Personal butlers, beachfront massages and fine-dining on your doorstep - here's where to stay in Bali if luxury hotels and five-star resorts are your thang...
Bali is packed full of so many wondrous things to do and cool places to see, we often spend more time outside of our hotels and villas than we do in them. Whether you want to hit the beach or jungle, there’s always something to do in every Bali neighbourhood. But for those wanting to slow the pace and experience the laid-back and luxurious vibes of a tropical island getaway (and if you’re down to splurge!), then you’re in luck – Bali is also home to countless luxury hotels and resorts with the wow-factor.
Picture this: 24-hour butlers, daily turn-down services, bottomless brekkies, ultra-luxe spas and soooo much more. Not to mention, five-star addresses right on the beach, or teetering in the jungle. With so many fabulous places to stay all across the island, we’ve compiled the best of the best luxury hotels and five-star resorts in Bali – from Uluwatu and Nusa Dua, to Seminyak and Ubud. Here’s where to live it up on the island…
THE BEST LUXURY HOTELS & FIVE STAR RESORTS IN BALI
Editor’s Picks
1. W Bali – Seminyak
A fave hotel for Bali’s international jet-set society, W Bali – Seminyak is an uber trendy mix of beachfront luxe and Bali-fused design, home to some of the island’s most revered lifestyle destinations (helloooo Woo Bar and the 24/7 Away Spa!). We love the glamorous and oh-so spacious ocean-facing suites, but for ultimate exclusivity, opt for one of the modern and contemporary W Villas. Think private plunge pools, comfy sun lounges, hidden day beds and relaxing interiors with state-of-the-art entertainment systems, tucked away from the world outside. Lie down on soft cotton sheets and soak in terrazzo bathtubs with W-branded spa products on hand. And all thanks to their signature Whatever/Whenever® service, all you have to do is rock up with your bikini, a bottle of bubbles and great company… W Bali – Seminyak will take care of the rest!
W Bali – Seminyak, Jl Petitenget, Seminyak, p. +62 361 300 0106, e. [email protected]
2. Jumeirah Bali
For a true taste of the royal treatment, you’ll want to check-in to Jumeirah Bali. This sweeping all-villa luxury resort is a stunning architectural tribute to the ancient Hindu-Javanese Majapahit Empire, giving you a glimpse into how Bali’s ruling elite lived during the golden era. It’s a tropical yet historical resort reminiscent of an opulent royal water palace, complete with ocean views all around and six-star service fit for royalty. This verdant, water-based sanctuary is also home to the award-winning Talise Spa (complete with the only traditional Turkish hammam on the island), and three signature restaurants and bars with panoramic views. Dine atop a limestone cliff at Akasa Restaurant & Bar, feast on farm-to-table Balinese and South-East Asian cuisine at Segaran Dining Terrace, and top it all off with cocktails and gourmet bites at Maja Sunset Lounge. Then, when you retreat to your palace-like abode, you’re enveloped by Bali’s mesmerising natural landscapes, tropical ocean views and your very own private pool and breezy pavilion. It’s the jewel in the Jumeirah Bali crown…
Jumeirah Bali, Jl Raya Uluwatu, Kawasan Pecatu Indah Resort, Pecatu, p. +62 361 201 5000, e. [email protected]
3. InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort
Just footsteps from the sand and Sanur’s best restaurants and boutiques, InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort is a freshly renewed beachfront oasis that we LOVE. The four-hectare resort houses 120 suites and villas (including the largest suite in Sanur, no less!) generously spaced across the lush tropical gardens. Wake up to the sunrise views, best enjoyed from your comfy bed, surrounded by bespoke furnishings and elegant designs with Indonesian heritage touches. Stop by the resort’s restaurants and fuel up for the day, before taking your pick from the resort activities. Kids can join in on releasing baby turtles, while mums and dads can take a dip in the infinity pool which overlooks the glittering ocean. As the sky turns to cotton candy, make your way to the beach bar and soak in the view with a cocktail in-hand. And whenever you do decide to venture out of this sanctuary, the beach is right on your doorstep, with a coastal promenade that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or family bike ride. You’ll also want to make full use of the resort’s prime Sanur location, be it a day trip to North Bali, or even a staycay on Nusa Penida or Lembongan… The island really is your oyster when staying in Sanur!
InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort, Jl Kusuma Sari No. 8, Sanur, p. +62 361 6201 888 / +62 811 3800 6092, e. [email protected]
4. Balquisse Heritage Hotel
A stylish hideaway designed by the award-winning Moroccan interior designer, Zohra Boukhari, Balquisse is a five-star boutique hotel in Jimbaran where vintage charm, nature and style intertwine. It’s a place where you can immerse in the world of sophisticated art and the most romantic fairytale settings, all in a wonderfully secluded hideaway. Peacefully enveloped by a flowering garden within an old coconut plantation, the hotel is home to just 22 charming rooms, individually infused with the unique and luxurious boho-chic, cultural elegance that you expect from Zohra. We love the beautiful flourishes of Javanese, Asian and Moroccan heritage throughout the grounds, where you’ll also find three stunning swimming pools, high-end wellness experiences, delish dining destination, an exotic spa, and hand-curated experiences tailor-made for each guest, like the made-to-measure picnic with a local professional chef. And to top it off, all of this is just minutes from Jimbaran beach.
Balquisse Heritage Hotel, Jl Uluwatu No.18X, Jimbaran, p. +62 361 701695, e. [email protected]
5. Alila Villas Uluwatu
We dare you to step into Alila Villas Uluwatu and not instantly fall in love. Stunningly minimalist with its sublime design aesthetic and unmatched views out across the Indian Ocean (seriously, just look at that cliff-top cabana!) Alila Villas Uluwatu really is the bee’s knees when it comes to luxe living. With fine dining, spa pampering and truly expert hospitality, this paradisal all-villa resort stands out from the crowd and will not disappoint. Each villa comes with luxury must-haves like 24-hour butlers, private pools and views that’ll take your breath away. Go for the one bedroom villa for a romantic getaway, or the three-bedroom villa, which is spacious enough to host an event, even a wedding!
Alila Villas Uluwatu, Jl Belimbing Sari, Banjar Tambiyak, Desa Pecatu, Uluwatu, p. +62 361 848 2166, e. [email protected]
THE BEST LUXURY HOTELS & FIVE STAR RESORTS IN BALI
Top luxury hotels & resorts in Ubud
1. Four Seasons Bali Resort at Sayan
Four Seasons Sayan was named the No. 1 Hotel in the World by Travel + Leisure, so you’re guaranteed a wow-worthy stay here. It’s an oasis of utmost luxury in a lush, jungle setting, nestled between two sacred rivers and hidden behind a jungle canopy. This six-star sanctuary is fronted by a show-stopping footbridge that’s fringed by sky-high lily ponds – perfectly sheltered from the outside world. Wind your way through this enchanting forest, past the jungle-facing restaurant, and you’ll find just a limited number of suites and private villas (with their own private plunge pools and deep soaking tubs), meaning you’ll get the VIP treatment throughout your stay. Unsurprisingly so, the resort’s global rep has attracted A-List guests like the Obamas and the Kardashians…
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Jl Raya Sayan, Sayan, Ubud, p. +62 361 977 577.
2. Mandapa – a Ritz Carlton Reserve
Mandapa, meaning “temple” in Sanskrit, is a shrine-like resort that unites Man with Mother Nature. Hanging atop the breathtaking Ayung River, hugged by the mystical rainforest, this world-class village-like Ritz Carlton Reserve is home to 60 ultra-luxe, river-view suites with private terraces and luxury villas – some with splendid private pools. In the hotel’s four nature-bound dining destinations, you can fine dine on organic Mediterranean-European cuisine in a bamboo shala by the river, treat yourself to a romantic, tailor-made dining experience by the rice fields, or munch on light bites while gazing out over untouched greenery, dipping your toes into the cool infinity pool as you go. It’s five-star indulgence at its very best.
