Bali Hotels › Best Places To Stay
Updated: December 26, 2025
My Favorite Hotels in Bali
• Ubud: Four Seasons • Viceroy
• Nusa Dua: St. Regis
• Jimbaran: Four Seasons
• Seminyak: W Bali
• Legian: Padma
• Kuta: Hard Rock
• Sanur: Tandjung Sari
• For couples: Poppies
• For families: Hard Rock • Padma
See Also
A private pool villa at Raffles Bali in Jimbaran. Our favorite new resort in Bali.
The Best Areas to Stay in Bali
Bali is truly paradise, with rice terraces cascading down verdant volcanic slopes, flaming sunsets dripping over powdery-white sands, and a unique and omnipresent culture that dominates the island and its people despite the continued growth of tourism. The island is appreciated by some 3-4 million Indonesian and foreign tourists each year, almost doubling the population at times. Some savor the surf, shopping, and clubbing in Kuta, while others relish spiritual and cultural pursuits in Ubud. Many come specifically to enjoy one of Bali’s best 5-star hotels and others to explore some of the best beaches in Bali. There are water sports and scuba diving, mountainous landscapes, and millennium-old temples.
Large family-friendly resorts, like the Westin, are abundant in the beach community of Nusa Dua.
Bali looks small on a map, but traffic is brutal. You can day-trip to most spots, but expect to spend hours in the car if you are based in the south. So, to avoid too much unnecessary travel, choose your base carefully (see below) and don’t be tempted to move between bases more than once every 4 or 5 days.
Public transport in tourist areas is often non-existent and always crowded, but privately-owned shuttle buses are plentiful and comfortable. It’s also easy to find taxis (except in Ubud) and charter a car with driver for only US$50 per day – this is great value and the driver will act as a personal travel guide (albeit, with imperfect English). Intense traffic, absent road signs and narrow potholed roads are three excellent reasons why you should never rent a car and drive yourself.
The Best Places to Stay in Bali
The Hard Rock Hotel in Kuta is fantastic for families.
- Best Luxury Hotels in Bali
Four Seasons at Sayan (Ubud) • St. Regis (Nusa Dua) • W Bali (Seminyak) • Four Seasons Resort (Jimbaran) • Padma (Legian) • Raffles (Jimbaran) • Laguna (Nusa Dua) • Ritz-Carlton (Bukit)- Best Cheap/Midrange Hotels in Bali
Dasa Wana (Candidasa) • Ganesh Lodge (Candidasa) • CalmTree (Canggu) • The Palms (Canggu) • D’byas (Nusa Lembongan Island) • Song Lambung (Nusa Lembongan Island) • Akaya (Sanur) • ARTOTEL (Sanur) • Klumpu (Sanur) • Nick’s Pension (Ubud)- Best Hotels in Bali for Couples
Tandjung Sari (Sanur) • Viceroy (Ubud) • Alam Indah (Ubud) • Tugu (Canggu) • Ecozy Dijiwa (Canggu) • Jimbaran Puri (Jimbaran) • Poppies (Kuta) • Aquaria Eco Resort (Candidasa) • Tamarind (Nusa Lembongan Island)- Best Hotels in Bali for Families
Padma (Legian) • Andaz (Sanur) • Hard Rock (Kuta) • Mövenpick (Jimbaran) • Sofitel (Nusa Dua) • Westin (Nusa Dua) • Hyatt Regency (Sanur) • Anantara Vacation Club (Legian) • Grand Mirage (Tanjung Benoa)Best Place in Bali for Couples or a Honeymoon: Jimbaran
While Nusa Dua resorts heavily market honeymoon packages, they are often overrun with families and large tour groups. For true romance and tranquility, I recommend Jimbaran. The high-end resorts here, such as the Four Seasons and Raffles, specialize in privacy and secluded villa living. The long, golden-sand bay remains one of the island’s most beautiful spots for a sunset stroll, and unlike the busy west coast beaches, it feels remarkably spacious. Every evening, the shoreline transforms into a massive alfresco dining area. I suggest choosing one of the seafood cafés at the quieter southern end of the beach for a candlelit dinner of grilled snapper and prawns. It’s a quintessential Bali experience complete with wandering musicians and a front-row seat to the sunset.
Best Place in Bali for Sightseeing & Outdoor Activities: Ubud
Ubud remains the premier base for exploring the island’s cultural and natural interior. Beyond its world-class dining, the town has developed a sophisticated live music scene, with venues like No Más and the annual Ubud Village Jazz Festival drawing international talent. For sightseeing, I always recommend chartering a private car and driver for the day; it’s the most efficient way to reach the 11th-century cliff shrines of Gunung Kawi or the sprawling Jatiluwih rice terraces. Ubud is also the best starting point for active travelers. Most white-water rafting on the Ayung River and Mount Batur sunrise treks include free transfers from Ubud hotels, saving you the two-hour pre-dawn commute required from the beach towns. Note that while Ubud is perfect for the jungle and mountains, it is a poor choice if your trip focuses on surfing or diving, as the nearest coastline is at least an hour’s drive away.
The Viceroy hotel in Ubud.
Best Place in Bali for Nightlife: Canggu • Seminyak • Uluwatu
The center of gravity for Bali’s nightlife has shifted away from Kuta toward the north and the far south. Canggu is currently the island’s most energetic hub, anchored by massive beachfront venues like Finns and Atlas Beach Fest. For a more underground or late-night party vibe, the bars along Jalan Batu Bolong are the place to be. Seminyak remains the best choice for a sophisticated night out, featuring high-end “speakeasy” cocktail bars and theatrical clubs like La Favela. For those seeking the “Instagram-famous” clifftop experience, Uluwatu is unbeatable. Venues like Savaya and Ulu Cliffhouse host world-class DJs on the edge of the limestone cliffs. I recommend booking daybeds well in advance for the major beach clubs, as the best spots sell out days ahead during the high season.
Best Place in Bali for Good Food and Restaurants: Seminyak
Seminyak remains the culinary capital of Bali. While Canggu has an incredible café culture, Seminyak offers the highest concentration of world-class fine dining and “Eat Street” staples. The narrow lanes are packed with legendary institutions like Mama San and Sarong, alongside modern favorites serving everything from authentic Greek to contemporary Japanese. For the best experience, I recommend heading to Jalan Laksmana (Eat Street) for dinner, but save your late afternoons for the beachfront. The stretch of sand between Double Six Beach and Petitenget is famous for its colorful beanbags and umbrellas where you can enjoy sunset cocktails and tapas. For a more upscale vibe, the iconic beach clubs like Potato Head and Kudeta offer sophisticated menus paired with front-row seats to Bali’s famous fiery sunsets.
Best Nearby Island: Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is a more accessible and authentic alternative to the Gili Islands. While it has grown more popular, it still maintains a laidback charm that the mainland has lost. The island has seen a “foodie revolution” recently, with specialty coffee shops and high-end organic cafés now lining the streets of Jungutbatu. While motorbikes are the standard way to get around, four-wheeled gasoline buggies (golf carts) are now widely available and are the best option for families or groups. It remains the premier spot for exploring mangrove forests, snorkeling with manta rays, and witnessing the power of the Devil’s Tears blowhole. Fast boats from Sanur take only 30 to 45 minutes. I recommend staying in Jungutbatu for the best sunsets and dining, or Mushroom Bay for a protected swimming cove. Be sure to cross the iconic Yellow Bridge to explore the even more rustic Nusa Ceningan next door.
