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Family relaxing in a private villa pool in Candidasa, one of the quieter places to stay in Bali with kids

Where to Stay in Bali with Kids: Best Areas & Family Hotels (2026)

The best area to stay in Bali with kids is Sanur for most families, thanks to its calm beaches, walkability, and central location. Other great areas include Ubud for nature and culture, Nusa Dua for resort stays, and Canggu or Seminyak for active family trips with older kids.

Where is the best area to stay in Bali with kids?

The best area to stay in Bali with kids depends on your childrenโ€™s ages and travel style, but for most families, Sanur is the easiest and most popular base. With calm swimming beaches, a stroller-friendly promenade, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants and hotels, it offers a great balance of convenience and relaxation.

Families with babies and toddlers often find Sanur the easiest choice, while Ubud is ideal for nature, culture, and sightseeing. If you prefer a resort-style holiday where everything is on-site, Nusa Dua is a fantastic option with kidsโ€™ clubs, large family resorts, and calm beaches.

Families with older children often enjoy Canggu and Seminyak, where surf beaches, cafรฉs, and playgrounds create a more active atmosphere. Uluwatu is another great choice for beach-loving families, offering dramatic cliff views, beautiful beaches, and spacious villas.

For a quieter family holiday, consider Lovina, Amed, or Sidemen, where you’ll find fewer crowds and a slower pace of travel. If you’re looking for an island adventure, Nusa Lembongan is our favorite of the Nusa Islands with kids, while Nusa Penida is better suited to adventurous families with older children.

Not sure where to stay? Start with the comparison table below. It compares the best areas in Bali for families based on your children’s ages, travel style, and the type of holiday you’re planning.

Choosing where to stay in Bali is often the first step when planning a family trip. If you’re still deciding whether Bali is right for your family, read our complete Bali with Kids guide covering transport, safety, costs, and the best things to do with children.

Father and daughter watching waves at Dreamland beach in Bali

If we had to recommend one area to stay in Bali with kids

โœ” Best area: Sanur
โœ” Best family hotel: Hyatt Regency Bali Sanur

Sanur is our top pick for families traveling to Bali with kids thanks to its calm beaches, flat beachfront paths, and relaxed atmosphere. Plenty of family-friendly restaurants and its central location make daily travel easy and stress-free.

Hyatt Regency Bali is the hotel we’d choose for most families visiting Bali for the first time. The beachfront location, large pools, tropical gardens, and family-friendly atmosphere make it an easy and reliable choice.

Hyatt Regency Bali in Sanur, a beachfront resort popular with families visiting Bali

Best Family Hotels in Bali with Kids

๐Ÿ‘ถ Best for babies & resort stays

Nusa Dua
Top pick: Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali
Kids’ clubs, family pools, and beachfront access for easy family holidays.
โ†’ Check family room availability

๐ŸŒฟ Best for nature & culture lovers

Ubud
Top pick: Alaya Resort Ubud
Beautiful gardens, family-friendly rooms, and a great location for exploring Ubud with kids.
โ†’ View family rooms

๐Ÿ„ Best for active families & older kids

Canggu
Top pick: Citadines Berawa Beach Bali Resort
Surf beaches, cafรฉs, playground spots, and modern family rooms near the ocean.
โ†’ Check availability

๐ŸŒŠ Best for stunning beaches & ocean views

Uluwatu
Top pick: Balangan Beach Villa
Spacious villas, pools, and dramatic coastal scenery, perfect for families who love beach time and views.
โ†’ Check villa availability

๐Ÿฌ Best for quiet stays & nature escapes

Lovina
Top pick: The Kayu Manis Villa
Peaceful atmosphere, private pools, dolphin trips, and a relaxed pace of travel.
โ†’ Check availability

๐Ÿ Best for island life & snorkeling with kids

Nusa Lembongan
Top pick: Kakiang Guesthouse
Walkable island, calm bays, friendly hosts, and snorkeling straight from the beach.
โ†’ View Family Rooms

Young child overlooking the rice fields at Bukit Cinta, Bali

Best Places to Stay in Bali with Kids

Looking for a quick recommendation? These are our favorite places to stay in Bali with kids, whether you’re traveling with a baby, toddler, or older children. Scroll down for our full area comparison and detailed destination guides.

