Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves, stepping onto your private balcony, and being greeted by an endless expanse of sparkling blue ocean. If that sounds like your dream Bali vacation, then you’re in the right place! Bali is famous for its breathtaking ocean vistas, and choosing the right hotel can make all the difference in truly soaking it all in.
As someone who understands what makes people click (and book!), I’ve put together a curated list of seven incredible hotels in Bali that are renowned for their spectacular ocean views. These aren’t just any hotels; they’re places that consistently deliver unforgettable experiences, making them top contenders for your next island escape.
Why Ocean Views Matter for Your Bali Getaway
Let’s be honest, you’re coming to Bali for the beauty, and a huge part of that beauty is the ocean. But it’s more than just a pretty picture.
The Psychology of a Seaview
There’s something incredibly calming and inspiring about looking out at the vast ocean. It can help you de-stress, feel more connected to nature, and simply enhance your overall sense of well-being. Waking up to a stunning ocean view can set a positive tone for your entire day, encouraging relaxation and a sense of wonder. It’s not just a backdrop; it’s an integral part of the Bali experience.
Maximizing Your Bali Experience
When you have a great ocean view, you’re not just staying in a hotel; you’re immersing yourself in the destination. Imagine enjoying your morning coffee while watching the sunrise paint the sky over the water, or sipping a cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon in a blaze of color. These are the moments that become lasting memories, and a fantastic ocean view amplifies every single one of them.
Our Top 7 Hotel Picks for Unforgettable Bali Ocean Views
Ready to dive into our recommendations? Each of these hotels offers something unique, but they all share one common thread: incredible ocean vistas that will take your breath away.
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Bali (Nusa Dua)
Luxurious Escape with Panoramic Horizons
Nestled on a pristine white sand beach in Nusa Dua, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, offers unparalleled luxury with truly magnificent ocean views. Many of their suites and villas are strategically positioned to give you sweeping panoramas of the Indian Ocean. Imagine lounging by an infinity pool that seems to blend seamlessly with the sea.
- Why it stands out: Opulent accommodations, exceptional service, and direct beach access complement the stunning views. Perfect for those seeking a high-end, relaxing retreat.
- Best for: Couples, families, luxury travelers.
- Pros: Opulent accommodations, exceptional service, direct beach access, world-class dining.
- Cons: Can be pricey, a bit secluded from central Bali’s nightlife.
- Why it’s awesome: Unmatched luxury with some of the most expansive ocean views on the island.
- Average price: ~$400–700/night
- Special thing: Their stunning Hydro-Vital Pool within the spa, offering ocean-facing relaxation.
Where to Book and How Much?
- Tripadvisor from $ 1623
- Trip.com from $ 423
- Agoda from $ 363
- Booking from $ 1455
- Expedia from $ 392
2. Ayana Resort and Spa, Bali (Jimbaran)
Iconic Cliffs and Sunset Spectacles
Ayana Resort and Spa is legendary for its dramatic clifftop location in Jimbaran. Home to the famous Rock Bar, this resort boasts some of the most iconic sunset views in Bali, with the ocean stretching out endlessly below. Many rooms, villas, and dining venues are designed to maximize these incredible vistas.
- Why it stands out: Multiple pools, diverse dining options, and the world-renowned Rock Bar for an unforgettable sunset experience.
- Best for: Couples, groups, those looking for a lively atmosphere with stunning backdrops.
- Pros: World-famous Rock Bar, multiple diverse pools and restaurants, expansive grounds, breathtaking sunset views.
- Cons: Can feel very large and busy, Rock Bar can get crowded.
- Why it’s awesome: The sheer scale of amenities combined with the truly iconic cliffside ocean views.
- Average price: ~$300–600/night
- Special thing: The legendary Rock Bar, built on a natural rock formation at the base of the cliff, offering unparalleled sunset drinks.
Where to Book and How Much?:
- Tripadvisor from $ 352
- Trip.com from $ 355
- Booking from $ 337
- Expedia from $ 392
3. Alila Villas Uluwatu (Uluwatu)
Eco-Luxury with Breathtaking Cliffside Panoramas
Perched on a limestone cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Alila Villas Uluwatu is an architectural masterpiece. This eco-friendly resort offers private villas with stunning infinity pools that appear to spill into the ocean below. The minimalist design ensures nothing obstructs your view.
- Why it stands out: Sustainable luxury, private villa experience, incredible design, and a serene, exclusive atmosphere.
- Best for: Honeymooners, design enthusiasts, those seeking privacy and tranquility.
- Pros: Sustainable luxury, private villa experience, incredible design and architecture, serene and exclusive atmosphere, exceptional service.
- Cons: Higher price point, relatively isolated (requires transport for sightseeing).
- Why it’s awesome: A true design icon offering ultimate privacy and a deep connection with the clifftop ocean environment.
- Average price: ~$700–1200/night
- Special thing: Their signature Cabana, a cantilevered platform offering a truly unique spot for dining or yoga with 180-degree ocean views.
Where to Book and How Much?:
- Tripadvisor from $ 944
- Trip.com from $ 836
- Agoda from $ 785
- Booking from $ 1029
- Expedia from $ 778
4. Bulgari Resort Bali (Uluwatu)
Italian Elegance Meets Balinese Beauty
The Bulgari Resort Bali, also located in Uluwatu, offers an exquisite blend of Italian sophistication and Balinese charm. Situated on a secluded plateau, the resort provides truly dramatic ocean views from its luxurious villas and common areas. It’s an experience in refined indulgence.
- Why it stands out: Unrivaled privacy, impeccable service, stunning design, and a sense of exclusive luxury.
- Best for: Discerning travelers, couples, those seeking the ultimate in high-end escape.
