Our luxury babymoon at The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali.

Tucked beneath a lush canopy of frangipani trees and swaying coconut palms, The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali is the kind of place that seems conjured from a dream. This trip was particularly special—it was my first babymoon, and I was 16 weeks pregnant, seeking a blend of luxury, serenity, and a touch of adventure before welcoming our newest little traveller. Set on the quiet sands of Seminyak Beach, it redefines barefoot luxury with an effortless grace that only comes with time, tradition, and an unwavering attention to detail.

From the moment you step through the understated teakwood gates, a sense of calm washes over you. The world slows down here. The scent of incense drifts through the tropical breeze, mingling with the soft notes of the gamelan. Traditional Balinese stonework, hand-carved sculptures, and moss-draped temple shrines are seamlessly woven into the resort’s open-air layout, giving it the feel of a sacred hideaway rather than a hotel. And yet, The Oberoi offers all the hallmarks of a world-class resort — elevated dining, impeccable service, and luxurious villas that feel more like private sanctuaries than accommodations.

The property itself is remarkably intimate. With just 74 thatched-roof villas and lanai rooms, each designed with authentic Balinese architecture and rich natural textures, it never feels crowded. What makes The Oberoi especially unique is the sheer amount of land it occupies—an extraordinary 60,702 square metres of beachfront real estate in one of the island’s most desirable and bustling locations. Despite its central Seminyak address, the resort feels worlds away, embraced by lush tropical gardens and shaded pathways that create a true sense of escape. It even features a natural amphitheatre where traditional Balinese dance performances take place under the stars.

The lush tropical gardens are immaculately maintained, weaving a sense of calm and seclusion throughout the grounds. Winding stone pathways lead you past lily ponds and age-old statues cloaked in moss, creating a peaceful rhythm to daily life at the resort. Despite being in the heart of Seminyak, The Oberoi feels completely removed from the bustle—like a private oasis where time unfolds slowly and every corner invites reflection, relaxation, or a quiet moment of awe.

THE ACCOMMODATION

We were fortunate to stay in one of the Luxury Ocean View Villas (Villa 208, also known as ‘Hydrangea’), offering sweeping vistas of the Indian Ocean that greeted us each morning and lulled us to sleep at night. While our villa did not include a private pool, it was a haven of tranquility—filled with soft sea breezes, the sound of waves, and uninterrupted views of the horizon that felt endlessly expansive.

Unmistakable luxury and unrestricted ocean views defined our experience. These spacious residences are designed to make the most of a holiday in tropical Bali. The king-size bedroom opened onto a naturally lit bathroom with views into a private garden, and our favourite spot quickly became the al fresco dining pavilion nestled within the walled courtyard. Thatched roofs, natural materials, and authentic architectural details added the kind of understated elegance that leaves a lasting impression. Our villa also captured Bali’s iconic sunsets. Golden light bathed the space and the sun dipped into the ocean in a fiery farewell. The golden hour painted everything in hues of amber and rose, turning the villa into a glowing sanctuary.

As part of my work as a travel journalist, I was also given access to one of the resort’s Luxury Partial Ocean View Villa with Pool (Villa 211, also known as ‘Lantana’) for the day to create content. We were given permission to use the drone, which was quite a challenge given the thick canopy of trees—but Jason managed to skilfully manoeuvre it through, capturing some truly magical angles. This villa was tucked deeper within the lush resort grounds and offered an entirely different experience. Its oversized pool was framed by towering, jungle-like trees that gave off strong Angkor Wat vibes—mysterious, majestic, and almost cinematic. The setting felt like a hidden sanctuary, enveloped in greenery and steeped in serene grandeur with softer sounds of the ocean due to its partial views. It’s also a fantastic choice for families with children or guests who are more sun-conscious, thanks to the abundance of shady corners around the pool that offer the perfect place to cool off and relax.

What truly elevates The Oberoi experience, though, is the service. It’s not simply five-star; it’s intuitive, warm, and deeply personal. Every staff member, from the gardener to the general manager, greets you with genuine warmth and an open heart. Little touches—fresh-cut hibiscus on your pillow, hand-written notes, bespoke cocktails crafted just to your taste—create a sense of being exquisitely cared for. The kind of care that doesn’t need to announce itself, because it’s simply a way of being.

THE RESTAURANTS

Dining at The Oberoi is a journey in itself. All meals are served à la carte, allowing each guest to tailor their dining experience to their mood and palate. At Kura Kura, the resort’s signature fine-dining restaurant, candlelit tables are set beneath open-air pavilions overlooking koi-filled lotus ponds. Here, modern interpretations of Indonesian classics like Rendang and Sate Lilit are paired with an exceptional international wine list. Every dish is a masterpiece—balanced, refined, and full of soul. We had some of the most memorable meals of our entire trip here. The flavors were bold yet nuanced, and the presentation was as beautiful as the surroundings. Even casual dishes felt elevated: sambals made fresh to order, vegetables picked at their peak, and seafood that tasted like it had just been pulled from the sea that morning.

