10 Best Guesthouses & Boutique Resorts in Bali—Handpicked by a Bali Travel Expert
Table of Contents
A hotel can make or break your trip. That’s not hyperbole—it’s a cold, hard truth. Sure, you’ll look for the obvious: a boutique resort in Bali with a location that doesn’t suck, a guesthouse with an infinity pool that catches the sun at just the right angle, maybe a bed that doesn’t feel like it was built in the ’70s. But the real weight of a place? It’s in the things you can’t measure, the things that don’t fit neatly into a five-star review.
It’s in how a guesthouse in Bali smells in the morning, how the boutique resort staff makes you feel after a long day, or the way the light hits your balcony just as you’re sipping a cold beer, lost in thought. A great stay for solo female travelers and couples doesn’t just offer you comfort—it changes the tempo of your trip, and sometimes, it changes you. I’m a Bali travel expert, and after spending a month hopping between 10 of the best boutique resorts and guesthouses in Bali, I’m here to tell you which ones are truly worth your time.
Take Samanvaya, the adults-only resort and spa in Sidemen, where I spent four unforgettable nights. This place wasn’t just a spot to sleep—it was the stage for my next act. I showed up knowing I was standing at some kind of crossroads in my life and career, a new chapter itching to begin but not yet fully written. Samanvaya Boutique Resort in Bali held me in this bubble while I unraveled. It gave me time. Between swims, Aperol spritzes, and motorbike rides that carved through the jungle, I let go of the usual mental noise—my relentless need to go, go, go. And somewhere in the silence, the universe tapped me on the shoulder and whispered, This is what’s next.
But let’s not romanticize this resort too much. There was also the humble homestay at the beach in Amed—a rough, no-shoes, salt-in-your-hair, toes-in-the-ocean kind of place where luxury wasn’t even in the vocabulary. I snorkeled, picked trash off the beach, and didn’t bother looking in a mirror for days. It wasn’t glam, but that’s the point. It didn’t need to be. I didn’t need it to be. It let me tap into that primal, wild part of myself—the version of me that doesn’t give a damn about Instagram aesthetics or room service. Village Alexa, raw and free.
Let's Plan Your Bali Trip
So, are you searching for a boutique resort in Bali that wraps you in comfort and lets you breathe, or do you need a guesthouse that challenges you, strips you down, and reminds you who you are?
Here’s every Bali hotel, resort, and guesthouse I stayed in on this trip—and what I really thought about each one.
But first, did you know that I’m the author of the #1 best selling travel guidebook to Bali?
Get The Solo Girl’s Travel Guide: Bali by me, Alexa West, to plan the ultimate Bali trip to fulfill your Bali Bucket list (and budget).
My one-month Bali itinerary
My trip went like this: You can get the full itinerary here: (link to)
▸ Sanur: 2 nights
▸ Canggu: 4 nights
▸ Amed: 4 nights
▸ Ubud: 6 nights
▸ Sidemen: 4 nights
▸ Ubud: 8 nights
The best hotels, resorts and guesthouses for solo female travelers & couples
Where to Stay in Sanur
Sanur: Who’s It For?
✔️ Families looking for a low-key coastal vibe with calm beaches and easy accessibility.
✔️ Travelers on a stopover between the Nusa Islands and Ngurah Rai Airport, needing a convenient and comfortable place to stay.
Sanur isn’t the kind of place that usually makes it onto Bali’s must-visit lists, if I’m honest. This place is more for convenience.
This isn’t where I’d send a solo traveler searching for that classic Bali magic, but if you’re looking for 24 hours of calm, clean beaches, and solid spa time (plus a stop at Sephora in Icon Mall), Sanur deserves a spot on your Bali itinerary.
Where I Stayed in Sanur
✧ Hyatt Regency Sanur
♡ Best for: Spending Hotel Points & Beachfront Relaxation in Bali
If you’ve got hotel points or elite status burning a hole in your pocket, this is the place to cash them in. Hyatt Sanur Bali delivers exactly what you’d expect—polished beachfront comfort with a laid-back, resort-style stay. The beach in Sanur is quiet and calm—no wild waves, no chaos—making it perfect for unwinding before a flight or after an island-hopping adventure.
