Bali is one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads — and for good reason. It’s affordable, filled with beautiful places to work from, and has endless options for downtime when you close your laptop.

If you want a work trip that’s both productive and relaxing, Bali can deliver.

This guide will walk you through a luxe but practical workacation plan, starting from the busier networking spots to the quieter escapes.

Start in Canggu — Try the Trendiest Cafes and Beach Clubs

Begin in Canggu if you want a lively few days: it’s full of cafes, co-working spaces, and easy ways to meet other people. Spend 2–4 days here testing spots, sorting logistics, and getting a feel for the island.

Places to check out:

• Avocado Factory — the best avocado toasts in Bali + amazing coffee.
• Ms Ginger — healthy menu and comfortable seating for longer work sessions.
• La Brisa — beachfront venue with a relaxed atmosphere; good for late-afternoon hours.
• Cafe del Mar — Mediterranean-style beach club; nice spot for a long lunch or sunset.
• Mari Beach club – for boho luxury vibes and sunset hour.

Mari Beach Club, Canggu, Bali

What to do in Canggu:

• Try a few cafes to find the ones with both comfort and decent Wi-Fi.
• Buy a local SIM card (Telkomsel is a common choice) so you have backup data.
• If you need longer focused time, book a day at a coworking space.
• Use Canggu to sort any logistics: SIM, local cash, scooter rental, and drivers for later legs of the trip.

Notes: Canggu is busy and has traffic. It can be shocking for some and I don’t really recommend staying here for long time, unless you absolutely love the hustle and bustle.

I suggest treating it as your starting hub, not your whole trip.

Move to Uluwatu — Calmer Beaches, Great Day Clubs, and Cliff Views

After Canggu, go south to Uluwatu for quieter days and excellent cliffside views. It’s less hectic, and the beach clubs here are more chill than party-heavy — perfect for a work/lunch/break rhythm.

Uluwatu is my absolutely go-to place because it really has it all.

Top spots and why they work:

• Sundays Beach Club — private beach access and comfortable daybeds. Good for a full day away from crowds.
• The Edge – Day club on the cliff (yes literally the pool is on the cliff, see pic below!).
• La Palmilla (Palmilla Bali) — boho-style beach club with a relaxed vibe and decent food.
• Ulu Cliff House — stylish setting with strong views; good for an afternoon or sunset drink.
• Dreamsea Surf Camp — if you want to try surfing, it’s a solid choice; if not, the area is still worth visiting for the scenery and a casual meal.

The Edge, Uluwatu, Bali

Palmilla Bali, Uluwatu, Bali

View from Dream Sea, Uluwatu, Bali

How to structure your day in Uluwatu:

• Work a focused block in the morning (2–4 hours).
• Head to a beach club for a late-morning swim or lunch.
• Reserve the late afternoon for light work or reading, and finish with sunset.

Booking tip: book daybeds or tables ahead for weekends or high season — spots like Sundays Beach Club fill up.

Sidemen: Quiet Hills and Rice-Terrace Paths

This is the Bali most people don’t talk about—but anyone who’s truly found peace here gets it. Sidemen is built around rice terraces, minimal traffic, and mornings that start with birds more than cars or scooters.

It’s not busy, but sitting by a villa pool, watching Mount Agung in the distance? That hits differently.

View from our villa Kubu Tani, Sidemen

What I’d actually do:

• Stay at a small villa like Veluvana Bali or Laputa Villa (a luxury eco retreat that has this “world-waking-up” stillness)
• Jump on your scooter early and walk through serene rice paths while farmers go about their day.
• Wake up with a guide and trek through the terraces or local waterfalls like Gembleng or Tukad Cepung—few tourists and real Instagram quiet.
• Try a weaving workshop at Pelangi, or make silver jewelry at Agung Silver —hands-on culture with locals.
• If you want a taste of local life, visit the early market or take a private scooter tour through the valley—markets, waterfalls, and craft stops included.

Sidemen is where I would park myself for a few days of deep work, slow meals, and headspace. Real quiet, real views, real “me again” time.

Ubud: Quiet Still Counted In Coffee Shops

If Sidemen feels a bit offline, Ubud offers a gentler mix of quiet mornings and accessible cafes.

What to enjoy here:

• Find coziest cafes with Wi-Fi tall enough for a morning of work—Clear Cafe and Zest are crowd-favorites.
• When you need a break, wander the Campuhan Ridge or shop in boutiques for Bali textiles.
• Mix in wellness—there are more spas, sound-healing sessions, and healing spaces in Ubud than you can count.

It’s quieter than the bars of Seminyak or the chaos of Canggu, but still has a social pulse if you don’t want total silence.