Best Place in Bali for a Spiritual Visit: Ubud
Ubud is the spiritual heart of the island, and for 2026, the wellness scene has evolved into a world-class industry. Whether you are looking for Vinyasa flow, sound healing, or traditional Balinese “Balian” healers, Ubud is the only place to be. The village of Penestanan remains a quiet sanctuary for long-term seekers, but the action is centered around legendary institutions like The Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive. Modern wellness trends have also taken hold here; you will now find high-end centers offering infrared saunas, cold plunges, and breathwork workshops alongside traditional meditation. The food scene is equally dedicated to vitality, with iconic spots like Sayuri Healing Food and Clear Cafe serving innovative plant-based, organic, and raw cuisine. If you want a deep dive, I recommend booking a “silent retreat” or a multi-day detoxification program at one of the luxury resorts tucked into the jungle ravines outside the town center.
Best Village in Bali: Padangbai
Often ignored by those rushing to/from the Gili Islands by speedboat or hopping on/off the ferry to Lombok, Padangbai is delightfully unpretentious, with a genuine village vibe. Facing a postcard-perfect arched bay and hemmed in by hills, it has been spared the unrelenting hotel construction found elsewhere on the island. So, the cluster of streets is based around the school, market, and temples, rather than bars, clubs and bistros. A wonderful base from which to explore the east coast, Padangbai also boasts a 1000-year-old clifftop temple and Crusoe-esque beach called Blue Lagoon.
Jimbaran Beach in front of the InterContinental Bali Resort.
Best Place in Bali for First-Timers: Jimbaran or Sanur
Kuta and its neighbors, Legian and Seminyak, are often overwhelming for first-time visitors. Between the aggressive traffic, crowded lanes, and persistent hawkers, it’s easy to see why some people find the south too intense. For 2026, I recommend choosing between Jimbaran and Sanur based on your travel style. Sanur is the island’s most walkable coastal town, featuring a 6km-long beachfront path perfect for cycling and strolls. It has seen recent modernization with the Icon Bali Mall, yet it remains the “village” choice with calm, shallow water. Jimbaran, on the other hand, offers a more traditional feel with its active fish market and golden-sand bay. It’s closer to the airport and the dramatic cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula. Both areas provide a far gentler introduction to Bali than the chaotic west coast while still offering excellent dining and high-end resorts.
Best Place in Bali for Families: Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is the most stress-free destination for families, offering a gated, manicured environment with wide sidewalks and virtually no traffic. The resorts here are world leaders in family hospitality. I highly recommend The Westin Resort Nusa Dua for its dedicated freshwater kids’ pool and 12-meter slide, or The Mulia, which features specialized zones for both young children (Mulia Kidz) and teenagers (T-Zone). For an all-inclusive experience that handles everything from meals to circus lessons, Club Med Bali remains the top pick. Most resorts face a protected beach with shallow, calm water, making it the safest spot on the island for toddlers to swim. For 2026, watch for the opening of the Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace expansion, which offers multi-bedroom apartments with full kitchens – ideal for larger families. Just north in Tanjung Benoa, you’ll find more affordable resorts like the Grand Mirage, which boasts a massive “Family Paradise” wing with its own mini water park. This area is also the hub for parasailing and jet-skiing, making it a favorite for active teenagers.
Best Beach in Bali: Pasir Putih
Bali’s best beach is still remarkably undeveloped. Only 6km past Candidasa along the east coast, Pasir Putih (which means “White Sands”) has no hotels and only a handful of laid-back cafés on the bleached-white sand – and hopefully it stays that way. The sea is calm, and the curved bay is flanked by rocky outcrops, which offer snorkeling and shade, and backed by coconut groves. And, amazingly, half of the beach is still used as a fishing village. This slice of heaven is at the end of a scenic, flat 1.5km-long lane from the main road.
Most Underrated: Candikuning
Halfway between Kuta and Lovina, Candikuning is nestled alongside the mighty crater lake of Mount Bratan. With some of Bali’s best attractions, it’s worth staying a few days, if only for the cooler weather (which is often chilly at night). Must-sees include the (1) extensive botanical gardens, one of only four in Indonesia; (2) Bedugul lakeside recreational area, almost completely patronised by Indonesian tourists, with boat trips across the lake and water sports; (3) exquisite Pura Ulun Bratan temple facing the lapping waters; and (4) bustling produce market, specializing in strawberries and corn.
Most Unusual Place: Toya Bungkah
The village of Toya Bungkah is uniquely situated inside the massive caldera of Mount Batur, Bali’s most active volcano. It has become the island’s premier spot for post-adventure recovery. Currently, the two heavy hitters are Toya Devasya – a sprawling hot spring waterpark with an iconic purple-themed infinity pool – and Batur Natural Hot Spring, which offers a more tranquil, lakeside experience. Both feature mineral-rich, geothermal waters heated by the volcanic activity beneath your feet. While many still arrive on foot after the famous sunrise trek, a big recent trend is the Mount Batur Jeep Tour. These 4WD tours take you through the surreal black lava fields and up to the sunrise viewpoints before dropping you off at the springs for a soak. It’s a geologically spectacular area, with the towering walls of the crater surrounding you and the steam of the volcano visible on the horizon.
The Best Towns in Bali for Visitors
The main tourist areas across Bali (including the Gili Islands) are all different, with delightfully dissimilar locations and range of facilities. It is vital to choose a suitable base according to your interests (yoga or surfing?), age/family (backpackers or with kids?), budget (resorts or family-owned hotels?), and length of stay (three days or three months?).
1. Kuta & Tuban
Famed Kuta Beach – just across the beachfront road from Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort (luxury) and Kuta Seaview Boutique Resort (fantastic value).
Kuta remains Bali’s most famous stretch of sand, known for its world-class sunsets, high-energy nightlife, and beginner-friendly surf breaks. It’s the most convenient base for those who want to be close to the airport and major shopping hubs like Beachwalk. However, traffic in central Kuta remains a major challenge due to new one-way routing systems. To address years of erosion, a massive coastal restoration project is currently widening the beach and adding new pedestrian paths stretching north toward Seminyak. For a more relaxed experience, I recommend Tuban (South Kuta). It is quieter than the central strip and home to excellent family resorts like the Bali Dynasty. The sand here is darker and more volcanic than in Nusa Dua, but the atmosphere is far more local, with colorful traditional outriggers (jukung) still lining the shore. It’s the best of both worlds: easy access to Kuta’s malls and waterparks, but with a genuine village vibe once you retreat to your hotel.
• Best Hotels: Hard Rock • Poppies • Bali Garden • Sheraton • AlamKulkul • Bali Dynasty
2. Legian and Seminyak
The beach and infinity pool at the The Seminyak.
Just north of Kuta, Legian offers a significant upgrade in serenity while remaining within walking distance of the action. The highlight here is the beachfront pedestrian path, which allows you to walk from your resort to the sand without crossing a single busy road – a rarity in Bali. It’s the best area for those who want a wide, clean beach for sunset strolls but prefer a more relaxed, family-oriented vibe than Kuta. Further north, Seminyak is the island’s most sophisticated district. This is where you’ll find Bali’s most famous “Eat Street” (Jalan Laksmana) and high-end boutiques. The northern end of Seminyak (Petitenget) has become a major hub for luxury villas and iconic beach clubs like Potato Head and Kudeta. As you move toward the border of Canggu, the landscape begins to change; the sand turns to a darker volcanic gray and the dense rows of shops give way to a few remaining rice paddies, though these are rapidly being replaced by stylish new cafes and beach clubs.
