Time and again Bali is voted the world’s best travel destination, and it’s not hard to see why. With spectacular beaches, fascinating culture, welcoming locals and a genuine sense of spirituality, this unique Indonesian island is many people’s idea of paradise. Home to some of best resorts in the world, choosing where to stay in Bali can be difficult. To help make it a bit easier, here are three of the best luxury resorts on the island:
Best For Couples: Samabe Bali Resort
Samabe Bali is the best example of sophisticated Balinese luxury. Perched upon the scenic cliffs of southern Nusa Dua, Samabe is an astonishingly beautiful resort and an ideal choice for couples looking for an intimate break. With only 81 villas scattered through eight hectares of land, Samabe offers a sense of peace and privacy that’s missing from other resorts: you’ll feel you have the entire place to yourself.
The thatched roof villas are stylish and spacious—bigger than many apartments. Enormous living areas lead through to large bedrooms and bright, airy bathrooms, and many villas come with their own private swimming pool. The resort pool area has three interconnected pools overlooking the shimmering ocean, and unlike other resorts it never gets crowded here. Relax, lie back on your sunlounger and sip a cocktail from the pool bar as you admire the view.
Given Samabe's cliff-side location, the resort boasts uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean from almost every perspective. There’s a private white sand beach with its very own cave where you can enjoy afternoon tea in the shade; why not choose to eat here in the evening for an unforgettable dining experience? The resort restaurant, Rempah-Rempah, provides exceptional food throughout the day, and the morning breakfast buffet is unrivalled.
With first-rate facilities and service and some of the most magnificent natural surroundings imaginable, Samabe Bali is the perfect romantic getaway.
Best For Beachside Cool: Alila Seminyak
Seminyak is the upscale tourist hub of Bali, and this vibrant, bustling area is beloved by surfers and sun worshippers alike. It can be hectic, but staying at Alila Seminyak is like escaping to your own private paradise. Situated on the quieter side of Seminyak—right on the beach—this modern and glamorous hotel is the epitome of tropical cool.
The decor is minimalist and innovative—think clean lines, sunken sofas and wall-climbing plants—and the location and outside area is the main focus of the resort. As you leave the lobby you’ll be treated by jaw-dropping views of a 200-year-old Hindu temple, the crashing Indian Ocean, and an impossibly stylish infinity pool (there are five pools at Alila Seminyak…)
Spa Alila provides bespoke treatments using only natural local ingredients, and guests can have a go at yoga during the complimentary morning sessions. The bedrooms are spacious and modern, with light colours and natural fabrics complementing the dark wood and stone trimmings. The bathroom areas are huge, with sliding doors opening onto a dressing area with wardrobes, his-and-her sinks and plenty of luxurious toiletries.
The shady beach bar is the respite from the hot Balinese sun, and there’s a wide array of fresh cocktails that are delicious as a post-swim treat. The Seasalt restaurant is ideally situated on the terrace, providing guests with sensational views of the ocean and stars as they eat.
Best For Families: Grand Mirage Resort
Many resorts in Bali are geared towards couples, but there’s one five-star resort that’s perfect for families. Providing a more affordable slice of Balinese luxury, Grand Mirage Resort boasts more water-activities than any other resort in Bali; if you’re traveling with lively kids it’s hard to think of a better place.
This beachfront resort has five different food and beverage outlets, so no matter how fussy your kids might be you’ll definitely find something they’re happy with. There’s Jukung Grill (grilled seafood and meat), La Cascata (Italian), Grand Cafe Restaurant (all day dining), Chopstick Restaurant (Chinese) and Rama Stage (Theme Buffet with Entertainment).
Aside from a pristine private beach, kids’ club and children’s pool, Grand Mirage Resort offers a wealth of unlimited watersports – from ocean kayaking to catamaran sailing and windsurfing to parasailing. There are countless activities to do on dry land if you don’t fancy hitting the water, too: you can try your hand at tennis, pool, karaoke, or visit the fitness or games center.
Grand Mirage Resort is just as much fun for adults, however. Parents can take advantage of the decadent treatments at the Thalasso Bali spa, or enjoy sipping on coconut cocktails at the swim-up pool bar. There are exciting shows and fun entertainment provided each day, which gives families a chance to experience a glimpse of some authentic Balinese culture during their vacation.
