When and where to go to Bali. Choose a holiday area based on your interests! New Year... in March

The choice of a resort in Bali depends only on your preferences, while nothing prevents you from changing your location and trying out different options, since there is a large choice.

Kuta- the closest area from the airport and densely populated by tourists. Here you can find a cheap homestay and a comfortable hotel with all amenities for a reasonable price. Streams of tourists and vehicles fill the streets of Kuta every day, making the resort a bit like an anthill. The long beach strip is located very close to the hotels, and the waves on the sea are just right for beginner surfers. On the beach itself or at one of the surf schools you can rent a board and hire an instructor.

North of Kuta is the area Seminyak. It can rightly be called the center of nightlife and restaurant life. Here you can find a variety of boutiques to suit every taste, from European designers to Javanese batik, furniture and home accessories.

Bukit is a peninsula in southern Bali. It contains the resort areas of Jimbaran, Nusa Dua and Tanjung Benoa.

Jimbaran suitable for lovers of a relaxing holiday away from the hustle and bustle (unlike Kuta and Seminyak, for example), being only half an hour from the airport. The resort is famous for its cafes with fresh seafood, which stretch for hundreds of meters along the coast. The tables for guests go almost into the sea, so experience the pleasure of tasting the sea creatures at sunset, feeling the warm soft sand under your feet. In the morning you can go to the fish market, and some hotels even offer cooking classes.

The western part of the peninsula is also famous for its beaches for experienced surfers: Uluwatu, Dreamland, Padang-Padang. Even if you have never held a board in your hands, do not deny yourself the pleasure of visiting these places for the stunning landscape with rocks and raging ocean. Here is the famous Uluwatu Temple, where monkeys frolic, and in the evenings they perform the traditional kecak dance.

There is a resort in the east of Bukit Nusa Dua, 30 minutes from the airport. Star hotels, most of which operate on an all-inclusive basis, responsive staff and developed infrastructure make the resort a dream come true for an idyllic holiday. The sea here is calm, ideal for swimming, the main thing is to follow the tide schedule. Not far from Nusa Dua, on a hill, is the Garuda Wisnu Kechana Cultural Park. Inside you can see huge statues of the god Vishnu and the mythical bird Garuda and watch performances held in the amphitheater every day.

Resort Tanjung Benoa located in the shadow of Nusa Dua, which does not beg its dignity. The place is conducive to a relaxing beach holiday and, at the same time, suitable for those who want to join the culture. The sea here is calm, but do not forget about the tide schedule (you can always ask at the hotel). The place is unique in that it is here that places of worship of several faiths are located: Hindu, Buddhist, Christian temples and a mosque.

An ideal place for a relaxing family holiday - Sanur, which is on the east coast of the island. The journey from the airport takes 30-40 minutes. The main advantage of the resort is its clean white sand beach, about 7 kilometers long. The area will appeal to families with children, newlyweds and the elderly. It's nice to walk around Sanur - the streets are paved with tiles, there is a lot of greenery and flowers around. You can start your morning by jogging along the road along the beach, watching the sacred ceremonies. Many hotels offer diving lessons and dive cruises in some of the most scenic locations.

If you want to explore the surrounding area, watch the life of local residents, appreciate the beauty of the temples and famous rice terraces, then Karangasem- a great opportunity to combine a beach and cultural holiday. Here you can go snorkeling and dive into the depths with scuba diving. The area is rich in attractions, including the highest point of the island - the Gunung Agung volcano, and the main temple complex of Besakih and much more.

The north of the island is not very popular among Russian tourists, but in vain. The journey from the airport will take about two to three hours. A place of complete peace and fusion with nature. You can stay in a place called Lovina. Quiet volcanic beaches, morning trips on a local boat to the sea to see dolphins, spa centers, affordable villas and bungalows - all this makes Lovina a pleasant holiday destination. There is also a dolphinarium here. You can simply swim with dolphins or take a course of dolphin therapy.

In the center of the island, in its very heart, is a town Ubud, the abode of artists and creators. The city, like suede, is created for leisurely strolls; galleries and art boutiques beckon you to go inside. In the evening you can go to a dance performance, and in the afternoon to an art museum. Hotels in Ubud overlook the green jungle, and restaurants overlook the rice fields. The whole atmosphere of the resort sets you up for relaxation, meditation and complete harmony of body and spirit. The journey from the airport takes about an hour and depends on traffic.

Listen to your heart and discover your Bali!

You are going to, you have heard many different names of places associated with Bali - Denpasar, Kuta, Sanur, Uluwatu - but you have no idea how one place differs from another, and which one you should choose for your vacation. BaliBlogger will honestly tell you which part of Bali is best to relax in, and how different areas of Bali differ from each other.

In a nutshell: the main center of tourist life in Bali is the areas and Seminyak. Most hotels are focused there. In addition to hotels in Seminyak, you can also rent a villa: this type of holiday in Bali is very popular.

In addition to Kuta and Seminyak, popular areas in the resort southern part of Bali are the areas of Canggu and its surroundings (Kerobokan, Umalas), Jimbaran and various areas of the Bukit Peninsula (Ungasan, Balangan, Dreamland, Pechatu, Padang Padang, Uluwatu), as well as areas of Nusa Dua , Sanur. These are the areas where beach holidays and surfing are possible. Another popular area - the town of Ubud - is located in the center of the island and the beaches are an hour and a half drive away.

In all of the above areas there are hotels and houses for rent. Depending on what type of vacation you are interested in, whether you plan to travel mainly on foot or by taxi/car/scooter, whether proximity to the beach or surfing spots is important to you, one or another area will be better suited for you. Different areas differ in prices, intensity of tourist traffic, privacy, proximity to tourist attractions, walking distance to the beach, etc.

Recommendations for different areas of Bali depending on the type of holiday:

Beach in Kuta

For the young and restless, for those who want to party and party every day: Kuta and Seminyak.

