Traveling to Bali, need some advice...

I am going to be competing in the Tough Mudder in Jimbaran on October 1. All in all I will be in Bali September 29 through October 6. I want to find a hotel that is somewhat close to the venue (Jimbaran), but also allows me to get a feel for the culture, people and sights of the island. I am open to staying in Jimbaran for the race and a recovery day afterwards and then move further up the island and stay somewhere else. This is my first time in Bali and I want to make the most of it. Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!