The 15 Finest Luxury Resorts in Bali and the Indonesian Islands

While Indonesia—particularly Bali—is celebrated for its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant cultural heritage, this archipelago of over 17,000 islands is also famous for its exceptional resorts. The finest of these are defined by their thoughtful architecture, deep connection to nature, and the warm, genuine hospitality of their staff.

As part of Dinogo’s Hotels We Love series, we proudly present 15 standout resorts, listed in no specific order, recognized for their design, culinary experiences, sustainability efforts, and wellness amenities—all nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of sandy shores and tropical forests that make this region unique.

1. Desa Potato Head

Nestled in the vibrant Petitenget neighborhood of bustling Seminyak on Bali's western coast, the eco-conscious Desa Potato Head comprises two hotels and several restaurants that evolved from a now-famous beach club established in 2010. The resort embraces the philosophy of "good times, do good," aiming to leverage tourism for community and environmental enhancement—all while ensuring travelers have a blast. Guests can participate in Waste Lab workshops, creating bracelets from recycled plastic beads or indigo-dyed tote bags from old bedding.

The resort features the Potato Head Suites, a collection of 58 accommodations designed by Indonesian architect Andra Matin, built with 1.8 million hand-pressed terra-cotta bricks sourced from a nearby village. Each suite is adorned with mid-century-inspired furnishings crafted in Indonesia and handwoven textiles from local artisans. The Potato Head Studios, a 168-room oceanfront building designed by Rem Koolhaas’ OMA and opened in 2021, showcases contemporary furniture made from recycled materials. Its distinctive pink facade is derived from powdered salvaged bricks.

Desa Potato Head boasts six dining options, including the rooftop Sunset Park and the seafood eatery Ijen, where tables are crafted from the Waste Lab’s terrazzo-like plastic panels. Ijen utilizes every part of the line-caught fish it serves, including barramundi and mahi-mahi sourced from Indonesian waters. Fish bones are transformed into bouillon, while scales are dehydrated, fried, and blended into togarashi. Oyster shells are crushed and mixed with Styrofoam and limestone powder to create bubblegum-colored amenities for the studios. Studios start at $200/night; Suites begin at $392/night

2. Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape

Located in the lush jungle just 40 minutes by car north of Ubud, Buahan has redefined the luxury hotel experience by eliminating walls. In this serene, remote part of Bali, situated at 2,000 feet above sea level, guests can enjoy cooler temperatures thanks to refreshing breezes. The adults-only resort features a low-impact, biophilic design with winding pathways made from local stone, spreading across 12 acres of natural beauty. From the main cantilevered pool, visitors can admire seven mountain peaks on a clear day.

Guests can choose to stay in one of the 16 open-air bales, or villas, each surrounded by flowing curtains (with ample space between bales for privacy). Each room includes a private infinity pool and a hammered-copper bathtub. The interior design incorporates wood reclaimed from boat jetties in Kalimantan, a region on the nearby island of Borneo. Guests can spend their days exploring the property's waterfall, firefly nursery, garden, and open-air spa; they also have opportunities to partake in moon yoga, learn how to create jamu (a traditional ginger and turmeric drink), and bike along jungle trails and through local villages.

At the Botanist Bar and the eco-friendly Open Kitchen restaurant, where guests enjoy all their meals, most ingredients are sourced from local farmers and small businesses within a 43-mile radius. Approximately 70% of the menu is plant-based, featuring an array of gut-friendly fermented dishes that make use of what would otherwise be kitchen waste. Starting at $1,242

3. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

Located beside the sacred Ayung River—the longest river in Bali—approximately 15 minutes by car from Ubud, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan is a lush retreat enveloped by towering palms and ferns. Designed by architect John Heah, the resort comprises 42 teakwood pool villas and 18 suites, many offering stunning views of the river and surrounding rice terraces. For the design and decor, Heah predominantly utilized local materials, including shells, coconuts, and exquisite ikat fabrics.