Finish on the East Coast: Amed for Snorkeling and Local Food

Ending your Bali trip in Amed is like taking a deep exhale. It’s far from the busier tourist centers, with a slower rhythm and a focus on the sea. We went to Amed and thought that it’s not that special, but we fell in love and came back so many times.

Amed is best for snorkeling, diving, relaxed beach days, and winding down before flying home.

View from Sunset Point, Amed

Santai Bali and their bungalows are in the first picture. Second picture is a view from our room in Dive Resort Amed.

The rice field was a view on our way to Amed, unfortunately I have no idea what is the name of the spot.

Where to stay:

• Santai Bali — beachfront bungalows with easy access to the water. Perfect for rolling out of bed and into the sea. (See pics below!)
• Other options: Smaller family-run stays like Coral View Villas or Baliku Dive Resort. These often include breakfast and have staff who can arrange boat trips or transfers.

What to do in Amed:

• Snorkeling from the shore: Many beaches here (like Jemeluk Bay) have coral reefs and colorful fish right off the sand. Just rent gear from a local shop or buy your own.
• Hire a local boat: For better reef spots or shipwrecks like the USAT Liberty in nearby Tulamben, a morning boat trip is worth it.
• Diving: Amed is a well-known diving hub with schools offering everything from beginner sessions to advanced wreck dives.
• Slow meals: Visit small warungs for fresh grilled fish, nasi campur, or simple curries. Evenings are often quiet, so this is a good time to watch the sunset over the mountains or the water.

Why Amed is the perfect final stop:

After moving around Bali’s different regions, Amed offers the space to rest and reflect before heading home. There’s little nightlife, minimal traffic, and a focus on natural beauty.

It’s the kind of place where you’ll likely put your phone down without thinking about it — not because you’re trying to, but because there’s simply more to look at in real life.

Getting Around, Internet, and Safety

Getting around

• If you’re comfortable on a scooter, renting one is the cheapest option for short trips. Always wear a helmet and be cautious — traffic can be hectic.
• For longer transfers (Canggu → Uluwatu → Sidemen → Amed), hire a driver for the day or book a transfer. It’s easier and safer, especially if you’re carrying luggage or equipment.
• Use ride apps like Gojek or Grab for short rides and food delivery.

Internet

• Most cafes and private villas have decent Wi-Fi, but don’t rely on a single spot for important calls. Bring a phone hotspot (local SIM) as a backup.
• If you need stable, guaranteed internet, book accommodation that lists fast Wi-Fi and read recent reviews.

Safety and money

• Carry some cash for small purchases, markets, and local transport. ATMs are common in tourist areas but can run out sometimes.
• Keep valuables secured and be cautious with electronics on crowded streets or beaches.

What to Pack

• Lightweight clothes (linen, cotton), a light sweater for indoors/aircon.
• 2 swimsuits, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Comfortable sandals and a pair of trainers for walking.
• Power bank and travel adapter.
• A small tripod or phone grip if you plan to take brand photos.
• Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and basic personal meds.
• Waterproof phone case or dry bag for boat days.

Suggested 10–14 day Itinerary

10-day example

• Days 1–3: Canggu — cafes, SIM, scooter rental, meet people.
• Days 4–6: Uluwatu — beach clubs, short surf session or lunch with a view.
• Days 7–8: Sidemen or Ubud — quiet work days, rice fields, short walks.
• Days 9–10: Amed — snorkeling, slow meals, rest.

14-day option

Extend any leg if you want more time. Add a day trip to Nusa Penida from Sanur if you want dramatic cliffs and a day-out experience.

Photo and Content Tips (If You Want Brand Photos)

• Book a villa or photographer for one morning if you want quality images — it’s often affordable and saves time. You can find tons of photographers from IG, just type Bali photographer to the search bar and you’ll find some!
• Bring a small, neutral wardrobe: linen dresses, simple tops, and natural makeup.
• Use golden hour for photos (early morning or late afternoon) for flattering light.
• My favorite villas for brand photoshoots are Casa Nomada Bali and Casa Blooms

Casa Nomada, Bali (located in Canggu) around 80 USD/1h photoshoot rental

Casa Blooms, Bali (located in Canggu) around 70 USD/1h photoshoot rental

Final Practical Notes

• Reserve popular beach clubs or restaurants on weekends and during high season.
• Be flexible — weather can change, and plans often shift.
• Be prepared for more rain during rainy season in Bali (typically falls between November to April)
• Balance your schedule: prioritize 2–4 focused working hours per day so you still get to enjoy the island.

Bali is a great place to mix work and relaxation. From the busy cafes in Canggu to the quiet rice fields in Sidemen and the calm beaches of Amed, you can create a trip that helps you get things done without feeling overwhelmed.

And I can tell, once you travel to Bali, you’ll just keep coming back. It’s such a magical island and so worth the long flight too.