Known as ‘the Island of the Gods’, Bali sees thousands of tourists flocking to its shores every year. Choosing the best area to stay in Bali is crucial as its attractions are endless and diverse. Attractions include ancient temples, majestic rice terraces and vast beaches.
While Bali does guarantee rich cultural experiences in Ubud, Uluwatu and Jimbaran, Kuta and Legian offer something quite different. Sleepless streets dominate the night scene as night owls frequent bars and nightclubs. While Kuta is busy, its hotels offer solace from outside activity. Just outside of central Kuta, visitors will find Bali’s party capital, Jalan Legian. Those feeling overwhelmed by crowds of people and traffic can escape to Seminyak, Bali’s most stylish and upscale resort area.
Ubud is Bali’s cultural hub and flooded with lush rice fields. Canguu also offers a rich cultural experience and is the best place to stay for families and adults wishing to take a break from Bali’s hustle and bustle. Home to a landmark temple, Uluwatu is best suited for adults seeking a peaceful getaway. The isolated Jimbaran also boasts luxurious beachfront resorts, many of which are self-contained, so that guests don’t have to venture far and wide to find what they’re looking for.
Spoil yourself at one of the many 5 star resorts in Nusa Dua, relax on the calm beaches of Sanur. Travel to the islands off Bali, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida where the snorkelling is a must. Make sure you enjoy the diving pleasures in Amed and the close up view of Mt Agung.
Whether it's the beaches dotted with bars and cafes or the exclusive boutiques and fine-dining restaurants that draw visitors to Seminyak, they can be assured that this beach resort area, while being just fifteen minutes away from its crowded cousin, is worlds away from Kuta in terms of nightlife and crowds.
Nightlife is nevertheless prevalent in Seminyak but significantly different to that of Kuta. Instead of nightclubs, Seminyak is famous for its beach bars and cafes. Surfers are also seen flocking to its sandy shores– the coastline makes for good surfing conditions. Seminyak is 5km from Ngurah Rai International Airport, making it a convenient (and obligatory) stop-over.
The upmarket town spoils visitors for choice with its many hotels, villas and spas. Ranging from three-star to world-class accommodation, Seminyak is the best place to stay for people of all ages and budgets. Lush tropical gardens, swimming pools, and exquisite dining options offer a quiet escape from the energy radiating from outside hotel walls. With hotels also offering daily activities and child-minding services, Seminyak is especially ideal for families with children.
1- The Legian Seminyak. The Legian Seminyak in Bali is a luxurious all-suite hotel surrounded by tropical gardens and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It boasts 66 sea-facing suites and The Beach House, providing a variety of exquisite accommodation options. The hotel is located in a quiet enclave in Seminyak, adjacent to The Club by The Legian, which offers guests ultimate privacy and personalized service. The Club redefines luxury living in the tropics with scented gardens and private pools. The hotel promises to offer Balinese hospitality with its customized spa treatments, personable service, and charming surroundings. It's a perfect place to experience the magic of Bali in a relaxed setting.
2- Annora Villas Seminyak. Annora is a Sanskrit word meaning light and the hotel embodies this meaning by providing excellent service that enlightens the guests' stay. The hotel puts the guests' happiness above all else and fine-tunes their services to cater to their preferences. The hotel is ideal for beach lovers, located just a few steps away from a honey-sand beach, and provides a secluded and self-contained environment away from the crowded streets of Seminyak. The villas at Annora feature traditional elements, including a private pool and beautifully landscaped gardens, with classic outdoor terraces and interior designs that seamlessly blend together. The staff provides personalized service that goes above and beyond to satisfy the guests' needs, making Annora a standout among other villas.
Ubud
(Honeymoon, A Week, Couples, Family, Nature)
The epicentre of Bali's arts and culture, Ubud presents a stark contrast from most of Bali's popular towns that bustle with nightlife and beach activities. Ubud radiates positive energy and is known to attract artists, naturalists and humble travellers.
Ubud lies in the highlands of Bali and is most well-known for its green rice fields that blanket much of the town. Other than visiting the fascinating Hindu temples, meeting with holistic medicine practitioners or watching Balinese dance performances, Ubud's monkey forest never fails to amaze – watch out for your belongings, though! The monkeys are known to pickpocket.
