Since Starwood's ultra-luxurious St. Regis brand opened this, its first Asian resort, the property has emerged as one of Asia's premier beach destinations, justifiably earning the many awards it has garnered since its 2008 debut. A 5-star deluxe resort on a prime, semiprivate beachfront location in the gated Nusa Dua resort complex, the St. Regis positively oozes timeless good taste and modern luxe refinement, with impeccable service levels. It also manages a surprising understated barefoot informality, sprawling across 22 acres of tropical grounds beside an immaculate stretch of unobstructed white sand. Exquisitely appointed suites and villas in 12 categories provide elegant residential-style accommodation, individually crafted with Indonesian and Asian artifacts and antiquities, some with private pools, and all with sumptuous marble bathrooms and St. Regis–signature bespoke butler service.

Tropical-style Lagoon Villas offer pronto terrace access to the stunning swimmable salt water lagoon—one of the resort's (many) highlights. For those with big bucks, the one-bedroom Strand Villas with direct beach access are as lavish beachfront living as you'll find, adorned with fine artworks and chandeliers; especially shameless in its opulence is the three-bedroom, two-story Strand Residence, which along with the refined sixth-floor penthouse Grand Astor is suitable for any presidents who happen to be passing through. St. Regis' main beachside pool has the whiff of an exclusive beach club, with a swim-up bar, cabanas, and a fawning staff. Stand-out facilities also include signature fine-dining restaurant Kayuputi (winner of numerous "Wine Spectator" awards) and the acclaimed Remède Spa, a roomy haven of serenity with an Aqua-Vitale pool. Next door to the resort lies the equally prestigious Bali National Golf Club.