Bali is the gift that keeps on giving. This perennial favourite destination stuns time and again with its diversity. Think soul-searching experiences in the lush jungles of Ubud, thrilling adventures in Tanah Lot’s mighty surfs, and cosmopolitan pursuits in the buzzy cafés, restaurants, and beach clubs of Kuta and Canggu. All this to say – this island is always worth a revisit.
Travellers looking for a touch of luxury will do well in the south of Bali. A relatively quiet region, it’s dotted with 5-star hotels that offer bespoke experiences steeped in Balinese culture and tradition. Three resorts come at the top of our list: Umana Bali for a blissful hideaway in stunning villas, Conrad Bali for a vibrant tropical stay replete with guest experiences, and Hilton Bali Resort for wholesome adventures on every corner.
Where to stay and what to do in Bali
Stay
A true escape from the bustle starts at Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts. This luxury clifftop retreat perched at the island’s southernmost tip offers 72 one- to three-bedroom villas with spectacular views of Melasti Beach. After a special welcome blessing, you’re whisked away by buggy to your personal paradise: spacious villas with a private infinity pool, whirlpool, and gazebo. Make sure to tap on your personal butler to help curate activities for you within the hotel’s lobby lounge, pool bar, restaurants, and luxurious spa. If you feel the need to venture out, they can also help to arrange local tours and experiences.
For a lively tropical stay in Nusa Dua with luxe trimmings, head to Conrad Bali. This sprawling property’s rooms and suites are hugged by lush gardens, meandering pool lagoons, and 350 metres of beach. Dive right into the pool from your lagoon access room or enjoy breathtaking views from the ocean view suite. Both the young and young at heart can choose their adventure with Conrad Bali’s myriad of cultural and wellness activities, or sign up for thrilling water activities off of the semi-private beach. You can always keep your energy up at the resort’s five fabulous dining venues offering Indonesian, Japanese, Western, and more international cuisine.
Hilton Bali Resort is a mecca of fun for the whole family. 420 stylish rooms sit 40 metres above the endless waves of Nusa Dua Beach, with balconies in every room perfect for enjoying the salty breeze. Rise early for an invigorating yoga session by the chapel, then hit the pool for a dizzying ride down the 30-metre slide or a game of water volleyball. Covered tennis courts, a game room, and a spa mean you’ll never get bored. Hilton Bali Resort is just 15 minutes away from Denpasar International Airport too, so it couldn’t be more convenient for a quick weekend getaway.
Do
Appreciate Bali’s deep spirituality at a kecak dance performance. A popular spot to do this is at Uluwatu Temple, but for those staying at Umana Bali, you can book a free 3-minute shuttle ride to Melasti Beach for daily sundown performances. Not far from here is where the resort’s Soar and Savour experience takes off – a scenic helicopter ride that flies you over landmarks like Mount Batur and Ubud’s rice fields.
The exploration of traditional Balinese practices continues at Hilton Bali Resort. Here, you can make canang sari, woven baskets filled with flowers that are offered at Balinese Hindu temples in praise and prayer. The hotel runs a weekly complimentary session that includes a visit to its temple, where you may make the offering and receive a blessing.
Bali’s a favourite for those seeking to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul too. Conrad Bali’s holistic wellness experiences tick all the boxes. Learn an ancient Balinese script called aksara, or get in a good workout at the hotel’s dedicated pickleball courts. Then, centre yourself at a sound healing session with a renowned Indonesian practitioner before getting the best sleep of your life with Jiwa Spa’s SWAY sleep therapy.
Eat and drink
Lobster for breakfast? That’s the high life. Dig into a breakfast of baby lobster, truffle scrambled eggs, mashed avocados, and caviar on sourdough bread at Umana Bali’s Commune. Every morning, this breezy restaurant also comes alive with live noodle stations and a buffet spread heaving with pastries, cereals, kuehs, local honey, and fresh fruits.
For an afternoon pick-me-up, swing by the resort’s Mer Lounge, where you can savour Indonesian single-origin coffee and espresso blends at a tasting session. If you’re in the mood for a tipple, Pad Pool Bar offers an arak flight and refreshing craft cocktails.
Over at Conrad Bali, dig into contemporary Japanese cuisine at Rin. Draw up a poolside seat for vibrantly presented sushi and sashimi platters. Don’t miss out on its signature shabu shabu for a well-rounded meal of thinly sliced meats, fresh vegetables, and mushrooms. The hot stone is a no-brainer for meat lovers—sear tender beef sirloins and ribeyes and enjoy with a variety of dips.
Don’t leave Bali without enjoying a stunning sunset. Take it in at The Shore at Hilton Bali Resort, a chic beachfront venue that turns out refined fine dining dishes inspired by the Indian Ocean. Check on the day’s selection of fresh-caught or dry-aged fish, then enjoy sundown acoustic sets with a glass or two from The Shore’s selection of beers and organic wines.
Ready to start your perfect weekend in Bali? Book your stay at Umana Bali, Conrad Bali, and Hilton Bali Resort now.