Close to Bali's southern tip, Uluwatu is characterised by craggy limestone cliffs, fringed by golden beaches and the warm waves of the Indian Ocean. A surfers’ haven since the 1970s, this striking region has become an increasingly upmarket favourite in recent years, with beautiful boutique hotels and swish clifftop resorts promising an indulgent escape for honeymooners, couples or active families. Check out our list of the best places to stay in Uluwatu as you plan your trip.

First featured in the 1971 surf classic ‘Morning of the Earth’, Uluwatu’s five breaks have long drawn surfers from across the globe, eager to hone their skills on the swells of Bombie, Temples, Outside Corner, Racetracks and The Peak. Borrow a board and hit the waves, or join devotees at the Puma Luhur Uluwatu, one of Bali’s most famous Hindu temples. Believed to shield the island against evil, the temple plays host to mesmerising sunset kecak dance performances, observed by visitors, locals and the inquisitive resident macaque monkeys alike.

Pick a perch at one of Uluwatu’s buzzy cafés, shop at hip boutiques and art galleries, enjoy restorative Balinese massages or tuck into superb seafood and craft cocktails at lively beach clubs each evening. There are opportunities to hike, cycle and horse ride, as well as to kick back on picturesque sandy beaches aplenty. Whether you’re dreaming of an unforgettable honeymoon or a fun-filled trip with family and friends, the best places to stay in Uluwatu await.

The Best Places to Stay in Uluwatu

For a Serene Sanctuary

• The Asa Maia is made up of just 10 restored gladaks — hand-hewn traditional teak homes — in lush gardens. An adult-only wellness retreat, this serene sanctuary has a superb spa, yoga shala, saltwater pool and casual dining restaurant with an emphasis on healthy cuisine and a strong eco ethos. Gorgeous.
• Suarga Padang Padang's organic spaces have been lovingly constructed from reclaimed wood and bamboo by its inspiring owners, who sourced materials piece by piece from around Indonesia. Sustainability is at the heart of this tranquil retreat, which runs on solar power and champions local artisans. Restful and romantic — but also good for eco-minded families.

For Families

• Six Senses Uluwatu is perched on the cliffs above the ocean, showcasing the dramatic views which have made Uluwatu famous. Multi-bedroom villas with private pools, a buzzy kids' club, starlit movie nights and myriad outdoor activities on both land and water make this a family favourite.

For Design-Led Luxury

• Alila Villas Uluwatu is a cutting-edge clifftop resort with panoramic ocean views, slick, minimalist villas with private pools and oversized daybeds, and acclaimed gourmet cuisine. A tremendously striking choice for dramatic design lovers and romantics looking for luxury.
• Bulgari Resort Bali oozes glamour, with 59 resplendent clifftop villas promising private pools, big beds topped with handwoven textiles and expansive ocean views. The sophisticated restaurant, striking spa and Bulgari boutique — the only one in Bali — make this a luxury design lover's dream.
• Hidden Hills Villas boasts 23 suites and villas, each uniquely themed around a particular destination. Choose to stay in playful St Tropez, for example, or blue-and-white clad Santorini. Tremendously romantic, this design-focused spot is also great for families or groups — as well as for intimate weddings. Friendly owners and an exceptional restaurant complete the picture.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Most visitors arrive at Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport — which is also sometimes called Bali International or Denpasar International — a major hub for Australia and South East Asia. If you’re coming from Europe or the US, you might need to travel via Jakarta Airport. Speak to your hotel about arranging an airport transfer, or hop into one of the many airport taxis on arrival, pre-paid at a ticket booth just before the duty-free area. The airport is around 45 minutes' drive from Uluwatu.
• Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Close to the equator, tropical Bali is hot and humid year-round. July - August and the Christmas holidays are the most popular time to visit, but you'll find good weather and good deals April - June and in September, outside the rainy season but without the crowds.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Jimbaran.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Bali.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.