• Best Hotels: W Bali • Padma • The Oberoi • Seminyak Beach Resort • The Bandha • Anantara Vacation Club
3. Canggu
The Como Uma Beach Club meters from the water.
Canggu is currently the island’s primary draw, having surpassed Seminyak in popularity. It’s a sprawling collection of coastal districts including Berawa, Batu Bolong, and Pererenan. The atmosphere is defined by a high-end “hipster” vibe, world-class specialty coffee, and a relentless digital nomad culture. While the sand is volcanic and dark, the surf breaks at Echo Beach and Old Man’s are legendary for all skill levels. For recent visits, I have to emphasize that traffic is the biggest hurdle; the narrow roads and infamous “shortcuts” are frequently gridlocked. I strongly recommend using scooters or ride-hailing apps like Gojek rather than private cars to get around. Berawa has become the hub for massive beach clubs like Finns and Atlas Beach Fest, while Batu Bolong is the heart of the boutique and café scene. If you want a glimpse of the “old Canggu” with fewer crowds and more local charm, I recommend staying in Pererenan, which remains the most tranquil and walkable pocket of the region.
• Best Hotels: Tugu • Ecozy Dijiwa • COMO Uma • The Palms • CalmTree • ASTON • Eastin
4. Sanur
The Andaz in Sanur.
Sanur is no longer just a “quiet alternative”; it is now Bali’s most organized and well-connected coastal town. The centerpiece of the area is the 6km beachfront path, which remains the best place on the island for a sunrise cycle or a long, flat walk. In recent years, the local infrastructure has seen two massive upgrades. First, the Icon Bali Mall has opened right on the beach, offering high-end international shopping and Bali’s first seaside IMAX theater. Second, the new Sanur Port terminal is fully operational, featuring a modern air-conditioned lounge and a floating pier. This means you no longer have to wade through the surf to board your fast boat to Nusa Lembongan or the Gili Islands. Additionally, the opening of the Bali International Hospital within the new Health Special Economic Zone provides world-class medical facilities right in town. Sanur is the ideal base for families and couples who want a mix of traditional Balinese charm, calm swimming waters, and 21st-century convenience.
• Best Hotels: Tandjung Sari • Andaz • Hyatt Regency • Segara Village
5. Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is known for its 5-star beach resorts, like Laguna with its humungous beachfront pool.
Nusa Dua is a master-planned, gated tourism complex (ITDC) that feels worlds away from the chaotic traffic of Kuta or Canggu. It is the only area in Bali where you can walk on wide, paved sidewalks between resorts without dodging motorbikes. The area is defined by massive 5-star estates like the St. Regis, The Mulia, and the architecturally stunning Apurva Kempinski. The white-sand beach here is protected by an offshore reef, creating a shallow lagoon that is the safest spot on the island for young children to swim. While the central ITDC zone is home to established icons like the Grand Hyatt and The Westin, the newer “Luxury Row” has expanded south into Sawangan. These cliff-front resorts offer more dramatic ocean views but are further from the Bali Collection shopping hub. I recommend Nusa Dua for families who want high-end kids’ clubs and couples seeking a secluded, worry-free honeymoon. If you want a more local feel with street food and markets, take a short taxi ride outside the gates to the neighboring village of Bualu.
• Best Hotels: St. Regis • Laguna • Grand Hyatt • Meliá • Sofitel • Westin
6. Tanjung Benoa
Beachfront pool at the Conrad in Tanjung Benoa.
Located on the “thumb” of the Bukit Peninsula, Tanjung Benoa is Bali’s official hub for marine adventure. It remains the island’s premier destination for parasailing, jet-skiing, and sea-walking, offering significantly better value than comparable coastal resorts in Australia or Europe. While it shares the same calm, reef-protected waters as Nusa Dua to the south, Tanjung Benoa feels more authentic and less “manicured.” The area is a favorite for families, anchored by the Grand Mirage Resort and its specialized Family Paradise wing, which features mini-waterparks and kid-focused suites. At the northern tip of the peninsula, you’ll find a genuine village atmosphere where the Caow Eng Bio Chinese temple, a Hindu temple, and a local mosque sit side-by-side. I recommend this area for travelers who want a beachfront resort experience with easy access to local “warungs” (cafés) and markets, rather than staying entirely within a resort’s walls. It’s also the main departure point for Turtle Island conservation tours, which are a popular half-day excursion for children.
• Best Hotels: Conrad • Grand Mirage
7. Jimbaran
The excellent Mövenpick Resort & Spa in Jimbaran.
Jimbaran offers the perfect balance of high-end luxury and authentic Balinese culture. It’s the closest major resort area to the airport, allowing you to be poolside within 15 minutes of landing, yet the noise of the flight path is rarely an issue. Jimbaran has evolved into a world-class destination anchored by icons like Raffles Bali and the massive AYANA Estate. The long, golden-sand bay is divided into three sections: Kelan (north), Kedonganan (center), and Muaya Beach (south). While the northern end is famous for its bustling Kedonganan Fish Market, the southern end near the Four Seasons offers the most tranquil swimming and the best “sand-in-your-toes” dining. Every evening, the beach comes alive with candlelit seafood barbecues; I recommend Menega Cafe for the classic experience or Sundara at the Four Seasons for a more upscale, refined take on the Jimbaran sunset. For shopping and modern cafés away from the sand, the Samasta Lifestyle Village provides a polished, walkable hub that makes Jimbaran feel like a complete and modern destination.
• Best Hotels: Four Seasons • Raffles • InterContinental Bali • Jimbaran Puri • Mövenpick
8. Ubud
The Four Seasons Resort Sayan near Ubud.
Ubud is the island’s cultural and spiritual epicenter, but now it’s as famous for its “wellness revolution” as it is for its traditional arts. Travelers flock here for world-class yoga at The Yoga Barn, art museums like the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA), and a climate that is noticeably cooler than the coast. However, central Ubud is facing significant infrastructure challenges. Recent road collapses and new one-way traffic trials near the Arjuna Statue mean that travel times within the town center can be unpredictable. I strongly recommend staying in the quieter outlying villages like Nyuh Kuning or Penestanan to enjoy the serenity Ubud is known for. It remains the premier base for day trips; a private car and driver can take you to the 11th-century rock shrines of Gunung Kawi, the holy water rituals at Tirta Empul, or the UNESCO-listed rice terraces of Jatiluwih. Recently, Mount Batur Jeep tours have become the top alternative to the traditional sunrise hike.
• Best Hotels: Four Seasons Sayan • Viceroy • Komaneka at Bisma • Alam Indah • Kamandalu
9. Lovina
The The Lovina Hotel on the north coast of Bali.
Lovina, on the northern coast of Bali, is 10 kilometers of seaside villages offering a decent range of hotels and restaurants – but little nightlife or shopping. It has a perfect combination of sunsets, sea breezes, and sea views (as well as dolphin tours). The beaches have dark volcanic sand and the water is very calm, making it better for dolphin watching than traditional swimming. Lovina’s infectious village vibe, dramatic mountain backdrop, and accessibility to sights nearby, such as the Banjar hot springs and Bali’s second city, Singaraja, make it unique.
