You’re wondering: where to stay in Bali first time. It’s a great question with a lots of answers, depending on the type of traveller you are.
Bali, often called the “Island of the Gods,” is one of those places that just sticks with you. It’s no surprise that millions of travelers fall in love with it every year.
From its wild natural beauty to its rich culture and friendly locals, Bali offers a bit of everything.
Think crystal-clear beaches, jungle-covered hills, peaceful rice terraces, and dramatic volcano views, it’s the kind of place where you can go full adventure mode or simply kick back and relax.
Surfers head straight to Bali’s world-famous waves, while others find their peace in yoga retreats and quiet spiritual corners like Ubud. No matter your travel style, Bali has something for you.
Culture is everywhere here. Balinese traditions are deeply woven into daily life, from temple ceremonies and traditional dances to art markets and handmade crafts. You don’t just visit Bali—you experience it.
Foodies will be in heaven. The local cuisine is packed with flavor, and eating at a warung (local eatery) can be just as satisfying as dining at a trendy beachside restaurant. There’s something delicious around every corner.
And let’s not forget the people. The warmth and hospitality of the Balinese make the island feel even more special.
As the sun sets, Bali’s nightlife wakes up. From chilled-out beach bars in Canggu to buzzing clubs in Seminyak, there’s plenty to keep you entertained after dark.
To help you get the most out of your trip, we’ve broken down the best areas to stay in. Each spot has its own pros and cons, which we’ve outlined for you after each section.
Let’s dive in.
The best areas to stay in Bali for first-time visitors are Ubud, Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu, and Nusa Dua
These are among the most popular areas for tourists.
However, as you can expect from a large and popular island like Bali, you have quite some alternative options.
These include Jimbaran, Uluwatu, Sanur, Nusa Lembongan, and Amed.
Below, we’ll go into more detail about each of these recommended areas to help you decide which one is best for you.
⚠️ Tip: Tap the name of the area to jump straight to that section of the article for more information!
Ubud – Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by the beautiful rice terraces and forests you see on Instagram. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxing and and somewhat artsy atmosphere with opportunities for yoga, meditation, and exploring traditional Balinese culture. However, you don’t have direct access to the beach and nightlife is not as wild as other coastal towns. If you’re planning to move to different areas throughout Bali during your trip, I’d still recommend to start here.
Seminyak – If you’re into stylish beach clubs, boutique shopping, and trendy restaurants, Seminyak is a solid pick. It’s an upscale part of Bali with a lively nightlife and some of the island’s most luxurious places to stay.
Great for: stylish beach clubs and trendy restaurants
Kuta – Famous for its long beach, surf lessons, and energetic vibe, Kuta is a magnet for young travelers. It’s packed with budget-friendly accommodation and is a great spot if you’re looking for fun, sun, and a party atmosphere.
Great for: travel on a budget and parties
Canggu – Canggu is where laid-back beach life meets cool cafés and rice field views. It’s popular with surfers, digital nomads, and anyone who enjoys healthy food, coworking spaces, and a more relaxed but social scene.
Great for: surfers and digital nomads
Nusa Dua – For calm beaches and top-tier resorts, Nusa Dua delivers. This area is perfect if you’re after a more peaceful beach holiday with comfort, security, and great facilities.
Great for: top-tier resorts and luxury.
Jimbaran – Known for seafood dinners right on the sand, Jimbaran is a quieter spot ideal for couples or families. The beaches are clean and relaxed, with fewer crowds and a more local feel.
Great for: a quieter experience for families and couples
Uluwatu – Uluwatu stands out for its cliffside views, epic surf breaks, and dramatic sunsets. It’s a favorite for surfers and travelers looking for scenery, solitude, and a bit of raw Bali beauty.
Great for: surfers and those seeking solitude
Sanur – Sanur has a slower pace, long beachfront paths, and a family-friendly vibe. It’s a great option if you want calm waters, fewer parties, and an easygoing coastal feel.
Great for: a slower pace of life
Nusa Lembongan – Just a short boat ride from Bali, Nusa Lembongan feels like a true island escape. With clear waters, laid-back beaches, and fewer crowds, it’s great for snorkeling and a break from the mainland buzz.
Great for: an island escape
Amed – On Bali’s quieter east coast, Amed offers black sand beaches, incredible diving, and a more traditional village feel. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience a different, more peaceful side of the island.
Great for: diving
Ubud is often called the cultural heart of Bali, and it truly lives up to that name.
The town is filled with art galleries, traditional dance shows, craft markets, and workshops that give you a glimpse into real Balinese life.
Surrounded by rice terraces, jungle, and peaceful rivers, Ubud feels like a green oasis away from the beach crowds.
It’s the kind of place where you slow down, breathe deeply, and soak in the scenery.
Ubud is also one of Bali’s top spots for yoga and wellness.
Whether you’re into daily flows, meditation, or spa treatments, you’ll find plenty of places offering just that.
