🌴 Where to Stay in Bali
There’s no single “best” place to stay in Bali—each area offers something unique, and your ideal base depends on the kind of experience you’re after. If you have the time, we highly recommend staying in at least two different areas to get a well-rounded feel for the island. Bali is truly one-of-a-kind, and no matter where you stay, you’re in for the trip of a lifetime.
🌿 Ubud: The Cultural Heart of Bali
Ubud is a creative and cultural hub nestled in the lush green heart of Bali. Surrounded by rice paddies, jungle, and traditional villages, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Balinese culture.
Best for: Culture lovers, wellness seekers, nature enthusiasts
Top things to do: Visit the Monkey Forest, explore rice terraces, take a cooking class, or relax at a jungle spa.
Recommendations:
Ketut’s Cottage Place– near to the Ubud market and centre city location
AirBnb in Bangli – near to the waterfalls, good for a longer stay
Kun Kun guest house – near to Monkey forest, walkable distance to cafes
Biyukukung Suites & Spa– location Ubud centre, walking distance to yoga barn, offers spa
🏄♂️ Canggu: Surf, Cafes & Digital Nomads
Canggu has exploded in popularity in recent years. Once a quiet surf town, it’s now a bustling hotspot filled with trendy cafes, beach clubs, and co-working spaces.
Best for: Digital nomads, surfers, nightlife lovers
To do: Tanah Lot Temple, surfing, beach clubs like La Brisa and The Lawn
Recommendations:
Dana Homestay – inexpensive, close to the clubs
The Palms Canggu – near to the cafes, surf beaches, good location
🌊 Uluwatu & The Bukit Peninsula: Cliffs & Coastlines
Located on Bali’s southern tip, Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula offer dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, and epic sunsets. It’s also close to the airport, making it a great option if you’re short on time.
Best for: Beach lovers, surfers, couples
Top sights: Uluwatu Temple, Padang Padang Beach, cliffside bars
Recommendations:
The Ulus Klumpu– beautiful location on a cliff, offers paragliding option during season
Balangan Sea View– offers sea view, budget stay
Uluwatu Surf shack-offers beachfront rooms and shacks
Padang Padang Inn – close to Padang Padang beach, cafes and restaurants nearby
🐉 Nusa Penida: Island Adventure & Iconic Views
Just a short boat ride from Bali, Nusa Penida is a rugged island paradise known for its jaw-dropping cliffs and turquoise waters. The crown jewel? Kelingking Beach, with its famous T-Rex-shaped cliff and steep hike down to a secluded white sand beach.
Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, nature lovers
Top sights: Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Crystal Bay
Recommendations:
Mesare Eco Resort- centre location, jungle setting, relaxing atmosphere
Senutulan Garden– close to Kelingking beach, friendly staff