Accommodation ranging from three-star cottages to five-star villas are found in the heart of Ubud, placing the Ubud Art Market and Monkey Forest only a few minutes away on foot. Spacious Balinese-inspired rooms offer views of surrounding greenery and are usually equipped with private balconies. Most lodgings have swimming pools, restaurants and fitness centres. Far removed from the parties and crowds of Kuta, Ubud has been an attractive option for families, and especially couples. While children can be kept busy, Ubud ultimately remains the most popular destination amongst adults and couples.
1- Sabana Ubud. Sabana Ubud is a luxurious hotel that promises to offer guests a personalized and unforgettable stay. The hotel boasts beautiful, comfortable rooms with top-notch facilities that were established in 2019. The hotel's in-house tours to the rice paddies, laundry services, scooter rentals, catering breakfast and afternoon tea, and free shuttle to Ubud Center are just a few of the services that make guests feel pampered and taken care of. The staff at Sabana Ubud provides phenomenal hospitality with personalized service that includes calling guests by their names and engaging in genuine conversations. Sabana Ubud is the perfect choice for those seeking a personalized touch throughout their stay in Ubud/Bali while enjoying full rest and exploration of the city.
2- Ubud Valley Boutique Resort. Discover a hotel you'll never forget with spectacular accommodations that offer stunning views of the jungle. This hotel is perfect for honeymooners and nature lovers alike, with spacious rooms designed like mini villas, featuring private infinity pools that overlook the lush scenery. Wake up to the sound and sights of the wild each morning with the floor-to-ceiling glass in the bedroom.
Canggu
(Honeymoon, Family, Surfing)
Canguu is a small beach village twenty minutes from Seminyak. Colourful beach bars, prime surfing conditions and wholefood cafes attract hipsters and beach-lovers from all around the world. The green rice fields beautifully contrast the black volcanic beaches which, while not being ideal for days lazing on the beach, make for challenging surfing sessions. The beaches in this region are also less polluted than those of Kuta and Seminyak, and the water is clean.
Canggu's unspoiled beauty acts as a backdrop for the island's attractions which include great dining locales and shops. Budget to mid-range restaurants serve both local and western food. Canggu's three main beaches are untouched by hawkers, other than friendly locals selling ice cream, pineapples and coconuts. Just north of Canggu, perched on a rocky outcrop is the Hindu Temple of Tanah Lot where beautiful sunsets are admired.
The Instagram-friendly scenery of Canguu offers a rich cultural experience and is the best place to stay for families and young adults wishing to take a break from the bright lights of Seminyak. While small hotels and bungalows are common forms of accommodation in the region, private villas are the most popular.
1- Desa Hay Canggu. Desa Hay is a boutique resort consisting of 6 villas located in the south of Bali, Indonesia. The resort was designed to reflect the beauty of Bali and its people and is situated in harmony with the surrounding nature while being respectful to the local community. The villas boast a combination of traditional Indonesian architecture with modern touches, featuring luxury accommodations that are nestled within lush jungle gardens. The villas are equipped with semi-outdoor bathrooms and intricate details throughout. Guests can indulge in a serene and tranquil environment while enjoying the beauty of the natural surroundings.
2- Amar Boutique Hotel. AMAR is a charming family-owned Beach Boutique Hotel situated in the serene Pererenan neighborhood, in Canggu, Bali. The hotel is a true reflection of the Indonesian culture, inspired by the local landscapes and constructed with passion and care. The intricate details in each room are done by Balinese craftsman’s, utilizing natural Indonesian materials. The hotel offers a stunning view of Echo Beach, a popular surf spot in Canggu, as well as the picturesque rice fields, with Bali's famous Agung and Batur volcanoes framing the north. The hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere, which promises to leave guests feeling connected with Bali's essence.
Kuta
(Nightlife, Surfing, Family, Solo Travellers)
Just fifteen minutes away from the Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) International Airport lies Kuta, a town where nightlife is rife, and traffic forever congested with endless sights of scooters and taxis. Restaurants and fast food locales are scattered along the main street of Jalan Pantai Kuta along with countless shops and currency exchange booths. Waterbom is a popular water park that can also be found on this road.
When Jalan Pantai's restaurants and vendors call it a night, visitors can wander down the narrow alley that is Poppies Lane, towards Jalan Legian, Kuta's party strip. Poppies lane is dotted with local vendors, internet cafes, bars and anything else you could need, scattered between traditional architecture, local homes and backpackers.
