Here's our top picks of where to stay in Uluwatu - the best spots to rest your salty locks down on Bali's Bukit peninsula
Far removed from the frenetic buzz of Seminyak, the pace of life on Bali’s Bukit peninsula is slow and steady – easy like a Sunday morning by the sea. Quieter roads, a blossoming restaurant scene and a stack of stunning beaches mean that spending at least a few nights down here is a must.
Luckily, there are plenty of places to crash, whether you’re after cliff top splendour, a shabby chic bohemian villa or cheap ’n’ cheerful homestay pads. Here are our top picks of where to stay in Uluwatu – the best places to rest those sandy feet and salt-tangled locks in Padang Padang, Bingin, Balangan & beyond.
EVERYDAY STAYS
Casual places to stay in Uluwatu for under $150 a night
Mule Malu
A tropical spot just minutes from Bingin Beach and Uluwatu’s other sandy stunners, Mule Malu is one of our fave Bukit stays thanks to the pinch-me-cute island designs and salty pool surrounded by stripey deck chairs and a breezy cafe, serving brekkie, juices and smoothies. With just 11 rooms, it’s quiet, cosy and comes with a community-style atmo. The Mediterranean vibes keep things simple yet comfy, surrounded by tropical green gardens and island-vibes a-plenty. You really can’t go wrong.
Mule Malu, Jl Pantai Bingin, Uluwatu, p. +62 8214 4207 937, e. reservation@mulemalu.com.
La Joya
Beachy bungalows inspired by seashells? La Joya had us hello! This stunning boutique Balangan resort is somewhat of a local secret, but it’s just too beautiful not to share. Gorgeous clifftop bungalows dot a dainty pathway that leads out to infinite ocean views over the glittering horizon. These bungalows are as cute as they come, with thatched roofs, four-poster beds and quaint little patios that face tropical gardens. Keep it casual in a standard bungalow, upgrade to a deluxe or splurge on the private villa.
La Joya, Jl Pantai Balangan, Balangan Beach, p. +62 811 399 0048, e. informations@la-joya.com.
Sun & Surf Stay
Island-chic simplicity at its finest, Sun & Surf Stay delivers exactly what its name promises: plenty of sun-soaked days on the beach, direct access to two of Bali’s best waves, and a picturesque stay in all-white-everything interiors. And to top it all off, every room overlooks the ocean, with cute balconies that capture Bingin’s fifty shades of blue, with boho hammocks for serious bay-watching.
The Sun & Surf Stay, Jl Pantai Bingin, Bingin Beach, Pecatu, p. +62 821 4407 0909 e. info@binginbeach.com.
The Alchemist
Natural rustic cabins, cosy tree-houses hidden in a grove of mango & cashew trees, and a restaurant and bar built around an 80 year-old Kapok tree – The Alchemist is one of the most magical eco resorts on the island. Each room at this Balangan-based resort is different, with a fairytale-like vibe that’s finished off with the perks of a gorgeous T-shaped swimming pool and cute boho interiors that we can’t get enough of. Our fave is the two-storey Romeo & Juliette room by the pool…
The Alchemist, Jl Pantai Balangan, Pecatu, p. +62 858-5719-6504, e. office@the-alchemist-bali.com.
Mick’s Place
Perched up on the Bingin cliffs with 180 degrees of unencumbered Indian Ocean views, Mick’s Place is all about soaking up the best bits Bingin Beach has to offer. Seven Polynesian-style bungalows sit on tropical, terraced gardens to capture those cool sea breezes and spectacular views, and an infinity plunge pool sits in direct sight of the world-class waves. Even the on-site spa makes sure you never miss a beat, with outdoor massage beds facing the ocean. If slow-paced island life is your thang, then you’ll feel right at home at Mick’s Place.
Mick’s Place, Jl Pantai Bingin, Pecatu.