If your goal is not privacy in a villa with a book by the pool and in the evenings you don’t like to go to bed early and want constant movement, if you need a party every day, if you want to have breakfast, dinner and lunch in restaurants, then only two places in Bali will suit you – either cheap backpacker Kuta or its more expensive neighbor Seminyak.

Trust me, if you want an active nightlife, constant parties and meeting new people, only these two areas are suitable for you. Don’t dream of settling in another area and going to Kuta or Seminyak every day: you’ll get tired of standing in traffic jams.

It is very important to carefully choose between Kuta and Seminyak: if you choose Kuta, you will find yourself among surfers and backpackers, local cafes, young people and noisy parties and happy hours; if you prefer Seminyak, then you will find decent restaurants (some of the best in Bali), trendy bars and clubs, villas and a more affluent crowd. In these areas there are cafes, restaurants, bars and all the shops you need on every corner, and most importantly you won’t be bored there.

Another reason to settle in Kuta or Seminyak: if you don’t plan or, then in these areas everything is located compactly next to each other and you can at least somehow get around on foot. In other areas, without personal transport can be problematic.

By the way, if you decide to try to learn surfing, surfing training for beginners usually takes place on the beach in Kuta, where all the surf schools are located.

Of the minuses: these areas are noisy and there is almost no nature or greenery. The beaches are not suitable for swimming and they are not the most picturesque in Bali.

Kuta

The choice of Kuta or Seminyak is easy. If you love Asia for its democracy and cheapness, if you have no special complaints about the external environment and gloss, if you want to be in the center of the surfing scene, then Kuta is for you. If you want to easily meet an Australian or Brazilian surfer while walking down the street, then Kuta is your place. If you want crazy parties every night, happy hours in bars with super-cheap alcohol, then Kuta is for you. If you don’t understand why you should overpay for food just because the restaurant has a tablecloth, then Kuta is the place for you. If you want to stay in a hotel for $10-20 per room or $250 per month, then you will only find this in Kuta. Kuta is the heart of surfing Bali.

Seminyak

If you are inclined towards decent restaurants, white sofas or European interiors, and lounge-style bars, then Seminyak is for you. If you want everything to be “decent and clean”, then you have only one way - Seminyak. There you will find: Jalan Raya Seminyak street with designer boutiques, DoubleSix and Dhyana Pure, Oberoi and Petitenget streets, as well as Kunti I with numerous bars, clubs and restaurants. It’s a little more expensive there than in Kuta, but you will get a decent level and comfort. (By the way, even there, restaurants are still cheaper than in Russia:) It is in Seminyak that most hotels are located within walking distance from the beach; it is in Seminyak that there are many cozy villas and houses for rent.

In Seminyak you can stay in a hotel ($60-150 per room) or rent a villa (from $180-250). Accommodation and restaurant prices are much more expensive here than in some other areas of Bali, but you will be in the center of everything.

Just remember, living in Seminyak or Kuta is not for those looking for privacy. No rice fields or rocky shores as a view from the window. No seafront villa with private beach - there is no such thing here. Narrow streets full of motorbikers, cars and wandering tourists are what awaits you. But it’s never boring here! It even seems to me that it is better to make your first trip to Bali to Kuta or Seminyak in order to experience the real Bali. I spent all my holiday trips to Bali here.

About villas in Seminyak: the prices for villas here are quite high, plus the areas of most villas are not very large due to dense buildings; in general, for the same money you can get a more interesting option in Canggu or Bukit. So choose what is more important to you - a spacious villa and a cheap price or proximity to the tourist center.

Beach cafes in Seminyak

You can save a little if you find a villa not in Seminyak itself, but in its surroundings. For example, in Kerobokan (just west of Seminyak), in the Umalas area, on Batu Belig Street or between Legian and Sunset Road. Seminyak will be 5-10 minutes away by transport, and the price difference can be significant. But again, you lose walking distance to streets with restaurants and cafes, except that you save a little on taxis compared to more remote areas of Bali.

For surfers: Canggu or Bukit Peninsula.

If the main purpose of your trip is surfing, if you don’t plan to party every day until the morning, but are looking for proximity to surf spots, if you want a little more Balinese flavor, if you already know how to ride or plan to learn during your trip, and if you If you don’t see any difficulty in getting around the island on a motorbike or by car, then the best option is to rent a villa or find a hotel in Canggu, or on the Bukit Peninsula - at the southern point of Bali (these are the areas of Jimbaran, Ungasan, Dreamland, Pechatu, Padang Padang, Uluwatu).

Beach cafe in Canggu / Echo Beach

Changu.

Canggu has ideal spots for both longboarders and progressive surfers, as well as for fairly experienced surfers. Famous spots and beaches are Brawa beach, Batu Bolong, Old Man, Echo Beach, Pererenan and so on. Canggu is a picturesque green area with an authentic Balinese village, green rice fields and black sand beaches. In addition, Canggu is the most trendy area at the moment, it is full of hipsters, all sorts of creative people, fashionable surfers and various other advanced youth. There are many European restaurants and cafes in Canggu, so you will always find somewhere to have lunch or dinner.

Canggu is located west along the coast from Kuta and Seminyak. From Seminyak beach to the beach in Canggu is about 5 kilometers. On the road from Canggu to Seminyak and Kuta - about 10-12 km. Most of the beaches in this area are deserted, almost wild, except for surfers, there is almost no one there, except that the locals sometimes come out at sunset, either during ceremonies or on weekends. There are no “organized” beaches in Canggu: that is, there are almost no sunbeds, umbrellas and beach cafes, but is all this really necessary for real surfers? The surf spots themselves are equipped with parking lots and cafes where you can leave your things and have a snack. But you won’t be able to swim in Canggu because of the strong surf and waves.

