Inside The Cali Villas: A Love Letter to Bali with a California SoulTucked into a quiet pocket of Canggu, The Cali Villas is a sun-drenched blend of laidback charm, bold design, and thoughtful detail — the kind of place that makes you exhale the moment you arrive. But this isn’t just another Bali boutique with a pretty pool. It’s the product of years of connection, care, and collaboration — with roots that run deep.
“Our connection to Bali grew organically over years of visiting,” says founder Tess Keddie. “When we spotted this land in Canggu in 2019, the area was still developing, but we saw an opportunity to create something unique.”
That vision took shape slowly but with intention. “We wanted to offer a different aesthetic option while still honouring the incredible craftsmanship and hospitality that makes Bali special,” Tess explains. “Our amazing Balinese team member, Titi, was instrumental in bringing our vision to life. We've been fortunate to become part of Canggu's growth story alongside so many local businesses.”
There’s no recipe behind The Cali’s aesthetic — just a distinct, California-inflected energy filtered through the lens of Balinese artistry. “Our design draws inspiration from various influences, including mid-century modern elements and colourful, Palm Springs inspired touches,” says Tess. “We worked closely with local craftspeople to bring these ideas to life, with all our furniture custom-made in Java.”
And though the final product is effortlessly cool, it came from plenty of trial and error. “It's been a learning journey for us, understanding how to balance different design elements while still creating spaces that feel connected to their surroundings.”
While the sunken lounges, breezy bedrooms and pastel accents definitely photograph well, it's the warmth and soul behind the service that leaves a lasting impression. “What sets us apart is definitely our incredible team,” Tess says. “We're really proud that we've kept almost all of our original staff since opening, which is pretty rare in hospitality.”
That kind of consistency is felt in every guest experience — the warm welcomes, the local tips, the little moments that stick. “For us, it's all about genuine connection, helping our guests experience Bali in a way that's meaningful and respectful.”
Tess has created an environment that supports growth behind the scenes too: “We’ve focused on building a workplace where our team can grow and develop, which has given us this amazing family feel and incredibly low turnover.”
Step through the doors at The Cali and there’s an immediate shift — a mix of polished design and casual ease that feels both elevated and lived-in. “We want guests to walk in and immediately feel both wowed and relaxed, like they've discovered this beautiful, secret spot that's also super comfortable.”
The signature touch lies in the details — thoughtful, original, and impossible to replicate. “I think what makes The Cali feel extra special is that everything is custom and unique just for us – including our sunbeds that we get messages about every day with people wanting to buy them.”
And if you’re traveling with kids, you’re still in for a treat. “Having children has also helped us understand the importance of spaces that welcome families while still feeling special. We offer the privacy of villas but with hotel perks like room service, an onsite concierge and round the clock security.”
Curated recommendations form part of the experience, and Tess’s list is solid gold.
“I absolutely love sending our guests to Times Warung on Canggu Beach, you can actually walk along the beach straight from The Cali and grab one of their comfy bean bags with a coffee and croissant while watching the waves roll in.”
For dinner? “Numero Quattro in Echo Beach is a must-visit, and I'm completely obsessed with Revolver's cherry kaffir lime cooler – honestly the most refreshing drink in Canggu.”
With the kids in tow, it’s all about ease. “When Tim and I have the kids with us, Mason is our go-to family spot. The food is consistently good for everyone, which is so important when you're dining with little ones.”
And for something dialed up? “Skool on Canggu Beach offers stunning higher-end Asian cuisine in a beautifully designed space. And if you're willing to venture just a 5-minute drive from Canggu, Shelter in Pererenan is absolutely worth it for their incredible Mediterranean-inspired menu. The flavours there are next level.”
Opening any hospitality concept is a feat. Doing it mid-pandemic? That’s a whole other level. “We managed the entire project remotely through WhatsApp with our Balinese partners, I think there were over 3,500 images sent back and forth during that first year,” Tess recalls.
But the payoff has been worth it. “We offer English classes and career development for our team, and it’s been pretty amazing to see our staff take pride in what we've built together and watch them grow professionally.”
And the guest love is real. “Seeing positive reviews and having returning customers year after year also makes all of the stress of being a founder worthwhile.”
So, what’s next?
“Later this year we're opening our second property, The Huntley, which we’re really excited about,” she shares. “After maintaining such high occupancy without marketing, we know there's demand for what we're creating. Our dream is to become a name people specifically seek out when planning their Bali trip, a true destination brand.”
Tess Keddie may have come to Bali as a visitor, but The Cali Villas tell a story of staying — and building something with intention, soul, and a sun-kissed sense of style.