The resort provides numerous opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the local culture. Indonesian cooking classes are held in the gently curving bamboo Sokasi structure, while the spa features ancient wellness rituals. Guests can also partake in unique experiences like the tranquil Sacred Nap meditation led by a former Buddhist nun. The resort's Jati Bar regularly hosts Balinese music and dance performances, and guests can enjoy regional cuisine at the palm-lined Ayung Terrace. For those arriving from the Four Seasons’ sister resort in Jimbaran Bay, a thrilling whitewater raft ride is available. Starting at $773

4. Uluwatu Surf Villas

For surfers venturing to Bali’s southwestern tip, the independently owned Uluwatu Surf Villas is a dream destination, featuring its own private staircase leading down a cliff to some of the world’s most legendary waves. However, with 24 beautifully designed tropical modern villas and residences—each uniquely crafted from responsibly sourced timber and most equipped with private pools—it’s also an enchanting getaway for those whose vacations don’t revolve around surfing (multigenerational travelers will find various accommodation options, ranging from one to five bedrooms).

At this clifftop resort, the atmosphere is intentionally relaxed—except for the two-tone skate park, where skaters of all ages zoom around the bowl, honing their skills. A wonderful way to kick off your day is at the on-site Morning Light Yoga Studio, a charming open-air thatched-roof shala nestled between the lush jungle and the ocean, where morning sessions begin daily at 7:30.

The main pool is a breathtaking infinity-edge oasis that seamlessly merges with the ocean and horizon, surrounded by wooden cabanas. Nearby, a small gallery displays local artwork and occasionally hosts wheel-throwing pottery classes or creative workshops. At Mana Restaurant, guests can savor an Indonesian-inspired menu while enjoying panoramic ocean views, featuring dishes like betel leaves with prawn and snake-fruit lawar and pepes ikan (market fish cooked in banana leaf). Starting at $220

5. Bulgari Resort Bali

The second establishment launched by the renowned jewelry and fashion house in 2006, Bulgari Resort Bali is an Italian architectural masterpiece perched 525 feet above sea level on the cliffs of Uluwatu. While the hotel's refined atmosphere maintains the brand's luxurious essence, its 58 pool villas showcase hand-carved volcanic rock, Javanese mahogany, antique carvings, and locally sourced fabrics that highlight the region's rich heritage.

A blend of Asian and European influences is a key theme here: One dining option, Sangkar, specializes in traditional Indonesian cuisine, while the exclusive, dinner-only Il Ristorante – Luca Fantin offers a prix fixe experience featuring coastal Italian dishes. At the highest point of the resort, a functioning temple serves as a site for daily rituals, and guests are invited to participate in blessing ceremonies. Additional complimentary perks include flexible check-in and check-out, an on-call private yoga instructor, village walks, and butler service.

The exclusive elevator that dramatically descends the cliff to Bulgari’s tranquil beach club is reserved solely for guests, as are the lunches at La Spiaggia, which celebrates seafood while hugging the cliffside. At the Bulgari Bar, guests can enjoy sunset hour with Italian canapés paired with views of the stunning sapphire Indian Ocean. A visit to the spa is a must, offering indulgent treatments inspired by the rituals of Balinese royalty. Starting at $1,300

6. Capella Ubud

If every hotel on Bali were developed with the same mindfulness as Capella Ubud, we wouldn’t need to worry as much about the impact of overtourism on the island. This rainforest sanctuary, crafted by Bangkok-based architect Bill Bensley, leaves a minimal ecological footprint. Situated 4.5 miles from the increasingly crowded Ubud village, Capella is nestled along a serene riverbank in the traditional rice-farming community of Keliki.

No trees were harmed in the construction of the 23 tented accommodations, which feature teak flooring that invites the sounds of the lush jungle. Doors and headboards are intricately carved by Balinese craftsmen, and the private plunge pools are adorned with natural stone. There’s a vast above-ground saltwater pool known as the Cistern, and a fitness center so beautiful it could be an art installation, complete with elegant draped fabric and striking hand-painted columns. Throughout the hotel, you'll find Indonesian art, including batik textiles and detailed paintings from the nearby Kamasan village.

