Where to Stay in Bali
Bali truly has something for everyone.
Uluwatu boasts some of the world’s best surf spots, coupled with a laid-back beach town vibe that draws both locals and tourists. For those seeking wellness, Ubud has become a global destination for yoga retreats and spiritual cleansings set within a dense jungle. Canggu boasts lively beach clubs, foodie hotspots, and an Instagram-worthy atmosphere, attracting influencers and party-goers alike. Adventurous spirits will find their fix in Munduk, where they can chase waterfalls and explore the lush, mountainous terrain. Looking for peace and quiet? Head to the serene village of Sidemen, where you can soak in the tranquil natural scenery. For a more remote escape, take a 30-minute ferry ride to the Nusa Islands, where Nusa Penida’s towering cliffs and pristine beaches offer myriad opportunities for adventure, while Nusa Lembongan’s turquoise waters and sea-view beach cafes provide a more relaxing getaway. And if that’s not enough, the nearby Gili Islands, Sumberkima, and Jatiluwih await with their own unique attractions and cultures to discover. With so much to explore, Bali and the surrounding islands offer a never-ending adventure for all types of travelers.
Uluwatu
Best for: Surfers & Beach Bums
Uluwatu holds a special place in my heart. It's where everything comes together in perfect harmony. Think stunning turquoise beaches, vibrant nightclubs perched on cliff edges, world-class waves that lure surfers from all corners, warm-hearted locals, and incredible food. Plus, enjoy tropical weather, a laid-back vibe, and fewer crowds compared to bustling Canggu or Ubud. Situated at the southernmost tip of Bali, just an hour away from DPS airport, this destination is an absolute must for any itinerary. Plan for a minimum of 3 blissful nights here.
Best time to visit: May - October
Length of stay: 3-7 nights
Food: ☆☆☆☆
Crowds: Medium
Nightlife: ☆☆☆☆
Bohemian Bela Uluwatu Google Map
FREE Google Map of the bet spots in Uluwatu, curated by me.
Munduk
Best for: Mountain & Waterfall Lovers
With its winding roads, lush greenery as far as the eye can see, and wild hydrangea fields, Munduk is without a doubt one of the most breathtakingly beautiful spots in all of Bali. Located just two hours up North from the bustling hub of Ubud, a journey along thickening forests, rice terraces, and majestic hills humming with Balinese life will take you to this charming village nestled in the mountainous region of Bali.
At an elevation of 1000 meters above sea level, Munduk offers a refreshing escape from the heat of the coastal regions, with cooler temperatures and a misty ambiance that hangs in the air. The town exudes an aura of tranquility and serenity, with its scenic mountain views and no crowds to disrupt the peace. It is the perfect spot to unwind and recharge, with cozy accommodations and a waterfall at every twist and turn. The best part? No crowds.
Best time to visit: May - November
Length of stay: 2-3 nights
Food: ☆☆
Crowds: Empty
Nightlife: ☆
Nature: ☆☆☆☆☆
Nusa Lembongan
Best for: Laid-back vibes, surf shacks & ocean views
Nusa Lembongan is an idyllic piece of paradise 30 minutes off the coast of Bali. With crystal clear turquoise waters, cute cafes on the water, and laid-back beach clubs, it is the very definition of “island life.” Spend your mornings walking along the coast of Jungut Batu, your day’s paddle boarding in the crystal clear waters or surfing Playgrounds, and watch sunsets at the Pontoon or Ohana's beach club. There's good food, laid-back beach clubs, and the best beaches in Bali. This is on my list of cannot miss.
