You May Never Leave Bali…
Unsurprisingly, everyone LOVES Bali—this island has it all! Rich culture, jaw-dropping views, affordable luxury, warm hospitality, epic food, and endless good vibes. Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Bali welcomes travellers worldwide with open arms.
This Southeast Asian gem isn’t just an island—it’s an experience! From epic surf and golden sunsets to ancient temples and trendy cafes, Bali has something for everyone. No wonder it’s a top spot on every travel bucket list!
In this blog, I’ll share top areas to stay, must-do activities, and insider tips to help you plan the best trip. I’ve been to Bali a few times—my last solo trip lasted a whole month—and trust me, you’ll love it! So… are you ready? Let’s go!
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Good To Know Tips For Bali
Language: Indonesian is the official language in Bali, but Balinese is widely spoken, especially in cultural settings. Many locals also speak English, making communication easy for tourists. Learning a few local words is always a great way to show appreciation! Here are some essentials to know before your trip:
Hello – Om Swastiastu – pronounced ‘Om Swas-tee-ah-stu.’
Goodbye – Sampai Jumpa – pronounced ‘Sahm-pai Joom-pah.’
Thank You – Suksma – pronounced ‘Sook-suh-mah.’
No Thank You – Sing Suksma – pronounced ‘Sing Sook-suh-mah.’
Currency: Bali’s currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Although many hotels and stores accept cards, I recommend always withdrawing a small amount for miscellaneous things such as paying for taxis and shops. Bali is known for its relatively low costs, so you shouldn’t need to withdraw huge sums of money.
Accomodation: I averaged out £60 per night stay (but you can find cheaper) for private villas with pools and hotels. You can see my Top 10 Bali Stays, which were all under £65 a night and an absolute steal!
Length: Doing a nonstop full loop of Bali takes around nine hours. If you want to see the best of Bali, I recommend spending a minimum of 10-14 days in this haven. I’ve been a few times, the last time being a one-month solo trip, and it still wasn’t enough!
Transportation: Transport, including scooter rentals and short-distance taxis, is reasonably cheap, making it convenient and easy to explore Bali affordably. There are also ferries to nearby islands if you want to hop around during your visit.
Bali is just…WOW. If you’re thinking about it, do it! Credit: Nuttawutnuy (Freepik)
Ubud
Everyone raves about Ubud—and for good reason! Its lush greenery, spiritual vibes, and rich culture make it the perfect place to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature. Whether it’s the Sacred Monkey Forest, stunning rice paddies, or the Instagram-famous Bali Swing, Ubud is a must-stay.
Surrounded by jungle, this vibrant area offers everything from wellness retreats to adrenaline-pumping quad biking, so there’s something for everyone. You won’t find beaches here, but if you’re all about nature, culture, and adventure, Ubud belongs on your itinerary!
The best: Jatiluwih Rice Fields is just 75 minutes away from Ubud
Fun Things To Do In Ubud
Best Excursions!
– Ubud
Areas To Stay In Ubud
Central Ubud. If you want to be in the heart of the action, consider staying in central Ubud. You’ll find a lively town with vibrant markets and cultural attractions. It is also a good base from which to discover landmarks such as the Ubud Palace, with many shops, dining options, and artistic performances within walking distance.
🩵 Recommends: Como Uma Ubud features stylish rooms, a holistic wellness treatment spa, and a restaurant overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley. Alternatively, the Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel is known for its friendly social spaces and offers private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations.
Teggallang. Known for its breathtaking rice terraces, Teggallang offers a more tranquil and scenic setting than central Ubud. This area is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat while still being a short drive from the heart of the action. Tegallang is also home to various art studios and workshops, which is great for visitors wanting to witness local artists at work.
🩵 Recommends: Kanva Ubud is a stunning stay with gorgeous architecture and boujee vibes. It’s close to many fun attractions, including swings and Teggallang rice fields.
Hotel Highlight
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Suara Alam Hotel Ubud was a fantastic, intimate stay and a truly worthy highlight to rave about! I loved the vibes, the food, the staff, the room and the breakfast – a solid 10/10. Plus, it was pretty friendly on the wallet and an absolute winner!
