The 9 best luxury surf resorts in Bali – 2023 Guide

Bali, the ‘Island of Gods’, beckons travellers with its enchanting allure of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and some of the most renowned surf spots on the globe. Yet, in this tropical paradise lies an elite league of establishments that redefine opulence, offering experiences that transcend the ordinary. 

These aren’t just accommodations; they’re immersive adventures waiting to be explored. In our quest to identify the 9 best luxury surf resorts in Bali, we’ve journeyed across its breathtaking coasts and hidden treasures to handpick nine extraordinary havens.

Our exploration brought us to:

  1. Uluwatu Surf Villas
  2. Hideaway Villas Uluwatu
  3. COMO Uma Canggu
  4. Suarga Padang Padang
  5. Hotel Komune
  6. Anantara Uluwatu
  7. Six Senses Uluwatu
  8. Alila Villas Uluwatu
  9. Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay

From the cliff-hanging retreats of Uluwatu to Canggu’s laid-back charms, each of these resorts embodies the epitome of luxury, catering to both adrenaline-seeking surfers and those in pursuit of serene opulence. So, if you’re planning a Bali getaway this year, allow our curated list to guide you to the pinnacle of indulgence and surf extravagance!

Uluwatu Surf Villas: The Ultimate Cliffside Experience

Perched atop majestic cliffs, the Uluwatu Surf Villas offer a breathtaking vantage point over Bali’s azure waves. With 17 distinct cliff-front accommodations, visitors are privy to unparalleled ocean vistas right from their bed. For the avid surfer, the unique positioning of these villas acts as a natural barometer, letting you gauge the tides and swell for that perfect surfing moment. And once you discern the rhythm of the waves, a staircase from the villa will lead you straight to the Uluwatu surf breaks.

However, the allure of this place isn’t limited to surfing alone. A stone’s throw away is the iconic Uluwatu Temple, a slice of Balinese culture waiting to be explored. The serene ambiance of the temple stands in harmonious contrast to the dynamic spirit of the waves.

Yet, for those looking for holistic wellness, the Morning Light yoga studio within the resort beckons. Picture this: meditative yoga at the precipice of the cliff, the setting sun painting the horizon, and the gentle sounds of the ocean as your backdrop.

Apart from these experiences, the resort boasts of an awe-inspiring infinity pool. And for those craving more exclusivity, select villas come equipped with private pools. For the foodies, the in-house Mana restaurant offers a culinary voyage, while the surrounding locale brims with diverse dining choices.

Remember, the enchantment of Uluwatu Surf Villas is no secret. With limited villas and a swelling popularity, it’s prudent to book in advance. Dive into the luxury and serenity of Bali, only at the Uluwatu Surf Villas.

Hideaway Villas, Uluwatu: Your Panoramic Oasis

Nestled in a location of unparalleled splendour, Hideaway Villas in Uluwatu is the epitome of scenic luxury. While it’s not directly by the shoreline, it compensates with a mesmerising panorama of the vast Indian Ocean. And for the beach aficionados, the coastal treasures are but a brief journey away, ensuring you’re never too far from the ocean’s embrace.

Within a quarter of an hour, find yourself at the renowned Uluwatu beach, where surfers ride the waves to the rhythm of nature’s consistent barrels. For the more audacious surfers, Padang Padang awaits with its challenging tides. And let’s not forget Sulban, ever-reliable with its bounteous swell and inviting barrels.

Accommodation-wise, Hideaway Villas serves up a delightful assortment of one and two-bedroom villas. Many of these come adorned with their own private pools, promising intimate leisure moments. And for those who believe in pampering themselves, the on-site spa is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation.

When it comes to dining, the resort doesn’t disappoint. With both alfresco and indoor eateries, indulge in a culinary journey that spans the globe, tantalising your taste buds every step of the way. And for days when you’re in the mood for a change of scene, the vibrant dining options of Uluwatu are just a short cab ride away. Dive into the splendour of Hideaway Villas, where luxury meets breathtaking views.

COMO Uma Canggu: Beachside Elegance Meets Surf Perfection

Nestled comfortably between the sophisticated charm of Seminyak and the iconic allure of Tanah Lot, Canggu is an oasis of laid-back vibes, a favoured haunt for family surf holidays, digital nomads, and seasoned surfers seeking extended tranquil stays. 