• Best Hotel: The Lovina • Lovina Beach Hotel • Villa Teman • Lilin Lovina • Aneka
10. East Coast
The beach just below Bloo Lagoon Village Hotel.
The East Coast is the best choice for travelers seeking the “real Bali” without sacrificing comfort. Padangbai remains a busy transit hub for the Gili Islands, but it is worth staying a night to visit the hidden Blue Lagoon Beach, which offers some of the best accessible snorkeling on the island. Just 15 minutes east, Candidasa is a sophisticated, low-key alternative to the southern resorts. While most of its natural beach has eroded, the high-end hotels like Candi Beach Resort have built beautiful tiered sun decks over the water, and it serves as the perfect base for exploring the Tirta Gangga Water Palace and Virgin Beach (Pasir Putih). For those willing to drive 2.5 hours from the airport, Amed is the ultimate reward. It’s a 14km string of volcanic black-sand fishing villages where life moves slowly. In recent years, Amed’s dining scene has exploded with excellent organic cafés, yet the scuba diving and snorkeling remain world-class, especially at the USAT Liberty Shipwreck in nearby Tulamben or the Japanese Shipwreck in Banyuning. I recommend Amed for travelers who want to slow down, rent a scooter, and wake up to views of Mount Agung towering over the ocean.
• Best Hotels: Aquaria Eco Resort (Candidasa) • Genggong (Candidasa) • Bloo Lagoon Village (Padangbai) • OK Divers Resort & Spa (Padangbai) • Ganesh Lodge (Candidasa) • Blue Moon (Amed) • Griya (Amed)
11. Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Penida
A trendy cafe just up the beach from Indiana Kenanga Villas in Nusa Lembongan.
Nusa Lembongan is the most accessible island escape from mainland Bali, and currently the experience is smoother than ever. Most fast boats now depart from the modern Sanur Port terminal, meaning you no longer have to wade through the waves to board. While full-sized cars are still restricted, gasoline buggies (golf carts) have become the standard for families and groups, supplementing the ubiquitous scooters. I recommend staying in Jungutbatu village if you want the best choice of sunset bars and specialty coffee shops, or Mushroom Bay if you prefer a protected swimming cove. Don’t miss Coconut Beach (also known as Song Lambung) for a quieter vibe. Cross the Yellow Bridge to explore the rustic cliffs of Nusa Ceningan next door. To the south, Nusa Penida is larger and more rugged. While road conditions are improving, they remain narrow and steep; I suggest hiring a private driver for the day. The island’s highlights include the breathtaking Crystal Bay for snorkeling and the massive Goa Giri Putri cave temple, where you enter through a tiny crevice into a soaring underground sanctuary. Note that a small tourism levy (IDR 25,000) is now collected upon arrival at the islands to support local conservation.
• Best Hotels: Indiana Kenanga (Lembongan) • Tamarind Resort (Jungutbatu) • Hai Tide (Lembongan) • Tigerlillys (Lembongan) • Akusara (Penida) • The Kama (Penida)
Bali Itinerary – Where To Go
• 3 to 5 Days in Bali: Base yourself in Seminyak, Jimbaran, or Ubud and make day trips to eastern Bali and around the Bukit Peninsula.
• One Week in Bali: Stay in two places: at a beach region (perhaps, Seminyak, Jimbaran, or Sanur) and somewhere in the countryside, like Ubud. You will have time to relax on the beach, go for long walks in the highlands of Ubud, and explore areas around central Bali, like the two volcanoes and crater lakes at Bratan and Batur.
• Two Weeks in Bali: Spend four or five days in three places: a beach region (such as Seminyak, Jimbaran, or Sanur); somewhere in the countryside like Ubud; and splurge on a luxury resort in Nusa Dua or nearby Tanjung Benoa.
• Three Weeks in Bali: Follow the advice for two weeks. With the extra time, stay and explore Nusa Lembongan island, which offers the tropical island appeal, or Padangbai, a laidback and unspoiled village with decent tourist facilities on the east coast, or Lovina, an easygoing beach region along the north coast with far fewer tourists than the south.
Hotels on map: Four Seasons Sayan • W Bali • Padma • Hard Rock • Four Seasons Jimbaran • Raffles • St. Regis
Hi Dave, excellent and informative forum. We are planning a four week trip to Bali in August/September. The main reason for the trip is to attend a wedding in Kuta Bali. Our Bali itinerary is almost done, and is as follows; 4 nights in Ubud, 6 nights in Sanur, 7 nights on Lombok, 7 nights on Kuta Bali (for the wedding), leaving 5 nights for another location. Whilst on Lombok we would like to visit/stay on Gilli Air, therefore are you able to recommend accommodation etc. Also for the last 5 nights of our holiday, where would you recommend. Would Nusa Lembongan be a good choice? Thank you and kind regards, Eamonn
You have a good selection of bases: Ubud, for culture and landscapes; Sanur, for a low-key beach resort; and Gili Air for some island life.
Gili Air is arguably the best of the three islands; not as laidback and quiet as Gili Meno and not a ‘party island’ like Gili Trawangan – although Air (which oddly means ‘water’ in Indonesian) has more than enough places to eat, stay, drink and shop. The entire island, which you can walk around in about 90 minutes, is completely encircled by glorious white-sand beaches and calm turquoise waters.
Most tourist facilities are along the eastern coast, with almost everything within a short stroll. For restaurants, try Classico Italiano, slightly inland from the harbor, for world-class and authentic pizza and pasta; Coffee Thyme, right at the harbor, for healthy choices and views; and The Mexican Kitchen, worth a walk to the west coast for margaritas and quesadillas on cabanas overlooking the sea.
Places to stay may include:
1) Gili Air Lagoon Resort – where all villas/rooms face a circular lagoon-shaped pool. It’s secluded and quiet, but in ‘downtown’ and meters from the harbor
2) Slow Villas – luxurious, modern self-contained villas about 100m inland from the quieter north-east coast
3) Villa Karang – bit old-fashioned, but very convenient to the harbor, with a range of affordable room and villas
Nusa Lembongan is a good option for your extra five days. It’s a lovely island – vehicle free, with great snorkeling and beaches, and a charming village vibe. It is also convenient to Gili Air because speedboats, such as Scoot, travel between Sanur and Gili Air (via Gili Trawangan) and stop at Nusa Lembongan. However, Lembongan doesn’t really offer much more than you would’ve seen and experienced at Gili Air.
So, perhaps, it’s a good idea to base yourself for those five days in another part of the island, namely Lovina in the north or Padangabi to the east.
The beaches at Lovina are grey and dirty, but the views, breezes and sunsets are as wonderful as anywhere else on Bali. It’s a very quiet resort region, and an ideal base to explore by chartered car or public transport sights along the north coast such as the remarkable monkey-infested Pura Pulaki temple; the hot springs and unique Buddhist monastery at Banjar; and Bali’s second city, Singaraja.
Padangbai is a delightfully undeveloped village, hemmed in by hills and fronting a postcard-perfect bay. It’s an idyllic base from which to explore by chartered or public transport sights such as the eerie Goa Lawah bat cave temple; the ancient pre-Hindu village of Tenganan; and probably Bali’s best beach at Pasir Putih. You could easily stop at Padangbai on the way to/from Gili Air, as many speedboats to the Gili Islands travel to/from Padangbai.
