You’ve seen the pictures on Instagram: infinity pools surrounded by dense jungle, dramatic cliff tops with baby blue surf, vast rice fields with misty mountain ranges- having lived in Bali for the past few months, I can confirm this little Indonesian Island is both a stunning and diverse location that offers something for everyone.
That being said, every region in Bali has a distinct vibe, so what you are looking for will determine where best to stay. Want to immerse yourself in yoga and fantastic vegan food? Head to Ubud. Or perhaps you would rather be based in the hipster co-working hub of Canggu or the glitzy centre of Seminyak in the south?
I’ve been lucky enough to see most of the island during my time here, so these are my top spots to help you get the most out of this beautiful destination…
My Favorite Place to Stay in Bali
Without a doubt, my favourite place to stay in Bali is the Puri Lumbung Cottages, a unique eco-resort set in the stunning mountainous area of Munduk, Northern Bali. It’s a place that allows you to experience the true naturalistic beauty of Bali, with views of dramatic mountain peaks and rice fields. My favourite thing to do here is explore the local area (it’s near Bali’s lakes and the famous Ulun Danu Bratan ‘floating temple’) and visit castigating waterfalls on jungle hikes.
Best Place Stay for First-Timers
Ubud
One of the most famous spots in Bali, Ubud offers a first-timer a little bit of everything: think secluded rice field walks and jungle, mixed with traditional temples and colourful Balinese influences.
Ubud also features a bustling high street with fantastic healthy eats and boutique shops. Significantly easier to get around here than other spots in Bali, it’s a good base on your first visit.
Choose to stay in the centre around Ubud market if you like the idea of walking or opt for a peaceful area such as Penestanan (‘artists village’) which offers rice field walks and relaxation.
My hotel recommendation for First-Timers
My favourite spot combines the best of both worlds- Dragonfly Village is located in the heart of Ubud, just behind the high street. Yet you would be mistaken for thinking you were in a remote location as this is one of Ubud’s best areas to experience coconut trees, rice fields and dramatic sunsets. This charming accommodation also features a tasty restaurant and a salt-water outdoor pool with picture-perfect views.
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Gunung Kawi – You have probably heard of the Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud- there are countless photos all over Instagram! But I prefer Gunung Kawi. About 40 mins outside of Ubud, at the bottom of a lush river valley they are much quieter and less touristy than Tegalalang but with INCREDIBLE views. The sight is also home to ten impressive shrines cut into rock faces.
- Tirta Empul Temple – Another one of Bali’s ‘must-sees’ Tirta Empul is situated a 20 min drive from central Ubud and is a great way to experience the Balinese Hindu religion. The temple consists of several holy spring water fountains for ritual purification, allowing you to partake in the tradition.
- Magical Rice Field walk – A hidden gem in Ubud, this tiny alleyway by the Starbucks on Ubud high street opens up to a beautiful oasis of palm trees, fields and jungle pathways perfect a relaxing break from the bustle in the centre.
- Monkey Forest- It’s hard to believe that in the middle of town sits this beautiful naturalistic park home to many of Bali’s monkey population! The grounds are stunning and it’s an opportunity to get close and personal with these primates. Do keep an eye on your valuables though as they steal sunglasses, water-bottles and iPhones!
- Pura Taman Saraswati – Another surprise right in the middle of town is one of Bali’s most iconic temple’s- Pura Taman Saraswati. Situated next to a tranquil lotus pond its architecture honours the Hindu goddess of knowledge and art.
- Campuhan Ridge Walk – Looking some breathing space away from the centre? Try this picturesque hill spot known for its hiking trails & sweeping hilltops. The paths are best enjoyed early morning or late afternoon to beat the heat and it’s a great vantage point for sunrises/sunsets!
Best Place Stay for Couples/Honeymooners
Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan
For couples looking for a slice of Bali’s tropical paradise, you can’t beat the islands of Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan. Connected by a distinctive yellow bridge, they offer an escape from the scooter traffic of the mainland and are only 45 min away by ferry.