Canggu's nightlife is not as vibrant as Seminyak's, but there are also regular parties. And Seminyak is just a stone's throw from Canggu if you travel on a scooter and have found out all the shortcuts through the rice fields. I really love Changu because it is beautiful, green, fresh, there are excellent spots for surfing for different levels and a lot of places with delicious food. If you plan to travel to Kuta and Seminyak often, just look for a villa closer to Seminyak, for example, in areas such as Kerobokan, Umalas, Batu Belig, Brava.

The surfing season in Canggu lasts from April to November, other times in this part of Bali are not too ideal, but still suitable for beginners. By the way, here in Canggu in the summer months (June-August) there is good wind for kitesurfing.

The surrounding area of ​​Canggu is a good option for a relaxing holiday with the family, but you will definitely need a car or scooter to get around.

Bukit Peninsula: from Jimbaran to Uluwatu.

The second accommodation option is the Bukit Peninsula and the most famous surf spots for advanced surfers - Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Balangan, Dreamland, Green Bowl, Bingin and so on. The Bukit Peninsula has its own microclimate, it is a little drier and hotter than in Canggu, there are no green rice terraces, but there are wonderful winding country roads surrounded by the greenery of local trees, and high rocky shores with beautiful secluded beaches, to which you often have to go down down the endless stone steps.

Bukit has the most beautiful (and most expensive) villas with the so-called cliff view - villas on a hill or on the edge of high cliffs, overlooking the ocean and horizons stretching into the distance. True, for such a villa you will have to pay 250-500 or more dollars per night.

Bukit is different from the rest of Bali in terms of nature and atmosphere. Populated mainly by surfers, it is quite secluded and there is not much going on. If you live in Bukit, then you still have to go to Seminyak for glamor and chic. 25 km to Kuta, 20 km to Seminyak. Bukit is the heart of surfing Bali, or more precisely that part of it that comes for real big waves, and not for parties in Kuta. But there are not many surf spots for beginner surfers; it’s better not to surf here at all without an instructor.

Bukit doesn't have as much action or good restaurants as Canggu or Seminyak, so you need to know where to go. And in general, many tourists here get a little bored. If you are not a fan of privacy, then perhaps Bukit is not for you. There is nothing to do in Bukit without personal transport.

Canggu or Bukit?!

When choosing Canggu or Bukit for surfing, do not forget to check the seasonality of the waves - for example, from November to March there are almost no waves at many spots in Canggu. At this time, spots are open in Nusa Dua (eastern part of Bukit) and on the east coast in the Sanur area.

In general, if you are a real surfer, then for the sake of the waves you will always be ready to load your board onto a motorbike and rush almost to the other end of the island, so in fact, it doesn’t matter in which part you live. You can, for example, settle in Kuta, then it will be approximately the same time to get to all the spots, plus you can surf in Kuta.

Well, the last piece of advice - if you are a beginner surfer (but already surfing on your own), then it’s better for you to choose Changu: the surf spots there are much simpler than on Bukit, and the Batu Bolong spot is generally practically a training spot, where surf schools bring their students . If you ski very confidently, or hardly ski, then the Bukit spots will most likely be beyond your capabilities. You can also focus on Kuta beach, this is the main educational spot in Bali, all schools are located there and classes for absolutely zero students are held there. Important detail: some surf schools provide their students with free transfers from their place of residence to the school and to the location of the surf lessons. Another reason to settle in any area you like and use the school transfer.

For those looking exclusively for: Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Sanur.

Those who plan to spend most of their time on the beach, who are traveling with their family and do not want to end up in noisy tourist Seminyak, will most likely suit a hotel or villa in Jimbaran, Sanur or Nusa Dua.

But in general, going to Bali for a beach holiday is a very bad idea. If you can still change your mind, then it’s better to go, for example, to Thailand, because if you come to Bali solely for a beach holiday, you will be very disappointed. Firstly, there is an ocean here, which means strong waves, in some places so strong that you won’t be able to not only swim, but even get into the water without losing your swimsuit (for example, in Canggu); and in some places the bottom is rocky or reefy and there’s not much to buy either (Bukit). The only exceptions are Nusa Dua, Jimbaran and Sanur - there are no waves there and you can swim and sunbathe on the beach.

Secondly, Bali is not at all bounty beaches with white sand, palm trees and bamboo bungalows on the shore. Bali is a volcano island and many beaches have black (or at least dark) volcanic sand. The only exception is the Bukit Peninsula, where there is really beautiful white sand, but you will have to get to the beaches by transport and not all beaches are suitable for swimming due to the waves. In addition, in some places there are corals and stones in the water, and the ocean has the property of ebb and flow, so at low tide the stones and corals are exposed, so you can only get to the water with special shoes.

And lastly: Bali has a huge number of deserted beaches, but they are not equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas and other beach infrastructure. The same beaches where this beach infrastructure is present (like the beach in Kuta or Seminyak) can disappoint you with a huge number of people, both surfers and everyone else, plus souvenir sellers will not leave you alone for a minute. In addition, in winter, the beaches of Kuta are generally different in that even surfers are afraid to come there - the ocean throws a huge amount of garbage directly onto the beach. You can only put up with this garbage if you are a desperate surfer and are driven by a thirst for waves. Read about the differences between these places below.

By the way, if you are a true connoisseur of a beautiful beach holiday, then do not miss a trip to the beach, where there are really beautiful beaches and you can live right in a bungalow on the shore.

An important detail: in Bali the beach does not belong to anyone except the Balinese villages, so there are almost no private or closed beaches in Bali. The maximum you can get is a villa or hotel located close to the beach or when the beach is within walking distance. Villas near the beach are usually much more expensive, so decide based on your budget. In Nusa Dua, Sanur, Seminyak and Jimbaran there are hotels located on the first line from the sea, but the beaches are still open to everyone.

Once again about the waves: everywhere, in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Bukit - the waves break right at the shore and you won’t be able to swim in calm water, in addition, almost all the beaches in Bali are beaches with black or gray sand (the exception is Bukit Peninsula). Bukit has a white sand beach, but the coast itself is rocky; to get to the beach you often have to go down a lot of steps. And there are waves everywhere.

