Where in bali to stay 2023
Where in Bali to stay?! Our team partnered with an exclusive digital magazine Voyagers Voice to launch an ultimate Bali travel guide for 2022/2023.
By Amir
Published: Jun 13, 2022 • 8 min read
Yes, can you hear? Bali is shouting your name.
Explore the main parts of Bali starting from here (p. 26), and check out why we love Bali? afterward, come back to see the bucket list activities we suggest you experience in Bali. Also, hotel suggestions with a secret tip on how to save while vacationing.
Bali activities bucket list
Thinking about a trip to Bali? Well, if you won’t experience the things we’re about to list, you can’t really tell people you’ve been there… Sightseeing and lying on the beach are okay, but we’ve prepared a list of activities that will surely make a trip to Bali, like those on Instagram or Pinterest. Just funnier because you’ll be the one experiencing it all!
Here’s what we’ve planned for you:
The Gili Islands are located near the coast of northwest Lombok Island. There are 3 of them - Gili Trawagan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno. Super tiny, but super worth a visit if you have time to explore other islands when in Bali. The easiest way to reach them is by ferry or a speedboat from Lombok island, although you can also get there from Bali or Nusa Lembongan.
🤿 Snorkeling in Gili Trawangan | You’ll see turtles. In one of the most excellent waters near Bali. We could stop here, no more explanation needed. But okay. Gili Trawangan is the biggest of the three islands and one of the best snorkeling areas in Southeast Asia. It offers clear waters, pristine white-sand beaches, and coral reefs. You can snorkel all around the island, but we believe the best place is right off the coast opposite Villa Almarik (Trawangan Slope). It’s richer in marine life, and the chances of seeing turtles (the green sea ones especially) are greater. |
🏊 Gili Meno (the underwater statues!) | The reason is simple: Gili Meno underwater statues or the “Nest.” It’s a project of 48 human-like sculptures standing in a circle. Believed to be the bridge between the human and marine worlds, they’re located on the island’s west side in front of the Bask Resort. |
🧑🍳 Trying a Balinese cooking class | Even though many Asian countries have a unique gastronomic culture, there aren’t many as special as the Balinese one. Colorful, spicy, and full of flavors are only a few words to describe it. Plan a visit to Ubud and take one of the classes. There are a bunch of them, and you’ll only have to pick the one that suits you according to your accommodation and expectations. |
🥾 Hiking Mount Batur | This volcano is located in the Bangli region in Bali and is by no means one of the most spectacular attractions on the island. We could say the views are worth the trouble of climbing, but the fact is that it’s not that challenging. It takes around 2 hours to reach the top and doesn’t require a lot of physical preparation. The sunrise view from the top is why you might want to start your journey early. |
🥾 Hiking at Kawah Ijen in the sunrise | Continuing with volcanoes, Ijen is another must-hike in Bali with its electric blue lava and flames. Yes. We knew you’d agree that it’s one of the must-experiences. It takes around 2 hours to hike, just like with Mount Batur, and we highly recommend climbing this one during the sunrise. After reaching the top, you’ll be able to go a bit lower to see the blue flames from up closer. By the way, this view can only be seen in 2 places worldwide - here and Iceland, so soak in the views! |
🏖 Beach hopping in the southern part of the island | The legend says that the nicest beaches in Bali are in the South of it. Since beaches are one thing that Bali is known for, hopping through a few will guarantee you get the most of it. You’ll find various tours that last for around half a day and include transportation from your accommodation. Nusa Dua is considered the best beach, with Padang Padang in 2nd place. |
| 🔥 Watching a Kecak Fire Dance | Since you’re already in the southern part, there’s no way you can miss the authentic Bali dance. It usually takes place in the afternoon and overlooks the Uluwatu Temple. You’ll be able to enjoy the sunset from the top of the cliff and dive into one of the most authentic Balinese traditions. The dance is based on the Hindu epic Ramayana and is performed by more than a dozen dancers sitting on the ground. The main characteristic of this dance is the “chak, chak, chak” sound. |
| 🥣 Eating an Acai bowl in Canggu | You’ll find these literally on every corner in Canggu. It’s like a signature meal which you don’t want to miss. A few of the best places serving it: La Laguna Bali, The Shady Shack & Bali Bowls, but there are plenty of others. And now let’s admit it - you want to try not only an Acai bowl… Canggu is a paradise for foodies, and you surely won’t leave disappointed. Expect to go international and feel the local vibe in one place: Canggu offers everything from Thai, Italian, and sushis, to Indonesian eats. |
We’ve also prepared 3 lists of the best hotels in Bali for you to know your options. You’ll find one for each category and for all of the main cities we recommend visiting.
