The 12 Best Luxury Resorts in Bali

Bali, Indonesia is a tropical island paradise that doesn’t just woo you; it flat out steals your heart.

When I think of Bali, what springs to mind are the mesmerizing beaches, neon landscapes that make your jaw drop, and a cultural heritage that’s nothing short of spellbinding.

But you might not know that Bali’s got some pretty sweet digs too! And if you’re planning a Bali vacation right now, well, we think you’re in for a treat.

In this carefully crafted guide to the best resorts in Bali, Lori and I share our top recommendations for the most spectacular 5-star and 4-star resorts on offer in 2024.

The Best Resorts in Bali, Indonesia

Whether you’re craving the inland vibes of Ubud, the beachy bliss of Seminyak, the atmospheric charm of Jimbaran Bay, or something entirely different, we’ve got you covered.

So sit back, relax, and let the wonderful vibes of Bali wash over you as we explore the best luxury hotels in Bali for this year and beyond.

Why Buahan is Our #1 Pick

First up, let us introduce you to the mesmerizing Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, sitting proudly at numero uno on our list of Bali’s finest resorts.

Located in the heart of Bali’s lush mountains, this adults-only 5-star haven is your ticket to a Bali getaway dripping with peace and serenity. It’s like a dreamscape of rice paddies and hills enveloping you in solitude.

What catches the eye immediately is the resort’s bold hillside design—a modern Balinese architecture spectacle that seems to merge with the landscape. Each villa, or Balé, comes with its own private pool, an outdoor shower, and views that can make your heart skip a beat.

Whether you’re on the hunt for a romantic rendezvous or a chill escape away from the tourist buzz, we think Buahan takes the cake among Bali luxury resorts.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.8 • Hotels: 10 • Booking: 9.7
• 5-Star hotel rating
• Skift IDEA Awards: 2023 Industry Innovators – Hotels
• EDGE Green Certification

Highlights

• Our Top Pick among the best resorts in Bali
• Adults-Only property
• Modern Balinese hillside design
• Private Villas with pool & views
• Located in Payangan, 2 hours from Ngurah Rai Int’l Airport (DPS)

Hot Tip

Schedule a sunrise yoga session by the river. The serenity of Sayan’s surroundings combined with the expert guidance at daybreak is a transformative experience.

What’s Special About Four Seasons Bali at Sayan

Now, brace yourselves for the majesty that is the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan—a heavyweight in the Bali luxury scene, delivering an experience that’s head and shoulders above the competition.

Tucked in the bosom of lush greenery and rice paddies, this five-star oasis is a masterclass in blending modern swank with Mother Nature’s finest. The Ayung River and those rice terraces? They’re not just views; they’re your personal “forest symphony” for the duration of your stay.

The suites and villas are ultra-luxe with modern design touches and traditional Balinese flair. Comfort and privacy reign supreme with all the snazzy amenities you’d expect from a Four Seasons.

But wait, there’s more! Four Seasons at Sayan doesn’t just sit pretty; it throws experiences at you like confetti. Yoga, cooking classes, cultural tours—consider your Bali immersion sorted. And when hunger strikes, hit up their farm-to-table restaurant, sourcing goodies straight from their garden.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.7 • Hotels: 9.2 • Booking: 9.2
• 5-Star hotel rating
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Located in Ubud, 75 minutes from Ngurah Rai Int’l Airport (DPS)
• Seamless integration with nature
• Modern Balinese suites & villas
• Locally-sourced farm-to-table restaurant

Hot Tip

Take advantage of the resort’s wellness offerings. The Sacred River Spa is a haven for rejuvenation, offering holistic treatments inspired by local traditions. It’s a perfect way to recharge after exploring the vibrant streets of Ubud nearby.

What’s Special About The St. Regis Bali

The St. Regis Bali in Nusa Dua isn’t just one of the best resorts in Bali—it’s an experience that aims to impress, with ocean views that’ll make your jaw hit the sand, and an amenity game that’s nothing short of world class.

