Discover the best of Bali, Indonesia’s own Garden of Eden. From pristine white- and black-sand beaches to endless lush jungles, this tropical island has long-earned its reputation as a paradise on Earth. However, Bali’s vibrant scenery isn’t the only reason it’s stood the test of time as a traveller haven, thanks to its rich Hindu heritage, exemplified by its variety of temples and cultural celebrations. Whether you’re seeking a quiet retreat, a luxury stay, or a wild night out, we’ll go over the best places to stay in Bali for every type of holiday.

***Feeding the koi at Tirta Gangga Water Palace***

Although Indonesia was a Dutch colony until the mid-20th century, Bali has grown leaps and bounds ever since, swiftly becoming the most visited island in the world’s largest archipelago. These days, Bali welcomes millions of visitors per year, and despite rampant overtourism, still offers a wide range of accommodation, such as backpacker hostels, remote bungalows, and all-inclusive resorts. Depending on your vacation needs, some regions might work better for your itinerary than others, so read on to find your perfect destination!

CENTRAL BALI: THE CULTURAL HEART OF THE ISLAND

When you imagine Bali, visions of emerald rice terraces, ancient temples, and jungle swings likely come to mind, and Central Bali more than delivers in those aspects. Anchored by Ubud, the island’s cultural capital, travellers can expect peaceful mornings overlooking misty valleys where traditional dance performances, artisan workshops, wellness retreats, and centuries-old Hindu ceremonies remain part of everyday life. Considered the perfect place to stay for first-time visitors due to its cultural heritage and proximity to lavish landscapes, the region is also one of the best for hiking, rafting, and photography. While there are no beaches in Central Bali, there are plenty of waterfall to dip in, plus its natural and architectural elements make it an unbeatable base for the uninitiated.

Ubud: Bali's Cultural Heart for First-Time Visitors

Commonly considered Bali's cultural and artistic heart, Ubud is beloved for the blend of traditional dance performances, wood carving workshops, silver craftsmanship classes, and wellness retreats on offer. The jungle-nestled town has long been a centre for Balinese Hindu traditions and ceremonial life while hosting a plethora of famous attractions, such as the Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung), Saraswati Temple, and Blanco Renaissance Museum.

Other natural highlights in the area include the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a nature reserve housing over a thousand macaques. Go hiking along Campuhan Ridge Walk, try whitewater rafting on the Ayung River, or get spiritual at the Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah), a hidden gem amongst a treasure trove of other jewels.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Ubud Royal Palace
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Saraswati Temple
Campuhan Ridge Walk
Elephant Cave
Blanco Renaissance Museum

Best suited for: First-time visitors, culture lovers, couples, wellness enthusiasts, and photographers.

Tegalalang: Home to Bali's Most Iconic Rice Terraces

For centuries, Tegalalang has been synonymous with Bali's traditional subak irrigation system, a UNESCO-recognized practice that reflects the community-based rice cultivation and Balinese philosophy. As the home of Bali’s most emblematic rice terraces, the area attracts a variety of travellers from influencers on the hunt for viral content to honeymooners seeking romantic escapades.

If you’re not afraid of heights, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces (AKA Ceking Rice Terraces) also host several high-flying swings where visitors soar above jungle valleys and river gorges. Just make sure to arrive right after sunrise to avoid the crowds. Afterwards, why not walk through the area’s aromatic coconut plantations, visit Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu (an 11th-century Hindu temple), or cleanse yourself at Sebatu Holy Water Spring? Either way, you’re in for a treat!

Famous monuments & attractions:

Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu
The Fire Flies Garden
Sebatu Holy Water Spring
A cornucopia of Bali swings

Best suited for: Photographers, honeymooners, and first-time visitors.