Hi Dave,
Really useful blog thank you! I’m going to Bali on my honeymoon in June and will be there for 8 days. Currently struggling to work out where to go to as we don’t want to spend/waste too much time travelling from one place to the next.
Ideally we wanted somewhere relaxing with nice beaches, but not too quiet (as in we would still like some bars/restaurants and some atmosphere). We love the idea of watching the sunset at a relaxed bar, but also being somewhere where we can explore Bali and try local food and see the markets and local sights etc.
We’re not the types to just lie on the beach all day every day!
Friends have recommended Nusa Lembongan, Canggu, Uluwatu, and Ubud. But we are struggling to work out which would be best. Do you have any further recommendations?
Thanks!
Steph
The choices for first-time visitors to Bali can seem overwhelming and it pays to spend time making the best decisions – even more so on a honeymoon.
The places you listed may not suit your immediate needs:
1) Nusa Lembongan is a lovely quiet island, with remarkable sunsets but virtually no shopping, nightlife or sophisticated restaurants or bars
2) Canggu is a vast area north of Seminyak where your villa/hotel could be 1-2km from any café, bar or shop, and even further from the beach, with taxis rare
3) Ulu Watu is a remote area, famous for its temple, with only a handful of homestays and cafés catering mostly for surfers
4) Ubud has no beach but is the perfect place for exploring the island (see below)
With 8 days you could certainly base yourself in two areas: Seminyak, for sunsets, sea, shopping, and nightlife; and Ubud for exploring the countryside and immersing yourself in the unique culture.
Seminyak is a quieter, and far more relaxing and sophisticated version of Kuta, with plenty of elegant cafés, bars, and shops. The beach can be greyish in parts but still wonderful for swimming, sunbathing, and strolling. And the sunsets are legendary – best enjoyed sipping a cocktail on a beanbag at a café on the sand.
You could day-trip from Seminyak by chartered car with driver to places like Tanah Lot temple, and the sights in and around Ubud, but staying in Ubud, about an hour from Seminyak, is worthwhile. Ubud offers a glimpse of the ‘real Bali’, with markets, temples, museums of local art, walks in the rice-fields, traditional dances at night etc. And from Ubud it’s easy to arrange visits to extraordinary places like the rock sculptures at Gunung Kawi and crater lake of Gunung Batur.
Hi Dave. I will be in Bali for 9 days in October. We are staying the first 3 nights in Nusa Dua and the next 3 days in Ubud. I am having a really hard time choosing where to spend the last 3 days. We want to be on the beach front. I was debating between Seminyak and Sanur. I like Sanur, because I hear it is not as touristy as Seminyak and is a great base for taking day trips to neighboring islands. I like Seminyak, because I hear it has great restaurants and has awesome sunsets. Can you help me choose.
Seminyak and Sanur are pleasingly dissimilar. Seminyak is a more upmarket version of the main tourist hub of Kuta/Legian, with classy shops, sophisticated cafés and jaw-dropping sunsets best enjoyed on beanbags strewn across the sand during late afternoon. The beach is a little greyer than Kuta/Legian, and there are less tourists, but the roads are still clogged with traffic and the footpaths choked with tourists.
Sanur has no surf or malls and, therefore, considerably less tourists than the Kuta/Legian/Seminyak stretch of coast. Traffic careers along a bypass road and many hotels directly face the sea. A highlight is the 6km-long beachside path, ideal for strolling and cycling. It is certainly possible to daytrip to the delightfully laidback island of Nusa Lembongan, but the more renowned Gili Islands are too far, and the speedboat fares too high, for a daytrip. Sanur is along the east coast, so there are no sunsets.
Because you’re also staying in Nusa Dua – which, like Sanur, is quiet and along the east coast – Seminyak may be a better third base, especially for ‘great restaurants’ and ‘awesome sunsets’.
To add to your possible confusion, you could consider staying in Jimbaran, which is close to the airport and along the west coast. The beach along Jimbaran is curved, bleached-white, and sections are often empty. There are enough great restaurants for a short stay and a highlight of your entire trip to Bali will be dinner on the sand at sunset, with seafood a specialty.
Hi Dave, Just visited Bali for eight nights and have just a few words to say… your information is excellent. Your blog is so accurate. Toya Devasya is indeed goose bumpy….Thanks a ton for sharing such invaluable and in-depth information. Also Padangbai is a quaint and pretty village as you mentioned.
Sejal Padalkar
Great. Glad it was helpful.
Hi Dave,
I love reading your blog about Bali, a lot of information and your love with Bali is shown here.
I am planning a short honeymoon trip in Bali in April. It’s not enough time to explore Bali, so we want to visit the most significant places of Bali such as Kuta, Taman Ayun temple, Tanah Lot temple, Ubud, rice terraced landscapes, Pura Tirta Empul temple, Zen Hideaway, Ulun Danu. Because of this short time, I would like to ask you for some advice about my trip.
1. I’m going to arrive in Bali in the afternoon of 1st day. Should I go directly to Ubud and spend there 2 nights to explore the area? Is there any tour because I hear in Ubud, it’s hard to take transportation. We want to rest in Ubud and get to know the crowded Bali later.
2. Should I spend a one-day tour to a nearby island (Nusa Lembongan) or stay in Kuta for the last 2 days? We want to enjoy the atmosphere of the beaches there.
3. I want to see Buta volcano, is it a good idea?
Our budget is not too high, so we do not want to lose time and money in going around to many places. I have searched a lot and really. I’m swimming in Bali’s pool. Which route should be the best for our short time? We really need your help!
Great thanks,
Chau Nguyen
Bali is small, but distances are deceiving and travelling around is time-consuming because of traffic, bad roads and volcanic landscapes. So, it is wise, as you have done, to plan your trip accordingly, but try to avoid fitting in too much in a short space of time. Most of the places you mention are ‘significant’, although some first-time travelers to Bali find the crowds, traffic and hawkers in Kuta overwhelming. Seminyak, barely 7km to the north, is more tranquil and sophisticated, while other beach resort regions, such as Sanur and Jimbaran, are even quieter, but still within a short taxi trip of the malls and nightclubs of Kuta.
Of the other places you mention:
Tanah Lot is certainly worth visiting, especially at sunset, but very crowded at that time; almost empty, however, the rest of the day
Pura Taman Ayun is a lovely temple, unusually with a moat, often ignored by tourists, and easily visited on the way to/from Ubud
there are rice-terraced landscapes all over Bali, but the most spectacular and accessible from Ubud are those at Tegallalang
Pura Tirta Empul temple is also wonderful, and especially enchanting during a full-moon festival
Zen Hideaway is accommodation based along the Ayung River, but 15 minutes by vehicle from downtown Ubud
Pura Ulun Danu is in Songan village, within the crater of Batur volcano and difficult to reach. But you probably mean Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple, which is extraordinary.
Ubud is the obvious base to explore and experience the amazing landscapes and culture of the island. From the airport, it’s about 90 minutes to Ubud, depending on traffic. It’s best to arrange a pick-up at the airport with your hotel in Ubud, rather than deal with unscrupulous taxi-drivers at the airport. Don’t stay the first night in Kuta unless you want to – go straight to Ubud. Surprisingly, there are no group bus tours available, so the only option is to charter a (comfortable, air-conditioned) car with a driver for only about U$40 per day to see the sights mentioned above.
