Top Luxurious Resorts in Indonesia
Some of the most luxurious resort hotels on the planet are located in Indonesia, home to everything a well-traveled hotel connoisseur would expect: beautiful beaches, delicious food, postcard-perfect views, and faultless service. Therefore, it’s hardly a surprise that our readers are willing to endure multiple flights (and more than a full day of travel) to reach this archipelago of some 17,500 islands. Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, readers weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — sharing their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels are rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Importantly, properties are classified as City or Resort based on their locations and amenities.
The love affair with Bali continues this year, as the island is home to four of the five resorts on the list. Of note is the recent renovation of the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, where all 147 thatched-roof villas received a fresh look using traditional Balinese ikat fabrics, wooden sculptures, and local artwork. Each villa features its own infinity plunge pool and breathtaking views over Mount Agung, making it a very private and romantic setting for visitors.
Amandari is a big hit with couples (and loyal Aman fanatics) due to its secluded setting near Ubud, nestled in Bali’s lush interior. Suites showcase coconut and teak wood accents and have their own private gardens, while the open-air lobby is modeled after a wantilan (village meeting place). “The décor was stunning, and very true to the area and culture,” said one satisfied visitor. “Impeccable service,” they added.
Moreover, in the beachside area of Nusa Dua, the St. Regis Bali Resort impresses with an almost 40,000-square-foot swimmable lagoon. However, the sole non-Bali resort on the list also happens to be this year’s winner. Nihi Sumba Island, formerly known as Nihiwatu, scored rave reviews across the board for its remote location (it’s an hour by plane from Bali). Owner Chris Burch, who acquired the property in 2012, expanded its facilities while managing to preserve the edge-of-civilization vibe and strong community connection.
Read on to discover how each resort ranks.
5. St. Regis Bali Resort
Score: 90.24
4. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
Score: 93.42
3. Amandari, Bali
Score: 94.20
2. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Score: 96.88
1. Nihi Sumba Island (formerly Nihiwatu)
Score: 99.12
With just 33 villas spread across 560 acres, Nihi Sumba Island offers an unparalleled resort experience, focusing on privacy and exclusivity. Consequently, visitors can partake in virtually any water activity on the near-empty beach, from surfing one of the best breaks in Indonesia to snorkeling, free diving, and spearfishing. For those looking to enjoy land-based activities, options like yoga, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are also available, all within one of the most stunning jungle settings in Indonesia. As one guest expressed, “this is paradise.”