Tampaksiring: Bali's Spiritual Centre for Sacred Temples and Holy Springs

Revered as one of Bali's holiest districts, Tampaksiring is deeply connected to Balinese Hindu traditions and its royal history. Pay a visit to Istana Tampaksiring, the Presidential Palace, or tour a luwak coffee plantation, supposedly the richest blend in the world. Nestled among Tampaksiring’s abundant jungle landscapes are several famous Hindu temples, including Tirta Empul Temple and Gunung Kawi Temple. Many of these holy sites also provide purification pools where visitors can bathe in the sacred springs filled with holy water. If you’re looking for a spiritual cleanse, you’ll definitely be in the right place.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Tirta Empul Temple
Gunung Kawi Temple
Istana Tampaksiring
Candi Tebing Gunung Kawi
Cantik Luwak Coffee Plantation

Best suited for: Spiritual travelers, history buffs, coffee lovers, and photographers.

***Aerial view of the Hanging Gardens of Bali***

Payangan: A Romantic Jungle Retreat for Luxury Escapes

Situated in the tranquil highlands to the north of Ubud, Payangan is renowned for its opulent jungle resorts sprinkled among traditional Balinese villages. Bustling with bamboo forests and rice terraces alike, this area is the perfect escape from crowds while still offering lavish accommodation where you can live in the lap of luxury as you soak in an infinity pool overlooking the rainforest.

If you don’t mind splashing out, stay at the iconic Hanging Gardens of Bali, a Feng Shui-inspired resort famous for its lavish architecture, scenic views and impeccable service. When you’ve had enough of the peaceful surroundings, catch a thrill by rafting down the Ayung River or visit U Fun Field to go ziplining across the jungle. What more could you ask for?

Famous monuments & attractions:

Hanging Gardens of Bali
Ayung River (for rafting)
U Fun Field

Best suited for: Honeymooners, luxury travellers, and wellness enthusiasts.

Bangli: A Mountainous Refuge Perfect for Adventurous Hikers

Fun fact: Bali is divided into eight governmental bodies referred to as regencies, such as Gianyar (home to Ubud) and Badung (packed with tourist hubs like Seminyak). While Bangli might be the only one without a coastline, the region excels in preserving local customs throughout its mountain villages, connecting North and Central Bali. Its remote location makes it perfect for escaping crowds, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in its natural beauty. In fact, Bangli boasts everything from bamboo and pine forests to active volcanoes and crater lakes, as well as ancient villages of the Bali Aga people.

Start the day by hiking Mount Batur (standing 1717 metres) to watch the sunrise over the volcanic landscape or opt for a jeep tour through black lava fields to avoid any physical strain. Alternatively, you can also try a sunrise boat ride across the nearby Lake Batur, Bali’s largest body of water, and stop to visit Trunyan Village, where their dead are laid to rest in the open air according to local practices. Next, marvel at the scenery of Ulun Danu Batur Temple, a Hindu water temple dedicated to the goddess of the lake. Finally, for the perfect way to end the day, why not go for a soak in a natural hot spring for a bit of rejuvenation? Your tired muscles will be sure to thank you!

Famous monuments & attractions:

Mount Batur
Lake Batur
Penglipuran Village and Bamboo Forest
Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Ulun Danu Batur Temple
Tibumana Waterfall
Glagalinggah Pine Forest (Hutan Pinus)
Kehen Temple
Toya Devasya Hot Spring
Goa Giri Campuhan Waterfall
Batur Natural Hot Spring
Trunyan Village
Air Panas Angseri

Best suited for: Adventure seekers, avid hikers, and travellers seeking authentic stays.

Sidemen: An Authentic Escape into the Untamed Countryside

While overtourism and corresponding overdevelopment often plague more popular swathes of Central Bali, Sidemen is often lauded as "what Ubud used to be," a region that preserves the local identity tied to its farming communities. Here, weaving, rice cultivation, and temple ceremonies continue to shape daily life while visitors are still treated to the island’s most well-known sights, including breathtaking rice terraces, epic waterfalls, and quiet, traditional villages. Couples on a romantic getaway would do well to stay at one of the many adults-only resorts, whereas backpackers can go glamping at Natya River Sidemen, a well-maintained campground. No matter your budget, Sidemen provides all travellers with the perfect countryside retreat without the hordes.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Sidemen Rice Terraces
Gembleng Waterfall
Yellow Bridge over Tukad Yeh Unda River
Traditional weaving workshops
Sidemen swing

Best suited for: Slow travellers, backpackers, photographers, and honeymooners.

