Magical, colorful, stunning and always warm - it's no wonder that Bali has long been a favorite for travelers from all over the world. However, what stands out most about this Indonesian island, and is increasingly recognized around the world, are its luxury resorts.
So, what exactly makes Bali so perfect for a luxury escape? Quite simply, your wildest dreams come true on this island, let's just say - swimming in a private pool that hangs over the rippling sea? Spending the middle of the day with a four-hand massage? Or maybe both? Oh yes of course - that's just the beginning. Tempted, and ready to book? Hold on, read on.
The Mulia Bali, Nusa Dua
One of three resorts in the Mulia complex in Nusa Dua, The Mulia is a celebrity favorite - a hedonistic wonderland consisting of 3 award-winning properties combined into one expansive world-class retreat along 1km of pristine beach in Nusa Dua. The sheer size and scale of the resort is impressive with marble floors, glass chandeliers, fountains, expansive ceilings, ocean views, beachfront infinity pools and extensive gardens - offering a magnificent beachfront paradise.
The pool overlooking the beach and surrounded by white statues is one of the famous spots of the place. Nine restaurants, a luxurious spa, and a fitness center with daily group classes will make every day of your stay different. Okay a quick look at the food served at this reasort - A hearty breakfast and dessert buffet is offered at The Café, while Table 8 serves Cantonese & Szechuan dishes, Soleil by the pool offers Mediterranean & Pan-Asian dishes, and Edogin serves Teppanyaki - Oh, YUM!
Four Seasons Resort Bali At Sayan, Ubud
If your idea of a luxury vacation is to step into a tropical paradise, then Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, located on the thundering Ayung River, is a place you shouldn't miss. The highlight of this place? The huge lotus pond that looks like it's floating in mid-air - that's right, breathtaking. You will be greeted by everything you imagine Bali to be: green surroundings, frangipani trees, magenta bougainvillea, plum trees, and rice paddies. Absolutely stunning! No wonder Julia Roberts chose this place as the filming location for Eat, Pray, Love.
Located about 35 kilometers from Ngurah Rai International Airport, Four Seasons is the perfect retreat to start your Bali vacation. With 18 suites and 42 villas spread across 10 hectares of land, this peaceful retreat is not to be missed.
Andaz Bali, Sanur
Unlike other well-known areas like Seminyak or Canggu, Sanur is much quieter, making it a great place to relax while still having access to a variety of dining options nearby. Hyatt Regency Bali is located along Danau Tamblingan Road, which is full of local restaurants, cafes and boutiques. So, if a laid-back, luxury family vacation by the beach is what you’re after, Hyatt is for you.
The hotel sits on nine acres of tropical grounds and overlooks a beautiful white sandy beach, with 373 rooms featuring a modern design that blends Balinese and Japanese elements. As the Hyatt Regency faces east, it's the perfect place to watch the sunrise - or let your kids have fun building sand castles, swimming or relaxing by the beach. While they're busy playing, you can relax at the spa or take a dip in one of their three outdoor pools, the choice is yours!
Plataran Menjangan Resort, Buleleng
Now, this is one of those hidden gems, perfect for lovebirds looking for a quiet, romantic getaway. This ‘hideaway’ is located inside protected West Bali National Park, where deer and monkeys roam freely. You’ll be surrounded by lush forests, with dry leaves crackling beneath your vehicle as you drive deeper into the resort’s 17-room sanctuary, setting the tone for a peaceful journey ahead.
Dining at Plataran Menjangan is an experience in itself. Their Octagon restaurant offers stunning views of the ocean, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and Indonesian cuisine, watching the sun go down, while listening to the waves crash as you take a bite, romantic! To top it all off, you must’ve found yourself wanting to be pampered in one of the most peaceful places - Padma Spa, nestled in the middle of a mangrove forest, with spectacular views of Menjangan Island will be the perfect place to live out your dreams, relax and enjoy Bali's natural beauty.
The Apurva Kempinski, Nusa Dua
Apurva means 'unique and magnificent' in Sanskrit, and that's exactly what greets you the moment you arrive. If you want true luxury, this place is hard to beat. Just a 30-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, this five-star resort offers upscale elegance and incredible views, blending traditional Balinese elements with modern touches.
Offering a total of 475 rooms, suites and villas, ranging from 65 square meters to 1,379 square meters, small is definitely not in their vocabulary. The resort is simply stunning, with cascading swimming pools, lush tropical gardens and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. If you're impressed now, wait until you hear about their magnificent Koral Restaurant. This one restaurant really stands out. Offering a dining experience with exotic fish swimming around you and an incredible menu selection from One Michelin Star Executive Chef, Jean-Baptiste Natali - it's as cool as it sounds! If this isn't the perfect luxury stay, oh boy.. I don't know what is.
Final Thoughts
If you really pay close attention, you will realize that every article - news about Bali will talk about how this amazing island has tons of leisure destinations to offer. Well, can't blame the news because Bali is indeed the ultimate first-class escape, home to the best resorts in Asia, and these top picks just prove it. If you need a luxurious getaway from your routine or feel like you deserve to relax, Bali is the best place for you. So, pack your bags and get ready for that perfect vacation you've been dreaming of!