Live your dream life in Family friendly area in Bali.
Sandwiched between Bali’s more popular areas – Seminyak, Petitenget, and Canggu – this tiny village remain relatively quieter than its bustling neighbors, drowning in the emerald green rice paddies. The strategic location attracts visitors to its wide range of local restaurants with splendid vistas, a few great houseware stores, and fantastic relaxation spots. It’s a popular alternative for those who appreciate staying away from the noise yet, close to the action.
Are you thinking of moving to Umalas? Then, you have come to the right place. From living in Umalas costs, owning a villa in Umalas, and most importantly, the vibes, you will find everything you need to know here.
Why Move to Umalas?
Umalas is an excellent location to spend time in Bali, as you can hit the best places in Seminyak, surf in Canggu, and explore the rest of the island without feeling trapped like in Kuta. Plenty of activities for living in Umalas rely on places located in Umalas 1 and Umalas 2, south Canggu, North Seminyak, and north Kerobokan, all within a 10-minute scooter ride, guaranteed.
While Umalas is often only mentioned in conjunction with its more well-known neighbors, Seminyak and Canggu, this relaxed area has its charm, too. Expats, mainly French nationals, have long favored the area, and if you look closely, there is a certain je ne sais quoi about the area.
Umalas’s Living Cost
The Villa rental prices have skyrocketed since the massive tourist movements in Bali last year after the pandemic.
Expect to spend $980 to $2,600 per month for a single person living in Umalas; families and couples sharing rental costs will save quite a bit. And it’s possible to spend significantly more on a higher-end lifestyle.
As in most places on the planet, you’d get what you pay for. The gardens and bigger swimming pools will be more expensive but less unaffordable than in Europe or elsewhere. Considering being in a tropical climate throughout the year, what you get for the little extra, will add a great return on investment, considering the amount of time per year you can enjoy those spaces.
Umalas’s Vibes
Strategically located between Canggu and Seminyak, this area attracts many expatriates. It is reasonably quiet and still close to essential venues. Living in Umalas offers fewer restaurants and shops than in neighboring areas like Seminyak but a comprehensive collection of activities and places of interest, including, Gyms, skateparks, schools, and spas. In addition, the area provides some beautiful villas in nice and quiet surroundings. Living in Umalas is a perfect area for families and those looking for a peaceful neighborhood. Also, one of the most important things for families; international schools for children are more accessible in Umalas than in any other area in Bali.
Food, shopping, and fun
There are many places to eat, with new cafes, restaurants, and bars popping up frequently. There is a variety of Western food to choose from, as well as traditional cuisine. With Seminyak just next door, the Umalas culinary scene is quite broad. Three of the best dining spots you can experience are:
- Mosaic Beach Club; was opened by Frenchman and local celebrity chef Chris Salans. Mosaic sits on Batu Belig Beach road, a very short ride from Umalas. The food is exquisite, and you can enjoy a cocktail or two around the pool.
- Nook – if you want a fantastic view to match the food, visit Nook. Overlooking the rice paddies, Nook serves a mix of Balinese and western food.
- Habitual – close to Nook is Habitual. This little gem is only open for breakfast and lunch, but they dish up some incredible food, especially their burgers. The talented chef is American, and this café is popular among expats.
The nightlife and bar scene in Umalas is just as impressive. Sip on a cocktail while watching the sunset over the rice paddies or the ocean just minutes from Umalas. Many local and international DJs play at the beach bars close to Umalas, and if you wish to head into the busier and louder clubs, Seminyak is just a hop away.
The shopping in Umalas is second to none, with plenty of boutique stores offering unique homewares and clothes. The shopping scene in Petitenget, Canggu, and Seminyak is also fantastic. For those who wish to indulge in self-love, Umalas is also home to some world-class spas.
Schools around this area
If you have children who are going to school, look no further. Umalas and the surrounding areas are home to some of the best international schools in Indonesia. You can take your pick from:
- French International School in Umalas
They offer the French program. They have been around for more than 18 years and offer quality education.
- Australian International School in Kerobokan
It was the first school to offer education for children with special learning needs, and it also offers the International Baccalaureate program.
- Sunrise School in Kerobokan
Sunrise aims to educate children and develop them as a person. It offers education for children ages 18 months to 15 years.
- Sekolah Lentera Kasih and Lollypop Preschool in Kerobokan
SLK offers primary, secondary, and junior college, while Lollypop Preschool offers classes for toddlers, nursery, and kindergarten children.
- Montessori Bali School in Brawa
This school educates children through the Montessori system. Opening in 1998, Montessori Bali School caters to children from 3 to 12 years old.
- Canggu Community School in Brawa
Canggu School educates children to be lifelong learners, academically excellent, socially responsible, and effective communicators.
- Alam Atelier School in Brawa
Alam Atelier is about teaching the child outside of the classroom and connecting with the natural environment.
- The Garden of Early Learning in Brawa
Also, the Garden focuses on nature-based and playful education for preschool-aged children.
Umalas Climate
As Bali is located just south of the equator and has a tropical climate, conditions are hot and humid all year round. The average temperature is around 32°C or 85°F. However, it can get considerably cooler in the more mountainous regions, reaching as low as 15°C during the early morning hours. The island only has two seasons, wet and dry. The wet season is generally from November to April, and the dry season is from May to October. The dry season is categorized by a constant breeze blowing over the island, referred to during earlier centuries as the trade winds. During the rainy season, while there might be just a few days when the rain never stops, for the most part, showers are limited to an hour or two during the morning or afternoon, with the rest of the day being cloudy or sunny.
Owning a Property in Umalas
More than just a second or vacation home – buying luxury property in Umalas is a great way to diversify your investment portfolio with an affordable and high-yielding investment that offers unique perks and benefits. Owning a luxury villa in Bali is a dream for many people worldwide!
Whether modern or ethnic chic, with tropical ambiance or opulent vibes – you can get your dream house or property here. With so many options, Unreal will assist you in finding your perfect property in Umalas for your authentic Balinese getaway.