The Island of Gods, Bali, located in Indonesia, is a tropical destination that has to be on the top of everyone’s bucket list.
Known as a popular destination for Australians for many years, Bali is now becoming a sought-after destination for people all around the world, including those in Europe and the USA.
There’s a reason why Bali is becoming so popular, its affordability, friendly locals, and breathtaking natural beauty.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Bali for the first time, when is the best time to visit, and what area should you stay in?
Best Time to Visit Bali
Like any other island paradise, Bali has warm weather year-round with two main seasons
- The dry season (April to September)
- The wet season (October to March)
During the wet season, it rains almost every day, however, only for a couple of hours, but the heat and humidity are at an all-time high during these months too. Because of the weather during the wet season, accommodation prices are very low.
Therefore, the best time to visit Bali is in the dry season. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and high prices (although they are still pretty low), don’t plan a trip to Bali between July and August. Instead, the best time to visit Bali is May, June, and September.
So, now that you know the best time to visit the Islands of the Gods, where is the best area to stay?
Kuta
As one of the first parts of the island to be developed for mass tourism, Kuta is arguably the most popular area in Bali.
This area of the island is famous for surfers with its long stretches of beaches and fantastic waves year-round.
Not only that, but it’s also a popular place for party lovers. It’s full of bars, clubs and beach clubs that throw spectacular parties.
There are plenty of affordable hotels and resorts to choose from in Kuta. However, if you aren’t a big fan of crowds, then this area isn’t the place for you. As being one of the most popular places to stay, it’s full of people.
Some of the best places to visit in Kuta include
- Waterbom Bali
- Kuta Beach
- Circus Waterpark
- Vihara Dharmayana Temple
- Kuta Beach Walking Street
Seminyak
The second-most well-known area in Bali is Seminyak, and rightly so! It’s very centrally located and has excellent beaches, clubs, beach clubs and plenty of accommodation to choose from.
Seminyak is known as the upmarket resort area of the island as it’s home to private villas and five-star resorts. It also boasts fantastic restaurants, cafes and shopping areas.
If you want to spend the day at the beach and then head to a club in the evening, Seminyak is the place to be!
Some of the best places to visit in Seminyak include
- Ku De Ta
- Potato Head Beach Club
- Mrs Sippy Beach Club
- La Plancha
- W Hotel
Canggu
Located next to Seminyak, Canggu is a great place to base yourself in Bali.
Quieter than Kuta and Seminyak but still bustling, Canggu is centrally located and is home to surf beaches, rice fields and fabulous restaurants and bars.
The area has grown over the last few years and is now a favourite place for digital nomads, ex-pats and tourists looking for the coolest place to stay in Bali.
In Canggu, you can expect trendy restaurants, cool cafes and awesome beach clubs, such as The Lawn, La Brisa and Finns.
While Kuta and Seminyak may be popular for partying, Canggu has a growing nightlife scene!
If you are looking for a place to stay that isn’t crowded like Kuta or Seminyak and want a more laid-back vibe, Canggu is the place for you.
Some of the best places to visit in Canggu include
- Finns Beach Club
- The Lawn
- Old Man’s
- Echo Beach
- Pura Tanah Lot Temple
Ubud
Located further north on the island of Bali is Ubud, one of the best places to stay on the island.
Unlike the other places on this list, Ubud is located in the forest and has a more authentic feel than Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu.
In Ubud, you will witness endless rice fields, temples, waterfalls, volcanoes and monkeys!
Known as the spiritual and cultural hub of Bali, Ubud is the place to go to get back to nature, meditate and learn more about the Balinese culture. There are plenty of wellness retreats, museums and historical sites in the area.
Some of the best places to visit in this wonderful part of Bali include
- Puri Saren Royal Palace
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Ubud Monkey Forest
- Ubud Markets
- Ayung River
Uluwatu
Finally, one of the best places to stay in Bali can be found on the southern end of the island, Uluwatu.
Famous for its clifftop temple, luxury resorts, and surf beaches, Uluwatu is a great place to stay to get away from the hustle and bustle of central Bali.
Home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Uluwatu is popular for surfers and relaxers alike looking to enjoy the surf and sand on the gorgeous beaches.
Because Uluwatu is quite far from the main centre of Bali, it’s pretty secluded, meaning you need transport to get around–such as a scooter.
While Uluwatu may be a more expensive option for hotels and resorts, it’s definitely worth it for the spectacular views and beaches in the area.
Some of the best places to visit in Uluwatu include:
- Uluwatu Temple
- Padang Padang Beach
- Oneeighty Beach Club
- Sundays Beach Club
- Bingin Beach
- Ulu Cliffhouse
Depending on the type of holiday you’re after, you can stay in the bustling Seminyak or head to the spiritual centre of Ubud or anywhere in between.
From staying right on the beach to views of rice fields from your room, there are so many unique places to stay in Bali.
