Kerobokan is a lovely place near Seminyak, packed to the brim with luxury villa accommodations and top-quality restaurants, bars and cafes.
Yet, it’s probably the most infamous place on the island, too. So, why is it notorious, and why do so many people love to stay in Kerobokan? Our guide will explain everything. Check it out.
Where Is Kerobokan? Close Proximity To Neighbouring Seminyak
The area is, quite literally, next to Seminyak and a very short drive from Canggu, Umalas and even Kuta and Legian.
That makes it ideally situated for the busiest parts of the island while being slightly more relaxed.
We should note that the road to Seminyak can get quite congested, though, and traffic can lead to serious delays. Whereas if you want to drive to Denpasar, you’ll be there in 15 minutes!
How To Get To Kerobokan?
If you’re staying in one of the villas or a hotel located in the area, it’s best to arrange an airport transfer to the area. It will often be included in the room rent, and they will arrange for someone to meet you at the airport and bring you straight to your accommodation. It’s hassle-free.
Otherwise, we’d recommend taking a Grab or Gojek from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Kerobokan?
There’s no bad time of year to visit. You’ll find that in the wet season, it rains a little more than in the dry season, but we still see several hours of sunshine each day. It is a bit hotter and more humid.
But there are fewer crowds at the attractions, and the cost of rooms and flights is lower.
Conversely, it’s a little cooler and less rainy in the dry season, but rooms and flights cost more, and there are more people at the attractions.
This tropical island paradise is warm and sunny all year round, so you’re bound to have fun no matter when you come.
What To Do In Kerobokan?
Batu Belig Beach
This stretch of beach feels like it goes on forever, and it heads off to the south in a nearly unbroken stretch all the way to Kuta.
The sea views here are quite pleasant, and there are some nearby beach bars where you can get a cold drink or listen to some music.
It’s not a great place for swimming, however, and the waves and strong undercurrents make it fairly dangerous to test the waters.
Petitenget Beach
This popular beach leads into the famous Seminyak Beach area, and it’s a fairly pleasant place to be, though the trash can sadly mount up on the sand at times.
You can easily rent a sun lounger here, and the seaside warungs and restaurants are great places to eat.
Again, though, it’s not really a swimming beach, and you need to keep an eye out for a lifeguard because there’s not always somebody on duty here.
Kharisma Antiques
This charming antique shop is where every expat in the know goes to buy their furniture and trimmings for their home.
You can, of course, pick things up here and have them shipped on to any other destination around the world.
If you want some truly authentic and unique Balinese pieces that have been acquired entirely legally, it’s the place to go.
Petitenget Temple
This centuries-old temple is one of the few places of authentic Balinese culture in the area, and it is more about tourism than tradition.
The combination of red brick and sandstone gives it an ancient vibe (and it is centuries old).
Climb the dragon stairs to the main courtyard and feast your eyes on the shrines draped in the local chequered cloth.
The temple is said to help guard Bali against evil from the sea.
Jalan Raya Kerobokan Shopping Street
This is one of the best destinations on the island for homeware, furnishings, art and home decor.
The street has plenty of side alleys with antique stores and glassware shops, too.
We think it’s best to start at one end of the street and work your way down to the other end.
Bali Bodyboarding
If you want to get into bodyboarding, then the nearby Bali Bodyboarding School is an ideal place to learn.
They offer board rentals, coaching, lessons and even long-term bodyboarding camps for you to really develop your skills.
Berawa Beach
This beach in Canggu is home to the legendary FINNS beach club as well as to the largest lagoon on the Canggu coastline.
It’s a decent place for surfing, but it’s also quite dangerous for swimming. However, with three infinity pools to enjoy at FINNS, that’s not such a bad thing.
Kevala Home
This is an awesome factory outlet store for Kevala Ceramics, and if you want designer pottery for a great price, they’re a good bet for it.
A lot of the 5-star hotels in Bali buy from this place, so you’ll be in good company.
Also, the “Number 2” items simply have minor inconsistencies in the glaze and are not significantly different from the other items available.
Rosada Dollhouse
This is a very cool toy store that showcases a huge range of beautiful doll houses in various bright colours, and they also have an amazing range of Hot Wheels Cars!
Horseback Riding On The Beaches
This is a huge amount of fun. If you’ve never ridden a horse on a beach before, then you can easily do so at the beaches around Kerobokan.
There’s nothing more romantic than a sunset horse ride through the surf as it washes up on the sand.