Mandapa – a Ritz Carlton Reserve, Jl Kedewatan, Banjar Kedewatan, Gianyar, Ubud, p. +62 361 479 2777, e. [email protected]
3. COMO Shambhala Estate
COMO Shambhala Estate isn’t just a luxury resort, nor is it simply a top-notch health retreat. Instead, this staggering 23 acre, ultra-luxe holistic sanctuary is a splendid combo of the two. Perched on the steep gorge of the sacred Ayung River, a typical day at COMO Shambhala Estate includes a range of complimentary wellness programmes to shake up your chakras, such as yoga, Pilates, meditation, Qigong and aqua therapy in the 25m-lap hydrotherapy pool. Or, simply zone out in the resort’s very own natural springs, or in one of the Garden Rooms, suites and villas that feature large terraces, some with their own pools…
COMO Shambhala Estate, Banjar Begawan, Desa Melinggih Kelod, Payangan, Gianyar, Ubud, p. +62 361 978 888, e. [email protected]
4. Capella Ubud
Capella Ubud is a jungle-tangled haven that adds an ultra-luxe twist to the fun and adventure of glamping. A stay here begins with a welcome bag containing your camping essentials, before proceeding to a suspension bridge that leads you to your luxurious Dutch-style ‘tent’. Hovering above the steep terrains of Ubud’s Keliki Valley, there’s nothing quite like spending an evening dipping into your own private salt-water plunge pool, sipping on hot chocolate and toasting marshmallows by the campfire – all before retreating to your gorgeous glamping abode. And psst – foodies, you’ll love Capella’s neck-to-tail signature restaurant, Api Jiwa. It’s no surprise that Capella Ubud was named the Best Resort in Asia and in Indonesia by Travel + Leisure…
Capella Ubud, Jl Raya Dalem, Tegallalang, Gianyar, Ubud, p. +62 361 209 1888, e. info.u[email protected]
5. Viceroy Bali
Viceroy Bali is a five-star luxury hotel in Ubud’s “Valley of the Kings”, dedicated to giving you the royal treatment during your stay. And this begins with its 25 award-winning, sprawling private villas, none smaller than 1,500 square-foot. If you pick the Terrace or Viceroy Villas, you get an exceptional private outdoor terrace with an infinity pool and a raised daybed, overlooking the spectacular jungle ravine and the Petanu River gorge – yassss Queen! But don’t get too comfortable inside the heated plunge pool of your royal chambers… you’ll want to step outside to experience Bali’s timeless culture with Viceroy’s day tours, or devour A-grade gourmet cuisine at Viceroy’s two fine dining restaurants.
Viceroy Bali, Jl Lanyahan, Br Nagi, Ubud, p. +62 361 971 777, e. [email protected]
6. Hoshinoya Bali
Hoshinoya Bali seamlessly fuses the breathtaking natural backdrops of Ubud with Japan’s distinctive spatial aesthetics. So much so, the resort is quite literally built around Bali’s ancient ‘subak’ canals, perched atop the sacred Pakerisan river valley and enveloped by mystical jungle. Winding through the resort’s jungle boardwalk, you’ll spot geometric Japanese cabanas teetering over the valley’s edge, with flowing water all around and private villas woven into the rainforest landscape. These villas are quintessentially Japanese, with minimalistic and elegant interiors that are dotted with traditional Balinese handcrafts. Think intricate wooden engravings and delicate batik lampshades. Honouring its island home, you can also join cultural resort activities, like canang making or a batik workshop, before settling into a multi-course Japanese feast at the resort’s restaurant.