Sukawati: Bali's Artistic Mecca for Traditional Crafts

As one of Bali's most notable artistic communities, Sukawati is highly regarded for its craftsmen who produce an assortment of traditional goods, like paintings and wood carvings, making it a shopper’s paradise. Sukawati’s home to Sukawati Art Market, a long-established trading hub where local artisans and merchants sell everything from clothes and jewelry to handmade souvenirs.

Sukawati is also arguably the most family-friendly area of the island, offering a variety of activities for children, such as the Bali Zoo, which houses Asian elephants and African lions. You can also make a splash at a nearby waterfall (my top pick would be Tegenungan Waterfall thanks to its shallower pools) or build a black-sand castle at a local beach. Definitely stay in this area if you want to ensure your kiddos have as great a time as the adults do.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Sukawati Art Market
Tegenungan Waterfall
Bali Zoo
Pura Puseh Desa Batuan Temple
Bali Bird Park
Pantai Purnama Beach
Kemenuh Butterfly Park
Patung Bayi Sukawati Statue
Sumampan Waterfall
Kubur Beach
Hidden Mini Zoo

Best suited for: Families, shopaholics, handicraft artisans, art lovers, animal lovers, and day-trippers.

SOUTH BALI: BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, LUXURY DIGS AND ISLAND VIBES

Whereas Central Bali might be known as the island’s cultural capital, South Bali is home to its actual capital, Denpasar, and is renowned for hosting some of the oldest resorts on the island. This cosmopolitan powerhouse is jam-packed with famous destinations, including Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and Uluwatu, each famous in its own right. Owing to decades of overdevelopment, South Bali offers something for every traveler, from opulent beachfront resorts and boutique shopping to world-class surfing and vibrant nightlife. Travellers seeking to relax on powdery white-sand beaches overlooking the Indian Ocean will be spoilt for choice, but just be aware of the ever-present crowds and traffic congestion that come along with staying in Bali’s most popular area.

Best suited for: Beach lovers, luxury travelers, families, surfers, foodies, partygoers, and digital nomads.

***Sunset over Seminyak Beach at Sunset Beach Club***

Seminyak: Bali's Luxury Playground for Beach Clubs and Boutique Hotels

Seminyak might have had humble beginnings as a quiet village, but these days, the region is hailed as Bali’s premier beach destination, complete with extravagant villas, swanky beach clubs, high-end boutiques, and fine dining options. If you’re yearning for the royal treatment, there are plenty of all-inclusive resorts prepared to pamper you like a prince/princess. The area is also loaded with various entertainment venues, from interactive dinner shows to multi-level commercial centres, meaning there’s always more to do. Book a sunbed or table at the nearest beach club to be lavished with succulent libations and live performances, often into the wee hours of the night. Whether you’re a beach lover or partyhound, you’ll definitely be in your element.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Seminyak Beach
Petitenget Temple
Potato Head Beach Club
Kayu Aya Beach
Seminyak Village Shopping Centre
Le Petit Chef Dinner Show
Double Six Beach
Sunset Beach Club
Bali Pet Nirvana
Trans Studio Mall Bali

Best suited for: Beach lovers, luxury travellers, couples, foodies, and partygoers.

Kuta Utara (North Kuta): An Upmarket Utopia for Digital Nomads

This district is one of the most famous in Bali, and for good reason, as it encompasses popular locales such as Berawa, Kerobokan, and parts of Canggu, blending traditional Balinese living with modern cafés, co-working spaces, and upscale accommodations. While most of the region began as a peaceful farming village, Kuta became Bali's tourism epicenter during the 1970s, helping to establish the island as an international destination in large part due to the surfing community.

