What are the best destinations to visit in Bali?
There is no simple answer to this. Bali is a very diverse island, with each destination offering something quite different. If you are visiting Bali for the first time, this should be the page you spend the most time exploring before booking a hotel.
Each area has its own unique vibe, culture, activities, travelers, and positives and negatives. We suggest you browse through this page and read the short descriptions for each location to get a feel for what might suit you best, and also have a look at the maps to understand a bit more about where each area is located, before booking your accommodation.
Destination Overview
Bali’s Main Destinations Introduction
Canggu & Berawa
Canggu (including Berawa and Pererenan) is Bali’s most up-and-coming destination. There’s something for everyone, from backpackers to partygoers to families and spiritual seekers. Feels like Ubud but with a beach and a touch of Seminyak. Despite a few traffic jams, digital nomads and surfers love it here.There is a big range of accommodation choices, as well as coffee shops, bars, beach clubs, gyms, spas, and yoga studios.
#everything #beachclubs #yoga #party #coworking #healthyfood #coffeeshops #smoothiebowls #sunset
Canggu Travel Guide
Kuta & Tuban
Kuta is the most popular travel destination beside Seminyak, Ubud and Canggu. This low-cost alternative is perfect for individuals who want to have fun at the beach without breaking the bank. You may buy souvenirs, dine at fast food chains and chain restaurants, and stay at hotels that are typically 3 or 4 ratings. Australians and “backpackers” love it here.
#party #young #veryaffordable #easysurf #sunset #bintangbeer #lovedbyaussis #beachwalkshopping #legendary
Seminyak & Petitenget
If you travel north from Kuta, you will find Seminyak & Petitenget, which is perhaps Bali’s most well-known destination. Beach Clubs, Shops & Boutiques, and Luxury Villas & Resorts can all be found here. There are some incredible restaurants and culinary marvels nearby.This is the finest place to start exploring the nightlife of Bali, with its great international crowd.
#nightlife #greatfood #mixed #easysurf #sunset #shopping #luxury #villas #beach #spas
Ubud
Ubud is Bali’s cultural and artistic center where people from all over the globe come to attend seminars and workshops focused on taking care of their mind, body, and soul and finding more balance and well-being in all parts of their lives.
Excellent location from which to explore Bali’s center and north, including its many surrounding temples, waterfalls, and rice terraces. Don’t forget about the traditional dance shows and the monkey forest, either. Ubud is popular among digital nomads due to its amazing coffee shops, co-working spaces, and healthy food options.
#spiritual #art #temples #coolbreeze #nature #relaxed #digitalnomads #tours #shopping #monkeyforest #ubudmarket
Jimbaran & Kedonganan
A beautiful bay in a more relaxed part of Bali. Beach resorts for families with some of Bali’s most iconic hotels.The southern end of the beach is known as Kedonganan, and it is well-known for its beachside seafood BBQ. Jimbaran is just south of the airport and a great spot to explore the southern peninsular (Bukit). Overall it’s a very quiet destination.
#families #relaxed #whitesand #seafood #romantic #sunset #4to5star
Ungasan & Kutuh
Quiet and remote, nestled on Bali’s most southern tip, with stunning coastline and steep cliffs. It is home to some of the best resorts, beach clubs, luxury villas and estates. Ungasan in particular, is popular for weddings and honeymoons. There is no real “center” to go for a stroll, so you definitely need transportation.
#cliffs #savayaclub #villas #remote #nature #villas #luxury
Uluwatu & Pecatu
The south west coast of the Bukit Peninsular has white sandy beaches in Balangan, Padang Padang, and Bingin. Backpackers, surfers, and now digital nomads love it here. Pecatu, which is quieter and more laid back, is home to some of the best luxury villas in Bali, as well as upcoming 4-5 star resorts in Pecatu with a golf course.
#surfing #cliffs #whitesand #remote #nomads #temple #uluwatutemple
Nusa Dua
Away from it all, on the south-west tip of Bali. The international beachfront resorts here have wonderful restaurants and bars and attract visitors from all over the world.
The area is often chosen for events with a universal theme, such as weddings, honeymoons, international meetings, and other large-scale gatherings. The beach and the sea are perfect for a relaxed holiday and for families with kids.
#luxury #beach #vip #5-star-resorts #culinary #conventions #golf #celebrities #familyfriendly #dining #romantic
Legian
Legian, which is north of Kuta, is a quieter option and Kuta, while it is still close to bars and clubs and the vibrant nightlife.
