Maya Sanur Resort and Spa

There's really nothing else like the Maya in Sanur -- and that's definitely a good thing. This is a contemporary and intimate resort that creates a luxury experience while keeping its unpretentious vibe. Despite an imposing exterior -- the angular neo-Brutalist facade is topped with a landscaped eco-friendly rooftop -- once inside, there's an undeniably softer air, with all sorts of nooks and seating areas where guests can unwind. These range from the buzzing bar that overlooks the small beach (it's a popular spot among travelers from across Sanur at happy hour), to the breezy rooftop, the elegant spa, and the pools that seem to envelop the entire property. Since the hotel is relatively small, though, it always has a hushed atmosphere, and the buzzing dining and drinking venues are far enough away from the guest rooms to keep things sedate. While rates here are high for the area, they're still entirely reasonable for a luxury property, which helps make this stunning hideaway popular with families and couples.  

It doesn't get more central in Sanur than the Maya's location, and just outside of the hotel are countless other restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops slinging everything from elegant batik dresses to tacky souvenirs. Thankfully, the hotel itself is set back from the main road, guaranteeing a quiet stay. On the other side of the property is the buzzing Sanur beachfront promenade and the beach, though it's not the nicest strip of sand that we saw during our visit. It's a 10-minute walk south to the trendy restaurants just beyond an impending Hyatt development, and a 15-minute walk north to popular spots like Warung Little Bird. Expect a five-minute cab ride to the Sindhu Night Market, which is a must-visit for travelers who want to sample authentic Indonesian food. For a wild night out, expect a 45-minute drive to Kuta or Seminyak, as traffic can be horrible in this part of Bali. It will take at least 30 minutes to reach the airport by taxi.

Guest rooms are handsome and stylish, and one of the real joys of a stay here. Expect to see bright green and white tones alongside natural hemp-hued upholstery and rich hardwood details. Contemporary abstract art adds just a touch of edge to the overall look, contrasting the otherwise naturalistic patterns in the rugs and soft furnishings. All rooms have generous seating -- including loveseats and windowside daybeds -- even though some lower-category rooms are a bit compact. Rooms are also geared for a good night's sleep, as they are essentially silent at night and the firm, but yielding beds are some of the best we found in Bali. Standard features include free Wi-Fi, large flat-screen TVs, powerful air-conditioning, free fruit and bottled water, turndown service, safes, irons, kettles, and minibars. Balconies or terraces come standard as well, with some leading directly into the exclusive lagoon pool. Suites add more space and are housed in a semi-separate wing of the hotel. These include stunning private infinity pools and espresso machines. Bathrooms are equally extravagant; their spacious layouts feature dual sinks in all rooms, plus separate soaking tubs, rainfall showers, and premium bath products. They do have glass walls that can be closed off with blinds in most rooms, while suite bathrooms are partially open to the sleeping area. While the hotel is seaside, the rooms lack great views of the water or beach.

This hotel has all of the expected features of a luxury property, and many are executed at a level that soars above the local competition. Unfortunately that doesn't hold true for the beach, which is narrow and lacks seating, but the beachside pool is gorgeous, as is the lagoon pool that runs alongside Lagoon Access Rooms. Pool seating is limited, though poolside service is available just by pressing a button. A family pool is tucked away in an interior corner of the property. The spa is a real highlight and embodies exactly the kind of tropical serenity many are seeking when they land in Bali. The stunning space, with its striking central water pond, has six treatment rooms and offers a range of massage and beauty packages. It also includes a small, but modern fitness room that's sufficient for a basic workout, and free daily yoga classes are offered.

Dining is another feat at the Maya, with three restaurants and a popular beachside bar. Happy hour at the bar draws outside travelers making their way up and down the adjacent promenade, and can be especially alluring when the full moon rises over the sea. The Japanese restaurant, Kuu, is one of the best dining options in town and offers a dining experience that's traditional, yet playful. Reef, the main restaurant, is open for all three meals, and the included breakfast buffet is a massive spread that features Western options and delicious local treats as well. 

There are numerous places to unwind throughout the property, including a lovely glassed-in room with views out to sea, as well as up on the lawned rooftop. The art gallery shows local contemporary work, and other pieces are scattered about the hotel as well. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and meeting and conference rooms are available. Note: There is no local shuttle service.