Bali is one of our favourite destinations to visit. It has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing time, a yoga escape, natural wonders or to party until the sun rises. If you’re a solo traveller or one that loves meeting new people from around the world, one of the following best hostels in Bali is the way forward.
In this post I’ll be breaking it up according to the area they are in – Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta, and Uluwatu to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Bali is has TONS of incredible accommodation options at great prices, making it hard to choose where to stay on your visit.
Having visited Bali 12 times in the past, and having been located in Bali for the past 4 months, it really has become a second home for me, so I know this ultimate guide to the best hostels in Bali will save you a lot of time searching and also money.
Top Tip: If you’re planning to travel to Bali or anywhere. I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to have decent travel insurance – especially if you plan on riding a scooter! I always use World Nomads on my travels and wouldn’t recommend anyone else for backpackers and long term travellers.
Which Area Is Best For Me?
A huge range of people call Bali home, and along side the local Balinese, the island has a large community of digital nomads, spiritual, yogi types, party people and fellow world travellers. Staying in a hostel will mean you’ll find some of them at in and amongst the many, many backpacker hostels in Bali.
- If you’re into yoga and the ‘eat, pray, love’ vibe then Ubud is for you. With lush tropical surrounds, monkeys swinging in the trees and a zen that will leave you relaxed and calm.
- If surfing is more your thing but you still love a somewhat hippie/raw vegan vibe and you’re a digital nomad then Canggu is the one for you.
- Love shopping, parties and great restaurants with access to the beach? Head to Seminyak.
- You’re here for a quick trip with the girls/lads? Want to party hard and surf during the day but don’t mind it being a bit trashy and full of Aussies? It’s got to be Kuta ‘mate’.
- Finally if none of these sound like you yet, Uluwatu might be the one for you. Set south of the airport, with impressive cliffs a very chilled vibe and great for more advanced surfers.
Best Hostels in Bali: Yogi Paradise of Ubud
Best All-Round Hostel: Puri Garden Hostel & Hotel
If you’re wanting a luxury hostel that has everything, from a swimming pool to free yoga classes to live music then Puri Garden is perfect. Located right in the centre of Ubud, only a few minutes walk to all the shops, cafes and the famous Yoga Barn it’s fairly premium price tag pays for itself ten fold.
This hostel is also home to a large community of expats, yogis, and digital nomads, many who prefer to live here for months at a time or year round, so you’ll easily find friendly and welcoming people to connect with.
The hostel also puts on entertainments like BBQ nights, Balinese dance nights and movie nights. In addition a variety of day trips can be organised as well as airport transfers to and from Ngurah Rai Airport in Denpasar.
They’ve also been voted as one of the most luxury hostels in the world by Hostelworld! So if you are looking for quality rather than price, you found your place!
Get the best deal on Puri Garden Hostel & Hotel here!
Best Cheap Hostel: Lagas Hostel
With dorm rooms starting at just USD$5 it’s a great option for those on a budget but also wanting to be a 10 minute walk into Ubud as well as have a friendly atmosphere with a pool to cool down in. They even offer free breakfast in the morning, free wifi in all rooms and all dorm rooms are cleaned every day. The swimming pool is also complete with a waterfall which gives you a great opportunity for the perfect Instagram photo.
They also provide English-speaking staff, tour bookings, a cafe, air conditioning in every room, laundry service and you can rent scooters from the hostel itself.
Get the best deal on Lagas Hostel here!
Best For Privacy & Digital Nomads: Pillow Inn Hostel
Most definitely those who want to relax in a boutiques soul-searching-yet-fun experience will be most at home here There’s a friendly, sociable vibe, free yoga classes every Wednesday and Friday and the sort of tasteful decor that befits a top hostel in Ubud like this one.
Created for a new generation of digital nomad travellers, Pillow Inn Ubud is truly the perfect place to relax, have some privacy but also meet like minded travellers in central Ubud. Features include – exclusively designed privacy pods in all en-suite dorms, a reading light, and safety box with a mirror to keep your small items in and also a big locker for your bag.