But here’s the thing: if you’re not redeeming points or chasing hotel loyalty perks, I’d say skip it. Sanur isn’t the place to splurge unless you’re here for a very specific reason, like a stress-free stopover or a family-friendly beachfront retreat.
Best for: Boutique Hotel Lovers & Stylish Stopovers in Bali
This hidden gem in Sanur is a boutique hotel dream, drenched in soft pinks and tropical greens. It has that Instagram-worthy charm without feeling forced, and if your love language is surprises, you’ll love the thoughtful little extras they include.
The pool may be small, but it’s effortlessly chic and inviting—the easiest place to start chatting with fellow travelers.
Pro Tip: If you’re curious about what these hotels actually look like, check out my Instagram highlights. Click the destinations to see these spots come to life.
Where to Stay in Canggu
Canggu stole my heart again on this trip. Yes, the traffic is still insane, and the “Instagram baddie” energy is alive and well, but hear me out: when you do it right, Canggu is magic.
This little corner of Bali has an energy that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s alive with creativity—everywhere you look, there’s something inspiring: gorgeous boutiques, incredible spas, and cafes that feel like they’ve been designed just for you. And when you find the right place to stay, everything clicks into place.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: whenever you hear someone say, “Bali is too touristy,” I can guarantee it’s because they came to Canggu and never left. They didn’t explore the quiet villages, spend an early morning with a local fisherman in Amed, or attend a water purification ceremony in Ubud. Which, let’s be honest, probably means they didn’t read my best-selling Bali travel guide or sign up for my newsletter—because if they did, they’d know better.
I spent four girly, glam nights in Canggu, and it was everything I didn’t know I needed. The secret? Staying somewhere walkable so you’re not stuck in Canggu’s infamous traffic (and if you do need to get around, take a GrabBike instead of a car—it’ll save you from moving at a snail’s pace).
My favorite Canggu boutique hotel put me steps away from the best spas, trendiest restaurants, and Batu Bolong Beach. Suddenly, Canggu wasn’t chaos—it was effortless.
Canggu: Who’s It For?
•Travelers seeking boutique luxury with a walkable, beachside vibe.
•Solo female travelers looking for glam, nightlife, and connection.
•Anyone craving massages, sunsets, fitness, and boutique shopping.
Where to Stay in Canggu
• Best for: Solo female travelers, chic vibes, safety, and instant connection.
•With just eight boutique-style rooms and a social pool area, this is the perfect place to meet like-minded women exploring Bali solo—especially those following my travel guides and advice.
Welcome to the (unofficial) official Solo Girl’s Clubhouse! I’ve talked to the owners, they are excited to welcome my flock of travelers. Love Song is everything you dreamed of: a sparkling pool with a swim-up bar, and a design aesthetic that’s equal parts Barbie dream house and functional paradise.
From the moment I walked in, I had a “this is the place” moment.
The Vibe: Girly, glam, and unapologetically fun.
The Location: I could walk to the best of the best. I treated myself to a massage every day, went on solo dinner dates at nearby restaurants, and came back to Love Song to work and relax. I booked three nights and stayed four because I didn’t want to leave.
♡ The Secret to Loving Canggu:
Skip the traffic madness. Stay somewhere walkable like Love Song, where you’re steps away from Canggu’s best spas, shopping, and dining.
Ps. While I was here, I got lip filler and botox in Canggu. Then came back and watched documentaries as my face healed.
Canggu is everything you make it—chaotic and vibrant, but also beautiful and inspiring — and a great base for beauty tourism. Love Song turned Canggu into a place I didn’t want to leave, and I know it can do the same for you.
(And seriously, read my guidebook or join my newsletter before you come to Bali—don’t be that clueless person that ends up hating Bali because they did it wrong.)
Where to Stay in Amed
Want to experience the real Bali? The Bali where mornings begin in the dark with the soft woosh woosh woosh of fishermen pushing their jukung boats into the water, heading out to catch the fish that will feed their families or sell at the market? Amed is that Bali.
