Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak

Daily sunset beachside lounge

"Pretty slick spot, you can actually hear the waves crashing from here," said another guest who was clearly bought over by the sights and sounds of SugarSand. We won't disagree. This fun and upbeat beachside bar is a haven for anyone who is up for a splashing good time. The draw is definitely dining poolside where you can gallivant on daybeds overlooking the sparkling ocean backed by million-dollar sunsets. But you won't have to break the bank to keep your spirits high. Every day from 5pm to 7pm – how convenient as it falls during sunset – happy hour is on for alcoholic cocktails and wines accompanied by slick groovy tunes by the DJ on deck.

Arak-centric cocktail bar under a tree

This breezy alfresco cocktail bar isn't quite like any other. For one, it is perched under a majestic sacred Puletree. It boasts an original menu highlighting modern cocktails that use the traditional Balinese liquor, Arak. We also especially enjoy the inimitable tranquillity surrounded by the lush grounds under the moonlight. On nights where there isn't live entertainment from live band performances to traditional dances, it makes for a romantic spot for lovebirds.

TRY the refreshingly simple Arak highball to start. The elegant hint of jasmine and oak sets it apart from the classic. For something punchier, go with the Sandikala. Barrel-aged arak mixed with a homemade honey ginger reduction and lifted with fresh lime juice result in a bright and spicy perk-me-up. Another barrel-aged arak feature comes in the form of a silky Tambring No.2. This all-day thirst quencher is spiked with fragrant coconut liquer, lively tamarind and turmeric reduction, spices and lemon.

Lively breakfast cafe that turns into a modern Balinese restaurant by evening 

This casual all-day concept serves up a hearty international breakfast buffet spread in the morning with a la minute stations: egg stations, stir-fried noodle stations, dim sum stations and more. It is nothing short of a lively and convivial affair while you sip on a cup of strong Balinese brew to kickstart your day. But come sundown, the ambience does a 180 along when the fairylights go up. Now, romance is in the air. The dinner menu is inspired by the Balinese street food scene and adds a refined touch with seasonal flavours to treat.

TRY Definitely have the calamari to start. Tossed in an addictive salted egg, curry leaf and chilli mix alongside a moreish garlic aioli dip, the crispy slivers of squid are literally to die for. For mains, lamb lovers can sink their teeth into the masaman lamb shank that comes with a rich peanut gravy and creamy mashed potatoes. The rendang sapi is also another heavy-hitter where fork-tender Wagyu beef shin is simmered in a flavourful Sumatran coconut curry sauce with hints of green chilli.

Laidback afternoon tea spot

The inviting aroma of freshly roasted coffee permeates the surrounding grounds of Pottery Cafe. Adjacent to Makase, the coffee spot serves up a fine curation of local speciality coffee and tea alongside artisanal pastries. But if you're looking for a quaint spot for a mid-day tete-a-tete with loved ones, the afternoon tea session is your best bet. For fans of the bean, there is also a weekly coffee roasting and tasting session showcasing each unique bean.