With its lush landscapes, soul-stirring beaches and effortless charm, Bali has long been a favourite for couples searching for something special. But with so many distinctive regions to choose from — each offering its own rhythm, scenery and sense of romance — deciding which part of the island to stay can be surprisingly tricky.
That’s where we come in. After more than 25 years of travelling to Bali several times each year, we’ve explored its every corner — from jungle-cloaked villages and clifftop retreats to sun-drenched shores and lesser-known islands. This detailed guide breaks down Bali’s most romantic regions, highlighting what each one offers couples.
Whether you’re drawn to the cultural heart of Ubud, the buzz of Seminyak, the laid-back charm of Jimbaran, or the barefoot island vibes of Nusa Lembongan, there’s a region in Bali to match your mood. That said, if you ask us, the best way to experience the island is to move between areas every three or four nights — each one feels like a completely different world.
Whether you’re planning a laid-back couples’ holiday or a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon, this regional guide will help you match your mood to the right part of the island. And when you’re ready to book your stay, don’t miss our roundup of the best honeymoon hotels in Bali — or, if you’re planning a multi-stop escape, explore our 12-day Bali honeymoon itinerary to tie it all together.
Legian
Legian is all about days spent at the beach
Legian, located between the bustling areas of Kuta and Seminyak, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. This beachside town has a more laid-back atmosphere than Kuta but is still vibrant and lively. With a wide range of restaurants, spas, and bars, Legian provides a hassle-free escape by the beach.
Taking inspiration from its famous neighbours, Legian has found its own unique identity. It attracts travellers seeking a stress-free holiday filled with sun, sea, sand, affordable massages, and ice-cold Bintang beers. It is also an excellent option for those seeking a more budget-friendly stay near the popular Seminyak area.
While there may be few landmarks to visit in Legian, the focus here is on embracing the beach lifestyle. And, what the area lacks in iconic sites, it more than makes up for with a wide selection of excellent accommodation options and breathtaking sunsets.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Legian, including shopping, swimming, dining out, getting massages, and even taking surfing lessons. At the beach end of Jalan Melasti, you can explore a large market selling traditional Balinese items and souvenirs.
As a coastal haven, Legian offers a perfect balance of relaxed beach vibes and exciting nightlife, ensuring an ideal blend of relaxation and excitement, with opportunities for surfing, enjoying beachside drinks at sunset, and dancing the night away under the starry sky. If you’re looking for even more entertainment and stylish experiences, nearby Seminyak, known as Bali’s capital of cool, is just a short distance away.
Seminyak
Seminyak Beach, Bali
Cherished for its fashionable street-scene and postcard-ready beaches, Seminyak is a bit of a go-to for a reason. A place where upmarket cafes, renowned restaurants and luxury boutiques lead to glamorous beach clubs, this sun-kissed spot has all the makings for an amazing Bali escape.
Much like in Legian, the beach clubs are the place to be here. If you don’t mind venturing out a little bit, head to KU DE TA and Potato Head Beach Club for some of Bali’s best cocktails and waterside dining. Want more? Add Mrs Sippy to your list and fit in time for a delicious meal at Saigon Street before wandering Seminyak’s shopping district.
And with some of the island’s most captivating sunsets on offer here, it’s only natural that you’ll find a wonderful array of resorts here, too.
A local woman makes her morning offerings along Batu Balong beach, as surfers carve up the famous Canggu waves.
Canggu
Canggu is a former surfer town that has transformed into a digital nomad haven and is now one of – if not THE – most sought-after destination in Bali. The area is bursting with trendy cafes, beachfront restaurants, yoga studios, and home to many creative individuals.
This beachy spot is a surfer’s paradise, where temples, long stretches of sand, terraced rice paddies, and high-end shopping and dining precincts converge.
During your stay, indulge in the local cuisine, surf some of the world’s best waves, or observe the bustling beach bars as the sun sets over the shimmering Indian Ocean.
The reasonably easy reach of some of Bali’s cultural sites are an attraction in Canggu. Be sure to visit the offshore Tanah Lot temple and the picturesque Batu Bolong Temple while in the region. After a day exploring, unwind with a relaxed lantern-lit dinner by the water at The Lawn and be enchanted by the captivating sunset. Alternatively, visit the local watering hole, Old Man’s, for an ice-cold beer.
Impress your companion with a unique dining experience at Skool Kitchen, Bali’s latest restaurant created by Tai Buddha and Adam McAsey. This establishment combines a primitive cooking style with contemporary culinary excellence, offering an honest and modern menu that is powered by natural wood and charcoal embers. Guests can indulge in the wood-fired bone marrow on toast or the slow-roasted eggplant with currant relish and cashews. Even the artisanal, house-crafted cocktails are infused with the essence of flames.
Jimbaran is a unique destination that offers a blend of luxury resorts and an authentic local community. It is a great place to unwind, enjoy a seafood dinner on the beach, explore local markets, and spend time by the sea. Unlike other touristy areas in Bali, Jimbaran maintains a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds.
The local community in Jimbaran is vibrant, with a bustling fresh food market in the morning and a seafood market on the beach where you can witness fishermen bringing in their catch. There is also an open-air shopping village for those looking for unique souvenirs.
Jimbaran offers delicious local and international food options, with its renowned seafood restaurants being a must-do activity. Unlike upscale restaurants in other areas, dining at the Jimbaran Seafood Restaurants takes place on tables set directly on the sandy beach, creating a special atmosphere surrounded by the open air and the soothing sound of waves. The cuisine is known for its simplicity and authenticity, with a focus on fresh seafood that is marinated and grilled over coconut husks, following the culinary traditions of the island.