The COMO Uma Canggu Resort magnificently captures this essence with its chic minimalist design, enticing beach club bars, warm glow of firepits, and the therapeutic embrace of Shambala spa treatments. While parents find their serene Bali retreat, young ones are treated to a world of wonder at the incredible kids club, and surf enthusiasts can dive into a bespoke dream programme by Tropicsurf.

When it comes to surfing, the resort’s location is nothing short of a dream. Just a stone’s throw to the right, at a mere 100m, is Echo Beach, boasting some of Bali’s most thrilling tubes on the west coast, challenging even the most seasoned of surfers. 

Meanwhile, a short 50m stroll to the left introduces you to the gentle embrace of Old Man’s waves, an ideal spot for beginners. Indeed, Canggu’s reputation as one of the prime destinations for learning to surf in Bali is solidified by such jewels in its crown. Dive into COMO Uma Canggu, where sophistication meets surf enthusiast’s paradise.

Suarga Padang Padang: Sustainable Elegance Meets Surf Heaven

Set in the heart of the Bukit Peninsular, the mecca for Bali’s vibrant surf culture, Suarga Padang Padang seamlessly merges the region’s iconic beauty with modern luxury. 

Picture temples dramatically clinging to cliffs and renowned surfing spots like Impossibles and the island’s very own Pipeline. Yet, amidst this surfer’s paradise, Suarga Padang Padang distinguishes itself not just with its contemporary elegance but also with its commendable commitment to sustainable boutique living.

The resort’s location is, without doubt, a surfer’s dream. Positioned gloriously on Padang Padang, it offers unparalleled access to one of the world’s most coveted waves. A brief 50m stroll from the resort leads you to a stairway, the gateway to the beach below, where one can experience the thrill of riding the best left-hander on the planet. 

Dive into the harmonious blend of sustainability and surf luxury at Suarga Padang Padang, where conscious living meets unadulterated thrill.

Hotel Komune: Where Laid-back Luxury Meets Authentic Surfing Culture

Perched on the serene eastern shores of Keramas, Hotel Komune is a gem of understated elegance. This resort is a haven for those who cherish genuine luxury devoid of any pretence. Revered as one of the finest surf resorts in Bali, it epitomises the relaxed surfer spirit. 

With features ranging from organic dining experiences and exhilarating night surfs to a vibrant skate bowl and a meticulously designed kids club, there’s something for every guest. And for those wishing to infuse a cultural essence into their surf-centric holiday, the enchanting realm of Ubud is merely a 45-minute drive away.

For surf enthusiasts, the hotel’s prime location is a godsend. Keramas, with its high-performance right-hander waves, lies literally at the hotel’s doorstep, offering direct access to one of Bali’s premier surf spots. An added allure is Hotel Komune’s unique night surfing offering. 

Their state-of-the-art floodlights transform the beach into an ethereal nocturnal surfing playground, a feature few places can boast of. Dive into Bali surf Hotel Komune, where unpretentious luxury and authentic surfing vibes coalesce seamlessly.

Anantara Uluwatu: Exquisite Luxury Nestled Amongst the Waves

Perched gracefully on the scenic Bukit Peninsula, Anantara Uluwatu encapsulates the very essence of opulence. This resort, etched into the cliffside, offers not just mesmerising ocean vistas but also an access gateway to some of the most exhilarating surfing spots in Bali. 

Beyond the waves, guests are pampered with a myriad of experiences, be it hands-on cooking classes, artistic endeavours, invigorating spa treatments, or a vibrant daily agenda tailor-made for the young ones. It’s a place where every detail is curated to cater to the varied tastes of its discerning visitors.

For those whose heart beats in rhythm with the ocean’s waves, Anantara Uluwatu is nothing short of paradise. The novel experience of riding an elevator down a cliff leads you directly to the legendary left-hander waves of the Impossibles surf break, an arena cherished by skilled surfers. Venture a tad right, and the resonant waves of Bingin beckon. 

Meanwhile, the formidable Balinese Pipeline of Padang Padang lies enticingly to your left. For those wishing to explore, the resort conveniently offers shuttles to adjacent shores. At Anantara Uluwatu, immerse yourself in a world where sheer luxury mingles with raw natural beauty.

