Masa Inn

Masa Inn is a family-run hotel set amid a fairly large Balinese compound with traditional architecture and details found throughout the property. The spacious grounds are lined with tall trees, lawns, tropical greenery, and plenty of common areas. The sense of openness and space at Masa Inn is something rare in downtown Kuta, as the area is so heavily developed. That feat alone helps make this a popular spot. However, features are slim and limited to a couple pools. Additionally, decor is dated and tired. The vibe is laid-back and family-friendly, though, making this a perennially popular place for all types of travelers. The hotel's prime location and affordable rates also make it popular choice for partygoers in town for Kuta's wild nightlife scene. Even so, Masa Inn manages to stay relatively free of the rowdy goings on at other budget crash pads in this part of town.

Masa Inn is located along bustling Poppies Lane 1, which is lined with shops, money changers, restaurants, and bars. The location is strategic, with Kuta Beach just a five-minute walk from the hotel and Jalan Legian less than 10 minutes away in the opposite direction. There are plenty of vendors along the beach offering surf lessons and board rentals, and the area is good for novice surfers. The hotel's setting near Jalan Legian also means that Bali's largest and wildest nightclubs are close at hand, as well as some great dining and shopping options. Waterbom Bali and Discovery Shopping Mall take around 20 minutes to reach on foot, or five to 10 minutes in a taxi. The airport is about a 25-minute drive away, though traffic in this part of Bali is often terrible, so drive times will vary.

The rooms at Masa Inn are affordably priced, spacious, and -- for the most part -- clean and tidy. There are a few different room types available, including family-friendly rooms that can fit up to four people. Most units feature pool views and roomy balconies with seating. Interiors are plain and tired, with plywood drop-tile ceilings and old-school wooden furniture. Beds are firm and dressed in dated bedspreads that look especially old when paired with the unintentionally retro artwork that hangs on the walls. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, small tube TVs, free Wi-Fi, telephones, safes, and mini-fridges. There are no coffee- or tea-making facilities in the rooms. Bathrooms are cramped, but mostly clean, and feature hot water, shower/tub combos, and small wall-mounted sinks. Toiletries and hairdryers aren't provided, but towels are. Most of the rooms are fairly quiet, and the noise from the nearby nightclubs isn't much of a problem here.

Masa Inn has plenty of space and common areas, but extras are otherwise slim. The two large pools are a hub of activity throughout the day. Both have shallow kids' sections, but guests should note that there are no lifeguards on duty. The larger of the two pools is located in the back of the hotel and is a great size for laps. Sekar Sandat Restaurant includes plenty of indoor seating, as well as an alfresco dining area by the garden. However, it's only open for breakfast and the hotel doesn't offer room service. Most room packages include breakfast, which is served a la carte. Both Western and Asian breakfast options are available, though the selection is limited. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.