The best place to stay is along Kuta beach. Accommodation along the main road mainly comprise of five-star hotels. Closer to Legian, cottages and three to four-star hotels become available. Most are self-contained, however, featuring multiple pools, daily activities and excellent staff. Kuta is best suited for adults who enjoy nightlife and don't mind sleepless streets. However, hotels do offer solace from the street noise, with families with children scattered throughout Kuta.
1- Amnaya Resort Kuta. Amnaya Resort Kuta is a luxurious family-oriented hotel located in a quiet laneway that runs off Jalan Kartika Plaza in Bali. With a blend of modern-ethnic design and natural elements, the resort offers 116 spacious guest rooms, all crafted for comfort. Its strategic location is within walking distance to a lively stretch of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as Bali's famous Kuta beach. Guests can enjoy body, mind, and spirit rejuvenation at Bhava Spa or indulge in flavourful cuisine at Sukun Restaurant. The resort is committed to providing a genuine and caring approach to hospitality and creating enriching experiences that leave a lasting impression.
2- Lokal Bali Hostel. Located in the heart of Kuta, LOKAL BALI HOSTEL is a unique and inviting hostel that offers a rustic charm like no other in the area. With a warm and comfortable atmosphere, LOKAL BALI HOSTEL provides a welcoming and safe environment that meets the expectations of all tourists. The friendly and attentive staff are dedicated to fulfilling your every need during your stay. The hostel's super-convenient location is perfect for exploring the many cultural heritages, surf spots, department stores, restaurants, and clubs that Kuta has to offer. LOKAL BALI HOSTEL is not just a place to sleep, it's a place to live. Let us be your home away from home as you discover all that Kuta has to offer.
Legian
(Nightlife, Singles, Family)
Translating to ‘sweet' in Balinese, Legian promises rich Bali experiences. Beyond its famous bars, sand and surf, Legian offers a variety of attractions, all within easy reach of each other. Away from the beach streets, the main Jalan Legian route boasts rows of art shops and restaurants, while Kuta's recreational and shopping highlights are just minutes away.
Legian is the place to stay to experience the hub of Bali's nightlife. The nightlife in Legian is famously lively, and there is certainly no shortage of choice when it comes to partying and beach bars. Another popular attraction is the white sandy beach filled with young millennials soaking up Balinese island fun.
Legian is best suited for young adults seeking great nightlife in the liveliest part of the island. However, there are many four- and five-star hotels, mostly elegant boutique resorts that provide a convenient base to get away from the hustle and bustle and explore the surrounding Kuta and Seminyak. There are some mid-range and low-cost options available as well. Although not a cultural destination, there are surrounding attractions that both families and thrill-seekers will enjoy.
1- The Bandha Hotel & Suites. The Bandha Hotel & Suites is a luxurious beachfront hotel located in the heart of Legian, Bali. With its convenient location, guests can enjoy easy access to nearby shops, bars, restaurants and the stunning Kuta and Legian beaches. The hotel features a modern and elegant Balinese-inspired design, with a beautiful centerpiece in the lobby. The Bandha Hotel & Suites offers personalized and friendly service from its staff, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for couples and honeymooners. This stylish boutique resort concept is dedicated to indulging the mind, body and soul, providing guests with a chic and luxurious lifestyle. Come and experience the highest level of service and luxury at The Bandha Hotel & Suites.
2- Bali Niksoma Boutique Beach Resort. Bali Niksoma Boutique Beach Resort is a modern 4-star hotel located on the Legian Beach with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The boutique concept of the hotel is chic and stylish, providing a luxurious stay for its guests. Only a 15-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, the hotel is conveniently located near gourmet restaurants, nightclubs, and bars in the popular Kuta and Seminyak area. Guests can relax on the white sandy beach, go surfing, or take a dip in the swimming pool that also features a kid's pool. The hotel's amenities include an onsite restaurant called Hitana, laundry, dry cleaning, car parking, and a tour desk for guests to explore Bali.
Uluwatu
(Honeymoon, Surfing, Young Adults)
Uluwatu is a popular destination in Bali thanks to the limestone hills that tower around the region boasting Bali's most beautiful luxury villas and resorts. It is also home to the landmark cliff-top temple, the Uluwatu temple. The cliffs overlook the Indian Ocean and play host to hidden beaches with world-class surf breaks attracting serious surfers from around the world.