Family-friendly beach in Sanur, Bali, with calm water and a stroller-friendly promenade

๐ŸŒด Sanur with Kids

Calm beaches, a stroller-friendly promenade, and a central location make Sanur our favorite base for families.

Young child exploring the Tegalalang rice terraces near Ubud, one of the best areas in Bali for nature and culture

๐ŸŒฟ Ubud with Kids

The best choice for rice fields, waterfalls, culture, and family-friendly day trips across central Bali.

Mother and daughter walking along Nusa Dua Beach, a family-friendly resort area in South Bali

๐Ÿ–๏ธ Nusa Dua with Kids

Perfect for families looking for beachfront resorts, kids’ clubs, and calm swimming beaches.

Family enjoying Batu Bolong Beach in Canggu, Bali, a popular area for surf, cafรฉs, and active family holidays

๐Ÿ„ Canggu with Kids

A lively mix of surf beaches, cafรฉs, playgrounds, and family-friendly activities for older kids.

Young child playing on Dreamland Beach in Uluwatu, Bali, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and ocean views

๐ŸŒ… Uluwatu with Kids

Beautiful beaches, ocean views, and spacious villas for a relaxed family holiday.

Father and daughter enjoying the view over Dream Beach from a beach club on Nusa Lembongan

๐Ÿ๏ธ Nusa Lembongan with Kids

A small island with beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and a slower pace than mainland Bali.

Still not sure which destination is right for your family? Use the comparison table below to compare the best places to stay in Bali with kids based on beaches, resorts, sightseeing, crowds, and travel style.

๐Ÿ” Compare the Best Places to Stay in Bali with Kids

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Place Area Best For Vibe Beaches Culture Accommodation Crowd Level Best Age
Lovina North Bali Quiet family trips Relaxed Black-sand beaches Medium Hotels & villas Low All ages
Pemuteran North Bali Nature & snorkeling Quiet Good Medium Villas & eco stays Very low All ages
Sanur East Bali First-time families Relaxed Calm beaches Medium Hotels & resorts Medium Babies & toddlers
Candidasa East Bali Slow travel Relaxed Limited High Hotels & villas Low All ages
Amed East Bali Snorkeling & diving Local Good Medium Guesthouses & villas Low Older kids
Ubud Central Bali Nature & sightseeing Cultural No beach Excellent Villas & boutique stays High All ages
Sidemen Central Bali Rice fields & relaxation Rural No beach High Villas & nature stays Very low All ages
Canggu West Bali Active families Trendy Surf beaches Low Villas & hotels High Older kids
Seminyak West Bali Restaurants & shopping Lively Good Low Hotels & villas High Older kids
Kuta West Bali Budget & convenience Busy Good Low Hotels & resorts Very high Older kids
Nusa Dua South Bali Resort holidays Resort Excellent Low Family resorts Medium Babies & toddlers
Jimbaran South Bali Easy beach holidays Laid-back Very good Low Hotels & villas Medium All ages
Uluwatu South Bali Beaches & views Scenic Excellent High Villas & beach resorts Medium Older kids
Nusa Lembongan Nusa Islands Island adventure Island life Excellent Low Hotels & villas Medium All ages
Nusa Penida Nusa Islands Adventure Rugged Excellent Low Hotels & villas Medium Older kids
Map of the best places to stay in Bali with kids, including Sanur, Ubud, Nusa Dua, Canggu, Uluwatu, Lovina, Amed, Sidemen, Jimbaran, Seminyak, Kuta, Candidasa, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Penida.

How We Choose Where to Stay in Bali with Kids

After visiting Bali many times, including three trips with our daughters, starting when they were babies and continuing through the toddler years, we’ve learned that there isn’t one perfect place to stay in Bali with kids.

