Are you planning your first trip to Bali in 2025 and looking for the best places to stay? I’ve got you covered. This blog post is all about the best places to stay in Bali for first-timers!
I just returned from my first trip to the Island of the Gods, and I’m excited to share the best places to experience the island’s diverse sides: fun, spiritual, authentic, and beachy 🥥🌴🌺.
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What to Expect From a First Trip to Bali?
Since returning from my trip, I’ve often been asked, “So, what is Bali like?” or “Is it worth going?”
I loved everything about Bali: the good and what some might consider the bad.
Bali is for you if you love being surrounded by nature. And by nature, I mean all kinds because you can’t expect to sleep in the jungle without encountering a big spider or a gecko—that’s just part of the experience.

Bali is for you if you love Asia and the way spirituality still holds such a special place in people’s lives.
Red sandstone temples, religious rituals, and Canang Sari offerings are everywhere, from Seminyak to Ubud. In Bali, even an ordinary house seems like a temple. Sometimes, you just have to get lost because you never know what’s hidden in a corner.

Bali is also for you if you appreciate the imperfect side of Asia. While there’s beauty in Bali, poverty is evident in the broken streets that flood with rain, the people begging, and the trash lining the streets.
This is also Bali; all you can do is tip more generously than you might elsewhere and be careful where you put your trash.
Even in the Gili Islands, a tropical paradise by definition, I ended up walking shoeless on the flooded streets, but again, it’s just part of the experience.

Bali’s food is an adventure that can make you sick if you’re not used to it, but its Indonesian flavors are bold and comforting.
Finally, Bali is for you if you love being surrounded by smiles and warmth. The Balinese people embody the most peaceful way of life, never rushing, even if you’re running late—because why would they? They live in Bali, where time seems to flow at its own pace.
1. Seminyak: Beach Lifestyle, Clubs & Shopping
Seminyak is the perfect place to start your Bali adventure. Its proximity to the airport makes it ideal for your first few nights.
This busy area is perfect for those eager to experience the Bali beach lifestyle. In Seminyak, you can spend your days on beautiful beaches and enjoy rosy sunsets with a cocktail in hand.

While it’s one of the most touristy areas in Bali, you can still discover those small moments of authenticity. Waking up early allows you to witness Hindu locals crafting their colorful Canang Sari offerings to their supreme God or to experience the calmness of Seminyak at sunrise, with a subtle scent of incense in the air.
Best Hotel in Seminyak: Ikosharold Suites
Located just a short walk from Seminyak’s beautiful beaches, Ikosharold Suites is the perfect hotel for a few nights in the city. Its location makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area, including beaches, restaurants, and shopping spots.
The hotel’s highlight is the stunning pool and hot tub on the ground floor, available to guests anytime. The rooms have a cozy balcony, a soft queen-size bed, and a spacious gray-stone bathroom.

Now, If you’re the kind of person who starts dreaming about the hotel’s breakfast the night before, listen out! Here, I’ve had the best breakfast of my trip.
It’s a buffet-style breakfast with Western favorites like pastries and typical Indonesian food like Nasi Goreng. You can also have your eggs cooked to order.
Things to See in Seminyak: Petitenget Temple
There might not be much to see in Seminyak from a cultural perspective, but if you’re seeking a spiritual site in Seminyak’s lively atmosphere, head to the Petitenget Temple.
If you’ve already visited other temples in Bali, like Pura Tirta Empul, you’ll notice that Petitenget is smaller in scale and more straightforward in layout. However, it still offers a good example of Hindu architecture and is worth a visit if you don’t have the chance to explore other temples.
The temple can be explored in less than 20 minutes. There is no English signage inside to explain its history, so if you are interested, you should read about it before your visit.
You must have 50,000 IDR in cash for the entrance fee. You will also receive a sarong, which you must wear inside.
2. Bedugul: Temples, Nature & The Authentic Side of Bali
Bedugul is in the Tabanan Regency, in the north-central region of Bali, along the road between Denpasar and Singaraja.
This charming area is renowned for its three lakes. Lake Beratan is the main one, home to the magical Ulun Danu Temple, and Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan lie close to one another on the other side of the mountain.

As you drive from busier areas like Seminyak or Ubud, the landscape transforms dramatically: the busy scooter-filled streets give way to roads where traffic is nowhere to be found—in front of you only farmers transporting fresh fruits.
Rice fields become more frequent, and life seems to slow down, revolving around agriculture, fruit markets, and a more relaxed way of life.
Bedugul is the perfect place to spend at least one night immersing yourself in the authentic Balinese culture.
Best Hotel in Bedugul: Village Above The Clouds
If you dream of waking up to a rice field view and a sunrise you will never forget, you must book a bungalow at Village Above the Clouds.
Its six bungalows are nestled in a perfectly curated green garden adorned with flowers and the beautiful Andong Merah (the red plant you’ll often see in Bali) that I fell in love with.
At Village Above the Clouds, you’re surrounded by nature, and the only sound you’ll likely hear is the roosters waking you up early, just in time for the sunrise.