Best time to visit: May - December
Length of stay: 3 nights
Food: ☆☆☆☆
Crowds: Mellow
Nightlife: ☆☆☆
Nature: ☆☆☆☆☆
Kintamani
Best for: Spending a night glamping under the Bali stars, nature lovers, hiking
Escape the hustle and bustle of Ubud and venture just 1 hour away to the enchanting village of Kintamani. Nestled among three majestic volcanoes, Mount Abang, Mount Batur, and Mount Agung, this hidden gem offers breathtaking vistas, cloud-kissed cafes, and charming boutique glamping options. While many visitors come here to conquer Mount Batur's famous hiking trails, a select few opt for an intimate camping experience in the mountains. Find yourself watching the sunset over the volcanoes and lakes, sipping old-fashioned and roasting marshmallows by the fire at night. This is the perfect place to experience a different side of Bali.
Best time to visit: May - December
Length of Stay: 1 night
Food: ☆☆
Crowds: Mellow
Nightlife: ☆
Nature: ☆☆☆☆☆
Ubud
Best for: Wellness Guru’s & Yogi’s
Enveloped in lush greenery with a temple on every corner, Ubud emerges as the vibrant heart of art and culture in Bali. Revered as the enchanting backdrop of the iconic movie "Eat, Pray, Love," this bustling city captivates amidst its dense jungle. Overflowing with vegan food, yoga training, and wellness retreats, this is the perfect spot to unwind & focus on yourself. While the city center buzzes with activity, the outskirts of Ubud offer a peaceful sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle. Prepare to indulge in breathtaking views, riverside spa treatments, and beautiful waterfalls. Not to mention: Ubud is a food lover's paradise.
Best time to visit: May - October
Length of Stay: 3-7 Nights
Food: ☆☆☆☆☆
Crowds: Packed
Nightlife: ☆☆
Canggu
Best for: Foodies, Digital Nomads & the Life of the Party
Although Canggu boasts a plethora of mouthwatering Instagram-worthy cafes, luxurious spas, and chic Aussie boutiques, it can be a bit overwhelming for those seeking a genuine Balinese experience. The nightlife scene is bustling and lively, with clubs and bars lining every inch of the shoreline, providing the perfect atmosphere for a fun-filled night out on the town. However, it's essential to note that Canggu's Western influence has led to a lack of authentic Balinese culture. The rice fields that once cascaded across the land have been replaced by sprawling villa complexes and poolclubs, threatening the natural landscape and the local community's way of life.
As a proponent of sustainable and ecologically mindful travel, Canggu isn’t my personal favorite. The incessant traffic and lack of attention to the environment result in an unclean and chaotic environment, detracting from the natural beauty of Bali. Nevertheless, it's still worth visiting Canggu for a few days for some shopping, spa time, and a night out.
Best time to visit: May - October
Length of Stay: 2-3 Nights
Food: ☆☆☆☆☆
Crowds: Jam-Packed
Nightlife: ☆☆☆☆☆
Culture: -☆
Nusa Penida
Best for: Instagram pictures
Escape to Nusa Penida, a hidden gem just 30 minutes away from Bali. This once-underrated island has exploded in popularity thanks to its breathtaking beauty showcased on Instagram. However, my two visits had me leaving a night early both times..
While Nusa Penida remains one of the most stunning places on this planet, its charm has unfortunately been overshadowed by rampant commercialization and overwhelming tourism. Even at 6 am, Diamond Beach was already bustling with crowds. Imagine what it's like by noon!
The famous treehouse charged for a photo, all the while “on the floor” by Jennifer Lopez blared in the background. The attractions are overcrowded with vendors trying to sell you things, and the sad truth is that trash can be found everywhere.
In spite of all this, we were able to find a few hidden gems.
As for whether or not we'll return to Penida, that remains uncertain. It serves as a somber reminder of the stark contrast between Instagram's idealized version and the harsh realities of mass tourism and excessive consumption.
Best time to visit: May - September
Length of Stay: Day trip or 1 night
Food: ☆☆☆
Crowds: HIGH as can be
Nightlife: ☆
Nature: ☆☆☆☆ (-1 due to commercialization)
Pro tip: The only way to do Nusa Penida is to spend a night or two and wake up at 6 am to beat the crowds & traffic.
