Where to Stay in Bali: Best Areas & How to Plan Your Trip

If it's your first time in Bali, start with our full guide before choosing where to stay.

Bali isn't a one-base destination and where you will stay will completely shape your trip. Here are some of the most popular areas in Bali you’ve likely come across while planning your trip. Each of these offers a completely different experience depending on your travel style.

If you haven't already booked your flight into Denpasar Airport in Bali be sure to check out availability below.

Ubud

Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by lush jungle, rice terraces, and traditional villages that give you a real sense of the island’s identity. It’s one of the most popular areas to visit—and for good reason. From stunning rice fields like Tegallalang to beautiful temples and powerful waterfalls, there’s an incredible amount to see and do within a short distance.

What makes Ubud special is the balance it strikes. You get authentic Balinese culture, peaceful natural landscapes, and immersive experiences, while still having plenty of cafés, restaurants, and English-friendly spots that make travelling easy. It’s a place where you can explore during the day and unwind in a calm, scenic setting by night.

We’d recommend spending 2–3 days here as part of a wider trip depending on your itinerary. The main town itself can be very busy and overwhelming so this should feel like the right amount of time. 

We stayed for 2 days and comfortably got round everything we wanted. If you’re planning your visit, check out our full 2-day Ubud itinerary—and if you’re considering somewhere incredibly special to stay, don’t miss The Kayon Jungle Resort. It was a highlight of our honeymoon for a reason.

If you are staying at the Kayon I’d recommend booking cheaper accommodation close to Ubud for 1-2 nights as you will find it more convenient and you won’t be spending all that money on a resort which you are leaving for excursions. 

Uluwatu 

Uluwatu sits on the southwestern tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula and is easily one of the island’s most visually striking areas. Known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and hidden beaches, it offers a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere that works perfectly for couples, solo travellers, and even small groups. Evenings here are a highlight, with live music, sunset drinks, and beach clubs delivering great vibes without the chaos of places like Canggu. This was the place for us where we fell in love with the Balinese nightlife. 

The beaches are what truly define Uluwatu. Many are tucked beneath limestone cliffs and accessed via steep steps, making them feel more exclusive and unspoiled. Spots like Padang Padang and Bingin are not only beautiful but also world-famous for surfing. Uluwatu is a hotspot for experienced surfers thanks to its powerful reef breaks, though beginners can still get involved on smaller days with local instructors.

Whether you’re there to surf, relax, or simply soak up the views, Uluwatu offers a perfect blend of natural beauty that makes it one of Bali’s most memorable places to stay.

Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is Bali’s most polished and purpose-built resort enclave, located on the southeastern coast of the Bukit Peninsula. Developed as a dedicated tourism zone, it’s home to a high concentration of luxury beachfront resorts, wide manicured boulevards, and some of the calmest, swimmable beaches on the island.  

Unlike areas such as Canggu or Ubud, Nusa Dua is all about relaxation, comfort, and convenience. Everything is contained within the resort area, making it ideal for couples, honeymooners, and families looking for a stress-free, upscale stay with world-class facilities right on their doorstep.

Some of the hotel chains include the incredible Apurva Kempinski which we can highly recommend, (read our guide here) the Grand Hyatt, the Mulia and the Conrad.

Canggu

Canggu is Bali’s trendiest hotspot, known for its laid-back surf culture, buzzing café scene, and vibrant nightlife. It’s particularly popular with younger travellers and digital nomads, offering a mix of beach clubs, co-working spaces, and some of the best food spots on the island. The atmosphere here is social and energetic, especially around sunset when the beach bars come alive.

The beaches in Canggu are more rugged, with black sand and consistent waves that make it a great place for surfing. While it’s not as polished or scenic as Uluwatu, it makes up for it with personality. If you’re looking for good food, a lively scene, and somewhere to meet people, Canggu is a great addition to your Bali itinerary.

Sidemen

Sidemen offers a completely different side of Bali—quiet, traditional, and surrounded by some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes. Often compared to what Ubud used to be, this peaceful valley is filled with rice terraces, jungle, and views of Mount Agung in the distance. It’s the perfect place to slow down and escape the busier tourist areas.

There’s not a huge amount to “do” here in the traditional sense, but that’s exactly the appeal. Spend your time walking through the rice fields, relaxing at your hotel, or simply soaking in the scenery. If you’re looking for authenticity and tranquillity, Sidemen is one of the most underrated places in Bali.

If you are planning a longer trip (2 weeks plus) we would recommend spending some time in Sidemen as it’s further out from Denpasar airport but you’ll be able to work that in without losing too much precious holiday time commuting. 

Seminyak

Seminyak is a more refined and upscale alternative to Canggu, offering stylish beach clubs, high-end restaurants, and boutique shopping. It’s a great option for couples or travellers looking for a balance between relaxation and a more polished social scene. The sunsets here are a highlight, best enjoyed with a drink in hand at one of the many beachfront venues.

While it still has nightlife, it feels more relaxed and sophisticated compared to the livelier areas nearby. You’ll find plenty of excellent dining options, from local cuisine to international fine dining. If you want a touch of luxury without going full resort mode, Seminyak fits the bill perfectly.

Accommodation Options

Bali offers incredible value for all budgets. You can find high-quality resorts at affordable prices and private villas with pools for a fraction of what you’d pay in Europe or North America.