The bungalows have a simple interior design, surprisingly comfortable beds, and gray-stone bathrooms. Each bungalow has a large window, allowing guests to enjoy the views of the rice paddies from their beds.
You can also dine and have breakfast at the Village. Breakfast includes fresh-to-order staples like French toast, pancakes, omelets, coffee, and milk.
The highlight of our stay was the yoga class with Ninyoman, the lovely yoga teacher. At 7 a.m., she led a gentle yoga class for all levels, including stretching, some yoga poses, and relaxation.
Things to See In and Around Bedugul
Pura Ulun Danu
Pura Ulun Danu is perched on the shores of Lake Beratan. As the location suggests, the temple is dedicated to the Water Goddess Dewi Danu, with the lake being the island’s most vital water source.
Ulun Danu Temple is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area, primarily because of the enchanting views of the Temple that appear to float on the calm water of Beratan Lake.

However, this might not be the place for a peaceful, spiritual experience. The site is incredibly touristy and busy, especially in the afternoon.
The site features several tourist traps, including photo hops in traditional costumes, a small zoo where you can feed animals, and a noisy coffee shop. Unfortunately, I feel this detracts from the site’s magic.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Just a 34-minute drive from Bedugul, you’ll discover the stunning site of the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces.
Its beauty is truly astonishing. Unlike the touristy vibe at the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, you won’t see swings or bicycles suspended in the air here.

Instead, you’ll encounter a peaceful, expansive rice terrace stretching for kilometers, where real farmers work alongside their families, and kids enjoy a bath in the clear waters flowing directly from the jungle.
The vibrant green of the grass perfectly complements the deep red of the Andong Merah, creating a scene that’s almost impossible to leave or stop photographing.
3. Ubud: Art, Nature & Spirituality
In recent years, Ubud has become one of the main tourist areas in Bali. However, when the traffic during rush hour feels overwhelming, just a short walk will lead you to endless green rice fields.
Here, the only sounds are the chirping of cicadas and the distant buzz of Grab drivers delivering guests to the stunning villas scattered around.

Ubud is considered the artistic and spiritual heart of Bali. Although tourism has taken over the city, with stylish coffee shops and boutiques, you can still experience its rich traditions if you know where to look.
Here, dance performances light up the evenings at various sites, and it’s the kind of place where locals still wear traditional clothing and live lives closely connected to religious rituals.
During my time in Ubud, many temples were closed due to ongoing ceremonies, which showed how alive spirituality remains in the area.

Ubud is also the center of yoga practice in Bali, home to some of the best yoga retreats and studios.
Ubud is the perfect base if you plan many day trips in central Bali. From here, you can easily explore nearby temples and waterfalls. You’ll find many nice restaurants, like Zest Ubud and Cantina Rooftop, where the food quality is at the forefront.
Ubud isn’t for you if you’re looking for an active nightlife, as there are no major clubs or beach proximity.
Best Luxury Villa In Ubud: Candy Villa
If you dream of waking up to a private pool view surrounded by nature and the luxury of a wooden villa, you must check out Candy Villa in Ubud.
Candy Villa is a complex of 12 individual villas, offering one, two, or three-bedroom options, a well-furnished kitchenette, an elegant patio with a sofa, and an outdoor bathroom, surrounded by lush vegetation, with bath and stone shower, and (the highlight) a private pool.

This place represents the ultimate relaxation and luxury in Ubud. It is the perfect cocoon to return to after navigating the traffic-filled main street.
The complex is surrounded by rice terraces, offering a view you won’t easily forget, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Candy Villa also features a central area with a bar serving fresh, made-to-order breakfast. As if the private pools weren’t enough, here you’ll find an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by beautiful orchids and frangipani trees.
The staff perfectly embodies the calmness and patience of the Balinese people, and there’s always someone available to take you to the main Grab pickup area with their caddies, as taxis can only be called from there.
Best Things to Do in & Around Ubud
Ubud Monkey Forest
I’ve heard many opinions about the Monkey Forest in Ubud. While it’s definitely a tourist attraction, it’s still worth a visit if you’re in the area.
My suggestion is to move past the main areas near the entrance, where the monkeys are overstimulated by visitors and more accustomed to them.

Instead, venture deeper into the jungle, with fewer people and children.
This way, you can witness real-life family scenes, like monkeys fighting over a coconut or parents scolding their kids for getting into trouble. It’s fascinating and fun to see how much we look alike.
Leke Leke Waterfall
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path waterfall near Ubud, you should check out Leke Leke Waterfall.
It’s located around a one-hour drive from Ubud, and its secluded location, the jungle trail leading to it, and the dreamy view when you finally arrive make it one of the best in Bali.

