The Best Resorts to Book in Bali

On the powder-soft shoreline of Nusa Dua lies Bali Tropic Resort & Spa, a boutique retreat with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. Palm-thatched cabanas are just steps away from the Sriwedari Sunken Bar, where you can swim right up and grab a mojito or three. Their bungalows and traditional Balinese-style suites are even more relaxing after an afternoon spent at the onsite spa.

For close proximity to the nightlife in buzzy Seminyak without all the noise, Padma Resort Legian is the ideal hideaway. The well-manicured grounds and five-star amenities are less than 20 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport, making arrival an absolute breeze. Take your pick between five pools — yes, five — the main pool, lagoon, family, infinity, and their beach club pool.

A palm-fringed lawn right up against the turquoise waters of Candidasa is enough of a reason to stay at Candi Beach Resort and Spa. Skip the crowds at other spots and head 90 minutes east of the airport, where you’ll find a private shoreline backed by craggy mountains. The myriad of onsite activities include yoga, temple visits, snorkelling and cooking classes — to name a few.

Beachfront luxury is epitomized at The Apurva Kempinski Bali, a clifftop resort in Nusa Dua that completely sums up the word opulence. This five-star accommodation comprises 475 carefully decorated rooms, over half of which have their own private plunge pools. Izakaya by Oku, their onsite restaurant, features delicately plated masterpieces that taste as good as they look.

Reminiscent of an art museum, Tanah Gajah’s 20 individual villas are aesthetic pleasure at its finest — with intricate water gardens, high ceilings, and an endless array of original Balinese artworks. Lush, verdant rice fields surround the grounds, making it a hidden world of creative luxury, just outside of central Ubud. Thoughtful touches, like flower petal-filled baths and afternoon tea, make this place even more magical than meets the eye.

When the morning mist hangs low atop the organic-shaped infinity pool (all 89m of it) at Padma Resort Ubud, it’s easy to understand why this resort is top-rated among travellers. Balinese cultural performances, including the Barong and Kecak dances, take place right onsite. Between agroforestry tours, jungle treks and yoga classes set in a giant bamboo nest — no amenity is left out.

The iconic and elegant Anantara Uluwatu resort is a result of architectural brilliance and an excellent location. Perched on the top of the cliffs of Uluwatu, the building meanders down to the beach, leaving a trail of scenic structures along the way. There are so many lavish ways to enjoy your day at this resort, from dipping into the infinity pool to indulging yourself at the in-house spa, playing golf to joining a yoga class. Romantic enough for a honeymoon destination and cosy enough for a family trip, this resort is arguably one of the best in the surfer paradise of Uluwatu.

Located in the heart of the vibrant Seminyak Beach, W Bali certainly matches the lively atmosphere surrounding it. The world-class, multi-tiered pool is among the most popular in Bali – even those not staying at the hotel pay to hang out and sip cocktails here. Just like the Seminyak neighbourhood, W Bali is alive around the clock, with all-night raves and DJ performances. Rest assured though, if you fancy an early night, the quiet rooms (complete with luxury bed linen and views of the Indian ocean) will provide welcome respite.

Nestled strategically between the coastlines of Lombok Strait and the backdrop of the magnificent Mount Agung, a breath-taking view is guaranteed when staying at the Amankila. Located far from mainstream tourist destinations like Seminyak or even Ubud, the resort offers a distinctive experience dwelling in the rural countryside, where you’ll be charmed by the local history, wisdom, art, and culture.

More than just accommodation, a stay at COMO Shambala Estate could easily be a spiritual journey that changes your life forever. Promoting holistic health and wellness, the resort offers nothing less than the whole package; from yoga teachers to dieticians, an entire team of experts will help you feel rejuvenated on departure. The limited suites and private villas are nestled in the gorge of the sacred Ayung River. Hit up Glow cafe for healthy dishes, like grilled mahi-mahi with cucumber and melon gazpacho, finished with tropical fruit grown on the estate.

Who says staying in a five-star resort means missing out on nature? The Menjangan Dynasty Resort is a glamping resort – but in true luxury style. Expect freestanding baths, marble floors and luxurious double beds in your yurt. The real highlight here is the five-star PADI dive centre onsite, where you can dive among the pristine reefs of Menjangan Island, located on the far west of Bali. Despite its rural feel, expect high-end amenities, such as the lavish outdoor pool and Pasir Putih Beach Club & Bar, which serves tapas and pad thai under a bamboo canopy.

Located in the Valley of the Kings, where generations of Balinese royals have lived, Viceroy will make you feel like nobility. Surrounded by lush jungle just outside Ubud, the view is only topped by the services and facilities, which include a five-star bar, restaurant, fitness centre, infinity pool and library. Each of the 40 private villas is furnished with a private pool, making it a perfect honeymoon destination.

Practicing yoga atop a paddleboard at the edge of a cliffside infinity pool sounds like a hippie’s fever dream, but it’s a daily activity at Alila Villas Uluwatu. The spa has a nonstop soundtrack of tumbling waves and chirping birds, offering therapeutic massages and quick pick-me-ups. Wholesome and traditional Indonesian fare topped with fragrant sambal sauce is available at The Warung, an in-house eatery dishing up local favourites.