As Indonesian tourism prepares to resume, you will already be dreaming about white beaches, palm trees, and the quaint beach of Bali swinging by the wayside. What did you hold back then? Get ready to spoil yourself with a holiday at an unconventional Balinese resort. (Don’t forget the post-lockdown security measures though.)
Here is the list of the top five off-beat resorts in Bali, which are luxury and amazing.
Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort
Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort is your one-stop destination for quality hotel accommodations in Bali. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, here you can adopt the slow pace of life. Clifftop temples, hidden beaches, and experience some of the best surf breaks in the world. You can choose from a wide range of Bali design suites with seamless ocean views or the luxury of a pool. With a dramatic cliff-side on the Indian Ocean, get ready to indulge in the world of flavors offered at Uluwatu restaurants: 360 Roof Top, Botol Biru Bar & Grill, Sono Tipanaki, and many more. Relax in the Jacuzzi against a panorama of the sunset. Take some time to ride the waves of the famous Impossible Beach below.
Padma Resort Ubud
If you plan a trip to Bali completely and relax in a luxury five-star resort that is immersed in Bali’s rich heritage, art and culture, Padma Resort Ubud will not disappoint you. With a landscape of 6.8 hectares, the property has lush green gardens, tropical greenery, water features, swimming pools, and spectacular natural art. You will live in a Bali-inspired accommodation supported by world-class facilities, event venues, and warm hospitality. Witness the most beautiful sunsets, nightlife entertainment, restaurants, and boutique shops during your stay. Tickle your taste with a wide range of ‘Theme Buffet Dinners’. You can also choose from more than seven types of restaurants to dine with.
Samabe Bali Suites and Villas
Immersed in charm, elegance, and quality through a combination of modern and Bali in Samabe Bali Suites and Villas. The property hosts 81 luxury suites and villas, each with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. Relax in a luxury resort located on 8 hectares of quiet cliff-top land near Nusa Dua, the southernmost end of Bali. Swing around the breathtaking private beach with your loved ones and spoil them with one final experience and comfort. You can have a late dinner around the white sandy beach and naturally built caves. Start your day with a perfect breakfast in a high tea experience inside the beach cave. Later, hit the middle bar for a drinking session. Known as a digestible dining venue with a 4-course set menu, it ends its day at a fictional dining venue.
Capella Ubud
Enjoy early 1800s European inspired architecture, a eulogy for a sense of adventure designed by Bill Bensley. The property is covered with lush green forests and unique tented campuses in harmony with the surrounding nature. Capella Ubud has implemented all prevention policies and procedures recommended by the WHO and the CDC, including mandatory temperature checks and health announcements for the arrival of all suppliers and guests. Soak yourself in a private pool when you enjoy exceptionally personalized service and want to shake your heart with extraordinary experiences. Surprise your taste buds with traditional flavors influenced by the forest setting and local heritage.
The Legian Bali
Lives near the Balinese coast of the Seminyak beach which is home to sun, sea, and surf. The island is blessed with a prime stretch of golden sand adjoining the prettiest shops and Asia’s most stylish nightlife, the irreversible beginning of establishing this iconic sanctuary in the sand. The property is surrounded by modern architecture and waving coconut palms. The stunning sunset will enhance your memories, which is inside all 67 deemed suites, and The Beach House on the Indian Ocean. You can choose from beach views and tropical hideaway for your overseas stay. If you are a poetic bachelor and want pure time alone, stay across the street in 14 intimate pool villas, where individual butlers enjoy humble for the extraordinary amenities of The Legian Bali.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bali
Q. Which is the best time to visit Bali?
A. The months of May, June and July are considered to be the most popular and recommended months to be at Bali. However, depending on the kind of vacation you are looking for, you might want to plan your visit during the dry season or the monsoons. For example, if you are a surfer, the monsoon months of May and October present some of the best waves in world. However, it won’t be a great time for historical or cultural tours.
Q. What is the ideal duration for a holiday in Bali if I want to do various activities?
A. Bali is one of the most picturesque islands on this planet. There’s something for all kinds of traveler. Whether you are interested in adventure, culture or just a laid back beach destination with good food, there are opportunities that will overwhelm you. An ideal duration at Bali will thus depend on the kind of activities you will want to take part in. While exploring Bali can take a lifetime, honeymooners generally go for a two week vacation to cover the most recommended activities at a comfortable pace. The idea should be to enjoy the vacation and not push yourself to each destination.
