With an exciting, vibrant and culturally diverse landscape, it’s hard not to fall in love with Bali. Situated near Java and Lombok, Bali is the go-to destination for travellers looking for unique experiences.
As for accommodation, this Indonesian island boasts a range of accommodation to suit all travellers. From trendy backpacker lodges to luxury resorts and everything in between, why not experience it all?
Take a look at our guide to some of the coolest places you can stay at while travelling around Bali, all of which are sure to provide you with a memorable experience.
If you want to live the high life: Stay in a luxury hotel
Sometimes, you might just want to live on a shoestring when you’re travelling and stay at a budget accommodation. We get it. On the other hand, sometimes you might just want to live like a high-roller and stay somewhere super comfortable with space to unwind. And by somewhere, we mean seriously luxury, awe-inspiring hotels.
From Seminyak’s iconic W Bali to Nusa Dua’s Grand Hyatt, luxury accommodation is scattered across the island all the way from the beaches to the mountains.
Just think: infinity pools, massages, and world-class dining are just a few of the perks you can come to expect in Bali. Best of all, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg unlike other parts of the world.
The one thing that really sets Bali’s luxury hotel scene apart from others around the world, is the amount of effort which goes into making a luxury resort look anything but a dated hotel from the 80s.
Take a look at the famous Ayana Resort, where you can sit at the Rock Bar (voted one of the Top 10 Best Bars in the World) and sip divine cocktails as the waves crash against the walls.
If you want to feel the sand between your toes: Consider a beach bungalow
Have you ever woken up to the sound of waves breaking outside your room, got out of bed and felt the sand crush beneath your feet then stepped directly onto a beautiful tropical beach? If this sounds like your kind of accommodation style, Bali and the surrounding Gili Islands are some of the best places to experience this beach bungalow sensation.
Karma Reef on Gili Meno is many-a-Bali-lover’s favourite, and not only because of the accommodation. Meno is a far cry from the uber-popular Trawangan, however, if you’re looking for a little bit of relaxation and a dose of vibrant nightlife, the Le Pirate Beach Club on Trawangan is the perfect spot and is only a stone’s throw from a couple of the island’s most scenic sunset bars.
If you want some peace and quiet: Stay in a private villa
Bali’s private villas are not only beautiful but are much more affordable than others around the world. From Seminyak to Ubud, Kuta and beyond, you can expect super comfy beds, large open lounge rooms, big kitchens, private chefs who’ll make you breakfast, lunch, or dinner (or all three) in-house, and of course, a refreshing private pool.
There are options for private drivers, but if you stay at a villa that’s close to town, there’s no need. Most villas are within a 5-minute walk of shops and bars.
Whether staying with a large group of friends or travelling independently, there are plenty of villas with a range of sizes to accommodate all needs, all of which are very reasonably priced.
If you’re feeling social: Get yourself to a backpacker hostel
Southeast Asia is synonymous with backpackers, and Bali is no exception. If you like to socialise, meet new people, and connect with like-minded travellers, then a backpacker hostel is certainly the place for you!
Some of Bali’s most famous backpacker haunts include Capsule Hotel in Seminyak, where you can sleep in self-contained pods, Karma Backpacker Hostel in surf hub Uluwatu, and of course, the Farmer’s Yard Hostel in Canggu, one of Bali’s up-and-coming destinations!
If you want to learn a new skill: Stay at a surf camp
Bali surf camps are hot on the list for people who want to do things a little bit differently.
Surf schools such as Kima Surf know how to blend world-class breaks and stylish accommodation while creating a genuine surfer vibe for new and experienced surfers alike. It’s as much about forging a tight-knit community as it is cutting waves – and it’s not uncommon to be sharing the camp with pro surfers from around the world who are invested in Bali’s world-renowned surf culture.
If you’re keen to get out of your comfort zone while still having fun, eating healthy, and learning from the best, then retreats such as Kima Surf and Rapture Camps offer a variety of packages along different Balinese coasts.
Find your next Bali adventure here.