The best choice depends on your family, your interests, and the type of trip you’re looking for. Some families want a resort where everything is taken care of. Others want to explore different parts of the island and experience as much of Bali as possible. (And yes, we’re among the few families who don’t completely hate Kuta. ๐Ÿ˜…)

This is usually how we think about it:

  • ๐Ÿจ Want a stress-free resort holiday?
    We’d usually recommend Nusa Dua, where calm beaches, kids’ clubs, and family resorts make everything easy.
  • ๐ŸŒด Prefer one comfortable base?
    Sanur is hard to beat thanks to its calm beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and central location for day trips around Bali.
  • ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Want to experience more of Bali?
    We almost always recommend splitting your trip between multiple destinations. That’s how we travel ourselves, and Bali feels completely different depending on where you stay with kids.

Our Bali family itinerary can give you a realistic starting point, but don’t be afraid to adapt it to your own interests. In our experience, planning the route is part of the fun. We also recommend browsing our guide to the best things to do in Bali with kids before choosing where to stay, as the activities you’re most excited about often determine the best base for your family.

Still deciding between the two islands? Compare Bali vs Lombok with Kids before choosing where to stay.

Free printables little passport crew

Family travel resources for Bali trips

Bali & Lombok Itinerary Guide

a step-by-step family route with realistic travel times, base locations, and stay tips across both islands.

Bali & Lombok Family Itinerary Guide

Bali Travel Journal for Kids

a fun printable journal to help kids draw, write, and remember their favorite moments from the trip.

Bali & Lombok Family Itinerary Guide

South Bali with Kids: Nusa Dua, Uluwatu & Jimbaran Family Stays

Best areas to stay in South Bali with kids

South Bali includes Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, and the dramatic Uluwatu area, with some of Baliโ€™s most stunning beaches. Expect soft white sand, turquoise water, and cliff views. This region is perfect for families wanting easy beach days, great resorts, and kid-friendly facilities, though it can get busy and traffic-heavy during high season. Read our guide on where to stay in Uluwatu with kids for the best family areas, villas and beach resorts.

Bali looks small on the map, but travel times can be surprisingly long. Our Bali transport guide for families explains the easiest ways to get around with kids.

Best Places in South Bali with Kids

  • ๐Ÿ–๏ธ Nusa Dua โ€“ Calm beaches, family resorts, kids’ clubs, and one of the easiest areas in Bali for babies and toddlers.
  • ๐ŸŒ… Uluwatu โ€“ Stunning beaches, dramatic cliff views, and spacious villas, especially popular with families traveling with older kids.
  • ๐ŸŒด Jimbaran โ€“ A quieter beach area with family-friendly restaurants and easy access to the airport.

Top things to do in South Bali with kids

Weโ€™ll be honest, the main reason to stay here is the beach life. Think soft sand, crystal-clear water, and space to run and play. Some beaches (like Dreamland) have bigger waves too, perfect for older kids who love a bit of adventure.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Looking for calm swimming beaches, soft sand, and family-friendly beach days? Explore our guide to the best beaches in Bali with kids.

  • Discover the best of South Bali on a guided tour featuring beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, and the iconic Uluwatu Temple.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood and sunset dinners in Jimbaran Bay, perfect for little ones who love playing in the sand.
  • Have a fun-filled day at Waterbom Bali, a water park with slides and pools for all ages. You can ๐Ÿ‘‰ book tickets here to skip the lines.
  • Explore Uluwatuโ€™s stunning cliff views and beaches like Dreamland and Padang Padang, great for older kids who can manage stairs and stronger waves.

After exploring different areas in Bali, our kids loved keeping track of their favorite moments in our Bali travel journal for kids we use on family trips.

Best family stays in South Bali

Looking for a place to stay with your little ones? In the Uluwatu area, youโ€™ll find stylish family villas and smaller boutique stays, perfect if you like a bit more space and privacy. Looking for more family-friendly villas and resorts? Check out our complete Uluwatu with Kids guide.

Prefer full-service comfort? Head to Nusa Dua, home to big beachfront resorts with kidsโ€™ clubs, baby gear and plenty of activities for all ages.