While other parts of Bali also have wellness options, Ubud has definitely built a name for itself as a center for self-care.
The food scene here is just as varied.
You’ll find everything from local Balinese dishes to plant-based cafés and healthy international bites, often with beautiful jungle views.
One place you shouldn’t miss is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
It’s a mix of nature, spirituality, and cheeky monkeys—just don’t leave your stuff unattended, or a monkey might try to swap it for a banana.
Ubud is also great for shopping.
You’ll find beautiful handmade crafts, jewelry, and textiles at the Ubud Market and nearby villages.
A visit to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, just outside of town, offers postcard-worthy views and relaxing walks.
Its central location makes it easy to explore temples like Goa Gajah and Tirta Empul on day trips.
And in the evening, you can catch traditional dance performances like the Legong or the Kecak—rich in color, rhythm, and storytelling.
Now, Ubud isn’t perfect.
It gets busy and prices are higher than in less touristy areas.
Also, nightlife is pretty low-key here.
Many younger travelers come for the culture and then head to the beach for a livelier vibe.
Still, for culture, nature, and a calm base to explore Bali, Ubud is hard to beat.
Seminyak sits on the west coast of Bali and offers direct access to wide, golden beaches that light up with incredible sunsets.
It’s one of the island’s most stylish areas, attracting travelers who want a little luxury without giving up beach vibes.
The whole neighborhood feels more polished compared to other parts of Bali.
You’ll find upscale resorts, boutique hotels, and elegant villas throughout the area.
Sure, there are luxury options across the island, but Seminyak as a whole leans far more toward the high-end side.
It’s also a shopping paradise, filled with chic boutiques, fashion stores, and local art galleries.
If you’re into design, fashion, or just looking for something unique to bring home, you’ll have a great time here.
Foodies love Seminyak for its huge range of restaurants and cafes.
Whether you’re craving a simple smoothie bowl or fine dining with ocean views, it’s all right at your doorstep.
Once the sun sets, Seminyak really comes alive. It’s packed with beach clubs, cocktail bars, and nightclubs, offering plenty of places to unwind or dance the night away.
At the same time, it’s also a solid spot for wellness, with lots of spas and massage centers for a bit of pampering.
You’ll find decent waves here too, especially for beginner and intermediate surfers.
For bigger surf, you’ll want to head elsewhere.
It’s also a great base for exploring nearby spots like Kuta and Canggu.
And don’t miss Petitenget Temple—sunsets from there are magical.
The only real downside? It’s not the cheapest area, but that’s the price of traveling in style.
Kuta is one of the most well-known areas in Bali, located on the island’s western coast.
It’s loud, lively, and full of energy, making it a top pick for surfers, backpackers, and anyone chasing nightlife and social vibes.
Kuta Beach is one of the busiest on the island.
It’s a great place to catch a wave, watch the sunset, or just relax on the sand.
Beginners will find it especially good for surfing, thanks to the gentle waves and abundance of surf schools.
The area is packed with shops, restaurants, nightclubs, and bars.
It’s perfect for young travelers who want to party, meet people, and enjoy the buzz.
And since it draws a younger crowd, Kuta has plenty of budget-friendly places to stay—think hostels, guesthouses, and affordable hotels.
Shopping lovers won’t be disappointed either.
From local markets to modern malls, Kuta is full of places to hunt for souvenirs and fashion finds. It’s a heavily commercialized area, which means you’ll never run out of things to do—but it also means it lacks that traditional Balinese charm some travelers look for.
If you’re after peace, authenticity, or a more cultural experience, Kuta probably isn’t the right fit.
But if you want convenience, nightlife, and non-stop action, it checks all the boxes.
One big advantage is its location.
Kuta is close to Bali’s international airport, making it a hassle-free entry point.
It’s also a great place to book day trips and excursions to explore other parts of the island.
Families and thrill-seekers can visit nearby water parks or try out a variety of water sports.
And for a relaxed evening, head to Kuta Beachwalk to enjoy ocean views, a drink, and some good food.
Dining options are endless here.
You’ll find everything from cheap local eats to international cuisine.
Kuta is especially popular among younger travelers, and if that’s you, this area might just be your ideal Bali base.
Canggu is hands down one of the best areas to stay in Bali if you’re after that perfect mix of beach life, modern comforts, and a touch of authenticity.
It has this effortlessly cool vibe, laid-back but buzzing with energy in all the right ways. Whether you’re into surfing, café hopping, or working remotely, Canggu offers something for everyone without trying too hard.
The beaches are stunning, especially Batu Bolong and Echo Beach, where sunsets are unreal and the surf is solid.
You’ll see locals and travelers alike catching waves in the morning and grabbing smoothie bowls by noon. Speaking of food, Canggu’s café scene is on another level. From vegan warungs to upscale restaurants, there’s no shortage of good eats.
What really sets Canggu apart, though, is its community.
