Paus Putih Hotel

The room was nice, and the hotel could be great if it were run properly. We could walk to coconut beach, which was a plus. But the staff weren't engaging, and one person was a bit rude. The taxi and bike rental arranged through the hotel were overpriced, so we contacted our old hotel instead. There was no hotel transfer at all, although other places in the same price range on the island provide free transfers. The worst part was getting there. The hotel is far out, the road is in very bad shape and almost entirely unlit. We didn't mind the distance or darkness so much, but the road felt horrible and genuinely dangerous on a bike. If you're new to riding, you could fall at any moment. I won't stay here again.

The roads were the low point: rough dirt tracks full of potholes, and maps didn't seem to know where the accommodation was. Two drivers got lost while we were there. Still, Paus Putih sits in a brilliant oceanfront spot on the northeast of Nusa Lembongan. At low tide you can step onto the beach, then take cliff walks to other places for a drink or a meal. We found the bungalows clean and pretty, and it was lovely to cool off in the air conditioning and nap after travelling and exploring before heading to one of the many warungs for dinner. They were all very good and none made us unwell. On our last night we had a very upmarket dinner, then walked the tracks home after leaving our bikes nearby. The pool and outdoor seating areas were clean and attractive. Breakfast was included and made for an easy start to the day. The omelette was our favourite. It's affordable, clean, and has lovely staff. I'd stay again. The roads are crappy, but the stay was worth it.

We had a really good stay. Everyone was welcoming from the start, with friendly hospitality and smiles from the staff, even the gardeners. Walking to the far end of the hotel brought us to a calming ocean view. There isn't a sunrise or sunset view, but it was still a lovely experience. The food and drinks were decent, though the prices made us think twice about eating there. The hotel is a fair way from most tourist spots, aside from the Mushroom Bay Beach area, and there's a secret natural pool not far away. Renting a scooter is pretty much the best way to get around. And about the bad reviews: read them carefully. If there's no profile photo, fewer than five reviews and no photos or videos as evidence, I'd guess there's an 80% chance they're lies.

The villas were beautiful and clean, with views of the ocean and outrigger boats bobbing on the waves. We enjoyed the food, and the pool was lovely and kept clean.