So, you’re coming to Bali. Good choice. Sun, surf, smoothie bowls—you’re about to live your best life. But where to stay? If you’ve done even five minutes of research, you’ve probably seen the usual descriptions of Canggu, Uluwatu, and Ubud. Let’s shake things up and give you the real, less-talked-about gems in these tourist hotspots.

Canggu: Where Everyone’s a Digital Nomad... or Pretending to Be

Canggu is like that effortlessly cool kid in school—everyone wants to be here. It’s an Instagram playground of rice fields, buzzing cafes, and motorbikes that may or may not follow traffic laws. But beyond the Wi-Fi warriors and oat milk lattes, there’s a deeper side to this beach town.

Offbeat Must-Do: Skip the crowded sunset at Batu Bolong and head to Pererenan Beach instead. It’s quieter, equally stunning, and you won’t have to jostle for a beanbag at the usual beach bars.

Eat Here: Want the best pizza outside of Italy? Give Luigi’s Hot Pizza a go. For something healthier but still indulgent, The Avocado Factory serves avo in ways you never knew were possible.

Bonus Tip: If you’re up before noon (rare, we know), go for a morning beach walk from Echo Beach to Berawa. The tide pools are weirdly fascinating, and you might even find a hidden warung (local eatery) for a strong Balinese coffee.

Check out our villas in Canggu 🌴

Uluwatu: Clifftop Views & Hidden Waves

Uluwatu is Bali’s rebel cousin—the one who surfs like a pro, never wears shoes, and somehow always has that perfect saltwater hair. Yes, the beaches are legendary, but let’s go beyond the usual hotspots.

Hidden Spot: Thomas Beach. It’s the lovechild of Padang Padang and Bingin but with half the crowd. Pack some snacks because once you find this paradise, you won’t want to leave.

Eat Here: Suka Espresso for the best Aussie-style brekkie (seriously, try the French toast). For seafood lovers, head to Jimbaran for the famous beachside seafood BBQ—yes, it’s touristy, but for good reason.

Sunset Hack: Everyone goes to Single Fin, which is great... if you like being packed in with a hundred other sunset-chasers. Instead, hit up The Cashew Tree in Bingin. It’s got live music, good vibes, and you can still see that epic Bali glow in the sky.

Check out our villas in Uluwatu 🌊

Ubud: More Than Just Yoga & Monkey Selfies

Yes, Ubud is a wellness haven. Yes, there are monkeys (don’t bring snacks unless you want to be mugged by a furry fiend). But if you venture beyond the yoga mats and smoothie bars, Ubud has some truly unexpected magic.

Alternative Adventure: Everyone visits Tegalalang Rice Terrace, but for fewer crowds and more authentic charm, go to Sidemen. It’s an hour away but worth it for untouched landscapes and the kind of peace that makes you forget Wi-Fi exists.

Eat Here: Locavore is the high-end, must-book-in-advance spot for foodies. But for a casual, hidden gem, try Fair Warung Bale, where your meal helps support a local health clinic.

Chill Tip: Instead of battling for a sunrise swing photo, visit a lesser-known waterfall like Tibumana or Kanto Lampo. Better photo ops, fewer people.

Final Words: Stay Somewhere That Feels Like You

Bali is a chameleon—it can be laid-back, adventurous, luxury-packed, or backpacker-budget-friendly. But wherever you stay, make it somewhere that suits your vibe. And if you want the perfect balance of stylish, fun, and authentic? Well, The Young Villas has got you covered. Just saying.