Who & What Is Ubud Best For?
This is your spot if you’re into lush jungles, spiritual vibes, and culture-packed experiences. Perfect for yoga lovers, foodies, nature enthusiasts, mums and daughters, and solo travellers looking to recharge, Ubud has everything from healing retreats to adrenaline-fueled adventures.
No beaches here—just rice terraces, waterfalls, and endless good energy. If that sounds like your vibe, Ubud is calling!
Uluwatu
Perched on Bali’s southern tip, Uluwatu is a tropical dream where towering cliffs meet crystal-clear waters. Famous for its dramatic sunsets, world-class surf, and the iconic Uluwatu Temple, this place is pure paradise. If you’re all about aesthetic vibes, Uluwatu is Instagram gold!
Beach lover? You’re in luck! Uluwatu Beach and Padang Padang are perfect for surfing and soaking up epic coastal views, while Suluban Beach offers a more secluded, chill escape. Uluwatu is a must-visit whether you’re here for waves, beach clubs, or just the views!
Uluwatu Kecak & Fire Show is a must-see in Bali
Things To Do In Uluwatu
Best Excursions!
– Uluwatu
Where To Stay In Uluwatu
Padang Padang Beach Area. Staying in the Padang Padang Beach area is the best option for being close to the action and the beach. Its high waves and scenic surroundings attract those wanting to surf and vibe. It’s also ideal as you will be close to attractions like Uluwatu Temple, which provides an excellent social scene for meeting other travellers.
🩵 Recommends: Stay at Suarga Padang Padang, a stunning resort using recuperated wood and bamboo. It’s eco-friendly and prioritizes recharging and relaxation.
Bingin Beach Area. For a different but similar beach vibe, the Bingin Beach area offers a charming and laid-back atmosphere. Bingin Beach is an excellent choice for those seeking a more secluded and tranquil stay. There are a variety of beach bars and cafes in the area, and the location is cool for meeting other solo travellers and surfing enthusiasts, too.
🩵 Recommends: The Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort offers boujee 5-star service with unforgettable views and memories. Each room has a hot tub, and the resort has a fitness centre and spa.
Hotel Highlight
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Amaka Villas is a gorgeous stay in Uluwatu and really oozed boujee! I loved the vibes of this villa! It has private pools, big spacious rooms, and an outdoor-ish bathroom, which was awesome!
Who & What Is Uluwatu Best For?
Uluwatu is for beach lovers, sunset chasers, and adventure seekers! This is your place if you’re into breathtaking ocean views, epic surf spots, and Insta-worthy cliffside vibes.
Perfect for surfers, couples, families, mums and daughters, and anyone who loves a mix of chill beach days and stylish beach clubs, Uluwatu brings the best of Bali’s coastal paradise. Uluwatu is an absolute must-visit whether you’re here for big waves, hidden beaches, or golden sunsets!
Seminyak
If you’re heading to Bali and love beach vibes, buzzing nightlife, and stylish cafes, Seminyak is the place to be! Think trendy beach clubs, epic sunsets, and endless shopping—all with a laid-back yet luxurious feel.
Whether you’re sipping cocktails at Potato Head Beach Club, hunting for boutique finds, or indulging in Bali’s best brunch spots, Seminyak brings the perfect mix of fun and relaxation. It’s Bali’s fun spot; you’ll definitely want it on your itinerary!
Beach in Seminyak. Credit: Segawa7 (Adobe)
Things To Do In Seminyak
Best Excursions!
– Seminyak
Areas To Stay In Seminyak
Seminyak Beach. Seminyak Beach is a great choice if you’re all about beaches, beach clubs, and sunset cocktails. Plus, the area is full of stylish hotels, boutique shops, and trendy restaurants. It’s perfect for those looking for a mix of relaxation and nightlife!
🩵 Recommends: The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa is the perfect 5-star place to treat yourself; it’s an absolute dream stay!
Eat Street (Jalan Kayu Aya). For a more lively, urban vibe, stay near Eat Street in the heart of Seminyak. This area is packed with cool cafes, fancy boutiques, and Insta-worthy restaurants. It’s perfect for those who want to shop, dine, and explore Bali’s vibrant culture, all while being close to the beach and nightlife.