Sidemen
Best for: An authentic Balinese experience
If you’re looking to escape the typical Bali tourist traps, venture off to Sidemen, a hidden gem located in the jungles of East Bali. With rice terraces as far as the eye can see, tropical waterfalls, eco-friendly and ultra-luxe bamboo homes, and unmatched Balinese hospitality, this remote village tucked away in the foothills of Mount Agung offers a glimpse of untouched, authentic Bali. Add a few extra nights here onto your itinerary - it'll be worth every second!
Best time to visit: May - October
Length of Stay: 2 nights
Food: ☆☆☆
Crowds: Low
Nightlife: ☆
Nature: ☆☆☆☆
The Gili Islands
Best for: Parties in Paradise (Gili T), An quaint island escape (Gili Air), Honeymooners (Gili Meno)
Off the northwest coast of Lombok lies a group of three idyllic islands, known as the Gili’s. With tropical turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees, these tiny islands are a traveler’s paradise. If you’re familiar with Bali or planning a trip there, you’ve probably heard of the popular Gili T, where partygoers soak up the sun and indulge in the many beach clubs pumping music until late. For a more relaxed atmosphere, vacationers flock to Gili Air, where boutique resorts, seaside cafes, and beach clubs make for a dreamy escape. But for those seeking a quieter oasis, the lesser-known Gili Meno offers all the charm of its siblings without the overwhelming crowds.
Best time to visit: April - December
Length of Stay: 2-5 nights
Food: ☆☆☆
Crowds: High (Gili T), Medium (Gili Air), Low (Gili Meno)
Nightlife: ☆ - ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Nature: ☆☆☆☆
Sumberkima
Best for: Off the beaten path adventures, diving, peace & quiet
Sumberkima is a rarely visited part of Bali, nestled up in the Northwest near the national park. The few who do make their way here usually visit Menjangan bay, home to Bali's most stunning coral reserve. During our visit, we stumbled upon a must-do experience: planting corals or mangrove trees with metamorforsa Bali. Not only does this activity allow you to contribute to the environment, but it's also an incredible way to reduce your carbon footprint while immersing yourself in the beauty of Bali. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to make a difference while traveling.
Best time to visit: March- November
Length of Stay: 1-2 Nights
Food: ☆☆
Crowds: Barely another person in sight
Nightlife: ☆
Nature: ☆☆☆
Sumberkima Resorts, Airbnb’s & Homestays
Jatiluwih
Best for: Rice terraces
Looking for stunning rice terraces in Bali? Skip the underwhelming Tegallalang and head to Jatiluwih! Just an hour away from Ubud, this UNESCO-protected heritage site will leave you in awe- with very few crowds. Prepare to be amazed by the vast expanse of rice fields, complete with breathtaking waterfalls and thriving natural beauty. This spot is perfect for a quick day trip.
Best time to visit: May - October
Length of Stay: Day-Trip
Food: ☆
Crowds: Low
Nightlife: ☆
Nature: ☆☆☆☆
Pro-tip: The rice terraces are most beautiful 1-month before harvest.
Bali’s best resorts, ecostays, homestays, and hostels.
*** when you book using my links, I earn a small fee to help fund my free content & travel guides.
Explore Destinations in Bali, Indonesia
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Gili Meno, Lombok
Picture a tiny island surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters. There are no cars or motorbikes (only horse-drawn carriages) and scarcely any people. Gili Meno may be Bali’s best kept secret.
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![With crystal clear turquoise waters, beach front day clubs, and laid-back island life, Nusa Lembongan is an idyllic piece of paradise off the coast of Bali.]()
Nusa Lembongan
With crystal clear turquoise waters, beach front day clubs, and laid-back island life, Nusa Lembongan is an idyllic piece of paradise off the coast of Bali.