Families from Down Under frequent here because of the variety of hotels, cafes, and shops available. Still reasonably priced, there are a number of high-end 4-star hotels and many gift shops to choose from. Beautiful beach for swimming and surfing.
#beach #mixed #affordable #easysurf #sunset #families #3to4sar #shops
Sanur
As one of Bali’s “oldest” tourist destinations, it has managed to stay charming, serene, and quiet. It’s great for kids because the beach is safe for swimming and it has a beautiful promenade with hotels and restaurants right on the beach. There are a lot of 3- to 5-star hotels, a residential area, and a new port where the boats to Lembongan and Penida leave. Favorite destination for foreign retirees. Great for a romantic getaway and a relaxed Bali holiday.
#families #relaxed #calmbeach #serene #romantic #traditional #authentic #promenade #divecenters #escaperooms
Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan & Nusa Penida
Also known as Bali’s Golden Triangle. From Sanur, it takes 45 minutes by boat to reach Bali’s three “sister islands.” Some compare it to Bali 30 years ago, but with a more comfortable atmosphere. A tropical paradise with some of the area’s best diving. Small bungalow hotels rule the roost, with simple but decent restaurants. However, in order to get around, you must be able to ride a scooter.
#tropical #adventure #whitesand #paradise #romantic #scubadiving #molamola #nocars #guesthouses
Candidase
East Bali’s main tourism area, yet still quiet and remote, with decent accommodations. Excellent starting point for day trips and excursions, including snorkeling and diving.
#diving #remote #quiet #raw #simple #nature
Sidemen
Sidemen – an authentic Bali experience of being surrounded by rural Balinese life. Even if you can’t stay long, Sidemen is worth the visit for an adventure vastly different to what you’d get on the west side. Sidemen hotels are a bit more rustic and homelier, where you get to enjoy stunning views of natural landscapes and be in the midst of a relaxing atmosphere.
#eastbali #sidemen #remote #nature #waterfalls #riceterraces #rafting
Amed & Tulamben
The area is home to two quiet, down-to-earth fishing villages in Bali’s northwestern region, and it is well-known for scuba diving and snorkeling, nature tours, and amazing views from Mount Agung. The less well-known beaches and villages of Jemeluk, Lipah, and Selang are nearby and well worth a visit.
#diving #remote #blacksand #raw #simple #nature #apnoe #quiet #yoga #serene #backpacking
Batukaru, Tanah Lot & Tabanan
The area stretches from the coast of Tanah Lot Temple to the north of Batukaru Mountain. Known for eco-retreats and eco-tourism. It’s remote, quiet, and full of nature, with rice terraces and cacao plantations, making it ideal for trekking and waterfalls.
#batukaru #remote #nature #eco #waterfalls #riceterraces #temples
Bedugul, Puncak & Baturiti
Similar to Kintamani, this is located in Bali’s Highlands, with lakes, hot springs, forests, amazing trekking, fruit and coffee plantations, and the majestic Mount Batur volcano. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, these areas boast a refreshing climate, lush greenery, and serene lakes.
Bedugul is renowned for its iconic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, set against the backdrop of Lake Beratan, while Baturiti offers a tranquil escape with its rural ambiance and traditional Balinese charm. Together, these neighboring destinations create an enchanting retreat for travelers seeking natural beauty, cultural experiences.
#highlands #remote #nature #eco #waterfalls #coffeeplantations #temples #twinlakes #trekking
Kintamani & Mount Batur
Kintamani, a captivating tourist destination in Bali, its a breathtaking highland region offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Located in the regency of Bangli, Kintamani is famed for its awe-inspiring vistas of Mount Batur, an active volcano, and the serene Lake Batur.
The cool mountain air, lush landscapes, and proximity to unique cultural attractions make Kintamani an alluring destination for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid hiker, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in Balinese culture, Kintamani promises an unforgettable experience.
#highlands #remote #nature #eco #waterfalls #coffeeplantations #temples #danaubratan #trekking #mountbatur
Lombok & The Gilis
Lombok is known for its pristine natural landscapes, incredibly pleasant roads, and excellent surf. Get ready to climb Mount Rinjani, one of Indonesia”s most beautiful volcanos. Motorsport enthusiasts really like the brand-new Mandalika Race Track. The Gilis, a group of tropical islands, are popular with motor-free enthusiasts, particularly young people and newlyweds.
#rinjani #nature #trekking #surfing #raw #mandalika #quiet #pearls #diving #gilis #fullmoonpartytrawangan