My hotel recommendation for Couples/Honeymooners
The Tamarind Resort – Nusa Lembongan
For the ultimate in island life luxury, a stay at The Tamarind Resort will not disappoint! A massive outdoor swimming pool? Check. Ocean views? Check again! Amenities range from a top-quality restaurant, gym, several infinity pools (yep several) and a personal sunset view. The staff here are incredible and will make your stay one to remember.
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Blue Lagoon – The blue lagoon was my favourite thing to do on Bali’s Nusa Islands. Situated on Ceningan island, the lagoon is a stunning rocky cove with the most turquoise water I’ve ever seen! It’s well worth stopping by for photos.
- Abyss Zip-line –For the Adeline junkies, I recommend taking a zip-line across these turquoise waters for the ultimate bird’s-eye view. Located just around the corner from the blue lagoon in a hotel complex, the Zip-line may be short but your ticket price includes complimentary use of a fantastic infinity swimming pool.
- The Sand Ceningan – This was my favourite beach bar across both islands, mostly due to its laid back vibe, stunning waterfront location and delicious food. Try to time your visit when the tide is in for the best swing seat spot. Oh and try the dragon fruit ‘Dragon-Colada’ cocktail!
- Nusa Lembongan Beaches – Unsurprisingly the beaches are stunning here! Head to Mushroom Bay for uninterrupted swimming or Dream Beach for a spot of sunbathing. Tamarind Bay is a great option for snorkelling and a visit to Sandy Bay Beach Club will give you access to a beautiful private beach.
- Devil’s Tears Lembongan – This is the most popular sunset spot across the islands, and justifiably so as you watch the surf swell and crash against the cliffs spectacularly. The name originates from this mesmerizing force of nature as the ocean spray explosions create “Devil’s Tears” mist.
Best Place Stay for Families with Kids
Sanur
Sanur is a great location for those looking to travel to Bali with their families– it’s still close to the airport but it’s much quieter and chilled than some other spots in the south, with gentle wave beaches to keep the children occupied. Not to mention one of the best ice cream shops in the whole of Bali!
My hotel recommendation for Families with Kids
You can rarely go wrong with a Fairmont, and the one at Sanur proves it! Located on four hectares of tropical garden with a beachfront location, it’s a sprawling complex meeting all your family’s needs- including an excellent kids club. I particular LOVE the swimming pool!
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Sanur Boardwalk – Hungry? Wander to Sanur boardwalk for an abundance of restaurant and bar choices right on the beach. You can walk for as much or as little as you like, but I definitely recommend stopping at ‘Seagrass by the beach’- a cute bamboo style cafe’ with upstairs terrace and yummy Indonesia satay!
- The Sanur Night Market – Pasar Sindhu Night Market is a great evening activity whilst based here. Less crowded than some of Bali’s other popular markets, it has a small and friendly vibe with an incredible selection of street food. The kids will love ‘Roti Bakar’- a sort of sandwich/cake-like dessert with yummy fillings like chocolate and Oreo’s!
- Turtle Conservation and Education Centre – A short 20 min drive from Sanur, it’s well worth taking the kids to Serangan Island to this turtle rehabilitating centre. Home to rescue turtles who will be shortly introduced back into the wild, as well as a few long-term residents (who sadly need continued care) it’s a great way to educate the kids on the plastic pollution problem currently effecting Bali. Kids can get up close with turtles and if you are really lucky,when you see views like this you may be able to either witness baby turtles hatch at the centre or participate in a recovered turtle being released back into the ocean.
- Sanur Beach – Sanur Beach is a fab child-friendly beach to relax and enjoy the sunshine. The waves are more gentle here than in surf centres like Uluwatu and Canggu making it the perfect spot to partake in water-sport activities such as snorkelling, diving or kite surfing. Grab a fresh coconut and spend a lazy Sunday afternoon here just in time to catch the sunset.
- Gelato at Massimo – I couldn’t mention Sanur without telling you about Massimo! Adult & kids with sweet teeth will LOVE the selection of gelato here- with flavours ranging from fresh mango to local chocolate ‘Beng- Beng’. The gelato shop is located in front of an Italian restaurant and is easy to find as there is always a queue/crowd of people admiring the flavours!
