Within 15 minutes of exiting the airport, you can have your toes in the golden sands of Jimbaran Beach – what more could you ask for on a Balinese getaway? In fact, Jimbaran is known as one of the best beaches around and you could easily spend all your time meandering, swimming, and soaking up the sun on the exquisite sands. Just a few steps away from the beach are the bougainvillea and frangipani-filled gardens of the Belmond, dotted with a selection of gorgeous villas. When you're not relaxing in the ginormous, Javanese stone pool, grab a Mojito de Ladro at the beachside bar and watch the waves roll in.
The Belmond has two excellent restaurants. Enjoy an impressive breakfast spread at breezy Tunjung – you name it and the chef can prepare it – and head to beachfront Nelayan for the freshest seafood on the island, served in the form of Mediterranean and local dishes. You can see the catch of the day being brought in every morning! When you're in need of a pamper, head to one of the open-air spa bales or enjoy an impromptu massage on your sun lounger...
Surrounded by immaculate tropical gardens, the Belmond has a selection of traditional Balinese cottages and deluxe villas. All have a classic, Indonesian look with vaulted ceilings over beds swathed in netting, spacious, marble bathrooms with sunken tubs, and terraces with views of the garden or sea – we'd opt for the latter. The villas offer an added dash of luxury with private pools, and the very best boast a thatched bale where you can enjoy private massages.
Jimbaran Beach is fantastic for swimming and sunning, or take a walk along the shoreline to explore the bustling fish markets and grab a bite to eat. You can even enjoy a cooking class on the sand! There are also fantastic spots for kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkelling, as well as surfing lessons. You could also meander up and down the coast to admire some of the area's most striking temples like Uluwatu, which is known for its daily Kecak dance performances held at sunset.
Having the beach at your finger (and toe) tips at all times. Dreamy...
If you're travelling with younger children and want to stay in a pool villa, book the one-bedroom villa as the larger ones are separated. The staff are also fantastic with little ones!
The garden view cottages are slightly inland so they don't have a sea view and are closer together than the other villas.
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A golden stretch, famous for seafood, sunsets and beautiful, gentle waters.