Advertised as the “Island of Gods”, Bali’s popularity exceeds its own country. For decades, it has been a popular destination among both local and international travelers, and for good reasons. Those who seek for tropical heaven will love Bali’s shores. And those interested in culture may find once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whichever your motive in visiting the island, make sure to stay only at the best hotels in Bali, Indonesia if convenient is a must.
Where to Stay in Bali
When it comes to tourism, there are five main areas in Bali: Denpasar, Ubud, Kuta, Canggu, and Nusa Dua. Each offers its own ambiance and selections of activities, including some of the top things to do in Indonesia. Unlike most places in Indonesia, Bali is gay friendly. Enjoy the best welcoming vibe at one of the Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels in Ubud, Bali.
For beach attractions
Let’s start with the most popular: Kuta. This is the heart of Bali’s tourism. Day and night, it’s filled with loud music and hustling tourism activities, especially along the shore of Kuta Beach.
To enjoy Kuta’s vibe but away from the noise, opt for Canggu. Located around 30 minutes of driving distance away north of Kuta, Canggu offers a quieter place to sleep in. That said, Canggu has pockets or areas where you’ll find myriad of entertainment, too. Like Kuta, you’ll find these mostly along the shore.
For nature and local life
Further north, you’ll find Ubud. This area is known for its peaceful and natural ambiance. If we have to describe Ubud in three words, it would be rice fields, yoga, and monkeys. Indeed, Ubud is one of the world’s top yoga destinations. As for the monkeys, you’ll have to visit the Monkey Forest to see.
Denpasar, the island’s capital, is where you’ll find cheap hotels and local eateries, slightly further away from touristy areas. There’s not much to do in this part of Bali, but it’s a tradeoff for being surrounded by locals and cheap options. It’s also a great spot to cover most of Bali as it’s located in between all three areas we mentioned before.
For a luxury vacation
For a 5-star beach getaway, Nusa Dua is where you should be. Exploring the Southern tip of Bali, which consists of Nusa Dua and Uluwatu, you’ll find one beach resort after another. Note that it takes more than 1 hour to get from other areas including the airport to Nusa Dua itself, so getting around may not be a practical option. But hey, who needs to go when you’re surrounded by the oceanfront luxury and comfort?
Bali is a big island, so there are other parts of Bali you can explore. The northernmost part of Bali, for example, offers pristine beaches. Some of them are popular among avid surfers and divers. There’s also Nusa Penida, a small island off the east Bali’s shore. Choosing where to stay in Bali is an important step as it will dictate what kind of vacation you’ll have. Keep in mind that outside the touristy areas, most places are closed after 10 pm. So, choose wisely. Let’s take a look at your options!
Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach
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Benoa is not far from Nusa Dua, where most of Bali’s 5-star hotels are lining up. Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach is no exception. Any travelers will find this accommodation amazing. Whether you’re traveling solo, on a honeymoon, with friends, or with family, you’ll find a room to suit your needs. Who needs connecting rooms where you can book one with two large beds and a bunk bed?
We highly recommend booking a room with oceanview. Benoa and Nusa Dua have the most beautiful beaches compared to other touristy areas in Bali. The water is crystal blue and the sand is white. Top that with morning sunrise and you’ll have the best view to wake up to every morning! Speaking of which, never miss the hotel’s complimentary buffet breakfast. It’s served at on-site Grand Benoa Restaurant, which overlooks the ocean!
But what makes this one of the best hotels in Bali, Indonesia is the gorgeous swimming pool. Not just because it’s so large, but it’s designed to represent the ocean, complete with the white sand on its edges! You’ll have a tough decision to make: the pristine pool or the hotel’s private beach area right across it?
Febri’s Hotel & Spa
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Located in Kuta, Febri’s Hotel & Spa may not offer the pristine beach most resorts do. But it excels in location. In fact, it’s a stone throw away from Kuta’s entertainment district. Here, you’ll find a shopping mall, restaurants, and night clubs. Besides, the beach is less than half a mile away. Just head to Discovery Mall which connects you directly to the beach. It’s that close!
Traveling with kids? You’ll be happy to know that this is also of the most family-friendly hotels in Bali. First of all, there’s a family room with 3 single beds and 1 double bed. Your kids can have their own. Second of all, the complimentary breakfast includes the kids’ menu. Also, there’s a children’s playground on-site. If that’s not enough, head to Waterbom Park, Bali’s biggest water park, which is less than 10 minutes away.
What we love about Febri’s place is how homey it feels despite located in the heart of Bali’s most touristy area. It feels intimate, unlike most conventional hotels. On top of that, the staff is super friendly. When you find them helpful, do thank them in Balinese and say “Suksma!”
Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort
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Uluwatu is known for its cliffy shores. And Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort sits on one of these areas. Instead of dipping your toes in the crystal clear water, you get to marvel at the ocean from afar. What’s better, you can soak in this view from your own private infinity pool!
Yes. Some rooms in Anantara offer the ultimate ocean view from the balcony, where you’ll also find a private pool or a Jacuzzi. Now that’s luxury! It should come as no surprise since Anantara is one of the world-renowned luxury hotel chains you’ll find in places like Abu Dhabi.
Each room is more like an apartment suite. And the on-site amenities take living large to another level. A fully-equipped gym is at your disposal, along with private trainers on stand by. And if yoga by the cliff is your thing, sign up for the on-site class! The hotel also offers other interesting on-site activities which include learning Balinese handcrafting.
Artotel Sanur
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Sanur is just right outside of the eastern part of Denpasar. It’s not as popular among tourists as the beaches here are more of sunrise spots than a sunset. But this shouldn’t be an issue if you’re an early riser. At Artotel Sanur, you get to enjoy the best morning view from the rooftop infinity pool!
The hotel dubs the word “art” in its name and its decoration. From the moment you step in, you’ll be welcomed by wooden floor, walls, and ceilings. All complemented by paintings and handcrafted furnishing. So artsy! Expect the same from the bedroom’s interior. Each is decorated with different paintings, colors, and furnishing.
It’s not an art hotel without art performances. Occasionally, the rooftop restaurant holds evening entertainment which you can attend at an additional charge. There’s also a cooking class and DJ performances. What else could you ask of the best hotels in Bali? Did we mention that Sanur’s main street is just around the corner?
Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak
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A hotel which bar is filled with non-guest visitors most weekends, how does that sound to you? If live music and night talks over a drink or two is your cup of tea, Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak is your best option. And if the hotel’s bar doesn’t draw your kind of crowd, Kuta’s popular night clubs and bars are within walking distance. After all, it’s located in Seminyak, one of Kuta’s bustling areas.
If you don’t feel like walking, use the hotel’s free shuttle to Kuta’s popular places. They offer one from and to the airport, too. Even though the free shuttle is indeed convenient, strolling around the Seminyak area is a great sightseeing activity by itself. Two of Bali’s most popular beaches, Double Six and Seminyak, are within walking distance.
Each room at Grandmas is simply decorated but has everything you need, from a flat-screen TV, electric kettle, to a minifridge. The on-site activities are what make it one of the most booked hotels in Bali, Indonesia. From painting class and cooking class to Balinese handcrafting, you won’t be bored without wandering outside.
InterContinental Bali Resort
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InterContinental Bali Resort lies in a huge area in Jimbaran, around 30 minutes away from Kuta. The hotel is facing a busy road which will take you straight to Kuta’s main attraction. While in the other end, you’ll find a private beach area, right across the hotel’s pools. The latter is probably what makes this one of the best hotels in Bali. There are two swimming pools and combined, they are wider than the beach area itself! Not to mention they are surrounded by beautiful gardens.
The on-site children’s playground, the restaurants’ kids menu and the baby-proofing features make this a great option for a family vacation, too. Let them get busy with the board games or DVDs while you enjoy a nice relaxing massage at the gazebo, overlooking the ocean.
There are more than 10 room types you can choose from, depending on your party size and your preferences. Some offer club benefits, which means you can access the hotel’s wellness center, watch evening entertainment, choose any class or tour available, or sign up for water activities for free. All-inclusive!
INAYA Putri Bali
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If a hearty breakfast is what you need to start every vacation day, INAYA Putri Bali has got you covered. With a wide selection of dishes, you won’t get bored with eating the same hotel meal over and over again. Some days you’ll have local food, and some others you’ll find Western, Chinese, or Japanese as an option.
This 5-star beachfront hotel is located in the heart of Nusa Dua. As mentioned before, this is where you’ll find some of the best luxury hotels in Bali, Indonesia. Along the shore, it’s one private beach area after another, ensuring your privacy, away from the hustling tourism.
INAYA offers not just conventional hotel rooms, but cottages with private pools and outdoor areas. Incorporating nature with modern decoration seems to be the hotel’s theme. And you’ll see this in the bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and separate seating areas each suite comes with.
THE HAVEN SUITES Bali Berawa
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A rooftop pool? Check. A hearty breakfast? Check. A spacious room with wooden furnishing? Check. A private beach area? Check, check, check! What THE HAVEN SUITES are missing now is its an avid traveler such as yourself.
Berawa is one of the pockets in Canggu, surrounded by dining options. Besides, it’s right across the Batu Bolong Beach, where surfers like to take on the challenge of Bali’s waves. You won’t be short of activities in this area. To make sure you don’t miss any action even when staying indoors, pick a room that overlooks the beach.