Although Bali is known as a wallet-friendly destination to visit, you can make it even cheaper. Try searching for a hotel using the RatePunk browser extension to save yourself from overpaying. Live price comparison shows you prices for the same hotel in all major OTAs, and this way, you are assured you’re getting the best deal. It’s absolutely free of charge and works on Chrome, Safari, Mozilla, Opera & Edge.
Best budget hotels in Bali
KUTA
$7 for a hotel that looks like this? Yes, please!
The hotel is located a 5-minute drive from Kuta Beach. The rooms have a terrace with a seating area featuring views of the swimming pool and garden.
Pondok Anyar Inn
Indonesia, Kuta
About
⚡ This property is a 4-minute walk from the beach. Showcasing an outdoor pool and sun terrace, Pondok Anyar Hotel is located in Kuta, just 27.4 km from Ubud. Free WiFi is featured throughout the property and free private parking is available on site.
⚡ Every room at this guesthouse is air-conditioned and is equipped with a flat-screen TV. Certain units have a sitting area where you can relax. Certain rooms include views of the pool or garden. All rooms are equipped with a private bathroom.
⚡ The guesthouse also provides bike rental and car rental. Seminyak is 4 km from Pondok Anyar Hotel, and Nusa Dua is 9.7 km away. The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport, 1 km from Pondok Anyar Hotel.
Amenities
Free Wi-Fi | Free breakfast | Free parking | 2 swimming pools | Air-conditioned | Room service | Airport shuttle
UBUD
The hotel is situated within the Taman district in Ubud. Enjoy incredible views while swimming in the pool right next to your room.
Galang Hari Villa
Indonesia, Ubud
About
⚡ Set within the Taman district in Ubud, Suite Galang Hari villa has air conditioning, a balcony, and garden views. The property also has 1 bathroom featuring a shower and slippers, and towels and bed linen are at guests' disposal.
⚡ Continental and à la carte breakfast options are available every morning at the bed and breakfast. Galang Hari offers a terrace. Guests can swim in the indoor pool, go cycling or relax in the garden.
⚡ Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Sari Organik, Naughty Nuri's Ubud, and Mozaic Restaurant. The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International, 30 km from Galang Hari villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Amenities
Swimming pool | Airport shuttle | Spa & wellness center | Room service
LEGIAN
Located in the heart of bustling Legian Hotel, the hotel reflects a young & energetic lifestyle. And is friendly for the youth budget.
J4 Hotels Legian
Indonesia, Legian
About
⚡ A 10-minute walk from bustling Kuta Beach, this laid-back hotel is also a 10-minute walk from Beachwalk Shopping Center and 4 km from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
⚡ Relaxed rooms feature Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and safes, as well as minifridges, and tea and coffee making facilities. Upgraded rooms add balconies and/or living areas. Room service is available 24/7.
⚡ A rooftop terrace offers a bar/restaurant and an outdoor pool. Other amenities include a spa, an airy lobby lounge, and a business center, plus meeting and event space. Breakfast and parking are available.
Amenities
Free Wi-Fi | Breakfast | Free parking | 2 swimming pools | Air-conditioned | Laundry service | Airport shuttle | Spa | Restaurant | Family rooms
GILI
The hotel is located a 1 minute's walk from the beach and offers private pools for this price. Private pools. Crazy, we know.