Nusa Lembongan is an adorable laidback island, with virtually no traffic. There’s no organised trip you can join, but it’s only 30-45 minutes by speedboat from Sanur and easy enough to daytrip. Without a rented motorbike, however, you won’t be able to explore much more than the village and beach of Jungutbatu, but Nusa Lembongan deserves more time than just one day. It is the complete opposite of Kuta, so you need to decide if you want to experience the charming village vibe of Lembongan or the hectic resort feel of Kuta.
Gunung Batur volcano is an easy daytrip by a chartered car with driver from Ubud, with amazing views from the crater rim and hot springs at Toga Bungkah village alongside the crater lake. If you want to visit a volcano, perhaps Gunung Bratan is better. Also an easy daytrip from Ubud, it offers the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple you want to visit anyway, as well as the Botanic Gardens and markets at Candikuning village and the lakeside resort area of Bedugul, almost completely ignored by western tourists.
Hi Dave,
Thanks for your very helpful information about Bali. I love your website.
My fiancé and I are visiting for 12 days. We are looking for 6-7 days by the beach to start and then to move to Ubud afterward to do activities/ have a base to see more of inland Bali.
We like surfing, snorkeling and I looked at Komkune Hotel in Keramas for those first 5 days as it looked to have a mix of everything. Do you know this hotel/area, would you recommend it? I also looked at surfers paradise, is this comparable to Keramas?
From your descriptions, Nusa Lembongan and Jimbaran look really nice too for these first five days. I’m having a really hard time choosing and would really appreciate any advice you might have.
Thanks!
It’s always a great idea to split your time between a beach region, with sunsets, cocktails, shops, and clubs, and somewhere inland, like Ubud, to enjoy the wonderful landscapes (eg rice terraces at Tegallalang), sights (eg rock temples at Gunung Kawi), and culture (eg a traditional dance at Taman Saraswati temple). In fact, with 12 days, you could easily spend time at three places, adding an island or village to experience more of the ‘real’ Bali.
Komkune Hotel is a lovely new resort, with great facilities, but it is quite remote: not in a village or near any shops, cafés or bars. The beach is no good for surfing or snorkeling, and the sand is grey and gritty. Sorry, I’m not aware of any hotel on Bali called Surfers Paradise.
You are better off staying somewhere like Seminyak, which has plenty of facilities and great waves just off-shore, with surfboard rental easily arranged. Jimbaran is also lovely: an unhurried region with a curved, white-sand beach and some modest surfing in the southern bay. It’s also close to the airport (ideal for late arrivals or early departures), and a seafood dinner on the beach at sunset will be a highlight of your trip.
Even better is Nusa Lembongan, a small island with a genuine village vibe and virtually no traffic. Only 30 minutes by boat from Sanur, Lembongan offers great snorkeling (with gear available for rent) at several places and surf, but waves are about 400m off-shore and involve a tough paddle or chartered boat to reach.
So, perhaps, with 12 days, you could try three to five days in (1) Jimbaran for a quiet beach region, with some surf and close to the airport; (2) Nusa Lembongan for a traditional village, snorkeling and surfing; and (3) Ubud for culture and inland sights.
Hello Dave,
I will be traveling solo to Bali in early September. I prefer a calm laid back atmosphere, therefore my plan is to stay near Panji Anom/Singaraja/Buleleng area for the first 11 days. Then move more south so I’d be closer to the airport for the last 4 days of my trip, but I am having trouble figuring out where I would like to stay. I’m leaning toward Jimbaran and/or Sanur, but really I am open to other ideas.
I have found it difficult to make a decision related to all the things there are to see in Bali. I have also tossed the idea around to making a trip to visit the Komodo Island while in Bail, but I’m not sure it is worth it. Any ideas on that?
Thank you, any help is greatly appreciated.
It’s tempting to get away from the crowds, noise, and hassles, and escape to somewhere like Singaraja. But Bali’s second-largest city is not a tourist region, so hotels are for Indonesian business people and not western tourists. Facilities may not be as good as hoped for, and local restaurants will serve almost nothing but rice-based meals (which might be fine with you but good to know).
As you mention the Panji Anom area, you may be referring to Lovina, a lovely, quiet and laidback tourist region along the north coast, about 9km west of Singaraja. The best base within the Lovina area is Kalibukbuk, small enough to walk around in 20 minutes. It offers enough low-key hotels, cafes, bars, and shops to satisfy, but with no clubs or malls, and only a fraction of the crowds of southern Bali. The downside is that traveling there by tourist shuttle bus takes about 4 hours, and the beach is no good for swimming – but still wonderful for walks, views, breezes and dolphin-spotting.
Anywhere in southern Bali is close to the airport, but the Kuta/Legian area may be a culture shock after Lovina. Perhaps, it’s better to stay at Sanur or Jimbaran, which are both relaxed and comparatively quiet. Jimbaran has a better beach, and a seafood dinner on the beach at sunset may be a highlight of your trip. Sanur has more facilities and a long seaside pathway which is ideal for walking and cycling.
Two other laidback regions worth considering are Padangbai, on the east coast; and Nusa Lembongan, an adorable (almost) traffic-free island, 30 minutes by boat from Sanur. With 15 days, you should consider staying in three places: perhaps, Lovina, Sanur or Jimbaran, and somewhere else like Nusa Lembongan.
Komodo Island is popular, but the boat trip can be uncomfortable and long, perhaps taking a week for a return trip. If this is your first visit to Bali, take time to really enjoy and explore it – but without rushing. Instead of Komodo, consider visiting Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali; the volcanic areas of Gunung Bratan and Gunung Batur; the remote east coast around Amed; or, for something different, the neighboring island of Lombok, only 30 minutes away on a cheap flight.
Hello Dave!
Loving all your travel insights! My husband & I are looking to take a quick 5 day trip from Seoul to Bali, as first-timers, and are wondering what the best location(s) would be. We’ve done tons of sight-seeing throughout Korea so are looking for a laid-back, beach-focused trip. Would love to check out a couple of the top sights, but without it being too hectic or overwhelming. We love great food, beaches, and sunsets, but not the overly-touristy feel. Would love input on the best place to stay, and top sights to see, whether on Bali and/or one of the other nearby islands. Thank you so much!
With only a short amount of time, you should stay somewhere reasonably close to the airport, and you won’t have time to visit any of the nearby islands. The Kuta area can be overwhelming at times, with noise, crowds, traffic, and hawkers.
The best place to base yourself is probably Jimbaran, a long curved bay of white sand and calm waters. It is comparatively quiet and surprisingly undeveloped in places, with enough places to eat, drink and shop. It is also a genuine village, with fish and produce markets and a temple. And dinner on the beach at Jimbaran during sunset, with wandering musicians, traditional dances, and fireworks, will be a highlight of your trip.
From Jimbaran, it’s easy to arrange a chartered car with a driver to visit nearby sights, such as Ulu Watu temple and the resort areas of Tanjung Benoa (for water-sports) and Nusa Dua (with a pleasant outdoor mall). A day trip to the well-known attractions in and around Ubud, such as the Gunung Kawi rock sculptures and Tirta Empul sacred temple, is also worthwhile.
A few places to consider in Jimbaran are:
1) Four Seasons Jimbaran – one of Bali’s best resorts, with arguably the finest views on the whole island. Cliff-top, but still convenient to shops and cafés.
