Bali is renowned for its serene landscapes and spiritual atmosphere, making it a global hotspot for yoga enthusiasts. Beyond Bali’s main island, several nearby islands offer tranquil retreats where you can deepen your practice, rejuvenate your mind, and reconnect with nature. Accessible by fast boat, these islands provide the perfect escape for those seeking a peaceful and transformative yoga experience. Here are some of the best yoga retreats on islands near Bali.
1. Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is a small island just a short fast boat ride from Bali, known for its laid-back vibe, clear waters, and beautiful beaches. It’s an ideal destination for a yoga retreat, offering both relaxation and adventure.
Yoga Bliss Lembongan
- Overview: Yoga Bliss is a well-regarded retreat that focuses on small group classes, ensuring personalized attention. It offers a range of yoga styles, including Vinyasa, Hatha, and Yin, as well as meditation sessions.
- Highlights: The retreat offers teacher training courses and daily drop-in classes. The serene setting amidst lush gardens makes it perfect for relaxation and introspection.
- Accommodations: Simple yet comfortable bungalows with a pool, close to the beach.
- Activities: In addition to yoga, you can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island by bike.
Serenity Yoga Lembongan
- Overview: Serenity Yoga offers a holistic approach to wellness, combining yoga with a focus on breathwork, meditation, and healthy living. The retreat is designed to cater to both beginners and experienced practitioners.
- Highlights: Daily yoga classes are held in a tranquil garden setting, with additional workshops on topics like Ayurveda and nutrition.
- Accommodations: Nearby partner accommodations range from budget to luxury, with easy access to the beach.
- Activities: Besides yoga, you can take part in SUP (stand-up paddle) yoga, explore the mangroves, or simply relax on the beach.
2. Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is a larger island with dramatic landscapes, perfect for those who want a yoga retreat that combines spiritual practice with the opportunity to explore nature.
Sanctuary Yoga
- Overview: Sanctuary Yoga offers a retreat focused on healing and transformation, with a combination of yoga, meditation, and wellness practices. The retreat is set in a secluded area of Nusa Penida, providing a peaceful environment for deep practice.
- Highlights: The retreat includes yoga classes, guided meditation, sound healing sessions, and workshops on holistic health.
- Accommodations: Eco-friendly bungalows with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs.
- Activities: Explore Nusa Penida’s famous spots like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong, or take part in a snorkeling trip to see manta rays.
Yoga Shack Nusa Penida
- Overview: Yoga Shack offers a more intimate and rustic retreat experience, with classes held in a traditional bamboo yoga shala surrounded by nature. The retreat focuses on Hatha and Vinyasa yoga.
- Highlights: Personalized attention with small group classes, and the opportunity to learn about Balinese culture through various workshops.
- Accommodations: Cozy, traditional huts located near the beach, offering a back-to-basics approach to relaxation.
- Activities: Island tours, beach days, and cultural experiences like learning traditional Balinese dance.
3. Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan, part of the Gili Islands, is a popular destination for both party-goers and those seeking tranquility. Amidst its lively atmosphere, you’ll find some excellent yoga retreats.
Gili Yoga
- Overview: Gili Yoga offers a comprehensive retreat experience, combining yoga with free diving for a unique blend of breath control and mindfulness. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to deepen their practice both on land and in the water.
- Highlights: Daily yoga classes in a beautiful open-air shala, free diving courses, and workshops on breathwork and meditation.
- Accommodations: Private rooms in a garden setting, close to the beach and main attractions of Gili Trawangan.
- Activities: Free diving, snorkeling, exploring the island by bike, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
H2O Yoga and Meditation Center
- Overview: H2O Yoga and Meditation Center is located on the quieter side of Gili Trawangan, offering a serene environment for yoga and meditation. The retreat focuses on mindfulness and spiritual growth.
- Highlights: A variety of yoga styles, including Yin, Vinyasa, and Kundalini, as well as daily meditation sessions and workshops on mindfulness.
- Accommodations: Simple, comfortable bungalows with a focus on sustainability, located in a peaceful garden.
- Activities: Enjoy the island’s natural beauty with snorkeling, biking, or simply relaxing by the pool.
4. Gili Air
Gili Air is known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for a yoga retreat that emphasizes relaxation and inner peace.
Flowers and Fire Yoga Garden
- Overview: Flowers and Fire Yoga Garden offers a retreat experience that blends yoga with creative expression and community living. The focus is on holistic wellness, with classes that nurture the body, mind, and soul.
- Highlights: A variety of yoga classes, creative workshops (like painting and writing), and a strong sense of community among participants.
- Accommodations: Beautifully designed bungalows with artistic touches, surrounded by tropical gardens.
- Activities: Enjoy quiet beaches, snorkeling trips, and exploring Gili Air’s laid-back cafes and restaurants.
Mandalablue Yoga and Meditation Retreat
- Overview: Mandalablue offers a peaceful retreat experience with a strong focus on meditation and mindfulness. The retreat is ideal for those looking to deepen their meditation practice alongside yoga.
- Highlights: Daily yoga and meditation sessions, with a focus on inner peace and spiritual growth. Workshops on topics like mindfulness and energy healing.
- Accommodations: Eco-friendly bungalows located close to the beach, with an emphasis on sustainable living.
- Activities: Relax on the beach, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and take part in community activities on the island.
The islands near Bali offer a variety of yoga retreats, each providing a unique experience that caters to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a transformative journey on Nusa Penida, a peaceful escape on Gili Air, or a holistic wellness experience on Nusa Lembongan, there’s a retreat that’s perfect for you. Accessible by fast boat, these retreats allow you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere of Bali’s surrounding islands, making your yoga practice a truly unforgettable experience.