It’s the kind of place where time slows down, where life feels rough around the edges but deeply authentic. The hospitality, the energy, and the jaw-dropping scenery make Amed one of the most culturally rich destinations on the island.
But Amed isn’t for everyone. This is a village, not a five-star luxury vacation in Bali. Life here is simple, and the charm is in its simplicity. It has just enough for travelers—guesthouses, local and western restaurants (don’t skip sunset dinners at Warung Mewali), and some of the best snorkeling and diving in Bali. Especially if, like me, you prefer calmer waters over the wavy chaos of the Nusa islands.
This is where I became human again.
Amed: Who’s It For?
▸ Travelers seeking Balinese culture.
▸ Divers, snorkelers, and anyone who loves the ocean.
▸ Those who don’t mind a bit of “rough around the edges” in exchange for breathtaking moments.
Where to Stay in Amed
Best for: Solo snorkelers, divers, and ocean lovers
This was the spot where I rented a snorkel, walked straight into the ocean, and found myself swimming among pink corals and fish so big they startled me. And I did it all on my own — totally solo like a brave girl. Puri Wirata has a beachfront pool (perfect for chatting with locals), a spa with views, and ocean-view rooms if you choose wisely.
I owe this gem to my friend and mermaid sister, Anna. Anna, a Belgian expat, has lived in Amed for nearly a decade, owns Seek n Dive, and used to work at Puri Wirata’s dive center. Her seal of approval meant everything, and she was spot on.
Location: Right on Amed’s beachfront, with incredible snorkeling just steps from your room. Walk to Gusto Restaurant (order the steak—it’s the cheapest and most delicious steak you’ll ever have), but note that Puri Wirata is a little removed from the main drag near Rimba Cafe.
Pro Tip: Walk north along the beach and you’ll reach Lipa Beach with the only sandy shores in the area; Amed is a rocky beach.
Best for: Travelers wanting beachfront bliss and proximity to the action
When my favorite beachfront bungalows (Solaluna) were sold out, I landed at Putra’Lebah, and it didn’t disappoint. Big, clean villas with ocean views and a bathtub—this was a perfect one-night stay.
I loved being close to my favorite stretch of beach, where local kids splash and play in the evenings, and near Rimba Cafe, Alala Massage, and the best live music in Amed.
Location: Beachfront (check out my Instagram highlights to see it!). Across the street from Rimba, and within walking distance to cafes, massage spots, and more.
Warning (or blessing): Live music at Wawa-Wewe Beach Warung next door runs Wednesday through Saturday until 11pm. You can either lay in your bed and be annoyed or you can join!
Final Thoughts on Amed
Why come to Amed?
Best for: Budget travelers, ocean lovers, and hidden-gem seekers.
This is where you go to disconnect from the outside world and dive into something real. Coconut Warung is a family-run guesthouse in Bali with private bungalows, a tropical garden, and lounge chairs perfect for sipping a fresh coconut and forgetting the word “shoes.”
Let’s be clear: the villas are budget. But you’re not here for perfection. You’re here for the unbeatable beachfront location, the warm hospitality, and the grilled fish platters that will make you swoon. The real highlight? Snorkeling for free. Just rent fins, a mask, and a snorkel for 80K IDR per day, and you can walk straight into the ocean to explore healthy, vibrant coral and freediving spots just steps from shore. On a good day, you might even swim alongside Bali’s sea turtles.
Location: A quieter, more local area of Amed called Jemluk Bay. Surrounded by fishing boats and authentic warungs (but check my guidebook for the few spots worth eating at).
Pro Tip: Spend a day giving back. My German friend from Pick It Up and I collected trash on the beach. In 90 minutes, we collected 5 kilos. Some man even came to thank us. I loved it. Hand your trash bag to the warung owners—they’ll dispose of it for you. Order a collection of PickItUps before you travel, and hand a few out to new friends — invite them to join for a beach clean up.
Come here with the mission or reattaching your umbilical chord to Mother Earth. Amed is raw, real, and utterly unforgettable. Join a fishing trip with my friend Ketut from Seek n Dive (I documented my morning here). Spend your mornings listening to the fishermen head out to sea and your afternoons snorkeling among vibrant coral. Life here isn’t polished — but maybe that’s what you need. It’s what I needed.
