Curated Guide to Bali — Unique Stays and What to See
Click on the title of each section to discover a curated selection of unique places to stay in that area of Bali.
This post offers a general introduction to each region and highlights must-see spots, while the linked guides focus exclusively on handpicked stays.
No need to search elsewhere—these guides are crafted for independent travelers looking for soulful, small-scale stays full of character and charm.
No algorithms, no noise — just meaningful places to stay, chosen with care.
Key places to visit in South Bali
Uluwatu: Known for its dramatic sea cliffs, iconic surf breaks, and the legendary Uluwatu Temple perched above the ocean.
Canggu: A lively hub for creatives and digital nomads, where rice fields meet independent cafés, boutique shops, and surf-friendly beaches.
Seminyak: More polished and developed, Seminyak blends luxury stays with design-forward restaurants and a dynamic beach scene.
Sanur: A slower-paced coastal town with calm beaches, family-friendly energy, and a growing collection of soulful places to stay.
Jimbaran: Famous for its seafood dinners on the beach, Jimbaran offers a quieter alternative with a mix of traditional charm and upscale villas.
Click here to Discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay in South Bali
Ubud: The spiritual and cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by lush rice terraces, artisan villages, and vibrant markets. Ideal for wellness seekers and art lovers alike.
Tegallalang: Famous for its iconic tiered rice paddies, this village offers breathtaking landscapes and boutique guesthouses immersed in nature.
Penestanan: A laid-back creative enclave just outside Ubud, known for yoga retreats, organic cafés, and tranquil villas.
Sayan: Nestled along the Ayung River, Sayan offers luxury resorts and jungle hideaways with stunning views and a peaceful vibe.
Gianyar: A lively town rich in Balinese tradition, home to vibrant local markets and important temples, perfect for cultural immersion.
Click here to Discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay in Ubud & Central Bali
Key places to visit in North Bali
Lovina: Known for its calm black-sand beaches and early-morning dolphin watching, Lovina is a peaceful alternative to the busier south.
Munduk: A highland village surrounded by waterfalls, jungle trails, and clove plantations—ideal for slow travel and nature lovers.
Singaraja: Once the colonial capital of Bali, Singaraja offers a more local, historic feel with Dutch-influenced architecture and a laid-back coastal vibe.
Banjar: Home to the famous hot springs and a beautiful hilltop Buddhist monastery, Banjar is a quiet stop with spiritual energy.
Lake Buyan & Lake Tamblingan: Twin crater lakes surrounded by dense forest, perfect for off-the-grid stays and light adventure.
Click here to Discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay in North Bali
Key places to visit in East Bali
Sidemen: A lush valley of rice terraces and traditional villages, perfect for slowing down and soaking in Bali’s rural soul.
Amed: A laid-back coastal area known for its black-sand beaches, diving spots, and views of Mount Agung.
Tirta Gangga: Visit the iconic water palace surrounded by pools, fountains, and tropical gardens.
Candidasa: A peaceful seaside town ideal for exploring nearby temples, snorkeling spots, and traditional fishing villages.
Mount Agung: Bali’s highest volcano, sacred to locals and a magnet for adventurous spirits and sunrise hikes.
Click here to Discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay in East Bali
Key places to visit in West Bali
Balian: A surf-friendly beach town with bohemian energy, wild coastline, and a growing community of creatives escaping the busier south.
Medewi: Just up the coast, Medewi is known for its long mellow waves, rice paddies, and peaceful village life — a perfect spot to slow down.
Sumberkima: A serene area with panoramic views of mountains and sea, ideal for mindful escapes and off-grid villas.
Pemuteran: A quiet coastal village with calm waters and a strong community-led coral restoration project.
Menjangan Island: A small island within the national park offering world-class snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters.
West Bali National Park: Home to deer, monkeys, mangroves, and dense jungle—perfect for nature lovers and light adventurers.
Gilimanuk: The ferry port to Java, with local temples and everyday life far from the tourist trail.
Click here to Discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay in West Bali
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION
This selection is regularly updated, so be sure to revisit for new accommodations that I will be adding over time. If you find it helpful, please share it with lovers of design and low key luxury.
As always, in my guides, I strive to give visibility to independent, small accommodations with soul, character, and charm, catering to the design-oriented traveler who appreciates unique and creatively curated spaces, embracing the essence of slow travel and a mindful approach to hospitality.
If you know of any special places that you think should be added to this list, please contact us to consider including it.
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I only recommend places where I would stay myself. Some of the links in this guide are affiliate links. This means that if you click on them and book, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep this project going and continue curating beautiful places to stay around the world.
The photos are selected from the locations’ websites, their socials or from the platforms where they are advertised. If I know the photographer, I always mention it.