Nusa Dua is often the first area people consider in Bali for a family holiday. It’s a purpose-built resort town on the Bukit Peninsula in the South of the island. And it delivers what many folks quietly crave for their holidays.
It offers peace and calm, reef-protected white-sand beaches with gentle waves, spacious brand-name five-star hotel properties and resorts that treat children as their most valued guests rather than as afterthoughts.
Unlike some of the busier parts of Bali, Nusa Dua always feels secure, and the big resorts here are very walkable, though the area itself is quite spread out. It’s meant for long, low-stress days by the pool, playing on the beach as a family and easy, enjoyable first-rate dining.
Of course, this does come at a price, and Nusa Dua is not the most budget-friendly part of the island. However, the best family-friendly hotels in this area share key strengths that make them very appealing to parents.
They will have multiple pools (most with dedicated kids’ pools and waterslides too), supervised kids’ clubs with highly trained staff that provide a safe environment for fun, cultural and creative activities; they can deliver spacious rooms with connecting options, free cribs and high chairs as needed, children’s menus and staff that understand what it’s like to travel with little ones.
We’ve also found most properties in Nusa Dua have babysitting services, some have teen zones, and they all have access to water sports activities so that older kids can have fun while the younger ones splash around in the pool.
So, here are our choices for the best family-friendly hotels and resorts in Nusa Dua, based on our own experiences and consistent parent reviews, excellent kids’ facilities, beach access (or at the very least proximity) and overall value for family trips.
The Best 10 Family-Friendly Resorts In Nusa Dua
Hilton Bali Resort
Hilton Bali Resort is the kind of place that families will remember for a lifetime; it’s a truly exceptional place with stunning cliffside views that are the envy of all other resorts in Nusa Dua.
The family facilities here are next level and truly high-energy, and the beachfront setting is the perfect place to enjoy them from.
We love their four interconnected pools, which include a sand lagoon and an absolutely crazy 30-meter waterslide that seems to appeal to children of all ages.
The Jungle Kids Club has an awesome outdoor playground and incorporates a very nice climbing wall, trampoline, tree houses, an indoor play area, a Game Cave (aimed firmly at teens and even tweens) that has video games, mini-bowling and board games.
We can’t imagine a scenario where your kids are likely to get bored here.
The rooms are good too, and the family rooms can incorporate bunk beds and other child-friendly amenities if you arrange them when you book.
The beachfront is not “private” (there’s no such thing, by law, in Bali) but it’s as close as you can reasonably get and it’s brilliant for water sports and casual play.
The hotel layout is ideal for parents who want to relax while their children play in supervised spaces. It’s very good for multi-generational families too, where active outdoor activities and kids’ supervised programming is vital.
Address: Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Website: Hilton Bali Resort
Our Rating: 44/50
Our Review: A Landmark Hotel With Cliffside Views
The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua
As you might expect from a hotel bearing this name, it’s all about the lagoon pools at this resort, and they are some of the largest in Bali.
It’s also on one of the best stretches of the Nusa Dua coastline, and the sand is very pleasant underfoot here.
The overall setting at The Laguna is open and luxurious; it ought to appeal to families with young kids but also those with teenagers. There’s plenty of room to capture some great Instagram shots and make their friends jealous.
On the practical side of things, they offer free cribs if needed, and they have kids’ pools to ensure safe swimming for everyone.
The vibe here is very much a fine balance between a polished resort and more of a casual, informal, family-friendly spot.
We find that parents love all the available space and the quality of the beach, particularly if there are other generations of the family around.
We should also note that there are some great neighbouring facilities that are open to kids, which can help extend the value of staying here.
If you want a holiday focused on pool time and beaches rather than hectic kids’ club schedules, this is a solid pick.
Address: Kawasan Pariwisata, Jl. Nusa Dua No.2 Lot N, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80363, Indonesia
Website: The Laguna Resort
Our Rating: 44/50
Our Review: A Newly Renovated Classic
The Apurva Kempinski Bali
There’s no such thing as a 7-star resort in Bali, but if there were, they say that The Apurva Kempinski might seize the title.
This is a gorgeous and truly sprawling resort on the cliffside, with amazing architecture and views that still manages to cater to families with the right execution.
They have plenty of pools, very spacious family rooms and a kids’ club to ensure that all the essentials are taken care of.
There’s even an in-house beach club, which saves you from having to travel very far if you want that kind of chilled-out, luxury experience by the sea.
Older kids and particularly teenagers will appreciate the drama of this setting; younger kids will find the practical facilities here to be delightful.
We’d recommend this place to anyone who is interested in it, but it’s a fabulous choice if you have a multi-generational family trip planned.
Address: Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan No.4, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Website: Apurva Kempinski
Our Rating: 42/50
Our Review: Apurva Kempinski Review
Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort
The Sofitel wins plaudits for its first-class kids’ club and very family-oriented atmosphere. The beachfront location here is excellent, and when combined with multiple pools, there are endless opportunities for splashing around.
