Bali is an island that has no lack of beach clubs, but boy, are we excited for this one. Batu Belig Beach just welcomed Mari Beach Club, the newest concept from Syah Establishments. And it’s just in time for the announcement that Indonesia would be allowing quarantine-free entry for all international travellers.
The luxury beach club sits between the coastal districts of Seminyak and Canggu, and what sets it apart from other beach clubs is its commitment to sustainability and Balinese culture. It’s been dubbed “Little Bali” for good reason and you’ll see exactly how Balinese hospitality and craftsmanship intersect here. If you’ve missed Bali, heading down to the beach club is a great way to experience everything the island has to offer. Mari Beach Club is currently in its soft opening, and we’ve got all the reasons you should make the trip!
Architecture and design that’s uniquely Balinese
Set on a whopping 8730-meter-square plot of land, Mari Beach Club is completely decked out in Balinese design, and it’s something you’ll notice immediately. Besides being on the eyes though, sustainability is also at the heart of Mari Beach Club, made possible with local design collective Ibuku and numerous local craftsmen.
The building itself is a feat of modern engineering, constructed entirely from bamboo with a design that allows you to feel the sea breeze from anywhere. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by The Dome, a massive structure inspired by the magnificent Mount Agung and from there every corner is guaranteed to be a great backdrop for your Instagram post.
Even the most minute details throughout the venue are uniquely Balinese, as much care has gone into sourcing these elements from local producers in Ubud. Some of the lighting indoors is even made from recycled plastics, which you might not believe at first glance.
The penjor lampion (paper lantern) lamps here were made by weavers from the Sayan village, while the decorative wall lamps were handcrafted by AA Raka Bernat, an Ubud artisan who’s also a pioneer in this traditional method of weaving with young coconut leaves. The decorative tenun fabric throughout the premises was also made by local weavers from Lebih in Gianyar. The helpful staff at Mari Beach Club are also all decked out in uniforms designed by local clothing brand Pithecanthropus Bali (which frankly kinda makes us want to work there).
Outside, a feature that stands out is its unique copper thatched roofs, a modern take on traditional Alang Alang roofs. Nature is truly at every corner of Mari Beach Club, and we’re not just talking about the peaceful river that flows across it. Along the stream, you might just find a towering wooden swing, but it’s not just any swing either. Made by local craftsmen from Ubud, the Ayunan Jantra — as it’s referred to in local language — is a replica of the ones found in the ancient Aga village of East Bali. Here, it’ll also be hard to miss the organic-shaped pools inspired by Bali’s own Ayung River that overlooks the vast ocean.
Here, you might also spot a pindekan, an outdoor bamboo wind chime that was made by local craftsmen in Sukawati. While it was traditionally installed in rice fields to scare birds away, here it has the opposite effect, as the sounds it produces adds to the atmosphere.
Many ways to keep boredom at bay
Visitors can also look forward to an ever-changing lineup of events, from wellness programs and traditional dance performances. After all, the beach club has a capacity of 1500, which also means Mari Beach Club will be as ready as you are for some live entertainment as soon as COVID-19 safety measures allow.
In the meantime, you can enjoy organic house tunes by the pool during the day. There’s no lack of daybeds either so you can keep that vitamin D deficiency at bay while enjoying the best views of the sunset. After the sun sets, soulful Afro house DJ performances take center stage, where dancing your butt off is absolutely encouraged.
Take your tastebuds on a trip
Lounging in the sun isn’t complete without a drink in hand, and Mari Beach Club has got you covered with a variety of classic or Indonesian-inspired cocktails at both the Main Bar and Pool Bar. You’ll also need something to go with that drink, and you can take your pick from the many dishes available, from sushi rolls to pork souvlaki, and even classic Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng. Whatever you choose though, we’re sure the stunning view of the ocean will be a perfect complement. And if that’s not enough, Solé, a Japanese-Mediterranean restaurant will be opening at a later date.
Ready to head off to paradise? Head over to their website for more information, or keep up with them on Instagram.
Reader Interactions