Bali accommodation could be anything from a private villa to a 5 star resort to a bungalow in the rice fields. It really has some of the most diverse accommodation options available. We have stayed in a bit of everything, from huts on the beach to boutique hotels and villas to 5 star sprawling resorts and everything in between. So we created this guide to help you find and book the best Bali accommodation for your Bali holiday.
Where Stay in Bali? There are many areas in Bali to stay, and they can be very different to each other. They all have their pro’s and con’s depending on what you are wanting to get out of your Bali holiday.
- Kuta
Kuta is probably the most touristy place in Bali. It is filled with shops and markets, bars and clubs. Whilst I think it’s worth a look, I wouldn’t recommend staying here unless this is the area you want to spend your time, or unless your after cheap accommodation (but you don’t really need to be in Kuta to get cheap accommodation in Bali). - Legian
Legian is slightly less full on than Kuta, but my pick for this area would be Seminyak. It’s known as the more ‘trendy’ area, with more boutique style shops, trendy bars and a wide range of dining options from local warungs to world renowned restaurants. If you want to be close to this area, but a little more remote, I would suggest Canggu (about 20 minutes drive from Seminyak) or Umalas (about 10 minutes drive from Seminyak). - Seminyak
Seminyak is one of the most popular areas to stay in Bali. Brimming with delicious restaurants, beach bars, boutique shops, beaches and not to far from the Airport, it’s easy to see why. All this brings the crowds, so on the other side expect lots of tourists and busy streets. That’s not to say that you can’t find your little piece of tranquility in Seminyak, and one of the best ways to do this is through the Seminyak accommodation that you choose. So figuring out where to stay in Seminyak is an important part of planning your holiday to Bali, to make sure you get the best Bali experience. - Jimbaran
Jimbaran consist of great beachfront resorts overlooking the pristine bay, with well-manicured gardens and appealing five-star services and facilities. Most are located around the main fishing village area of Jimbaran, while some others are located throughout the Bukit peninsula, fringed by white limestone cliffs that provide even more stunning ocean views, and share the vicinity with among the island’s world-class surf spots. - Uluwatu
Uluwatu is popular for surfing, this area has great beaches (not all for swimming), stunning views and is remote whilst still having some quality facilities (mainly within hotels) in the area. Uluwatu is home to some of Bali’s most luxurious accommodation, whilst also having a few home stay and more basic/relaxed options. - Ubud
Ubud consist of a selection of the most relaxing retreats in Bali, thanks to its cool upland location with scenic mountain vistas and flowing green valleys as added bonuses, and being in the artistic and cultural heart of the island. They also come in a rich variety, from luxury villas with outdoor dip pools, resort grounds that were designed to mimic terraced rice fields. Ubud itself is pretty filled with tourists, traffic, shops and restaurants and yoga facilities. - Nusa Dua and Tanjung Benoa
Nusa Dua and Tanjung Benoa hotels comprise among the most beautiful and sophisticated beachfront resorts in Bali, mostly with landscaped tropical gardens that border the shared total stretch of 7 km of white sand along the south-eastern peninsula. - Sanur
Sanur is one of the oldest resort towns in Bali, Sanur is much quieter than Seminyak/Kuta, and with a more local feel. Great area for families or for a more relaxing trip. Accommodation can range from budget to resorts, but there are less uber luxurious options here. - Lovina
Situated in Northern Bali, this area is relaxed and laid-back, a place to slow down and have lazy days. The accommodation is more affordable here but also more simplistic. - Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is an island off Bali, that is full of natural beauty, less tourists, beautiful waters and a much more peaceful and relaxing side to Bali. Accommodation here varies from beach huts to amazing villas. - Off the Beaten Track
It’s definitely worthwhile staying somewhere off the beaten track, even just for a night or two. Often, this is where you will find the real beauty in Bali. Places like Sideman, Munduk, Nusa Ceningan.