Canggu (pronounced chang-goo), in particular, has transformed into Bali's digital nomad and surfing capital while still retaining pockets of rice paddies and Hindu temples. Nevertheless, vibes matter more than monuments here, and the area has long been both reviled and revered for its boisterous nightlife, which often makes headlines for its over-the-top extravagances. Still, no matter if you’re trying to catch a surf break or trying to crowd-surf at a beach club, you’re bound to have an unforgettable time.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Berawa Beach
Kuta Beach
Finns Beach Club
Batu Belig Beach
Echo Beach
Batu Bolong Beach
Atlas Beach Club
Legian Beach
Beachwalk Shopping Center
Waterbom Bali Waterpark
Bali Bombing Memorial Site

Best suited for: Beach lovers, remote workers, budget travelers, surfers, and partygoers.

***Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple***

Kuta Selatan (South Kuta): The Best Destination for Luxury Resorts

Whereas Seminyak might be where la créme de la créme go to see and be seen, Kuta Selatan works best for travellers who value quiet luxury and privacy over spectacle. Located largely on a limestone peninsula with dramatic clifftops, this area sports some of Bali's most photogenic coastlines, resplendent with panoramic ocean views which give way to extraordinary sunsets.

As home to Bali's largest luxury tourism district, South Kuta is bursting with resorts offering all-inclusive family deals and adults-only packages. Moreover, the peninsula is the ideal place to be for watersports since travellers can partake in an array of activities, like surfing or snorkeling over colourful coral reefs. Thrill seekers should also try paragliding or watching a fire dance performance at Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali's six most sacred spiritual sites. Cap the day off with a cocktail at a beach club while the dying sun’s rays wash the Indian Ocean in a kaleidoscope of hues. Who knows, you might just be tempted to snap a photo as a memento. Say cheese!

Famous monuments & attractions:

Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Fire Dance
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Savaya Bali Nightclub
Sundays Beach Club
Pandawa Beach
Nusa Dua Beach
Melasti Beach
White Rock Beach Club
Gunung Payung Beach
Mai Main Playground by Wonderspace
Suluban Beach
Karang Boma Cliff Viewpoint
Nunggalan Beach
Dreamland Beach
Balangan Beach
SAKA Museum

Best suited for: Luxury travelers, families, honeymooners, surfers, foodies, and sunset seekers.

Denpasar: Discover Bali's Underrated Capital

Go beyond the tourist trail and venture to Denpasar, Bali’s administrative capital and cultural hub. Fortunately for you, the metropolis is often bypassed for more popular destinations around the island – making for fewer crowds – despite consisting of pristine beaches, lively markets, and gorgeous temples. Catch authentic glimpses into everyday Balinese life as you wander through the city, sightseeing famous landmarks like the Bali Museum and the intricately-carved Bajra Sandhi Monument.

Staying in Denpasar Selatan (South Denpasar) is the best choice for any family since the region is filled with enough entertainment options to keep your kids occupied from dawn until dusk. Spend the day at a theme park or water park, learn about marine conservation at interactive institutes, or discover more about Balinese culture at performing arts centres. South Denpasar also encompasses the serene seaside community of Sanar, one of the island’s oldest resort areas, along with several other white-sand shorelines. Moreover, as the island’s capital, Denpasar is generally well-connected to other areas across Bali, so it’s easier to get around, and its proximity to Bali’s main airport makes for a quicker commute without having to miss out on any amenities.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Ngurah Rai International Airport
Bajra Sandhi Monument
Bali Museum
Turtle Conservation And Education Center
Sanur Beach
Le Mayeur Museum
Kertalangu Cultural Village
Werdhi Budaya Art Centre
Mertasari Beach
Trans Studio Theme Park Bali
Big Garden Corner
Ardha Candra Open Theater
Karang Beach
CitraLand Waterpark
Benoa Harbour
AeroXSpace Adventure Bali
Bali Exotic Marine Park
Upside Down World Bali
Mangrove Conservation Forest

Best suited for: Cultural enthusiasts, bargain hunters, families, slow travellers and history buffs.

Nusa Penida Island: Southern Bali’s Best-Kept Secret

Though most visitors might consider Bali to be a single island, the main island is merely the largest of the cluster, with several offshoots scattered all around its coastline. Nusa Penida is one of the most unforgettable sister-islands thanks to its jaw-dropping natural landscapes and strong spiritual traditions stretching back centuries.