Hoshinoya Bali, Banjar Pengembungan, Desa Pejeng Kangin, Tampaksiring, Ubud, p. +62 878 7511 0511, e. [email protected]
Top luxury hotels & resorts in Uluwatu & Jimbaran
1. AYANA Resort Bali
An entire estate’s worth of five-star destinations, the stunning and award-winning AYANA Resort Bali sits above Jimbaran Bay, with full access to all the fabulous facilities at the sister RIMBA resort next door. With a complimentary resort shuttle between the two, you have all-embracing access to multiple restaurants and bars (including the famous sunset bar, Rock Bar), exclusive private access to Kubu beach and Kubu beach club, the breathtaking infinity pool overlooking the ocean, a world-class spa, golf course and a jogging trail, just to name a few. As for your Jimbaran abode, choose from a terrace or ocean view, or the private pool villas which range from one to three bedrooms. Whichever you choose, expect antique designs alongside modern wooden furnishings and a traditionally elegant atmosphere…
AYANA Resort Bali, Jl Karang Mas Sejahtera, Jimbaran, p. +62 361 702 222 / +62 811 3820 2288, e. [email protected]
2. Six Senses Uluwatu
The epitome of luxury, Six Senses Uluwatu is perched 74 meters high above sea level on Uluwatu’s rugged cliff-edge, with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean all around. Five-star dining, award-winning spa experiences, daily yoga and dreamy suites and villas are all part of the Six Senses experience, topped off by resort activities, sublime service and even daily free ice-cream! We love the outdoor cinema overlooking the ocean, and the pet-friendly policy that means your pooch can get a taste of the good life too.
Six Senses Uluwatu, Jl Goa Lempeh, Uluwatu, p. +62 361 209 0300, e. [email protected]
3. Bulgari Resort Bali
With a grand setting on Bali’s dramatic southern coastline, Bulgari Resort Bali is the epitome of lavish living. Unparalleled levels of service matched with views to-die-for ensure this resort’s reputation reigns supreme as one of the most exclusive places to stay anywhere in Bali. Its luxury villas are unlike any we’ve ever seen, while the five-bedroom mansion comes with a private pool, gazebo, expansive garden and pool deck, and an elevator which takes you to your master suite with its own walk-in closet. Nothing’s impossible here either; from outer island excursions to helicopter tours over the island’s breathtaking scenery – a stay here is certainly worth the splurge.
Bulgari Resort Bali, Jl Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin, Uluwatu, p. +62 361 847 1000 / +62 815 5800 1969, e. [email protected]
4. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
Sheltered in a calm bay along 4.8 kilometres of white sandy beach, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay is an all-villa resort, which offers unforgettable views and authentic Balinese vibes. The stunning and traditional Balinese-inspired villas are hidden away within lush tropical gardens, with some being large enough (up to four bedrooms) for a fancy family vacay. Each villa is surrounded by a private stone-walled courtyard featuring separate thatched-roof pavilions, adding to those exclusive tropical vibes. Treat yourself at the gorgeous Healing Village Spa with wellness treatments galore, or immerse yourself in the resort’s cultural offerings, take a dip in the dreamy infinity pool, or spend an entire day at Sundara – the resort’s very own beach lounge.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, Jimbaran, p. +62 361 701 010.
5. Karma Kandara
This one’s for the jetsetters. Karma Kandara is one of Bali’s most exclusive Bukit resorts, overlooking the deep blue sea and vibrant coral reefs below. The Karma Group are responsible for some of the world’s most luxurious places to stay, and this Bali address is no exception. Designed to blend in with its lush green surroundings, the beautifully-appointed villas all feature private pools, spacious living areas and access to one of the coolest beaches in Asia; Karma Beach. Simple yet elegant, the unmatched quality and service of Karma Kandara makes it one for the hit-list.