  • ๐Ÿ–๏ธ Best Resort in Nusa Dua
    Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali โ€“ Large family rooms, multiple pools, kids’ clubs, and one of the most family-focused resorts in Bali. A great choice if you’re looking for a stress-free beach holiday where everything is within easy reach.
  • ๐ŸŒ… Best Villa in Uluwatu
    Jumeirah Bali โ€“ Private pool villas, stunning cliff-top views, and spacious family accommodation in one of Bali’s most beautiful coastal settings.
  • ๐ŸŒด Best Family Stay in Jimbaran
    InterContinental Bali Resort โ€“ Calm beachfront location, family-friendly facilities, and one of the best areas in South Bali for younger children.

West Bali with Kids: Canggu, Seminyak & Kuta Family Guide

Best areas to stay in West Bali with kids

West Bali includes Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta, a lively region known for surf beaches, family-friendly cafรฉs, beach clubs, and plenty of activities. While this area can be busy, it’s a great choice for families with older kids who enjoy a more active atmosphere.

Best Places in West Bali with Kids

  • ๐Ÿ„ Canggu โ€“ Popular for cafรฉs, surf beaches, and family activities, but heavy traffic can take away some of the relaxed Bali feeling.
  • ๐ŸŒด Seminyak โ€“ A good middle ground with beaches, restaurants, and family-friendly accommodation, while feeling slightly calmer than nearby Canggu and Kuta.
  • ๐ŸŒ… Kuta โ€“ Convenient, affordable, and close to the airport. While it’s one of Bali’s busiest tourist areas, some families appreciate the wide beach and easy access to shops and restaurants.

Top things to do in West Bali with kids

West Bali offers lively beaches and fun activities for older kids. Surf lessons are available almost everywhere here, perfect for adventurous little ones. For a cultural outing, visit the iconic Tanah Lot temple with its stunning sea views.
๐Ÿ‘‰ Curious about kid-friendly activities in Bali? Check out our top 10 things to do in Bali with kids.

  • Play and swim on sandy beaches with waves for the older kids.
  • Visit a family-friendly beach club in Canggu, like Atlas, which has a special kid zone.
  • Take ๐Ÿ‘‰ surf lessons suitable for beginners at many spots around West Bali.
  • Explore the ๐Ÿ‘‰ iconic Tanah Lot temple for a dose of culture and great photo ops.

Best family stays in West Bali

West Bali has accommodation for all budgets, from lively guesthouses in Kuta to stylish villas in Seminyak and Canggu. Families who want vibrant neighborhoods with plenty of dining options will love staying here.

  • ๐Ÿ„ Best Family Villa in Canggu
    Theanna Villa and Spa Canggu โ€“ Private pool villas, spacious family accommodation, and a quieter setting than many of Canggu’s busier streets, while still being close to cafรฉs, restaurants, and the beach.
  • ๐ŸŒด Best Villa in Seminyak
    Annora Villas Seminyak โ€“ Spacious private villas within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and Seminyak Beach, perfect for families wanting comfort and privacy.
  • ๐Ÿ–๏ธ Best Resort in Seminyak
    Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak Resort โ€“ Family-friendly facilities, large pools, and a convenient location close to Seminyak’s beaches, restaurants, and shopping.
  • ๐ŸŒ… Best Family Resort in Kuta
    Bali Dynasty Resort โ€“ One of Bali’s most family-focused resorts, featuring multiple pools, a kids’ water park, family rooms, and easy access to Kuta Beach.

๐Ÿ’ฌ Our Experience With Kuta

Kuta has a bit of a mixed reputation, but to be honest, we have a soft spot for it and have visited often. However, when traveling with babies, we found it a bit too busy and loud. For families with very young children, we wouldnโ€™t recommend Kuta as a first choice, but older kids who enjoy lively beach towns will find plenty to love.

Central Bali with Kids: Ubud & Sidemen for Nature-Loving Families

Best areas to stay in Central Bali with kids

Central Bali is home to Ubud and Sidemen; two lush, green regions filled with rice terraces, waterfalls, and quiet villages. This part of Bali is perfect for families looking for nature, culture, and a slower pace of travel. Ubud offers plenty of family-friendly activities, cafรฉs, and day trips, while Sidemen feels quieter and more traditional.