Marvel at its striking limestone cliffs or dive beneath the turquoise waves to uncover vivid coral reefs and squadrons of manta rays. You can even island-hop to the nearby Ceningan Island (which has its own Blue Lagoon) or Lembongan Island (home to a lush mangrove forest). If you’re looking for island vibes without the crowds and upselling, staying on one of the smaller islands is your best bet.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Kelingking Beach
Diamond Beach
Manta Point
Broken Beach
Goa Giri Putri Temple
Angel's Billabong
Crystal Bay Beach
Tembeling Beach and Forest
Gamat Bay Beach
Lembongan Island
Ceningan Island

Best suited for: Divers, snorkellers, nature lovers, and photographers.

EAST BALI: AUTHENTIC VILLAGES AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS

Often overlooked in favor of Bali's southern shores, East Bali rewards travelers willing to leave the beaten path with dramatic volcanic scenery, grand royal palaces, picturesque fishing villages, and an overall slower pace of life. Overshadowed by the majestic Mount Agung, the island's highest volcano, East Bali is a region rich in history and traditional Balinese practices where visitors can dive around unblemished coral reefs or simply unwind among rice fields far from crowds. Although lacking in nightlife options comparatively, the area offers an authentic glimpse into the island's vibrant heritage while remaining one of its quietest corners, brimming with elegant water palaces and black-sand beaches.

Amlapura: East Bali’s Former Royal Capital Full of Impeccable Palaces

The island of Bali is divided into 8 regencies, with Amlapura acting as the capital of the most eastern, Karangasem. It was also the former royal seat of power of East Bali and retains much of its aristocratic identity to this day, showcased by the eye-catching architecture popping up between rice fields as Mount Agung looms in the background.

Tour all of its timeless palaces, such as Taman Ujung Water Palace or Karangasem Royal Palace, which interweave Balinese, neoclassical European, and Chinese influences. Although constructed in a similar style, my personal favourite is Tirta Gangga Water Palace, owing to its incomparable atmosphere and copious schools of giant koi fish, which you can feed for added good luck. Carp-e diem!

Famous monuments & attractions:

Karangasem Royal Palace
Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Taman Ujung Water Palace
Bukit Cinta Viewpoint
St. Francis Of Asisi Catholic Church

Best suited for: History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, photographers, and cultural travelers.

Manggis: A Serene Seaside Gateway to Bali's Nearby Islands

Manggis is a peaceful coastal community situated in Bali’s southeast, known for preserving quiet village life while serving as the gateway to Lombok, Bali’s rival island, and the Gili Islands due to its extensive port. Though boasting unblemished shorelines, Manggis is far removed from the crowds at other tourist hubs, so you can enjoy excellent snorkelling or coral-reef diving in utter tranquility.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Blue Lagoon Beach
Pelabuhan Padang Bai Port
Candidasa Beach
Virgin Beach
Candidasa Lotus Lagoon
Sang Hyang Ambu Temple
Bias Tugel Beach

Best suited for: Beach lovers, divers, snorkellers, and island-hoppers.

Kubu: An Aquatic Paradise for Avid Divers and Snorkelers

As one of Bali's quieter fishing communities, traditional values remain central to daily life in Kubu, where the coastal area was equally shaped by Mount Agung's volcanic history. Black lava beaches abound, along with stunning savannahs eclipsed by the island’s highest mountain. Apart from various viewpoints, Kubu also sports a few shipwrecks, with the most notable being the USAT Liberty, a US cargo ship sunk by the Japanese during World War II. If you’re looking to get dive-certified, Kubu has plenty of diving resorts to ensure you have the most memorable experience while under the sea.

Famous monuments & attractions:

USAT Liberty Shipwreck
Kubu Reef
Savana Tianyar
Boga Wreck
Savana Nusu
Tulamben Kubu Beach

Best suited for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers, divers, and photographers.