Q. Is it worth visiting Bali for a honeymoon? What all activities honeymooners can do in Bali?
A. Bali a global honeymoon paradise, The islands with pristine beaches, lush green forests, volcanic mountains, intimate hotels and a romantic culture sets the pace for a cozy and memorable honeymoon vacation. At Bali, it’s the natural magic that draws in both newlyweds and couples in love to make memories for a lifetime. If you are planning a similar trip with your partner to Bali, here are some things you should definitely want to do:
- Castaway Cruises to Nusa Penida
- Excursion through Tanah Lot, Monkey Forest and Mengwi Temple
- An evening cruise with 5-course dinner
- Spa treatment
- Private photo shoot
- Couple’s Thai massage classes
- Private horseback riding across Tegallalang Rice Terraces
- Hand in hand in an Ubud cultural tour
- Dinner on traditional wooden ship
- A Private sunset dinner at Tanah Lot Temple
Q. Which all places are best for couples in Bali?
A. Bali is among the most sought after destinations for couples across the globe. The weather is pleasant all round the year, making it even more popular among honeymooners. When you are in Bali with your partner, you cannot miss a visit to:
- Uluwatu – temple beaches and cliffs
- Sanur – beautiful beaches and tranquil nature
- Ubud – green rice fields, art and passion
- Batur – for the adventure loving couples
- Gili Islands – the party island
- Tegenungan Waterfall – in the middle of jungle and in the lap of nature
- Canggu – great sunsets, emerald waters, expansive rice fields
- Jimbaran Beach – good food, beautiful beached, good people and a inviting local culture
- Pandawa Beach – for surf and that perfect moment with your partner
Q. Is Bali a good holiday destination for a family?
A. Traveling with your family, especially kids can be quite of a fun at Bali. There are several beaches that offer safe and yet private opportunities for a family to be together. Some of the best regions to travel with your family include Ubud, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Lovina, Sanur and Nusa Dua. You will want to visit temples, be a part of cultural excursions, trek to the mountains, enjoy water sports, visit the marine park/zoo and lastly enjoy the Balinese cuisine with your family.
Q. What kind of activities I can do in Bali?
A. The Island of Gods, Bali offers all that you can seek of a tourist destination. From outdoor fun to cozy massage therapies, there’s a wide range of offering. Consequently, Bali is considered as a tourist’s paradise – there is always something to enjoy for everyone.
- White Water Rafting at Ayung River
- Barbeque Seafood at Jimbaran Bay
- Waterbom Bali, Nusa Dua
- Bali Safari and Marine Park Tour
- Bali Zoo Tour
- Sunrise Trek to Mount Batur
- Devdan Show at Nusa Dua Theatre
- Ubud / Sightseeing Tour
- Shopping at Kuta Art Market
- Pirates Dinner Cruise
- Monkey Forest Tour
- Full Day Cycling at Carangsari Bay
- Three Island Cruise
- Trek to the Monkey Forest
- Trip to Blanco Resistance Museum
- What all adventure activities I can do in Bali?
- Scuba Diving at South Kuta
- Kite Surfing at Sanur, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua
- Sea Walking at Tenjung Benua
- River Rafting and Cycling along the Ayung River
- Cycling tour across Balinese coffee plantations
- Mountain Biking in Nusa Dua
- Dirt Biking in Kintamani and Tabanan
- Canyon Tubing in the Siap River
- Parasailing in the Tenjung Beach
- Underwater Scooter at Nusa Dua
- Jet Ski at Tenjung Benua
- Flying Fish in South Kuta
Q. How to experience Bali Eat, Pray and Love way?
A. The Bali Eat-Pray-Love tour can be life changing. Do as Julia Roberts did in the movie! The moment you arrive at the Denpasar International Airport, the scene won’t be too different from what you saw in the movie. The steel grey waters, beaches of Kuta to the umpteen number of foreign tourists in places like Seminyak, it’s a real match. Head on to the Samkhya Villas near the rice paddy fields of Ubud is where you follow Julia Roberts to find a similar accommodation. Follow her footsteps to the Hindu temples, lush rice terraces and get up close with the monkeys in the Monkey Forests nearby. Ubud is where the movie was filmed and this is also the most amazing part of Bali to be in!
Q. What all water sports I can do in Bali?
A. There are lot of enthralling water sports to do in Bali:
- Scuba Diving at South Kuta
- Kite Surfing at Sanur, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua
- Sea Walking at Tenjung Benua
- River Rafting and Cycling along the Ayung River Canyon Tubing in the Siap River
- Parasailing in the Tenjung Beach
- Underwater Scooter at Nusa Dua
- Jet Ski at Tenjung Benua
- Flying Fish in South Kuta
- Donut Boat Ride at South Kuta
- Surfing at Bukit Peninsula
- Reef Surfing at Legian Beach
A. You don’t really need to be a swimmer to enjoy the water sports opportunities in Bali. In most of the activities, you will be accompanied by a trained instructor and will be given safety equipment and clothing to ensure that you don’t drown. Except some activities like Reef Surfing and Category 3 White Water Rafting, you should be able to participate in most of them. Bali water sports is fun!
