Where To Stay in Bali: 4 Popular Regions for Backpacking, Beaches & Accommodations

Bali is a dream destination offering something for every kind of traveler, from the laid-back backpacker to the luxury-loving vacationer. Choosing where to stay plays a huge role in shaping your Bali experience. Some areas are known for vibrant nightlife and beach parties, while others are famous for tranquil rice fields, sacred temples, and yoga retreats.

If you’re new to Bali, it helps to know that the island’s regions each have a unique personality. The southern beaches are perfect for those who want to surf, swim, or just lounge by the ocean. Central Bali charms visitors with cultural treasures, art markets, and scenic landscapes. Up north and to the east, things are a bit quieter—ideal for travelers seeking adventure, waterfalls, and peaceful villages.

Make the most of your time by deciding what you’d like to do and where to stay in Bali before you get there, and then plan your days around where the fun is. If you’re more apt to spend your time snorkeling and beach-bumming, head south. If hiking and nature are more your cup of tea, point your compass north and northeast. Plus, no matter where you choose to stay, Bali is easy to explore, with many areas only a short drive away from each other. Renting a scooter, booking a driver, or even joining day tours can help you see the different sides of the island during your stay.

Whether you’re searching for lively beach towns, artistic villages, serene mountains, or hidden gems off the beaten path, there’s a perfect spot in Bali waiting for you. By picking the right base for your interests, you’ll have a much easier time fitting in all the activities and relaxation you’ve been dreaming of. Let’s dive into the top regions to stay in Bali!

AGODA EXTRA: Bali is famous for its stunning white sand beaches, but did you know that many of the island’s coastal regions are actually covered in black sand? The peculiar attractions were formed from the cooled lava of Mount Agung, giving Bali’s famous beachfront sunsets a whole new appeal!

1. MAIN SOUTH BALI – Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran

Bali’s southernmost region supplies enough beaches, luxury resorts and mega shopping centers for anyone to get their groove on. Mix it up by surfing in the afternoon and watching traditional fire dancers at night. Each region is unique, and you’ll never run out of things to do in southern Bali.

Kuta: Close to the airport, Kuta is the party epicenter of Bali. The district is packed with nightclubs and bars, night markets, theme parks, shopping malls and spectacular beaches.

Check In to The Anvaya Beach Resort – Bali, Step Out to Kuta

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Kuta Beach | Discovery Shopping Mall

Check In to IZE Hotel Seminyak, Step Out to Seminyak

Seminyak: Slightly more relaxed and a bit more upscale, Seminyak’s vibe attracts travelers looking for five-star resorts, designer boutiques and exquisite coastal scenery. Stroll down Kayu Aya for the finest dining in Bali, and hit Camplung Tanduk for upscale and gay-friendly nightlife.

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Seminyak Beach | Seminyak Square

Check In to The Slow, Step Out to Canggu

Canggu: For surfing, diving and a good mix of backpackers and beach bums, head to Canggu. Explore rice terraces at sunrise, and blog about it from a hip coffee shop in the afternoon.

Check In to Ulu Segara Luxury Suites & Villas, Step Out to Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua: White sand beaches, high-end resorts and exquisite rooftop bars line the streets of Bali’s southeastern coastal region. Stroll through manicured flower gardens in posh neighborhoods while feeling safe under 24-hour tourist police protection.

BTDC: This gated, luxury community within Nusa Dua features upscale beach dining and romantic getaways. Prices are steep, but romance tops the charts in this hotspot for honeymooners.

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Nusa Dua Beach

Check In to Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali, Step Out to Benoa Beach

Benoa: Popular for water sports and a totally cool atmosphere, Benoa’s peninsular coast makes it a popular destination for younger crowds and adventurous families looking for island thrills on a budget.

Check In to AYANA Resort and Spa, BALI, Step Out to Jimbaran

Jimbaran: A quick jaunt from the airport, Jimbaran is the foodie’s choice for fresh seafood restaurants and markets. The region is not famous for its nightlife but rather for its local charm, picture-perfect sunsets and safe swimming areas.

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Jimbaran Beach

Check In to Anantara Uluwati Bali Resort, Step Out to Uluwatu

Uluwatu: About as far south as you can go in Bali is where you’ll find Uluwatu, known best for its seaside temple with kecak fire dances, monkey forests and private beach clubs.

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Uluwatu Beach | Uluwatu Temple

2. CENTRAL BALI – Ubud, Kintamani, Tegallalang

Trade in the buzz of southern Bali for serene treks through rice terraces, Indonesian cooking schools and yoga sessions overlooking the jungle.

Ubud: Bulk up on Indonesian culture by joining a traditional art class or learning to make authentic Bali cuisine. A natural paradise, Ubud is the best place on the island to watch traditional dances and see lots of monkeying around – literally!

Check In to Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Spa by L’Occitane, Step Out to Ubud

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Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Check In to Sandat Glamping Tents, Step Out to Kintamani

Tegallalang and Kintamani: Spend some time camping on the northern side of Central Bali, where rice terraces are aplenty, and sunset views from atop Mount Batur are priceless.

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Tegallalang Rice Terrace | Mount Batur | Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

3. EAST BALI – Sanur, Karangasem

You’ll find fewer crowds and lots of locals on Bali’s east side. Learn to dive, or explore an active volcano!

Sanur: A favorite for families, Sanur offers protected swimming areas, pristine market areas and easy day tours to Penida, Lembongan and Ceningan islands.

Check In to ARTOTEL Sanur – Bali, Check Out to Sanur

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Sanur Beach

Check In to Villa Sidemen, Step Out to Karangasem

Karangasem: A trip to Bali would not be complete without at least one look at Mount Agung, the island’s famous active volcano and highest point in Bali. Residents living within 12 kilometers of the volcano were evacuated in late 2017, but danger levels have been reduced since that time. Regardless of what you hear, though, travelers are advised to check the official status of the mountain before visiting.

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Mount Agung | Besakih Temple

4. NORTHWEST BALI – Lovina, Medewi, Negara, Gilimanuk, Menjangan Island

Don’t forget about the allure of the northwest when planning an expedition through Bali. Coastal regions in the north are popular for dolphin viewing and black sand beaches, and waterfalls in the area are almost infinite.

Lovina – Even if you’re not a morning person, getting up before sunrise to view dolphins off the coast of Lovina Beach is worth the extra effort.

Check In to The Lovina, Step Out to Lovina Beach

Medewi, Negara, Gilimanuk: Hire a driver to take a long drive up the east coast where long stretches of quiet road and majestic coastal views put a relaxed spin on island sightseeing.

Menjangan Island: Named after the native deer that inhabit the island, Menjangan Island is part of Bali Barat National Park and features pristine diving and uninhibited views of natural wildlife.

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West Bali National Park | Negara