Choosing the perfect vacation destination can be challenging, especially when deciding between two incredible options. If you find yourself flipping a coin or debating between the Maldives and Bali, you’re not alone.
Both destinations offer their own unique allure, making it tough to pick just one.
In this blog, we’ll help you navigate the decision-making process by comparing these two island paradises to find out which one is the ideal choice for your next getaway.
Maldives vs. Bali
Indonesia’s most famous island, Bali, is situated west of Java in the Lesser Sunda Islands, which are surrounded by the Indian Sea and Bali Sea. It is known for its scenic rice terraces, aromatic and delicious cuisine, stunning beaches, and amazing culture and tradition.
Bali has beautiful views, temples all around the city, and an endless coastline. It has some of the world’s best coral reefs, waterfalls, and retreats, and it perfectly combines luxury with adventures. Bali is a blend of spiritual awakening and hard partying for the people!
On the other hand, the Maldives is an island country located in the Indian Ocean south of Sri Lanka. It has an archipelago of around 1,192 coral islands, but only a few are inhabited.
Every resort generally occupies an entire island with luxurious water villas. Imagine having a room on a pier that has a door that opens to the water-facing front, with a glass floor under you, and you can see fish swimming in!
Location and Accessibility
Bali
- It is a gorgeous tropical island with 5780 sq km in the Indian Ocean.
- Connected with other international destinations through the Ngurah Rai International Airport.
- Located east of the Maldives and is part of Indonesia.
- Many transport options are available for a high influx of tourists who visit every year.
Maldives
- An island country that you will find on the other side of the Indian Ocean
- Total 26 atolls full of coral reefs and tropical delights.
- Twelve airports in the Maldives, with the international airport located in Malé, the capital.
- Well-connected to the world, visitors can go by ferries or seaplanes and visit different islands.
Cost and Expenses
Here are all the details about the costs that you will get when you are at these two places.
Bali
- Visitors will need a minimum of USD 40 (177.48 MYR) per person daily. This means you must compromise on the taste and variety of food and accommodation.
- You can find a luxurious holiday package that may cost anywhere above USD 1000 (4,436 MYR).
Maldives
- With heavy taxes and few options, food, transport, and accommodation for every person per night should cost at least 60 (266 MYR) to 100 (443 MYR) USD.
- It will add an extra cost if you go from one island to another.
Best Places To Stay In Bali
Discover the top accommodations in Bali. Here are some of our recommendations for you:
Sidemen
- The best lush Sidemen countryside in Bali.
- Features emerald rice fields with winding backroads.
- Views from the sea to Mt. Agung.
- Most welcoming Balinese people.
Nusa Dua
- It is known as the “honeymoon vacation destination’.
- It is a seaside area with most of the flagship resorts in Bali.
- Popular resorts like Hilton, Marriott, and other luxury resorts are only found in Bali.
- It is an ideal honeymoon spot for couples who are looking for top-notch service.
- Breathtaking views of the gorgeous beaches that are great for swimming and enjoying beautiful facilities.
Nusa Penida
- It is located off the coast of Bali.
- An undeveloped island is a place for people who like to go on adventures.
- You can rent a motorcycle or get in touch with a driver to explore the rugged coastline.
- Climb on treehouses and visit a massive temple underground, or swim through waterfalls as they take you into the ocean.
- An ideal place for divers.
Uluwatu
- Beautiful rugged cliffs and crashing waves of Uluwatu are ideal for every surfer in the corner of this world.
- Ideal spots for eating, drinking, shopping, and chilling at Bingin Beach.
Ubud
- Known as the wellness capital of Bali.
- It offers yoga classes in stunning rice fields with plenty of vegetarian choices and gorgeous temples.
- Best for people who want the ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ experience.
- Simple guest houses, treehouses, and luxury resorts with rushing rivers.
Maldives vs. Bali
Indonesia’s most famous island, Bali, is situated west of Java in the Lesser Sunda Islands, which are surrounded by the Indian Sea and Bali Sea. It is known for its scenic rice terraces, aromatic and delicious cuisine, stunning beaches, and amazing culture and tradition.
Bali has beautiful views, temples all around the city, and an endless coastline. It has some of the world’s best coral reefs, waterfalls, and retreats, and it perfectly combines luxury with adventures. Bali is a blend of spiritual awakening and hard partying for the people!
On the other hand, the Maldives is an island country located in the Indian Ocean south of Sri Lanka. It has an archipelago of around 1,192 coral islands, but only a few are inhabited.