Q. Where can I do Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Bali and what will be the cost?
A. Bali’s beaches are one of the cleanest across the globe. You will literally be tempted to get underneath and check out the marine life for yourself.
Some of Bali’s best snorkeling and scuba diving locations are at PadangBai, Nusa Dua, Mejangan Islands, Amed, Candi Dasa, Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Lembongan and Tulamben.
For the more experienced divers, the locations would be Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay, Manta Point and Toyapakeh.
A basic dive at places like Tulamben would cost you about Rp 1,306,800
Q. What sort of activities are enjoyable by children in Bali?
A. Bali with kids is fun! Check out the following places for a great family time:
- Waterbom Bali
- Rip Curl School of Surf
- Bali Safari and Marine Park
- Ayung River Rafting
- Bali Wake Park
- Kemenuh Butterfly Park
- Banana Boat Rides
- Bounce Ball Trampoline Center
- Dream Museum Zone Trick-Eye Gallery
- Bali Treetop Adventure Park
Q. Which are some famous sightseeing options in Bali?
A. Some of the interesting sightseeing options in Bali include:
- Tanah Lot Temple, Tabanan
- Uluwatu Temple, Uluwatu
- Besakih Temple, East Bali
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Ubud
- Ubud Monkey Forest, Ubud
- Ubud Art Market, Ubud
- Mount Batur and Kintamani, Central Bali
- Bali Safari and Marine Park, Gianyar
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Tabanan
- Goa Gajah, Gianyar
Q. Where can I do Seawalking in Bali? How much it will cost me to do Seawalking in Bali?
A. A sea walking adventure is a perfect way to check out the marine life around Bali and is suitable even for participants with little or no knowledge of swimming. The best sea walk experience can be had at Sanur. You can also check out the sea diving facilities at Kota Denpasar and Nusa Dua. In most cases, a sea walking adventure can be arranged by the hotel you are staying at.
Q. Can I do kayaking in Bali? How much it will cost me? Where can I do it?
A. Kayaking is easy fun and completely safe for any kind of participant. Even kids can enjoy kayaking. Kayaking is organized at Nusa Ceningan, Legian, Nusa Lembongan, Singaraja, Tanjung Benoa, Kuta and Ubud. You also have the opportunity to enjoy the only sea kayak at Pandawa Beach.
Q. Can I do horse riding in Bali? Where can I do it?
A. Horse riding in Bali is an amazing way to check out the countryside and rice terraces around Bali. It is also a must recommended activity if you are traveling with your partner. Several operators will be able to arrange private horse riding tours. The best places to go horse riding in Bali include the east coast of Savannah Bay, Gianyar, Nusa Penida, Papuan Village, Badung, Tegallalang, Payangan, Menjangan, Canggu, Tabanan, and Mount Agung.
Q. Can I visit the Elephant Safari Park?
A. The Elephant Safari Park allows you to get up-close with the majestic Sumatran Elephants and will be an experience of a lifetime. Cared in a healthy and stimulating environment, the Elephant Safari will take you across the tranquil botanical gardens and a paradise of a jungle. The best thing is that you can enjoy the elephant back ride with your whole family.
Q. Which all waterfalls I can see in Bali?
A. Below is the list of waterfalls –
- Tegunungan Waterfall, Gianyar
- Gitigit Waterfall, Kabupaten Buleleng
- Aling-Aling Waterfall, Kabupaten Buleleng
- Blahmantung Waterfall, Tebanan
- Singsing Waterfall, Buleleng
- Munduk Waterfall, Kabupaten Buleleng
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Kabupaten Bangli
- Kanto Lampo Waterfall, Gianyar
- Nungnung Waterfall, Kabupaten Badung
- Tibumana Waterfall, Kabupaten Bangli
- Dusun Kuning Waterfall, Kabupaten Bangli
- Banyumala Waterfall, Buleleng
- Sekumpul Waterfall, Kabupaten Buleleng
- Golden Valley Waterfall, Buleleng
- Air Terjun Waterfall, Badung
Q. Can I do Campuhan Ridge Walk?
A. An easy but highly rejuvenating nature walk, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is highly popular among all kinds of visitors to Central Bali. The activity offers a great retreat and escape from the contemporary boutique scene in Bali. Sometimes, you just need some time alone and in peace!
