Choosing the best area to stay in Bali for families is an important decision that will shape the quality of your holiday. Bali offers a wide range of environments, from lively and bustling hubs filled with attractions to peaceful, secluded retreats surrounded by nature, making it a truly safe place for families to enjoy their stay.
For families traveling with children, the top priority is finding the safest place in Bali for families that also provides easy access to family-friendly facilities, schools, and entertainment. Here, we have divided the recommended areas based on their atmosphere, helping you discover the perfect location for the best hotels in Bali for families and family resorts for your next stay.
Best Areas to Stay: Lively and Vibrant
Bali has many areas that offer comprehensive facilities, plenty of dining options, and a wide range of family activities, making them ideal for both short holidays and extended stays.
1. Canggu
Canggu is known as a modern lifestyle hub that remains very family-friendly, offering a mix of trendy cafés, surf schools, and creative boutiques. For long-term stays, this area also has excellent international schools such as Canggu Community School and Bali Island School.
Families can find many options for the best resorts in Bali for families and private villas equipped with kid-friendly amenities, playgrounds, and cooking classes. With its vibrant atmosphere and strong community spirit, Canggu is the best place to stay in Bali, with a lot of activities for kids.
2. Umalas
Umalas is one of best area to stay in Bali for families. Located between Seminyak and Canggu, Umalas has become one of the most strategic and peaceful areas to stay in Bali, suitable for both short-term visitors and long-term residents. The area offers a range of accommodations, from 4-star hotels and private villas to cozy boutique stays, ensuring comfort and convenience, especially for those traveling with toddlers.
For those planning to stay longer, monthly villa rentals are available close to schools, clinics, and local shops. The area is quieter compared to Seminyak, offering private villas with pools and serene surroundings, ideal for families looking for the best place to stay in Bali with kids in a calm, residential environment without losing easy access to main attractions.
3. Seminyak
As one of Bali’s most famous coastal destinations, Seminyak provides a fun and family-oriented environment. It’s filled with stylish cafés, kid-friendly restaurants, beach clubs, and shops, yet still offers plenty of child-friendly facilities such as kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and fun outdoor activities.
Families staying long term can also find monthly villa rentals close to international schools, medical clinics, and supermarkets. The beach is perfect for family fun days, surfing lessons, or simply relaxing while watching the sunset. Seminyak remains one of the best areas to stay in Bali for families who enjoy convenience, comfort, and a lively atmosphere.
4. Jimbaran
Jimbaran is a peaceful beach town that offers a perfect balance between relaxation and family-friendly entertainment. It’s home to several best hotels in Bali for families, complete with kids’ clubs, playgrounds, and beach access. The area is also close to international schools, making it ideal for your Bali itinerary.
Families can explore the calm beaches like Muaya and Balangan, enjoy water sports such as parasailing or sea walking, or spend the day at Jungle Play, a beautiful treehouse-style playground. Jimbaran also offers go-kart tracks and skate parks, providing plenty of fun activities for both kids and parents.
5. Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is well-known for being quiet, secure, and well-maintained, making it one of the safest places in Bali for families. It’s home to numerous kid-friendly resorts and luxury hotels, many featuring dedicated kids’ clubs and daily family activities.
The beaches in Nusa Dua are calm and safe, with soft white sand and gentle waves perfect for children to swim and play. It’s also a great option for long-term stays due to its proximity to the airport, international schools, and hospitals, though monthly villa rentals can be limited.
6. Uluwatu
Although often known as a honeymoon destination, Uluwatu is also a wonderful area for families, especially those with older kids or teens who enjoy adventure and scenic views. The region offers a peaceful yet culturally rich environment, perfect for family vacations.
There are many family-friendly resorts and boutique hotels in Uluwatu featuring panoramic ocean views and relaxing restaurants ideal for family gatherings. For long-term stays, Uluwatu offers international schools, universities, and shopping centers nearby, along with many villa rental options for families who want a quiet coastal lifestyle.
Quietest Areas to Stay in Bali Away From Hustle and Bustle
If you are searching for the best area to stay in Bali for families that is far from tourist crowds and offers a more peaceful island experience, these quiet regions are worth considering. However, it is important to note that some of these places have limited public facilities, making them more suitable for retirees or families looking for a simple, nature-focused lifestyle rather than daily convenience.
1. Amed
Amed is a charming fishing village known for its incredible underwater scenery, attracting divers and snorkeling enthusiasts from around the world. The beaches feature black volcanic sand and calm turquoise waters, making them safe for children to swim.
Many parents choose Amed to teach their kids basic snorkeling because marine life is easy to spot and the waves are gentle. There are several family-friendly restaurants, villas, and small resorts in the area, some even available for monthly rent. However, activities for children beyond beach and water activities remain limited.
2. Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is famous for dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and iconic viewpoints that create unforgettable family memories. Many families visit this island for short holidays and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
It is a suitable option for long-term stays for families with teenagers or retirees who prefer a quiet and calm atmosphere. Popular attractions include Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and snorkeling with Manta Rays.
However, access to hospitals and schools is limited, as the island has no major medical facilities. Families must take a fast boat to Sanur or Klungkung for healthcare or education.
3. Nusa Ceningan
As the smallest of the Nusa Islands, Nusa Ceningan offers a peaceful island lifestyle away from crowds. The ambiance is calm and quiet, making it suitable for families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of busy tourist areas.
Monthly villa rentals and daily essentials may be more expensive due to limited distribution. Similar to Nusa Penida, access to hospitals and schools requires traveling to mainland Bali by fast boat.
4. Gianyar
Gianyar is a favorite area for locals, expats, and tourists seeking both convenience and cultural charm. The location offers easy access to popular destinations such as Sanur, Ubud, and Kintamani.
The region also has many public facilities, including international schools, hospitals, and family-friendly entertainment venues, making it ideal for both short and long-term stays. Gianyar continues to grow with new restaurants, cafés, and clubs that welcome families.
5. Tabanan
Tabanan is becoming increasingly popular among expats due to its peaceful atmosphere and strategic location near Nyanyi Beach, Nuanu City, Canggu, and Bedugul. Families who value slow living will appreciate the quiet surroundings while still having access to hospitals, schools, and essential services.
For short-term stays, Tabanan offers many child-friendly activities such as Bali Butterfly Park, Secret Garden Village, and Bali Farmhouse. Families will also find abundant kid-friendly restaurants and villas available for daily or monthly rent.
6. Lovina
Lovina in North Bali is best known for its dolphin-watching experiences. The town is peaceful with calm waters and a slower pace of life, making it ideal for retirees or short-term family holidays.
Children can enjoy waterfall trekking, visiting traditional villages, and swimming in the gentle sea. Although Lovina has many kid-friendly hotels and villas, long-term stays may be challenging due to limited access to international schools and major medical facilities.
7. Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island is a protected conservation area known for its endemic deer population and diverse marine life. As part of Bali Barat National Park, it is also home to the rare Bali Starling.
It is an excellent short-term destination for families interested in Bali’s wildlife and natural wonders. For long-term stays, families can live in the nearby Melaya area, which offers monthly rentals. However, public facilities are limited, with only small medical centers and basic local schools available.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Bali
Choosing the best place to stay in Bali with family depends on your preferences. Every area offers something unique, and Bali remains one of the safest places in Bali for families seeking comfort, culture, and meaningful experiences.
For more curated family travel tips and recommendations, visit Mai Main Playground to get more insight about things to do in Bali with kids.