Uluwatu is the best place to stay if getting away from the crowds in the South of Bali such as Legian and Seminyak is the order of the day. Uluwatu's exotic location creates an idyllic setting for resorts and restaurants and offers a unique combination of luxury and casual surfing lifestyles. The region provides solitude and relaxation and can also be frequented as part of a day excursion, being only an hour away from Bali's busier attractions.
Uluwatu is best suited for adults seeking a peaceful getaway. In addition to five-star resorts and villas, Uluwatu offers accommodation to suit all budgets, including retreats, guesthouses and smaller hotels. Along with surfers and older crowds, groups of young adults flock to Uluwatu's exotic shores for the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation.
1- Bulgari Resort Bali. Bulgari Resort Bali is a luxurious destination for guests seeking privacy and sophistication. The resort combines the stunning natural beauty of Bali with a contemporary Italian design, offering unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean from its elevated position. With 59 villas, 5 mansions, and exclusive facilities including Italian and Indonesian restaurants, a lounge bar, a cliff-edge pool, and a spa offering Balinese, Asian, and European therapies, guests are treated to an unforgettable experience. A Balinese antiques store and business and conference facilities, as well as a magnificent Bulgari Chapel and an impressive Hindu Temple, complete the resort’s features. Bulgari Resort Bali is the ultimate destination for sophisticated and discerning travelers.
2- The Elementum. The Elementum is a boutique hotel in Bali located just 5 minutes from Bingin Beach. Ideal for couples and honeymooners, it offers 8 private rooms and 1 suite, each with a large bed overlooking the pool or sea. Every room also features a day bed for relaxation. Mensa Asian Bistro + Bar serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers a variety of homemade cocktails and mocktails inspired by the local area. The hotel also features The Elementum Spa, perfect for couples massages. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a relaxing stay near the beach, The Elementum offers the perfect escape.
Jimbaran
(Couples, Family)
Jimbaran is a fishing village south of Kuta. Boasting a vast scenic beach with calm waters, the village is lined with seafood restaurants and backed by tropical greenery and rocky outcrops. Nearby beaches adorned with coconut palm groves and with strong surf waves make Jimbaran yet another one of Bali's surfing hotspots. Ancient sea temples perched upon cliffs make for pristine sunset viewing and invites visitors to experience raw Balinese splendour.
Jimbaran offers an eclectic shopping scene with fashion boutiques and speciality stores lining its streets. A blend of cosmopolitan and local life is enjoyed with the traditional market in the heart of the village and fine-dining spots. Jimbaran Beach is also home to some of Bali's most luxurious hotels, most having direct beachfront access. These include resorts and spas, most of which are self-contained.
The scenic Jimbaran is somewhat isolated, with venues widely scattered. For that reason, in addition to there not being much to do outside resort walls, Jimbaran is the best place to stay for couples and young adults wanting to get away from it all.
1- Bali Bobo Hostel. This hostel is a backpacker's paradise, perfect for those who want to meet new people and have a good time. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful, making it feel like a big family. The owner, Ralf, goes above and beyond to make sure his guests have a great time, even cooking breakfast for them on Saturday mornings. The rooms and bathrooms are modern and clean, and there are plenty of amenities, including a pool, gym, and a well-equipped kitchen. Located in a great area, the hostel is close to restaurants and beaches, with the staff always happy to help guests find the best places to visit.
2- Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay. The Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay is a luxurious, all-villa beach retreat that immerses guests in Balinese culture. The contemporary pool villas are decorated with authentic artworks, textiles, and hand-crafted furniture, and guests can enjoy a range of water activities and surfing with TropicSurf. The resort offers cultural experiences such as artist workshops and a tour of the historic temple with a high priest. The Healing Village Spa offers traditional and innovative therapies, and the Jala Cooking Academy teaches expert skills. Guests can dine at chic Sundara, Alu, or the new Taman Wantilan restaurant, and enjoy complimentary on-site activities including yoga, non-motorized water sports, Balinese dance performances, and Kids Club program.
Nusa Dua
(Honeymoon, Family, Couples)
Nusa Dua is the where you will find the majority of the 5 star resorts. Here you will find all the high end hotel chains with a few cheaper options scattered throughout the area. It is about 20 minutes from the Ngurah Rai airport, via the new tollway.