North Bali: Endless Waterfalls, Splendid Wildlife, and Hidden Gems

While on one hand, Ubud and Kuta might feel like tourist traps teeming with crowds, North Bali feels like a different island altogether. Escape northward to take advantage of the cooler temperatures, fewer hordes, and unspoilt mountain refuges which define this idyllic region. Nature lovers will definitely rejoice since the area is famous for its spectacular waterfalls, volcanic lakes, and black-sand beaches, along with chances to spot wild dolphins at sunrise.

Bali’s northernmost regency, Buleleng, is home to not only the island’s largest Buddhist monastery but also other noteworthy districts, like Banjuwedang and Gerokgak to the west (more on them in a bit). Given that it was once Bali’s administrative centre during the colonial era and a vital trading port, historic architecture proliferates the area, adding more cultural depth to any visit. Thus, travelers open to venturing beyond the overrun southern hotspots are in for a more authentic atmosphere and some of Bali's most stunning natural scenery, even if the north is a bit more secluded.

Sukasada: Chasing Waterfalls Through Bali's Lush Highlands

Hikers, strap your boots up and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime in Sukasada, situated in the island’s emerald-hued highlands. Trek across the forested landscapes as you stumble upon waterfall after waterfall, with the region hosting more than a dozen. Take a dip in any of these idyllic watering holes before continuing on to the next, far removed from the congested traffic of South Bali.

If you truly crave to become one with nature, you can even camp alongside Buyan Lake, one of a twin set, before finding a vantage point where you can spot its smaller sibling, Tamblingan Lake, in the backdrop. For just a hint of civility, seek some spiritual insight at Ulun Danu Buyan Temple, a lakeside Hindu temple adorned with botanical gardens and wildlife, where you can also rent a boat. Sukasada is the perfect place to fall off the grid while getting in touch with your inner self.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Ulun Danu Buyan Temple
Gitgit Waterfall
Aling-Aling Waterfall
Bali Handara Gate
Twin Lakes Trekking Viewpoint
Wanagiri Hidden Hill
The Blooms Garden
Wana Ayu Waterfall
Banyumala Waterfall
Jembong Waterfall
Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall
Blue Lagoon (Sambangan)
Candikuning Waterfall
Pucak Manik Waterfall
Dedari Waterfall
Bali Farm House
Tirta Buana Waterfall
Alamandaoe Water Park

Best suited for: Nature and wildlife enthusiasts, families, road trippers, hikers, trekkers, and photographers.

Banjar: The Perfect Place to Relax in Hot Springs and Buddhist Sanctuaries

Buddhists can take heart since this coastal region is unique for housing, Brahmavihara-Arama Temple, Bali's largest Buddhist monastery in an overwhelmingly Hindu island. Standing 300 metres above sea level and spanning 4 acres, this divine complex should not be missed, especially by travellers in search of spiritual enlightenment. After finding your Zen and relaxing your mind, you can also relax your body at a thermal spring or hike through rice terraces to get in touch with nature. The area also sports a theme park and waterpark for visitors travelling with children yet also looking to rub shoulders with the locals. How’s that for a family vacation?

Famous monuments & attractions:

Brahmavihara-Arama Temple
Banjar Hot Springs
Munduk rice terraces
Krisna Funtasticland Theme Park
Krisna Water Sports Waterpark
Melanting Waterfall
Munduk Waterfall

Best for: Wellness enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, and slow travellers.

Kubutambahan, Sekumpul & Lemukih: Havens for Traditional Stays in Total Tranquillity

For travellers yearning for an authentic Balinese holiday, the northern districts of Kubutambahan, Sekumpul & Lemukih are the perfect trifecta where you can disconnect from society back home and learn firsthand about the local culture. They’re also directly connected latitudinally, with Kubutambahan starting along the coast and Lemukih ending at the limit for the Buleleng Regency, leading into Central Bali. The former is actually home to the most northern point of the island, along with one of the region’s most stunning temples, Maduwe Karang.