They also have some of the best supervised activities on the island, and that includes both creative sessions and evening options (something that most resorts can’t provide), which helps to deliver a reliably fun environment for the kids.
Our team thought the kids’ club staff were really attentive and highly qualified, and it was super convenient to have everything you need on one site.
It’s a place that will appeal to those seeking French-inspired luxury combined with beach access and solid kids’ facilities in Nusa Dua.
Address: ITDC Tourism Complex, Jl. Nusa Dua Lot N5, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80363, Indonesia
Website: Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua
Our Rating: 40/50
Our Review: Family Beachfront Fun
Grand Hyatt Bali
This is a very strong family resort in Nusa Dua, and it might be the best for people with kids between the ages of 3 and 12. It’s situated across some lovely tropical gardens with five swimming pools and 2 waterslides (one of which is 50 meters long!). There are also some nice shallow toddler areas and grassy banks for easy supervision.
Their Oceania Kids Club (ages 4-12; there’s a separate Toddler Club too) has plenty of daily programs that include everything from scavenger hunts to bunny feeding. Each guest gets some hours at the kids’ club comped, and additional time is very reasonably priced.
The huge beachfront here (nearly 700 meters) is perfect for building sandcastles or paddling in the light waves.
What we loved the most, though, was the family rooms, which have a choice of pirate or under-the-sea themes.
Sure, there are parts of this place that are showing signs of wear and tear, but the sheer scale of this resort means that you won’t ever feel compelled to leave or like you’ve seen it all.
Address: Kawasan Wisata Nusa Dua ITDC, Benoa, South Kuta, Bali, 80363, Indonesia
Website: Grand Hyatt Bali
Our Rating: 38/50
Our Review: A Dizzying Array of Room Choices
Conrad Bali
This recently renovated resort offers modern rooms and a touch of a lagoon pool to deliver a lovely setting for a family vacation.
The biggest lagoon pool winds through the hotel’s gardens and delivers sandy play areas so your kids can build sand castles by the pool. The main pool is open later in the evening too, so you can even swim after dinner.
The free Kura Kura Kids Club provides cultural activities, kit making, junior yoga and much more. And they offer the option of connecting rooms with thoughtful touches such as welcome gelato vouchers and child-friendly toiletries.
Conrad Bali Address: Jl. Pratama No.168, Tanjung, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80363
Conrad Bali Website: Hilton
Our Rating: 38/50
Our Review: An Absolute Beast Of A Family-Resort
Melia Bali (and Paradisus by Melia Bali)
The Melia Bali and its sister property (Paradisus) have extensive grounds, beachfront access, and dedicated kids’ clubs that deliver age-grouped activities and workshops.
They each have multiple pools, tropical gardens, and a range of dining venues to help support resort living all day, every day.
Their cultural and recreational programs are perfect for keeping the kids busy while mum and dad sneak off to the spa or just lie on the beach and enjoy the sunshine.
Address: Kawasan Pariwisata ITDC Lot N1, Bali, 80363, Indonesia
Website: Paradisus Melia
Our Rating: TBC
Our Review: Coming Soon
Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa – A Handwritten Collection
They have three pools at this delightful beachfront resort, including a kids’ pool. It’s a more culturally rooted spot than most other places in Nusa Dua.
If you want your children to enjoy authentic Balinese activities, then you can’t go wrong with this place and it has direct beach access.
Address: Kawasan Pariwisata, Nusa Dua Lot, Jl. Nusa Dua North 4, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Website: Nusa Dua Hotel
Our Rating: TBC
Our Review: Coming Soon
The Westin Resort Nusa Dua
The Westin is a top pick of Australian and international families thanks to the large lagoon-style pool, waterslide, bridges, waterfalls and kids’ areas.
There is an adults-only pool too, if you want to get in some lengths while the children use the Westin Family Kids’ Club which is famous throughout Bali for its quality service.
This hotel even has a Kids’ Spa with mini-treatments, a Teen Zone for older children and an Eat Well Menu for children.
Address: Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua, BTDC Lot N-3, Jl. Kw. Nusa Dua Resort, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Website: The Westin Nusa Dua
Our Rating: TBC
Our Review: Coming Soon
Courtyard By Marriott Bali Nusa Dua Resort
This is a more affordable option than most in Nusa Dua, but that doesn’t mean going without; they have five outdoor pools, a lazy river, beachfront access and a kids’ club!
It’s a great spot for family comfort, and has plenty of options for connecting rooms and other practical amenities.
Address: Kawasan Pariwisata Jalan Nusa Dua Lot SW1, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Bali, 80363
Website: Marriott
Our Rating: TBC
Our Review: Coming Soon
Practical Tips For Families That Visit Nusa Dua
There are a few things you should prepare for before you visit Nusa Dua to ensure you have the best possible experience, but you shouldn’t worry too much either. One of the joys of staying in an upmarket area like this is that there’s always plenty of help on hand if you need it.
