The best areas to stay in Bali for couples are Ubud, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Canggu, Sanur, and Amed.
While many couples tend to stay in Ubud, there are so many alternatives that range from remote fisherman villages to luxurious escapes.
As you can see, you have quite some options and it’s quite an overwhelming answer to your question about where to stay in Bali for couples.
In the next paragraphs, we first give you an overview including a description of each area.
After that, we dive into the details of what each area is all about, including advantages and disadvantages.
Because this article is a long read, you can easily navigate through it by tapping on the green links and blue buttons.
With that being said, let’s jump into our recommendations!
With its beautifl greenery, breathtaking beaches, and vibrant cultural heritage, Bali has long been regarded as an idyllic haven for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
Nestled in the heart of Indonesia, this enchanting island beckons lovebirds from all corners of the world, promising unforgettable experiences and cherished moments.
Exploring the island by motorbike, discovering beautiful rice terraces and majestic volcanic peaks, visiting spiritual retreats and numerous temples and sacred sites, and much more, Bali is an absolute gem.
Couples who are more active and sportive can go surfing and those who love a good party won’t be disappointed.
But with an abundance of options, choosing the perfect place to stay can be a daunting task.
To make sure that you can optimally enjoy Bali, we’ve come up with an article with recommendations to pick the right area for you.
Each area comes with its advantages and disadvantages and certain areas are more suitable for a certain type of traveller.
All of this will be explained in the next paragraphs.
At the bottom of this article, you can find a map with all the recommended areas including the island’s highlights.
With that being said, let’s jump straight to our recommendations.
Where to stay in Bali for couples? Keep reading!
Overview of best areas to stay in Bali for couples
Below, you find a table with an overview of all the recommended areas along with a short explanation of what makes that area so special.
You can tap on one of the green links to go immediately to that recommended area, or just continue reading the article.
Best areas to stay in Bali for couples | What’s so special about this particular area? |
---|---|
1. Ubud | Nestled amidst lush greenery and terraced rice fields, Ubud is Bali’s cultural heart. It offers a tranquil escape with its serene atmosphere, yoga retreats, traditional arts and crafts, and exquisite dining options. Explore the iconic Monkey Forest, visit ancient temples, indulge in spa treatments, and enjoy romantic walks through the stunning landscapes. |
2. Seminyak | Known for its trendy beach clubs, stylish boutiques, and world-class dining, Seminyak offers a blend of luxury and relaxation. Enjoy sunset strolls along the picturesque beaches, savor delectable cuisine at romantic restaurants, and pamper yourselves with rejuvenating spa experiences. |
3. Nusa Dua |
Located on the southeastern coast, Nusa Dua is renowned for its pristine beaches and upscale resorts. This area is perfect for couples seeking a luxurious and peaceful escape. Experience private beachfront dining, unwind at the tranquil spas, and take romantic walks on the white sand beaches. |
4. Uluwatu | For couples seeking a combination of breathtaking views and world-class surfing, Uluwatu is an ideal choice. Perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu offers stunning vistas, secluded beaches, and luxurious cliffside resorts. Catch a mesmerizing sunset at the famous Uluwatu Temple or enjoy a romantic dinner with ocean views. |
5. Jimbaran | With its long stretch of golden sand and calm waters, Jimbaran is renowned for its romantic beachfront dining experiences. Indulge in fresh seafood barbecues under the stars, stroll along the tranquil shoreline, and witness the captivating sunset views over the ocean. |
A laid-back coastal village with a surfer-chic vibe, Canggu offers a relaxed atmosphere and charming beachfront accommodations. Experience vibrant beach clubs, explore the nearby rice fields, and enjoy the youthful energy and trendy dining options that this area has to offer. | |
If you’re seeking a quieter and more traditional atmosphere, Sanur is a delightful choice. Its calm beaches, beachfront resorts, and serene ambiance make it perfect for couples looking for a peaceful getaway. Explore the local markets, take leisurely bike rides along the promenade, and unwind at beachfront cafes. | |
8. Amed | Located on the eastern coast of Bali, Amed offers a serene and secluded retreat for couples. Known for its black sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and excellent snorkeling and diving spots, Amed provides a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist areas. |
How to get around in Bali as a couple?