The exception is Sanur and the Nusa Dua region, where the waves break far from the shore and therefore the water near the shore is more or less calm. On Nusa Dua there are the beaches of Geger, Nico Beach, Sri Lanka, Mushroom Rock and so on. In Jimbaran, the waves are generally not very strong, so it is possible to swim there.

Seminyak. Seminyak has good hotels right next to the beach, and the area itself has a huge number of restaurants, cafes, bars and designer shops. You won't get bored here in the evenings and Seminyak is equally close to most interesting places in Bali. I already wrote above that Seminyak is for those who do not want to sit around the clock on the hotel grounds, but want active evening and night life. The advantage of Seminyak is its active tourist infrastructure, but the disadvantages are the breaking waves and not as picturesque beaches as in other places. And don’t forget that the beaches of Kuta and Seminyak are places for learning to surf; don’t expect calm waters, there will be people with boards around.

Jimbaran. An alternative to Seminyak can be considered Jimbaran, which is located on the Bukit Peninsula, there are more or less organized beaches, where there are waves much less often than in other places in Bali. Although there are quite a lot of large hotels in Jimbaran with a whole complex of entertainment, it seems to me that Jimbaran is ideal for renting a villa near the beach. There are slightly calmer beaches here than in Seminyak, fewer restaurants and cafes, but overall not far from Kuta and Seminyak. I don’t see any particular advantages in Jimbaran, except that if you rent a villa there, you have a better chance of finding a villa with an ocean view and a little larger in size than for the same money in Seminyak, since Seminyak is quite densely populated.

. This is part of the Bukit Peninsula with picturesque white sand beaches and not very many people. People coming to Bali are divided into those who come to Nusa Dua and everyone else who comes to Bali. Nusa Dua has its own glory: this place is a real tourist reservation for package tourists, this is the place of huge hotel complexes with beaches, so beloved by Russian tourists that sometimes Nusa Dua resembles Turkey or Egypt. Plus, all the cafes and restaurants there are much more expensive than in any other place in Bali. Many people living in Bali avoid Nusa Dua and rarely visit there, unless they come to ski in the winter at local spots or sunbathe and swim at local beaches. So, I would not recommend going to Nusa Dua to a hotel. It is better to rent a villa nearby and come to the beach every day by car or motorbike. In general, Nusa Dua has only one advantage compared to other places - beautiful beaches. There are no more advantages, but rather only the disadvantages described above.

This is another beach-resort place, characterized by the fact that in the huge hotel complexes there you can get all the entertainment right on the spot - massages, spas, tennis courts, cafes and restaurants, so you don’t have to leave the hotel at all. The water on the beach is calm and there are no waves, as the beaches are fenced with special bays and breakwaters. Sanur is a favorite among wealthy European and Australian retirees, so overall it has a very relaxed holiday atmosphere. In my opinion, it is too boring for those who are not looking exclusively for a hotel and beach holiday. But Sanur has a significant advantage compared to Nusa Dua - there are still almost no Russians there and Sanur has not yet turned into Turkey or Egypt in terms of the type and format of vacationers.

. And finally: for a super beautiful beach holiday, go to the Gili Islands for three or four days. A ticket on a fast boat to Gili and back costs around $35-55. Somewhere, but on the Gili there is a real bounty: the whitest sand, the clearest blue water, small islands that can be walked up and down in one day, no cars or motorbikes. The main thing is, don’t forget to take a book, movies or a boyfriend, after two days you will realize that there is absolutely nothing to do on the islands, and all the possible fish and inhabitants of the underwater world are already greeting you when they meet

For those who need a beautiful villa, it does not matter whether it is far or close to surf spots or the beach.

Based on how far you want to move away from the tourist crowd into the green thickets, or, on the contrary, you want to be closer to the main “movement”. For those looking for solitude, Canggu, Bukit or even Ubud are suitable (read about it separately further). If you want to be somewhere in the middle, then between Seminyak and Canggu you can look at places like Kerobokan and Umalas, and between Seminyak and Bukit you can look at Jimbaran. I have already described the difference between Bukit and Canggu above. In addition, Canggu is usually much cheaper than Bukit.

If you want villas with an unusual beautiful view, then look at the villas on the hills of Jimbaran - this is the Ungasan area, very beautiful (but expensive villas) on the rocky shores and hills in the Pechatu, Uluwatu, Padang-Padang area.

If you want beautiful views of Balinese villages, green rice terraces and the like, then your option is to get further away to Canggu. Overlooking even more beautiful tropical greenery and jungle - this is Ubud.

For those seeking solitude in the greenery of the rice terraces and who do not need the ocean at all:

If you are looking for a relaxing holiday away from the tourist areas, want a real Balinese village and fresh greenery around you, if you don't need the ocean, or if you are intrigued by the book "Eat-Pray-Love", then perhaps you need to rent a house in Ubud?

Ubud is another "life center" in Bali, but completely different from Kuta and Seminyak. Ubud has a huge number of restaurants, cafes, shops and galleries, but at the same time, Ubud has its own kind of tranquility. Around Ubud there are real Balinese villages, with endless rice terraces, green forests and winding mountain-like rivers. In addition, Ubud is a place that is imbued with creativity - there are a huge number of galleries, art shops, and a huge number of artists, sculptors and designers, both local and foreign, live here. Here, every village around Ubud is famous for some kind of craft: in Cheluk they make silver jewelry, in Masa they make wooden crafts, and in Singakert they carve stone statues of Buddha, Ganesha or someone else.

It also seems to me that Ubud is an ideal place for a gastro-relaxation tour, there are a huge number of restaurants, very different and very tasty, there are excellent spas, some of which, like Maya Spa Ubud, are known throughout the world. Here you can do creativity, yoga, or just be alone with yourself.

