If you've followed Coastal Vintage for a while, you'll know that Bali is much more than a sourcing destination for me. It's where I reconnect with talented artisans, discover one-of-a-kind treasures, and find endless inspiration for the pieces you'll see in our warehouse.
Over the years, I've stayed in dozens of hotels, enjoyed countless long lunches, found coffee spots I return to every trip and discovered places that simply feel like home.
Whether you're planning your first visit or heading back to Bali again, I thought I'd share some of my favourite places to stay, eat and explore.
Where I stay:
When I'm in Bali sourcing, I spend long days travelling between suppliers and artisans, so I love staying somewhere that's comfortable, beautifully designed and close to everything I need (especially my favourite day spa).
Kanvaz Village Resort
One of my favourite boutique hotels in Seminyak is Kanvaz Village Resort. It strikes the perfect balance between luxury and relaxation, and staff that remember you and welcome you back happily each time.
The stunning central pool, beautiful interiors and incredible breakfast make it a place I love to return to. It's also perfectly positioned for hosting my sourcing adventures and exploring Seminyak and the back streets.
The Colony Hotel
I've been staying at The Colony for almost a decade and it still feels as charming as ever. The Dutch Colonial architecture, elegant interiors and unbeatable location make it one of my favourite boutique hotels in Bali. Being next door the iconic homeware store Kim Soo and only a short stroll to the beach certainly doesn't hurt either.
KLEO by Hyatt
The newest addition to my favourites, KLEO brings a fresh, playful energy to Seminyak. I love its colourful vintage-inspired interiors and relaxed atmosphere. It's stylish without trying too hard, and the Italian restaurant downstairs is worth visiting even if you're not staying there.
If you'd like a more detailed review of each hotel, you can read my full accommodation guide over here on my sourcing adventures website.
Where I eat:
One of the best parts of Bali is the food. Every trip uncovers another café or restaurant that becomes an instant favourite.
Breakfast
Kim Soo
My go-to breakfast spot. Great coffee, beautiful interiors and a homewares store that's almost impossible to leave empty-handed, and one my dearest friends is the manager, so I always go to catch up with him and the staff.
Lunch
La Brisa
Built from reclaimed timber fishing boats and filled with natural textures, vintage details and relaxed coastal styling, La Brisa feels like stepping into the Coastal Vintage world. I always recommend arriving in the afternoon, ordering something delicious and staying through sunset. You can also read more about La Brisa here
Dinner
La Lucciolas (or La Lucc)
This al fresco open two-story air thatched roof timber structure offers a refined but relaxed tropical dining experience serving delicious Italian food. The best time is to arrive before dusk, enjoy a sublime cocktail and watch the iconic Bali sunsets.
Where I play:
One of my favourite things about Bali isn't ticking off attractions, it's wandering.
I love exploring quiet streets, discovering artisan workshops, stopping for coffee and finding hidden boutiques tucked away from the busy tourist strips. Some of the best treasures I've ever found weren't planned at all.
Captain Sal's Bali Tips:
• Stay somewhere you'll enjoy coming back to after a busy day.
• Book your favourite restaurants ahead of time (your accommodation or host can help).
• Allow extra time for traffic—it's all part of the Bali experience.
• Wander down the little side streets—you'll often find the best cafés and boutiques there.
• Leave room in your suitcase... you'll almost certainly find something beautiful to bring home or buy another suitcase in Bali and book 40 kilos going home.
Until next time...
Every sourcing trip leaves me inspired in a different way. It's the people I meet, the places I discover and the incredible craftsmanship I see that continue to shape Coastal Vintage.
I hope this guide helps you discover a few new favourites on your own Bali adventure. And if you happen to find a hidden café, beautiful hotel or little local gem, I'd love to hear about it the next time you visit us in Noosa.
And if you would like to join me one day on a sourcing adventure, sign up to the www.sallyo.co newsletter to keep informed of upcoming adventures and follow @sallyo.co for lots of inspiration and the fun times we have while on a adventure.