La Bella - Hotel Villa & Spa
Indonesia, Gili
About
⚡ This La Bella - Hotel Villa & Spa features 10 rooms as well as quick access to Trawangan Night Market Seafood Restaurant. Featuring a seawater pool, a golf course, and a sunbathing terrace, this villa lies in proximity to Gili Trawangan Island.
⚡ This Gili Trawangan villa is located a 25-minute walk from Sunset Point Beach and 25 minutes walk away from Gili Islands. This property is located just a 10-minute walk from a sandy beach. Guests will find the café Hellocapitano Lifestyle Cafe within a 5-minute walk. Lombok International airport is placed within a 65-km distance of this villa.
⚡ Offering views of the garden, rooms come with satellite television, coffee/tea making machines, and a mini-fridge bar, also La Bella - Hotel Villa & Spa has a private balcony. The air-conditioned rooms come with marble floors. Providing guests with showers, a bidet, and a bathtub, an en suite bathroom features a shower, bath sheets, and toiletries.
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Airport shuttle | Free WiFi | Beachfront | Non-smoking rooms | Restaurant | Family rooms
SEMINYAK
This is a 4-star hotel. In the budget column. It offers an outdoor pool and breathtaking views from the terrace. It’s located 1.1 km from Batu Belig Beach, which is a perfect distance for a walk.
The Capital Hotel and Resort Seminyak
Indonesia, Seminyak
About
⚡ This property is an 18-minute walk from the beach. Featuring a fitness center, terrace, and views of the garden, The Capital Hotel, and Resort Seminyak - CHSE Certified is located in Seminyak, a 14-minute walk from Batu Belig Beach. Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, the 4-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom.
⚡ The Capital Hotel and Resort offers a continental or à la carte breakfast.
⚡ Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Petitenget Beach, Seminyak Beach, and Petitenget Temple. The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International, 11.3 km from The Capital Hotel and Resort Seminyak - CHSE Certified, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Airport shuttle | Non-smoking rooms | Spa | Family rooms | Fitness center | Free WiFi | Breakfast
Best mid-class hotels in Bali
KUTA
Mid-class means 5-stars in Bali, apparently. Ocean views, modern rooms, professional service - that’s only a few things the hotel has to offer. It's THE option for the ones seeking luxury. For this price, everyone’s seeking luxury, I think.
The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali
Indonesia, Kuta
About
⚡ Set along Jerman Beach, this sophisticated resort is 7 minutes away on foot from the Waterbom Bali water park, and 2 km from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
⚡ Offering balconies or terraces, the upscale rooms feature minibars, Wi-Fi and flat-screens, as well as tea and coffeemakers; some have direct pool access. Suites add living areas; some have beach views. Upgraded suites come with plunge pools, and a 2-bedroom villa provides butler service, a kitchen and a pool. Room service is offered.
⚡ There are 2 restaurants, 2 bars and 8 pools, as well as a spa, a gym and a private beach. There's also a kids' club. Breakfast is available.
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Airport shuttle | Non-smoking rooms | Spa | Restaurant | Family rooms | Room service | Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms | Bar | Breakfast | Beachfront | Private beach area
UBUD
A 4-star hotel with an outdoor pool & continental breakfast. It’s situated close to the heart of Ubud. Their Wi-Fi is known to be one of the best in Bali.
Korurua Villa
Indonesia, Ubud
About
⚡ Korurua Dijiwa Ubud is located in culturally rich in the spiritual heartland, close to the heart of Ubud center, at Banjar Junjungan – just 3 kilometers drive from the center of Ubud.
⚡ Korurua Dijiwa Ubud is a family-owned retreat home uniquely designed to capture the beauty of surrounding nature, with a blend of Bali’s rich culture and yet a divine individual touch for the creation of an ambiance full of tranquility and serenity.
⚡ Comprising individually designed suites and wooden houses, entwining the contemporary simplicity art design with an added spark of Balinese touch, it makes us entirely residential in feeling with the atmosphere of a rural hillside home. Surrounded by the lush green nature, the result is a fresh and original retreat home for resting and reconnecting with one’s self and becoming one in nature’s perfect harmony.