It’s packed with digital nomads, creatives, and expats who’ve made it their second home.
The vibe is social but not overwhelming, you can find quiet corners to relax or join a group yoga class and make friends instantly.
Plus, it’s way more relaxed than Kuta or Seminyak but still close enough to visit those places when you want a change of pace.
And if you’re into wellness, there are plenty of spas, retreats, and even ice baths to keep your mind and body in check.
Canggu isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place that makes you want to stay longer than you planned. And that’s what makes it special.
If you’re after calm beaches, five-star comfort, and a bit of seclusion, Nusa Dua is the place to be.
It’s a gated resort area, immaculately landscaped, quiet, and polished.
Think wide, uncrowded beaches with calm, swimmable waters and staff handing you a cold towel before you even think to ask.
Perfect for families, honeymooners, or anyone looking to unwind without the chaos of Seminyak or Kuta.
While it lacks the cultural buzz or café culture of other parts of Bali, the focus here is clear: comfort and relaxation.
You’ll find some of the island’s top resorts here, along with beachside restaurants that lean upscale but never pretentious.
Nusa Dua is also great for morning walks or bike rides along its oceanfront path.
If you’re after a clean, hassle-free slice of paradise with incredible service and a safe vibe, this is where you want to base yourself.
Jimbaran is where you go to slow down.
The vibe is quiet and unassuming, but there’s a beauty in that simplicity.
The beach here is one of Bali’s best-kept secrets – wide, soft, and relatively peaceful compared to the west coast chaos.
The highlight? Without a doubt, the beachfront seafood dinners.
Sitting with your feet in the sand while the sun dips into the ocean and fresh fish sizzles on the grill is peak Bali.
It’s a favorite for couples and families who want a more relaxed base, yet still close enough to explore Uluwatu or even pop over to Seminyak.
Don’t expect wild nightlife or trendy shops, Jimbaran is about sunsets, seafood, and serenity. And sometimes, that’s all you need.
Uluwatu is where Bali gets dramatic.
Perched atop rugged cliffs with jaw-dropping ocean views, it’s a dream for surfers, photographers, and anyone who doesn’t mind a bit of a climb for an unforgettable view.
The beaches here—like Padang Padang and Bingin—are tucked into the cliffs, so getting to them feels like part of the adventure.
The surf scene is world-famous, and even if you don’t surf, watching the pros ride waves below a golden sunset is something special.
Uluwatu Temple is also here, one of the island’s most iconic sights, complete with fire dances and a panoramic backdrop.
Accommodation ranges from cliff-top villas to laid-back surf lodges.
It’s not as walkable or social as Canggu, but if you’re looking to disconnect, catch waves, and soak in some of Bali’s most dramatic scenery, Uluwatu is hard to top.
Sanur is where Bali slows down, in a good way.
It’s perfect for travelers who want peaceful beach walks, easy bike rides, and a more local feel without giving up comfort.
The beach here is calm and shallow, ideal for swimming or just floating around, especially if you’re traveling with kids or older family members.
It has this quiet charm that feels a bit like Bali from 20 years ago – less traffic, less noise, but still with great cafés, beach bars, and restaurants.
You can walk or cycle along the long coastal path and just enjoy the breeze.
It’s also a great base for island hopping to Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida.
While Sanur isn’t for the party crowd, it’s ideal for relaxed, extended stays.
It’s comfortable, convenient, and still has just enough going on to keep things interesting.
Nusa Lembongan feels like Bali’s little sister, quieter, more relaxed, and still a bit rugged around the edges.
It’s the perfect escape from the mainland hustle.
The beaches here are postcard-perfect, with turquoise water and powdery sand, and the island itself is small enough to explore by scooter in a single day.
You’ll find seaweed farms, cliffside cafes, snorkeling trips, and some of the clearest waters for diving.
It’s not about luxury, most of the charm comes from its simplicity.
Accommodation is more modest, but waking up to ocean views and no traffic noise is priceless.
It’s ideal for couples or solo travelers who want a true island vibe with great snorkeling, diving, and a tight-knit feel.
Lembongan doesn’t try to impress – it just is.
And that’s the beauty of it.
The last area that we recommend is Amed, which is Bali at its most peaceful.
Tucked away on the island’s east coast, it feels like a different world: quiet, authentic, and beautifully raw.
The beaches here are black sand, a contrast to the golden shores elsewhere, and the area is best known for diving and snorkeling.
The waters are calm, and just offshore lies the famous USAT Liberty wreck, making it a top spot for underwater adventures.
But Amed isn’t just for divers, tt’s for anyone who wants to slow down, connect with nature, and experience a more traditional side of Bali.
The vibe is friendly and local, with fishermen setting out at sunrise and small family-run warungs serving up delicious meals.
It’s not flashy or fast-paced, and that’s the point.
Amed gives you room to breathe, think, and just be.
If you want quiet mornings, meaningful conversations, and a deeper Bali experience, this is your spot.
