Resorts in Indonesia: A Comprehensive Guide to Paradise
Are you looking to plan your dream vacation to a tropical paradise? If the answer is a resounding yes, then it’s time to set your sights on the extraordinary archipelago of Indonesia. This Southeast Asian wonderland is not just about pristine beaches and azure seas, it’s a remarkable blend of culture, cuisine, history, and incredible natural beauty. This travel guide will take you through some of the finest resorts Indonesia has to offer. So, let’s embark on this sun-kissed journey!
1. Nihi Sumba Island
Our first stop is the enchanting Nihi Sumba Island, voted multiple times as the best hotel in the world. Perched on the edge of the wildness, this resort is not just a vacation destination, it’s an experience of a lifetime. Stay in one of their traditionally designed, yet luxuriously appointed villas, and wake up each morning to an awe-inspiring ocean view.
The resort offers a plethora of activities, from horse riding along the beach, trekking to nearby waterfalls, fishing, and of course, surfing. The resort boasts a private wave – yes, you read that right – a private wave named ‘Occy’s Left,’ offering an unparalleled surfing experience.
2. Amanwana, Moyo Island
Aman resorts are renowned for their minimalist elegance, unparalleled service, and amazing locations. Amanwana on Moyo Island is no exception. This tropical hideaway offers just 20 luxury tents nestled amid the wilderness of this nature reserve, making for an unforgettable, intimate retreat.
Amanwana is a dream come true for marine life enthusiasts. It is located in a protected marine park, offering world-class snorkeling and scuba diving experiences. Explore the vibrant reefs, filled with diverse marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, and a plethora of colorful fish species.
3. Viceroy Bali, Ubud
Let’s venture inland to the island of Bali, specifically the cultural heartland of Ubud. Overlooking the Valley of the Kings, Viceroy Bali offers a serene setting away from the hustle and bustle of the coastal areas.
The resort is famous for its stunning private pool villas, each offering a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle and rice paddies. The resort’s spa, perched on a ridge overlooking the Petanu River, offers an array of traditional Balinese healing therapies. You can also learn about Bali’s rich culture and tradition through the resort’s experiences, such as Balinese dance performances and cooking classes.
4. The Oberoi Beach Resort, Lombok
Lombok, Bali’s less crowded sister island, is an idyllic destination that’s gaining popularity among travelers. The Oberoi Beach Resort is set within a sprawling 24-acre tropical garden, with an exclusive beachfront and spectacular views of the Gili Islands.
The resort offers beautiful thatched-roof villas and pavilions, each featuring sunken marble garden bathtubs and exquisite traditional design elements. Lombok is renowned for its excellent dive spots, and the resort can arrange for both beginners and experienced divers to explore the vibrant underwater world.
5. Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa, Flores
If an encounter with the world’s largest lizard species, the Komodo dragon, is on your bucket list, then the Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa on the island of Flores is the place to be. The resort offers a balance of serenity with adventurous opportunities in the Komodo National Park.
Stay in one of their luxury villies or cabins, where you’re just steps away from a pristine beach. Enjoy their world-class spa, international cuisine, and an array of activities like diving, snorkeling, island-hopping, and trekking.
6. The Legian, Seminyak, Bali
Let’s continue our journey to the trendy beach town of Seminyak, home to The Legian. This all-suite hotel is famous for its exceptional beachfront location, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning sunset views Bali is known for.
The rooms at The Legian are a fusion of traditional Indonesian architecture and contemporary chic, with spacious balconies that overlook the sparkling Indian Ocean. A main attraction is their three-tiered pool, a mesmerizing aquatic landscape that seems to extend into the sea. It’s a foodie’s paradise too, offering a gourmet dining experience that mixes local ingredients and international cuisine.
7. Alila Villas, Uluwatu, Bali
Perched on a cliff 100 meters above the Indian Ocean, Alila Villas Uluwatu is the epitome of luxury. The resort’s striking architecture blends seamlessly with the stunning natural surroundings, and the view of the sun setting over the ocean is nothing short of magical.
The villas, designed using traditional Balinese touches, come with private pools and cabanas. The resort’s focus on sustainability is also commendable. One of the must-try experiences here is a visit to the resort’s award-winning Spa Alila, which offers a range of treatments using locally sourced, natural ingredients.
8. Bawah Reserve, Anambas Islands
Our next stop takes us off the beaten path to the Anambas Islands, a hidden gem located between Malaysia and Borneo. Bawah Reserve is the first and only resort in this stunningly untouched archipelago, making it a haven for those seeking complete seclusion and tranquility.
It offers a total of 35 villas, both overwater and beachfront, each one constructed with sustainable bamboo and other local materials. Activities here focus on embracing the stunning natural surroundings, with options such as snorkeling, diving, trekking, and paddleboarding. And with six private islands, you can even enjoy having an entire island to yourself for a day!
9. Misool, Raja Ampat
Misool in Raja Ampat is not just a resort, but a marine reserve that has played a significant role in conserving the area’s stunning biodiversity. This eco-resort is situated in the southern part of Raja Ampat, which is known for its magnificent marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
The resort offers over-water and beach villies, each built with replenishable materials, showcasing their commitment to sustainability. Dive or snorkel in the Misool Marine Reserve, join a mangrove kayak tour, or simply relax on your private balcony, enjoying the serene sea view.
Indonesia’s natural beauty and cultural richness are incredibly diverse, and so is the selection of its resorts. From secluded private islands to trendy beach towns, and from the heights of a cliff in Uluwatu to the marine reserve of Raja Ampat, this archipelago nation offers something for every discerning traveler. Come for the natural beauty, stay for the cultural immersion, and relax in the lap of luxury. Safe travels as you embark on your journey to this enchanting destination.