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Airport shuttle | Non-smoking rooms | Spa | Restaurant | Family rooms | Room service | Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms | Bar | Very Good Breakfast
LEGIAN
Located 700 m from the beach, the hotel offers a private pool with a sun deck and romantic night light. The place is rated highly, guaranteeing transportation won’t be a problem. You can order various spa procedures to get the whole experience.
Abia Villa Legian
Indonesia, Legian
About
⚡ Abia Villas Legian is a stylish complex of just 15 luxury villas designed to bring elegance to one of Bali's favorite tourism districts. The property is the epitome of tropical sophistication where modern travelers can enjoy a carefree break along with all the privileges of island living. This collection of private villas takes contemporary Balinese design to the next level through original works of local artistry and particular attention to detail.
⚡ Hospitality at Abia Villas Legian is warm and personalized with all needs taken care of before they are even recognized. Abia Villas Legian is a boutique haven that perfectly suits the privacy needs of honeymoon couples celebrating their love. Family travelers will also appreciate the home comforts of this smart property as well as its relative proximity to the Legian's famed sunset beach.
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Airport shuttle | Non-smoking rooms | Spa | Restaurant | Family rooms | Room service | Bar
GILI
Yet another 5-star hotel striking the list. Located on the shores of the Bali Sea, the hotel offers complimentary breakfast and loaner bikes. You’ll find plenty of things to see and do in this upscale 2-hectare resort.
Jambuluwuk Oceano Resort
Indonesia, Gili
About
⚡ This upscale 2-hectare resort on the shores of the Bali Sea is 2 km from both the Trawangan night market and from Gili Trawangan ferry terminal.
⚡ Occupying villas, some with traditional thatched roofs, the chic rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, terraces, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Upgraded rooms add minifridges. Beachfront suites come with sitting areas. Room service is offered 24/7.
⚡ Breakfast and loaner bikes are complimentary. Other amenities include a beachfront bar/restaurant, and an outdoor pool with a swim-up bar, plus a beach and a playground.
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Airport shuttle | Free WiFi | Beachfront | Non-smoking rooms | Restaurant | Family rooms | Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms | Bar | Good Breakfast
SEMINYAK
A luxury 5-star hotel is a 10-minute walk from Seminyak Beach and 3 km from Jalan Legian. Decorated with traditional Japanese art, the villas include private outdoor pools, poolside sundecks, and gazebos. The breakfast is complimentary.
The Seiryu Boutique Villas
Indonesia, Seminyak
About
⚡ This luxury hotel set on a narrow street is a 10-minute walk from Seminyak Beach and 3 km from Jalan Legian, a vibrant area with bars and street stalls. It’s 9 km from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
⚡ Decorated with traditional Japanese art, the refined villas come with private outdoor pools, poolside sundecks, and gazebos with day beds and drapes, as well as kitchens, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi. Butler service is provided.
⚡ In-room breakfast is available, as are airport transfers, and shuttles within the Legian and Seminyak areas. Bike rentals are on offer.
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Airport shuttle | Non-smoking rooms | Spa | Room service | Free parking | Free WiFi
Best high-end hotels in Bali
KUTA
A 5-star hotel, obviously. Located across the lively Legian beach, the hotel amenities include en suite marble bathrooms with rainfall showers. You can enjoy spa procedures & get an amazing breakfast at the buffet.
The Stones Hotel
Indonesia, Kuta
About
⚡ Across from the lively Legian beach, this upscale, contemporary hotel is 3 km from bars in vibrant Seminyak.
⚡ Sleek rooms have en suite marble bathrooms with rainfall showers. All have free Wi-Fi, minifridges, and tea and coffeemaker, plus flat screens. Upgraded rooms and suites add pool views, and/or balconies with soaking tubs.
⚡ A breakfast buffet is available (fee), and there are 2 sophisticated restaurants, including a seafood option. Other amenities consist of a spa, and a lavish pool area with a bar, plus 6 event rooms including an airy ballroom with modern chandeliers. There's a 24-hour fitness center and a colorful kids' club.
