectly balances everything — location, comfort, and atmosphere. The hotel sits just a short walk from Padang Padang Beach, surrounded by cafés and restaurants, yet once you step inside, it feels calm and private.

The design is playful but elegant, with pink touches, tropical gardens, and two beautiful pools where you can swim 24 hours a day. The rooms are a good size, cleaned twice daily, and the beds are super comfortable.

The staff are incredibly kind, and the service is top-notch. What really makes PinkCoco stand out, though, is the vibe — adults-only, stylish, and full of those little touches that make a stay memorable.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and friends who want a fun, stylish, and social adults-only stay near Padang Padang
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Uluwatu (Suluban & Uluwatu Temple Area)

We stayed here on our first visit and loved the views, sunsets, and quiet evenings once the crowds left. It’s the best spot if you want that classic feeling with cliffs, waves, and unbeatable scenery.

• Waroeng Surya $
• La Kreyiol $$
• IKIGAI Uluwatu Beach $$$

Waroeng Surya Home Stay $

We stayed at Waroeng Surya during our very first trip, and it turned out to be one of those stays that surprised us in the best way. It’s a simple budget homestay run by a local family, tucked along a quiet road just a few minutes from Padang Padang Beach.

The rooms are basic but clean, with air conditioning, a comfy bed, and everything you really need for a short stay. What made it special was the friendly, genuine hosts who treated us like family — we still remember chatting with them over morning coffee before heading out to explore.

The location is great too. Close to restaurants and beaches, yet peaceful enough to actually get a good night’s sleep.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a local, welcoming stay
👉 Check availability and current prices →

La Kreyiol (Adults-only) $$

La Kreyiol is one of those places that feel like a good find the moment you walk in. It’s a mid-range adults-only tropical stay tucked near Uluwatu Beach, with an atmosphere that’s hard to beat — relaxed, free-spirited, and peaceful. The staff are incredibly friendly, and they even offer on-site scooter rentals, so you don’t have to waste time looking elsewhere.

The rooms are spacious, beautifully designed, and very comfortable, with everything you need for a great stay. There’s also a villa with a private pool, perfect if you’re after a bit more space and privacy. Breakfast is delicious, and the pool area is the kind of spot where you’ll want to chill all morning.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a relaxed, beautifully designed stay with great service and easy access to main beaches
👉 Check availability and current prices →

IKIGAI Uluwatu Beach $$$ (Our Top Pick)

If we could only recommend one stay in this part of Uluwatu, it’d be IKIGAI — and here’s why. It’s an upscale boutique stay that perfectly blends style, comfort, and that calm Bali energy that makes you instantly relax. The hotel is very cozy and beautifully designed, with rooms full of small, thoughtful details.

The location couldn’t be better — right in the middle of the best area, close to Karang Boma Cliff, within walking distance to cafés, restaurants, and several beaches. The pool area is peaceful, the staff are genuinely kind, and the whole place has that chill vibe.

What makes IKIGAI stand out most is its balance — modern and refined, yet laid-back and welcoming. It’s a stay that feels as good as it looks, and easily one of the best hotels in Uluwatu.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and friends looking for a stylish, cozy, and upscale stay
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Balangan Area

Balangan has a slower, more local vibe — long beach walks, sunset cliffs, and simple warungs instead of crowds. It’s perfect if you’re after something calm and authentic.

• Rumah Menik $
• Balangan Hotel $$
• Jumeirah Bali $$$

Rumah Menik $

We stayed at Rumah Menik during our third visit and were really impressed by the value for money. It’s a simple but beautifully kept homestay, tucked in a quiet area, a short scooter ride from the main beaches. It’s not walkable to the beach, but we didn’t mind at all — with a scooter, getting around was super easy, and what we got for the price felt like a great deal.

The rooms are clean, bright, and comfortable. The owners were incredibly kind and helpful, always ready with local tips and a smile. It’s peaceful, safe, and ideal if you’re looking for an affordable base without sacrificing comfort.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a quiet, comfortable stay with great value and friendly hosts
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Balangan Hotel $$ (Our Top Pick)

If we stayed in Balangan again, this is the hotel we’d book without thinking twice. The Balangan Hotel has that ideal mix of comfort, price, and location — close to Balangan Beach. It’s a mid-range stay with a lovely pool and plenty of space to unwind after a beach day.

The rooms are bright, clean, and spacious, with balconies overlooking the garden or pool. Everything feels relaxed and easygoing, and the staff are genuinely warm and welcoming. You can walk to a few local warungs or hop on a scooter to reach cafés and restaurants nearby — it’s the perfect base if you want peace but still be close to the beach.

It’s comfortable, affordable, and has that quiet charm that makes Balangan special — easily our top pick in this area.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travellers looking for a comfortable, quiet stay close to Balangan Beach
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Jumeirah Bali $$$ (Our Top Pick for Luxury Lovers)

If you’re after something truly special, Jumeirah Bali is the kind of place that defines luxury. Set high above the cliffs near Dreamland and Balangan, it’s an upscale resort where every detail feels designed for complete relaxation — from the infinity pools overlooking the ocean to the lush gardens and serene walkways that make you forget the outside world exists.

