Bali High: why our family loved Laguna Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua

The Laguna Resort & Spa in Nusa Dua is a gem among Bali hotels, as Benjamin Sturges and his kids found out when they stopped off for a few nights on a recent Bali holiday.

Main Lobby, The Laguna Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is a world away from the bustle of southern Bali

Nestled on the shores of Nusa Dua, The Laguna Resort & Spa is a gem where my wife and I gratefully landed after a busy tour around Bali and eastern Indonesia with our kids, Arthur and Mollie.

Nusa Dua may be only 20 minutes from Denpasar international airport but it could be in a world of its own. And the bustle of southern Bali seems even further away as we’re welcomed to The Laguna with the sounding of a traditional Balinese gong and refreshing drinks. There was nothing for it but to sink blissfully into our comfortable chairs and admire the ornate and beautifully designed reception.

Two bedroom villa, The Laguna Nusa Dua

The Laguna Nusa Dua blends Balinese tradition with contemporary luxury

The children, on the other hand, were squealing with excitement at the sight of no fewer than seven lagoon-swimming pools surrounding the hotel. We knew then we had definitely made the right choice.

The Laguna’s recent refurbishment was completed in July 2023 and its blend of contemporary amenities and traditional Balinese details, make for a truly original experience.

We shared the spacious Ocean View Suite which includes interconnecting rooms as well as a private balcony. However, the draw of the lagoons meant the kids had their goggles on before we’d even unpacked or had a chance to admire the view.

Lagoon pools, The Laguna Nusa Dua

More pools than you can count? Kid heaven on a Bali holiday

We were told there were seven pools, but Arthur and Mollie reckoned there were 10 or in fact 11! They also couldn’t agree on a favourite. Was it the central lagoon with its real sand beach or the new KulKul Beach House infinity pool?

Exploring the expansive hotel grounds is an activity in itself, swimming from pool to pool through lush tropical gardens. Although the hotel is also located directly on a beach, known locally as Mengiat, and as flawless as one imagines Bali beaches should be.

Mollie painting pots, The Laguna Nusa Dua

Water sports, crafts, pools and even fire-eaters

Children’s activities are available, as are water sports, which the hotel is happy to arrange locally. And for adults there are extensive gym and spa facilities: a Traditional Balinese Massage was a highlight for me.

Evenings at The Laguna start with cocktail hour at De Bale bar and finish with authentic entertainment. On our first night we were treated to a wonderful Balinese theatre performance, complete with fire eaters.

Kulkul Beach House, The Laguna Nusa Dua

Take your pick of outstanding restaurants

The Laguna’s culinary experiences are outstanding too. We began each day with breakfast at Banyubiru Restaurant. Then for lunch and dinner, we’d the option of Banyubiru again or KulKul Beach House for fresh pizzas. If you want a simpler experience, there’s also the Corner Stone Deli.

Our favourite, however, was Arwana which gave us a rare opportunity for a romantic meal and even topped our evening off with fireworks.

Mollie & Arthur chilling by the pool. But which pool?

Finally, special mention has to to go to the staff at The Laguna wo were both attentive and endlessly accommodating. By now you’ll know we thought our stay was magical. So it goes without saying that if you’re looking for a dreamy getaway where even the youngest kids get their own slice of paradise, we highly recommend The Laguna Nusa Dua.