Also, when I visited during the peak season, there was hardly anyone there, which suggests that this place is still a hidden gem.
The entrance fee is about $3, and if you’re dreaming of an adrenaline-filled yet not crowded swing experience, there’s one at the beginning of the Leke Leke waterfall trail.
You might not get that classic swing photo in a red dress, but if you’re into the thrill of swinging out over an endless jungle, this experience won’t disappoint.
4. Gili Trawangan: Island Vibe, Snorkeling & Relax
Gili Trawangan, the main island of the Gili Islands, is a great place to stay if you want to experience the most laid-back island lifestyle for a few days.
It’s where everyone gets around by bicycle wearing flip-flops, and cows and sheep cross the narrow roads undisturbed.

Instead of famous nightclubs, you’ll find cool beach clubs offering a tropical island aesthetic, fresh seafood, and live music performances.
It’s the ideal spot to relax under the sun on white sand beaches, snorkel, try out water sports, or take spontaneous day trips to the nearby islands of Gili Meno or Gili Air.
The hotels and accommodations here offer great value for money, especially during the low and shoulder seasons.
Best Bungalow Villa in Gili Trawangan: Absolute Villa
Absolute Villa might be the perfect fit if you’re searching for a simple yet incredibly vibey place to stay in Gili Trawangan.
As soon as you arrive, you’re welcomed by the stunning outdoor pool view, surrounded by pink frangipani and palm trees.
On either side of the pool, a row of five wooden bungalows with light blue accents create the ideal tropical setting. The laid-back atmosphere makes you feel like you’ve truly arrived in paradise.

Inside, the bungalows are simple, featuring air-conditioned rooms and an outdoor bathroom with a shower.
The attentive service from every staff member made our stay even more enjoyable. The highlight was the delicious breakfast they prepared fresh to order each morning.
Everything was tasty, but their homemade pancakes, with a side of fresh fruit, were exceptional.
Top Thing To Do in Gili Trawangan: Snorkeling
You can find plenty of services from Gili Trawangan, offering boat trips to Gili Meno and Gili Air. These trips are perfect for exploring famous snorkeling spots and the vibrant marine life off the islands.
Popular areas to explore include Turtle Point on the island’s east side, where you can swim alongside turtles, the mysterious underwater Nest sculptures, and the colorful coral gardens on the west side of Gili Meno.

Be sure your trip includes a stop at the Gili Meno baby turtle sanctuary, where you can see the tiniest baby turtles up close.
5. Uluwatu: Surf, Beaches & Sunsets
Uluwatu, located in the southernmost region of Bali, is the last of the best places for first-timers to stay.
Uluwatu is renowned as a fantastic surfing area, offering some of the best beaches and waves in Bali.

You’ll notice the stunning beach clubs with pools, luxurious hotels, and cliffside villas as soon as you arrive. That’s Uluwatu: surfing island vibe, high-end resorts, charming boutique shops, and higher-end properties. If you’re seeking that beach vibe, this is where you’ll find it.
However, it’s important to note that Uluwatu isn’t walkable. The landscape is dominated by dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea. You’ll typically need a scooter or a driver to get around, so plan accordingly.
Best Things to Do and See in Uluwatu
Surf Lesson at Padang Padang Beach
Padang Padang Beach is one of the most unique beaches in Uluwatu. You’ll reach it by descending a steep stairway through the cliffs, and when the slight stretch of white sand opens up before you, it’s simply stunning.
Here, you can book a surf instructor for an hour, and it’s a fantastic experience even if you’ve never taken a surf class before.

They’ll teach you the basics on the sand, and then you’ll head straight into the sea to try standing on your board and keeping your balance.
This is an experience you don’t want to miss if you’re in Uluwatu.
Uluwatu Temple
Pura Luhur Uluwatu, or Uluwatu Temple, is one of Bali’s six key temples. It is renowned for its location atop a cliff, with the ocean waves crashing 70m below. The best time to visit is just before sunset on a clear-sky day.
At 6 p.m., you can catch a traditional Kecak dance performance at an amphitheater near the temple.

Be prepared to meet some cheeky friends here: the monkeys. Unlike those in the Monkey Forest, these monkeys are a bit more playful, so keep an eye on your belongings, like sunglasses and phones.
I witnessed a sunglasses theft—it was fun to watch, but I would not want to experience it myself!
Many more places could be added to this list, like the Nusa Islands or the authentic village of Sidemen. However, I believe these are the best places for first-timers to stay in Bali, especially if you plan to stay there for around 10 days.
These five locations offer a chance to experience Bali’s diverse facets, leaving you with the right first impression. I hope this helps you plan your trip to Bali in 2025!
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DISCLAIMER: These suggestions are purely based on my experiences and are meant to provide helpful tips for your adventure. All information and instructions reflect my personal experiences and knowledge at the time of writing and may have changed since then. You must double-check all the details before your trip to ensure accuracy. The opinions and recommendations shared here are rooted in my unique journey through Asia.
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