Once you are through the security check at the entrance of the exclusive resort area, you will find neatly manicured gardens where the resorts are nestled amongst the palm trees, many of these resorts are situated along the beaches. There is a small shopping centre where you can buy souvenirs and there are a few restaurants located in the area.
Water sports are available, there is the National Golf club. If you are travelling as a family then take the kids to Pirate Bay where they climb the pirate ship or tree house, whilst parents relax in the huts on the beach.
1- The St. Regis Bali Resort. The St. Regis Bali Resort offers a luxurious and culturally rich experience for guests with its blend of early 1900s landscape architecture, interior design featuring imported fabrics and cultural artifacts, and a stunning beachfront location on Nusa Dua's finest beach. The resort boasts 80 suites, 42 villas, and 2 residences, each elegantly decorated to provide guests with an authentic Balinese experience. Guests can enjoy a range of activities and amenities, including dining at the resort's restaurants, relaxing at the Remède Spa, or exploring Bali's natural beauty. Whether for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, The St. Regis Bali Resort provides an unforgettable retreat.
2- The Apurva Kempinski Bali. The Apurva Kempinski Bali is a luxurious five-star hotel standing atop the cliff of Nusa Dua, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and tropical garden. The hotel features 475 iconic rooms, suites, and villas, with 60% of them featuring their own private plunge pools. The hotel boasts a unique culinary journey, indigenous spa treatments, spacious meeting rooms, and alluring chapels. The Apurva Kempinski Bali is a majestic open-air theatre that embodies Indonesian elegance and offers curated experiences that are brought to life. Discover more about their story and inspirations on their website and check out their guide to the perfect holiday wardrobe.
Sanur
(Family, Relaxation)
Sanur is about a 25 minute drive from the Ngurah Rai airport, it is a nice relaxing part of Bali. There are many types of hotels in this area to suit any budget, from 5 star resorts to small family run hotels and homestays. It is a quieter part of Bali, where you will find families and middle aged people with a large majority being Europeans.
The beaches are clean and safe to swim as there are only small waves. You will see many of the colourful traditional fishing boats lined along the shoreline. In the distance across the Bali Sea is the small island Nusa Lembongan.
There are many restaurants and small shops scattered along the beach path which extends from one end of Sanur to the other, this is great if you want to hire a pushbike to get around safely. Be warned though the shopkeepers can be very persuasive.
1- Tandjung Sari Hotel. Tandjung Sari is a boutique hotel in Bali that opened in 1962 and was developed as an extension of the family home of the Indonesian proprietor, Wija Wawo-Runtu. With its low-rise complex and rambling pathways, the hotel aims to generate a relaxed and leisurely atmosphere. The hotel features a collection of rare Balinese and Dutch colonial artifacts, showcasing its rich cultural heritage. Originally catering to a privileged clientele, Tandjung Sari was Bali's first boutique property to be managed as a small family business. The hotel has been operational for nearly half a century, offering a unique and eclectic experience.
2- Pondok Ayu. Pondok Ayu is a small boutique hotel located in Sanur, Bali, providing personalized services by friendly staff. It has won consecutive TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards for six years and has been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, it offers a peaceful setting for guests. The hotel can be booked on a room-by-room basis or the entire hotel can be booked for a family or group vacation. Sanur is in a strategic location, with easy access to various destinations such as Kuta, Legian, Nusa Dua, and Denpasar. Visitors are sure to fall in love with Pondok Ayu and its serene atmosphere.
Nusa Lembongan
(Honeymoon, Relaxation, Snorkelling)
Nusa Lembongan is a small island about 12 kms across the Bali Sea from Sanur, there are fast boats that leave from Sanur and Serangan Island for most of the day, or until the swell picks up. To get around you can either walk or hire a motorbike, there is no traffic apart from a few little covered trucks that will pick you up and take you to different restaurants, which is always fun.
There are many places to stay on the island, some nestled on the hills or along the beachfront and coves, most with wonderful views of Mt Agung (weather permitting) and the ocean with Bali in the distance.
There are seaweed farms that you can visit, or you can take a stroll across the suspension bridge to Ceningan Island. There are water sports, for example, banana boat rides or just snorkelling in the different bays. There are a few little shops scattered around for you to acquire any needed supplies.