Hiring a private driver is a convenient and comfortable option for couples.
You can arrange for a driver to pick you up from your accommodation and take you to your desired destinations.
Private drivers can be hired for a full day or for specific trips, allowing you to have a personalized itinerary and explore the island at your own pace.
It’s among the most popular ways to explore the island.
Renting a scooter is a popular and cost-effective way to get around Bali.
It provides the freedom to explore at your own leisure and is ideal for short distances and navigating through traffic.
Just make absolutely sure that you have the correct documents, including insurance, and drive with care.
Ride-sharing apps like Grab and Gojek are also popular and convenient options, but when you’re planning to go a full day of sightseeing, a private driver is far more convenient.
While not as prevalent as other options, public transportation is available in Bali.
You can use the so-called bemos (local minibusses) to travel shorter distances between towns and villages.
However, keep in mind that they can be crowded and may not be as comfortable or convenient for longer journeys.
What is the best time of the year to visit Bali?
The best time to visit Bali typically falls during the dry season, which runs from April to September.
During these months, you can expect sunny days with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities, beach outings, and exploring the island’s attractions.
However, keep in mind that this period is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don’t mind a bit of rain, you might consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, which are from October to March.
While there may be some rainfall during these months, it’s usually not constant, and you can still enjoy many activities with fewer tourists and potentially better deals on accommodations.
The best areas to stay in Bali for couples are:
1. Ubud
Ubud is arguably the most popular area to stay at in Bali as a couple.
It offers a wide range of romantic accommodations, including boutique resorts, private villas, and secluded retreats.
Many of these establishments are designed with couples in mind, offering private pools, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
You’re surrounded by magnificent nature with picturesque rice terraces and tranquil river valleys nearby.
As it attracts many couples but also other travellers who’re seeking tranquility, over time, Ubud became the hub for wellness and relaxation.
It offers an abundance of yoga and meditation retreats, wellness centers, and spa resorts where couples can indulge in rejuvenating treatments, couple’s massages, and wellness activities.
As you can expect from a romantic place like Ubud, many venues cater to couples, so you can expect a vibrant culinary scene with candlelit dinners amidst lush gardens, dine overlooking stunning rice terraces, or indulge in rooftop dining with panoramic views.
But Ubud is also a great base to further explore the island of Bali.
Think of cycling through the scenic countryside, hiking Mount Batur, or visiting the ancient temples.
Is there anything not to like about Ubud?
Well, first of all, it’s among the priciest parts of the island and especially when you want a private villa, expect to pay a premium price.
You can most definitely find a hotel that fits your budget class, let that be clear. But if you want a hotel with all the comforts that Ubud is known for, things can get expensive.
Ubud is most definitely not as pricey as Nusa Dua, which we recommend further down this article.
Secondly, it’s incredibly touristy.
Lastly, you don’t have direct access to the beach.
While Bali, in general, is touristy, there are alternative areas that we recommend in this article that give you a more remote feeling and that not everything is designed to take more money from you.
But the fact that Ubud is incredibly convenient for couples is something we can’t deny and there is a very good reason why so many couples choose Ubud as their base.
For who: couples who love convenience.
Advantages: this part of Bali is designed for couples, great base to explore the island, wellness hub, great food scene for couples.
Disadvantages: pricier than other parts, touristy, and no direct access to the beach.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Bali for couples in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Seminyak
Seminyak is yet another highly popular destination for couples in Bali due to its unique blend of attractions and romantic experiences.
Compared to Ubud, Seminyak has direct access to the beach.
The beautiful beaches offer picturesque views of the Indian Ocean.
Couples can enjoy romantic walks along the shoreline, sunbathe on the soft sand, or simply relax and soak up the tropical ambiance.
The sunsets in Seminyak are particularly breathtaking, providing a perfect backdrop for intimate moments.