2) Belmond Jimbaran Puri – more affordable, with a stunning and spacious beachside location.
3) InterContinental – vast tropical gardens, traditional design, and central.
Hi Dave,
Have used your guides for three of my earlier trips and want to compliment you on your very practical and useful recommendations. My wife and I plan to spend a month in Bali. We would like to spend time at 3/4 places. Our aim is to (1) swim in some clean and not too wild waves, (2) do some snorkeling (3) walk / loiter around and just chill in the vicinity of areas that offer beaches / sunset / clubbing etc and (4) also not to miss out the cultural areas of Bali. We are not looking for secluded areas but would like a decent amount of tourist company. After reading your guide, we plan is to spend 10 days each in Sanur and Seminyak. 5 days in Ubud and 5 days in some place that offers the option of being able to snorkel from the beach itself. We are debating between Amed, Blue Lagoon, Nusa Lembongan, and Gili Air. We are on a budget and do not wish to stay in upmarket beach front hotels but would like to stay in budget hotels/ B&B some distance behind the coastline. Could you please guide us on (a) choice of places chosen to stay, (b) selection of a place that will enable snorkeling from the beach and at the same time meet our other requirements of spending leisure time, and (c) recommendations for a hotel stay in the places that we could choose.
Thanks and warm regards
With a month you certainly have time to explore so much of Bali, but perhaps consider staying in five places to truly relish the beaches, landscapes, culture and nearby islands.
Let’s look at the places you are considering:
1) Seminyak is ideal for sunsets, chilling out, cafés and nightclubs, but waves can sometimes be too strong for swimming, and no snorkeling.
2) Sanur is a quieter and developed alternative to Seminyak, with calm waters, but may be worth staying for less than 10 days because it’s a little similar to Seminyak.
3) Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali and worth staying longer than 5 days for what it offers and as a base for exploring nearby temples, volcanoes, and lakes.
4) Amed is a generic term for a 10km-long stretch of Eastern Bali incorporating several villages offering limited facilities. Certainly ideal for snorkeling just offshore, but remote. There are almost no swimming beaches and possibly only 2-3 places to eat within walking distance of your hotel.
5) Blue Lagoon probably refers to the cute beach at Padangbai, with a likable village vibe (and departure point for the Gili Islands). Snorkeling and swimming is great, while snorkeling is even better on short boat trips from nearby Candidasa.
6) Nusa Lembongan is a delightful almost-traffic-free island within 45 minutes of Sanur. Snorkeling is marvelous at Mangrove Beach and Mushroom Bay, and there is a likable ambiance and village lifestyle across the island.
7) For many Gili Air is the best of the three Gili Islands, about 90 minutes by boat from Bali. Gili Trawangan is too busy and noisy for some; Gili Meno too quiet for others. But snorkeling is outstanding from just offshore on any of the three islets.
Based on your wishes, perhaps consider arranging your trip this way (I’ve recommend some good budget hotels):
1) Seminyak (5 days) – for sunsets, nightclubs, and shopping. Try staying at Puri Cendana or Raja Gardens Bungalows.
2) Sanur (5 days) – a quieter beach region for walking, cycling and exploring southern Bali. Try Besakih Beach Hotel; Little Pond Homestay; or Ananda Beach Hotel.
3) Ubud (8 days) – best place for culture and exploring central Bali. Alam Indah for convenient ravine-side setting; or Nick’s Pension for serenity and unbeatable central position.
4) Padangbai (5 days) – for village lifestyle and snorkeling. Several affordable places facing the bay include Kerti Beach Bungalows.
5) Gili Air (7 days) – for calm swimming, accessible snorkeling and village life (Lombok-style). Many options including Gusung Indah Bungalows and Gita Gili Bungalow.
Hi there, I’d like to go to Bali October 31st – November 12th. Should I be worried about the weather?
Thanks
The rains are just starting about this time but the weather is still pretty good. No guarantees but I doubt it will be a problem.
Hi there,
I an concerned about the risk of a tsunami. Could you please recommend where is safest to stay. Travelling with young children.
Thank you,
Gron
Like visiting pretty much anywhere in the world your risk from being in a car accident is many fold greater than being caught in a tsunami. Vehicle-related deaths total about 1 million per year. All natural disasters combined caused 1 million deaths over the previous twenty years (of which tsunami-related deaths would be a fraction). I suppose if you’re so worried that you can’t relax then stay in Ubud which is far away from the ocean.
What are the best cheap hotels in Bali? We are a honeymoon couple (ages 28 and 34) traveling long-term on a fixed budget. Would love to keep hotel expenses below $50/night. Will likely spend 10 to 12 days in Bali in two or three different towns but not overly picky which. What hotels would you recommend for a relaxing and affordable stay?
With 10-12 days you have time to stay in and explore 3 different places within Bali, but avoid more distant areas like Lovina or the Gili Islands. And as (presumably) first-time visitors, it’s perhaps best to avoid the main beach strip of Kuta/Legian/Seminyak, where the crowds, noise, traffic, and street hawkers can be overwhelming for some, and not conducive to a peaceful honeymoon.
Thankfully, there are plenty of choices and, because of the favorable exchange rate and fierce competition among hotels, finding a place for less than US$50 with a pool, wi-fi, and breakfast is not difficult.
These recommended bases are only an hour by chartered car with a driver or tourist shuttle bus from each other:
1) Sanur – without the surf, sunsets, and malls of Kuta/Legian/Seminyak, but far quieter and more laidback. Still plenty to see and do, and the 6km-long beachside path is ideal for walking and cycling. All these places have a pool.
(a) Hotel Jati Sanur – so cute, quiet, and friendly. Balinese-style bungalows in lush gardens. 100m from the beach.
(b) Peneeda View Beach Hotel – best value actually facing the beach. Balinese-style rooms, seclusion, and excellent position for shops and cafés.
(c) Little Pond Homestay – newish, back from the road, and great location for cafés and bars. 200m from the beach. Terrific value.
2) Ubud – spiritual and cultural heart of Bali, with so much to see and do in Ubud (eg market, temples, art museums) and the general area (eg rice terraces at Tegallalang, rock sculptures at Gunung Kawi). Each place has a pool, but this is not always needed in Ubud which in the highlands.
(a) Nick’s Pension – unbeatable location for facilities. Gorgeous villas in rice-fields.
(b) Gayatri – another very convenient position. Old-fashioned charm and large villas.
(c) Honeymoon Guesthouse – appropriate! Along quiet street, but so convenient. Excellent café onsite.
3) Padangbai – very scenic village on the east coast. Lovely vibe and excellent value all around. Flawless beaches and ideal for daytrips, eg to the ancient village of Tenganan or eerie bat cave temple of Goa Lawah. All these hotels have a pool.
(a) Puri Rai – beachfront, trendy, and popular. Great value.
(b) Kerti Beach Bungalow – beachfront, quiet, and long-established.
(c) OK Divers Resort & Spa – a little more than your budget, but worth a splurge for perfect beachfront position and colonial-style setting. 2 pools. Diving agency onsite.
Is two weeks too long to spend in Bali for a family vacation?
10 to 15 days is the perfect length of time for a Bali holiday. That will allow plenty of time to tour the island and see the highlights. But also provide a few days to relax and unwind by the pool or beach. But more than 15 or maybe 20 days and I’d recommend hopping a boat to Lombok or the Gilis.