We highly recommend this hotel for couples. The hotel’s restaurant is like a café, with a heart-warming nuance. There’s also an outdoor dining area where you can arrange a romantic dinner with your loved one, right by the sea. Wait for the sun to set and pop the question!
Bucu View Resort by Pramana
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Now we’ve come to Ubud, one area in Bali that offers all but beach areas. Located in the center of Bali, Ubud is more for green nature lovers. You’ll find ricefields if not tropical greenery areas. And Bucu View Resort sits right in the middle of them. That alone should be enough to convince you it’s one of the best hotels in Bali, Indonesia.
Hotels in Ubud do not offer grandeur, but they provide more opportunities to reconnect with peaceful nature. Expect wooden furniture and decoration, all the way from the hotel’s lobby to your bedroom. If you book the villa unit, you’ll have your own pool overlooking the river. With the in-room breakfast service, you don’t have to wake up early just to fuel up for a day filled with adventure.
The famous Monkey Forest is just 5 minutes away on foot. Located on Bisma Street, you’re within walking distance of Ubud’s main attractions. Since public transportation is not a big thing in Bali, walking is the best way to explore the areas.
The Bandha Hotel & Suites
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Those who’ve been browsing about Bali must have heard a lot of Legian. This part of Kuta is known for its night entertainment, from bars to clubs. If you’re looking to party all night long, this is your go-to spot. The Bandha Hotel & Suites is right in the heart of it all.
If it’s only for dining, you don’t need to leave the hotel. On-site, you’ll find 3 restaurants. Mozzarella by The Sea is where breakfast is served, ranging from Indonesian food to popular Western dishes. The Swim-Up Bar, on the other hand, excels on its happy hour deals. And as you can tell from its name, it’s a pool bar where you can sit in the pool while enjoying your favorite cocktail. Last but not least, the Alfresco Coffee Lounge, offering a wide variety of coffee-based drinks, perfect for those who need a boost of caffeine!
We recommend booking the room that comes with a hot tub. A great way to cap your day before you go out at night to dance until you drop. You can also opt for all-inclusive rooms where you get free access to all hotel amenities, including their in-house spa. Did we mention that Bali is popular for its relaxing massages?
Sulis Beach Hotel & Spa
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Sulis Beach Hotel & Spa sits at the top of our best hotels in Bali list for many reasons. On paper, it’s a 4-star hotel, but the service quality is up there with other 5-star hotels in Bali. The rooftop pool is what former guests love the most about this hotel. It’s wide, surrounded by enough loungers for everyone, it’s secured, and it overlooks the ocean! Don’t miss the view of the sunset from here. It’s simply breathtaking!
Located in Kuta, this hotel is less than a mile away from the airport, making it a great option for a transit whichever part of Bali you plan on visiting. Let us remind you that the traffic in Bali can be a hassle. Staying as close as you can to the airport is key to not miss your flight.
Its great location promises an abundance of activities nearby, too. From Waterbom Park, Discovery Mall, to Kuta Beach, everything is within walking distance. If this is your first time visiting Bali, this is the right place to be.
Facility-wise, Sulis caters to all kinds of travelers. Children’s playground, family rooms, and kids’ meals make it a great option for families. While the on-site wellness center offers tons of treatments for those who seek for relaxing vacation.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Bali:
- Mauri – Experience Italian dining from fine local ingredients cooked by the award-winning Chef Maurizio Bombini. You can have cocktails and small bites in the mezzanine bar and lounge.
- Single Fin – Hangouts and sunset with your friends, family, or couple at this place set on the epic cliffs in Uluwatu. Choose from a variety of foods and drinks, from salads, prawn tacos, coffee, tea, to cocktails.
- Warong Legong – When in Bali, you should try the authentic local food, Nasi Campur, and delicious homemade ginger beer. Enjoy the nice music and beautiful surroundings while you’re here.
- Bamboo Bar & Grill – Enjoy simple and fresh food and drink, such as thin-crust pizzas and mocktails. The building’s bamboo material gives you a friendly environment feel.
Recommended Activities In Bali:
- Uluwatu Temple, Kecak Dance, and Jimbaran Bay – Kecak Dance is something you shouldn’t miss when you’re in Bali. Watch cultural performance with the spectacular sunset over the Indian Ocean.
- Bali Seawalker – Now everyone can see the wonderful sea life! Try the amazing experience diving down deep the sea by walking through the bottom of the ocean.
- Swim with Manta Rays in Nusa Penida – Experience the beauty of Nusa Penida Island. You’ll go snorkeling to best snorkel sites, including Manta Bay, where you’ll get the chance to swim with rays in the Indian Ocean.
- Mount Batur: Private VW Jeep Volcano Safari – Explore a huge caldera and stunning view of Mount Batur volcano and climb up a lava dune in the old crater. You’ll also meet local farmers and soothe your body in natural hot springs.
