Why Grand Hyatt Bali Is the Perfect Escape for Families

From the moment we arrived, we were embraced by Balinese culture and surrounded by verdant landscaped gardens, lagoons and lakes.

Although the property is expansive, with 636 rooms and suites and two villas, we found it easily walkable, a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of Pererenan and Uluwatu. Despite being popular with families, it felt incredibly calm and quiet, each stroll to a new restaurant or pool a relaxing endeavour.

We were fortunate enough to stay in a Grand Executive King room, a 141sqm room that overlooked Nusa Dua Beach and the vast gardens below, providing the perfect reading spot in the afternoon while my toddler napped. The resort features expansive family suites, connecting rooms and for those seeking a sense of adventure, Mermaid and Pirate-themed rooms.

Five swimming pools are dotted around the property, two with water slides, plus toddler, kids, and teen clubs. For those seeking a quiet retreat away from the family fun, we ventured to the Grand Pool, a lagoon-style pool that provided the perfect space to while away the afternoon. As part of the all-inclusive package, we had access to unlimited food and beverages, including cocktails, spirits, wine and beer. I tried the vegan salad (delicious) and balanced it with a bowl of chips (also delicious), and of course, a cheeky margarita.

The all-inclusive dining offering spans five specialty restaurants, including Italian (Salsa Verde) and Japanese (Nampu). Nampu was a standout, adorned with authentic Japanese decor, including traditional low Zashiki tables where you slip off your shoes and sit comfortably on tatami mats. The flavours here truly burst in your mouth and are reminiscent of flavours across Japan. The cold soba salad was a standout, as well as the agadashi tofu, and the chefs were more than willing to accommodate dietary needs. We were fortunate enough to meet a lovely couple sitting opposite us who happily entertained our daughter so we could enjoy our meal together. It was a small gesture, but it captured the spirit of the entire resort. The sense of kindness seemed to flow everywhere, through the staff, through the guests; it was almost impossible not to find yourself striking up a conversation.

While Grand Hyatt Bali is recognised as one of the premier family resorts in the region, a moment of serenity for weary parents can be found at Kriya Spa. The spa feels like a secret village tucked within the property, transporting parents away from the lovely chaos that is parenthood into a space of complete calmness, surrounded by water. Kriya Spa offerings are based on the rituals of bliss, harmony, purity and energy, all specifically designed for both relaxing and invigorating moments.

Following the treatment, half in a daze, you’re whisked away to a relaxation lounge to enjoy a herbal tea until you’re ready to venture back to reality. Of course, if a sports lounge is more up your alley, Lila Cita is Grand Hyatt Bali’s lively tavern-style bar, where vintage charm meets vibrant energy. Think baked pretzels, popcorn and beer meet live sports on the big screen and an assortment of board games and billiards.

A highlight of our stay was dining under the stars at Pasar Senggol. Situated at the heart of the resort in the open amphitheatre, and designed as a contemporary Balinese night market, we were treated to traditional Indonesian and Balinese dishes as we enjoyed live Balinese cultural performances. The stalls are plentiful and cater to all dietary needs, and a kids' stall means even the fussiest of eaters will be content.

With full bellies, we wandered past handcrafted stalls offering wooden trinkets and toys, to which two handmade maracas made their way home with us, and a very cheerful toddler.

On our final day, we ventured out for a run before the heat became unbearable and enjoyed exploring the paved footpath along the beach, offering uninterrupted views of pristine beaches. It was one of the first times I had run in Bali, often forgoing my favourite pastime when it came to navigating busy streets and dogs chasing me, but Nusa Dua is praised as one of the best places to lace up. I witnessed workers raking seaweed up and taking it away, which goes to show just how much this pocket of Bali is idealised for its beauty.

When it was time to check out, the sweetest touch was a small farewell gift for our daughter, a gesture that perfectly encapsulated the warmth we felt throughout our stay.