There’s, of course, the world-class spa that’s your own personal journey to nirvana, a fitness center that’s more like a fitness kingdom, and dining options that redefine gourmet. Oh, and did we mention the private beach club? Yeah, they’ve got that too.

Now, let’s talk rooms—spacious digs with your very own private balcony or terrace. It’s like having your personal slice of Bali paradise.

And get this—it’s one of the closest five-star resorts on our list to Ngurah Rai International Airport. Less time in transit, more time soaking up the goodness.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.8 • Hotels: 9.6 • Booking: 9.5
• 5-Star hotel rating
• EarthCheck Certified Gold
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Located in Nusa Dun, just 20 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport
• Family-Friendly
• Beach resort with private beach club
• Spacious rooms with private balcony or terrace

Hot Tip

We book direct at Marriott.com so we can use or collect Bonvoy points for our stay. This also allows us to take advantage of their current deals and promotions.

What’s Special About The Viceroy Bali

Next up for you, we’ve got the Viceroy Bali—an award-gobbling sanctuary tucked into the green hills of Bali, right at the beating heart of luxury resorts in Bali.

What makes this place absolutely fantastic? Privacy and exclusivity cranked up to eleven. Every villa here is like having your own secret hideaway, complete with a private infinity pool that’s practically a front-row seat to tropical paradise.

But the Viceroy Bali is so much more than just a pretty face. This place has true five-star swagger to go along with it—plus a spa that’ll pamper you like royalty, superb fine dining, and a fully-equipped fitness center.

But wait, there’s more! The Viceroy Bali isn’t just about the usual resort stuff. Ever fancied a cooking class with the chef? Or how about a helicopter tour of the entire island? Private yoga sessions? Yeah, they got that covered too.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.7 • Hotels: 9.6 • Booking: 9.5
• 5-Star hotel rating
• World Leisure Awards: 2023 Best Leisure Resort
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Located in Ubud, 55 min. from Ngurah Rai Airport
• Private villas with infinity pool
• Private Villas with pool & views
• Chef-led cooking classes
• Helicopter tours

What’s Special About The Seminyak

The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa has more than earned its stripes as one of the best resorts in Bali, and it’s not just for show. This isn’t merely a beach-adjacent spot; it’s practically lounging on the sands, serving you ocean views that could charm Poseidon himself.

Rooms and suites? Spacious enough to do a cartwheel. Amenities? Top-notch, because why settle for anything less? And the service? It’s like having your own team of Bali whisperers.

Dining? Yep, they’ve got that figured out too. On-site restaurants dishing out delectable cuisine from Bali and around the world.

Whether you’re in the mood to chill or ready to conquer Bali’s wonders, The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa isn’t just a hotel; it’s a Bali adventure waiting to unfold.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.7 • Hotels: 9.2 • Booking: 9.1
• 5-Star hotel rating
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Located in Seminyak, 30 min. from Ngurah Rai Airport
• Beachfront resort

What’s Special About Tejaprana Bisma

Now it’s time to venture back into the highlands of Ubud and the heart of central Bali—the domain of the exceptional Tejaprana Bisma.

Balinese tradition meets modern comfort in a seamless dance, surrounded by lush greenery and rice paddies. Private pool villas set the stage for a romantic escapade for couples, while family pool villas offer an ideal choice for those traveling with kids.

The resort’s infinity pool flaunts views that could steal your breath. And the spa? It’s a sanctuary for anyone looking to hit pause and unwind. And let’s not forget the essential: food. The on-site restaurant whips up Indonesian and international cuisine using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Tejaprana Bisma isn’t just a resort; it’s a well-curated package of indulgence, making it truly one of the best resorts in Bali.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.8 • Hotels: 9.8 • Booking: 9.4
• 4-Star hotel rating
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Traditional Balinese style private pool & family pool villas
• Family-Friendly
• Fresh, locally-sourced cuisine
• Located in Ubud, 90 min. from Ngurah Rai Airport

What’s Special About Adiwana Jembawan

Looking for an experience that embraces your entire being with a blend of service, comfort, and relaxation? Then Adiwana Resort Jembawan should be near the top of your Bali luxury resorts shortlist.