- Pros: Unrivaled privacy and exclusivity, impeccable service, stunning design and materials, very quiet and luxurious.
- Cons: Very high price point, not ideal for those seeking proximity to busy areas.
- Why it’s awesome: The ultimate in secluded, high-fashion luxury with arguably the most dramatic clifftop ocean views.
- Average price: ~$800–1500/night
- Special thing: Access to a private beach below the cliff, reachable by an inclinator, offering a unique and exclusive beachfront experience.
Where to Book and How Much?
- Tripadvisor from $ 1567
- Trip.com from $ 1411
- Expedia from $ 1396
5. Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Ubud – with a twist!)
Riverside Serenity, But Some Suites Offer Distant Ocean Glimpses
While primarily known for its lush rice paddies and river views in Ubud, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, surprisingly offers a few select villas and suites that provide distant, elevated glimpses of the ocean on a clear day. This is a unique option for those who want the best of both worlds – the tranquility of Ubud with a touch of the ocean. Please note: For direct, front-row ocean views, the other hotels on this list are more suitable. This is a special mention for a unique perspective.
- Why it stands out: Exceptional service, serene environment, cultural immersion, and a unique distant ocean view for select accommodations.
- Best for: Travelers seeking tranquility and luxury with a potential for unique, distant ocean views.
- Pros: Exceptional service, incredibly serene environment, deep cultural immersion, luxurious villas.
- Cons: Ocean views are distant and only from select rooms, not a direct oceanfront property.
- Why it’s awesome: Offers the peaceful, spiritual side of Ubud with the rare bonus of a faraway ocean vista, blending two unique Bali experiences.
- Average price: ~$600–1000/night
- Special thing: Their dedicated “Patih” (butler) service for every villa, ensuring a highly personalized stay, complemented by unique cultural activities.
Where to Book and How Much?:
- Tripadvisor from $ 1705
- Trip.com from $ 1536
- Agoda from $ 1537
- Booking from $ 1856
- Expedia from $ 1396
6. The Ungasan Clifftop Resort (Uluwatu)
Exclusive Villas with Uninterrupted Vistas
The Ungasan Clifftop Resort in Uluwatu offers an exclusive collection of luxury villas, each with its own private infinity pool and, crucially, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. This resort provides a sense of seclusion and serenity, perfect for unwinding.
- Why it stands out: Large, private villas, exceptional service, and the famous Sunday’s Beach Club for a relaxed beachfront experience.
- Best for: Groups, families, those seeking a private villa experience with stunning views.
- Pros: Large, private villas ideal for groups/families, exceptional service, direct access to Sunday’s Beach Club.
- Cons: Can be expensive for smaller groups, some distance from main Uluwatu attractions.
- Why it’s awesome: Perfect for a luxurious group getaway with guaranteed private pools and stunning, unobstructed ocean panoramas.
- Average price: ~$500–1500+/night (depending on villa size)
- Special thing: Direct, complimentary access to Sunday’s Beach Club, a fantastic spot for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports with a relaxed vibe.
Where to Book and How Much?:
- Tripadvisor from $ 553
- Trip.com from $ 567
- Booking.com from $ 1305
- Expedia from $ 1396
7. Amankila (Manggis, East Bali)
Secluded Serenity with Majestic Coastal Views
Located in East Bali, Amankila (part of the Aman group) is celebrated for its iconic three-tiered infinity pool that descends towards the ocean. The suites are elevated, offering breathtaking views of the Lombok Strait and the surrounding hills. It’s a truly tranquil and luxurious escape.
- Why it stands out: Exceptional service, serene and secluded location, unique architecture, and a focus on tranquility and well-being.
- Best for: Discerning travelers, couples, those seeking a peaceful and luxurious retreat away from the crowds.
- Pros: Extremely private and peaceful, legendary Aman service, stunning design and architecture, focus on wellness and tranquility.
- Cons: Remote location (far from Southern Bali’s crowds), very high price point.
- Why it’s awesome: A serene sanctuary offering unparalleled peace and quiet, combined with an iconic infinity pool and majestic coastal views.
- Average price: ~$1000–1800/night
- Special thing: Their famous three-tiered infinity pool that cascades down a hillside, seemingly blending into the ocean.
Where to Book and How Much?:
- Tripadvisor from $ 1375
- Trip.com from $ 1250
- Agoda from $1050
Choosing Your Perfect Ocean View Haven
With so many fantastic options, how do you pick the right one? Consider what truly matters for your trip.
What’s Your Bali Vibe?
- Ultimate Luxury & Pampering: The Ritz-Carlton, Bulgari Resort Bali.
- Iconic Sunsets & Lively Atmosphere: Ayana Resort and Spa.
- Eco-Conscious Design & Privacy: Alila Villas Uluwatu.
- Exclusive Villa Living: The Ungasan Clifftop Resort.
- Tranquil Seclusion & Unique Charm: Amankila.
- Ubud Charm with Distant Ocean Glimpses: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (select rooms).
Booking Tips for the Best Views
- Be Specific: When booking, don’t just ask for an “ocean view.” Ask for a “direct ocean view,” “panoramic ocean view,” or a “high-floor ocean-facing room.”
- Check Room Categories: Many hotels have specific room categories dedicated to the best views. Be sure to look at these.
- Book in Advance: Especially for peak season, the rooms with the best views are often the first to be booked.
- Read Reviews: Look for recent guest reviews that specifically mention the views from different room types.
Ready to Book Your Bali Ocean View Paradise?
There’s no denying that an ocean view can elevate your Bali experience from great to truly unforgettable. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious cliffside villa in Bali, a serene beachside retreat, or a vibrant clifftop experience, Bali has a hotel with your name on it.
Start planning your trip today and secure that room with the view you’ve always dreamed of. Your perfect Bali ocean view escape awaits!