Q. Which places are best for trekking in Bali?
A. Some of the trekking options in Bali includes:
- Mount Batur, also famous for its active volcano and an amazing sunrise
- Trekking in Sambangan in Northern Bali
- North Bali Appreciation Tour to Kintamani
- Mount Agung Sunrise Trek, Kintamani
- Which are the best water/amusement parks in Bali? How much is the entry fee?
- Waterbom Bali, Kuta – entry: US$ 35
- Jawa Timur Park 2 – entry: US$ 10
- Taman Safari Indonesia Cisarua – entry: free
- Batu Eco Green Park Fun and Study – entry: free
Q. Can I visit the Ubud Royal Palace? Is it worth watching Royal Palace Cultural Night Performances?
A. One of the most popular attractions in Ubud, it’s the focal landmark of Bali. The architecture goes back to the 1800s and is well kept through upkeep and regular cultural activities and festivals being organized in its premises. It is highly recommended that you become a part of the Royal Palace Cultural Night Performance to get a glimpse into the secret and enchanting Ubud. Apart from the very well preserved Balinese architecture, and he charming garden setting, the dance and the music can be an explosive experience.
Q. Can I do river rafting in Bali? Is it safe?
A. River Rafting in Bali is one of the most recommended adventure activities. The best thing is that anyone above the age of 10 can be a part of it. Rafting instructors come highly trained and you will be well geared up to be safe for any kind of eventuality. It is necessary that you follow the rafting guidelines recommended by organizers.
Q. Can I do a cycling tour of Bali? Which places are good for cycling?
A. Cycling is a much more laid back way to get across Bali and can be a great way to check out the country. There are several trails all across that let you experience the natural setting. Cycling is also one of the recommended ways to do a tour if you are traveling with your partner. The best cycling tours can be found in:
- Ubud
- Kintamani
- Bongkasa Village
- Sanur Village
- Batur Village
- Kerobokan
- Yeh Gangaa
- Putung to Virgin Beach
- Sangeh Village
Q. Can I see Bali Trick Art Gallery? How much is the entry fee?
A. The Trick Art Gallery or Museum is a unique experience for anyone in Bali and is especially loved by kids. It’s a museum show casing illusions and a variety of magical enfeeblements.
Q. Which beaches are must to visit in Bali?
A. Apart from some beautiful places to visit in Bali, there are n number of beaches which are an added cherry to the cake. These includes:
- Pedang Pedang Beach
- Suluban Beach
- Balangan Beach
- Pandawa Beach
- Dreamland Beach
- Bingin Beach
- Green Bowl Beach
- Nyang Nyang Beach
- Melasti Beach
- Tegal Wangi Beach
- Blue Point Beach
- Pandawa Beach
Q. Can I see Mount Batur? What is special about it?
A. Mount Batur or Gunung Batur is located North West to Mount Agung in Bali on the southern side of the mountain is the Caldera Lake. Mount Batur hosts an active volcano and the eruption is visible across the year. In fact, it is one of the most forceful eruptions on this planet. Mount Batur is also believed to be one of the most sacred mountains by the locals and several adventure tourists take on the fairly physical Mount Batur trek. The peak is about 1000 meters above sea level and takes about two hours to reach on foot.
Q. Can I do canoeing in Bali? Where can I do it? Is it safe?
A. Canoeing in Bali is one of the most recommended adventure activities. The best thing is that anyone above the age of 10 can be a part of it. Canoeing instructors come highly trained and you will be well geared up to be safe for any kind of eventuality. It is necessary that you follow the rafting guidelines recommended by organizers. The best places for canoeing include:
- Amed
- Kuta
- Lombok
- Taman
Q. Can I visit Bali Safari & Marine Park? What is special about it?
A. A perfect fun day for family and couples, the Bali Safari and Marine Park holds wildlife adventures that include elephant trekking, cycling through forest roads. It is one of the most visited animal parks that was opened back in 2007 and since then it has been one of the most visited places in Bali. It is home to over 60 species of wildlife that roam freely around, thus offering you an experience that is livening.
Q. What sort of Cruise activities can be done in Bali?
A. A cruise ride across the Bali Ocean is a must. It has been one of the most popular activities among honeymooners. Consequently, you seek a range of cruise rides, ranging from whole day cruises to night cruises and even private cruises. Cruise rides are always accompanies by 4 course meals, cocktails and a lot of fun, music and dance.