Best Places in Central Bali with Kids

  • ๐ŸŒฟ Ubud โ€“ Rice terraces, waterfalls, family-friendly cafรฉs, and some of Bali’s best day trips all within easy reach.
  • ๐ŸŒพ Sidemen โ€“ A peaceful valley surrounded by rice fields and mountain views, ideal for families looking to slow down and escape the crowds.

Top things to do in Central Bali with kids

Ubud is a great base for short, family-friendly adventures. Youโ€™ll find beautiful nature and relaxed activities that suit both younger and older children. Sidemen is quieter, but still has plenty of charm, with amazing views and space to slow down. Check out our new full guide: Ubud with kids.

  • Walk through the Tegalalang Rice Terraces or enjoy the views on the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud. Or take a ๐Ÿ‘‰ private tour to see all the highlights around Ubud in one day.
  • Visit small animal parks like the Bali Zoo or Bali Bird Park; ideal for toddlers and young kids. ๐Ÿ‘‰ Book your tickets here!
  • Try a local ๐Ÿ‘‰ cooking class, a fun activity for older kids and teens who like to get involved.
  • Stay in Sidemen and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, nature sounds, and village atmosphere.
  • Take a short drive to Bukit Cinta Viewpoint near Rendang. The view of Mount Agung is beautiful, or so they say. We only saw clouds. Lots of them. But hey, at least it was peaceful!

Best family stays in Central Bali

Looking for a family-friendly base? Ubud offers everything from luxury resorts to traditional Balinese villas, while Sidemen is perfect for families wanting peace, nature, and incredible views.

  • ๐ŸŒฟ Best Family Resort in Ubud
    Alaya Resort Ubud โ€“ Spacious rooms, beautiful gardens, and a central location close to Ubud’s restaurants, cafรฉs, and family-friendly attractions.
  • ๐ŸŒฟ Best Luxury Stay in Ubud
    Komaneka at Tanggayuda Ubud โ€“ Stunning jungle views, spacious suites, and a peaceful setting away from Ubud’s busiest streets.
  • ๐ŸŒพ Best Nature Escape in Sidemen
    NUMA Bali Hotel โ€“ Beautiful valley views, peaceful surroundings, and a great base for exploring Sidemen with kids.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Looking for more options? Read our complete guide on where to stay in Ubud with kids.

East Bali with Kids: Sanur, Amed & Candidasa Family Stays

Best areas to stay in East Bali with kids

East Bali offers a unique mix of easy family beach days and quieter, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Sanur is the most family-friendly destination in this region, with calm beaches, a stroller-friendly promenade, and plenty of family resorts. Further along the coast, Candidasa and Amed offer a slower pace of travel, beautiful ocean views, and a more local atmosphere than Bali’s busier tourist areas.

One of the things we love about East Bali is the variety. You can spend your mornings on Sanur’s calm beach, explore water palaces like Tirta Gangga, snorkel in Amed, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery around Candidasa.

If you’re staying in East Bali, we also highly recommend visiting Sidemen. Technically part of Central Bali, this beautiful valley of rice fields, jungle views, and traditional villages is one of our favorite places on the island.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Thinking about a trip to Bali with your kids? Hereโ€™s why we think itโ€™s a great idea!

Best Places in East Bali with Kids

  • ๐ŸŒด Sanur โ€“ Calm beaches, a stroller-friendly promenade, family resorts, and one of the easiest places to stay in Bali with babies and toddlers.
  • ๐Ÿ  Amed โ€“ A relaxed coastal area known for snorkeling, ocean views, and a slower pace of life, ideal for families with older kids.
  • ๐ŸŒ… Candidasa โ€“ Quiet beaches, family villas, and a peaceful atmosphere away from Bali’s busiest tourist areas.

Top things to do in East Bali with kids

From black-sand beaches to waterfalls, East Bali has plenty to offer for families, especially those looking for something more off the beaten path

  • Stroll or ๐Ÿ‘‰ cycle the beach path in Sanur: flat, shady and stroller-friendly
  • Snorkel in Amed or Lipah Beach; calmest in the mornings
  • Explore Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung; peaceful water palaces with stepping stones and koi
  • Splash around at Gembleng Waterfall; small but scenic, better for older kids or with a baby carrier. Check this tour
  • Visit the Bali Safari & Marine Park โ€” easy drive from Sanur, with safari buses and water play zones. You can ๐Ÿ‘‰ book tickets here to skip the lines.
  • ๐Ÿคซ Secret tip for parents and older kids: Scuba diving at Tulamben is fantastic: calm conditions and a shipwreck just offshore

Best family stays in East Bali

East Bali offers two very different experiences for families.