On the wooden pool deck, the Mortar and Pestle Bar employs its namesake tool with a manual ice crusher to mix Bali-inspired cocktails like Bird Watchers, featuring Opihr Oriental Spiced Gin and lychee. The three-meal-a-day restaurant, Mads Lange, offers dishes that celebrate Indonesia’s rich spice heritage, while Api Jiwa provides an Asian barbecue omakase experience for special occasions. Thoughtful programming connects guests to local villages, arts, and activities (including child-friendly options like planting baby coconut trees in the organic garden), and each evening, guests gather around the Campfire to enjoy s’mores and hot cocoa while watching silent black-and-white films shot in Bali over a century ago. Starting at $910

7. Alila Villas Uluwatu

Alila Villas Uluwatu is a paradise for ocean enthusiasts: Its 65 modern pool villas are perched on limestone cliffs overlooking the legendary waves of southern Bali. Here, you can enjoy a gin cocktail infused with aquamarine seaweed at a bar that extends out over the Indian Ocean. The EarthCheck-certified resort features a stylish design by the Singapore-based architectural firm WOHA, which used exclusively Indonesian materials to lessen its environmental impact. Lava rocks from Mount Batur, Bali's volcano, top flat roofs lined with bamboo to reduce heat absorption and lower electricity consumption, while the expansive 36-acre property has reintroduced native flora like gamal trees, whose roots are utilized in sculpture, aiming for self-sufficiency.

For those interested, there’s a paid Journey to Sustainability experience that offers a tour of the resort’s on-site Sustainability Lab, followed by a sambal-making workshop in the organic garden. The experience concludes with a traditional family-style Indonesian lunch at the Warung, an open-air eatery focused on local cuisine located opposite the Pan-Asian and Mediterranean-influenced Cire restaurant. Guests can also learn how to craft the traditional Balinese Hindu canang sari offerings, try SUP yoga (on a paddleboard) on the expansive infinity pool, or indulge in Balinese massages at the spa. Starting from $1,000

8. Bambu Indah

Meaning “beautiful bamboo,” Bambu Indah is the sustainable passion project of jewelry designers and married duo John and Cynthia Hardy. The Canadian and American expatriates, who have called Bali home for many years, purchased a set of teakwood bridal houses in 2005, relocating them 15 minutes west of Ubud Village, where they meticulously restored and uniquely decorated each for their visiting guests.

Currently, the historic homes perched on Sayan Ridge are encircled by innovative bamboo structures and treehouses designed by two of the couple’s daughters, including Elora Hardy. This picturesque setting features organic dining and lounging areas, a permaculture garden, idyllic swimming holes, and verdant rice paddies. The 11 unique accommodations—filled with vintage decor, Indonesian textiles, and local treasures—truly embrace nature. The resort is brimming with enchanting surprises, such as a boat-shaped treehouse elevated 30 feet in the air and a rope swing that plunges guests into a natural rock pool.

The open-air River Warung serves as a communal space for guests—and day-pass visitors—to enjoy three meals daily made from organically grown and locally sourced ingredients. The newly opened Elevator Sunset Bar in 2023, another collaboration with the couple’s daughters, offers arak-infused cocktails accompanied by stunning views of the river valley. On-demand massages are available, along with early morning walks—more like hikes—through the lush jungle enveloping the resort. Starting from $350

9. Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

If Mandapa, which translates to “temple” in Sanskrit, seems more like a community than a mere hotel, that’s because it truly is. The resort spans 24 lush acres of land that was formerly owned by several neighboring families, who still have access to the property and its on-site temple. This connection allows for the preservation of three acres of rice paddies and a traditional rice barn on stilts, with villagers making daily offerings at the temple, thereby enriching Mandapa’s ties to local culture.

Perched 300 feet above the Ayung River valley, the hotel’s open-air lobby boasts stunning views of 35 hillside suites that overlook the jungle and rice fields, along with 25 villas lining the flowing river. The suites are adorned with traditional Balinese furnishings and artwork, featuring luxurious stand-alone soaking tubs, while the villas, with their high ceilings and vibrant botanical decor, include expansive pools and separate master suites.