Are there good places to stay near the Bali International airport? Our flight departs early.
Any hotel in Jimbaran, Kuta, or Tuban will be fine for easy access to the Bali airport. If you need a name then the Holiday Inn Baruna Bali in Kuta is a great choice. But there are many others too. Taxis are easy to arrange.
Hi Dave,
I will be travelling solo as a first time Bali visitor from early February to early March.
I want a mixture of gentle scenic walks, culture, waterfalls, sunsets and a bit of adventure. I am a very youthful lady mid 50’s and would like to meet up with other solo travellers to share experiences and travelling costs. Not sure the order in which to visit these resorts and how long to stay in each one. Can you help? I will be arriving in the early hours of the morning 03/02 so will probably just want to sleep the first day!
Want to see Ubud, Uluwata, Gili T, Mundak, Lombok, Nusa Lembongan, Lovina and around Seminyak/Legion/Canguu area.
Need to start somewhere not far from airport and end somewhere near airport. Happy to base my accomodation in 3/4 areas over the month and do day trips from each base.
Don’t know where to start as I have information overload!
Can you help with order of areas in a sort of loop and how long to spend in each area, taking into account I can do day trips etc?
NB … I quite like beaches but not interested in diving or snorkelling. I would however like to see turtles and dolphins and have a go at paddle boarding. I wouldn’t mind a few beach parties either!
Thank you
Joanne
February into March is technically the tail end of the wet season, which isn’t a bad thing – think lush green landscapes, fewer crowds than peak season, often lower prices, and rain usually comes in bursts (often afternoon or night) rather than all-day washouts. But do pack a light rain jacket and be prepared for higher humidity.
It’s totally understandable to feel overwhelmed with so many amazing places on your list. Trying to fit everything in (Ubud, Uluwatu, Gili T, Munduk, Lombok, Lembongan, Lovina, South Bali coast) would be incredibly rushed, involving constant packing and moving. Given you want to base yourself in 3-4 areas and do day trips, plus the added travel time and potentially rougher sea crossings for Lombok (especially in Feb/March), my first big suggestion is to save Lombok for another trip. You can still easily visit Gili Trawangan from Bali. I’d also suggest choosing between the North Bali loop (Munduk/Lovina) OR Nusa Lembongan, as fitting both plus the Gilis, Ubud, and South Bali might stretch you too thin.
Here’s a possible itinerary focusing on 3-4 bases, creating a rough loop, hitting your key interests (walks, culture, waterfalls, sunsets, turtles, dolphins, paddleboarding, social scene), and starting/ending near the airport (DPS):
Proposed Bali Solo Adventure Loop (Approx. 1 Month):
Arrival & South Coast Base (Seminyak/Legian/Canggu Area | ~6-7 Nights):
Why: You arrive very early (Feb 3rd AM) and will be tired. This area is only 30-60 mins from the airport. It eases you into Bali, offers beaches for sunset walks, tons of great cafes/restaurants, and a very lively social scene (especially Canggu) perfect for potentially meeting other travelers right away. Legian/Seminyak offer good beaches for relaxing, while Canggu has a younger, more digital nomad/surfer vibe.
Activities: Settle in, relax by the pool/beach, enjoy sunsets, explore the shops/cafes, maybe try a beginner surf lesson or paddleboard session if conditions allow (waves can be bigger here). This is also a great base for a day trip down to Uluwatu (stunning cliffside temple, sunset Kecak dance, beautiful beaches – though access often involves stairs).
Finding Solos: Canggu is a hub for solo travelers and expats; Seminyak/Legian also have plenty of sociable spots.
Cultural Immersion (Ubud Area | Base 2: ~8-10 Nights):
Why: The cultural heart of Bali. Perfect for gentle scenic walks (Campuhan Ridge Walk is a must!), rice paddies (Tegalalang is famous, but explore smaller ones too), temples (Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple, Gunung Kawi, Goa Gajah), waterfalls (Tegenungan nearby, others further north), yoga/wellness, and amazing food.
Activities: Explore the town centre and market, visit the Monkey Forest (be careful with belongings!), take a Balinese cooking class, enjoy traditional dance performances, visit art galleries, do lots of walking! Consider a day trip north towards Kintamani (volcano views) or Bedugul (lakes/temples), or even towards the Munduk region for more dramatic waterfalls/hiking if you’re feeling adventurous (long day trip).
Finding Solos: Ubud attracts many solo travelers interested in yoga, wellness, and culture. Many guesthouses and cafes have a communal feel. Join a workshop or class.
Island Life & Turtles (Gili Trawangan | Base 3: ~6-7 Nights):
Why: Famous for being able to swim with turtles right off the beach! Offers that relaxed, no-car island vibe, beautiful sunsets, calm water on the west side usually suitable for paddleboarding. Gili T also has a reputation for being the most lively of the three Gili islands, with beach bars and parties, making it great for meeting other travelers.
Travel: You’ll need to get to Padang Bai harbour (East Bali, about 90 mins from Ubud) to catch a fast boat (~1.5-2 hours) to Gili T. Important: Check boat company safety records and be aware that sea crossings can be bumpy or occasionally cancelled during the wet season – build flexibility into your schedule. Book your boat ticket in advance.
Activities: Snorkel/swim off the beach (turtle spotting!), rent a bike to cycle around the island, try paddleboarding, enjoy sunset swings, join a boat trip for more snorkeling spots around the Gilis, relax on the beach, enjoy the nightlife if you wish.
Return & Final Stop (Sanur or back near Seminyak | Base 4: ~3-4 Nights):
Why: You need to end up back near the airport (DPS) for your early March departure. Take the fast boat back from Gili T to Padang Bai. From Padang Bai, you could transfer to Sanur. Sanur offers calmer beaches than Seminyak/Canggu (great for a final paddleboard), a lovely beachfront path for walking, a more relaxed vibe, and is still convenient for the airport (~30-40 mins). Alternatively, head back towards Seminyak/Legian if you preferred the vibe there.
Activities: Relax, enjoy final Balinese meals, perhaps some spa time, easy souvenir shopping, enjoy a final sunset walk.
Lovina/Munduk: This plan prioritizes Gili T for the island/turtle/social fix over the North Bali loop for dolphins/waterfalls to reduce travel time. Some waterfalls can potentially be seen on a (long) day trip from Ubud.
Key Tips for Your Trip:
Book First Night: Definitely book your first night near the airport in advance, given your early AM arrival.
Wet Season Flexibility: Be prepared for rain showers – they often pass quickly. Be flexible with outdoor plans and boat trips.
Transport: Use ride-hailing apps (Gojek/Grab) for cars/scooter taxis (very affordable), hire private drivers for longer day trips (easy to arrange locally or pre-book), use fast boats for island crossings (book ahead, check safety reviews).
Accommodation: Look for places with good reviews from solo travelers, perhaps guesthouses or hotels with nice communal pool/lounge areas. Private rooms in well-regarded, social hostels can also be a great option for meeting people easily.
Meeting People: Be open! Strike up conversations at cafes, join small group tours or classes, stay in places with social areas. Gili T and Canggu are particularly easy for this.
This plan provides a good loop, covers your key interests, uses 3-4 main bases, and allows for flexibility with day trips. Have an absolutely amazing first trip to Bali!