In the heart of Poppies Lane II, Dekuta offers good value midrange stylish rooms in a triple-storey block wrapping around an inviting pool.

Air-con rooms are a welcome sanctuary from the busy streets with serene natural finishes, tiled or wooden floors and cool white walls. Glass fronted and light filled, with pool access or furnished balconies, most rooms overlook the pool, but some are streetside (so do request pool view when you book). Aside from comfy twin or double beds, facilities include flatscreen TVs, safety box, minibar and tea-making equipment. A few nicks and chips could do with a bit of maintenance, but otherwise the rooms and ensuite hot-water bathrooms are clean.

A few scuffs in the rooms, but overall still fine value at Dekuta. Photo: Sally Arnold

Pricier rooms offer marginally smarter decor than standard rooms, but the poolside ones we saw were lower than the raised pool deck and seemed a little dark; we’d go for a less expensive room on the higher floors with a balcony. The royal blue swimming pool is deep and long enough for a lap, but if you’re not feeling energetic, pull up a sun lounge on the deck (be quick as there’s only a handful) and order a drink from the cafe.

A terrific la carte breakfast is included in the rate from the attached Nebula Cafe, which is worth a visit even if you’re not staying for the best coffee in the area (they offer a blend from Seniman in Ubud) and excellent cafe-style meals. Try the all-black chicken burger, with black crumbed chicken and black garlic aioli on a charcoal bun (80,000 rupiah). When we stopped by they were offering a lunch deal that included a small beer with your burger. Other nearby eateries include the highly praised Fat Chow, almost next door.

Nebula Cafe is worth a visit even if you're not staying here. Photo: Sally Arnold

Staff are very friendly and helpful, and the location is minutes from Beach Walk Mall and the surf and sand. We think Dekuta is a decent option, however if minor maintenance issues are not attended to, it may become a little tired. We were surprised by the low occupancy when we dropped by, so if you visit in low season or plan on a longer stay, rates may be a tad flexible. If your budget is a little tighter, comfortable and cosy modern rooms are on offer at Serela Legian or if you prefer to share the pool with less bods, consider stylish Lemongrass Cottages.