For Ubud, we stayed at Beehouse Dijiwa Ubud, which made an excellent base for exploring the area. The 4-star villa offered stunning views over the rice terraces, especially at sunset. During our September 2025 honeymoon, we booked a villa for £230 for two nights with breakfast included—a real steal for such a central location.

In Uluwatu, we stayed at White Tortoise Eco Villas, a beautiful property with a private pool. Our two-night stay also came to £230, offering a luxurious experience without the hefty price tag.

Tip: Accommodation in Bali can fill up fast, particularly during peak season. Always check availability early to secure the best options.

How to Plan Your Trip

Not sure how long to stay in each area? Here’s exactly how we’d structure your trip based on your timeframe.

If you are working your trip around only having 7 days or less and want to explore as much as possible on a tighter budget we would recommend staying in Ubud for 1-2 days before travelling to Uluwatu for 2-3 days and spending the rest of your holiday in Seminyak where you’ll be in close proximity to the airport for your commute home. 

If you are looking for a hybrid holiday and wanting to spend time in a resort mixed in with authentic Balinese jungle culture and some beach time look no further than the Kayon Jungle Resort. This is ideal for 3-5 days where you can either book a driver and experience Ubud in a day or 2 whilst staying at Kayon or opting for cheaper accommodation for a night. 

You’ll then want to move onto one of the beach villages or towns. We would recommend Uluwatu as the beaches are nice golden sands and its close proximity to Denpasar airport. This will allow you to get the most out of your trip, reducing commute time, experiencing the best rated resort on the island (according to Tripadvisor) as well as getting time in the jungle, and beach time with vibrant nightlife. It covers jungle, beach and nightlife in one trip.

If you have 8-14 days then you can branch out to finish your trip in a luxury resort in Nusa Dua. We opted to start at the Kayon Resort and finish at the Apurva Kempinski Resort, whilst staying at more budget accommodation in between allowing us to spend days exploring rice terraces, waterfalls, markets and beaches. 

This worked perfectly as having the high end resort relaxation before and after the long commutes in and out of Bali provided the perfect balance. 

We also found the Kayon Jungle Resort and the Apurva Kempinski entirely different experiences, one a more intimate romantic boutique style resort and the other a grand scale big brand luxury resort. 

If you have 2 weeks or longer in Bali we would recommend looking at fitting in Sidemen. Whilst there isn’t loads to do you’ll be able to find great resorts at reasonable prices and enjoy the authentic Balinese culture, food and  tranquil vibes typical of Bali from many years back before tourism dominated many towns and villages in the island. 

Canggu is a good option if you are looking at staying much longer, as a backpacker or digital nomad. 

If you love to find the most photogenic spots read our guide on the 17 Most Beautiful & Aesthetic Places in Bali You Can’t Miss. 

Bali Travel FAQ

1. What is the best time to visit Bali?
The dry season, from April to October, is the most popular time to visit. Expect sunny days, lower humidity, and ideal conditions for beaches, hiking, and sightseeing. The wet season (November–March) brings heavy rainfall and occasional flooding, but prices are lower and crowds are smaller.

2. How many days should I spend in Bali?

• 7 days or less: Focus on Ubud (1–2 days), Uluwatu (2–3 days), and Seminyak for a mix of jungle, beaches, and nightlife.
• 8–14 days: Include Nusa Dua for luxury resort relaxation or extend your stay in Ubud and Uluwatu for a deeper experience.
• 2 weeks or more: Add Sidemen to experience authentic, quiet Bali away from the tourist crowds.

3. What areas are best for different types of travelers?

• Ubud: Culture, rice terraces, temples, and peaceful jungle retreats.
• Uluwatu: Stunning beaches, surfing, and dramatic cliffside sunsets.
• Nusa Dua: Luxury resorts, calm beaches, and stress-free family holidays.
• Canggu: Surfing, cafés, nightlife, and a social atmosphere.
• Seminyak: Upscale beach clubs, fine dining, and boutique shopping.
• Sidemen: Quiet, scenic landscapes, and authentic Balinese culture.

4. How much does accommodation cost in Bali?
You can find budget stays for under £50 per night, mid-range villas with private pools for around £100–£200, and luxury resorts starting from £250+ per night. Prices vary with season and location, so booking early is recommended.

5. Do I need a visa for Bali?
Most travelers from Europe, the US, and many other countries can get a visa on arrival for up to 30 days. Check the latest Indonesian visa rules before your trip, as regulations can change.

6. How do I get around Bali?

• Private drivers: Convenient for day trips and island exploration.
• Scooter rentals: Popular for short distances, especially in Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak.
• Ride-hailing apps: Grab and Gojek are widely used for taxis and food delivery.

7. Are Bali’s beaches safe for swimming?
Some beaches, like Nusa Dua, have calm waters ideal for swimming. Others, such as Uluwatu and Canggu, are better for surfing due to strong currents and reef breaks. Always follow local safety signs and advice from lifeguards.

8. What should I pack for Bali?
Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a light rain jacket during the wet season. For temple visits, bring clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

9. Is Bali kid-friendly?
Yes! Areas like Nusa Dua and some resorts in Ubud cater well to families. Beaches are calm, resorts have kids’ facilities, and cultural activities can be educational and fun for children.