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Airport shuttle | Non-smoking rooms | Spa | Restaurant | Room service | Fitness center | Bar | Wonderful Breakfast
UBUD
A 5-star adults-only hotel is an 8-minute walk from the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and a kilometer from Ubud Palace. Breakfast is complimentary. It also offers an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a spa, and lush gardens.
Royal Kamuela
Indonesia, Ubud
About
⚡ This upmarket adults-only hotel is an 8-minute walk from the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and a kilometer from Ubud Palace.
⚡ Ranging from suites to 1-bedroom villas, the polished quarters feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minifridges, plus sitting areas, and tea and coffee making facilities. Some offer direct pool access, butler service, balconies, and/or pull-out sofas.
⚡ Breakfast is complimentary. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a gym, plus a spa, a restaurant, and lush gardens. Children age 17 and over are welcome.
Amenities
Airport shuttle | Non-smoking rooms | Spa | Restaurant | Room service | Fitness center | Bar
LEGIAN
Guess what? 5-star hotel? Exactly. This property is located on the beachfront, 8 minute walk from the beach. The villas offer pool views and terraces.
Royal Suites at The Bandha
Indonesia, Kuta
About
⚡ This property is an 8-minute walk from the beach. With pool views, Royal Suites at The Bandha is located in Legian and has a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, bar, garden, outdoor pool, and terrace. Both WiFi and private parking are available at the villa free of charge.
⚡ For a well-deserved break or a romantic honeymoon that is nothing less than pure perfection, take delight in your own private rooftop retreat. Elevated high above Bali’s vibrant Legian tourism district just footsteps from a long stretch of sunset beach, a Royal Suites at The Bandha promises the ultimate in island indulgence.
⚡ From spending quality time enjoying floating breakfast by your personal pool to relishing in the air-conditioned comfort of a sophisticated living room, this is what Balinese luxury is really all about. Every possible need has been anticipated to ensure that your stay in a Royal Suite at The Bandha is an experience like no other.
Amenities
3 swimming pools | Airport shuttle | Non-smoking rooms | Spa and wellness center | Restaurant | Family rooms | Room service | Bar | Beachfront
GILI
Located a 2-minute walk from the beach, this 5-star hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, and a shared lounge. The villas offer private pools.
Ningaloo Villa
Indonesia, Gili
About
⚡ On the main street of a remote coastal village, this casual, family-run resort is a 1-minute walk from Ningaloo Reef Dive and a 3-minute walk from the beach.
⚡ There's a lodge, plus simple cabins and 1- to 4-bedroom houses, all with living areas, patios, and kitchenettes or full kitchens. Cabins have shared bathrooms; the lodge and houses add private bathrooms and TVs. Some feature bunk beds. Minimum stay rules may apply, and campsites are also available.
⚡ Amenities include an outdoor pool, a playground, and tennis courts, as well as BBQ and fish cleaning areas. The resort offers local diving, snorkeling, and whale-watching tours (fees apply).
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Airport shuttle (free) | Free WiFi | Non-smoking rooms | Family rooms | Air conditioning
SEMINYAK
This 5-star upscale hotel is located on Seminyak Beach on the Indian Ocean. It’s also 5 km away from the lively Legian Road. It includes free yoga classes, a bar on the beach, plus 5 infinity pools, and a spa. A vacation you’re not going to forget.
Alila Seminyak
Indonesia, Seminyak
About
⚡ This modern, upscale resort set on Seminyak Beach on the Indian Ocean is 5 km from the lively Legian Road.
⚡ Chic rooms offer minibars, tea & coffeemakers, plus flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms add terraces. Suites come with living areas. Upgraded suites have living rooms and ocean views. A 3-bedroom penthouse features a kitchen, a dining/living room, and a terrace with a private pool. Room service is available 24 hours.
⚡ Yoga classes are free. Breakfast (surcharge) is served in a polished open-air restaurant. Other amenities include a cafe and a relaxed bar on the beach, plus 5 infinity pools, a spa, and a gym.
Amenities
1 swimming pool | Non-smoking rooms | Spa and wellness center | Restaurant | Room service | Fitness center | Free parking | Bar | Good breakfast | Beachfront
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