1- Ocean Paradise Cottage. This charming hotel offers a breathtaking view and exceptional service. Guests will love the spacious rooms and spotless bathrooms with great water pressure. The air conditioning works perfectly, and there's even a TV in the room for entertainment. The staff goes above and beyond to make guests feel at home, even offering complimentary pick-up and drop-off services from the port. The hotel provides a refillable glass water bottle, and coffee/tea is available in the room for the perfect morning start. Although the hotel doesn't serve breakfast, there are many vegan and vegetarian options nearby. The hotel's location is ideal for those who want to explore the nearby beaches and restaurants. Highly recommended for those who want a luxurious experience without breaking the bank.
2- Le Biu garden View. Le Biu Garden View is a hidden gem on the stunning island of Nusa Lembongan. Guests will find themselves captivated by the tranquil surroundings and the inviting pool, making it easy to stay longer than planned. The rooms are spacious and boast incredibly comfortable beds, with air conditioning ensuring a comfortable stay. The location is ideal, conveniently positioned between the two main villages on the island and just a few minutes away by scooter. Guests can easily access the beach, where they will find fantastic snorkelling and a surf break. The owner, Komang, and his family are incredibly friendly and always available to help with anything guests may need. Komang also happens to be a surf instructor and offers surfboard rentals. With good internet connection, this is a perfect place for remote work.
Nusa Penida
(Diving, Relaxation)
Nusa Penida is becoming a popular spot, there are many more options for accommodation than there used to be. Again ranging from 5 star to the cheaper options. There is not much in the way of restaurants, and getting around the island can take time as the roads are not the best, it is a much bigger island than Nusa Lembongan.
It is a great spot for scuba diving, snorkelling with many species of fish to see in the clear waters. There are many bays to explore, some of which you have to climb down. You can hire a tour boat and watch the Manta rays at Manta point. There are temples to explore one of which you enter through the mouth of a cave.
There is little water on the island so there is not much produce grown there, therefore a lot of produce is brought in by boat, therefore prices are slightly inflated compared to Bali.
1- Atalaya Villas Nusa Penida. Atalaya Villas Nusa Penida offers an exceptional experience with its fantastic view from the restaurant and main pool, surpassing even some of the top-rated restaurants on the island. The rooms are cozy and beautifully decorated, with the "Junior suites with pool view" and "Grand suites with private pool" being the best options for their wide and stunning views. The hotel provides great value and is situated in a quiet location. Guests can enjoy massage services in the comfort of their rooms, and the welcome drink upon arrival is a thoughtful touch. However, there is no phone or TV in the room, but guests can easily communicate with the front desk staff via WhatsApp. It's worth noting that there is no separated smoking area in the restaurant. Overall, Le Biu Garden View is a great choice for those seeking a tranquil and picturesque retreat on Nusa Penida.
2- The Kama. The Kama Hotel is a true treasure, with exceptional beauty in every aspect. The rooms are spacious, radiant, and immaculately clean. The hotel grounds are breathtaking, featuring a spectacular infinity pool and bamboo dining and seating areas. However, what makes this hotel stand out the most is the incredible staff who go above and beyond to cater to their guests. In particular, Wayan is outstanding, displaying professionalism and excellent communication both before and during their stay. The hotel comes highly recommended for those seeking a truly special and memorable experience.
Amed
(Diving, Relaxation, Snorkelling)
Amed is situated on the north east of Bali, it is roughly 100 kms from the Ngurah Rai airport about a 21/2 hour drive. In Amed there are many types of accommodation which are scattered along the coastline or tucked into the hills overlooking the ocean. There are ample restaurants to visit but only a few shops to get your supplies.
The beaches consist of black sand or pebbles and are famous for their diving and occasionally catching a glimpse of the dolphins swimming close to the shore. There are beautiful coral reefs to experience when snorkelling, and in Jemeluk Bay here is a temple underwater to explore.
The majestic Mt Agung is a wonderful backdrop to Amed, you can see where the lava killed a lot of the vegetation on one side of the mountain after erupting in 1963. The volcano is active as we speak, so it is wise to check it is safe to stay in Amed before you visit.
1- Kubu Kangin Resort. The resort is a perfect place to stay for a holiday. The team is very helpful and responsive, ensuring that guests have everything they need. The garden is beautiful and well-maintained, with a clean and nice pool. The bungalows are spacious, comfortable, and offer great privacy, thanks to the lush garden that separates them efficiently. The resort is situated in a secluded area on the back of the main street, which provides a calm and peaceful environment. Despite its seclusion, it's still close to the center and restaurants, making it a great choice for anyone visiting Amed. The resort offers great value for the price, exceeding guests' expectations.
