» Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa

The view says it all as you caste your eyes over Padand Padang and Impossibles. Cascading down the cliffside, luxurious suites, pool villas and duplex penthouses blend innovation and indulgence with views of worldclass surfspots. Relish lazy days at the cliff edge infinity pool, revitalising yoga and the pampering world of Anantara Spa. On flat days or when you are surfed out go an play golf on newly designed fairways with breathtaking views. A surfer’s paradise, with nearby options for novices at the surfing beaches of Bingin and Dreamland.

LOCAL BREAK

Benchmark Bali barrel machine and all-round epic wave up there with the best lefts on the planet. Needs major swells to work as it is tucked into the peninsula below the cliffs where the SE trades blow dead offshore. The short 50m ride starts with a pitching lip take-off that sets up into a perfectly cylindrical wall, tempting experts to stand on the tail and see how deep they can push it. Barrel intensity increases as it draws more water off the shallow coral and forces a speed run to the exit before the wave runs out of water. Best described as a bear pit, attracting the biggest and the best grizzlies from the local, expat and tourist hordes. Mayhem when it finally breaks, including drop-ins, snaking, glorious wipe-outs and only lucky experts will manage to get some scraps on a good day. Low is really sketchy, but there will still be someone out there risking their skin. Respect.