Local materials and design elements are prevalent throughout, from the thatched roofs to the fringed umbrellas that provide shade for poolside lounge chairs. The riverside spa is an inviting spot to experience Balinese products through soothing treatments and spiritual sessions with a local healer. Dining options include five venues: the fine-dining restaurant Kubu, a high tea spot, the cocktail and dinner venue Ambar, and Sawah Terrace, which hosts a Royal Brunch on Sundays. Ubud’s center is just a 10-minute drive away, but the guided vintage VW convertible tours available are arguably the most enjoyable way to explore. Starting from $1,250

10. Raffles Bali

Set on 57 acres, Raffles Bali boasts just 32 exclusive villas, each equipped with its own pool, spacious shaded daybeds, yoga mats, and breathtaking ocean views. From the moment you arrive at the elegantly minimalist main building, a sense of tranquility envelops you. This space also houses the Writers Bar, which originated at the resort's legendary sister property in Singapore and is known as the birthplace of the Singapore Sling (Raffles Bali offers a delightful local adaptation of this classic drink).

At the fine-dining venue Rumari, guests enjoy refined and fresh breakfast options, while the dinner menu features innovative takes on traditional Balinese and Indonesian cuisine, such as a dish combining duck egg, coconut, and caviar.

While the resort offers indulgent dining and cocktails, it places a strong emphasis on well-being. Every guest is assigned a Raffles Wellbeing Butler who arranges activities such as sunrise tai chi on the nearly private beach, cleansing Hindu melukat ceremonies at the on-site temple, and reiki or massage sessions with local experts. The atmosphere is undeniably luxurious, yet it remains warm and inviting, thanks to the friendly staff and genuine Balinese hospitality. From $1,096

11. Nirjhara

Named after the Sanskrit term for the rushing waterfall that graces the property, Nirjhara is a serene escape nestled in the jungle, just six miles north of Canggu. Currently, the retreat features 25 suites and villas, including tree houses with rooftop decks, with plans for expansion expected by late 2024. The accommodations showcase wood craftsmanship and are adorned with locally dyed textiles, featuring bowl-like soaking tubs that staff will gladly prepare with jasmine and frangipani flowers for an aromatic bathing experience.

The restaurant Ambu champions the slow food movement with a distinctly Indonesian flair, sourcing 95 percent of its ingredients from trusted local suppliers, including the resort’s own vegetable garden. The infinity edge of the main pool overlooks the waterfall, and complimentary yoga and meditation classes are offered in a bamboo shala.

Thoughtfully designed activities invite guests to venture beyond the serene confines of the resort. Consider surf lessons and sunset horseback rides on nearby Kedungu Beach, waterfall hikes, cycling adventures through rice paddies, traditional ceramics workshops, and visits to temples in the culturally vibrant regency of Tabanan, which also features a lesser-known monkey forest. From $400

12. Cap Karoso

At the core of Cap Karoso is a unique blend of handcrafted Sumbanese and French design, infused with elements of modernism and brutalism. This 15-acre resort, paired with a 7.5-acre organic farm, debuted this March in Kodi, located at Sumba’s far western tip. The open-air lobby features a striking wall crafted by Sumba-born ikat artist Kornelis Ndapakamang, made from panels wrapped in rich red and brown threads—an abstract tribute to the island’s renowned textiles—while travertine desks echo the traditional megalithic tombs of the area. The property offers 47 studios and suites, along with 20 standalone villas, all situated on a gentle slope leading to a long beach, where locals gather at low tide to enjoy the tidal pools and exposed reefs for play and fishing.

Sunlit suites celebrate local Marapu culture, featuring outdoor bathrooms adorned with sculptures crafted by artisans from the nearby Buku Bani village. These spaces are complemented by vintage French and English literature, custom ceramics, and woven paper art commissioned from French-Indonesian artist Ines Katamso. While the rooms are air-conditioned, they include wooden louvers to invite in natural breezes, and grass-covered roofs help regulate the temperature inside the stone-clad interiors. Solar energy is harnessed to heat the water, and the resort plans to build a large solar park to provide half of its power needs. Water is drawn from deep wells and double-filtered, allowing Cap Karoso to bottle it for drinking.

At the Beach Club, bartenders trained by renowned consultant Nico de Soto mix intricate cocktails featuring ingredients like jackfruit, sandalwood, and smoked pomelo. The exclusive Julang restaurant offers prix fixe dinners prepared by guest chefs, while Apicine serves Indo-Basque tapas by the pool every evening. The thatched-roof Malala Spa provides treatments inspired by healing plants using sublime products. Guests can explore nearby traditional villages, secluded beaches, surf spots, and the crystalline saltwater lagoon of Danau Weekuri by car or e-bike. From $300

13. Amanjiwo

For those fascinated by culture and history, as well as architecture and design enthusiasts, Amanjiwo deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. Crafted by the renowned architect Ed Tuttle, Amanjiwo is just moments away from—and visible from—the world’s largest Buddhist temple, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Borobudur, which stands alongside Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Bagan in Myanmar as one of the most awe-inspiring ancient ruins.