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![Cooler temperatures, waterfalls at every corner, the famous Ulun Danu Bratan temple & stunning sunsets. Munduk is the most underrated spot in all of Bali.]()
Munduk
Cooler temperatures, waterfalls at every corner, the famous Ulun Danu Bratan temple & stunning sunsets. Munduk is the most underrated spot in all of Bali.
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Sidemen
A glimpse of “old Bali,” Sidemen offers an escape from the crowds in Ubud and Seminyak. Spend the days wandering through secluded rice fields and stay in elaborate eco-friendly bamboo homes.
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![Towering Cliffs, beautiful scenery, and Bali's best beaches.]()
Nusa Penida
Towering Cliffs, beautiful scenery, and Bali's best beaches.
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Ubud
Set amidst the quiet jungle, Ubud is filled with healthy cafes, yoga studios, wellness spas…and of course, monkeys.
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Keramas
Lying in the foothills of Mount Agung, and frequented by Kelly Slater, Keramas offers a sanctuary for surfers.
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Canggu
Streets packed to the brim with hipster cafes, a spa on every corner, and an overflow of beach & night clubs. The hustle & bustle of Canggu has a little of something for everyone.
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West Bali
The lesser-known side of Bali. Known for its longest left wave and it’s black sand beaches. Spend a few days in Medewi or Balian for some peace and quiet.
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Uluwatu
A sleepy little surf town with laid back vibes, cute cafes, and world class beach clubs all within a 10 minute drive.
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![Kintamani]()
Kintamani
Nestled among three majestic volcanoes, Mount Abang, Mount Batur, and Mount Agung, this hidden gem offers breathtaking vistas, cloud-kissed cafes, and charming boutique glamping options.
Take the Hassle Out of Travel Planning
Planning your trip to Bali should be a breeze, but with so many amazing attractions and hidden spots on this beautiful island, it can get overwhelming. That's why I created the ultimate Bali Google Map! Take the stress out of travel planning- this map has been curated for travelers and includes over 500+ pre-pinned locations.
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This map contains 500+ Google pins, including:
Where to stay: everything from hostels & local homestays to eco-luxe Airbnb’s and luxurious 5-star resorts- all in prime locations.
Secret waterfalls, beaches, ricefields, temples, and viewpoints.
Attractions in hotspots like Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Seminyak, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and Nusa Ceningan.
Attractions in lesser-known areas such as Munduk, Sidemen, Lovina, Kintamani, Amed, Tabanan, Keramas, & West Bali.
Where to eat: cafes, coffeeshops, local warungs, and full-blown dining experiences.
Travel essentials: where to find Western-grade medical care, pharmacies, grocery stores, laundry, my visa agents, reliable ATM’s, etc.
The best beaches & prime surf breaks.
My favorite spas, wellness centers, and yoga studios.
The most Insta-worthy spots on the island.
Where to play: beachclubs, sunset-spots, speakeasys (you can even get a free tattoo when you buy a taco at one Canggu hotspot!).
Harbors, airports, and other transport points.
Insider tips for the smoothest travel, happy hour deals, and more!
Temples, markets, water-palaces, local trekking, and scenic viewpoints.
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No WIFI, no problem. Simply download Google Maps offline on your phone to secure access no matter your signal.
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This Google map will automatically update to your phone whenever I add a new location, tip, or region of Bali
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Once purchased, I will grant your email access to the Google map. You then have unlimited access to 500+ locations in Bali at your fingertips.
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I did the work so you don’t have to! I read countless blogs, scrolled endlessly on Instagram, and even bought a few guidebooks to plan my 3-month Bali trip. After all this, I pinned everything on this Google map and planned my itinerary by grouping things from my maps together. I ended up finding the best spots & making my travel days as smooth as possible!
Travel insurance is a non-negotiable in my book. World Nomad’s covers emergency medical costs (Bali Belly!), theft & damage (if a monkey steals your phone), unexpected cancellation or trip delays, and so much more. Already traveling? No problem. You can buy or extend your coverage whenever you want.
