Bali Wins Again: Named Asia's Best Travel Destination for 2025 / Eight Top Resorts

Bali has once again been crowned Asia’s best travel destination! According to the annual Readers’ Choice Awards by DestinAsian magazine, Bali was voted the Best Island in Asia for 2025, surpassing renowned destinations like the Maldives, Phuket in Thailand, Phu Quoc in Vietnam, and Langkawi in Malaysia, continuing to showcase its unparalleled charm.

Bali Wins Best Island in Asia for 18 Consecutive Years

Known for its extensive English-speaking readership, DestinAsian magazine selects the best travel destinations annually through votes by experienced travelers. The magazine noted: ‘Our readers have once again chosen Bali as the most beloved island destination in the Asia-Pacific region, making Bali the winner for 18 consecutive years, solidifying its position as Indonesia’s most popular tourist hotspot.’

This destination, known as the ‘Island of the Gods,’ is famous for its pristine beaches, lush rice fields, renowned surf spots, and deep cultural heritage. The magazine added: ‘Bali’s unique culture and artistic atmosphere inspire travelers worldwide, and its picturesque coastline and numerous luxury resorts amidst pastoral landscapes make it irresistibly attractive to modern travelers.‘

Bali Airport and Top Resorts Also Honored

In addition to the island itself winning awards, Bali’s infrastructure and luxury accommodations also shone in this year’s DestinAsian Awards.

Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport ranked fourth in the ‘Best Airports’ category for 2025, following Singapore’s Changi Airport, Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, and Hong Kong International Airport.

Indonesia’s Best Resorts Rankings

In the “Best Resorts in Indonesia” rankings, Bali’s luxury hotels dominate the top ten:

1. The Ritz-Carlton Bali – Takes the crown
   🔗 Check The Ritz-Carlton Bali rates & reviews

2. Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort – Runner-up
   🔗 Check Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort rates & reviews

3. The St. Regis Bali Resort – Third place
   🔗 Check The St. Regis Bali Resort rates & reviews

4. The Apurva Kempinski Bali – Fourth place
   🔗 Check The Apurva Kempinski Bali rates & reviews

5. Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Fifth place
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6. Raffles Bali – Sixth place
   🔗 Check Raffles Bali rates & reviews

7. Alila Seminyak – Seventh place
   🔗 Check Alila Seminyak rates & reviews

8. AYANA Resort Bali – Tenth place
   🔗 Check AYANA Resort Bali rates & reviews

Bali Continues to Be One of the World’s Most Popular Travel Destinations

Bali is not only renowned in Asia but also shines brightly in the global tourism market. According to the TripAdvisor 2025 Traveler’s Choice Awards, Bali was ranked as the second most popular travel destination globally, just behind London and surpassing Dubai, which came in third. Other top ten destinations include internationally famous cities like Paris, Rome, Bangkok, and Marrakech.

Further Reading:

• The World’s Favorite Destination! Bali Takes the Crown
• Bali Shines in TripAdvisor’s 2025 Traveler’s Choice Awards as Asia’s Top Destination

With increasing media exposure, Bali’s tourism demand continues to rise. In 2025, the island is expected to welcome over 6.5 million international visitors, along with millions of domestic tourists, setting new tourism records.

Exploring Bali’s Hidden Gems: Emerging Hotspots

While Bali’s mainstream tourist areas like Kuta (Kuta Guide), Seminyak (Seminyak Guide), Nusa Dua (Nusa Dua Guide), and Ubud (Ubud Guide) remain beloved by travelers, more returning visitors are choosing to explore lesser-known hidden spots to gain a deeper understanding of Balinese culture and avoid the crowds.

In 2026, the following areas are expected to become emerging popular destinations:

• East Bali: Karangasem, the tranquil Candidasa, and the diving paradise Amed

Further Reading: Amed/Tulamben Guide

• North Bali: Lovina, the dolphin haven, and the natural retreat Pemuteran

Read More: Essential Tips for Your North Bali Adventure: 15 Things to Know Before You Go

• West Bali: Surfing Haven Medewi, Majestic West Bali National Park

Indonesian Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa emphasized the commitment to boosting tourism development in the Karangasem region, encouraging collaboration between the tourism industry and local communities to ensure broader economic benefits for residents.

Bali Area Guides

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FAQ

1. Why has Bali been voted Asia’s Best Island for 18 consecutive years?

Bali captivates travelers with its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, world-class resorts, and diverse activities, making it an ideal destination.

2. What are the emerging tourist spots to explore in Bali in 2025?

East Bali’s Amed, North Bali’s Lovina and Pemuteran, as well as West Bali’s Medewi and West Bali National Park, are set to be the hottest emerging destinations next year.

3. Which globally renowned luxury resorts can be found in Bali?

Top-tier resorts include The Ritz-Carlton Bali, Sofitel Nusa Dua, The St. Regis Bali Resort, Apurva Kempinski, and Mandapa, among others.

4. How does Bali’s international airport rank among global airports?

Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport was ranked the 4th best airport in the world for 2025.

5. When is the best time to visit Bali?

Bali is a year-round destination, but the dry season (April to October) offers sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach vacations.

No-Fail Accommodation List

• Regent Bali Canggu: Canggu's Premier Luxury Resort
• Paradisus by Meliá Bali: Asia's First Luxury All-Inclusive Resort (Nusa Dua, 2026)
• Top 18 Hotels Near Kuta Beach
• iSuite by Ekosistem Seminyak: Design-Forward Sustainable Boutique Stay
• The Meru Sanur: Named Best New Hotel in Indonesia 2026
• Alaya Suites Ubud: A Serene Green-Surrounded Retreat for Slow Travel in Bali
• Foodie's Pick: 8 Top Value Villas & Hotels Within Walking Distance of Seminyak Eat Street