From the get-go, their team of warm and attentive staff are committed to making your stay wonderful. But the real superstar here might just be the unreal location—Dreamy tropical forest, picture-postcard rice paddies, and cascading waterfalls. It’s one heck of a backyard!

The architecture of the resort is nothing short of awe-inspiring, a testament to human creativity in harmony with nature. Rooms and suites are a blend of elegance and tradition, like a well-mixed cocktail.

And when the stomach growls, the on-site restaurant takes center stage—delicious and healthy cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients to create a menu that is both nourishing and bursting with flavor.

In a nutshell, Adiwana Jembawan is a portal to a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo retreat in paradise. It’s the kind of place that makes you question leaving. And that’s saying something.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.8 • Hotels: 9.2 • Booking: 9.0
• 4-Star hotel rating
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Forested setting with rice paddies & waterfalls
• Private Villas with pool & views
• Artful, nature-focused design
• Located in Ubud, 90 min. from Ngurah Rai Airport

What’s Special About Four Seasons at Jimbaran Bay

Alright, let’s shift gears and head back to the coast! Located on a long sandy crescent facing the sea, Four Seasons Resort at Jimbaran Bay is an innovative opportunity to experience Balinese culture through relaxation, food, entertainment, and play.

Here, your digs are modeled after a well-appointed Balinese home—each villa decked out with local artwork, textiles, and furniture. And the indoor and outdoor living? Seamless. Plus, there’s a private plunge pool staring right at the ocean.

And when you’re ready to emerge from your personal sanctuary, they’ve got exclusive water activities and surf lessons calling your name. If that’s not your jam, dive into artist workshops, temple tours, or rub shoulders with the vibrant fishing community.

The Four Seasons’ outstanding Healing Village Spa offers an impressive range of traditional and modern therapies and treatments. And if you’re into mastering the culinary arts, there’s an onsite cooking academy waiting to make you a kitchen ninja.

Hungry? The resort boasts a fresh international buffet with live action cooking, or you can discover new flavors at one of several excellent nearby dining venues.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.7 • Hotels: 9.4 • Booking: 9.2
• 5-Star hotel rating
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Located in Jimbaran, just 15 min. from Ngurah Rai Airport
• Indoor/outdoor Balinese style villas with plunge pool
• Exclusive water activities, surf lessons, community tours, and more
• fresh buffet with live action cooking

What’s Special About The Oberoi Bali

Ready for Indian Ocean views, a tropical island setting, and a vibe that screams opulence? The Oberoi Beach Resort Bali is a feast for the senses waiting to woo you on the pristine shores of Seminyak Beach.

From the moment you waltz in, the resort’s renowned hospitality and polished service set the tone for an unforgettable stay.

Beautifully appointed rooms and suites, luxurious spa, surfing, swimming, yoga, meditation—you name it, they got it.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.7 • Hotels: 9.6 • Booking: 9.5
• 5-Star hotel rating
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Located in Seminyak, just 20 min. from Ngurahh Rai Airport
• Access to wonderful Seminyak Beach
• Lots of activities like surfing, yoga, meditation, and more

Hot Tip

We book direct at Oberoi Hotels for access to current promotions and deals.

What’s Special About Samsara Ubud

For those who want Bali to speak to their soul, Samsara Ubud offers a luxurious 5-star boutique rainforest sanctuary experience in the heart of Ubud.

Inspired by Balinese culture, the entire resort is a piece of art. Rooms and villas are spacious havens with views that make your jaw drop—all just a stone’s throw away from the traditional village of Kelusa.

Treat yourself to relaxing deep-tissue massages, facials, or body scrubs. Or savor a scrumptious meal at The Kelusa, which offers both local and international cuisine.

