Bali was voted the top island in Asia for a reason, but it’s certainly not without its flaws or controversies.

Bali tourists absolutely love it here and can be very protective of its image.

The 2024 version is far removed from the romanticized Eat Pray Love portrayal as a far-flung destination to go off and find yourself.

Bali today is jam-packed with tourists. Depending who you ask, certain areas get mixed reviews on if it’s worth visiting as some areas have lost their authenticity.

One of the more popular destinations to visit is Canggu, a beautiful beach town lined with resorts, nice restaurants, shopping outlets, and a buzzing nightlife scene.

There’s definitely an appeal to visiting, but with Canggu’s intense traffic and overflowing crowds, these 4 other regions are beginning to take the spotlight.

Move over Canggu! These 4 regions of Bali are rising fast:

Seseh

Aerial view of Seseh beach

Seseh isn’t fully equipped to take the entire crowds away from Canggu, but it’s underway in becoming the new hot ticket.

Rapidly transforming before tourists’ eyes, this untouched region of the southwest coast of Bali is expected to become a luxe resort town.

While resorts can take away from authenticity, Seseh currently finds itself in a Goldilocks zone that is not too developed and not too boring.

As you surely know, Bali is a phenomenal choice for beach getaways and only gets better away from the crowds.

Black sand beach in Seseh

Seseh is just the place…for now.

Whether you’re into surfing or simply lounging at the beach, paradise awaits in Seseh with beautiful blue waters, black sand beaches, and some of Bali’s most underrated beach stays like Uma Pantai Seseh.

Munduk

Circling back to why Bali has been voted the top Asian island, it’s not only pristine beaches and rich culture.

Trekking into the lush jungles are one of the best experiences of the island with hidden treasures like postcard-worthy waterfalls such as Munduk Waterfall and Banyumala Twin Waterfall.

Female tourist visiting waterfall in Munduk forest

Rural Bali is more of the Eat Pray Love that still exists but often goes overlooked by partiers and surfers flocking to Canggu.

With Canggu’s “hippie” scene dying down, places like Munduk become more appealing to immerse yourself in nature for a more blissful Bali trip where you can stay in lavish eco-resorts and retreats.

Definitely a destination for adventurers, Munduk is on the opposite end of the spectrum from Bali’s famous beach parties.

This untouched tranquil region is perfect for a reset for some truly fresh air amidst endless stunning scenery from majestic lakes to cascading waterfalls.

Luxe villa in Munuk jungle

But wherever Munduk takes you, make sure to start your day with a fresh cup of joe, as this area is teeming with coffee plantations.

Medewi

Surfers simply shouldn’t look elsewhere. Whether it’s your first time stepping on a board and continuously crashing or you’re a seasoned surfer in search of the best breaks, Medewi is not only fun to say, but even more fun to surf.

There are multiple surf lessons offered here to learn the ropes or hone your skills, but there is also so much more to experience than riding the scenic waves along pure black sand beaches.

Black sand beach in Medewi

Medewi has a rich culture deeply engrained into their community, with captivating temples to visit for photo-ops and to witness traditional ceremonies.

Yogis will love ample ways to find their Zen as health and wellness are a way of life around here, from high-end spas to yoga classes for beginners or advanced levels to pretzel yourself.

Best of all, it’s super cheap with nice stays like the Medewi Bay Retreat only $25 per night.

Sideman

Bali truly does have it all – amazing beaches, mesmerizing waterfalls, and stunning wide open spaces, which is what you’ll find in Sideman.

Lush green rice terraces of Sideman, Bali

A peaceful farming community located in the valleys of central east Bali, far away from the hustle and bustle, if unwinding is your Bali vibe, then look no further.

There is only so much you can see and do on an island, but Sidemen may hold the title for “most peaceful vacation” in this rural side with gorgeous temples and quaint villages.

Imagine waking up to seemingly endless rice terraces backdropped by the stunning Mount Agung volcano, and yes, it is active!

Despite being off the radar for many, Sideman does pack a punch. Tourists have a full range of yoga classes to whitewater rafting, and it’s close enough to even more lesser-known beach towns like Candidasa, just half an hour away.

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