However, the true beauty of Jimbaran lies in its perfect combination beaches, food, people, and local community. It is a place that encourages relaxation and allows you to immerse yourself in the laid-back lifestyle. And if you do want to venture out, there are many popular destinations nearby that are easily accessible.
Check out our guide to the must-do experiences in Jimbaran – discover hidden beaches, indulge in delicious food, and enjoy the best drinks in town.
Nusa Dua
Located on the southeastern coast of the Bukit Peninsula in Bali, Nusa Dua is a serene and picturesque destination known for its beautiful beach and wide range of water sports activities.
Nusa Dua, in contrast to the lively areas of Bali like Kuta, provides a serene and opulent experience. With its pristine surroundings, high-end resorts, and uncrowded beaches, Nusa Dua is an ideal destination for a tranquil Bali vacation or a romantic escape. It offers the perfect ambiance for couples to unwind and cherish each other’s presence, whether it’s after their wedding or during a time when they simply want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy a carefree holiday.
One of the highlights of Nusa Dua is the Waterblow rock formation, where visitors can witness the powerful waves crashing against the shore, creating a breathtaking sight. In addition to this natural attraction, visitors can also enjoy activities such as shopping at the local markets, dining at restaurants, walking along the beach boardwalk, and engaging in various water sports. Many hotels in the area offer a range of amenities and an abundance of activities for guests to enjoy.
While Nusa Dua may not offer a vibrant nightlife or a strong local community atmosphere, it is easy to venture out into other areas from Nusa Dua (depending on traffic conditions) if you feel like you need a night on the town or a dose of shopping.
Located on the southeast coast of Bali, Sanur is a picturesque town that provides a tranquil and authentic experience, in contrast to the lively beach towns in the southern part of the island. While it was previously popular among retirees and backpackers, the town is undergoing rapid changes.
Despite its growing popularity, Sanur has managed to maintain its tranquillity and traditional Balinese feel. It offers a perfect mix of traditional Balinese charm, but with more luxury hotels and at least one beach club opening, the town’s atmosphere may evolve. Right now, Sanur hits the spot – it’s one of our favourite beach towns in Bali with its lively cafes, fantastic restaurants, lush hotels, and plenty of spas for relaxation.
The boardwalk at Sanur is a perfect place for morning and afternoon walks. While Sanur Beach may not be considered one of the top beaches in Bali, it offers a unique and beautiful sunrise experience. The combination of a refreshing morning breeze, birds singing, fishermen going about their work, and the stunning view of Mount Agung and possibly Mount Rinjani in the distance creates a magical atmosphere. Starting your day with a walk along the boardwalk and witnessing the sunrise is definitely one of the highlights of visiting Sanur.
Easily one of Bali’s most loved regions, Ubud in the island’s north is brimming with rugged romance. It’s all about enjoying Mother Nature here – from going on mountain hikes and swimming in waterfalls to chilling out at a jungle-luxe resort.
Seeing the terraced rice paddy fields is kind of the thing to do in Ubud, but for good reason. Utterly breathtaking and unique, the sight is one you won’t soon forget – as is the view from Mount Batur at sunrise.
Complete your Ubud honeymoon with a stay somewhere heavenly. Sample the best of traditional Balinese cuisine at a roadside stall. Indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment and immerse yourselves in the region’s incredible culture. The cardinal rule for a romantic getaway to Ubud is to follow the three Rs – relax, recharge and be reinvigorated.
Uluwatu has long been a popular destination for surfers but has become one of the trendiest spots in Bali in recent years. Known for its legendary waves and stunning limestone cliffs, Uluwatu has attracted surfers for decades. However, it was a well-kept secret compared to other popular neighbourhoods in Bali.
Uluwatu has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. What was once a quiet destination known for its simple warungs and surfboard repair shops has now become a popular tourist spot, particularly for couples and honeymooners.
In addition to the idyllic beaches and stunning sunsets that initially attracted surfers and bohemians from around the world, today, a plethora of luxurious hotels and resorts have cropped up in Uluwatu, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a piece of paradise.
And with these new resorts and fame, Uluwatu has seen the emergence of new eateries, cafes, and wellness establishments, attracting fitness enthusiasts and food lovers alike, ensuring it is an ideal choice for those looking for a blend of relaxation, indulgence, and cultural experiences.
In addition to relaxation and indulging in the fabulous food and wellness scene that has cropped up there, visitors can enjoy activities such as surfing, visiting Uluwatu Temple, and witnessing the Kacak fire dance.
Nusa Lembongan
Dream beach at Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan, a charming island just a short boat ride from Bali, is an ideal destination for couples looking for a romantic honeymoon. It is one of the three Nusa islands, with Nusa Penida and Nusa Cenigan being the other two. However, Nusa Lembongan stands out as the most vibrant and offers the best accommodations for a memorable stay.
Its crystal-clear waters make it a paradise for ocean activities such as surfing, snorkelling, diving, and paddle-boarding, making it a perfect destination for honeymooners and couples seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The island is also renowned for its diving spots, where you can have the incredible opportunity to snorkel with majestic manta rays. Days can be spent enjoying yoga sessions, renting a bike to explore the island, or simply unwinding on the beach while sipping cocktails and witnessing breathtaking sunsets.
Bonus options: If you enjoy exploring off the beaten path, you might want to consider extending your stay with a few nights in one of Bali’s lesser-known areas. We offer a detailed travel guide for two such destinations – Sideman in East Bali or Munduk in the North.
