A trip to Bali, trendy as it is, isn’t for the faint of heart.
Videos by TravelAwaits
Plane tickets are expensive for Americans, journeys are long, and you’ll be contending with jet lag for the first day or so of your trip. In other words, while I think Bali is one of the coolest destinations out there, you need to log some hours researching how to make your trip memorable.
Bali is an island with more surprises than you might think, from underwater sculpture parks that are regenerating coral reef systems to jungle parks where monkeys reign supreme. (It’s called the Sacred Monkey Forest—you can’t miss it.)
Personally, I think one of the best ways to soak up Balinese culture and get a more holistic (and impactful) view of the island is to simply consider where you book a room.
The island is home to dozens of quality hotels, from budget picks to luxury stays. Many of them specialize in cultural experiences for guests to enjoy. In some cases, the hotel’s design might also reflect local culture and history.
If you want to get even more out of your trip, stay at the best hotels in Bali for soaking up local culture. Here’s where to find them. First up: hotels owned by the island’s Royal Ubud Family. (Yes, the island is home to royalty!)
Best hotels in Bali for visitors who want to soak up local culture
Royal Pita Maha
- Owned by: The Royal Family of Ubud
- Perfect for: Couples who want to splurge, nature-lovers, and lux spa treatments
- Expect cultural experiences like: Balinese ruins are on the grounds (and framed around an outdoor event space), Balinese spa treatments, and Balinese cooking classes
This luxury five-star stay is owned by the Royal Family of Ubud (along with The Tjampuhan, below), giving you a literal regal experience while you stay. You’ll be nestled in the jungle along the Ayung River, giving you full immersion in nature. The rooms are also perfect for couples, especially the villas that come with private pools.
Hotel Tjampuhan & Spa
- Owned by: The Royal Family of Ubud
- Perfect for: Couples, nature-lovers, and fans of organic architecture
- Expect cultural experiences like: Balinese architecture, Balinese specialty dishes, and Balinese beauty treatments
This four-star hotel is also owned by the Ubud Royal Family. Like the Royal Pita Maha, the grounds are home to lush jungle, which overhangs the two outdoor pools. But this hotel has many buildings that date back to 1928, giving you a masterclass in Balinese architecture and woodworking. Think: a historic, grand feel set in the jungle.
Ananda Ubud Resort
- Owned by: Ibu Nyoman
- Perfect for: Couples, wellness-seekers, and foodies
- Expect cultural experiences like: Balinese cooking classes, Balinese dance classes, and Balinese design
Nestled amid working rice fields, Anana Ubud Resort plops your right into the Balinese rhythm of life. It’s got traditional resort features you want, like three outdoor pools and an open-air restaurant, along with yoga rooms where you can join classes. But the real star of the show are the Balinese classes available to book right on the grounds.
Tandjung Sari
- Owned by: Waworuntu Family (from Jakarta)
- Perfect for: Wellness retreats, nature-lovers, and beach-lovers
- Expect cultural experiences like: Balinese dance performances, traditional Indonesian dining, and Balinese architecture (including thatched-roof suites)
When you stay at Tandjung Sari, you’re staying at a historic hotel—one of the first to open up in Southeast Asia. It was founded by a family dealing in antiques in Jakarta, Indonesia, who stayed on the grounds of a former temple to source antiques. After decades of visiting, the family eventually helped construct a boutique hotel that still stands today. I recommend reading through the history—it’s pretty cool.
Gayatri Hotel
- Owned by: Bagus Ari Saputra
- Perfect for: Sustainability, organic food, and Balinese architecture
- Expect cultural experiences like: You can custom-design tours with the concierge to serve your exact needs—so come with a few ideas!
Bagus Ari Saputra inherited a small guesthouse from his father, which he has since transformed into a hotel that focuses heavily on Balinese culture. On the website, he describes that focus as both ‘physical and spiritual forms’. The architecture is stunning, while the hotel’s operations reflect the island’s humble, sustainable approach to life.
Saren Indah
- Owned by: Ari Saren
- Perfect for: Budget travelers, nature-lovers, and wildlife sightings
- Expect cultural experiences like: Balinese hospitality, Balinese cuisine, and customized tour suggestions
This hotel was founded by Ari Saren, a local who has a background in tourism and hospitality. You can expect a warm welcome from Balinese staff, who are renowned for their kind and gentle guidance. It’s also one of the more affordable hotels in Bali, meaning you can soak up culture from a local family without paying for a luxury price.
*I also recommend hotels and resorts from Putra Mas Group (PMG) Hotels & Resorts.
The company was founded decades ago when local businesspeople saw an opportunity to join the island’s growing hospitality ventures.
The group operates four properties across the island, including Bali Niksoma Boutique Beach Resort, The Magani, The Bandha Suites & Hotel, and Royal Suites at The Bandha. Each offers a slightly unique angle, along with plenty of cultural programming to help you get more out of your visit.
[Just a heads-up: We may earn an affiliate commission when you make a purchase from a link in our articles.]