🩵 Recommends: The Club Villas Seminyak offers a gorgeous stay with a private pool and clean, spacious rooms.
Hotel Highlight
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Danu Villas Bali is an absolute gem, with everything I needed in one space! I especially loved the walk-in swimming pool straight from the bedroom and bathroom—such a dream! The whole vibe and aesthetics were on point, and at under £65 per night, it was an absolute steal!
Who & What Is Seminyak Best For?
Seminyak is for the stylish, the social, and the sunset chasers! This is your spot if you love trendy beach clubs, chic boutiques, and incredible food. Perfect for party lovers, shopaholics, families, and anyone who enjoys the finer things, Seminyak is all about luxury meets laid-back beach vibes.
Spend your days sipping cocktails, shopping in cute boutiques, or catching a golden sunset at La Plancha—this is Bali’s coolest playground! Whether you’re a solo traveller or travelling with your partner or friends, Seminyak is a favourite area for many.
If you want to go on a solo trip but are unsure where to start, the Female Solo Travel Ebook covers everything you need to know for an epic solo adventure!
Sanur
Looking for a chill, beachy escape in Bali? Sanur is the perfect spot! Known for its laid-back vibes, calm beaches, and stunning sunrises, it’s a great place to slow down and soak up island life.
Whether you’re into cycling along the beachfront, sipping cocktails by the sea, or hopping on a boat to nearby islands, Sanur has something for everyone—without the crazy crowds. If you love relaxing with a view, Sanur is the place to be my friend!
Sunrise at Sanur Beach with Mt Agung in the background. Credit: Cn0ra (Adobe)
Things To Do In Sanur
Best Excursions!
– Sanur
Areas To Stay In Sanur
Sanur Beach. If you want a laid-back vibe with easy access to the beach, Sanur Beach is the place! Enjoy beachfront resorts, sunrise walks, and a slower pace of life. It’s perfect for those looking to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the chill side of Bali.
🩵 Recommends: Seascape Luxury Resort & Spa is a gorgeous, new, budget-friendly 5-star resort offering upscale service and boujee vibes!
Bypass Ngurah Rai. For a more central spot that’s close to local shops, restaurants, and transport, stay near Bypass Ngurah Rai. You’ll have the convenience of easy access to other parts of Bali while still being near the beach. It’s a great choice for travellers who want the best of both worlds—local culture and beach access!
🩵 Recommends: Hard Rock Hotel offers so much entertainment and fun within the resort! It’s a great stay with 5-star service – you can’t go wrong here!
Hotel Highlight
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Pink Private Sanur had such a vibe and was covered in pink! It’s very aesthetically pleasing on the eyes and I just loved the whole atmosphere. You can also use the pink bikes to go explore town which was super fun!
Who & What Is Sanur Best For?
Sanur is for the chill-seekers, sunrise lovers, and laid-back travellers! This is your spot if you’re all about calm beaches, easy bike rides, and relaxed vibes. Sanur offers tranquil waters, beachfront cafes, and stunning sunrises, perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to escape the crowds.
No wild parties here—just good food, good views, and good vibes. Sanur is the spot for you if you want a slower, more peaceful side of Bali!
Nusa Dua
If you’re looking for relaxation, luxury, and the ultimate beach escape, Nusa Dua is perfect for you. This spot is perfect for chilling in style with its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and upscale resorts.
Whether you want to sunbathe, try out water sports, or sip cocktails at a beachfront bar, Nusa Dua brings good vibes and tropical life. It’s the laid-back, boujee side of Bali—so if that sounds like your vibe, add it to your itinerary!
Stunning sunset in Nusa Dua
Fun Things To Do In Nusa Dua
Best Excursions!
– Nusa Dua
Areas To Stay In Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua Beach. If you’re looking for luxury resorts, calm beaches, and top-notch amenities, Nusa Dua Beach is perfect! It’s home to high-end hotels, serene beach clubs, and beautiful coastlines—ideal for those who want to unwind in style and enjoy the ultimate beach escape.
