Top Resorts in Indonesia: Unveiling Luxurious Getaways

Over the past several years, one island has dominated as the most alluring vacation draw in Indonesia: Bali. It’s resort central for this nation of more than 17,000 islands, and it’s easily the most popular among travelers seeking a relaxing getaway. Four of the five top properties that readers selected for this year’s list of best resorts in Indonesia can be found here, with the island’s famous temples, beaches, and extensive tourist amenities all within reach.

Every year for the 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. Properties are rated based on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Hotels are classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

Bali is always well represented across the World’s Best Awards; in fact, the No. 3 property on this year’s list, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, was previously named the No. 1 Hotel in the World in 2018. One reader praised its “beautiful location, nestled among treetops with views of the jungle landscape,” also noting its proximity to Ubud and its “relaxing and blissful environment.”

One resort bucks the Bali trend: Nihi Sumba, on Sumba, one of the archipelago’s southeasternmost islands. The property, which came in second on this year’s list, has also been voted the No. 1 Hotel in the World by readers on multiple occasions. Why is it worth making the 1.5-hour drive from Sumba’s airport? Perhaps it’s the 27 sumptuously appointed villas — each with a butler, private terrace, and ocean views — and 567 secluded acres to explore. Or maybe, as one reader put it, it’s because “it’s the most magical, beautiful place on earth, with the most spectacular feeling of warmth and welcome.”

Still, the top Indonesia resort brings us back to Bali — moving from second place last year to claim the No. 1 spot. Read on for the full list of top resorts.

5. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, Bali

Score: 92.31

More information: fourseasons.com

4. The Ritz-Carlton, Bali

Score: 94.12

More information: ritzcarlton.com

3. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Bali

Score: 95.83

More information: fourseasons.com

2. Nihi Sumba, Sumba

Score: 96.46

More information: nihi.com

1. The Mulia, Bali

Score: 98.25

More information: themulia.com

This all-suite enclave is located in the Nusa Dua coastal region of southern Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, which one reader called “a sanctuary to relax and rejuvenate.” The area is home to a number of luxury hotels, including the brand’s adjacent properties, Mulia Resort and Mulia Villas. It’s also beloved by international travelers for its white-sand beaches and world-class water sports. At the Mulia, every suite comes with afternoon tea, cabana access, an outdoor whirlpool bath, and personalized butler service. One respondent noted, “I can’t find any flaws at all!”