Karma Kandara, Jl Villa Kandara, Banjar Wijaya Kusuma, Ungasan, p. +62 361 848 2202 / +62 823 4048 5232, e. [email protected]
Top luxury hotels & resorts in Seminyak
1. The Legian Bali
Refined, chic and oh-so classy, The Legian Bali is perhaps Seminyak’s most elite resort destination. Gorgeously sitting on the ‘hood’s prime stretch of golden sand, this ultra-luxurious five-star retreat is the cream of the Seminyak crop. There are private butlers and date night dining experiences galore, oceanfront suites and Champagne bars on the beach. You’ll find glamorous indulgences beneath swaying palms, and no matter where you turn, you’ll find unparalleled service and signature touches in every direction. Choose from the elite beachfront Suites, the three-bedroom Beach House, or cross the street to The Club at The Legian Bali where private pool villas are hidden amidst tropical gardens and sparkling swimming pools. Hea-ven.
The Legian Bali, Jl Kayu Aya, Seminyak Beach, p. +62 361 730 622 / +62 811 3821 8771, e. [email protected]
2. Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak
Your gateway to all the wonders of the Seminyak neighbourhood, Hotel Indigo is an eye catching, super chic place to crash with a beachfront location that’s right in the middle of the action. Swanky suites or pool villas (each one comes with the hotel’s 24-hour bespoke Neighbourhood Butler service) – whichever you choose, you’ll be loving the design-led furnishings and the top-end service. We simply LOVE this new lifestyle location… with three stunning pools, no less!
Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach, Jl Camplung Tanduk, No. 10 Seminyak, p. +62 361 209 9999, e. [email protected]
3. Alila Seminyak
This sprawling, upscale resort really does have it all, with its picture perfect beachfront location and ultra-swanky suites that each come with their own private terrace or balcony. And if you really want to up the luxe, check out the Alila Seminyak Penthouse – 811 square metres of luxury with three bedrooms, a spacious living room where you can host your own VIP party, a fully-equipped kitchen and a dining room. Of course, the Penthouse is decked out with amenities galore like a private pool, a minibar, a media hub, butler and in-room dining too. As tempting as it might be to never leave this haven in the heart of Seminyak, it’s well worth checking out the huge program of Alila ‘experiences’, from guided tours to temple hopping and more. Otherwise, just graze your days away at Seasalt. Swoon!
Alila Seminyak, Jl Taman Ganesha No. 9, Petitenget, p. +62 361 302 1888, e. [email protected]
4. Potato Head Studios
Eco-conscious travellers, this one’s for you. Seminyak’s game-changing Potato Head Studios at Desa Potato Head are carbon-offsetted abodes just footsteps from the beach that are drenched in natural light and recycled materials. Think patchwork rugs made from linen off-cuts, drinks coasters made from repurposed recycled plastics, volcanic ceramics, hand-dyed fabrics and even entire walls made from unused brick. You’ll also receive your very own zero-waste kit, which includes a water bottle, RPET tote bag, bamboo straws and refillable amenities like sunscreen, after-sun care and insect repellent. And when you step outside of your eco-friendly abode? You have countless culturally-inspired spaces and experimental venues, including Tanaman (a cosmic plant-fuelled restaurant), numerous bars, a multifunctional exhibition gallery, several rooftop activation areas, an amphitheatre, a beachfront pool with daybeds, and even a music recording studio!
Potato Head Studios, Jl Petitenget No. 51B, Seminyak, p. +62 361 473 7979, e. [email protected]
Top luxury hotels & resorts in Nusa Dua
1. The Apurva Kempinski Bali
A luxury resort that captures the essence, art and identity of Indonesia, The Apurva Kempinski Bali is a six-star ode to its homeland. The breathtaking interiors have been crafted by local artisans, resembling a majestic open-air Indonesian theatre. The Junior Suites give you a tranquil getaway within exotic foliage and exclusive access to the Cliff pools. Or, for a next level stay, The Apurva Prestige Ocean Suite features a spacious bedroom, a separate living room, a large bathroom (with an outdoor bathtub), a terrace, a private plunge pool, and even a pantry and a powder room for your guests – topped off with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean! Each room is peppered with indigenous artefacts, rich exotic woods, local fabrics and iconic Indonesian motifs. The resort’s award-winning restaurants and the luxe treatments at the ocean-facing spa are inspired by the traditions of Bali. It’s the perfect balance of time-honoured traditions and twenty-first century indulgences.
