I'm traveling in Bali August 4-23. I have my first 8 days of lodging set (a little north and inland from Legian) but want to get to see different parts of the island, particularly the east around Candidasa, and some of the central areas around the mountainous region, and also perhaps a couple nights over on Lombok. Do you advise me to book lodging in advance, or that time of year do you think it's easy to find once I arrive? I will stay budget to mid-range, just so long as it's clean, quiet, with good access to transpo/food/etc. A/C not necessary, but I'd like it to be comfortable heat-wise ...

All suggestions very much appreciated!

We stayed at the Candi Beach cottages last year. This place is just out of Candi Dasa (5 minute drive) and the hotel organise transport. We booked in advance but there were plenty of rooms vacant. This is a really nice clean place . It is probably upper mid range.

We also inspected the Watergarden while we were there. This place is in the middle of Candi Dasa township , so it is within walking distance to restaurants etc.This is also a clean , well maintained place . It is also mid range. however they have less rooms than the Candi Beach cottages. so I would suggest you book in advance.

especially right now as tourism is way down - you should find pretty much everyone has a room and that way you can check to see who is the best, etc. That's what I always did, low or peak season, even when Bali was busy, no problem