Best Place Stay for Views
Nusa Penida
Bali is featured all over Instagram and one of the most photographed island in the world for a reason- it’s stunning. But with more tourists than ever, infrastructure is having to keep up with demand. For a snapshot of what Bali used to be like 20 years ago, head to the island of Nusa Penida. Yes, it’s gaining more attention and people queue at the popular photo spots, but when you see views like this, it’s not hard to see why.
My hotel recommendation for Nusa Penida
Much of the accommodation on Nusa Penida is more basic than the rest of Bali, but I recommend SS Pangket Bungalow for their clean, new build bungalows at excellent value. The bungalows are in a perfect location not far from the arrival harbour and accessible to the islands main spots, and they are a stone’s throw away from my favourite treetop lunch spot ‘Vegan Soul Kitchen’.
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Kelingking Beach – Otherwise known as ’T Rex beach’ (Once you see it you can’t unseen it!) This is one of Nusa Penida’s top photo spots as the cliffs are stunning! Make sure you’re prepared for the hike down if you want to spend time on the beach- everything in Penida makes you work! But you are rewarded with the dramatic coastline.
- Nusa Penida Treehouse (Rumah Pohon) – Perched on the mountain at Thousand Island viewpoint near Atuh Beach, these treehouses have gone viral getting booked up months in advance. Even if you don’t stay it’s well worth a visit as you can snap some pics, climb the stairs and admire the stunning panoramic view on offer.
- Atuh beach – Speaking of Atuh beach, this is one of Nusa Penida’s best and worth checking out. The right-hand side of the beach has a staircase that leads up to Diamond Beach viewpoint which was my favourite photo op in Nusa Penida- the combination of dramatic coastline, blue ocean and the white sandy bay really has to be seen with your own eyes.
- Angel’s Billabong – Arrive at the right tide time and be rewarded with magical tidal pools and crystal clear water at Angels Billabong. The landscape here is truly beautiful, and I was even able to spot some wild dolphins playing in the ocean nearby!
- Crystal Bay Beach – A great spot to end the day, relax on the beach and watch the sunset, Crystal bay is the definition of ‘island life’. My favourite part about it was the drive down- all coconut palm trees and salty air. I also got interrupted by a group of pigs that ran across the road!
Best Place Stay for Surfing
Canggu
This little hipster hotspot has a special place in my heart–not only does its coastal position make it world renowned for surfing, but it’s a great place for digital nomads with a TON of cafe’s and workspaces and great food and drink options too.
My hotel recommendation for Surfers
Some of the accommodations straight on the beach can get crowded in Canggu, so if you’re looking for a place more relaxed but still within easy access to the beach, head to Ayuna. Terrific value for money, impeccably clean and with the nicest owners/staff you will ever meet, this is a true home from home. I was meant to stay here for 2 weeks and ended up staying for 5 months!
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Canggu/Echo Beach – If you’re coming to Bali to surf you’re going to want to check out the beaches! Canggu has two of the best surf spots-whether you are a pro or new to the waves. Both have an abundant selection of surf schools and make great sunset spots whether on the sand or over a drink at one of the famous beach bars.
- Eat Eat Eat! – There are FAR too many cafe’s and restaurants to mention here (that’s for another post!) But Canggu is one of the best areas in Bali for food- whether western or Indonesia. Some of my favourite spots include ‘Hungry Bird Roasters’ for coffee and pancakes, ‘Oma Jamu’ for a tasty vegan Indonesian buffet and ‘Milk & Madu’ for Thursday and Sunday 2 for 1 pizza!
- Markets – Like Ubud, Canggu has a selection of markets and shops to explore- I particularly like ‘Love Anchor’ with its outdoor vintage market vibe, and ‘Old Man’s’ beach bar holds a Saturday market once a month selling everything from sweet treats to pet supplies. For groceries and healthy treats, head to ‘Samadi’ on a Sunday- a yoga retreat with added health benefits!