🩵 Recommends: Merusaka Nusa Dua is a stunning resort offering upscale spaces and gorgeous amenities.
BTDC Area. The BTDC Area is all about convenience, with quick access to shopping, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Geger Temple. It is perfect for those who want a balance of relaxation and adventure while being close to everything Nusa Dua offers.
🩵 Recommends: Novotel Bali Nusa Dua is a lovely 5-star hotel offering boujee vibes and top-notch services.
Hotel Highlight
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The Nest Hotel Nusa Dua was a sweet and cheap stay in Nusa Dua. They provided yummy food and unreal sunsets from the rooftop pool. I literally spent a few days on this rooftop, as the food, views, and vibes were so good.
Who & What Is Nusa Dua Best For?
Nusa Dua is for luxury lovers, honeymooners, and beach bums who love the finer things in life! If you’re all about five-star resorts, white sandy beaches, and infinity pools with a view, Nusa Dua is your ultimate getaway spot.
Perfect for chilling in style, spa days, and romantic getaways, Nusa Dua is Bali’s ultimate relaxation zone. The vibes? Calm, classy, and effortlessly beautiful—ideal for anyone looking to unwind and soak up paradise!
Kuta
Kuta is the ultimate Bali hotspot for anyone looking to mix beach vibes, nightlife, and endless fun – the city never sleeps! Whether you’re here to catch some waves, shop till you drop, or dance the night away, Kuta has something for everyone.
With its buzzing streets, cool beach clubs, and laid-back but energetic energy, it’s the perfect spot to kick off your Bali adventure as it’s close to the airport. Prepare for non-stop action, chilled vibes, and memories that’ll last a lifetime!
Scenery of Kuta Beach at Badung Regency, southern Bali, Indonesia.
Fun Things To Do In Kuta
Best Excursions
– Kuta
Areas To Stay In Kuta
Kuta Beach. Stay around the Kuta Beach location, which is close to the beach and vibrant nightlife. This location is great for backpackers, solo travellers, and anyone with a high social battery. It’s also close to attractions, making it the ideal location for visitors.
🩵 Recommends: MAMAKA by Ovolo is a 4-star gorgeous urban beachfront resort offering ocean views and vibes.
Legian. The Legian area offers a slightly more relaxed atmosphere close to the bustling Kuta scene. It offers a more balanced relaxation and party atmosphere. It’s known for its beautiful sunsets and is an excellent area for shopping, dining, and enjoying the nightlife.
🩵 Recommends: Bali Mandira Beach Resort & Spa is a spacious boujee resort with a sandy beachfront and infinity pool.
Who & What Is Kuta Best For?
Kuta is for beach bums, party lovers, solo travellers and budget travellers! If you’re all about sun, surf, and non-stop fun, this is the place to be. Known for its lively nightlife, affordable stays, and long sandy beach, Kuta is perfect for backpackers, first-time Bali visitors, and anyone looking to let loose not too far from the airport.
Spend the day surfing, shopping, or chilling by the beach, then hit the bars and clubs for a wild night out. If you love a good time on a budget, Kuta’s got your name all over it!
Gili Islands
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Bali? Head to the Gili Islands for a tropical paradise you won’t forget! Just a short boat ride away, these islands boast crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and snorkelling with sea turtles.
Whether you’re all about the lively vibes on Gili T, seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation on Gili Air, or looking for a peaceful escape on Gili Meno, the Gilies have something for everyone. It’s truly the ultimate paradise. Add the Gillies to your Bali itinerary if this all sounds like a bit of you!
The beautiful Gili Meno Island. Credit: Natalia (Adobe)
Things To Do In The Gili Islands
Best Excursions!
Areas To Stay In The Gili Islands
Gili Trawangan. Known as the party island, Gili T is famous for its vibrant nightlife, beach bars, and snorkelling with sea turtles. This is the place to be if you want to have fun, meet people, and party under the stars.
🩵 Recommends: Kardia Resort Gili is a 4-star eco-friendly boutique hotel with a pristine white sandy beachfront.