Where to Stay in Sidemen
Sidemen feels like stepping into another world—a world where mornings start with the soft rustle of rice fields and the golden light of dawn creeping over the hills. This is the Bali you dream about, the Bali that calls you back to yourself…or to an iced coffee in your tropical private pool villa.
Here, life slows down. The air feels fresher, the smiles are genuine, and there’s a kind of magic in the quiet. It’s a place for those seeking connection—not just to the island, but to their own sense of balance. And yet, there’s no shortage of luxury. Sidemen offers it in a way that’s understated and deeply tied to the land, making it feel indulgent and authentic at the same time.
At the heart of this haven is Samanvaya Luxury Resort & Spa, my favorite resort in all of Bali—maybe the world. It’s where culture, luxury, nature, healing, and adventure come together in perfect harmony. Every time I visit, I’m reminded that travel is about more than just going somewhere new. It’s about transformation.
Sidemen: Who’s It For?
▸Travelers seeking a soulful escape far from the noise.
▸ Those who crave luxury but don’t want to sacrifice authenticity.
▸ Anyone who wants to leave Bali feeling changed—in the best way. breathtaking moments.
Where to Stay in Sidemen
Best for: Living in harmony with Bali, in the most luxurious way possible.
This isn’t just a resort—it’s my sanctuary. I’ve stayed here five times since 2018, and every visit feels like coming home. The staff, all from the local village, treat you like family. They remember my name, my stories, even my favorite dishes.
Samanvaya is where I go to heal, to reflect, and to emerge as a better version of myself. The villa above is called Samudra (highly recommend).
Fun Fact: The owners, a kiwi couple, used to be police detectives in New Zealand. Tracey is a dear friend of mine after all these years and recently I asked her, “how did this happen; how did you go from detective to design genius?” A) the art has always been in her apparently and b) she says that the attention to detail you need to have as a police officer has translated perfectly to the attention to detail you need to have in order to run a resort as seamlessly as this.
Every time I come here, I am left dumbfounded. You’ll get it.
Ps I love their Spa
Ananda Spa is a spiritual experience. Whether you’re indulging in a traditional Balinese massage or experiencing a chakra healing session with a local healer, the treatments feel transformative. It’s not just relaxation—it’s renewal.
And let me be clear: this is not a sponsored post. I don’t get paid to rave about Samanvaya. I don’t even make commission. I recommen booking directly with them for best deals and packages. They really are the best resort in Bali, if you ask me.
Where to Stay in Ubud
When I visit Bali these days, I base myself in Ubud, Bali because it has everything I need—unforgettable culinary experiences (I’m a foodie, after all), charming boutique shopping, some of the best spas on the island, and a sense of solo female travel safety that helps me let my guard down and just be.
Yes, the center of town is busy, and tourists are everywhere—you won’t escape them. But as you move to the outskirts, you get more greenery and fewer tourists. Sprawling rice fields, hidden healers, yoga sanctuaries, and secret spots waiting to be discovered.
Here’s where I stayed, found inspiration, and indulged in Ubud’s best.
Where to Stay in Ubud
Best for: Peace, indulgence, and stretching your time noodle.
Sitting at dinner, solo, reading my book, indulging in my three-course menu with a glass of red from Chile and a molten lava cake, a thought came to me: “If time was a noodle, I would stretch it.” Emilia and I now look for “time noodles”—those moments so perfect you wish they’d never end.
I found plenty of those moments at Ubud Mathis. Whether I was sitting in a kubu (a reimagined farmer’s hut with bean bag chairs and Wi-Fi) during a rainstorm, swimming in the infinity pool under palm trees, or soaking in the big bathtub in my villa, every second felt like a chance to pause, reflect, and savor.
What I Loved:
The Dining: A three-course menu at their restaurant will have you hooked. It’s indulgent, affordable, and pairs beautifully with their wine selection.
The Vibe: Ubud Mathis is tucked away from the busy center, offering peace and quiet, yet it’s close enough to easily access the best of Ubud.
