The Best Hotels to Book in Seminyak, Bali

Despite being in the heart of Seminyak’s action, you’d never know it, based on the serene setting at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach. The gargantuan pool points straight to the ocean, flanked by modern sun decks where homemade rolled ice cream and thirst-quenching cocktails are on offer all day. Spa experiences range from fresh sea-salt scrubs to traditional Balinese massages, and the onsite Pottery Cafe is a highlight.

The maze-like, terraced pool at W Bali sits against the black sand shoreline of Seminyak, with a design inspired by Bali’s sprawling rice fields. Low-hanging lanterns illuminate their beachside bar and restaurant, which dishes up an Indonesian-inspired BBQ every Sunday. With a 24-hour spa, morning yoga classes and full-service business centre, they don’t skimp on amenities whatsoever.

Bird’s eye views of Seminyak and beyond are a selling point of U Paasha Seminyak Bali, a modern contemporary-style hotel equipped with an enormous rooftop pool, bar and restaurant. Geometric mirrors and inventive light fixtures give it a trendy city feel with a tropical twist. Snag a lychee martini (or three) poolside and watch the sunset from the hotel’s lofty heights.

Not only is Potato Head one of Bali’s sought-after beachside hangout spots, it’s an art-focused, creatively designed place to call home while you’re in town. Self-described as a ‘radical playground’, Potato Head Studios — their accommodation section — is both imaginative and sustainable. Their in-room bars feature custom cocktail tools and infused spirits, along with comfy slippers made from coconut husks that are fully biodegradable. Unique is an understatement.

Located next to Pura Petitenget, a Hindu temple built in the 15th century, Alila Seminyak is within steps of cultural experiences and also Seminyak’s social scene. Five infinity pools are dispersed throughout the resort, with special designation for adults, families and events. The in-house Seasalt restaurant (which does in fact use locally-sourced salt) dishes up Japanese-inspired dishes and fresh caught seafood all day long. The terraced landscape with wall-hugging greenery makes the perfect backdrop.

Slightly more inland than its counterparts, Aston Kuta Hotel and Residence is fit for both business and luxury vacationing, depending on what brings you to Bali. The impressive outer gates will lead you into a grand-sized resort with a sandy beach pool — for when the 10-minute drive to the coast is too far — along with a spa, kids’ club, a massive ballroom and an open-air rooftop bar on the 18th floor. Be sure to stick around for a live acoustic performance or two.

Budget-minded travellers who still want an upscale experience can find it at Pelangi Bali Hotel & Spa. With rolling waves as a background soundtrack, the hotel is well-located right on the water but only a two-minute walk from Seminyak’s many boutiques and eateries. Their cerulean-coloured pool is complemented by a swim-up bar, giving it that oh-so classic tropical feel. For a break from nightlife, cosy up with a movie downstairs in front of the big screen at their XO Lounge Lobby Bar.

Seeing as the rooftop infinity pool lines up perfectly with the ocean’s horizon, Aloft Bali Seminyak clearly knows what it’s doing. This industrial-inspired hotel overlooks Batu Belig Beach, with a vibrant feel thanks to brightly coloured furnishings and the XYZ Bar, accompanied by a long list of cocktails and a billiards table. With rainforest showers and open-air bathtubs, it’s a fitting tropical experience.

Built in a style inspired by a Balinese village, the Grand Balisani Suites are well-decorated with hand-crafted woodworking, locally sourced artwork and garden-side lotus ponds. The multi-level pool has a swim-up bar, a formidable spot to snag a Bintang beer while overlooking the sparkling ocean. Choose between ocean or garden view rooms, suites, or the fully-private Sani Villa. Thankfully, hunger is never a worry here with the buffet-style restaurant offering Indonesian, Chinese and various Western plates.