Gili Air. Gili Air strikes the perfect balance between relaxed vibes and a little bit of excitement. It has chilled-out beach bars, great dive spots, and a laid-back local culture. It’s perfect if you want a mix of peace and adventure without the heavy party scene.
🩵 Recommends: Pinkcoco Gili Air is an aesthetically pleasing pink-themed boutique hotel offering entertainment and fun vibes!
Gili Meno. Gili Meno is the spot for those who crave a quieter, more serene escape. It’s the smallest and most peaceful island, offering stunning beaches, secluded vibes, and amazing snorkelling with clear waters and sea turtles. It’s perfect for honeymooners or anyone looking to unwind.
🩵 Recommends: Villa Pulau Cinta Boutique Suites offers an UNREAL spacious stay with great services and a private beach.
Hotel Highlight
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Neano Escape is a gorgeous spot that’s just a short distance from the ferry port to the Gili Islands. It’s the perfect place to relax, and its location makes getting to the Gilis super convenient. The food was delicious, and the views? Simply UNREAL.
Who & What Is The Gilli Islands Best For?
The Gili Islands are for beach lovers, backpackers, and adventure seekers! This is your paradise if you’re all about white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and epic snorkelling with sea turtles.
Perfect for laid-back vibes, island hopping, and partying under the stars, the Gilis offer a mix of chill and thrill—whether you want to bike around car-free streets, sip cocktails by the beach, or dive into the underwater world. No stress, just sun, sea, and good vibes!
Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The How To Travel Solo Ebook has tips for planning safe, confident, and unforgettable adventures!
Canggu
Looking for the perfect mix of chill vibes, great food, and beach fun? Canggu is the place to be! This trendy spot on Bali’s southern coast is all about surfing, stunning cafes, and a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere.
Whether you’re here for the Instagrammable sunsets, delicious food spots, soaking in the boho vibe, or making new friends, Canggu has something for everyone. It’s a lively area, perfect for busy, social scenes, with plenty of adventure waiting for you!
Canggu brings colourful vibes
Things To Do In Canggu
Best Excursions!
– Canggu
Areas To Stay In Canggu
Berawa Area. Staying in Berawa puts you close to Berawa Beach, a popular spot for beach lovers and offers a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great location if you want to be close to the action without being in the action. With its proximity to restaurants, beach clubs, and the famous Finns Recreational Club, Berawa provides a dynamic yet relaxed environment.
🩵 Recommends: Swarga Suites is an amazing 5-star beachfront resort with spacious rooms and top-notch services.
Echo Beach Area. For some good vibes, consider staying in the Echo Beach area. This area is known for its seafood restaurants offering a delightful culinary experience. It’s a little more boujee than Canggu town, providing a more upscale stay with sunset views.
🩵 Recommends: Eastin Ashta Resort Canggu is a budget-friendly, lively stay, especially great for solo travellers.
Hotel Highlights
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The Wina Villa is one of my favourite stays! The space was huge, with a gorgeous bed and bathroom, a separate kitchen and dining area, a decent-sized pool, and a chill upstairs lounge. This villa definitely gave me boujee vibes! Plus, for under £65 a night, it was a solid 12/10. (When booking, request their newest villa—it’s the best one!)
Who & What Is Canggu Best For?
Canggu is the ultimate playground for surfers, digital nomads, solo travellers and laid-back beach lovers! This is your spot if you’re into cool cafes, beach clubs, epic sunsets, and a buzzing social scene.
Known for its chill vibes and creative energy, Canggu is the perfect area to stay for those who love surfing by day and partying by night. Whether you’re here to catch waves, sip smoothie bowls, or vibe at beach bars, Canggu is where Bali’s cool crowd hangs!
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That’s A Wrap!
No matter what kind of Bali adventure you’re after, these 8 amazing areas to stay are the best and have got you covered! Whether you’re chasing surf and sunsets in Canggu, luxury in Nusa Dua, culture in Ubud, or beach vibes in Uluwatu, there’s a perfect spot for every traveller.
With so many epic things to do, from exploring waterfalls to partying at beach clubs, Bali is pure magic. So, where will you stay first? Pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Looking for another destination to explore in Southeast Asia? Check out Thailand – Top 10 Places To Have An Epic Time.
