7 Best Places to Stay in Bali for First Timers

Best Places to Stay in Bali: Recommendations for First-Time Travelers

  • InCorp Editorial Team
  • 5 July 2024
  • 6 minutes reading time

Bali offers an unforgettable travel experience and a lucrative investment opportunity. If you’re looking for a streamlined selection process of the best places to stay in Bali, make sure you read this thoroughly. 

This guide ensures a comfortable and productive base for exploring the island’s many facets. Furthermore, establishing a presence in Bali through strategic property investment can unlock additional advantages. 

Let this guide be your gateway to unlocking Bali’s full potential—both as a travel destination and an investment opportunity.

Why Should You Stay in Bali?

7 Best Places to Stay in Bali for First Timers

Bali provides a distinctive and captivating lifestyle that draws individuals globally, and people are actively looking for the best places to stay in Bali.

Its stunning beaches, verdant scenery, and lively cultural environment make it one of the best reasons to live in Bali, especially for those desiring a more relaxed pace of life.

Apart from harboring the best places to stay, Bali has a warm climate and hospitable culture among the residents, adding uniqueness and authenticity to its overall allure.

Moreover, the cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western nations, enabling expatriates to enjoy a high standard of living without excessive expenses.

Which Area in Bali is the Best to Stay in?

Bali offers unforgettable experiences in many areas, making it one of the best places to stay. These seven areas each provide unique yet equally compelling experiences worth exploring.

Seminyak

For those seeking affordable luxury accommodations, unique bars and restaurants, or excellent shopping, Seminyak is one of the best places to stay in Bali. However, it can be crowded, and prices are higher than in other areas, so budgeting accordingly is important.

Kuta

Kuta is renowned for its stunning beaches, perfect for surfing and sunbathing, and its vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and beach clubs. If you have an active lifestyle, Kuta is definitely one of the best places to stay in Bali.

While Kuta is great for family vacations, it can get crowded and is still under heavy development, leading to construction sites.

Canggu

Canggu has gained popularity due to its beach proximity and relaxed atmosphere, attracting digital nomads and hipster travelers. Note that Canggu does not allow online taxis or bikes, so renting a car is advisable for exploring.

Sanur

Sanur is ideal for a relaxing stay with beautiful beaches like Sanur Beach, which are perfect for swimming, water sports, or simply taking a dip. While it’s great for a 4-5 night vacation, activities are limited to beach resorts, so visiting other areas is recommended for a broader experience.

Ubud

Ubud is a serene destination known for relaxation and Balinese culture, with opportunities to visit the Ubud Monkey Forest and take classes in jewelry-making or cooking. Looking for serenity, Ubud is one of the best places to stay in Bali.

North Bali

North Bali offers natural beauty, with black sand beaches, waterfalls, and tropical gardens. It provides a serene experience with fewer tourists.

Uluwatu

Uluwatu is a fantastic area with high cliffs offering stunning Indian Ocean views and small beaches. However, it is secluded and an hour’s drive from Seminyak, which may be inconvenient for nightlife and higher prices, so plan your budget accordingly.

Where Should I Stay When I First Go to Bali?

For those visiting this beautiful island for the first time, exploring some of the best places to stay in Bali is essential. Each place offers unique experiences that capture the essence of Bali’s diverse and vibrant culture.

Ubud

Looking for one of the best places to stay in Bali, Ubud is ideal if you want to experience traditional Balinese culture. You’ll find beautiful hotels and a variety of hostels in the town and nearby villages. The best areas to stay include:

  • Ubud Center: Central and convenient
  • Penestanan: Offers an authentic village experience
  • Tegalalang: Home to Bali’s most stunning rice terraces

Canggu

Canggu is a surf town turned digital nomad hotspot, ideal for meeting other travelers, surfing, and enjoying beautiful sunsets from trendy beach bars. The top areas to stay are:

  • Batu Bolong: The most central
  • Berawa: Close to the center, full of restaurants, but busy with traffic
  • Pererenan: Slightly outside the main town, near peaceful rice terraces

Seminyak

Seminyak offers a lively, city-like atmosphere, beachfront access, and proximity to many sightseeing spots. The best places to stay include:

  • Oberoi: Centrally located
  • Petitenget: Quieter and more relaxed
  • Double Six: Most affordable

Uluwatu and Bukit Peninsula

Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula feature stunning coastal scenery with beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, and ocean views. Recommended areas include:

  • Pecatu: Everything within a 20-minute scooter ride
  • Padang-Padang Beach: Best for surfing
  • Ungasan: Quieter with excellent beach clubs

Amed

This lesser-known area is excellent for exploring Bali’s authentic, traditional side. Amed’s 10km coastline is lined with fishing villages, black and white sand beaches, top diving spots, and a laid-back vibe. The top areas to stay are:

  • Jemeluk: Best for snorkeling and diving
  • Amed Beach: Most central
  • Bali Aga village: Most traditional
  • Bunutan: Beautiful natural scenery

Sidemen

Sidemen is a serene area with stunning rice terraces and views of Mount Agung. Recommended areas include:

  • Sidemen village: The main village with traditional weaving shops and a local market
  • Selat: Known for beautiful bamboo villas

Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is a luxurious tropical paradise with white sand beaches, golf courses, and 5-star hotels. The best areas to stay are:

  • Mengiat Beach: Best for swimming and snorkeling
  • Nusa Dua Beach: Most central
  • Tanjung Benoa: Best for watersports

Why You Should Consider Investing in Bali Property

The demand for property in Bali has been steadily increasing. People are actively seeking the best places to stay in Bali. Therefore, it is inevitable that the island is presenting many alternatives nowadays, ranging from luxurious villas to more budget-friendly options.

Moreover, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming locals, it’s one of the best places to stay in Bali and one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Whether you plan to rent out your property or enjoy the paradise yourself, investing in Bali real estate is a wise decision.

Given impressive rental yields in recent years, the trend of buying property in Bali has experienced substantial growth.

Begin Your Real Estate Journey in Bali with InCorp

InCorp Indonesia offers premier property investment services, which various clients have trusted for their real estate needs in Bali.

We offer comprehensive services, including Bali property and land & property ownership assistance. Our extensive listings cover many options, from luxury villas to land for sale, catering to all investment preferences.

So, forget the hassle of navigating the market alone and welcome the best support for your property investment. Begin your Bali real estate journey with InCorp by completing the form below.

David Susandi

Branch Manager – Bali Office at InCorp Indonesia

Holding 11 years of experience in various roles, including project manager, operational manager, and corporate strategist, David Susandi is a prominent figure for many entrepreneurial organizations expanding in Indonesia.

Get in touch with us.

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