Blue Point Bay Villas & Spa

This resort -- a small property with a pleasantly modern style -- has one of the most picturesque settings in southern Bali, and the sunset views from the hotel's position atop cliffs over the Indian Ocean make for some spectacular sunset views. The grounds are lush with tropical plants and flowers, and those ocean views can be had from many vantages throughout the property. Guests check in at the high-ceilinged, open-air lobby with huge columns in the middle and views of the ocean in the back. The marble floors and wooden pillars holding up the pagoda-style roof add a touch of class and local flavor. The long front desk is off to one side, and the other side -- with chairs, ottomans, and upholstered benches -- provides a gathering area for guests. The area is often busy with travelers checking in and out. Most of those who stay here are couples -- drawn by the romantic setting -- or groups of young travelers, but families and a few solo travelers also their way to the resort as well.

This hotel is perched atop some low cliffs overlooking Blue Point Beach in southern Bali's Uluwatu area, which is known for its beautiful beaches and seaside landscapes. It's a remote location -- about a 45-minute drive from party-hard Kuta -- and best for those who aren't looking for tons of wild nightlife. Next door is the famed Single Fin bar, cafe, and surf shop. The hotel doesn't sit directly on the beach, and to get there, guests need to walk down the hill -- it's about five minutes on foot. The ancient Uluwatu Temple is a 10-minute drive from the hotel, and the hotel provides free shuttle service for guests. Guests can reach the Padang Padang Surf Camp in about 10 minutes by car, and there's also free shuttle service to Padang Padang Beach. Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is about a 30 minutes away by car. Ngurah Rai International Airport is about 45 minutes away by car.

The Blue Point Bay Villas & Spa has 86 rooms and villas, many of which come with private pools. Decor is pleasant, with a gold, brown, and cream color scheme complementing marble tile floors. The look is a generically modern take on traditional Balinese design, with dark wood veneer furniture that has clean lines. Local flourishes come in Balinese artwork and etched mirrors. However, design isn't always fresh -- those etched mirrors, for example -- and we did spot a bit of wear on the furniture when we visited.

Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, safes, free Wi-Fi, and electric kettles for tea and coffee. Deluxe Rooms are the smallest, but they're still spacious and include small furnished outdoor areas, although many of these don't have the nicest views. Junior Suites are on the higher floors, and they have balconies facing the sea. Villas are more luxurious and spacious. The two-story Presidential Villa, which can accommodate groups and families, has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a living and dining area. It also includes a private infinity plunge pool and gazebo overlooking the ocean. Cushioned lounge chairs with and an umbrella allow guests to take it all in. Designed for romance, the Honeymoon Villa also offers a gorgeous outdoor space with a gazebo and private pool as well. 

Bathrooms are separated from the sleeping areas by frosted glass walls, which might impede privacy for some. These are modern, and have big windows looking out on the courtyard. They include soaking tubs with hand-held showers, vessel sinks, and toiletries. Many villas have separate showers and tubs.

The hotel knows that most guests are drawn here due to its spectacular cliff-top setting next to the Indian Ocean. With that in mind, many of its features capitalize on those west-facing views. The open-air Blue Terrace restaurant offers gorgeous views of the ocean, and it can be reserved for private events. The Suluban Coffee Shop, an open-air space by the pool and gardens, serves casual lunches and dinners. Guests can dine under the high-pitched roof or in the open air next to the pool. Breakfast is included in the hotel's rates and offerings range from Indonesian fare to Western dishes. 

The property has three outdoor pools, including the Sunset Main Pool that is open to outside guests and can also can be reserved for special events such as weddings. It's a lovely setting, with an infinity edge pool overlooking the ocean, but camera-toting non-guests may disrupt the vibe for some. Blue-cushioned lounge chairs and umbrellas line the stone deck. When Oyster visited in August 2015, construction was underway next door, which mar the otherwise pristine view. Other pools include the family-friendly Top Pool, in a garden setting with a kids' pool and small slide, and the Natural Pool, also set in the gardens. The Olive Spa offers a variety of massage, face, and body treatments, as well as hydrotherapy. 

A lovely on-site chapel by the sea is a picturesque setting for weddings and is especially beautiful at sunset. Several wedding packages are available, and the hotel can become crowded with wedding guests at times. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout and the hotel operates a free shuttle to various local destinations. Keep in mind that only one trip per day is made, space is limited, and the shuttle does not include return service.