Six Senses Uluwatu: Eco-Luxury with a Spectacular Ocean Panorama

Embracing both families on surf expeditions and those seeking a more refined experience, Six Senses Uluwatu stands as a beacon of balance. Its sprawling vistas of the azure ocean, combined with gracefully designed villas, give guests a sense of sophisticated tranquillity. 

The Mediterranean ambiance is an added charm, but what truly sets it apart is its commendable commitment to eco-friendly initiatives. 

As guests explore, they’re treated to terraced pools cascading gracefully down the cliff, a taste of tantalising Japanese barbecue, and the assurance of a knowledgeable local team ready to craft the perfect Balinese itinerary.

While the resort doesn’t offer direct surf access, it compensates splendidly. With a dedicated driver at your beck and call, embarking on a surf adventure to the renowned breaks of Bingin, Padang Padang, and Uluwatu becomes effortlessly convenient. 

Typical surf excursions span around four hours, striking a harmonious blend of adrenaline-pumping surf sessions and quality family moments. Six Senses Uluwatu is a testament to how one can enjoy an eco-conscious stay without compromising on luxury, making it one of Bali’s most sought-after surf resorts.

Alila Villas Uluwatu: Beyond Surfing, A Journey of Elegance and Culture

At Alila Villas Uluwatu, expect to be transported to a realm where the charm of Bali’s rich heritage converges with modern architectural marvels.

The resort’s standout infinity pool, celebrated globally, offers unparalleled vistas, while its avant-garde villas ensure guests experience luxury at its finest. Yet, Alila Villas Uluwatu isn’t just about opulence. The resort immerses its visitors in indigenous journeys, presenting an authentic taste of Balinese culture nestled amidst famed temples and world-renowned surf breaks.

For the surfing aficionado, Alila Villas doesn’t disappoint. 

With a dedicated private driver and a seasoned surf coach by your side, you’re always just a heartbeat away from the Bukit Peninsula’s most illustrious waves. Uluwatu and Padang Padang, with their mesmerising surf sequences, are merely a brisk 15-minute drive from the resort. 

This close proximity ensures that you can indulge in those magical sunrise or sunset surf sessions, effortlessly blending exhilaration with tranquillity. Alila Villas Uluwatu stands as a testament to the belief that a Bali surf holiday can be both a luxurious and culturally enriching escapade.

Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay: A Confluence of Luxurious Serenity and Thrilling Adventure

Elegantly perched on the fringes of Jimbaran Bay, the Four Seasons stands as a paragon of unadulterated luxury and meticulous attention to detail. 

This mesmerising resort, meticulously chiselled from volcanic stone, promises not just serenity but also an array of activities that promise to engage and exhilarate from sunrise to sunset. 

The ambience is further enriched by the renowned Spa Village, widely acknowledged as among Bali’s most invigorating sanctuaries. And for those enticed by the cosmopolitan allure of Seminyak, its vibrant bars and chic boutiques are a mere half-hour’s journey away.

Surfers, both neophytes and maestros, will find the Four Seasons’ offerings tantalisingly irresistible. Capitalising on its eminent stature, the resort collaborates with Tropicsurf to provide guided boat transfers, seamlessly transporting enthusiasts to Bali’s most coveted surf breaks – the legends of Uluwatu, Bingin, and the impeccable waves of Padang Padang. 

For the adventurers seeking unparalleled surfing experiences, Four Seasons introduces a unique proposition: heli-tours to G-Land, ensuring an unforgettable day of surfing in some of the world’s most secluded and thrilling waves. In the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay, every moment is curated to be a blend of tranquil relaxation and heart-pounding adventure.

Conclusion

Bali, with its mesmerising blend of culture, nature, and adrenaline-pumping surf breaks, has firmly cemented its reputation as a go-to destination for luxury seekers and wave riders alike. As we’ve journeyed through these lavish retreats, it’s evident that these 11 luxury surf resorts in Bali offer more than just a place to rest – they curate moments, memories, and experiences that linger long after the sun has set over the horizon. 

Whether you’re catching the perfect wave, unwinding in sophisticated splendour, or simply soaking up the island’s unparalleled beauty, these resorts guarantee a Balinese adventure of a lifetime. As you plan your next escape, remember to indulge in the crests and troughs of luxury that only Bali can offer. Safe travels and may your quest for the ultimate surf luxury remain unending!

Justin Faulkner

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