Where to stay in Jimbaran

The central stretch of Jimbaran Bay has the widest, calmest part of the beach and the best-known cluster of beachfront seafood warungs, where tables are set on the sand for grilled fish at sunset. Accommodation ranges from mid-range hotels to villas set back from the shore. The bay is sheltered and good for swimming, a contrast to the surf beaches further round the peninsula. It is a short ride from the airport, though the beachfront restaurants can get busy and touristy at dinner.

Kedonganan is the fishing village at the northern end of the bay, home to Jimbaran's morning fish market and a line of seafood grills that are generally cheaper and more local than those in the centre. The beach here is working shoreline as well as leisure, with boats drawn up on the sand. It suits travellers who want fresh seafood and a more everyday feel. Accommodation is more limited than in the central bay, and the market end can smell of the day's catch.

The southern end of Jimbaran Bay and the cliffs rising towards the Bukit hold many of the area's high-end resorts, with private beaches, spas and views over the bay towards the airport and the sea. It is the quietest and most exclusive part of Jimbaran, better suited to a resort-focused stay than a walkable base. The Garuda Wisnu Kencana cultural park is a short drive inland. Reaching the seafood grills and the market means a ride down to the bay.