Every resort generally occupies an entire island with luxurious water villas. Imagine having a room on a pier that has a door that opens to the water-facing front, with a glass floor under you, and you can see fish swimming in!
Location and Accessibility
Bali
- It is a gorgeous tropical island with 5780 sq km in the Indian Ocean.
- Connected with other international destinations through the Ngurah Rai International Airport.
- Located east of the Maldives and is part of Indonesia.
- Many transport options are available for a high influx of tourists who visit every year.
Maldives
- An island country that you will find on the other side of the Indian Ocean
- Total 26 atolls full of coral reefs and tropical delights.
- Twelve airports in the Maldives, with the international airport located in Malé, the capital.
- Well-connected to the world, visitors can go by ferries or seaplanes and visit different islands.
Cost and Expenses
Here are all the details about the costs that you will get when you are at these two places.
Bali
- Visitors will need a minimum of USD 40 (177.48 MYR) per person daily. This means you must compromise on the taste and variety of food and accommodation.
- You can find a luxurious holiday package that may cost anywhere above USD 1000 (4,436 MYR).
Maldives
- With heavy taxes and few options, food, transport, and accommodation for every person per night should cost at least 60 (266 MYR) to 100 (443 MYR) USD.
- It will add an extra cost if you go from one island to another.
Best Places To Stay In Bali
Discover the top accommodations in Bali. Here are some of our recommendations for you:
Sidemen
- The best lush Sidemen countryside in Bali.
- Features emerald rice fields with winding backroads.
- Views from the sea to Mt. Agung.
- Most welcoming Balinese people.
Nusa Dua
- It is known as the “honeymoon vacation destination’.
- It is a seaside area with most of the flagship resorts in Bali.
- Popular resorts like Hilton, Marriott, and other luxury resorts are only found in Bali.
- It is an ideal honeymoon spot for couples who are looking for top-notch service.
- Breathtaking views of the gorgeous beaches that are great for swimming and enjoying beautiful facilities.
Nusa Penida
- It is located off the coast of Bali.
- An undeveloped island is a place for people who like to go on adventures.
- You can rent a motorcycle or get in touch with a driver to explore the rugged coastline.
- Climb on treehouses and visit a massive temple underground, or swim through waterfalls as they take you into the ocean.
- An ideal place for divers.
Uluwatu
- Beautiful rugged cliffs and crashing waves of Uluwatu are ideal for every surfer in the corner of this world.
- Ideal spots for eating, drinking, shopping, and chilling at Bingin Beach.
Ubud
- Known as the wellness capital of Bali.
- It offers yoga classes in stunning rice fields with plenty of vegetarian choices and gorgeous temples.
- Best for people who want the ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ experience.
- Simple guest houses, treehouses, and luxury resorts with rushing rivers.
Best Places To Stay in Maldives
Since we’ve highlighted the best places to stay in Bali, you might still be wondering, “Is the Maldives better than Bali?” To help you decide, read about the top accommodations in the Maldives. Check them out below:
Ari Atoll
- Ranked as the most beautiful places that you can go in the Maldives
- Around 80 coral islands are in this place.
- Many coral islands are covered with palm trees or lush greenery, while the others are simply pure white sand.
- The best place for divers who want to try out the 23 world-famous dive sites is where they can see whale sharks throughout the year.
- The ideal time to be at this place is between August and September.
North Malé Atoll
- This atoll houses over 80 small islands with numerous resorts.
- Best for couples who are searching for the “one island, one resort” experience
- Visitors can also explore Malé. They can visit the fish markets, sample the local dishes, and see the regal mosques.
Noonu Atoll
- Famous honeymoon destination because of the extravagant resorts, and it is perfect for honeymooners with a larger budget.
- You can find many high-end resorts with flagship hotels here.
- The sunsets are incredible, and the overwater bungalows are Instagram-worthy. If we talk about the activities, there are many couple-friendly that you can try out with your better half.
Baa Atoll
- The right destination for the scuba divers.
- You can visit this place between June and November, as it is the ideal time for it.
Final Thoughts
Maldives or Bali—the choice is yours. We’ve made it easier for you to decide between these stunning island paradises. If you’re wondering, “Is the Maldives or Bali more expensive to visit?” you now have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Both destinations promise to make your trip unforgettable, offering experiences that will truly feel out of this world.
For exceptional tour packages to Bali, contact Travel Planner. If you’re planning to explore the Maldives in the coming months, we can also help you find the best Maldives tour packages. Your dream getaway awaits!