Take advantage of the stunning infinity pool and a range of outdoor activities such as trekking and cycling.

The resort has also demonstrated a dedication to sustainability in its use of eco-friendly materials, renewable energy sources, and the implementation of waste reduction and recycling programs.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice
• Google: 4.6 • Hotels: 9.6 • Booking: 9.2
• 5-Star hotel rating
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Luxury hillside resort with authenticity
• Strong commitment to sustainability

What’s Special About Padma Legian

Spread over 6.8 hectares of beautifully manicured beachfront property, Padma Resort Legian offers a five-star “art sanctuary” stay quite unlike any other in Bali.

Considered one of the best resorts in Bali for its idyllic location, renowned hospitality, and unique stylish and artsy vibe, Padma Resort Legian is a stand-out destination in vibrant and stunning Legian.

Savor legendary Legian sunsets from the award-winning beach club, or kick back and relax in the spacious and stylish Balinese-inspired rooms and suites.

Immerse yourself in the art and culture of the area at the nearby Legian Street traditional art and fashion market.

And for those wanting to arrive in paradise fast, Padma Resort Legian might just have the shortest airport transfer time of any resort on our list.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best
• Google: 4.7 • Hotels: 9.6 • Booking: 9.2
• 5-Star hotel rating
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Located in Legian, just 12 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport
• Artsy and stylish design
• Balinese-inspired rooms & suites
• Close to local shopping

What’s Special About The Kayon

Last, but certainly not least on our list of the very best resorts in Bali, The Kayon Resort in Ubud stands in a class of its own, boasting one of the most unique properties we’ve featured in this guide.

Cascading over a cliff enveloped by dense rainforest, neon-green rice paddies, and spectacular waterfalls, every meter of the Kayon evokes a fairytale setting.

On top of all that, you have five-star service and amenities, spacious and comfortable accommodation with balconies and stunning views, and a couple of excellent onsite dining options.

Ratings & Awards

• TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 • 2023 Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best
• Google: 4.8 • Hotels: 9.8 • Booking: 9.2
• 5-Star hotel rating
• CHSE Certified

Highlights

• Adults-Only (Ages 15+)
• Unique tiered hillside design
• Surrounded by rice paddies, rainforest, and waterfalls
• Located in Ubud, 55 min. from Ngurah Rai Airport

When to Visit: Tips on the Best Time for Vacations in Bali

Personally, we think any time is a great time to visit Bali! With that said, the best time to visit will ultimately depend on you and what you’re looking for.

The Dry Season in Bali typically runs from April to September and is widely considered to be the best time to visit Bali for most people. The weather is, well, dry and clear, and the rainfall is minimal, making this an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach vacations. The busiest months in Bali tend to be June, July, and August.

Alternatively, the Wet Season (October to March) brings more humidity and, you guessed it, more rain—particularly from December to February. The upside, of course is that the landscape is as lush and green as it gets, and hotel rates are the lowest of the year.

And then there’s Shoulder Season, which tends to be our favorite time to travel in Southeast Asia. In Bali, this usually lands somewhere around April and then again in October. We like shoulder season because you’ll likely still have pretty darn good weather, but without the big crowds and expensive pricing of high season.

Bali Luxury Resorts FAQs

Final Thoughts

Lori and I love putting together these carefully researched bucket list guides to the very best stays across the world. And this is particularly the case when we get to cover destinations in Southeast Asia—a region that we lived in full-time for four wonderful years and traveled through extensively.

Whether you’re planning your dream honeymoon surrounded by rainforest and rice paddies, or the ultimate family beach break offering something for everyone, we’re sure you’ll find it on our list, above.

More Southeast Asia Getaways

Want more of the best hotels in Southeast to inspire your travels? Then don’t miss our these articles:

• 9 Very Best Luxury Hotels in Langkawi, Malaysia
• 18 Tropical Island Resorts for Your Bucket List
• The 11 Best Hotels in Penang, Malaysia

FEATURED IMAGE CREDIT: SAMSARA UBUD