The beaches here are generally pretty calm, and that means they’re very good for younger kids, though there’s no surfing here as a consequence of the reef-protected shoreline.
The resorts in this part of Bali quite often provide free hotel-to-airport transfers or can arrange them for a fee, and they can be super handy if you have lots of luggage and younger children, even if it costs more than a ride-share from the airport. There’s no beating convenience to make your life easier on a family holiday.
Many of the resorts here also offer free stays and/or meals for children under certain ages. It’s vital to confirm exactly what’s included and what’s not before you book. Otherwise, you can be in for a nasty shock when you check in or check out.
It’s absolutely vital to book kids’ club places and babysitting services in advance during the high season.
You can find Bali National Golf Club in this area, and there’s also a small mall in the form of the Bali Collection.
We strongly recommend you take reef-safe sunscreen, hats and cover-ups. The Bali sun can be brutal if you’re not used to it.
While the resorts in this area tend to have amazing kids’ menus that make your children feel at home, it helps to bring some snacks and drinks from home to smooth the transition.
If you want to see more of Bali from Nusa Dua, it’s best to engage a private car and driver. This can be done very cheaply.
FAQs
Is Nusa Dua A Good Destination For A Family Holiday?
Yes, as long as you can afford it, Nusa Dua is an excellent place to have a family holiday in Bali. The white sand beaches are very visually appealing, and the area’s luxury resorts are all about ensuring you have a very comfortable time of things while you’re there.
It might be a bit more expensive than Canggu, Seminyak or Ubud, but the extra investment means you get the assurance of an international brand name on the hotel and the service promise that comes with it.
Each resort in this part of Bali tends to have an endless amount of things for kids to do on-site, and many families barely leave their hotels during their stay, given that there are also spas, gyms, bars, restaurants, etc. at these places too; it’s like staying in a luxury village.
It’s also a great part of the island to be certain that your hotel will offer babysitting services, childcare services, a kids’ club, etc., and that means parents can usually find some “me time”, while their children are being greatly entertained.
Most of all, staff here tend to be very well trained, and anyone who is directly responsible for children will be highly professional.
Is Nusa Dua Safe?
We must stress that all of Bali is safe, and most visitors will find any spot on the island to be, at least, as safe as where they come from, if not more so.
However, Nusa Dua is especially safe. The town was purposely constructed to house families in high-end resorts. It was understood from the outset that this meant creating a place where they could feel safe.
The resorts themselves all have dedicated security teams and constant CCTV coverage to ensure that their sprawling campuses are completely safe.
And because the area itself is quite spread out and it’s not all that practical to walk between resorts, there’s no real opportunity for street crime, either.
Sure, that doesn’t mean that every holiday passes without any incident; petty crime can take place anywhere on Earth, and Bali does have some health problems that you might not encounter back home (though the majority of tourists do not fall sick during their time here).
So, it’s important to have some travel insurance, but it’s not something that you need to dwell on. All of our team members would be entirely happy to bring every generation of their family to Nusa Dua and put them up, particularly in one of the amazing properties listed above.
Which Family-Friendly Hotels Are Closest To The Beach In Nusa Dua?
Nearly all of the hotels in Nusa Dua are on the beachfront; it’s part of the reason that they tend to come with high rack rates. Families on holiday tend to expect sun, sea and sand here.
But Grand Hyatt Bali has 700 meters of beachfront to enjoy. The Laguna also has direct beach access, as do the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, The Westin and The Mulia.
Which Is Better For Families Seminyak Or Nusa Dua?
We’d opt for Nusa Dua if we had younger children and wanted a relaxing break at a big-name hotel, where we’d be looked after constantly throughout the stay.
However, if we had older kids/teenagers, we’d head to Seminyak; it’s a more energetic beach town which is easy to walk around, and it’s very close to Waterbom, Southeast Asia’s biggest waterpark. It’s also a great place to learn to surf.
Final Thoughts On Family-Friendly Fun In Nusa Dua
There’s a lot of joy to be had from a family holiday in Nusa Dua. The best hotels here help to ensure your stay is entirely stress-free. They have many safe swimming options, supervised activities that include introductions to the local culture, spacious accommodations and beaches where parents can actually relax without worrying about their kids being swept out to sea.
Whether you go with the waterslide-filled energy of the Grand Hyatt, the free kids’ club and lagoon vibe of the Conrad, the structured play programs of the Wstein or the value for money and pools of the Courtyard by Marriott, you will find Nusa Dua is abundant with properties that have been designed around children’s and family needs.
Nusa Dua wil work best if you want a self-contained, zero-stress place to stay with really high-quality facilities. It’s best to select your resort around your children’s ages and you preferred pace of living.
We recommend that you always book with family room configurations in mind and that you prepare for days of play in the pool, beach time and the simple pleasures that come with being waited on hand and foot.
Your kids are going to remember the excitement of the slides and the feel of the powdery sand underfoot, and you’re going to remember the joys of them at kids’ club while you luxuriate in the hotel spa.