Where To Stay In Kerobokan
Sana Vie Villa Seminyak by Ini Vie Hospitality
This is a very romantic setup ideal for honeymooning couples or those looking to celebrate an anniversary. The combination of Balinese and Japanese aesthetics is really cool.
Where Is It? Jl. Gn. Tangkuban Perahu No.888x, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Monolocale Resort Seminyak by Ini Vie Hospitality
Each villa here has its own private pool and is totally secluded from the other properties. If you want to surprise someone special, it’s perfect.
Where Is It? Jl. Umalas 1 No.88A, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
The Santai
This exclusive boutique resort has 11 luxury residences, each with its own pool, kitchen and living area. It’s lovely.
Where Is It? Villa Santai, Jl. Drupadi gang Damai, Seminyak, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Kamaniiya Petitenget Seminyak
A short stroll from all the best places in the area, you can’t go wrong with this lovely hotel.
Where Is It? Petitenget St No.19, Kerobokan Kelod, Kuta Utara, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Berry Amour Romantic Villas
Hotels aren’t all built for romance, but this one is, and we love the open-plan bedrooms that open out onto the private pool area.
Where Is It? Jalan Batu Belig, Kerobokan, Seminyak, Kuta Utara, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Villa Bali Asri Batubelig
Whether you want 1, 2, 3 or 4 bedrooms, they’ve got you covered here, and the 20-meter-long private pools are hard to beat!
Where Is It? Jl. Batu Belig Gg. Daksina No.3B, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
The Buah Bali Villas
This place is so luxurious they even provide each guest with a free mobile phone! They also offer a free shuttle service to any nearby area.
Where Is It? 85C3+J37, Jl. Petitenget, Gg. Cempaka, Kerobokan, Kuta, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Balinea Villa – Rooms & Spa
Each villa and suite gets its own garden, terrace and jacuzzi, as well as access to the large onsite pool. The spa is first-rate, too.
Where Is It? Jl. Merta Agung No.11, Kerobokan, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
The Kayana Villa
If you love minimalism, you’re going to love the 24 properties at this resort. The attention to detail here is amazing.
Where Is It? Jl. Petitenget, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Villa Kayu Raja
This large resort has 58 properties to choose from, and each of them has its own pool, kitchen, jacuzzi and more. There are free shuttle services to all the local amenities, too.
Where Is It? Kerobokan, Jl. Lb. Sari Jl. Petitenget No.18, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Where To Eat In Kerobokan
The Grumpy Butcher
This is an excellent little steak house with excellent wagyu and some amazing grilled octopus! You will need to make a reservation if you want a seat, though.
Where Is It? Kerobokan, Jl. Petitenget No.21A, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Fire
Fire is fine dining, and you need to reserve a reservation to enjoy this experience-based place inspired by the Kecak Dance.
Where Is It? Jl. Petitenget Kerobokan, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
La Vecchia Tana by Italycafe
This is a lovely casual trattoria-style place with tasty pizza, fresh plates of pasta and a very decent wine list.
Where Is It? Jl. Batu Belig No.88, Kerobokan, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Sangaska Restaurant
This 40-seater Indonesian restaurant isn’t cheap, but it’s an amazing introduction to Balinese food. The ingredients are all locally sourced where possible.
Where Is It? Jalan Pangkung Sari No. 100 Kerobokan, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesi
Frestro Bar & Restaurant
This is a decent international bar with great live music and cold cocktails. You’ll always feel at home here.
Where Is It? Jalan Petitenget No.108 – 110, Kerobokan, Kuta Utara, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Jemme Jewellery & Dining
We’d never have thought of combining a jewellery store with a restaurant, but it works very well, and the food here is to die for.
Where Is It? Jalan Petitenget No. 28, Seminyak, Kuta, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Rustica Bali
Everyone raves about the gluten-free pasta, but the rest of the menu is every bit as good. The wine is very reasonably priced, too.
Where Is It? Jl. Batu Belig No.1, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Barabacoa Bali
If you’re in the mood for an awesome Argentinian-style BBQ, then there’s nowhere else to go but Barabacoa. It’s very good.
Where Is It? Petitenget St No.14, Kerobokan Kelod, Kuta Utara, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Gimme Pies
This Kiwi-style pie shop just hits the spot when you’re missing the taste of home. All the pies are made fresh, onsite daily. Yum.
Where Is It? Jl. Gunung Salak Gg. Pd. Tegal Teratai No.3, Padangsambian, Kec. Denpasar Bar., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80117, Indonesia
The Kerobokan Prison: The Source Of The Area’s Infamy
The reason for this area’s infamy is the Kerobokan Penitentiary Institution, which is Lembaga Pemasyarakatan Kerobokan in Bahasa. It’s sometimes called Hotel K by sarcastic locals and expats.