Get the best deal on Pillow Inn Hostel here!
Best Party Hostel: Puji Hostel
Before you think this is THE place to party, Ubud isn’t a party destination. Therefore there isn’t a proper party hostel here. However, if you’re looking for a place that you will make friends for life, a great community and staff that will go out of your way to help you then Puji Hostel may be the one for you. Unwind in the pool, hang out in the common area or walk into the centre of Ubud.
It’s possible to book all your trips with them including the Mt. Batur Sunrise trek. The dorm rooms have lockers for your valuables so it’s very secure. A great choice in Ubud if you’re a solo traveller wanting to meet others.
Get the best deal on Puji Hostel here!
Best Hostels in Bali: Surfer & Digital Nomad Hotspot of Canggu
Best All-Round Hostel: The Farm Hostel
Probably the most famous hostel around Canggu, due to it’s friendly atmosphere and modern living. Perfect for digital nomads and those wanting something a little more up market. All their rooms are air-conditioned and have an ensuite with traditional open air shower.
They also have one of the top internet providers in Bali with fibre optic WiFi from anywhere on the property, again a digital nomads requirement ticked off. They also have scooters available for hire to get round the area and to the best surf beaches. The hostel is surrounded by good restaurants and not too far from the beach, which makes its location brilliant!
Get the best deal on The Farm Hostel here!
Best Surf & Party Hostel: Lay Day Surf Hostel
Opening in September 2015 by a four-person Indonesian, American, South African and Dutch team of surfers and travellers, Lay Day Surf Hostel delivers the perfect combination of surf, party and relaxation in the heart of Canggu. It’s all about getting your stoke up whether it’s in or out of the water.
There are 16 spacious and comfortable dorms, sleeping only 4-6 people per room, all with AC, adjoining ensuite and under bed lockers. The compound also has not 1, but 4 pools to splash around in on those extra hot days!
The hostel has an awesome chill out area with multiple lounge benches all around the yard so you can relax in the sun, get your tan on and recover from the days surfing with a cold Bintang or cocktail.
Get the best deal on Lay Day Surf Hostel here!
Best Hostel For Relaxing And Socialising: Castaway Hostel
Located throughout scenic rice fields and nature but also close to Canggu’s main street and the Batu Bolong Beach. Castaway Hostel is walking distance to all you need even if you don’t rent scooters. You can also rent scooters right from reception. The owner, Putu and all the other staff are very friendly and accommodating.
The hostel’s gardens, poolside bar and large covered outdoor area offer plenty of space to chill out and relax your way through the day.
Get the best deal on Castaway Hostel here!
Best Luxury Hostel: Gypsy Moon Bali
For anyone staying at Gypsy Moon hostel you will feel right at home. Designed in a shabby chic decor, it’s one of the most modern and luxury hostels in the area. Only 2.1 km from Echo Beach and Batu Bolong Beach, it’s perfect if you’re a surfer, or just love to be a few minute scooter ride from the beach. Features include – an outdoor swimming pool, full air conditioned rooms, and a continental breakfast served every morning.
I absolutely love the whole design and concept of this luxury hostel and with a rating of 9.4 on Hostelworld, it can’t get much better!
Get the best deal on Gypsy Moon Bali Hostel here!
Best Hostels in Bali: Beach Club and Shopper Hotspot of Seminyak
Best All-Round Hostel: Capsule Hostel Bali
Winner of the 2016 and 2017 TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Awards, this hostel is hard to beat. If you like to get your party on; you love socialising from dusk till dawn; you’re looking for an international entourage or you just want to kick back, enjoy yourself and see the sights, Capsule is perfect for your stay in Seminyak.
Located in the heart of Seminyak and modelled on the unique, stylish, modern, Japanese pod hotels. This is the perfect place to party, meet people and explore Bali.
Get the best deal on Capsule Hostel Bali here!
Best Luxury Hostel: Kosta Hostel
Newly opened in 2017 this is one of Seminyak’s newest and most modern hostel. It is perfectly situated in the quiet leafy suburbs of Seminyak, and only a few minutes from Bali’s most famous stretch of beach and shopping high street by bike. The comfortable and stylish bed design and the beautiful decor make it feel more like a boutique luxury hotel than a hostel.