The Apurva Kempinski Bali, Jl Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Sawangan, Nusa Dua, p. +62 361 209 2288, e. [email protected]
2. The St. Regis Bali Resort
Overlooking a pristine ribbon of Nusa Dua’s white-sand beach with infinite panoramic ocean views, lush gardens and a crystal clear 3,668sqm saltwater lagoon, The St. Regis Bali Resort is nothing short of refined barefoot elegance. It’s no wonder Barack Obama chose to stay here during his Bali trip, with its fine dining restaurants, the ahh-mazing Iridium Spa and the legendary 24 hour bespoke Butler Services – just one of The St. Regis brands’ world-class heritage traditions. Stay in one of the exceptional 81 suites, the 41 private pool villas or the majestic two-storey, three-bedroom Strand Residence that sits right on the beachfront. Bliss!
The St. Regis Bali Resort, Kawasan Pariwisata Lot S6, Nusa Dua, p. +62 361 847 8111.
3. Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort
A spectacular mix of French elegance and unique Balinese culture, the très chic and ever-magnifique Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort is a sophisticated Nusa Dua stay – home to private plunge-pool luxury suites, panoramic ocean views, private pool villas and endless, haute couture cuisine. Relax in the gorgeous landscaped pools, take a leisurely walk along the leafy pathways, or unwind with soothing treatments at So SPA. Foodies, you’ll want to stay here for one of the most impressive resort breakfasts we’ve ever tried, and you’ll certainly want to come back for one of Bali’s all-time fave Sunday brunches.
Softitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, Kawasan Pariwisata BTDC Lot N5, Nusa Dua, p. +62 361 849 2888, e. [email protected]
4. The Ritz-Carlton Bali
A list of Nusa Dua’s best hotels simply wouldn’t be complete without this luxury icon. Having won countless awards (one of them as the Best Family Resort in Asia), The Ritz-Carlton Bali is where you stay if you want to live it up in Nusa Dua. The five-star suites with modern Balinese decor are a heavenly hideaway in the midst of the resort’s lush tropical gardens. Or, go for a private pool villa complete with personal butler services. Our favourite is the Sky Villa with its sky-high infinity pool overlooking the ocean. By nightfall, head out to the romantic beach grill, or raise a glass with a sophisticated cocktail and cliff-side dining. If you’re travelling with kids, check out the Ritz Kids activities and babysitting services, so you can pamper and preen with ocean-inspired treatments at the spa. Pssst – brides-to-be, Ritz-Carlton Bali is also home to several romantic wedding venues, including the Insta-famed Majestic Chapel…
The Ritz-Carlton Bali, Jl Raya Nusa Dua Selatan Lot 3, Nusa Dua, p. +62 361 849 8988, e. [email protected]
5. The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas
Winner of countless prestigious awards, including “Best Hotel in the World” two years in a row by Condé Nast, The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas is a breathtaking tropical paradise packed to the luxurious brim with six-star indulgences. For starters, it sits beachfront on the gorgeous white sands of Nusa Dua’s most beautiful bay, with multiple modern suites and luxurious villas to relax in (complete with butler services and modern amenities), a stellar collection of gourmet restaurants (home to one of Bali’s most beloved Sunday brunches), one of the most beautiful infinity pools on the island, and stylish designs throughout the suites and private villas that have their own hydrotherapy pools. This is swanky Nusa Dua resort-living at its finest!
The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas, Jl Raya Nusa Dua, Sawangan, Nusa Dua, p. +62 361 301 7777, e. [email protected].
Happy luxury holiday-ing, Honeys! If you love this list of Bali’s best luxury resorts, check out these awesome things to do across the island too!