Seminyak exudes a stylish and cosmopolitan vibe, attracting couples who appreciate fashion, art, and modern aesthetics.
The area is known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and trendy beach clubs.
Couples can enjoy shopping for unique fashion items, discovering local artwork, and embracing the vibrant atmosphere.
Like Ubud, Seminyak is a food lover’s paradise and it offers an impressive array of dining options.
Seminyak’s culinary scene showcases a diverse range of international and fusion cuisines, making it a delightful destination for couples seeking gastronomic adventures.
This part of Bali is renowned for its luxurious resorts, private villas, and boutique hotels that cater to couples seeking a romantic getaway.
These accommodations often feature private pools, lush gardens, and serene spa facilities, creating an intimate and exclusive ambiance for couples to relax and unwind.
Compared to Ubud, Seminyak offers a more vibrant nightlife scene, with trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues.
It’s also home to numerous world-class spas and wellness retreats, where couples can indulge in pampering treatments, couple’s massages, and rejuvenating therapies.
While Seminyak is known for its modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere, it is conveniently located near cultural and natural attractions.
So, what’s not to like about Seminyak?
First of all, it’s also a pricey area like Ubud.
Secondly, if you want a more peaceful holiday, then you probably should stay elsewhere.
But Seminyak is simply yet another highly popular area among couples in Bali.
For who: couples who want to enjoy beach life and nightlife.
Advantages: direct access to the beach, accommodations for couples widely available, great nightlife and food scene.
Disadvantage: pricey, not ideal for those seeking a peaceful stay.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Bali for couples in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is located in the southeast corner of the island under Kuta and is known for its tranquil and upscale environment, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a peaceful and romantic getaway.
The area is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, creating a serene ambiance perfect for relaxation and quality time together.
Many luxurious resorts and accommodations are located here that are specifically for couples and honeymooners.
These resorts often offer private villas, private pools, and breathtaking ocean views, ensuring a luxurious and intimate experience for couples.
When you compare Nusa Dua with Ubud for example, Nusa Dua offers ocean views, while Ubud offers jungle views.
Many resorts in Nusa Dua are designed to provide privacy and exclusivity to their guests.
With spacious grounds, secluded beach areas, and attentive service, couples can enjoy their time together without feeling crowded or disturbed.
Nusa Dua is home to some of Bali’s most beautiful beaches, such as Geger Beach and Mengiat Beach.
These beaches feature soft white sand, calm waters, and stunning vistas, providing an idyllic setting for romantic walks, sunbathing, or enjoying a romantic picnic.
Nusa Dua is known for its excellent dining scene, offering a variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisines.
Many resorts have their own fine dining establishments that offer romantic candlelit dinners by the beach or in beautiful garden settings.
The area is renowned for its world-class spas, where couples can indulge in rejuvenating massages and spa treatments together, but several areas that cater to couples offer that service.
Nusa Dua’s location is advantageous for exploring other parts of Bali.
It is situated in the southern part of the island, making it a convenient base for day trips to popular attractions like Uluwatu Temple, Tanah Lot, or the cultural hub of Ubud.
You’re also located near the airport.
The biggest drawback though, is the price tag.
Some of the top brands in the hospitality industry have hotels here.
But we can’t deny it’s one of the top choices among couples and if your budget allows it, you will most definitely enjoy your stay in this part of the island.
For who: luxury couples.
Advantages: some of the best hotels on the islands are located here, great location, accommodations take privacy seriously, amazing beaches.
Disadvantages: expect to pay a premium price for this level of quality.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Bali for couples in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Uluwatu
Uluwatu is located on the exact opposite side of the previously recommended area, so it’s also more exclusive and expensive compared to the areas north.
If you’re an active couple and you already know how to surf, then Uluwatu is the perfect area to stay at.
Surfers from around the globe come to Uluwatu to ride the waves and you can do that as well, although it’s definitely an area for beginners.
