Padang Bai hotels and guesthouses guide
Padang Bai has many comfortable guesthouses
Travellers generally spend little time in Padang Bai, using it as a transit point to and from neighbouring Lombok, yet it has a wide range of accommodation and lots of rewarding activities such as diving and snorkelling. It is a very compact fishing village with most accommodation just a short stroll from its attractive beach. There are choices in all price ranges and although it has gone steadily upmarket in recent years, it is still perceived as a budget traveller’s haven.
Guest house competition is healthy and prices are excellent value. In fact it is one of the few places in Bali where you can still enjoy a breezy sea view from your window just metres from the beach for rp50,000 or less. Basic rooms with tiled bathrooms in small family run compounds are the standard choice in Padang Bai with some places also offering the option of air conditioning, TV and hot water.
Prices range from rp50,000 up to rp120,000. Some of the most attractive budget rooms can be found up on the hill at the back of the village which afford breezy ocean views and are generally set in larger grounds.
There are just a couple of luxury options but plenty of mid range accommodation. For around rp300,000 a night you will enjoy a spacious air conditioned room with TV and the use of a swimming pool. Low season discounting is commonplace and it is always worthwhile testing out your bargaining skills. See our comprehensive guide below of the best places to stay while in Padang Bai.
Recommended Padang Bai resorts and hotels
Kember Inn
Located just behind the beach road, this is a popular traveller’s guest house with a good range of rooms. There are basic fan rooms with cold water bathrooms and larger air con detached bungalows with TV and mini bar. Prices start at rp60,000 up to rp180,000 for a comfortable mid range a/c Room. A fabulous buffet breakfast is included and the staff pride themselves on being the most helpful around. A top choice. (Jalan Segara, Tel: +62 (0)363 41364)
Serangan Inn
Located on the hill overlooking the village, this laid back place features spotless bamboo furnished rooms with lots of traditional Balinese charm. Prices are rp80,000 for the fan rooms but the newer air con bungalows at the back are better value at rp275,000 and can comfortably sleep three persons. Other amenities include bicycle and snorkel rental, laundry service and a money changer. (Jalan Silayukti, Tel: +62 (0)363 41425)
Topi Inn
There are just five budget fan rooms here and due to its excellent reputation among budget travellers, they are often full. But the detached bungalows and all are nicely furnished, spotlessly clean and full of character. Prices are rp80,000 with full WiFi coverage throughout, live music and a great bakery and restaurant with home-cooked local and international favourites. (Jalan Silayukti 99, Tel: +62 (0)363 41424 topiinn@hotmail.com)
Mustika Sari
This is an excellent mid range choice with good value traditional Balinese cottages set around an inviting swimming pool. All have air conditioning and hot water bathrooms. Prices are rp400,000 a night. (Jalan Silayukti, Tel: +62 813 7536464)
Zen Inn
A ’boutique budget’ hotel featuring funky modern design, located close to the harbour. Rooms are large and airy and feature lovely open air bathrooms for rp150,000. There is WiFi coverage throughout and it has a lively bar and restaurant open until late with special offers such as a delicious all-you-can-eat seafood bbq for rp55,000. It offers lots of style and atmosphere for the money. (Jalan Segara, Tel: +62 (0)814 33092012)
Dharma Homestay
This place is a long time backpacker favourite with a pleasant rooftop lounge and popular traveller’s cafe. There are a total of 11 comfortably furnished single and double rooms with choice of fan or air conditioning for rp75,000 to rp200,000 per night. There is a lively traveller’s scene here and its a good place to socialise and get first hand advice from other backpackers. (Gang Tunkul no6, Jalan Silayukti, Tel: +62 (0)363 41394)
Bloo Lagoon Village
Upmarket eco resort located to the east of the village, right in front of the area’s best snorkeling reef. It offers modern three star creature comforts in 25 one and two bedroom villas, all with kitchens and lap pool. There is a spa, restaurant and bar onsite and decor throughout is bright and minimalist. Prices start at rp1 million a night. (Blue Lagoon Beach, Tel: +62 (0)363 4121)