Features include free Wi-Fi, a pool and a beautiful sun terrace. You can also enjoy a meal on site in their own restaurant. Priding itself on its cleanliness, awesome relaxing vibe and great staff, it’s a great pick for those wanting to relax away from the bustle of central Seminyak!
Get the best deal on Kosta Hostel here!
Best Budget Hostel: Bali Green Hostel
The best hostel in Seminyak for those on a budget but still wanting a great vibe, and friendly atmosphere. They offer 8-bed Mixed Dorms, 10-bed Mixed Dorms and 6-bed Female Dorms with private bathrooms. All rooms are secured and equipped with air-conditioning and a private locker for each guest.
Even though it’s a budget hostel they still provide free breakfast and towels during your stay. There is also a surf school located within the hostel, if you’re wanting to learn how to surf.
Get the best deal on Bali Green Hostel here!
Best Atmosphere Hostel: M Boutique Hostel
The main concept of M Boutique Hostel is a comfortable and friendly vibe with modern pod style beds that gives privacy when you want. Their priority is to provide great facilities for guests to have pleasant stay with. This includes – daily housekeeping, free WiFi, free towels, free coffee & tea, hot Showers, 24 hour receptionist and a beautiful plunge pool to cool off in.
It’s proximity to all the hot spots make it one of the best hostels for solo travellers as you can easily meet people at the hostel or at one of the many beach bars like Potato Head or Mrs Sippy Day Club.
Get the best deal on M Boutique Hostel here!
Best Hostels in Bali: Party Central Kuta
Best All-Round Hostel: The Island Hotel Bali
With over 1100 reviews and an average score of over 8.5 on Hostelworld, it’s the most popular and loved hostel in the Kuta area. The rooms are priced in a way that allows people of all budgets and backgrounds to come together under one roof. Due to this, it’s designed in a way to create a place that will help you meet new friends, refresh both your body and soul, and most importantly get the most out of your Bali travel experience.
They also have an onsite cafe serving pizza, healthy alternatives and great coffee, an infinity pool, free WiFi internet, a travel desk and of course a super friendly vibe. In addition they donate 5% of your bill to charity to support the local orphanage.
Get the best deal on The Island Hostel Bali here!
Best Party Hostel: Puri Rama Hostel
One of the coolest hostels in the area, and set in a traditional Balinese style building. The swimming pool boasts the only swim-up bar at a hostel in Bali as well as a new 22 jet jacuzzi, perfect for pre parties! They have 2, 3 & 4 bed dorms all with ensuite bathroom and air-conditioning. There are also 4 grades of rooms (Basic, Standard, Superior, Deluxe).
What really makes this the best party hostel in Kuta is its proximity to all the bars and nightclubs, no need to arrange transport as it’s just a 1 minute walk to some of the best clubs in Bali. A great option for party lovers and those wanting to be right in the centre of all the Kuta action!
Get the best deal on Puri Rama Hostel here!
Best Boutique Hostel: Pudak Sari Unizou Hostel
Located just outside Kuta and within walking distance to the airport, it’s a great place to relax and rejuvenate away from the hustle and bustle of Kuta. With awesome friendly staff, fully equipped dorm rooms and an outdoor pool what more could you want?
This is a great option, if you’re wanting a modern design, close to the airport and driving distance to Kuta as well as a more private and boutique experience!
Get the best deal on Pudak Sari Unizou Hotel here!
Best Beach Hostel: H-Ostel
Located right in the heart of Kuta Square, and just a 15 minute walk to the famous Kuta Beach, perfect for relaxing, grabbing a cocktail or surfing this hostel is in the best locations for beach lovers. It is a capsule bed style hostel with facilities tailored for every travellers needs. Main necessities include – free Wi-Fi throughout the building, reading light, USB mobile charger to universal electric sockets.
There is also a rooftop bar and common area open to all guests, perfect for catching the beautiful sunset off Kuta beach.