Sanur is your best bet for comfort: think beachfront resorts, stroller paths, cafรฉs, and supermarkets. Itโ€™s ideal with babies or toddlers, you wonโ€™t have to travel far, and everything is close by.

Further up the coast, in places like Amed and Candidasa, youโ€™ll find peaceful beach hotels, ocean-view villas, and local guesthouses. These spots are more suited to older kids who can handle longer drives and love being close to nature and the sea.

  • ๐ŸŒด Best Family Resort in Sanur
    Hyatt Regency Bali โ€“ Beachfront location, large pools, tropical gardens, and family-friendly facilities in one of Bali’s most popular areas for families.
  • ๐Ÿ  Best Family Stay in Amed
    Abing Villas Amed โ€“ Peaceful villas with beautiful views, family-friendly facilities, and easy access to snorkeling spots.
  • ๐ŸŒ… Best Family Villa in Candidasa
    Bayshore Villa Candidasa โ€“ Relaxed beachfront setting, spacious villas, sea views, and a quieter side of Bali perfect for slowing down.

North Bali with Kids: Lovina & Pemuteran for Nature & Wildlife

Best areas to stay in North Bali with kids

North Bali is the calm, spacious side of the island, full of black-sand beaches, lush hills, and relaxed coastal towns like Lovina and Pemuteran. It’s a perfect region if you want nature, fewer tourists, and a more authentic feel. Planning to stay here? Read our complete guide to Lovina with kids.

While North Bali is often recommended for families with older kids, we think itโ€™s also great with younger children, especially if you’re up for a bit of adventure. We explored this region with a baby and a toddler, and it worked surprisingly well.

Expect longer transfers and fewer facilities, but if you like a bit of adventure and donโ€™t mind being off the beaten path, North Bali is wonderfully rewarding.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Planning a trip to Bali? Download our Bali Travel Journal for Kids to keep the kids entertained, and check our Travel Shop for more fun (free) printables.

Best Places in North Bali with Kids

  • ๐Ÿฌ Lovina โ€“ Calm beaches, dolphin tours, and the best mix of family-friendly facilities and a relaxed atmosphere in North Bali.
  • ๐Ÿคฟ Pemuteran โ€“ A peaceful coastal village surrounded by nature, perfect for families who love snorkeling and diving, with easy access to Menjangan Island.

Top things to do in North Bali with kids

This region is peaceful, scenic, and perfect for families who love nature and donโ€™t mind a bit of driving.

  • Go on a ๐Ÿ‘‰ dolphin tour in Lovina, a sunrise experience thatโ€™s exciting for all ages.
  • Explore ๐Ÿ‘‰ Sekumpul Waterfall with kids, one of Bali’s most beautiful family adventures if you don’t mind a bit of hiking.
  • Take a ๐Ÿ‘‰ day trip to Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, the famous temple by the lake, thereโ€™s even a small playground nearby for the kids.
  • Explore Menjangan Island, part of Bali Barat National Park, perfect for snorkeling families or parents who can take turns in the water.
  • Drive through Munduk for epic viewpoints and short hikes, a great place for a scenic lunch break.

Best family stays in North Bali

Accommodation in North Bali is spacious, peaceful, and often much better value than in the south. Whether you choose a beachfront resort in Lovina or a quiet villa in Pemuteran, you’ll find plenty of space to relax after exploring waterfalls, beaches, and nearby nature.