Q. Where can I watch dolphins in Bali?
A. The best place of watch dolphins is the Lovina Beach. A cruise ride will let you experience dozens of them in unison!
Q. Can I do a helicopter tour in Bali? How much it will cost to me?
A. Helicopter rides will be a unique way to check out the Bali Islands. You can soak in the bird’s eye view of the smoking volcanoes, stepped rice fields, long stretch of pristine beaches, enchanting lighthouses, cliffs, old temples, surf breaks and highland lakes.
Q. Which are the best restaurants of Bali? What cuisines I must try?
A. There’s a range of restaurants that you can find across Bali. Ranging from luxury to budget, the food in most is awesome. It would be great to experiment with the local food around. Top restaurants to try out when on a honeymoon include:
- Mozaic in Ubud
- Mozaic Beach Club at Seminyak
- Metis Lounge at Seminyak
- Sarong at Seminyak
- Mama San at Seminyak
- La Lucciola at Seminyak
- Cuca Flavor at Jimbaran Bay
- II Ristorante at Uluwatu
- JuMaNa at Uluwatu
- Warung at Uluwatu
Q. What kind of nightlife I can enjoy in Bali?
A. Bali offers a very happening nightlife. Soon as the sun sets in the horizon and over the Sea, several nightclub open their doors to extravaganza. The nightlife ranges from sports bar to dance floors and crazy clubbing!
Q. What are drinking, smoking and drug laws in Bali?
A. The legal drinking age in Bali is 17 years. It is however not recommended to drink in public places. Alcohol is however always available across private beaches, resorts and restaurants. Similarly, smoking too isn’t recommended in public places. However, cigarettes are widely available in local shops.
Q. Which all places are good for yoga and meditation in Bali?
A. Some of the best yoga retreats in Bali include:
- Fiveelements, Badung
- Soulshine Yoga Retreat, Ubud
- Desa Seni Yoga Retreat, Canggu
- Abing Terrace, Gianyar
- Floating Leaf Eco Gianyar
- Naya Ubud, Ubud
Q. Which spas are good in Bali? How much will be the cost?
A. A spa in Bali in the backdrop of the blue ocean can be a rejuvenating experience. Check out the following places:
- Thermes Marins & Spa on the Rocks, Jimbaran – US$ 500
- Riverside Spa at Maya, Ubud – US$ 50-85
- Royal Kirana Spa, Ubud – US$ 375
- Fiveelements, Puri Ahimsa, Mambal – US$ 188
- Lembah Spa, Ubud – US$175
- Karma Spa, Ungasan – US$112
- Mango Tree Spa, Ubud – US$102
- Soori Spa, Tabanan – US$155
- The Spa at Bulgari Resort Bali – US$750
- Prana Spa, Seminyak – US$5
Q. Which places are good for shopping? What I must buy from Bali?
A. The best places for shopping and the things each is famous for include:
- Seminyak / Petitenget for designer threads
- Seminyak / Ubud / Kerobokan for Home wares
- Kuta / Legian / Seminyak and Ngurah Rai for surf gear
- Seminyak / Denpasar and Kerobokan for Furniture
- Ubud / Canggu / Gianyar and Denpasar for local markets and souvenirs
Q. How much it will cost me if want to rent a villa in Bali? Which place is good for villa stay in Bali?
A. Renting a villa in Bali offers you privacy amidst all kinds of amenities. There are several properties available all across the country and you can choose depending on the location and budget. Look for Airbnb for the best offers. The average price you pay for renting a villa is about $1400 for a month. A 1 bedroom villa on the other hand will cost about $750 a month. You can find cheaper properties with a bit of a search. Advanced booking also allows you discounted rates. The best places for your villa search in Bali include:
- Kuta
- Seminyak
- Sanur
- Ubud
- Uluwatu
- Lovina
Q. What kind of health precautions one should take before participating in any activity? Do I need to have some medicines along with me?
A. For anyone traveling to Bali, you might need to take medication before, during and after your trip. Recently, Zika Virus has been announced as a risk in parts of Indonesia. Pregnant women are recommended to take extra precautions. Apart from that, all travelers should take steps that prevent any mosquito bites and sexual exposure during and post trip.
- Routine vaccines for general travelers include MMR, DTP, Chickpox vaccine, polio and your annual flu shot
- Hepatitis A vaccine as there is a likely chance of exposure from contaminated water and food
- Typhoid vaccine since water sanitation is a problem in Indonesia
You might also want to consult your doctor before your visit for other recommended vaccines that may include Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephelatis, Malaria, Rabies and Yellow Fever.
The key to health safety in Bali is:
- To get vaccinated
- Eat and drink at hygienic places
- Keep away from animal contact, especially the domestic ones
- Prevent any kind of bug bite
- Use insect repellents
- Avoid non-sterile cosmetic equipment
- Avoid sharing body fluids
