Karma Kandara

With its secluded location atop a cliff overlooking the ocean, the Karma Kandara is well-designed for relaxation. Meandering paths are flanked by thick tropical vegetation, ponds, and stone walls separating private gardens from common spaces. Unlike at many high-end resorts in the area, the lobby here is small and streamlined, setting the tone for an intimate, private stay. Decor is kept simple yet elegant, with gleaming white floor tiles, wooden ceilings, and clean lines. White stone accents and the extensive use of wood lend the space some local charm, while the earth tone palette punctuated by a dark accent wall looks fresh and contemporary. 

Other common spaces, including the restaurants and the pools, are stylish but also down-to-earth, with subdued contemporary decor in a light palette that highlights the property’s natural beauty. The expansive ocean views are the star of the show here, and all common spaces have been built in a way to make the most of the hotel’s position on a cliffside, with open designs that invite guests to unwind and take in the natural surroundings.

The hotel is located in a quiet area on Bali’s southern coast known for being home to stunning luxury resorts. It is right at the top of a striking cliff that ends in a lovely sandy beach, and there isn’t much within walking distance except for a couple of beach clubs and other hotels. The stunning Uluwatu Temple is a 20-minute drive away, and there is a golf course about the same distance from the property. There are a few restaurants and shops in Jimbaran and Nusa Dua, each about 20 minutes away, and Kuta’s nightlife can be reached in about 35 minutes. The airport is a 40-minute drive away. 

Karma Kandara offers 54 villas, each set in a private garden with an infinity pool. Villas range from spacious one-bedroom units with living areas to massive 12,917-square-foot five-bedroom units with two pools, a private gym, a spa, and an on-site movie theater. Villas have a stylish blend of elegant contemporary decor and traditional Balinese details, including wood carvings, dark wooden floors, grass-and-wood ceilings, and local stone accents. Four-poster beds with muslin drapes, and iridescent silks in caramel, red, and burgundy hues lend spaces lots of local charm, while gleaming veined floors and the mix of heavy wooden furniture and gray couches make for sleek living areas. 

Serene gardens are equipped with gorgeous infinity pools, outdoor dining areas, teak decks with loungers, outdoor showers, and tons of tropical plants. Full kitchens come with stocked fridges, stovetops, microwaves, ovens, toasters, electric kettles, and dishwashers. Bathrooms are spacious and upscale, with separate rain showers and stone tubs, wood accents, an array of hotel-brand toiletries. Traditional and contemporary Balinese art is displayed in all villas, and all units feature flat-screen TVs, DVD players, free Wi-Fi, iPod docks, and pillow menus.

A fun funicular takes guests from the top of the cliff to the hotel’s lovely beach below. It is a small but cute stretch of sand, and features free non-motorized water sports, and a hip beach club complete with DJ sessions, loungers, cabanas, and a restaurant. It is open to non-guests as well, so those looking to spend some time there may want to book a lounger ahead of time. Aside from drinks and small bites, the beach club also offers movie nights under the stars, and a serene spot for spa treatments. The spa itself is located on a platform overlooking the Indian Ocean, and offers a long list of treatments and a sauna. The fitness center is housed in a tree-house-style teak structure with glass walls offering panoramic jungle views, and features personal trainers and a handful of machines. 

There are two pools on-site, a shallow, quiet one with a few cabanas, and a large infinity-edge one with stunning ocean views. Di Mare serves Mediterranean cuisine right above the main pool, and has an open design that allows for panoramic ocean views from all tables. There are two drinking options here: a wine bar complete with a cigar lounge, and a rooftop lounge with Moroccan-inspired decor, a Middle Eastern menu, and wonderful sea views. The kids’ club is open to kids between two and 11 years old, and offers a wide array of activities, including arts and crafts, swimming, and family-friendly excursions. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.