Get the best deal on H-Ostel here!
Best Hostels in Bali: Other Areas
Best All-Round Hostel in Uluwatu: SR Hostel Uluwatu
Rated the best hostel in Uluwatu, free buffet dinner every night and rooms starting at just US$8 per night, you can’t go wrong with SR Hostel Uluwatu! The area is fairly spread out, so scooters are available to rent right from the hostel.
A great place to meet like minded travellers, and with a friendly atmosphere you’ll soon come to realise why this is voted the best hostel in Uluwatu!
Get the best deal on SR Hostel Uluwatu here!
Best All-Round Hostel in Jimbaran: Bali Bobo Hostel
This brand new luxury, purpose-built, cozy hostel in Jimbaran, is only 9 km from Ngurah Rai International airport. It provides good quality spacious beds for a good nights sleep, free breakfast, hot shower, safety & security, high standard of hygiene and cleanliness, entertainments & activities.
Not only is it located close to the airport it’s located in a quiet residential area, close to Uluwatu’s best beaches! The hostel is a family run business, you’ll arrive as a guest and leave as family.
Get the best deal on Bali Bobo Hostel here!
Best All-Round Hostel in Sanur: Cafe Locca Homestay
Sanur is the gateway to many of the neighbouring islands like Nusa Penida (read my ultimate guide to Nusa Penida), Nusa Lembongan, and The Gili Islands. Sanur also has some great cafes and beaches, so it’s a great place to stay if you want a more relaxed vibe than the west coast of Bali.
During your stay you’ll have access to free drinking water, tea and coffee throughout your stay, as well as access to a shared kitchen, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. It’s a great place to meet like-minded travellers, pick up tips and advice for your ongoing journeys, and spend some time by the pool in our lush garden area.
Get the best deal on Cafe Locca Homestay here!
Best All-Round Hostel on Nusa Lembongan: Lembongan Hostel
Just a short 30 minute boat ride from Sanur, Nusa Lembongan is a beautiful island with stunning beaches, great diving and coral breaks for surfing. The hostel is steps away from the famous Dream Beach. Mushroom Beach is only 15 minutes walk, meanwhile Sandy Bay Beach is 10 minutes walk.
Facilities include a beautiful big pool, free Wi-Fi throughout, 24-hour check-in and scooter hire is available if you’d like to explore the stunning little island by bike.
Get the best deal on Lembongan Hostel here!
Best All-Round Hostel on Gili Trawangan: My Mate’s Place Hostel
Taking around 3 hours from Sanur to Gili Trawangan, you’ll soon come to realise the fairly long boat journey is worth it. The island small enough to walk around/ride a bike has no cars or motor vehicles on the island. Amazing diving and great night life, many travellers flock to Gili T for these reasons.
With over 1100 reviews and a score of 9.5 on Hostelworld, My Mate’s Place Hostel is THE place to be in Gili T. It boasts a huge, buzzing social area where by day you can chill on one of their cozy beanbags before hitting up their bar by night to socialise with the other guests.
With great staff, free wifi, free towel hire, charging ports and free basic breakfast it’s the perfect place to stay on Gili T!
Get the best deal on My Mate’s Place Hostel here!
So there you have it! The best hostels in Bali for party lovers and meeting others. Have you stayed in any of these hostels? Which is your favourite, I’d love to know!
Don’t forget to sort out your travel insurance! I always travel with World Nomads Insurance, my favourite travel insurance provider as they are specifically suited for long term travellers and backpackers. I wouldn’t travel with anyone else.
More on Bali & Indonesia
- Ultimate Travel Guide to Nusa Penida
- Review: Semabu Hills Hostel, Nusa Penida
- 10 Things To Know Before Visiting Indonesia
- 13 Most Amazing Hotels in Indonesia
- Indonesia Travel Guide
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Wow. Such a detailed post. I think it covers all the styles of stay. thanks. 🙂
Hi Priyanka,
thanks so much! Yes there are just so many options for accommodation in Bali it can be very daunting 🙂
Happy Travels,
Emma