The star system is often a good method for rating hotels, until it’s not. And in the case of The Korawai in Uluwatu, the star rating system misses the mark somewhat.
This collection of jungle cabins along the shoreline is incredibly photogenic and without a doubt one of the most striking venues on the island.
So, our team was curious to find out if staying in these exciting spaces was as much fun as photographing them, and this is what they discovered at The Korowai, Uluwatu, Bali.
Our In-Depth Assessment Of The Korowai
Every review on this website follows a certain protocol, using a defined set of assessment criteria that allows fairness to the properties we review, and a standard format that helps our readers easily compare hotels.
Hotel Type: Luxury Hotel
Area of Bali: Uluwatu
Star Rating: 3- Star
Typical Minimum Price per Night: 4,800,000 IDR (approx. $300 USD or $480 AUD) per night, with the understanding that prices change seasonally and with the room type
The Korowai Address: Jl. Tj. Simah, Pecatu, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
The Korowai Website: The Korawai
Room Types: Suite with Sea View, Suite with Balcony, Suite with Private Pool, Deluxe Suite with Sea View, Family Suite
Facilities: Shuttle Service, Room Service, Wellness Services, Restaurant, Cafe, Sun Terrace, In-Room Dining
This hotel was one of our top picks in Uluwatu.
Cleanliness and Maintenance
We were actually pleasantly surprised with just how clean and well-maintained this resort is, given that it’s a 3-star resort, we felt we would easily catch them out with missed spots, etc. but we couldn’t find anything. Great work.
Sleep Quality
Unless you’re really unlucky and have super noisy neighbours, this area is very quiet, and the only sound you may hear as you nod off to sleep will be the ocean waves.
We liked the beds, they were more than comfortable enough and the rooms don’t leak light in the mornings.
Staff Attitude And Service Culture
The staff here are excellent, while they’re not quite 5-star hotel equivalent, they are very, very good and will ensure you are well taken care of throughout your stay.
We like that they have been empowered to deal with issues as they arise, too, rather than having to seek management approval for every little thing.
Check-in/Check-out Experience
This isn’t a huge resort, and the very standard check-in and check-out experience will see you in your room in no time.
Bathroom Quality & Functionality
The bathrooms are OK, with decent toiletries and towels. They’re not the biggest bathrooms we’ve ever seen, and the water pressure is only OK.
Value For Money
For a 3-star hotel, this is pretty expensive, but the design and location make it worth the money; it’s not exceptional value, but it’s just fine all the same.
Food And Beverage Execution
We doubt anyone would come to this hotel just for the food and drinks, but there’s more than good enough for someone staying here.
It’s all tasty, hearty fare, and the drinks are strong and ideal for unwinding in the Bali heat.
Location & Immediate Surroundings
This is a very attractive and safe location, but there’s nothing within walking distance of this hotel, really, and you will need transportation.
It’s also a poor area for exploring much of the rest of Bali, given the long traffic jams into and off the Bukit Peninsula.
Facilities & Amenities Vs Promise
The facilities are all as advertised and in pretty decent condition, but overall, there just aren’t very many of them.
Bring books and games if you want some quiet time, or just hit the pool and the bar and have a few cold ones and make some friends, instead.
Overall “Personality”
Jungle huts and ocean views mean that you’re guaranteed to remember this place for years to come. Sure, it may not have a huge range of things to do, but that doesn’t matter.
There’s no doubt that it has its own personality and memorable vibe that will have your mates back home dying in envy at your Instagram feed when you get back.
Summary: Our Overview Of The Korowai
The look and feel of this hotel is completely unique, and there’s no doubt that, as long as you’re happy with the view and don’t need a huge amount of amenities from your hotel, this is a great place to stay.
We like the adults-only vibe; it helps to ensure you can meet new people and enjoy each other’s company in the bar and by the pool.
Overall, if you think you’re going to like The Korowai, book it, because you almost certainly will like it.
Grading: Very Good/Happy to Return
You might also want to check out Hidden Hills Villas or Karma Kandara, both of which are also in Uluwatu.
FAQs
Is The Korowai family-friendly?
No, The Korowai is most definitely not a family-friendly property. It is one of a growing number of properties in Bali that are designated for adults only.
There’s nothing seedy about this; Indonesian law wouldn’t allow it. It’s simply a hotel with the intention of creating a child-free space for adults to relax without the sound of kids running around.
So, if you have a family, the good news is that Uluwatu has plenty of family-friendly options, but The Korowai isn’t one of them.
Final Thoughts On The Korowai
The Korowai is one of those impressive properties that shows that star ratings aren’t the only thing that matters when you choose a hotel.
Sure, it’s not swamped with ameneties but you don’t come here to be entertained, you come to enjoy the beautiful natural setting, the semi-private beach access and the adult-friendly environment.
Yes, it’s a little pricey for a 3-star hotel, but we think it’s worth it, and if you’re in their target audience, we’d be happy to recommend staying here for a few nights.