All three areas cater to travellers looking for untamed landscapes, from rural coastlines to quiet countryside, as well as relaxation, since there are plenty of natural hot springs and waterfalls to go around. Sekumpul, the smallest of the three, is surprisingly the site of the tallest and biggest waterfall in Bali, towering 80 metres (262 feet) tall. Bathe beside locals who’ve also come for some rejuvenation or try a homestay to gain insight into daily Balinese life. Go off-the-grid and get into the real Balinese island vibes.

Famous monuments & attractions:

The Most Northern Point in Bali
Maduwe Karang Temple
Sekumpul Waterfall
Air Sanih Natural Springs
Carat Waterfall
Lemukih Waterslide & Waterfall
Fiji Waterfall
Lemukih Dalem Temple
Bengbengan Waterfall
Pura Desa Sekumpul Temple

Best suited for: Nature lovers, hikers, trekkers, wellness enthusiasts, slow travellers, backpackers, and culture lovers.

WEST Bali: Bali's Last Great Wilderness

If your dream vacation involves snorkeling over colourful coral reefs, hiking through flourishing forests, or leaving the world behind entirely, West Bali is hard to pass up. Predominantly made up of the Buleleng and Jembrana Regencies to the north and south, respectively, each region provides a unique range of experiences from ecotourism to deep-sea diving. For nature lovers, there’s West Bali National Park, spanning 190 sq. kilometres (73 sq. miles). The southern shores also offer a plethora of surfing opportunities across their endless coastlines, which are sure to be devoid of the congestion and crowds of South Bali. While tourism infrastructure is more limited than elsewhere on the island, that's precisely what makes West Bali such a rewarding destination for adventurous travelers, especially those conscious of the impact of overtourism in other parts of Bali.

Gerokgak: A Nature Lover’s Coastal Paradise

Dominating the western half of the Buleleng Regency, Gerokgak is arguably the most underrated place in Bali for its biodiversity alone. As home to West Bali National Park, this remote region protects much of the island's remaining wilderness, including mangroves, tropical forests, and dry savannahs similar to those in Africa. Birdwatchers and animal lovers should also be delighted since the park also houses the endangered Bali starling and the rare Balinese black monkey, along with wild boar, menjangan deer, and monitor lizards.

Gerokgak is also recognised internationally for its marine conservation and reef restoration programs, no more so than on Menjangan Island right off the coast. The sister-island is generally regarded as one of Indonesia's top diving and snorkeling destinations, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and thriving coral gardens teeming with marine life. Towns such as Sumberkima and Banyuwedang have a range of accommodation from hostels and homestays to private villas and luxury resorts, meaning no matter your budget, you don’t have to miss out on these natural gems.

Famous monuments & attractions:

West Bali National Park (Taman Nasional Bali Barat)
Menjangan Island
Pemuteran Beach
Banyuwedang Hot Springs
Biorock Reef Restoration Project (Pemuteran)
Turtle Hatchery Project
Sumberkima Waterfall
Grokgak Dam
Pulaki Temple
Melanting Temple

Best suited for: Ecotourists, divers, snorkellers, birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, hikers, trekkers, families, and off-the-beaten-path explorers.

***A surfer riding a wave at Medewi Beach***

Jembrana: A Well-Connected Surf Haven on the Wild West Coast

To the south shore of West Bali lies the Jembrana Regency, a quiet agricultural district famous among surfers. It’s also the point of entry for most travellers arriving from the west by ferry since it sports one of the largest ports on the island in Gilimanuk, where on the clearest days, you can see straight across the Bali Strait to the island of Java, Indonesia’s administrative heart. As a farming community, you can visit rice fields or coconut groves before trekking up to Mount Merbuk, an active volcano. If you came to Bali specifically to catch some waves, look no further than beach towns like Negara, Pengambengan, and Puluka, where surfing is always the special of the day without the upcharge of South Bali.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Medewi Beach
Baluk Rening Beach
Mount Merbuk
Kurma Asih Sea Turtle Conservation Center
Nirwana Garden Park
Wisata Gelar River
Perancak Beach
Sidi Tapa Waterfall
Tuwed Mangrove Park
Yeh Buah Waterfall
Tembles Beach

Best suited for: Surfers seeking fewer crowds, slow travellers, trekkers, and backpackers.