In Ubud there are a large number of different hotels from cheap to expensive, located either in the picturesque green Balinese jungle or on the pretty streets of Ubud. In Bali you can also rent a house or villa.

Less popular tourist areas:

Places, including those described above, as well as areas of Bali that you have probably heard about, but in which we do not recommend you spend your entire holiday unless you have a compelling reason to do so. Read about these areas and the reasons below:

– the east coast of the island, super secluded hotels and black sand beaches. Only divers usually come here, as there are interesting dive sites and diving centers on the east coast. If you don't plan to dive, you will be bored there. Maximum worth spending there: 2-3 days.

– northern coast and Bali Sea. A place for even quieter foreign retirees, sometimes reminiscent of Russian southern resorts in April, before the season begins. Quiet, deserted and life seemed to stand still. You can go there for one or two days, but more time there will simply be boring.

The areas of Bali are very different and have different microclimates, infrastructure and nature, but together they make Bali a multifaceted and unique holiday destination. The south of the island is more populated and more tourist developed; the north and center of the island also attract tourists, albeit in smaller numbers. The east of the island offers a more calm and measured holiday. The western part of the island is chosen by tourists who want privacy and a taste of more traditional Balinese life.

Despite the relatively small size of the island of Bali, its different parts have a different atmosphere from each other.

There are eight municipalities (kabupaten) on the island of Bali.

1. Badung
2. Buleleng
3. Bangli
4. Denpasar
5. Gianyar
6. Jembrana
7. Karangasem
8. Klunkung (which includes the islands of Lembongan and Penida)

However, do not think that the municipalities and districts of Bali are the same thing.

But in this article we will not describe the administrative regions of Bali (more precisely, municipalities). The fact is that this information will not be very useful for readers who are planning their vacation on the island. Instead, we will tell you about the areas of Bali that tourists will need information about when choosing a place to stay on the island.

Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua (literally translated as “two islands”) is located in the very south of the island and is a separate resort area. Clean and well-kept area, some of the best beaches on the island, the absence of annoying beach vendors, restaurants, cafes, shops and 4 and 5 star hotels make this area ideal for a relaxing and comfortable holiday on the island. There is practically no budget housing in this area. It takes about 20 minutes to get to the airport from Nusa Dua.

Advantages
-best beaches on the island
-quiet and relaxing holiday
-not all areas of Bali can boast of such cleanliness as in Nusa Dua

Flaws
-accommodation is not cheap

- little Balinese flavor
- the ebb tides are quite noticeable

Tanjung Benoa

Tanjung Benoa district is a peninsula near Nusa Dua. There used to be a small fishing village there. Now these are 3-4 star hotels. A large number of companies offering products are concentrated on the beaches of Tanjung Benoa. The beach is quite good for swimming, but it is also worth keeping an eye on the low tides, as they are felt here. The cost of living is slightly lower than in Nusa Dua. A large number of small but cozy cafes and restaurants offer a variety of cuisines. It takes about 20 minutes to get to the airport.

Advantages
-good selection of hotels
-close to the airport
-well-developed infrastructure
-close to the beaches in Nusa Dua

Flaws
-not the best beach in Bali
-it’s a long drive to the main attractions of Bali
-there are minor problems with cleanliness

Jimbaran

Jimbaran is close to Kuta and the airport. Famous for its coral sand beach and beach restaurants with fresh seafood that open in the afternoon. The best time to visit them is in the late afternoon, when you can sit at a table right on the ocean shore and watch a beautiful sunset while enjoying a delicious meal. The range of prices for accommodation in this area is very wide. Here you can find both budget accommodation and luxury villas and hotels of the same class. It's a 10-minute drive to the airport.

Advantages
-developed infrastructure
-nice beach
-convenient to travel to other areas of the island
- large selection of places to stay
-opportunity to watch sunsets

Flaws
-noise from the airport

Kuta and Legian

These areas of Bali in the south of the island offer mainly budget holidays. Here you can find a large number of inexpensive bars and cafes, small shops with souvenirs, massage parlors and nightclubs. The main contingent is European youth and budget tourists from Australia. These areas of Bali have a bad reputation due to scammers trying to deceive gullible tourists when exchanging currency and offering counterfeit watches, gold jewelry, etc. The main advantage of these areas is, of course, the famous Kuta Beach, which is perfect for learning to surf and contemplating incredibly beautiful sunsets (the best time is April-June and August-October). The areas are very close to the airport.

Advantages
-a large selection of inexpensive hotels and guesthouses
-a large number of bars, restaurants and shops
- close distance to the airport

Flaws
-traffic jams
-many merchants on the beach
-presence of scammers
-noise

Seminyak, Krobokan and Petitinget

These areas of Bali are located northwest of Kuta. A large number of excellent restaurants, bars and cafes, clubs, spas and designer boutiques are always welcome to visitors. Also in these areas there are many luxury villas, the price range of which starts from $170 per night. The nightlife is intense and a large number of young people (and not only) flock here. Seminyak Beach is famous for its beach bars, where you can watch the sunset over a cocktail. It's only a 30-minute drive to the airport.

Advantages
— areas of Bali with the most developed recreational infrastructure
-rich nightlife
-it’s convenient to get to other areas from Seminyak
-nice beach

Flaws
- the cost of living is quite high
-a relatively large number of vacationers
-big waves on the beach and strong currents

Sanur

Sanur is located east of the airport and is a quiet and peaceful resort area. That is why it is so popular with older European tourists. There are a large number of inexpensive restaurants, bars and shops here. The cost of living is slightly higher than in Kuta. The beach line is quite large, but low tides greatly affect the comfort of swimming in the ocean.

