By HTE Founder, Erin Hughes.
For Sarita Holland, Bali is more than just a holiday destination. It’s a place she returns to time and time again.
Over the years, she has discovered the hotels, restaurants and beach clubs that keep her coming back. On her latest trip with daughter Stevie, she once again fell in love with two of Bali’s most iconic destinations, Uluwatu and Seminyak.
While both offer completely different experiences, together they create the perfect Bali itinerary.
From clifftop sunsets and incredible dining to family-friendly resorts and world-class beach clubs, here is Sarita’s personal edit of the places she always recommends.
Uluwatu: Clifftops, Sunsets and Slower Days
If Sarita had to choose one part of Bali, Uluwatu would win every time.
The laid-back atmosphere, stunning coastline and unforgettable sunsets make it one of the most beautiful parts of the island.
It offers a slower pace that feels worlds away from the busier tourist hubs, making it the perfect place to switch off and unwind.
Where to Stay
Ulu Cliffhouse
On her most recent trip, Sarita stayed at Ulu Cliffhouse in the Racetrack Room, booking last minute for approximately $350 AUD per night.
Unlike a traditional resort, Ulu Cliffhouse offers an intimate boutique experience with just seven rooms attached to the popular beach club.
Music plays until around 10pm each evening, so it’s better suited to couples, girls’ getaways or families with older children.
The oversized rooms, incredible ocean views and direct access to one of Uluwatu’s most iconic venues make it a memorable place to stay.
Where to Eat
Artisan Bali
One of Sarita’s favourite breakfast spots, with an extensive menu and consistently great food.
Ours Bali
Perfect for a fresh, healthy lunch in a beautiful setting.
Nourish Bali
Known for excellent coffee, delicious matcha and wholesome treats.
Kynd Community
A Bali favourite, with the Biscoff slice and strawberry matcha firmly on Sarita’s must-try list.
Masonry
An easy choice for dinner, serving incredible food every single time.
Malini Uluwatu
Fresh seafood paired with breathtaking clifftop views.
Yuki
One of Sarita’s all-time favourites and a place she still dreams about long after returning home.
Lola’s
Relaxed, fun and serving up delicious Mexican food.
Where to Watch the Sunset
Sunsets in Uluwatu are an experience in themselves, and these are the places Sarita recommends most:
Single Fin
The ultimate Uluwatu institution, combining ocean views, cocktails, pizzas and live music.
Savaya
A luxury beach club experience with incredible scenery and world-class DJs.
El Kabron
A little more indulgent, but worth every cent for the sunset alone.
White Rock Beach Club
Beautiful cocktails, relaxed vibes and spectacular ocean views.
Rock Bar
An iconic Bali destination that deserves a spot on every itinerary.
Beaches Worth Visiting
- Thomas Beach
- Blue Point Beach
- Melasti Beach
- Padang Padang Beach (just be prepared for the resident monkeys)
Seminyak: Food, Shopping and Convenience
Although Uluwatu holds a special place in her heart, Sarita almost always finishes her Bali holidays with a few nights in Seminyak.
For her, it’s the perfect way to end a trip.
Closer to the airport, packed with incredible restaurants and home to some of the island’s best shopping, Seminyak offers convenience without sacrificing the Bali experience.
It’s also a fantastic option for families, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, including Waterbom, Mrs Sippy and Motel Mexicola.
Where to Stay
W Bali
This trip, Sarita stayed at W Bali and was blown away by the attention to detail.
Despite being a large resort, it never felt overwhelming or difficult to navigate. Instead, it offered a sense of ease that made travelling with family effortless.
The thoughtful touches stood out most. Staff left cleaning kits beside sunglasses, wrapped charging cords with leather ties and delivered frozen watermelon and smoothie shots around the pool.
Combined with beautiful facilities, an excellent gym and spacious accommodation, it quickly became a standout.
Where to Eat
Da Maria
One of Sarita’s favourite Italian restaurants in Bali. Reservations are highly recommended.
Barbacoa
A long-time Seminyak favourite, known for its vibrant atmosphere, wood-fired cooking and incredible share plates.
Merah Putih
An iconic Bali dining experience showcasing modern Indonesian cuisine in one of the island’s most striking dining spaces.
Sardine
Set alongside lush rice fields, Sardine combines fresh seafood with a peaceful setting that feels a world away from the bustle of Seminyak.
La Lucciola
A Seminyak institution sitting right on Petitenget Beach. Whether it’s a long lunch or sunset dinner, it’s one of those places Sarita always recommends.
Estia
One of Seminyak’s newer dining favourites, serving fresh Mediterranean flavours in a beautiful, relaxed setting.
Happy Chappy
A go-to for delicious dumplings and vibrant share-style dining.
Mamasan
Modern Asian cuisine that remains a Bali classic and is perfect for date night.
Kynd Community
Still a favourite for breakfast, coffee and healthy meals.
Pallas Greek Taverna
Affordable, fresh and consistently good Greek food.
Beach Clubs
No trip to Seminyak feels complete without spending an afternoon at KU DE TA. One of Bali’s original beachfront destinations, it’s still one of Sarita’s favourite places to enjoy great food, cocktails and an unforgettable sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Uluwatu or Seminyak?
For travellers chasing breathtaking beaches, dramatic scenery and a slower pace, Uluwatu is hard to beat.
For those wanting convenience, shopping, incredible food and easy airport access, Seminyak still earns its place on every Bali itinerary.
The best part is that you don’t have to choose.
According to Sarita, the perfect Bali holiday includes a little bit of both. After reading her edit, it’s hard to disagree.
Sarita's Bali Edit
W Hotel
Ulu Cliffhouse
Yuki Bali
Kynd Community
El Kabron
