Hotels in Kerobokan

In Bali Province, Indonesia lies a relaxed kelurahan (administrative village) named Kerobokan. Ideally located in Badung Regency, it offers an unusual combination of cool restaurants, calm rice fields and a whirlwind of motorcycles. It is generally a residential area though it has several exotic beaches with glistening dark sand.

Seamlessly blending in with the more popular district of Seminyak, the area has some terrific, hidden gems where prices are frequently significantly lower than in central Seminyak and there is virtually no waiting time required for a table. The locality offers a fusion of relaxed village life and cutting edge cool, making it a destination worth visiting.

For accommodation, there are fabulous villas with sizeable gardens and wonderful views of fertile rice paddy fields at excellent prices. Other budget-friendly options include apartments, town houses and hotels, all with good facilities and some with all-inclusive options.

What to see and do in Kerobokan

There are several snorkelling and scuba diving safari tours in the area including private tours and several beaches. It is also an ideal location for buying interesting designs of art, furniture and homeware. Horse riding is also available on the black sand coastal area. Other engaging activities include:

• Primo Bali Chocolate Factory: While you need an appointment to tour this chocolate factory, it is a great opportunity to sample the end products and buy various flavours and types of chocolate.
• Kharisma Antiques Bali: If you’d like to buy some memorabilia, this antique shop may present a suitable opportunity.
• Batubelig Beach: The name means slippery stone in the local dialect. The area has several bars and restaurants offering a chill spot on the sand.
• Syah Painting: Here, you’ll find interesting art galleries and exhibitions.
• Petitenget Temple: This is one of the few cultural landmarks in the locality. It is a centuries-old temple. It is especially lit by traditional dance rehearsals during the 210-day anniversary festivities.
• Rin Beauty Studio: For a relaxing spa treatment and any other beauty needs.
• Bodyboarding: There is a surf school for kids and adults with varying skill levels. Classes are administered by pro surfers.
• Kiadan Pelaga Village: An opportunity to tour the rice paddies and farms.

What to eat in Kerobokan

Undoubtedly, the favourite meal is rice though it is available in various types and forms. Accompanying options include babi guling (spit-roast pork stuffed with ginger, turmeric, chilli and garlic), ikan sambal (spicy grilled fish) and sambal terung (spiced eggplant). Other local favourites include sausage, meatballs, coconut and cassava leaves stuffed duck.

Typical events and festivals in Kerobokan

In the larger city and nearby neighbourhoods, there are festivals and celebrations throughout the year though none is specific to Kerobokan specifically. These include music festivals, culinary, fashion and handy craft festivals as well as literature competitions. Some of these are held only a few kilometres out of the destination such as:

• Bali Spirit Festival: Held in Ubud which is just 27.5 kilometres away, this is one of the biggest Asian Yoga Festivals held on the last week of March and the first week of April. During this event, there are over 300 workshops in healing, martial arts, personal development, dance and yoga that take place. The festival happens continuously over eight nights and seven days. There is also a dharma fair and several sources to buy amazing organic food. The venue is surrounded by lush green rice paddies and jungle patches.
• Semarapura Festival Klungkung: The venue of this festival changes and is announced each year. The event promotes tourism, art and culture and is held in conjunction with the Kota Semarapura anniversary. Also included are small business exhibitions, cultural performances, a cultural carnival and art and culinary competitions.

How to move around in Kerobokan

There are several public transportation options in this town including taxis or the local bus system. You can use the air-conditioned mini buses or mini vans. Alternatively, you can take a car rental.

The climate in Kerobokan

This is a pleasant destination throughout the year. The best weather is experienced between May and September as it is drier with minimal humidity and the best time for a wide array of activities including surfing and diving. November is rainy. All year round, the temperature varies from 24°C to 31°C. During the wet spell, precipitation ranges between 0cm and 140cm.