Nusa Dua feels like Bali at its most refined. Meaning ‘Two Islands’, this premier resort enclave on the island’s southeastern tip is known for its five-star luxury and pristine coastline. It’s a world away from the buzz and chaos of areas such as Kuta and Canggu, appealing instead to travellers looking for a quieter, more resort-focused Bali experience.
Holiday Inn Resort Bali Nusa Dua
Situated in Tanjung Benoa, near the edge of the Nusa Dua tourism complex, the Holiday Inn Resort Bali Nusa Dua delivers the best of both worlds: the serene exclusivity of Nusa Dua coupled with easy access to the vibrant water sports hub of Tanjung Benoa. Set directly on the beachfront, the resort opens onto a reef-protected lagoon where the water is noticeably calmer than on Bali’s west coast, making it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding or simply floating in the warm Indian Ocean.
Entrance loby
The resort has 171 guest rooms and suites, many of which have stunning views of the ocean. Rooms are spacious and well-designed, and there are themed family suites and adjoining rooms for families.
Our suite
We shared two interconnecting premium oceanfront rooms with our son, both with balconies overlooking the swimming pools, beach and ocean beyond.
Our balcony
It was blissful to start the day there with a mug of coffee, watching the spectacular sunrises as the day began.
Sunrise from our balcony
As with all Holiday Inn properties, the hotel has a “Kids Stay and Eat Free” programme for those travelling with children aged 12 and under. The kids’ club and swimming pool will keep the kids entertained, giving parents a welcome break, while the indoor Games Zone has a variety of other activities for the whole family including table tennis, soccer pool, and darts.
Kids' club
Adults can choose between two infinity swimming pools, an atrium pool and a jacuzzi. Beyond the pools, the beachfront itself is a playground for water sports enthusiasts, with options ranging from jet skiing and parasailing to boating and snorkelling. If you prefer to take it easy, the beach is great for long, lazy hours spent reading and sunbathing, with sun loungers dotted along the shoreline beneath shaded umbrellas and gently swaying palms.
Outdoor swimming pools
For those in need of further relaxation, the Tea Tree Spa is the ideal retreat. The fitness centre, meanwhile, is well equipped for guests who prefer to stay active, though the beachfront jogging and cycling paths of Nusa Dua are equally tempting for early morning exercise.
Breakfast Buffet at Pasar Market Cafe
Pasar Market Café offers casual dining at Holiday Inn Bali Nusa Dua. We enjoyed an extensive breakfast buffet there that covered everything from Western classics to local Balinese favourites and food carts serving Indian street food.
Nudi Beach Bar & Restaurant
Later, we took advantage of the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service to visit the Bali Collection, Nusa Dua’s shopping and dining complex, where we spent a leisurely morning window-shopping and indulging in ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery.
Butterfly pea drinks at Duke's Lounge
When it was time to bid farewell to Bali, Ngurah Rai International Airport was just a 20-minute drive away, which was quite convenient as we had an early morning flight to catch.
Nusa Dua Beach
I knew that Bali was popular with fellow South Africans, but I didn’t realise quite to what extent until I visited Holiday Inn Resort Bali Nusa Dua. Familiar accents drifting across the pool deck and casual chats at breakfast quickly revealed that this corner of Bali is a firm favourite with South African travellers. Perhaps it’s the combination of direct beachfront access, affordable comfort and a relaxed atmosphere that feels instantly familiar, or the ease with which Bali delivers both value and escapism.
Whatever the reason, the resort feels like a natural fit—far enough from home to feel like a true holiday, yet comfortable and welcoming in a way that resonates with those seeking a family-friendly beachfront escape. Of course, the resort also attracts guests from a wide range of other countries.
For more information, visit Holiday Inn Resort Bali Nusa Dua or book here.
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Disclosure: 7
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 53 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
I don't often associated Holiday Inn's with full scale resorts, but the Holiday Inn Resort Bali Nusa Dua may change that for me. The location looks ideal, with its proximity to the beach and to the airport for early flights.