2- MATHIS Lodge Amed. The hotel offers a stunning landscape and breathtaking views that guests will surely love. The various activities organized by the hotel cater to the different interests of the guests, but they may find themselves not wanting to move and just enjoy the place. The swimming pool, the beautiful restaurant, and the massages are just some of the things that guests can indulge in. The hotel's location, however, requires an adventurous drive from the main road to get to the property, but once arrived, guests will find it all worth it. The food served in the restaurant is of good value and the staff are friendly and accommodating. It's a place that guests would love to come back to and recommend to others, as the photos alone leave one speechless.
Whether it's the beaches dotted with bars and cafes or the exclusive boutiques and fine-dining restaurants that draw visitors to Seminyak, they can be assured that this beach resort area, while being just fifteen minutes away from its crowded cousin, is worlds away from Kuta in terms of nightlife and crowds.
The epicentre of Bali's arts and culture, Ubud presents a stark contrast from most of Bali's popular towns that bustle with nightlife and beach activities. Ubud radiates positive energy and is known to attract artists, naturalists and humble travellers.
Canguu is a small beach village twenty minutes from Seminyak. Colourful beach bars, prime surfing conditions and wholefood cafes attract hipsters and beach-lovers from all around the world. The green rice fields beautifully contrast the black volcanic beaches which, while not being ideal for days lazing on the beach, make for challenging surfing sessions. The beaches in this region are also less polluted than those of Kuta and Seminyak, and the water is clean.
Just fifteen minutes away from the Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) International Airport lies Kuta, a town where nightlife is rife, and traffic forever congested with endless sights of scooters and taxis. Restaurants and fast food locales are scattered along the main street of Jalan Pantai Kuta along with countless shops and currency exchange booths. Waterbom is a popular water park that can also be found on this road.
Translating to ‘sweet' in Balinese, Legian promises rich Bali experiences. Beyond its famous bars, sand and surf, Legian offers a variety of attractions, all within easy reach of each other. Away from the beach streets, the main Jalan Legian route boasts rows of art shops and restaurants, while Kuta's recreational and shopping highlights are just minutes away.
Uluwatu is a popular destination in Bali thanks to the limestone hills that tower around the region boasting Bali's most beautiful luxury villas and resorts. It is also home to the landmark cliff-top temple, the Uluwatu temple. The cliffs overlook the Indian Ocean and play host to hidden beaches with world-class surf breaks attracting serious surfers from around the world.
Jimbaran is a fishing village south of Kuta. Boasting a vast scenic beach with calm waters, the village is lined with seafood restaurants and backed by tropical greenery and rocky outcrops. Nearby beaches adorned with coconut palm groves and with strong surf waves make Jimbaran yet another one of Bali's surfing hotspots. Ancient sea temples perched upon cliffs make for pristine sunset viewing and invites visitors to experience raw Balinese splendour.
Nusa Dua is the where you will find the majority of the 5 star resorts. Here you will find all the high end hotel chains with a few cheaper options scattered throughout the area. It is about 20 minutes from the Ngurah Rai airport, via the new tollway.
Sanur is about a 25 minute drive from the Ngurah Rai airport, it is a nice relaxing part of Bali. There are many types of hotels in this area to suit any budget, from 5 star resorts to small family run hotels and homestays. It is a quieter part of Bali, where you will find families and middle aged people with a large majority being Europeans.
Nusa Lembongan is a small island about 12 kms across the Bali Sea from Sanur, there are fast boats that leave from Sanur and Serangan Island for most of the day, or until the swell picks up. To get around you can either walk or hire a motorbike, there is no traffic apart from a few little covered trucks that will pick you up and take you to different restaurants, which is always fun.
Nusa Penida is becoming a popular spot, there are many more options for accommodation than there used to be. Again ranging from 5 star to the cheaper options. There is not much in the way of restaurants, and getting around the island can take time as the roads are not the best, it is a much bigger island than Nusa Lembongan.
Amed is situated on the north east of Bali, it is roughly 100 kms from the Ngurah Rai airport about a 21/2 hour drive. In Amed there are many types of accommodation which are scattered along the coastline or tucked into the hills overlooking the ocean. There are ample restaurants to visit but only a few shops to get your supplies.
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