The resort’s design reflects the grandeur of these monumental ancient sites, featuring 33 suites arranged in a crescent shape around a bell-shaped rotunda and a stunning 131-foot emerald-green pool. Luxurious beds rest on regal pillared terrazzo platforms, and elegant bathtubs are tucked away in the gardens; select suites boast private swimming pools and views of the steaming volcanoes and Borobudur, which can be explored privately with the resident anthropologist Patrick Vanhoebrouck.

Guests can partake in trekking adventures, temple visits, antique shopping excursions, and, in true Aman style, indulge in sophisticated spa and wellness rituals inspired by ancient Javanese traditions. To complement these experiences, Amanjiwo offers three dining options, including the Pool Club and the Restaurant & Bar, where live musicians often perform local tunes while guests savor Indonesian and international dishes, featuring a rotating traditional prix fixe makan malam (dinner at night). From $1,000

14. Bawah Reserve

Bawah Reserve is an upscale resort and conservation zone sprawled across six private islands in Indonesia's Anambas archipelago. This cluster of islands is a designated marine sanctuary housing 36 tented suites, bungalows, lodge rooms, and villas—all without TVs. One of the most enticing aspects of Bawah Reserve is its remoteness; access is exclusively by seaplane, with the nearest inhabited island more than two hours away by boat.

The islands exude a surreal castaway vibe: immaculate white-sand beaches, gently swaying palm trees, and wooden docks extending into the shimmering waves. Several secluded, bamboo-framed Beach Suites villas offer semi-private sandy stretches; all feature expansive shaded balconies, indoor and outdoor showers, and retractable canopies that allow the main bedroom to open to the sky. The Overwater Bungalows surpass even these, boasting the island’s finest sunset views and direct lagoon access from private covered verandas.

At Aura Spa, all massages and facials are part of a lavish daily experience at this all-inclusive resort. The cuisine—featuring eggs drenched in sambal, fried noodles nasi goreng, and intricately spiced rendang—honors Bawah’s unique setting, with a flourishing garden plot increasingly supplying fresh produce. Active guests can enjoy a variety of on-site activities, including challenging hikes, yoga and Pilates sessions, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and Indonesian dance lessons. From $1,900/night, all-inclusive

15. Nihi Sumba

Originally a small surf lodge beside pristine waves, Nihi Sumba has evolved into a sprawling resort covering 667 acres in southwest Sumba. The dedicated team at Nihi Sumba now includes over 430 staff members, with more than 90 percent being local Sumbanese. Each of the 28 spacious indoor-outdoor villas features a personal butler and showcases unique designs, including the shapes of private swimming pools, varying color palettes (ocean blues in one, rainforest greens in another), and handcrafted decor sourced from the island.

Every afternoon, handlers at the resort’s stable open the gates, allowing the 26 resident horses to enjoy their midday romp down to the beach. The Nio Beach Club, equipped with a wood-fired oven and infinity pool, serves as an ideal spot for lunch, where guests can watch the horses play on the sand or swim alongside them. For breakfast and dinner, guests gather at Ombak, the sand-floored restaurant that was renovated this year; they enjoy sunset drinks and canapés at the Boathouse Bar, where surfers often showcase their skills on the famous Occy’s Left wave, which is limited to 10 slots daily.

The resort organizes a weekly barbecue dinner that features a short film highlighting the impactful medical, educational, and clean-water initiatives led by the resort’s NGO partner, Sumba Foundation. Guests can also enjoy popular activities like exploring local markets, learning ikat weaving, visiting the resort’s permaculture farm, paddleboarding on the river, and indulging in the exclusive Spa SDinogoi, which offers unlimited, all-natural spa treatments with ocean views. From $1,231/night, full board (excluding alcohol)

Additional contributions by Carey Jones, Sunshine Flint, and Serena Renner