Gravity
Kick back at this beautiful boho-boutique eco resort and enjoy stunning sea views across to Bingin and beyond. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, each of the nine rooms are unique, with chic styling and plenty of comfy places to ruminate with a good novel. A swish restaurant serving Indonesian dishes and Western favourites means that you probably won’t want to leave this little slice of paradise…
Gravity, Jl Labuan Sait Padang Padang, Pecatu, p. +62 858 474 35 728, e. info@gravitybalihotel.com
Pink Coco
Pink is the new black at this contemporary Bukit stay. Bright, breezy and fuchsia-fantastic, Pink Coco is right in the heart of the shops, cafes, spas and bars of Padang Padang’s most buzzy strip. There are plenty of stylish rooms to choose from, with garden views, patios or even a rooftop boudoir with 360 degree views over the surrounding cliffs, surf breaks and breathtaking landscapes. Chill out by the oasis-like pool, dine at the adjoining Italian Trattoria, or pop next door to Esthetic spa for the best pampering sesh in Bali.
Pink Coco Bali, Jl Melasti Labuan Sait, Padang Padang, p. +62 361 895 7371, e. infobali@pnkhotels.com.
La Cabane Bali
Consisting of five eco friendly cabins by the seaside, La Cabane is a cosy eco-resort that offers stylish living and luxury amenities just a few steps away from the peaceful sands of Balangan Beach. Built in a Balinese style using traditional thatched roofs and gorgeous teak timber, this cute collection of boutique rooms is a wonderful base for exploring the Bukit.
La Cabane Bali, Jl Pantai Balangan, Biu Biu, Balangan Beach, +62 818 565 839 e. info@lacabanebali.com.
BoHo Bingin Beach Bali
Just steps away from gorgeous Bingin beach, BoHo is a haven of good vibes for the nomadic traveller. Think super sophisticated Asian designs complemented by authentic ethnic touches and exotic artefacts from all over the globe; Javanese antique furniture, Balinese daybeds, Thai silk bedspreads, Tibetan Thangkas and Sri Lankan chests – it’s all here. Nestled within 2,500 square meters of tropical gardens, BoHo Bingin regularly scores rave reviews for its utmost serenity, making it the ideal spot to settle in to the Bukit’s relaxed tempo.
BoHo Bingin Beach, Bingin Beach, Pecatu, +62 81 246 964 598.
The Inn Possible Bingin
Simple, sandy living right on the beach, The Inn Possible is another little gem down on the cliffs of Bingin. A modest guesthouse with five-star views over the famed surf breaks of Impossibles and Bingin, the Inn has been drawing in the boho budget traveller with its sand-in-your-toes moments and constant sound of the sea from within the basic but comfy rooms. Eight en-suite guest rooms share a breezy, beachy vibe, and offer direct access to the coral sands and turquoise lagoon right out front. In the mood for food? There’s a restaurant onsite and even a Penthouse suite if you want to up the budget and the breathtaking views.
The Inn Possible Bingin, Jl Pantai Bingin, Pecatu, p. +62 831 1502 5429, e. dream@theinnpossible.com.
SPLURGE STAYS
Luxurious places to stay in Uluwatu that are worth the spend
The Ungasan Clifftop Resort
Beverly Hills comes to the Bukit. The Ungasan Clifftop Resort’s collection of sprawling five-bedroom villas offer a range of luxurious living options set amongst a gated community that features stunning grounds, tennis courts and its very own hedonistic sandy bay destination, Sundays Beach Club. Each spacious villa has been designed to be unique, and can comfortably handle large groups and families who are looking to relax in secluded cliff-top splendour.
The Ungasan Clifftop Resort, Jl Pantai Selatan Gau, Banjar Wijaya Kusuma, Ungasan, +62 811 942 1110 e. reservations@theungasan.com.
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 (not to mention the most breathtaking private villas we’ve ever seen) this paradisal all-villa resort stands out from the rest and will not disappoint.
Alila Villas Uluwatu, Jl Belimbing Sari, Banjar Tambiyak, Desa Pecatu, Uluwatu, Pecatu, +62 361 848 2166 e. uluwatu@alilahotels.com.
Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu
We can’t get enough of Radisson Blu Hotels. Their signature “Yes I Can” service philosophy, always-stylish designs and stunning Suites exceed all expectations. The enormous rooms are decked out with high-tech amenities and the comfiest beds we’ve ever slept in, and a pet-friendly policy means Fido can snuggle in too. Well, all of this and more can be found at Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu, teetering on the edge of the Bukit cliffs across a five-star expanse of tropical luxury. Scrummy restaurants, a fabulous spa and an oasis-like swimming pool surrounded by swaying palms are just a few of the reasons Radisson Blu has become one of our forever faves.
Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu, Jl Pemutih Uluwatu, Pecatu, p. +62 361 3008888, e. reservation_rdbu@radisson.com.
Uluwatu Surf Villas
Standing guard over the iconic surf beach of Uluwatu – made famous by the 1960’s flick “Morning of the Earth” – Uluwatu Surf Villas is a favourite haunt for savvy travellers, pro surfers, yoga devotees and the occasional travelling celeb musician. Rise at dawn to salute the sun looking out over the sparkly Indian Ocean below, before settling into a long black and healthy brekky bowl on the porch of your traditional-style thatched villa. Amble on down to the famous cave where at low tide you can explore the huge reef, before heading up to catch a sunset session at Mana Uluwatu – the resort’s signature new restaurant that keeps us coming back every weekend for epic cocktails and the best goddamn tacos around.
Uluwatu Surf Villas, Jl Pantai Suluban, Uluwatu, +62 81 755 5365 e. info@uluwatusurfvillas.com.
Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort
With its ingenious design and rugged natural beauty, Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort is an extraordinary cliffside sanctuary that cascades down bedrock. The truly spacious ocean view suites, pool villas and duplex penthouses come with all the luxury comforts you need, like outdoor Jacuzzis, private balconies and surround-sound home entertainment systems, while the resort itself is scattered with fabulous restaurants, a spa, yoga studios and even a mini movie theatre. Top tip: check out the Teppanyaki restaurant on the top floor – it’ll set your dinner plans on fire!
Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort, Jl Pemutih, Labuan Sait, Uluwatu, p. +62 361 895 7555, e. uluwatu@anantara.com.
The Edge
Billed as a ‘super villa’, things don’t get much more opulent than at The Edge, a multi-level Bukit beaut. Perched right on the cliff edge (there’s a clue in the name) a stay here feels very much like staying at the edge of the world, but with all the lavish comforts you’d expect from a six-star resort: butlers, tennis courts, two restaurants, and even a freakin’ bowling alley, not to mention one of the world’s most jaw-dropping infinity pools located at the onsite cliff club, oneeighty°. The villas here are beyond breathtaking, with multi-storeys for the best vistas around. For a real splurge, stay at The View Villa – the resort’s most opulent villa option with (you guessed it) sublime views.
The Edge, Jl Pura Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin, Pecatu, p. +62 361 847 0700, e. intouch@edge.mesahotelsandresorts.com
C151
If James Bond owned his own Bali villa estate, C151 would be it. Elite luxury is the name of the game at this extraordinary destination, with every gadget and ultra-modern amenity you can imagine. Each of the private villas have their own swimming pools, jacuzzis, steam rooms and gym, not to mention pool tables, outdoor bars, kitchens and entertainment centres. Even the pool is hooked up to the superstar sound system, meaning you can listen to music while you’re submerged underwater. Yup, 007 himself would raise a martini or two to C151.
C151 Luxury Villas, Dreamland, Pecatu, p. +62 361 739151, e. reservations@c151.net
Karma Kandara
This one’s for the jetsetters. Karma Kandara is one of Bali’s most exclusive Bukit retreats, 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 beach clubs in Asia; Karma Beach. Simple yet elegant, the unmatched quality and service of Karma Kandara make it one of our absolute faves.
Karma Kandara, Jl Villa Kandara, Banjar Wijaya Kusuma, Ungasan, +62 361 848 2202 e. res@karmaresorts.com.
Suarga Padang Padang
Perched high on the cliffs above picturesque Padang Padang beach, this magical resort is a feast for the senses, and the perfect spot to retreat from the world for a while. Its impressive bamboo structures and chic styling add to the vibe, as does the resort’s superb Dugong restaurant that’s making waves as one of the top spots for delish Indonesian fare.
Suarga Padang Padang, Jl Pantai Labuan Sait, Br. Dinas Labuan Sait Pecatu, +62 361 472 5088 e. reservation@suarga.com.
Bvlgari Resort Bali
With a grand setting on Bali’s dramatic southern coast, Bvlgari is opulent living through and through. 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 on the Island of the Gods. Nothing’s impossible here; from outer island excursions to helicopter tours over Bali’s breathtaking scenery – this stay is certainly worth the splurge.
Bvlgari Resort Bali, Jl Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin Uluwatu, +62 361 847 1000 e. infobali@bulgarihotels.com.
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