If you’re exploring the idea of working remotely from paradise, Bali has probably already made your shortlist. But the question remains: Where is the best place to live for digital nomads in Bali? Is Canggu or Ubud a better choice? What about the lesser-known spots like Amed or Sanur?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most digital-nomad-friendly areas in Bali — based on work infrastructure, lifestyle, cost, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned remote worker or new to the digital nomad lifestyle, this will help you make the right move.
Also read: Is Bali Good for Digital Nomads? A Guide to Remote Work in Paradise
Canggu: The Surf-Meets-Startup Hotspot
Let’s start with Canggu — arguably the most popular place for digital nomads in Bali. Located just north of Seminyak on the southwest coast, this once-sleepy surf village is now a thriving hub of coworking spaces, boutique co-living spots, and smoothie bowl cafes.
Why nomads love Canggu:
- Work Infrastructure: Home to dozens of coworking spaces like Dojo, BWork, and Outpost. Fast WiFi is the norm.
- Lifestyle: Morning surf, afternoon calls, evening networking meetups — that’s the Canggu rhythm.
- Balance & Wellness: Yoga studios are everywhere, plus healthy food is easy to find.
- Community: From cryptocurrency to digital media, creating an energetic and varied scene.
- Cost: Higher than other parts of Bali, but still affordable by Western standards.
Drawback: It’s busy. Think scooters, traffic, and rising prices. Still, most remote workers consider Canggu a rite of passage.
Pro tip: Stay in Berawa if you want quick beach access, or head toward Pererenan for a quieter vibe.
Also read: Is It Legal to Be a Digital Nomad in Bali?
Ubud: Tranquility, Temples, and Fast WiFi
If Canggu is Bali’s digital nomad playground, Ubud is its spiritual retreat. Set in the island’s lush interior, Ubud trades beaches for rice fields and late-night beach clubs for early-morning yoga.
Why nomads love Ubud:
- Work Infrastructure: Great coworking options like Outpost and Hubud with solid internet.
- Lifestyle: Home to Bali’s most famous yoga retreats and meditation centers.
- Food & Culture: Vegan warungs, art galleries, traditional dance — it’s all here.
- Cost: More affordable than Canggu, though prices have risen recently.
- Community: Perfect for those seeking a slower pace and deeper conversations.
Pro tip: Ubud is best if you’re seeking nature, personal growth, and productivity without distraction.
Also read: Digital Nomad Tax in Bali: What You Need to Know
Sanur: Sunrise Serenity and Steady Workdays
Located on Bali’s southeast coast, Sanur is a beachside town with a calmer, more local feel than Canggu or Ubud.
Highlights for remote workers:
- Easy to walk or bike around.
- Relaxed vibe, fewer parties.
- Good cafes and coworking options like Livit Hub.
- Gorgeous sunrise views over the calm sea — perfect for swimmers and early risers.
Sanur is often overlooked, but that’s what makes it special. It offers a peaceful environment with enough infrastructure to support productive remote work.
Also read: How Long Can Digital Nomads Stay in Bali? (+Consequences of Overstaying Your Visa)
Amed: Raw, Real, and Refreshingly Quiet
If you’re craving the “real Bali” and a lower cost of living, Amed could be your secret spot. Situated in East Bali, Amed is known for its black sand beaches, diving scene, and laid-back charm.
Why nomads are starting to explore Amed:
- Extremely affordable accommodation.
- Incredible diving and snorkeling.
- Fewer coworking spaces, but enough cafes and internet to get by.
- Small but growing digital nomad presence.
Pro tip: Amed is ideal for deep work sessions and creative projects — especially if you enjoy solitude and slow travel.
Uluwatu: For Surfing and Solitude
For nomads who work best in seclusion — and want world-class waves — Uluwatu is a dream. Located on the Bukit Peninsula, it’s a spread-out area that prioritizes surfboards over laptops.
What to expect:
- Epic waves and cliffside views.
- Villas and guesthouses more than coworking spots.
- Scattered cafes and bars — transport is essential.
- Internet is decent, but it’s not the main draw.
Perfect for surf junkies who don’t need a big nomad community or instant access to social events.
Also read: Where to Go in Bali: A Guide to 25 Best Places to Visit
Most guides compare Bali’s nomad destinations based on beaches and coworking access. But don’t underestimate the importance of personal fit. Some thrive in the hustle of Canggu, others find their flow in Ubud’s stillness. And places like Sanur or Amed offer new frontiers for those wanting something different.
Also read: Is Canggu or Ubud Better for Digital Nomads? (A Complete Comparison)
Regardless of your chosen base, Bali continues to rank among the top global spots for digital nomads — thanks not only to its affordability and climate, but also its unique blend of focus-friendly environments and a peaceful lifestyle.
If you’re serious about working remotely in paradise, make sure you secure the proper documents, follow immigration law, and avoid anything that could jeopardize your stay.
For hassle-free legal registration, you can rely on InvestinAsia’s Indonesia Remote work E33G Visa/KITAS Application Service.
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