There are few islands in the world that do luxury like Bali. From swanky hotels and resorts to private villas and world-class settings, it’s truly the Island of the Gods. To uncover Bali’s most OTT luxury experiences, we asked long-time Bali experts and co-founders of cool website The Bali Bible, Simon and Lani te Hennepe, for their favourite spots. Prepare for serious luxury overload…
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Seminyak Beach
“As the undisputed fashion centre of Bali, trendy Seminyak has looking good down pat. With toes-in-the-sand appeal and luxe beachfront accommodation like The Samaya, this stretch of coast remains a favourite among Bali lovers. Spend a day relaxing on its sand, or drop in for a sundowner and soak up that Seminyak sunset.”
Kayumanis Nusa Dua
“Nusa Dua is a much-loved enclave for those seeking a quieter kind of beachside bliss. With stretches of white sandy beaches and upscale resorts like Kayumanis Nusa Dua Private Villas & Spa, it has the best of old and new Bali in spades. Whether it’s enjoying a holistic treatment at the Kayumanis Spa, then a cheeky sundowner and a meal at the resort’s beach club, or exploring the town on a bicycle (your own butler along for the ride!), time spent in this luxurious resort is always spent well.”
Sundays Beach Club
“Located on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, and part of the luxurious Ungasan Clifftop Resort, Sundays Beach Club makes the most of its pristine stretch of sand and surf. Resort-goers and day trippers alike can drink in the ocean views (along with a cocktail or two) under the breezy, thatched-roof shades, and delight in a vibrant, seasonal menu conceived by two-hatted chef, James Viles from Biota Dining in Australia, and executed by fellow Biota alumnus, Ryan Kovac. The laid-back vibe and world-class food will keep you lingering just a little longer here.”
Lembongan Beach Club & Resort
“A mere 30-minute boat ride from Sanur will deposit you on the island of Nusa Lembongan. Once the domain of surfers and backpackers, the island is growing in popularity, thanks to luxe resorts like Lembongan Beach Club & Resort. Set on Jungut Batu beach, with 37 private villas (most with their own pool), it’s a boutique base from which to explore the island. Dive deep into coral enclaves, go surfing or just chill with a fresh coconut.”
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Hanging Gardens of Bali
“Expect once-in-a-lifetime experiences at this resort. Enjoy Balinese spa treatments overlooking the Ayung river. Relax on plush cushions with a gourmet picnic by the river, served by your own private waiter, in a romantic riverside bale. Or dine at the ancient Dalem Segara Temple, where your personal chef will serve a private gourmet dinner – but only after you’ve received a blessing and symbolic Hindu purification ritual by the resident Balinese priest.”
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