  • ๐Ÿฌ Best Luxury Stay in Lovina
    The Damai โ€“ Peaceful luxury villas, beautiful tropical gardens, and one of the most relaxing stays in North Bali.
  • ๐ŸŒด Best Family Resort in Lovina
    The Grand Villandra Resort Lovina โ€“ Spacious family accommodation, large pools, and a quiet location close to Lovina’s beaches and dolphin tours.
  • ๐ŸŒฟ Best Family Stay in Pemuteran
    Amertha Bali Villas โ€“ Beachfront villas, tropical gardens, and one of the best family-friendly bases for exploring Menjangan Island and North Bali’s snorkeling spots.

6. Nusa Islands with Kids: Lembongan, Ceningan & Penida Guide

Best areas to stay on the Nusa Islands with kids

Want to know more? Check out our detailed guides to the ๐Ÿ‘‰ Nusa Islands with kids: including Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida.

The Nusa Islands, Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida, lie just off Baliโ€™s southeast coast and offer a wilder, more rugged alternative to mainland Bali. These islands are famous for turquoise lagoons, cliff views, and quieter beaches, making them great for adventurous families.

While the Nusa Islands are less developed than Bali itself, theyโ€™re still very doable with kids, especially Lembongan and Ceningan. Weโ€™ve visited these islands with a baby and toddler and had an amazing time.

Expect some wild boat rides and rougher roads, but if you love adventure and nature, the Nusas are well worth it

๐Ÿ‘‰ Need ferry tickets? We always travel with Ekajaya and recommend booking in advance via 12Go Asia.

Best Places on the Nusa Islands with Kids

  • ๐Ÿ๏ธ Nusa Lembongan โ€“ Our favorite base for families, with calm beaches, easy transport, and plenty of family-friendly accommodation.
  • ๐ŸŒฟ Nusa Ceningan โ€“ A quieter island connected to Lembongan by the Yellow Bridge, perfect for a relaxing afternoon or an overnight stay.
  • ๐ŸŒŠ Nusa Penida โ€“ Dramatic cliffs, spectacular viewpoints, and adventurous day trips, best suited to families with older children.

Top things to do on the Nusa Islands with kids

The Nusa Islands offer a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for families traveling with children. From exploring hidden beaches to boat trips, thereโ€™s something for every age and energy level.

  • Explore calm beaches like Mushroom Bay and Jungut batu, ideal for paddling and sandcastle building with little ones.
  • Discover the stunning coastal cliffs and secret beaches, accessible via short hikes. Ideal for families with active kids.
  • Go on a mangrove forest boat tour, a peaceful and educational trip through serene waterways with opportunities to spot wildlife.
  • Snorkel in shallow bays where older kids can safely swim among colorful fish and coral reefs.
  • Take a ๐Ÿ‘‰ day trip to Nusa Penida for breathtaking viewpoints and iconic spots like Kelingking Beach; suitable for families with older children.
  • Watch manta rays swim near the islands: a magical experience for confident swimmers and teens. You can get your tickets on the spot, but itโ€™s also easy to book them ๐Ÿ‘‰ here

Best family stays on the Nusa Islands

Nusa Lembongan is our favorite base for families visiting the Nusa Islands. It offers the best balance of calm beaches, family-friendly accommodation, and easy access to both Ceningan and Penida. Families with older kids looking for a quieter stay may also enjoy Ceningan, while Penida is best explored as a day trip or short stay.

  • ๐Ÿ๏ธ Best Family Resort on Nusa Lembongan
    Ohana’s Beachfront Resort & Beach Club โ€“ Beachfront location, family-friendly pool, and one of the best sunset spots on Nusa Lembongan.
  • ๐ŸŒด Best Beach Stay on Nusa Lembongan
    Dream Beach Huts โ€“ Charming beachfront bungalows with a pool, beautiful ocean views, and direct access to one of Lembongan’s most scenic beaches.
  • ๐ŸŒฟ Best Budget-Friendly Stay on Nusa Lembongan
    Kakiang Guesthouse โ€“ Friendly hosts, comfortable family rooms, and excellent value close to the beach and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Bali with a Baby or Toddler

Bali is one of our favorite destinations for traveling with babies and toddlers. While you can comfortably stay in almost any part of the island, some areas are simply easier with little ones than others.

Looking for more practical tips? Read our complete Bali with a Baby & Toddler guide, where we share everything we’ve learned from traveling Bali with little ones.

