In Reply to: Padang Bai Accommodation posted by joandtim on Thursday, 13. January 2011 at 18:40 Bali Time:
but I don't agree with the negatives about Padang Bai.
I found it a pleasant little spot, with a lot happening with ferrys coming and going at all times and also fast boats to various locations.
There is a nice little beach strip with a lot of local boats and a very picturesque little isolated bay close by with a couple of small warungs to get a beer etc.
We just "winged it" with accomodation, and got into a decent homestay type for a few rupe so can't comment on accommodation, but there are quite a few places along the front.
I would rank it as a worthwhile one nighter, or perhaps even longer as a base to explore things along this stretch.
Suits "self drivers" very nicely.