Advantages
-quiet and peaceful area
-a large number of inexpensive restaurants and shops
- close location to the airport

Flaws
- low tides on the beaches of Sanur, making swimming uncomfortable
-a large number of coral fragments on the beaches

Ubud

An area of ​​Bali where you can experience the authentic culture and traditions of the island. Accommodation can be found both cheap and expensive in boutique hotels or luxury villas and hotels. A large number of good restaurants with different cuisines and a number of cultural show programs in them. It is here that various cultural festivals, artist exhibitions and conferences are held. It is not for nothing that this area of ​​Bali is considered the cultural and spiritual center of the island. Also in the surrounding area are many of Bali's very popular attractions. Among them are, for example, a cave, holy springs, a monkey forest, and many others. Ubud is located in the hilly central part of the island and therefore you can see picturesque rice terraces, mountain rivers and gorges. Ubud has a special atmosphere of friendliness and leisurely pace.

Advantages
-quiet and relaxing holiday
- clean and cool air
-a large number of good restaurants and bars
-beautiful nature
-close distance to many attractions

Flaws
-great distance from the coast
- a lot of precipitation
-nightlife is practically non-existent

Amed

Amed is located in the east of Bali and consists of several villages along the coast. Mass tourism has not yet arrived here, so a quiet and relaxing holiday is guaranteed. Amed is one of the driest areas in Bali, so during the wet season it becomes more attractive among tourists in the know. The area is very picturesque due to the proximity of hills and mountains to the coast. Amed has excellent snorkeling. If you get up early in the morning and swim into the ocean, you can see schools of dolphins swimming for breakfast. Near Amed there are such attractions as the Kerta Gosa Palace and the Tirta Ganga Water Palace and others. The cost of living is very comfortable and you can find good accommodation from $40. The airport is really far away - 2-3 hours depending on traffic.

Advantages
- relatively low prices for accommodation
- peace and quiet
-opportunity to see real Bali
-good diving and snorkeling

Flaws
-no shopping
- quite hot climate
-small black sand beaches
-very modest infrastructure

Candidasa

Bali Candidasa area is located in the east of the island and, like Amed, consists of several villages. The area is very quiet and peaceful. The beach has black sand, although there is one section with white coral - it’s called White Sand Beach. This beach can be classified as

An area of ​​Bali located in the very north of the island. The area, due to its remoteness from the airport and the south of the island, which is traditionally popular among tourists, is not as developed as the southern areas. Tourists also relax here, albeit in small numbers and usually come from the south for a couple of days. Accommodation in hotels and bungalows is budget and average in cost. Beach with black volcanic sand, there are almost never waves. In Lovina, early morning trips to the ocean to watch dolphins swim in pods for prey are very popular. There are few bars and restaurants, but they still exist. The drive to the airport is about 4 hours. There has been talk for a long time about the construction of a second international airport in the north of the island. If these plans come true, Lovina will experience intensive development.

Advantages
-low cost of accommodation
- relaxing holiday
-cheap prices in establishments
-there is an opportunity to get acquainted with the real Bali

Flaws
-beach is not for everyone
-far location from the airport
-not all tourists like a relaxing holiday

Pemuteran

This area of ​​Bali is not known even by some expats living on the island of Bali. It is located next to Menjangan National Park on the northwestern coast of Bali. It is a small village with a small number of inexpensive hotels. This area is ideal for a secluded and relaxing holiday in a purely Balinese atmosphere. Excellent diving and snorkeling, friendly Balinese who are not tired of tourists, and a great opportunity to get acquainted with the traditional life of the islanders. However, it is a long drive from the airport - 3-4 hours, depending on traffic congestion.

A fashionable tourist area in the Nusa Dua area - an enclave of tropical gardens, pristine beaches and well-trained staff. The resort has mainly 4* and 5* hotels operating on an all-inclusive basis and offering a full range of services. Nusa Dua has a surf center and a golf center with an 18-hole course.

Between sunbathing and dinner at a traditional restaurant, vacationers can visit wonderful spa centers, or rent a bicycle and ride around the picturesque surroundings. The most convenient place to buy souvenirs is in the huge Galleria shopping center, where there are numerous cafes and boutiques.

Once a small fishing village 2 km north of Nusa Dua, Benoa is now the island's newest resort and water entertainment center. The most popular activities are banana boat rides, diving, fishing, jet skis, windsurfing, parachuting over the sea surface, etc.

Benoa hotels are represented by both upscale hotel complexes and modest budget hostels.

Interestingly, at the resort, at a distance of 100 m from each other, there are a Muslim mosque, Hindu and Chinese temples. This allows you to get acquainted with different worldviews and philosophies; you just need to first familiarize yourself with the rules of behavior and appearance for entering each of the sanctuaries.

For a serene holiday on white sand surrounded by lush greenery on one of Bali's elite beaches, stay at Jimbaran Resort. There are only five hotels directly on the shore (Jimbaran Puri Bali Resort 5*, Ayana Resort and Spa 5*, Keraton Jimbaran Resort & Spa 4*, Inter Continental Bali Resort 5* and Four Seasons Jimbaran Bali 5*). The rest are located within walking distance from the sea. Among them there are both inexpensive guest houses and luxurious villas, providing an unforgettable vacation.

In the mornings, holidaymakers can go to the exotic Jimbaran market, where the freshest, only caught fish, local fruits and vegetables are sold. But tourists prefer to watch the sunset in fish restaurants located on the seashore.

Without a doubt, the most crowded, noisy and colorful resort on the island of Bali is Kuta Beach. There are many restaurants, cafes, discos, and water sports here. In any season, there are the most surfers here, who come to conquer the wave from all over the world. A huge number of bars are aimed at Australian tourists, of whom there are a great many in Kuta.

The hotel base in Kuta is represented mainly by cozy three-room apartments, about 15 4-star hotels and several upscale five-star hotels. Like any beach on the island, you can rent luxury villas at this resort. The beach is carefully cleaned, but the surf brings a certain amount of garbage and empty bottles every morning.

After beach relaxation and dinner at a fish restaurant, you can go to the Kuta Theater (www.kuta-theater.com), where a magic show with national dances, music, special effects and fire takes place for an hour.