The surf breaks at places like Uluwatu Beach, Padang Padang, and Bingin Beach provide an exhilarating experience, even just watching these guys and girls being active is fascinating to watch.
But this area offers more water sports than surfing alone.
Uluwatu is perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, providing breathtaking panoramic views.
From Uluwatu, you can visit several stunning beaches nearby such as Padang Padang, Dreamland, and Bingin Beach.
Uluwatu also preserves its rich Balinese heritage and culture, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local traditions.
Explore traditional markets, visit nearby villages, witness traditional ceremonies, or learn about Balinese dance and music for an authentic cultural experience.
As you might have guessed by the name of this area, you can also find the iconic Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali’s six key spiritual pillars.
The temple is perched atop a cliff, and its picturesque setting creates a romantic and mystical ambiance.
You can witness captivating sunset Kecak dance performances here, adding a touch of cultural immersion to their stay.
The accommodations here are more secluded and exclusive compared to Seminyak.
But similar to Seminyak, Uluwatu has a vibrant nightlife scene with nice beach clubs and bars.
And for couples, it’s good to know that you have romantic dining options with breathtaking cliffside views.
For who: active couples who also seek privacy.
Advantages: perfect spot for surfing, cultural-rich area with the famous Uluwatu Temple close by, many nice beaches nearby, romantic atmosphere, has a good nightlife scene.
Disadvantage: similar exclusivity as Nusa Dua results in pricier accommodations.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Bali for couples in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Jimbaran
Right under the airport lies Jimbaran and on the east and west side of Jimbaran lie the previously two recommended areas.
That automatically means that Jimbaran is yet another somewhat exclusive area to stay in Bali.
Uluwatu is ideal for those who love surfing and enjoy spectacular seaside views while Nusa Dua is all about indulgence and relaxation.
So, what’s so special about Jimbaran?
The answer is seafood.
Jimbaran is renowned for its seafood dining scene.
The area is dotted with numerous beachside restaurants that specialize in serving fresh seafood, often prepared in traditional Balinese style.
It’s an absolute feast to dine at these restaurants and it’s a great perk to have them close to your hotel.
Like the other two luxurious areas, Jimbaran offers a romantic setting and a secluded and serene atmosphere.
It’s much quieter than Uluwatu and has more similarities to Nusa Dua.
If you want to experience some nightlife, you have the option to visit Uluwatu (west) or Kuta (north).
Especially when you want to try out fantastic restaurants, Jimbaran is the best option for you.
For who: couples who love food and luxury.
Advantages: amazing (sea)food scene, laid-back atmosphere, fantastic hotels, great location to explore the rest of Bali.
Disadvantage: you’re located near the airport so during the day you will hear the airplanes flying over.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Bali for couples in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Canggu
A laid-back coastal village with a surfer-chic vibe, Canggu offers a relaxed atmosphere and charming beachfront accommodations. Experience vibrant beach clubs, explore the nearby rice fields, and enjoy the youthful energy and trendy dining options that this area has to offer.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Bali for couples in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
7. Sanur
If you’re seeking a quieter and more traditional atmosphere, Sanur is a delightful choice. Its calm beaches, beachfront resorts, and serene ambiance make it perfect for couples looking for a peaceful getaway. Explore the local markets, take leisurely bike rides along the promenade, and unwind at beachfront cafes.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Bali for couples in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
8. Amed
Located on the eastern coast of Bali, Amed offers a serene and secluded retreat for couples. Known for its black sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and excellent snorkeling and diving spots, Amed provides a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist areas.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Bali for couples in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
Unique hotels in Bali for couples
Below, you’ll find a few one-of-a-kind hotels in Bali for couples of which the quality and architecture is simply unparalleled. We hope to inspire you with these examples and perhaps you can make your trip to Bali even more special with your loved one!
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
Map of the best areas to stay in Bali for couples
The next image is a map of the best areas to stay in Bali for couples including its highlights.
The image is in high resolution so you can easily zoom in to see all the details.
A map will follow soon.
There you have it, our recommendations for where to stay in Bali for couples.
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