Here’s why Bali insiders love Umalas, a charming village near Canggu and Seminyak that’s on the up.
Everyone who has visited Bali is surely familiar with Seminyak and Canggu. Now it’s time to get acquainted with Umalas — a quaint village conveniently located between these two popular neighbourhoods.
Bali insiders have christened this idyllic village as the next place to be, thanks to the perfect combination of rural charm and urban chic. Umalas is nestled among rice fields, while also being home to a growing number of cafés, restaurants, organic grocers and lifestyle venues.
Excited to learn more? We’re sharing our insider tips for you to enjoy the best of this up-and-coming enclave from day to night.
Stay: Umalas Creek
This brand-new estate, part of The Luxe Nomad’s exclusive collection, is the ideal base to enjoy the best of Umalas. It features 11 modern minimalist villas, each furnished with European appliances and cosy interiors to create the perfect getaway. You’ll have your own private pool and garden, while having access to the shared sauna, ice bath, hot tub and 20m-long main pool. Plus, each ensuite bedroom comes with its own Dyson hairdryer and spacious dressing room.
Choose from a variety of standalone villas at Umalas Creek to suit your holiday style, whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with family and friends. The villa types range from the one-bedroom units with a SoHo-style mezzanine bedroom and the spacious two-bedroom houses to and the beautiful three-bedroom villa that’s the crown jewel of the estate.
Breakfast and Brunch: 7am Bakers Club
Stock your pantry with eco-conscious produce sourced from local farmers at this wellness-driven store, which has locations in both Umalas and Canggu. Aside from its selection of homegrown products, it also carries supplements, herbal remedies, baked goods as well as healthy takeaway meals.
Local Lunch: Warung Dua
Tap on the glass-front display to choose your flavours: the Italian-owned Warung Dua offers international and local recipes presented in Nasi Campur style. Pick from three kinds of rice and sides that include salads, beef rendang, chicken, vegetables and Indian naan. Alternatively, order a la carte portions of barbecued meats, seafood and fish.
Game, Set, Match: Liga Tennis Umalas
Unleash your competitive side at this high-end sports centre in Umalas, which has five professional ITF-standard tennis courts, three padel courts, a squash court as well as a basketball court. Avoid the heat of the day by playing in the early morning or late afternoon.
Sip and Snack: Satoshi
Led by chef Igor Grishechkin, this uber stylish venue combines Italian and Japanese izakaya influences in its menu. The interiors are just as chic, pairing minimalist Japanese elements with a music library lined with shelves of vinyl records. It’s perfect for an aperitivo, but we won’t blame you if you hang out here all night.
Fun All Night: Tacos Acqui
This low-key taqueria is all about the fun and none of the fuss. Open daily from 12am to late, this Mexican-style venue serves mouthwatering tacos and fabulous drinks, and hosts live music nights in a colourfully cosy venue designed by homegrown firm Myshrine Studios.
Think Greek: Pantarei Restaurant and Bar
Serving authentic Greek specialities in a convivial ambience, Pantarei boasts gorgeous interiors, regular live music and dishes like tender grilled octopus, tasty souvlaki rolls or lip-smacking kebabs. It’s a great option for group dining, with a menu featuring Greek-style barbecued favourites, as well as freshly prepared salads and meze dishes.