The Legian resort, bordering Kuta, has the same developed infrastructure, but a more relaxed atmosphere. Surfing and evening entertainment are also popular here; you can relax in one of Legian’s luxurious spas. There are about 100 hotels in the village, some of them are located right on the seashore.

The unique atmosphere of the center of spiritual and cultural life of Bali penetrates into every cell of the body of travelers who come to Ubud. The area, made up of 14 villages, is famous for its art galleries and traditional craft centers. The resort is located at an altitude of 400 m above sea level, so it is cooler here than in other parts of the island. Emerald rice terraces, hiking trails to the mountains, the Ayung River flowing nearby, numerous museums and temple complexes attract true connoisseurs of beauty.

The resort of Lovina, which is not the most popular among tourists, is located in the north of the island, and is significantly different from the crowded southern beaches. And there are just one or two hotels here. The sand is of volcanic origin, dark gray, and sometimes the water throws small debris onto the shore. Lovina is worth a visit to see numerous schools of dolphins at dawn, swim in the Banjar hot springs and go to the largest Buddhist temple on the island - “Brahma Vihara Arama”.

In the southwest of the Bukit Peninsula is the town of Uluwatu, primarily known for its 11th-century temple complex standing on a cliff. During the excursion, travelers see only the temple, and do not know that the beaches of Uluwatu are one of the most beautiful and secluded in Bali. And for professional surfers, higher waves than here are simply not to be found. You can stay in luxury villas and luxury hotels, as well as in economical 2-3* hotels. When visiting the temple complex, tourists should be very careful about their personal belongings, as the numerous macaques that live here take away glasses, shoes, and even photographic equipment from vacationers. You can have a snack and refresh yourself with a beautiful view of the azure waves and slightly pinkish sand in numerous cafes. Most often they order king prawns, oysters, mussels and other grilled seafood.

Candidasa (Candi Dasa)

The small cozy town of Candidasa, located between the mountain range and the beach, is distinguished by lush vegetation and a beautiful coral reef. The beach has black volcanic sand; at high tide there are quite dangerous waves, which even experienced surfers are afraid to ride, since the bottom is uneven in some places, with boulders and coral formations. Despite the uncrowded resort, Candidasa has a large number of hotels and restaurants to suit every taste and budget.

Not far from the city there is an authentic village of Tenganan artisans, as well as the beautiful Tirta Gangga Palace, on the territory of which there are many beautiful fountains, lakes and pools.

In the area of ​​Tanah Lot (22 km from Kuta), tourist life is centered around the Hindu temple of the same name on the water. You can approach it only through a narrow bridge that appears on the surface only at low tide. On the territory of the temple, built in the form of a pagoda, there are interesting sculptures from different eras, but the entrance to the sanctuary itself is accessible only to believers. The cost of visiting Tanah Lot is $2.2 for an adult and $1.1 for a child. Near the temple there are several quite good hotels: Villa Sunset Golf 3*, Natya Hotel Tanah Lot 3* and Dewi Sinta Hotel and Restaurant 2*.

There are a large number of resorts concentrated on the island of Bali. Some of them are located right on the coast and have magnificent beaches. Others are hidden in the outback of the island and allow you to enjoy a relaxing holiday and see the most interesting places in the region. I suggest taking a closer look at each resort, which will allow you to choose your own paradise in Bali.

This is one of the first resorts in Indonesia where tourism began to develop. Just 40 years ago, no one could even imagine that from a simple fishing village a resort town would emerge that tourists would want to visit even from the most remote corners of the globe.

Today the area has great tourism potential. Numerous hotels of different levels were built here, entertainment venues, catering establishments, shops, souvenir shops and other infrastructure facilities were opened.

Numerous beaches are suitable for both relaxing and active holidays. Many of them are popular among surfers. Even those for whom surfing is a completely new sport will appreciate them. The main flow of vacationers are Australians, which is why many establishments are aimed at them.

The central beach is called Kuta Beach, and it is from here that the development of the tourism industry began. It is quite wide, the entrance to the sea is gentle, the sand is white. Most of the hotels are aimed at the average tourist, but finding higher-class accommodation is also not difficult.

Legian

One of the most luxurious resorts in Bali. It is located north of Kuta, and its literal name translates as “pleasant” or “delicious.” Its picturesque landscapes, pleasant climatic conditions, stunning beaches - all this is guaranteed to give an unforgettable vacation experience.

All beaches are formed naturally and consist of a gray color that takes on a metallic hue at dawn. The advantage of the resort is that there are no rock formations or coral reefs, making it safe to swim. The entrance to the sea is gentle. There are many surfers here, coming from all over the world. You can meet both professional wave conquerors and those who are just starting to master this sport.

Unlike other resorts, Legian has lower pricing for many tourist services. There is also night entertainment and a well-developed food system. Fans of shopping will also be able to find something to their liking. The resort has numerous shops, supermarkets, and large department stores.

Jimbaran

The resort is located in the south of the island and is the best place for those who are looking for conditions for a calm and secluded pastime. The international airport is 5 kilometers away, allowing you to get to hotels in a matter of minutes. The hotel base is represented by a wide variety of accommodation options. It will not be difficult to find a modest guest house or hostel here. A higher level of comfort and service is offered by 4 or 5 star hotels, of which there are also plenty at the resort.

The beaches of Jimbaran are clean, the water is azure in color, which attracts couples with children. Facilities on the beaches include sun loungers and umbrellas. In numerous cafes and restaurants you can taste delicious seafood dishes, most of which are caught in the local waters. As for surfing, in most cases beginners come to the resort, since there are no high waves here. The rich underwater world allows for snorkeling. The main attractions of the region are the Uluwatu Temple and the fish market.

