9 Best Places like Bali for Beaches & Nightlife
Bali has long fascinated travelers worldwide with its lush landscapes, tropical beaches, waterfalls, yoga retreats, and island lifestyle.
But while Bali is iconic, it’s also become heavily touristed. If you’ve already been, or if you’re seeking places like Bali with a slightly different vibe, there are plenty of alternatives to explore.
Each of these nine places offers some of what makes Bali special, whether it’s stunning beaches, a bohemian atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, or wellness culture.
From Southeast Asia to Europe and Latin America, these are the best Bali alternatives to consider for your next trip.
Lombok, Indonesia
Why it’s like Bali: Lombok is Bali’s quieter neighbor, offering the same natural beauty but with fewer crowds.
Best for:
- Stunning beaches and surfing
- Hiking Mount Rinjani
- Visiting the Gili Islands
Best Time to Visit Lombok: May to September (dry season for hiking and beaches).
Best Hotels in Lombok:
Lombok mirrors Bali’s appeal with its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, rice terraces, and waterfalls.
Adventurers love trekking Mount Rinjani, while the Gili Islands nearby are perfect for diving, snorkeling, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Sasak villages add cultural depth, showcasing local traditions and cuisine. Unlike Bali, Lombok is less developed and offers more breathing space, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting the Bali vibe without the overwhelming crowds.
Phuket, Thailand
Why it’s like Bali: Phuket is Thailand’s most famous island, combining nightlife, beaches, and wellness culture.
Best for:
- Lively nightlife in Patong
- Family-friendly beaches like Kata and Karon
- Cultural gems in Phuket Old Town
Best Time to Visit Phuket: November to April (dry season, ideal for beaches).
Best Hotels in Phuket:
Like Bali, Phuket has something for every type of traveler. Patong is buzzing with bars and clubs, while Kata and Karon are more relaxed and family-friendly.
The island also boasts lush jungles, temples, and street markets. Phuket Old Town adds character with its Sino-Portuguese buildings and local food culture.
Accommodations range from beachfront resorts to secluded villas, making it as versatile as Bali. If you’re after beaches and nightlife similar to Bali but with Thai culture, Phuket is a top choice.
Tulum, Mexico
Why it’s like Bali: Tulum blends beaches, bohemian culture, wellness, and history.
Best for:
- Yoga and wellness retreats
- Mayan ruins by the sea
- Cenotes and eco-living
Best Time to Visit Tulum: November to April (dry season, less humidity).
Best Hotels in Tulum:
Tulum has been nicknamed the “Bali of North America” thanks to its yoga retreats, bohemian vibes, and eco-conscious lifestyle.
Like Bali, it attracts digital nomads and wellness seekers. The town is famous for its white-sand beaches, cliffside Mayan ruins, and cenotes perfect for swimming.
Foodies enjoy everything from street tacos to fine dining. The only drawback? Tulum is generally more expensive than Bali. If budget isn’t a concern, it’s one of the best Bali-like destinations in the Western Hemisphere.
Koh Phangan, Thailand
Why it’s like Bali: A mix of yoga retreats, beach life, and legendary nightlife.
Best for:
- Full Moon Party
- Yoga and wellness culture
- Jungle hikes and hidden beaches
Best Time to Visit Koh Phangan: January to April (warm and dry season).
Best Hotels in Koh Phangan:
Koh Phangan is best known for its Full Moon Party, but beyond the nightlife, it’s an island full of natural beauty and tranquility.
Lush jungles, temples, and mountains provide plenty to explore. Yoga retreats are scattered across the island, drawing in wellness travelers much like Bali does.
With nearby Koh Samui offering modern conveniences and an airport, Koh Phangan strikes a great balance between remoteness and accessibility.
Goa, India
Why it’s like Bali: Goa shares Bali’s mix of spirituality, beach culture, and nightlife.
Best for:
- Bohemian beach towns
- Vibrant nightlife and international DJs
- Unique Indo-Portuguese heritage
Best Time to Visit Goa: November to February (cooler, dry season).
Best Hotels in Goa:
Goa is not an island, but it feels like one with its palm-lined beaches, laid-back vibe, and bohemian atmosphere. Similiar to Bali, it attracts yoga lovers, backpackers, and partygoers.
Goa is also culturally rich, with UNESCO recognized World Heritage churches in Old Goa, Portuguese-influenced forts, and colorful markets. Each beach town offers something different: Baga for nightlife, Palolem for tranquility, and Calangute for a lively mix.
It’s affordable, spiritual, and culturally diverse, perfect for those who want a Bali-like escape in India.
Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Why it’s like Bali: A surf town with beaches, nightlife, and a growing wellness scene.
Best for:
- Surfing at Playa Zicatela
- Laid-back beach life
- Lively food and nightlife scene
Best Time to Visit Puerto Escondido: November to April (best surf conditions and dry season).
Best Hotels in Puerto Escondido:
Puerto Escondido has been described as “what Tulum used to be.” It’s a surf haven with a casual, bohemian feel. Like Bali, it offers a mix of lively beaches and quiet escapes.