It was built back in 1979 to hold a reasonable 300 inmates. Sadly, the prison now holds more than 1,400 convicts of various nationalities around the world.
Nearly 90% of the people in the jail are from Indonesia, and nearly 80% of all the people within its walls were convicted under the country’s harsh drug laws.
Just 15,000 IDR is allocated per day to spend on each prisoner’s needs. That’s just under $1 USD as we go to press.
The presence of a local jail is normally not that big a deal, but this prison has seen some fairly high-profile prisoners pass through its doors.
Schapelle Corby was an Australian woman who was sentenced to 20 years for marijuana smuggling! Though she only served nine years before being paroled.
Michael Blanc had a similar sentence and had to serve 14 years before being released.
However, it’s Lindsay Sandiford, a British woman sentenced to death for drug smuggling, the Bali Nine, a collection of Australian nationals all sentenced to death for drug offences and the two Bali Bombers who were executed by firing squad that really brought outside attention to the prison.
It is also well known for its harsh conditions, and there is a long history of riots in the jail.
Kerobokan Jail Tours!
Strangely, this has led to a large number of tourists who want to see the inside of the jail without being forced to stay inside it.
While there is no official tour of the establishment, for fairly obvious reasons, it is possible to get inside as a voluntourist.
An Australian reporter did this back in 2017 to demonstrate how easy it was.
We should note that this has not been possible since the pandemic, and currently, only relatives are allowed to visit the prisoners at Kerobokan.
FAQs
Is Kerobokan A Good Place To Live?
The expats of Bali seem to love Kerobokan. It lets them stay close to the best beaches, restaurants, cafes, and resorts but also stay a bit further away from the holiday crowds.
It’s full of nice villas with beautiful furniture, and the main road connects you to the rest of the island.
However, while Kerobokan offers great access to the most popular things in South Bali, particularly if you have a car, it’s also a fairly short drive from the airport, the rice fields and much of the best of the rest of the island, too.
You might say it has the best of all worlds.
What Is The Largest City In Bali? What Is The Main City In Bali Indonesia?
There is only one large city in Bali (two at a push if you look to Singaraja, but that’s only the size of a medium-sized town in most parts of Southeast Asia), and that’s Denpasar.
The centre of Denpasar is about a 30-minute drive from Kerobokan, which makes the area great for access to the best shops here, too.
Where Is The Quiet Side Of Bali?
The quietest parts of Bali tend to be on the East Coast and North Coast because they’re as far away from the main beach resort towns and the hotel and villa crowds as possible.
If you want to visit Lovina Beach (in the North), it’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Kerobokan, and Amed (in the East) is about 3 hours away due to the traffic and the distance.
Is It Worth Visiting Kerobokan?
Yes! Kerobokan is basically an extension of Seminyak, and it’s a great place with lots of luxury villas, boutiques, designer shops, and also places specializing in interior design.
The daytime life in the area is busy and varied, and you’re not far from the more nightlife-oriented areas of Seminyak and Canggu.
If you visit Canggu from Kerobokan, please make sure to stop in and see us at FINNS Beach Club, the best beach club in the world. We’ll always be happy to see you.
How Long Do I Need In Kerobokan?
It really depends on what you want from your stay here. If you just want luxury villas, nice beaches and some shops to spend your money in, you could spend your whole vacation here with short trips into Seminyak and Canggu for some nightlife.
However, if you just want to see the most popular things and then move on, a day or two is all you really need to spend in Kerobokan.
How To Book A Holiday In Kerobokan?
If you feel the inspiration to visit Kerobokan then we’d recommend that you book your holiday through the Bali Res Centre.
They are a specialist travel agent focused on Balinese holidays, and they’re located here on the island, too.
They can ensure you get to do all the most popular things and at the right price for you. Best of all, because they’re based here, when you use the Bali Res Centre, you’re supporting the local economy and not some big multinational corporation’s profits.
Final Thoughts On What Kerobokan Offers
Kerobokan is located so near Seminyak that you won’t be surprised to find that it’s full of great hotels, villas, shops, etc.
If you want somewhere where you can enjoy great restaurants, art galleries, and cafes and be within a short drive of the beaches and the main nightlife districts as well as the rice fields, Kerobokan might be an ideal place for your Bali holiday.
If you do decide to stay in Kerobokan, we hope you’ll come over and join the fun at FINNS Beach Club during your time on the island. They say it’s not really a visit to Bali without a visit to FINNS.