Nusa Dua

Looking for a place to relax at the highest level? Then the Nusa Dua resort is just what you need. It is a closed area and is intended for foreign tourists. The resort is located in the eastern part of the Bukit Peninsula. Almost all hotels are classified as 4 and 5 stars and operate on an all-inclusive basis. A highly developed infrastructure will allow even the most demanding tourists to experience a decent level of comfort. Holiday prices are quite high, so I advise you to book accommodation in advance.

The disadvantage of the resort is that the ebb and flow of the tides are very noticeable here; some hotels even post a schedule so that vacationers know when is the best time to go to the beach.

In the western part of the area there are several cliffs that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Nusa Dua has a huge number of spas and shopping facilities. As for attractions, there are few of them here. But there is always the opportunity to go on excursions to other areas of Bali.

Tanjung Benoa

The resort got its name in honor of a small fishing village, and this is no coincidence, since most of the region’s population is engaged in fishing. Tanjung Benoa simply amazes with its lush tropical vegetation, picturesque landscapes, as well as its wonderful beach, which consists of the finest light-colored sand.

This is one of the youngest tourist destinations, developing at an intensive pace. The central beach of Benoa allows you to enjoy a quiet and relaxing holiday. Such conditions are perfect for couples with small children. Despite the fact that the resort is not famous for active recreation, you can still meet surfing fans on the beaches, mostly those who are just starting to master this sport.

There are a huge number of food outlets and bars located within Tanjung Benoa. Cafes and restaurants serve both national and European dishes. The Kazunoya restaurant deserves special attention; it offers Japanese cuisine.

Sanur

The resort is located in the southeast of the island. Its construction was intended specifically for tourists, making the area the first resort settlement in Bali. Fashionable hotels and highly developed infrastructure have made it an ideal place for an elite holiday. Mostly people come here with small children and those looking for beaches for a relaxing and secluded holiday.

The resort beach bears the same name and stretches along the coast for 5 kilometers. There is a stone path along it, which allows you to enjoy walking or cycling. Due to the fact that there is a coral reef close to the coast, the sea here almost always remains calm. The entrance to the water is gentle, there are no toxic algae or dangerous jellyfish. Fans of active recreation will appreciate diving. In addition, there is the opportunity to learn windsurfing or kiteboarding. Among the attractions, it is worth highlighting the Le Mayer Museum, the Pura Blanjong Temple, and the mangrove reserve.

Padang Bay

A small resort located in the eastern part of Bali. There is a ferry terminal on its main beach, which makes the coastal part not particularly attractive for recreation. That is why this place is often used as a transit point from which to travel to Lombok.

But few people know that a little further there are several more beaches that are ideal for relaxation. Among them is the Blue Lagoon, where a coral reef originates almost at the very shore, which creates optimal conditions for snorkeling.

The resort infrastructure is poorly developed. Here you will not find shopping centers or entertainment venues, thanks to which your vacation takes on a completely different direction. There are several diving centers operating on the streets of the resort, and the stunning nature and diversity of the underwater world will give you the most vivid diving experience. For lovers of excursion holidays, several magnificent temples have been preserved; it is from Padang Bay that the easiest way to get to the Batur volcano.

Chandi Dasa

In the south-eastern part of Bali there is the resort town of Chandi Dasa, which is perfect for lovers of a relaxing holiday and for those who decide to get acquainted with the underwater world of the Indian Ocean. The area is surrounded on all sides by picturesque landscapes, the formation of which was influenced by mountain ranges and the endless ocean.

The main hotels, villas and restaurants are located along the road, but the local population lives on the outskirts of the village. There are practically no beaches suitable for swimming within the resort. They are all slightly off to the side. That is why tourists practically do not come here for a long holiday. Vacationers can stay for a couple of days in order to get acquainted with the sights of the eastern part of the island. Another feature of the resort is its numerous diving schools that organize dives in the most beautiful places in the region.

Amed

In the east of the island is the resort of Amed with its beach of the same name. This is another amazing place for lovers of secluded time. The area is perfect for a beach holiday; there are almost never high waves here, which attracts couples with children. The coastal strip is formed by coarse, dark-colored sand.

Within the resort there is housing of all classes; it will not be difficult to find a budget option or five-star apartments. In addition, it is possible to rent villas for a longer period.

Near the resort is the Gunung Agung volcano, which is the highest point on the island. For lovers of active recreation, trekking routes have been developed that can take you to its peak. The rich underwater world and the presence of a coral reef create conditions for diving and snorkeling.

Lovina

The quiet resort of Lovina is located in northern Bali. It stretches for 10 kilometers, and its atmosphere is significantly different from that inherent in the southern coast of the island. Good infrastructure and interesting attractions make the area the most visited in this part of the island. The center of the resort is in the village of Kalibukbuk, where most of the hotels, restaurants and tourist offices are located.

The beach is wide, its distinctive feature is dark-colored volcanic sand. The bottom is shallow, there are almost never strong waves. The only drawback is the ebb and flow of the tides. The main entertainment is swimming with dolphins. Around 5-6 o'clock in the morning, dozens of boats set out to sea to enjoy the incredible spectacle. And if you take a walk to the beach after sunset, you can see how the water begins to shine with a silvery-blue hue. It's all because of the night plankton.

Ubud

If you want to get acquainted with Balinese culture and at the same time enjoy picturesque tropical landscapes, then Ubud is the resort for you. The area attracts with its calm, exotic atmosphere. The infrastructure is well developed here: there are numerous shops, yoga schools, spa salons and much more. The only thing the area lacks is beaches. All of them are located at a decent distance.

The hotel stock is represented by hotels of different levels. It won’t be difficult to find decent 5-star apartments here. There are a huge number of attractions located near the resort, which will allow you to diversify your leisure time and create an individual recreation program.

Bali resorts on the map

On this map I have marked all the described resorts.

Each resort in Bali has its own distinctive features. But they all offer excellent conditions for relaxation. Such an abundance of resort areas will allow you to choose the ideal place for your next vacation.