Destination guide

From relaxing beach time to days packed with culture

A mental image of Bali evokes turquoise waves, white beaches and lush rainforests. Aside from the scenery, a diverse array of cultural activities also abound. Explore Ubud's local markets or shop the luxury stores in Seminyak, because your days don't all need to be sleepily spent by the water (though they certainly can be!). Scour the seemingly secret beaches in Sanur and Legian, visit the Uluwatu Temple and hike among the hills for stellar views. Your hardest choice should be browsing Bali vacation rentals, trying to find the perfect option for your dream escape.

Things to do

It's not hard to see the island as an artistic muse

No visit to Bali is complete without a tour of the cliffside Uluwatu Temple. Along with incredible views out over the ocean, Uluwatu Temple is also 1 of Bali's most important temples. In addition to the other temples throughout the island, Bali is also full of art museums and galleries displaying local talent, both past and present. Visit Ubud's Neka Art Museum, Agung Rai Museum of Art or the Puri Lukisan Museum, the oldest museum in Bali. Alternatively, take a class for yourself at the Five Art Studio, also in Ubud.

Activities

Prepare yourself for sensory overload, in all the best ways

Bali is best explored with a local. Book a private tour on an ojek (motorbike taxi), a group tour via bemo (minibus) or hike through the forested volcanic mountains. Tour iconic rice paddies, lounge on sandy beaches or snorkel among colourful coral reefs. Bali is ideal for practising your yoga and meditation, with plenty of options for lessons. For nightlife and entertainment, head to Kuta, a popular and lively city to the south, or scout out 1 of the many street festivals. Consider Bali vacation rentals perched high in the hills for full panoramic views.

Weather

Prepare yourself for 1 of 2 seasons: wet or dry

Bali experiences 2 seasons: rainy and dry. Temperatures are consistent all year, with only humidity and precipitation changing. Consider the low seasons of January through April and October through November if you're on the hunt for a bargain, and don't mind a bit of rain. May through June and September are the shoulder seasons, when Bali vacation rentals are moderately priced, but the weather is more pleasant than the official off-peak season. High season happens in July, August and December, when it's best to plan ahead and book any extras well before arrival.

Natural highlights

A diverse destination full of life and colour

The diverse geography of Bali is 1 of many things that makes it such a special destination. Escape from the chaotic city of Kuta or the luxe destinations of Seminyak and Kerobokan, and go surfing at the rugged, craggy beaches to the south. Hop on a boat to 1 of the nearby, untouched islands, such as Nusa Lembongan, or simply laze away the day on any number of white, sandy beaches framed by lush rainforests. Explore Ubud's iconic rice fields and ancient cliffside monuments or visit the underwater world only accessible with scuba gear.

Where to stay near Bali?

Our 2019 accommodation listings offer a large selection of 6,392 holiday rentals near Bali. From 4,947 Villas to 510 Houses, find unique holiday homes for you to enjoy a memorable stay with your family and friends. The best place to stay near Bali for a long holiday or a weekend break is on HomeAway.

What are the most popular destinations to visit in Bali?

There are many lovely places to stay for a long holiday or just a weekend break in Bali. From HomeAway travellers, the popular destinations to visit are:

  • Seminyak: 2,299 holiday rentals
  • Ubud: 812 holiday rentals
  • Sanur: 237 holiday rentals
  • Legian Beach: 5,011 holiday rentals
  • Canggu: 4,636 holiday rentals

HomeAway offers you the possibility to discover many other popular destinations in Bali! Please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday rentals available in other popular destinations.

What are the main cities to discover in Bali?

Whether you are travelling solo or with family and friends, here are the cities in Bali with the largest selection of holiday rentals for a perfect city break:

  • Ubud: 812 holiday homes
  • Canggu: 4,636 holiday homes
  • Kuta: 5,352 holiday homes
  • Denpasar City: 5,716 holiday homes
  • Legian: 5,019 holiday homes

For other cities, please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday homes available.

Near which points of interest can I spend my holidays in Bali?

HomeAway offers a large selection of holiday homes near great places to visit in Bali. From HomeAway travellers, the more popular points of interest to stay for a holiday trip or just for a weekend are:

  • Seminyak Square: 5,865 holiday rentals
  • Uluwatu Beach: 5,029 holiday rentals
  • Eat Street: 5,853 holiday rentals
  • Uluwatu Cliffs: 5,038 holiday rentals
  • Ubud Royal Palace: 5,256 holiday rentals

But there are many other points of interest around Bali listed on HomeAway where you can find your place to stay. Just write your wanted destination in our search bar and have a look at our selection of holiday homes.

Explore destinations around Bali

Ubud
812 holiday rentals
Canggu
4,636 holiday rentals
Kuta
5,352 holiday rentals
Denpasar City
5,716 holiday rentals
Legian
5,019 holiday rentals
Uluwatu
2,171 holiday rentals
Candidasa
89 holiday rentals
Jungutbatu
68 holiday rentals
Ketewel
4,525 holiday rentals
Lokapaksa
171 holiday rentals
Kalisada
119 holiday rentals
Jimbaran
4,814 holiday rentals
Penestanan
847 holiday rentals
Kerobokan
4,854 holiday rentals
Kutuh
3,499 holiday rentals
Abiansemal
5,064 holiday rentals
Temukus
186 holiday rentals
West Selemadeg
116 holiday rentals
Nyambu
4,476 holiday rentals
Singaraja
140 holiday rentals