Where Is the Best Place to Stay Bali? A Complete Travel Guide

Bali is known as the Island of Gods. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, famous for leaving the tourists mesmerized with its beauty. From verdant rice terraces to user-friendly vibrant beaches, Bali has something to discover for every kind of explorer. However, with such a varied landscape, several towns, and villages spread across the island, deciding where is the best place to stay Bali based on one’s needs and preferences can feel confusing and exhausting. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will help you discover Bali best places to stay based on your travel style and budget. From Bali Airport Transfer to choosing the ideal accommodation, a wise plan is essential for a successful trip. No matter whether you are visiting the city for a week or for an extended vacation, the city is sure to leave you mesmerized. 

Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Area in Bali

Bali is not just a city, it is an exotic experience. With diverse regions and serene vibes, experiences, and amenities, Bali is undoubtedly a wonderland for nature lovers. However, the best place to live in Bali can significantly impact one’s travel experience. The choice of stay varies depending on the choices and lifestyles of tourists. The kind of accommodation that a digital nomad would prefer would differ from the type of hotel a honeymooner would like. So, let us explore the top places to stay in Bali so that you can make an informed choice, and have a fantastic stay in this magical city.

1. Ubud – For Culture, Nature, and Wellness

Known as the spiritual and cultural heart of Bali, Ubud is nestled in the midst of emerald rice paddies and a dense jungle. It is an amazing place to stay in Bali for those touristy souls who are seeking for yoga retreats, art, and healing.Ubud is the spiritual and cultural heart of Bali. Surrounded by emerald rice paddies and dense jungle, it’s perfect for travelers looking for yoga retreats, art, and healing.

• Ideal for: Those who want wellness retreats, travelers who want to explore Bali’s culture, and artists
• Highlights: Sacred Monkey Forest, Yoga Barn, Campuhan Ridge Walk

For travelers seeking serenity and quiet reflection Ubud could be the best place to live in Bali. If you want to stay in the midst of nature while still being close to restaurants, cafes, and markets, this could also be Bali best places to stay for you.

2. Seminyak – For Upscale Living and Beach Clubs

Offering a classic blend of luxury and relaxed beach culture, Seminyak is famous for its trendy boutiques, vibrant beach clubs, and restaurants with fine dining.

• Ideal for: Couples, luxury travelers and food lovers would like this place
• Highlights: Potato Head Beach Club, Petitenget Beach, high-end shopping

This place is undoubtedly one of the Bali best places to stay for those tourists who want luxurious options. For those who are seeking a place for a longer stay and want Western amenities, this could be the best place to live in Bali. 

3. Canggu – For Digital Nomads and Surfers

A popular spot becoming a favorite of digital nomads and surfers, Canggu offers co-working spaces, cafes by the beach, and a flourishing expat scene. This place has an energetic and youthful vibe.

• Ideal for: Those who work remotely, enjoy surfing and backpacking
• Highlights: Echo Beach, co-working cafes, Tanah Lot nearby

For remote workers, Canggu is the best place to live in Bali owing to infrastructure and atmosphere. Not just remote workers, those looking for community and surfing should also consider this one of the Bali best places to stay. 

4. Uluwatu – For Cliffside Views and World-Class Surfing

Uluwatu is famous for its dramatic cliffs and elite surf breaks. It is nestled in the south and is more peaceful than Canggu or Seminyak, which makes it perfect for honeymooners or the touristy souls seeking a serene stay.

• Ideal for: Travelers who like surfing, couples looking for peaceful places,
• Highlights: Uluwatu Temple, Dreamland Beach, luxury villas

With less crowds, Uluwatu is one of the Bali best places to stay, especially if you want to stay in the midst of breathtaking scenery. For those who are seeking surfing opportunities, this could be the best place to live in Bali. 

5. Sanur – For Families and Peaceful Vibes

A calm coastal town ideal for families, Sanur has a beautiful expansive beachfront. With a relaxed atmosphere, it is the perfect place to stay for older travelers or parents who are traveling with young kids.

• Ideal for: Those who are traveling with families, older travelers and those seeking a relaxed atmosphere.
• Highlights: Calm beaches, paved beach promenade, traditional markets

If you want to stay in a quiet and calm place in Bali, Sanur could be the best place to live in Bali for you. Not just for peace seekers, it is also one of the Bali best places to stay for those who want to avoid the party culture.

6. Nusa Dua – For Luxury Resorts and Honeymooners

A paradise for luxury lovers, Nusa Dua is home to Bali’s high-end all-inclusive resorts and exotic private beaches. This place is spotless, quiet and safe, which makes it an ideal place to stay for a stress free holiday. 

• Ideal for: For those visiting for their honeymoon, travelers who want to stay in resorts, tourists traveling business conferences. 
• Highlights: Private beaches, golf courses, water sports

You need to have a higher budget if you are planning to stay here. Nasa Dua is definitely one of the Bali best places to stay, especially if you want to stay at luxurious resorts. For those who are older, this might be the best place to live in Bali because of its peaceful atmosphere.

7. Amed and the East Coast – For Diving and Local Life

With neighbouring places like Tulamben, exotic and clean diving spots, and authentic Balinese way of life, Amed is a rare and stunning place to stay in Bali.

• Ideal for: Travelers seeking pristine diving spots, adventure lovers, budget-conscious tourists
• Highlights: Shipwreck diving, coral reefs, traditional fishing villages

Although this is a remote location, it is still considered one of the best place to live in Bali for tourists looking for a serene atmosphere. Those who love adventure should definitely consider this one of the Bali best places to stay. 

Final Thoughts: Where Is the Best Place to Stay Bali?

The answer to this question depends on what kind of experience you want. For those who are digital nomads, Canggu could be the best place to live in Bali. For families, Sanur offers a great vibe. Those who are seeking a luxurious stay, Nusa Dua or Seminyak would be a fantastic choice. It does not really matter what your preferences are as far as making memories is concerned, for there are plenty of Bali best places to stay that will make sure you leave with a bag full of amazing experiences.

Regardless of whether you are staying for a week or a year, make sure you choose the right place to stay in Bali so that you can enjoy all that this fantastic magical island has to offer.