The villas are huge, elegant, and incredibly private, each with its own pool and sweeping views of the sea or tropical landscape. Service here is next level — warm, attentive, and effortless, just as you’d expect from Jumeirah. The spa and wellness facilities are exceptional, and the restaurants serve fresh, beautifully presented dishes that make dining part of the experience.

It’s undeniably one of the best luxury hotels in Uluwatu, perfect for honeymoons, special occasions, or simply spoiling yourself with peace, privacy, and world-class comfort.

⭐️ Best for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and anyone wanting a world-class cliffside retreat
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Ungasan & South Uluwatu

Peaceful, scenic, and a bit more upscale — this part of Uluwatu is made for lazy mornings and ocean views. It’s quieter than the central areas, with a few incredible villas and resorts hidden along the cliffs.

• Cove D Ancak $
• Nunamkhalu Private Villa and Spa $$
• The Ungasan Clifftop Resort $$$

Cove D Ancak Villa and Bungalow $

Cove D Ancak is a budget-friendly stay near Pandawa and Melasti Beaches that’s quiet, tropical, and great value for money. The bungalows are bright, surrounded by greenery with a small pool and garden, perfect for relaxing after the beach.

The staff are friendly and easygoing, and the location is peaceful but still just a few minutes by scooter from the beaches. Rooms come with air conditioning and comfortable beds — simple, clean, and cozy, exactly what you want for a laid-back stay in Uluwatu.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers looking for a peaceful, well-priced stay on the south coast
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Nunamkhalu Private Villa and Spa $$ (Our Top Pick)

Nunamkhalu Private Villa and Spa is a peaceful retreat in the southern hills of Uluwatu, offering the privacy of your own pool villa at a fair price. It’s calm, spacious, and ideal for anyone who wants to unwind in quiet surroundings without sacrificing comfort.

The staff are warm and welcoming, and the restaurant has a cozy, relaxed vibe that makes it worth dining there. Breakfasts are excellent — especially the smoothie bowls — and there’s a good mix of dishes throughout the day. A free shuttle to the beach and supermarket adds extra convenience.

The only downside is the lack of nearby restaurants open for dinner, but with a scooter or Grab, getting around is easy. Overall, it’s a great-value villa stay for those seeking space, comfort, and genuine hospitality in South Uluwatu.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or friends wanting a private, comfortable villa stay with great service and peaceful surroundings
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Ungasan Clifftop Resort $$$ (Our Top Pick for Luxury Lovers)

The Ungasan Clifftop Resort is where you go when you want something truly unforgettable. Perched high above the ocean on dramatic cliffs, it’s an ultra-luxury resort that delivers on every level — privacy, comfort, and views that are hard to beat.

Each villa comes with a private pool, spacious open layout, and elegant design that blends modern luxury with Bali’s natural beauty.

The staff are exceptional, the restaurant feels exclusive, ideal for slow breakfasts or sunset dinners. You’ll also have access to Sundays Beach Club, one of Bali’s best spots for oceanfront lounging and cocktails by the sea.

If you’re looking to spoil yourself or celebrate something special, this is the stay to remember.

⭐️ Best for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and anyone wanting a private, world-class stay with ocean views
👉 Check availability and current prices →

FAQ about the best places to stay in

Where should first-time visitors stay in Uluwatu?

If there’s one area we’d recommend for your first trip, it’s Padang Padang & Bingin. It’s close to the beaches, full of great cafés, and has that classic energy that makes you fall in love with the place straight away.

What are the best adults-only hotels in Uluwatu?

If we had to recommend a few adults-only stays, Kalia Bingin, PinkCoco, and La Kreyiol are the ones to look at. Kalia Bingin is stylish and intimate; PinkCoco is fun and social, with the perfect location near Padang Padang; and La Kreyiol offers a calm, beautifully designed setting that feels private and relaxed.

Where to stay in Uluwatu for nightlife?

If you’re looking for the liveliest evenings, stay near the Padang Padang & Bingin area (Labuan Sait Road). This stretch offers the best access to beach clubs, surf bars, and sunset spots like Single Fin, while still being close enough to restaurants and cafés for pre- or post-drinks.

What are the best places to stay in Uluwatu with kids?

If you’re traveling with kids, The Dreamland by The Young Villas and Mazari Villas are two we’d recommend. Both offer spacious private pool villas with kitchens and plenty of room to relax, making them ideal for families who want comfort, privacy, and easy access to the beach.

What are the best 5-star hotels in Uluwatu?

For a truly luxurious stay, we’d recommend Bvlgari Resort Bali, Jumeirah Bali, and The Ungasan Clifftop Resort. All three combine incredible cliffside views with world-class service, private pools, and elegant design — the kind of places that turn a Bali trip into something unforgettable.

Final thoughts on where to stay in Uluwatu

After staying in different parts, we realized there’s no single “best” area — it just depends on what you’re after. For cafés, beaches, and a social vibe, Padang Padang & Bingin are the most convenient.

For sunsets and cliff views, Uluwatu (Suluban) is unbeatable. And if you’re after something quieter, Balangan and Ungasan offer a slower, more peaceful side of the peninsula.

Wherever you stay, having a scooter makes exploring much easier — distances look short, but traffic can surprise you. What we loved most was that every area has its own charm, from laid-back surf cafés to hidden beach views. Choose the one that fits your pace, and you’ll have a trip that feels unforgettable.