How I Holiday: Chasing Waves And Creative Inspiration In Bali With The Founder Of Gentle Habits

Welcome to How I Holiday, a series of travel stories and recommendations shared by friends of Urban List from Aotearoa and Australia.

Sophie Marshall, founder of stunning scent and lifestyle label Gentle Habits, fell in love with Bali on a solo trip at 17 years old, where she hit the island's clubs. Now, her holidays look a little bit different, chasing waves and creative inspiration with her kids in tow. From sipping cocktails on a floating pontoon to spending days in silent self-reflection, Sophie's relationship with Bali is all about slowing down to make space for developing fresh blends of incense. Here, she shares where to find the best restaurants with a view, some stellar boutique shopping spots and why there's nothing like hitting the beach with her boys.

Why is Bali special to you?

Bali has given me so many core life memories over the years. From my first-ever solo trip at 17 (dancing in the old Sari Club) to now enjoying family surf holidays with my boys and taking inspiring creative work trips for my brand, Gentle Habits, Bali has always held a special place in my heart.

What’s a core memory you have from Bali?

Surfing with my sons, Duke (16) and Ace (10), and my husband—paddling out together and sharing an epic, fun-filled surf session—is something I’ll never forget.

Another core moment: I developed one of our best-selling incense blends, Immersion, during a family holiday in Nusa Lembongan. More recently, I created a scent called Bali Hai, part of our new incense collection, The Second Wave, inspired by the memories I've made on the island.

It’s the one place that continues to spark creativity and connection for me.

Where should people eat, drink, stay, and play in Bali?

We love staying in Nusa Lembongan. The dreamy setting and slower pace compared to mainland Bali make it ideal for unplugging and unwinding.

Stay:

• The Shacks at Sandy Bay—laid-back, beachy accommodation that feels like a true escape.

Eat & Drink:

• The Deck—perfect for lunch or dinner with a view.
• Sandy Bay Restaurant—home to one of the best meals I’ve ever had.
• The Pontoon by Lago—a floating pontoon where you can eat, sip cocktails, relax, and paddle off for a surf.

Wellness & Play:

• The Sundeck by Lago—day passes available for ice baths and saunas; highly recommended.
• Snorkel and swim with manta rays—an unforgettable experience.

What’s the best meal you’ve ever had in Bali?

The Tuna Steak at Sandy Bay Restaurant, paired with a dry Rosé and a beautiful sunset...nothing better.

What’s the best event on Bali’s cultural calendar?

I’ve experienced Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, when the entire island shuts down. It’s a day of quiet, self-reflection, and deep spiritual meaning. That stillness is incredibly grounding–and beautiful.

Where are the best spots to shop in Bali?

We love visiting our stockists, and I always find something for myself too:

• Stella—Nusa Lembongan + Canggu
• The Find—Uluwatu
• The Drifter Store—Seminyak