Moments of Adventure: One day, I walked to the Ritz-Carlton in the pouring jungle rain (with a Mathis umbrella, of course) for sushi at Ambar Bar. On my way back, I stopped at a roadside shop, chatted with the couple who owned it (in Bahasa Indonesia, if I may brag), and managed to keep up with their minute-by-minute observations about bules and traffic.
Good to Know: The Wi-Fi was strong enough to write this blog but not quite enough for Emilia and me to record our True Crime Travelers podcast.
Best for: Solo girls and our Ubud clubhouse vibes.
Bisma Cottages is my home away from home in Ubud. Owned by Kelly, a solo female traveler, this cozy six-room guesthouse is designed with us in mind. Every time I stay here, I meet other solo female travelers—usually with my Bali guidebook in hand—and we end up sharing stories, meals, and laughs.
One time, I walked past the pool, made small talk with a guest, and she said, “Are you Alexa? I’m here because of you.” It was surreal and now I’m meeting her for dinner in 15 minutes. That’s the magic of Bisma Cottages—it feels like OUR community.
What I Loved:
📍 The Location: Jalan Bisma is close enough to walk everywhere but tucked just behind the city center for peace and quiet.
🛏️ The Rooms: For longer stays, I love the deluxe room with a kitchen and workspace. For shorter trips, the bungalows offer a perfect mix of Bali vibes and comfort.
👙 The Pool: Floating breakfasts, tanning days, and spontaneous poolside chats are the vibe here.
🛵 The Tours: Kelly’s curated adventures, like water purification ceremonies and Mt. Agung hikes, are so thoughtful, even I, a non-tour person, am impressed.
⚡ Pro Tip: Book directly and let Kelly know you’re part of my flock—she’ll go above and beyond to make your stay perfect.
This hotel is on the edge of Monkey Forest, connected by the main road by a little cobblestone road, so you can walk to town!
Plus their restaurants is one of my favorite is Bali! Eat all the hummus, falafel, and pita you can!
The only downside? The Wi-Fi isn’t super strong so plan to bring a book and a journal.
Have a glimpse of this hotel here:
🌟 Best for: Luxury travelers, boutique hotel lovers, and solo travelers looking for a peaceful retreat.
This boutique hotel in Ubud had been on my wish list for years, and it was worth the wait. With a small collection of boutique villas, it feels like a private sanctuary—secluded but still close to everything. I booked it as the final stop on my month-long Bali trip because I wanted a quiet place to reflect and recharge before I flew back to the USA.
👣 What to Do: Walk to Sweet Orange Warung and follow the scenic rice paddy trail. It’s an easy, peaceful stroll—perfect for journaling or just taking in the view. When you get back, book an in-room massage and let the trip sink in.
Let me help you plan.
How many people can say their Bali trip was planned by THE Bali expert? (answer: only those who book a trip planning call).
- Have your rough itinerary or bucket list ready.
- I’ll map our your trip based on your budget and goals.
- And send you an easy-to-follow customized itinerary.
Stay Tuned for my Next Bali Trip
(with my boyfriend)
So, you’ve wandered through Ubud’s rice paddies, indulged in spa treatments that should be illegal, and maybe even had a life-altering moment over a green juice. Now what? Ubud isn’t just a stop on your Bali itinerary—it’s a place that lingers. The question isn’t if you’ll come back, but when.
Whether you’re chasing boutique luxury, deep introspection, or just the perfect sunrise over the jungle, Ubud delivers. And if you’re anything like me, your next trip is already in the works.
This March, Emilia and I are returning—but this time, we’re bringing our boyfriends. It’s our first couples’ trip, marking a new chapter in my travel journey. The Solo Girls Travel Guide is evolving into Alexa West Guides, and I can’t wait to share everything we discover.
Have a hotel or villa in Ubud I need to check out? Let me know—I’m always searching for new gems.
See you soon, Bali.
xoxo, Alexa
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I'm a bestselling author, hotel reviewer and pickleball player. I teach women how to travel the world solo without going broke or getting kidnapped.
In 2011, I left Seattle with just $200 in my pocket to travel the world solo. Today, I'm the founder and creator of The Solo Girl’s Travel Guide, the #1 travel guide book series for women - and the author of The One-Way Ticket Plan.
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