It’s not just the endless beaches or the tropical weather, but the way the island moves, that makes Bali truly something special. One minute you’re passing offerings on the street; the next, you’re in a café overlooking the surf with a coconut in hand. 

It’s laid-back but layered, with a rhythm shaped by tradition, ceremony and a slower pace that pulls you in. 

Aussies keep coming back for the short flight, the mix of the familiar and the new, and the sheer mix of where to stay. From breezy beach bungalows to jungle villas with infinity pools, in Bali, there are stays that suit all kinds of trips — whether you’re here to reset, celebrate or just ride the island wave for a while.

Where to stay in Bali

• Seminyak: Trendy and close to the beach. You’ve got rooftop bars, designer shops and villas with daybeds built for post-swim naps. Popular resorts include: The Seminyak Beach Resort and Spa, FuramaXclusive Ocean Beach Seminyak and Double-Six Luxury Hotel Seminyak
• Ubud: All jungle, no hustle. Think spa days, rice field walks and nights that end with herbal tea, not cocktails. Popular resorts include: Padma Resort Ubud, Bumi Muwa Ubud and Aurora House Ubud.
• Kuta and Legian: Beachy, budget-friendly neighbours that are full of energy. Big with families, first-timers, and anyone chasing the sun without the spending. Popular resorts include: Padma Resort Legian, Legian Beach Hotel and Bali Dynasty Resort.
• Canggu: Laid-back but lively, with great cafés, boutique shops and bars that spill onto the sand. Popular with younger travellers, creatives and anyone chasing that beach-meets-highly aesthetic brekkie lifestyle.
• Nusa Dua: Calm and classic. Gated resorts, soft sand, and room to stretch out — especially if you’ve got little ones in tow. Popular resorts include: Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali, Ayodya Resort Bali and Mulia Resort.

How much is Bali accommodation?

Bali’s long been known for its bang-for-buck — where your dollar can stretch from basic beach beds to private jungle villas with views for days. Prices jump during the dry season and Aussie school holidays, but there’s almost always a good deal going. Whether you’re after a simple surf shack in Kuta or a cliffside splurge in Uluwatu, you’ll find plenty of ways to stay (and save) here.

• Backpackers and hostels: From AU$15 per night. Ideal for solo travellers chasing sun, surf and a social vibe.
• Budget hotels and guesthouses: From AU$30 per night. Local-run stays with simple comforts, close to beaches, warungs and markets.
• Apartments and villas: From AU$60 per night. Perfect for longer trips or travelling with a crew — often with kitchens and private pools.
• Mid-range hotels: From AU$75 per night. Modern, well-equipped stays with extras like pools, day spas or on-site dining. A sweet spot for comfort, convenience and good value.
• Luxury resorts: From AU$200 per night. Private plunge pools, full-service spas, sunset yoga and fine dining with a view — a popular pick for honeymoons or milestone holidays.

Top-rated hotels in Bali

• The Udaya Resorts and Spa in Ubud: Thatched-roof suites, open-air bathtubs and a spa carved into the jungle. The kind of place where time slows down and your itinerary turns into “maybe later.”
• The Apurva Kempinski Bali in Nusa Dua: Luxe in all caps. Think multi-level suites, private pools, and a grand lobby that feels more palace than hotel. If you want everything dialled up, start here.
• Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach A beachfront boutique with bold interiors and local art in every room. You’re metres from the sand, but the pool, spa and restaurants make it hard to leave. 
• The Anvaya Beach Resort in Kuta: Family-sized rooms, a huge central pool and direct beach access. This is a resort that makes it easy — for parents, couples or anyone who likes everything within arm’s reach.
• ARTOTEL Sanur – Bali: Compact, clever and full of character. The rooms are on the smaller side, but you get rooftop cocktails, bold design and a quieter coastal base away from the crowds (and at a lower price).

Tips for finding the perfect accommodation in Bali

• Pick your pace, then your place: Want to wake up to jungle birds or beach waves? Stay central if you’re chasing beach bars and boutique shops (Seminyak’s a classic), or head inland for spa days and rice fields (Ubud hits different). Bali feels small — but each area’s got its own thing going on.
• Dry season is the busiest season: July and August bring blue skies — and higher prices. If you don’t mind a bit of tropical drizzle, May, June and September are quieter, cheaper, and still perfect for pool time.
• Know what matters to you — and filter the rest: A villa with a private pool? Somewhere with air con and mozzie nets? Breakfast delivered so you don’t have to face the world before coffee? Aussies come to Bali for all kinds of reasons. Use Traveloka’s filters to find stays that match your must-haves, not someone else’s wishlist.
• Check the extras: Some places throw in airport pickups, massage credits or free afternoon tea. Others charge for beach towels and toast. Always worth a quick scan of what’s included before you book.
• Get in early for the good stuff: Bali’s no secret — and the best stays don’t sit around. If there’s a villa you’ve bookmarked, or a spot that’s got the exact setup you’re after, book it before someone else does.

Not sure what to do once you land? Check out our guide to spending a week in Bali