Playa Zicatela is buzzing with nightlife and surfing, while Playa Carrizalillo and Playa Manzanillo are more tranquil.
Beyond the beaches, Puerto Escondido has a strong food scene and a growing yoga/wellness community. If you’re after Bali-like vibes in Mexico without the higher costs of Tulum, this is it.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Why it’s like Bali: Vietnam’s tropical island gem with beaches, culture, and affordability.
Best for:
- Snorkeling and diving
- National park hikes
- Affordable luxury resorts
Best Time to Visit Phu Quoc: November to March (cool, dry season).
Best Hotels in Phu Quoc:
Phu Quoc is often called Vietnam’s Bali, thanks to its palm-fringed beaches and growing reputation as a wellness and resort destination.
The island has a mix of pristine coastline, dense jungles, and traditional fishing villages. Phu Quoc National Park is perfect for hiking and spotting wildlife.
It’s also one of the more affordable Bali alternatives, offering everything from luxury resorts to budget-friendly bungalows. If you’re looking for a cheaper Bali-like experience, Phu Quoc is one of the best.
Gran Canaria, Spain
Why it’s like Bali: A European island with diverse landscapes, beaches, and nightlife.
Best for:
- Year-round sunshine
- Hiking volcanoes and mountains
- Beaches and resort towns
Best Time to Visit Gran Canaria: March to May and September to November (pleasant weather, fewer crowds).
Best Hotels in Gran Canaria:
Gran Canaria offers volcanic landscapes, golden beaches, and a mix of cultural experiences.
Simliar to Bali, it’s diverse, lush mountains, rugged coastlines, and vibrant towns like Las Palmas.
Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas are famous for nightlife and beach fun, while the island’s villages bring history and authenticity. With year-round pleasant weather, Gran Canaria is one of Europe’s best Bali-like alternatives.
Lagos, Portugal
Why it’s like Bali: A coastal town with dramatic beaches, cliffs, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Best for:
- Stunning cliffs and sea caves
- Kayaking, surfing, and paddleboarding
- Food, nightlife, and Portuguese culture
Best Time to Visit Lagos: May to October (warm, sunny weather).
Best Hotels in Lagos:
Lagos, in Portugal’s Algarve, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. With golden sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs, it rivals Bali in scenery.
Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are must-sees for their rock formations and stunning views.
Lagos has a lively old town full of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it both relaxing and social. If you’re looking for a Bali-like destination in Europe with a touch of history and nightlife, Lagos is a standout.
Final Thoughts on The Best Bali Alternatives
Bali is a one-of-a-kind destination, but these nine places prove you don’t have to stop at Bali to experience beaches, wellness, and nightlife.
Each alternative offers a unique twist on the Bali lifestyle, from Lombok’s authenticity and Koh Phangan’s yoga scene to Tulum’s bohemian luxury and Lagos’s European charm.
Budget also plays a role. Bali remains one of the more affordable options, while destinations like Tulum or Phuket can cost more. For travelers seeking affordability, Phu Quoc and Goa are great choices. For cultural diversity and European access, Gran Canaria and Lagos shine.
If you’ve never been, Bali is worth visiting at least once. But if you’re ready to expand your horizons, these nine alternatives deliver the same magic, beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences.
What makes them so appealing is that each destination balances relaxation with adventure, giving travelers a chance to design the type of trip that suits their style. From hidden jungle retreats to buzzing nightlife hubs, these places capture the same spirit that has made Bali so iconic.
And if you’re dreaming of a bohemian beach escape, don’t miss exploring the vibrant beach clubs in Tulum, where music, food, and ocean views perfectly reflect the Bali-inspired lifestyle.
What places offer Bali-style beaches with fewer crowds?
Travelers often look for Bali alternatives known for serene beaches and relaxed vibes. Destinations like Lombok, Goa, and Phu Quoc not only deliver that feel but also tend to be quieter and more budget-friendly
Which destinations similar to Bali are best for yoga and wellness retreats?
For wellness-focused travelers, places like Tulum, Koh Phangan, and Lombok are excellent alternatives to Bali. They offer yoga hubs, holistic retreats, and bohemian wellness scenes similar to what Bali is known for.
Are there Bali-like destinations in Europe?
Yes, islands such as Gran Canaria and coastal towns like Lagos, Portugal, deliver that warm, beach-town charm with European accessibility and culture, great Bali-style options without traveling halfway around the world.
What should I consider when choosing an alternative to Bali?
Think about what you loved most about Bali, be it beaches, culture, affordable lifestyle, or nightlife.
Then match that to destinations’ strengths: for cultural depth choose Goa, for affordability pick Phu Quoc, or for beach diversity consider Gran Canaria.
Are there eco-conscious destinations like Bali with a tropical vibe?
Yes, Tulum and Koh Phangan are noted for sustainable travel vibes and eco-resorts. They’re emerging alternatives for eco-minded travelers craving Bali’s green retreat energy.