After visiting Bali several times with our daughters, we’d generally recommend Sanur, Ubud, and Nusa Dua as the best places to stay with a baby or toddler.

๐Ÿ‘ถ Sanur โ€“ Our top recommendation for young families, thanks to its calm beaches, stroller-friendly promenade, and relaxed atmosphere.

๐ŸŒฟ Ubud โ€“ Perfect for families who love nature and culture, with beautiful villas, family-friendly cafรฉs, and easy access to waterfalls and rice terraces.

๐Ÿ–๏ธ Nusa Dua โ€“ The easiest choice if you’re looking for a resort holiday with kids’ clubs, spacious beaches, and everything within walking distance.

Other areas can also work well, depending on the type of trip you’re planning:

  • Seminyak, Kuta, and Canggu are lively and offer plenty of restaurants and family facilities, but traffic and crowds can make them less relaxing with young children.
  • Uluwatu is beautiful for families who love beaches and ocean views, although you’ll usually need a driver or scooter to get around.
  • Lovina and Candidasa are wonderful if you’re looking for a slower pace, fewer crowds, and a more local experience.
  • Nusa Lembongan is a fantastic island escape with toddlers, as long as you’re comfortable with the boat transfer from Bali.

No matter where you stay, you’ll find welcoming locals, family-friendly accommodation, and plenty of memorable experiences that make Bali one of the easiest destinations in Southeast Asia for traveling with young children.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Still deciding when to visit? Our guide to the best time to visit Bali with kids explains how the seasons affect crowds, weather, and beach conditions throughout the year.

Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Bali with Kids

Choosing where to stay is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning a family trip to Bali. The good news? There isn’t one perfect answer.

Some families will love spending two weeks in a beachfront resort in Nusa Dua. Others will prefer exploring rice terraces around Ubud or snorkeling in Amed. We almost always choose to combine several destinations, because every part of Bali has its own atmosphere and something unique to offer.

If you’re still unsure, we’d recommend starting with Sanur. It’s one of the easiest places to travel with babies, toddlers, and young children, while also making a great base for exploring other parts of the island.

We hope this guide helps you plan a Bali trip your family will remember for years to come.

Continue Planning Your Bali Family Trip

If you loved Bali, check out our other family guides across the region:

๐Ÿ“Œ Save this guide to Pinterest & follow us for weekly family travel ideas.
๐Ÿ“ธ And donโ€™t forget to say hi on Instagram โ€” weโ€™re sharing real tips and behind-the-scenes from our adventures with kids!

Happy travels! ๐ŸŒบ
โ€” The Little Passport Crew

FAQ: Where to Stay in Bali With Kids

What’s the best area to stay in Bali with kids?

For most families, Sanur is the best all-round choice thanks to its calm beaches, stroller-friendly promenade, family-friendly hotels, and central location. Ubud is perfect for nature and culture, while Nusa Dua is ideal if you’re looking for a resort holiday.

Which part of Bali is most family-friendly?

That depends on your travel style. South and East Bali are the easiest with young children thanks to family resorts, calm beaches, and shorter transfer times. Families looking for nature and culture often prefer Ubud in Central Bali.

Where should we stay for a mix of beach and sightseeing?

We’d recommend Sanur. It combines calm beaches with a central location, making it easy to take day trips to Ubud, waterfalls, temples, and other family-friendly attractions without constantly changing hotels.

Is Uluwatu suitable for kids?

Yes, especially for families with older children. Uluwatu offers beautiful beaches, cliff views, and spacious villas, but many beaches have steep stairs and stronger waves, making it less practical for babies and toddlers.

Where should we stay in Bali with a baby or toddler?

Sanur is our top recommendation. The calm beaches, flat promenade, family-friendly accommodation, supermarkets, and restaurants make traveling with little ones much easier. Ubud and Nusa Dua are also excellent choices, depending on whether you prefer nature or a resort-style holiday.

Is Sanur or Ubud better for families?

Sanur is the better choice if you want calm beaches, short transfers, and easy days with young children. Ubud is ideal if your family prefers nature, waterfalls, rice terraces, and cultural experiences. Many families choose to combine both destinations.

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