We all know that Bali is a wonderful family destination. But is it a place where Lux Travellers can combine luxury with a family vacation?

After visiting Karma Kandara we can say ‘Yes’ with certainty. Karma Kandara is an exceptional resort, one of a kind in Bali. What makes Karma unique is its stunning beach with crystal clear blue water and white sand. It is the only beach of its kind in Bali, a real treat.

Location

Karma is located in Uluwatu, perched on top of a cliff in the southern part of Bali. It is about 30 min away from the airport and an hour away from Seminyak (main shopping / restaurant area). It is a gorgeous remote location, far away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Bali, a perfect place for a relaxing break!

However, if you do want to mix up your vacation, a trip to town is easy – just hire a private driver who will wait for you and bring you home. Hotel’s Private Concierge can organise it for you as well as any other excursions or restaurant reservations you might request.

From places of interest, famous Uluwatu temple is 2o min away and new Kuta Golf course is 10 min away.

Accommodation

Karma has the largest selection of 3 and 4 bedroom villas amongst Bali luxury resorts. There are 54 villas in total, all with fully equipped kitchens and free wifi. The resort is extremely popular in peak season (June-August) and Christmas time, so book well in advance if you are travelling at that time of the year.
There are many different villa configurations at Karma to suit different groups, tastes and budgets. Some have nicely enclosed courtyards with private pools, others boast partial ocean views. Villa configurations and number of bedrooms vary as well.

Some villas are one level, some two. Some have living room in a separate pavilion, some are configured as one house. So enquire about these details ahead and book a villa that is perfect for your family or group.

Crème de la crème of the resort are Grand Cliff Residences – The Lux Traveller favourites!

There are 3 of them and they are truly special.

Villa 10 (we were lucky to stay in this one) hangs on the edge of the cliff, has the most sensational ocean views and a true wet edge pool. A dream come true!

Villa itself is one level with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a spacious living room and a kitchen.

It spreads over 328 sq m – more than enough room for a big family!

Villa 10 is also well priced – the rates start from $1,660 per night plus 21% tax.

Other 2 Grand Cliff Residences are the ultimate in Balinese luxury! Villa Maria (822 sq m) is a 5 bedroom + 5 bathroom villa while Villa Asia (750 sq m) is 4 bedroom + 4 bathroom luxury residence.

No surprise they start from $5,650 per night plus taxes.

Villa Maria is owned by a Russian family hence the name (very romantic gift I imagine) and Villa Asia belongs to the owner of Air Asia, Tony Fernandes.

You surely will feel like a celebrity too staying in either of these spectacular residences!

Karma Beach Bali

Apart from my villa’s deck, Karma Beach Bali is my favourite place at the resort.

Taking an inclinator to the beach is an experience in itself – it is one of the prettiest views in Bali.

Karma Beach has 2 large beach cabanas (Lux Traveller’s favourite) and a lot of comfortable deck chairs.

Café Del Mar music gently caresses your senses while your body can be pampered in a beach-side spa area.
A long lunch best enjoyed with your feet in sand at one of the tables set up right here on the beach. Wood fired pizzas are excellent.
For the little ones, a nanny can be called in from the kids club (an hourly rate will apply) and adults can enjoy some ‘grown up’ time while the kids are building sand castles with a nanny.
A great day out!

Kids Club

Another great feature of the resort! Kids Club is open every day for the children aged 3 and up. Daily activities like baking, painting and hair braiding will keep them entertained for hours! Kids club services are complementary to resort guests.

Dining at Karma

Breakfast in Karma is very Australian – ‘eggs, bacon, fruit’ type menu.

Each small dish is priced separately and the bill could be quite expensive if your breakfast isn’t included. Try to book a rate with breakfast.

The view from the restaurant is stunning while the food quality can be improved.

Simple Mediterranean lunch (pizza & salad) at the beach club is great though.

The Lux Traveller Loves:

Villa 10 – Excellent family villa with the best views in Bali and world’s truest wet edge pool

Villa ‘Maria’ – Absolute Lux if you can afford it

Everything about the Karma Beach Bali – music, cabanas, long lunch, free waterspouts (kayaks, snorkelling equipment)

Monday Movie Night – sip a cocktail, enjoy complimentary popcorn and watch a movie at Karma Beach every Monday! Fabulous idea by the resort managers! They often have a family movie first, followed by an adult one.

The Lux Traveller Didn’t Like:

Interiors in some of the standard villas seem a little dated

Food and wine list need attention and spa services could be improved to come up to Bali Lux level.

All In All – Karma Kandara is an excellent resort in the best location. It is a perfect place to come with your family or friends to relax and bond with each other!

Karma Kandara – Thumbs Up! We’ll be back next year!

To Book your next holiday at Karma Kandara email res@karmaresorts.com or call +62 361 8482200