Our favourite dish? The perfectly crisp fish and chips served poolside for lunch by the main pool—a comforting classic executed with finesse, best enjoyed with a chilled drink and the sound of water lapping gently in the background. Another standout was the spaghetti bolognese we ordered for our three-year-old son, Ryder. It was so delicious that he asked for it at every meal—and even after we checked out, he was still talking about it. A testament to the kind of cuisine that delights every age, every palate.

Meanwhile, breakfast at the oceanfront Frangipani Café is a serene ritual. Think fresh tropical fruit, artisanal pastries, and organic eggs prepared any way you like—all served as waves crash rhythmically in the background. That serenity was only broken for a moment when Ryder, fuelled by pancake and waffle energy, ran fully clothed into the nearby sprinklers and proceeded to play under them for the entire breakfast. I tried to coax him out, but in the end, I decided to let him enjoy the moment. This boy loves a water feature of any kind, and honestly, watching him laugh and play in the morning sun only added to the magic.

THE SUNSETS (AND BEACH)

And then there’s the beach. One of The Oberoi’s most exceptional features is its direct beach access to some of the most spectacular sunsets in all of Bali—where the sun melts into the horizon in a blaze of color every evening. Unlike the crowded, Instagram-frenzied shores elsewhere in Seminyak, the stretch in front of The Oberoi is quiet, refined, and almost meditative. Complimentary loungers are spaced far apart, and attendants appear with chilled towels and ginger-lime spritzers just when you need them. Sunset here is a sacred event: lanterns flicker to life, the sky ignites in pink and fire, and the world seems to stand still for a moment.

THE SPA

While I didn’t get the chance to experience the spa this time—my days were blissfully spent splashing in the pool with Ryder—I still couldn’t help but admire the serene beauty of the space. Housed in traditional open-air pavilions, each treatment room is surrounded by its own private pond, offering a tranquil retreat for mind and body. People rave about the Balinese Harmony ritual—a blend of massage, energy work, and herbal therapy that leaves you in a blissful, otherworldly daze. Next time, the spa will be my first stop—and with our new baby boy, Cole, joining us on our return visit, I’ll be sure to book a nanny so I can fully indulge in a few hours of uninterrupted relaxation. Until then, I’ll be dreaming of that warm ginger tea served post-treatment in a quiet garden corner, with nothing but birdsong and temple bells in the background.

THE CULTURE

For those who seek immersion, the resort offers curated cultural experiences like Balinese cooking classes, temple ceremonies, and traditional dance performances. These are not tourist gimmicks but deeply respectful encounters led by local artisans and elders.

The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali is more than just a place to stay—it’s a rarefied experience of timeless beauty, soulful service, and profound serenity. It doesn’t shout luxury; it whispers it through thoughtful design, evocative details, and the gentle smiles of those who welcome you home, again and again.

For the discerning traveller who craves authenticity wrapped in elegance, The Oberoi is a true sanctuary—a place where every sunrise feels like a secret, and every moment is steeped in magic.

HOW TO GET THERE:

Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar), Bali’s main international hub. The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali is just a 25-minute drive from the airport. The resort can arrange a private luxury transfer, which is highly recommended for a seamless and comfortable arrival. Alternatively, taxis and rideshare options are available, but nothing beats the welcome of a chilled towel, bottled water, and the calm efficiency of an Oberoi driver. Once you arrive, everything slows down—and paradise begins.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE OBEROI BEACH RESORT, BALI

Is The Oberoi Bali good for families with young children?
Yes! With spacious villas, beachfront access, and shady pool areas, it’s ideal for little ones.

Is The Oberoi a good resort for a babymoon?
Absolutely. It offers a serene, elegant setting perfect for expecting parents.

Does The Oberoi Bali offer private pool villas?
Yes, several villas include oversized private pools set in lush, secluded courtyards.

Where is The Oberoi located in Bali?
The Oberoi Beach Resort is located on Seminyak Beach, one of Bali’s most vibrant yet luxurious areas.

What makes The Oberoi unique compared to other Bali resorts?
Its expansive beachfront property, lush gardens, heritage design, and personalised service create a rare blend of elegance and authenticity.

Which villa did you stay in?
We stayed in Villa 208, a Luxury Ocean View Villa affectionately known as ‘Hydrangea.’ It offered sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, a private walled garden, and the perfect spot to enjoy Bali’s legendary sunsets.

Which villa did you have access to for content creation?
Villa 211, a Luxury Partial Ocean View Villa with Pool, also known as ‘Lantana.’ This beautifully shaded villa is tucked within the resort’s lush gardens and features a private pool, making it perfect for families and content creation alike.

Does The Oberoi Bali get sunrise or sunset views?
The Oberoi is perfectly positioned for sunset. Located right on Seminyak Beach, the resort faces west, offering uninterrupted views of the sun dipping into the Indian Ocean each evening—a magical highlight of any stay.