North Bali offers a tranquil escape from the bustling south, with its serene black sand beaches, world-class diving spots, and a more authentic, laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking paradise on a budget.
This guide will walk you through the best affordable accommodation options, from ultra-budget guesthouses to charming boutique hotels, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay without breaking the bank.
Understanding North Bali’s Neighborhoods: Lovina, Pemuteran, & Amed
North Bali is a region of diverse landscapes and vibes. Choosing the right area is key to crafting your perfect getaway.
Here’s a breakdown of the three main tourist hubs:
Lovina
Famous for its early morning dolphin-watching tours, Lovina is the most developed of the three areas. Its calm, black sand beaches are perfect for swimming, and the area offers a good selection of restaurants and bars. It serves as a great base for exploring nearby waterfalls and temples.
Pros: More amenities, central location for exploring, dolphin tours.
Cons: Can be slightly busier than Pemuteran or Amed.
Pemuteran
Located on the northwest coast, Pemuteran is a quiet, sleepy village known for its incredible snorkeling and diving, particularly around Menjangan Island. It’s also home to the world’s largest artificial Biorock reef project. The vibe here is peaceful and focused on underwater exploration.
Pros: World-class snorkeling/diving, very quiet and relaxed, beautiful scenery.
Cons: Fewer dining and nightlife options, more remote.
Amed
Stretching along the east coast, Amed is a string of small fishing villages. It’s a diver’s paradise, with the famous USAT Liberty shipwreck just offshore. The dramatic coastline with Mount Agung as a backdrop makes for stunning sunrises and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.
Cons: Can feel spread out, travel between villages can take time.
Ultra-Budget Accommodation (Under $15 AUD/night)
For the truly budget-conscious traveler, North Bali delivers incredible value. Expect basic but clean rooms, often with a fan, cold water shower, and a genuine, welcoming family atmosphere.
Distance from Beach: 5-minute drive to Lovina Beach
Features:
Free WiFi
Free private parking
24-hour front desk
Air conditioning available
Vibe: A simple, no-frills hotel offering a comfortable base for exploring Lovina on a shoestring budget. The friendly staff and clean rooms are its main highlights.
Cost: 120,000 IDR / $10.15 AUD per night (dorm bed)
Distance from Beach: 300m or a 4-minute walk to Lovina Beach
Features:
Swimming Pool
Free WiFi
Shared Kitchen
Air Conditioning
Vibe: A social and friendly hostel perfect for backpackers looking to meet other travelers. It has a great communal atmosphere centered around the pool.
Distance from Beach: 700m or a 9-minute walk to Amed Beach
Features:
Free WiFi
Terrace with garden views
Free private parking
Airport shuttle service
Vibe: A peaceful and authentic homestay run by a lovely local family. It’s a quiet retreat set back from the main road, offering a glimpse into Balinese life.
Distance from Beach: 600m or an 8-minute walk to Pemuteran Beach
Features:
Free WiFi
Garden
Terrace
Bicycle rental
Vibe: A charming and simple guesthouse set in a lush garden. It offers a tranquil and friendly environment, perfect for budget travelers who value peace and quiet.
Mid-Budget Accommodation ($15-50 AUD/night)
Stepping up to the mid-range, you’ll find more amenities like swimming pools, hot water, and on-site restaurants, all while maintaining excellent value.
Distance from Beach: 150m or a 2-minute walk to Pemuteran Beach
Features:
Large Swimming Pool
On-site Restaurant
Lush Gardens
Dive center affiliation
Vibe: A fantastic budget resort with a beautiful garden and a large, inviting pool. It feels more luxurious than its price tag suggests and is a favorite among divers.
Distance from Beach: 400m or a 5-minute walk to Amed Beach
Features:
Swimming Pool
Free WiFi
Terrace
Garden
Vibe: A modern and clean homestay with a lovely pool and friendly owners. It offers a comfortable and quiet stay, with easy access to the main attractions of Amed.
Distance from Beach: 500m or a 6-minute walk to the beach
Features:
Free WiFi
Terrace
Free private parking
Garden
Vibe: A simple, clean, and friendly guesthouse that gets consistently high praise for its hospitality. It’s a great value option for those who want a comfortable base for exploring the Amed coast.
Budget Boutique Accommodation ($50-90 AUD/night)
Experience a slice of luxury without the hefty price tag. These properties offer stylish rooms, excellent service, and beautiful settings, often with stunning pools and sea views.
Distance from Beach: 200m or a 3-minute walk to Lovina Beach
Features:
Outdoor Swimming Pool
Garden & Terrace
Free private parking
Beautifully designed rooms
Vibe: A chic and modern boutique hotel with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The stylish decor and lovely pool area make it feel like a special retreat.
Distance from Beach: 450m or a 6-minute walk to Pemuteran Beach
Features:
Two Swimming Pools
On-site Spa
Restaurant
Yoga classes available
Vibe: A beautiful and tranquil oasis with a focus on wellness and relaxation. The traditional Balinese architecture and lush gardens create a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Vibe: A modern and stylish resort catering to divers and beach lovers. The beachfront location and infinity pool offer a touch of luxury and convenience.
Distance from Beach: 8-minute walk to Jemeluk Beach, with a private beach area
Features:
Private Beach Area
Outdoor Swimming Pool
Garden & Terrace
Exceptional Service
Vibe: An intimate and luxurious boutique villa with stunning views and a peaceful ambiance. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic getaway or a special occasion on a budget.
Money-Saving Strategies
Book Direct: Sometimes properties offer better rates if you contact them directly via their website or WhatsApp.
Travel in the Low Season: Visiting between November and March can yield significantly lower prices on accommodation and activities.
Ask for Weekly/Monthly Rates: If you plan on staying longer, many guesthouses offer substantial discounts for extended stays.
Package Deals: Look for accommodations that offer package deals including diving, snorkeling, or tours, as this can be cheaper than booking separately.
What to Expect at Each Budget Level
Ultra-Budget: Expect a fan-cooled room with a cold-water bathroom. WiFi might be spotty. The highlight is the authentic hospitality.
Mid-Budget: You’ll likely get air-conditioning, hot water, a swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant. Rooms are more spacious and comfortable.
Budget Boutique: Look for stylish decor, high-quality service, premium amenities like a spa or yoga studio, and prime locations with beautiful views.
Location and Transportation Tips
Getting There: North Bali is a 3-4 hour drive from Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS). Arrange a private driver beforehand for the best price.
Getting Around: Renting a scooter is the most common and affordable way to explore. Expect to pay around 75,000 IDR per day. Roads are generally in good condition but can be winding and steep in some areas.
Local Transport: For shorter trips, local drivers (often found via your accommodation) are readily available.
Booking Tips and Insider Advice
Read Recent Reviews: Especially for budget places, check recent reviews on sites like Booking.com or TripAdvisor for the latest on cleanliness and service.
Black Sand vs. White Sand: Most beaches in Lovina and Amed have black volcanic sand. Pemuteran has lighter, greyish sand. For true white sand, you’ll need to visit Menjangan Island.
Embrace the Quiet: North Bali is not South Bali. Embrace the slower pace, the early nights, and the connection with nature. It’s a place to recharge, not to party.
Conclusion
North Bali is a treasure trove for budget travellers, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and incredible value. Whether you’re diving into the vibrant underwater world of Amed, watching dolphins in Lovina, or simply relaxing on the quiet shores of Pemuteran, there is an affordable and welcoming place waiting for you.
By choosing budget accommodation in North Bali, you can enjoy a longer, richer travel experience in one of Bali’s most beautiful and authentic regions.
