A Guide on Where to Stay in Bali
Ben and I have stayed in a variety of places throughout the island of Bali so I thought I’d share with you a little bit about the different areas. This is a comprehensive guide to different areas in Bali so you can have a better understanding of what area would suit you.
Kuta
Kuta is right next to the airport and arguably one of the busiest areas. The traffic in this area can be outrageous and rather frustrating. Aside from this, the area is well built up with a wide range of western food. The beach walk mall is located here, with an impressive range of shops and a cinema. There’s also an abundance of tourist shops from fridge magnets to your favourite sports teams’ jerseys. I would only recommend staying here if you have an early morning flight.
Nusa Dua
If you’re looking for a quiet resort escape then Nusa Dua is your place. The area is filled with resort after resort with their own beach accesses. Nusa Dua is a great place to book into for 1 week and sit back and relax, if that’s your vibe. You’ll be unlikely to leave the area but if you do venture outside of your resort, there is a good range of western/local restaurants a stone’s throw away. As a bonus, if you’re a golf fan, the Bali international golf course is located here.
Jimbaran
Located just below Kuta, Jimbaran is a much more chilled area. If you’re a surfer or looking to get into surfing, Jimbaran is a popular spot for total beginners up to intermediate level. Like Nusa Dua there is a good mix of western and local restaurants. I found accommodation to be slightly pricier in this area so be sure to book a little earlier.
Canggu
Probably the place you’ve heard about the most, Canggu. This is the hot spot for tourists as this is where popular beach clubs Finns and Atlas reside. The famous Bali traffic videos come from this area, hence giving you an idea of how busy it is. Canggu is mainly western comforts, it’s harder to find local food in this area but still doable. It just won’t be at local prices! Since the area is so busy, there’s a huge variety of accommodations at all different budget types so it’ll be relatively easy to find something that suits you!
Seminyak/Legian
Similar to Canggu, super busy and touristy. Accommodation and food options are pretty much the same as Canggu as well. You’ll likely find the traffic is worse here as the roads seem smaller. If you’re looking for bars/nightlife and an easy journey home after a night out, these areas will be your spot. As an added bonus, you’ll find the original Motel Mexicola here.
Pererenan
The next area up from Canggu, Pererenan and Seseh are a little less busy. The areas are still developing so you’ll probably find a lot of construction going on here. Despite this, the roads seem to be slightly bigger and less busy so it is easier to get around. Accommodation is a little pricier but I’ve found this is because they seem to be of better standard than say somewhere like Canggu. If you like a quieter lifestyle but still want to be close to the buzz, Pererenan is your spot!
*if you’re staying in or near Pererenan, I recommend going to Openhouse for breakfast/lunch/dinner! The BEST food!
Ubud
Known for its holistic healing, Ubud is popular with those looking to get in touch with their spiritual side. There’s activities for all in Ubud from day clubs to coffee making workshops to temples. The famous Monkey Forest is located right in the centre of Ubud. It is a busy spot for all tourists alike. Be aware, the centre of Ubud is extremely busy so I would avoid staying centrally unless you don’t feel comfortable renting a bike or taking a Grab. 10 minutes outside the centre and you’ll be surrounded by the picturesque rice fields.
If you’re looking for somewhere similar to Ubud but for somewhere much quieter, I’d recommend Sidemen. Not too far and a great place to relax in the middle of the countryside.
Kedungu
Not known by many tourists, this sleepy spot is the perfect off the beaten track place for travellers looking to chill out. Probably one of my favourite places, Kedungu is what locals would describe Canggu as 10 years ago. It’s rather spread out so I’d definitely recommend having a bike or car. A few western restaurants but mostly local places. As it’s not super busy here, there are less accommodation options.
Sanur
Many described Sanur as the retirement area of Bali and I would probably agree. I’d also recommend it for families as well. Sanur is where all the boats to the islands (Nusa Penida, Lembongon, Gilli) leave from, so might be worth the stop overnight if you’re wanting to leave early. The best part about Sanur is there’s a boardwalk a couple kilometres along the beach so you can comfortably walk along the beach without getting sand in your shoes. I would say there’s more western restaurants than local places but there are a few local gems if you can find them.
Candi Dasa
Located on the east coast of Bali site Candi Dasa. As it’s a bit out of the way, it’s not really on the usual radar tourist spots to visit. If you’re looking for off the beaten track and to explore a little more, the black beaches up around Candi Dasa are wonderful and usually almost tourist free. Accommodation is fairly cheap and yet there’s still cafes and restaurants to suit everyone.
Amed
Known for dolphin tours and scuba diving, Amed is quiet yet still a tourist spot. I would say the same price range as Candi Dasa and equally the same restaurant range. You’re more likely to go to Amed if you’re interested in specifically one of the activities it has to offer.
I hope this guide has given you a better understanding of some of the areas you’d like to stay in Bali. Bali is an incredible island that has so much to offer. I’d highly recommend staying in a few different places! 🌺