- Tanah Lot – Not technically in Canggu but around 20 min away, Tanah Lot is home to an ancient Hindu pilgrimage temple that looks like it could almost float on water. It gets extremely busy here, but if you arrive late afternoon and climb the nearby hill you’re rewarded with one of the best sunsets you will see in Bali.
Best Place Stay for Nightlife
Seminyak
Ah, the glitz and glamour of Seminyak! Kuta’s classier big sister. Head here if you are looking for the best nightlife Bali has to offer…
My hotel recommendation for Seminyak
Located next to Potato Head, this is the perfect location for those who want to make the most of the nightlife Seminyak has to offer. Think sleek design and a ‘welcome home’ type vibe. It’s open, bright and oh so chic!
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Experience the nightlife! – Seminyak is a party lovers paradise but is way more sleek and sophisticated than neighbouring Kuta. Some top spots include ‘Motel Mexicola’ for its’ open-air and music and mariachi bands, ‘Potato Head Beach Club’ for the ultimate pool party and ‘Double-Six Rooftop’ for sunken circular ‘floating’ pods and sunset views.
- Spa day at Bodyworks – After all that partying, your body will need a bit of R&R! Seminyak is the perfect location for this, with an abundance of spa’s offering tons of top quality treatments. Bodyworks is one of the originals and still the best. Keep it simple and opt for a traditional massage for the best results.
- Horse riding on the beach – Like Canggu, Seminyak has an impressive stretch of beach to relax on. A sunset horse ride is a great option here or pose up a storm on the beach swings on Petitenget Beach.
- Double Six Beach – Also known as Blue Ocean Beach, this is Seminyak’s best sandy spot- it’s smaller than Seminyak beach but has tons of bars and restaurants, and you can sit on a comfy beanbag, cocktail in hand as the sun sets.
Best Place Stay for Beaches
Uluwatu
Situated on Bali’s most southern point, Uluwatu is known for its dramatic cliffs, baby blue surf and pristine beaches. Here are some of the best.
My hotel recommendation for Beaches in Uluwatu
Mule Malu is an Insta dream! Perfect tropical vibes and located close to the best surf beaches (Bingin, Padang Padang and Uluwatu) it’s nice and quiet featuring only 11 rooms and a beautiful salt water pool. I found food options to be a bit spread out in Uluwatu, so the on-site, super cute cafe serving great coffee and all-day breakfast was a real bonus!
My area ratings
Nearby attractions
- Padang Padang Beach (Thomas Beach) – This a great, non-crowded beach spot in Uluwatu. There are quite a few stairs to reach the beach, but you are rewarded with an unspoilt coastline and small tidal pools.
- Suluban Beach – Famous for the ‘Uluwatu Surf Break’ this is a great place to chill out and watch the surfers do their thing. The caves are also fun to explore, and there are some truly stunning coffee shop views!
- Uluwatu temple – One of the most popular things to do in the area, Uluwatu temple has some of the best clifftop views. It does get quite busy around sunset, so I prefer to skip the evening fire dance and head there late afternoon for some stunning photos.
- Sunset Point bar – Uluwatu has several bars to watch the sunset. Single Fin is probably the most famous, but my favourite is ‘Sunset Point’. Laidback vibes and beanbags make it the best place to chill with a Bintang and gaze out over the ocean.
- Pandawa Beach – My favourite beach in Uluwatu! Think baby blues and white sand, and it doesn’t get too crowded. You can rent a sun-bed here and have your own private slice of beach. It’s a bit further away from the rest of Uluwatu’s attractions, but it’s well worth it for the drive down alone.
Whatever your budget, Bali offers a fantastic selection of places to stay which cater to all tastes and locations. It’s a place that has surprised, delighted wowed and inspired me and holds so many special memories. I hope my travel guide has offered a glimpse of the exciting, diverse things Bali has to offer and I’m sure you will love it as much as I do!
Is there any other area you would like to visit in Bali? Comment below for further tips/recommendations!