Tabanan: Where Black-Sand Beaches, Rice Fields, and Wellness Go Hand-in-Hand

Although the Tabanan Regency is mostly a rural, farming region, it’s slowly becoming a favourite haven for travellers craving the proximity to Central and South Bali without the surcharge. The area hosts everything a first-time visitor could wish for: picturesque rice terraces, towering waterfalls, vibrant wildlife, thermal springs, surf-worthy shores, and scenic temples. In fact, Tanah Lot might be one of the most impressive Hindu temples as it’s perched on a rocky island, providing panoramic seaside views. If you’re in search of further spiritual enlightenment, the area hosts a bunch of wellness retreats and centres to help you unwind. Catch a glimpse of nirvana doing sunrise yoga on a black-sanded shoreline, like Balian or Kelating Beach, or find your bliss when you catch your perfect wave. Either way, you’ll be at peace.

Famous monuments & attractions:

Tanah Lot
Balian Beach
Belimbing Rice Terraces
Singsing Waterfall
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Yeh Hoo Waterfall
Belulang Hot Springs
Soka Beach
Nuanu Creative City Attraction Park
Kelating Beach
Alas Kedaton Temple & Animal Sanctuary
Kedungu Beach
Wahana Wisata Sambhrama Ashram
Bali Butterfly Park (Tabanan)
Yeh Gangga Beach
Babahan Rice Terraces
Pasut Beach

Best suited for: Beach lovers, surfers seeking fewer crowds, wellness enthusiasts, families, and bargain hunters.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Still unsure where to stay? Here's a quick recap:

For culture and wellness: Central Bali
For beaches and nightlife: South Bali
For authentic villages and history: East Bali
For waterfalls and wildlife: North Bali
For diving and ecotourism: West Bali

***Vibing at Tegalalang Rice Terraces***

While it can’t be denied that overtourism has certainly hit some regions of Bali like a freight train, many areas remain largely unchanged, providing peeks into traditional local life. Whether you prefer to escape the crowds and invest in sustainable tourism via homestays, or you’d rather splash out poolside at a rocking resort, Bali goes above and beyond to provide accommodation for all sorts of travellers. Furthermore, there are several additional gems that this article wouldn’t be complete without mentioning, and though they might be much more remote, they’re all worth exploring if you have the time.

For trekkers planning to hike to Sempukal Waterfall in North Bali, make sure to slide down Lemukih Waterslide, situated on a plateau over Lemukih Waterfall (also visit the adjacent Fiji Waterfall). The natural slopes stretch for 45 metres down a series of sections, each ending in a swimming basin, and close by, you can even go cliff-jumping if you dare (with a rubber tire is best)! For less adventurous travellers, Lovina Beach not only has scenic views of the Bali Sea but also has some of the best local seafood on the island, plus several sailing operators advertising dolphin-watching tours. In Central Bali, the Gianyar Regency hosts some of the most spectacular waterfalls, including Taman Sari, Goa Rang Reng, Bandung, and Suwat, so you’ll have lots of places for a relaxing soak. Art lovers and culture enthusiasts should also visit the Rudana Museum & Fine Art Gallery to check out works by contemporary Indonesian artists.

***Welcoming the dawn at Lempuyang Temple***

To the east, Karangasem Regency boasts Bali’s most iconic landmark, Lempuyang Temple, a complex made of seven temples serving as one of the holiest sites on the island. The site is especially popular for the "Gates of Heaven," an open gateway that stunningly frames Mount Agung in the backdrop. However, the crown for the largest temple in Bali goes to the nearby Besakih Temple, also known as the "Mother Temple of Bali" for its immense structure. Perched 1000 metres (3000 feet) above sea level on the southwestern ridge of Mount Agung, the extensive complex covers 20 hectares, encompassing as many as 80 separate temples divided down several terraced levels (so make sure to wear comfy shoes). Regardless if you’re in Bali for a week or a lifetime, you’ll never run out of places to stay to feel right at home.

Write me when you get there!

M

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