5 Best Hotels in Seminyak, Indonesia

Wellness treatments and holistic living are the big draw at Desa Seni, but even if you spurn crystal spiritual detoxification you can enjoy its serenity and style. The resort, whose name means Art Village, offers five yoga classes daily. Alternatively, you can ride a free bicycle to the beach or nearby village, hang out by the pool, or take a cab into downtown Seminyak, 5 km (3 miles) south. Antique joglo (wooden houses) that were relocated from across Indonesia make for unique accommodations, and have been fitted with TVs and DVD players and Wi-Fi connections. The bathrooms are spacious and modern. The food here is organic, much of it from Desa Seni's gardens, but the menu makes ample concessions to carnivores.

Balinese charm and a lush garden thrive at Puri Cendana, just a short walk from the beach and nightlife. The duplex cottages sit in a courtyard shaded by mature trees, with thick grass and bright native flowers. Each room has a terrace to enjoy the greenery, but the best views are from the upstairs units. Through elaborately carved, multicolored Balinese doors you'll discover high-ceilinged, whitewashed rooms furnished in traditional local style, including four-poster beds with mosquito nets. The pleasant pool has cushioned sun lounges and a bar serving drinks and snacks.

Close to the beach but removed from the scene, Raja Gardens is a tranquil haven in hectic Seminyak. Whitewashed brick bungalows provide modern accommodations, with nice touches like air-conditioning. The big attractions here are the vast grassy garden and sparkling pool, suitable for lounging or laps. The beach beckons just 100 meters down the lane, and some of the island's hippest bars are at the far end of the street, but you'd never know it from all the pace and quiet. Raja Garden is a friendly, family-run retreat, so if you're planning bacchanalia in Bali, head elsewhere.

Down the road from the area's original surfer hangout, Su's Cottages II offers more rooms and a bit more comfort while matching the friendly feel and strategic location of Su's Cottages I. Standard rooms have TVs with international channels, refrigerators, and balconies overlooking the inviting swimming pool. The hotel is a short walk to the beach and within easy reach of shops, restaurants, and nightspots. Su's retains its helpful, hospitable vibe.

If you want to be part of the in-crowd in Bali, the W Seminyak is the place to make your entrance. This regal resort features beachfront lounges and bars where international DJs entertain the beautiful people caught up in the act of being themselves. The see-and-be-scene theme extends to rooms, where the glass-walled showers are perfect for exhibitionists. Expect all the latest gadegets, from 40-inch flat-screen TVs to docks for your electronics to theater-style sound systems. The resort's sleek, modern buildings are laid out around a series of lagoon-style pools.