Check out our exclusive interview with talented entrepreneur Jesse Waits, who once hailed as the King of Nightlife in Vegas and has been the mastermind behind some of the most iconic destinations in the entertainment world as the managing partner of the award-winning nightclubs XS and Tryst at Wynn. As the head of Wynn Nightlife, Jesse not only curated unforgettable experiences but also set unprecedented standards in the nightlife industry.
Transitioning from the dazzling lights of Vegas to the tranquil shores of Bali, Jesse is now channeling his expertise and passion into a groundbreaking wellness project, 11•11. Nestled in the embrace of Bali’s natural beauty, 11•11 is not just a retreat; it’s a holistic journey towards self-discovery, wellness, and connecting with one’s inner self in the most profound ways.
Follow Jesse @jessecwaits & @1111.bali
Hi Jesse, the last time we spoke for an interview, you were the king of Vegas nightlife. But now you are living in Bali with a new amazing project. Please tell us the timeline of this and why you moved to the other side of the world.
My timeline for 1111 is approximately 18 months, which is the third quarter of 2025.
The reason I moved to Bali was because I grew up in Hawaii. I felt like this was much more of a home for me, being on a tropical island. When I first visited Bali in 2019 with a group of friends, I fell in love with the island, the culture, the people, and the communities of wellness, which is a passion for me. I decided to make the move during the pandemic and 2021, when the world was on hold but Bali was still a special bubble or nothing was an interrupter.
Tell us about 11•11 Bali. (BTW, Looks amazing!!)
1111 is a 50,000-square-foot private members wellness complex with a fine dining restaurant, a 10,000-square-foot jam rooftop café, a Pilates room, three different types of saunas, cold plunges, mineral baths, and a biohacking facility. We also have a coworker lounge that, during the day, is placed to work and by knight turns into a lively bar for members only.
Bali is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. How does your project address environmental sustainability and conservation efforts?
I’d like to explain first I started a foundation here with my friend Will Henke, who is a pillar in the community and owns the most successful fitness facility in Bali. We pulled the community together to clean the area of trash, the sidewalks, and the bridges to keep the integrity of Uluwatu intact to the best of our ability.
For the 1111: Our construction project in Indonesia’s Uluwatu is a testament to sustainable building practices, harmonizing modern design with locally sourced, environmentally friendly materials. Bamboo, a rapidly renewable resource indigenous to the region, forms the backbone of our structure, while reclaimed teak wood contributes to both construction and furniture, embodying the principles of sustainable forestry. The use of Ramino Stone, an indigenous stone, not only adds to the aesthetics but also minimizes transportation emissions. Rattan, a fast-growing material abundantly found in Indonesia, is employed for furniture and decorative elements, adding a touch of natural elegance. Stone sourced locally enhances our commitment to sustainable construction. Our construction techniques include passive solar design, natural ventilation strategies, while bamboo reinforcement offers a sustainable alternative to steel. Rainwater harvesting systems and solar water heaters underscore our commitment to resource conservation. Prefabrication techniques minimize waste, and natural finishes contribute to improved indoor air quality.
Through these conscious choices, our construction project seeks to exemplify sustainable development that respects the local environment and supports a circular economy.
Can you explain the concept behind the wellness sanctuary aspect of your project? How do the facilities and services specifically cater to the wellness lifestyle?
Our individual lifestyles served as the inspiration for our project’s concept. My family and I are passionate about our wellbeing. Spending 25 years in Vegas was a mental, physical, and emotional challenge for me, and going to Bali was a natural transition from my hospitality background to pursue something I enjoy.
Wellness and Bali are community-driven, starting in the villages of the Balinese, which creates an environment for everyone. Over the last three years, we’ve evolved our project to put everything we felt as a synergy to each other to work as one for Wellness concept hotel condos we can host retreats
What makes the eight exclusive condo units stand out in terms of design and amenities? How have you ensured privacy and exclusivity for the residents?
Each condo hotel unit is meticulously crafted to embody the essence of luxury penthouses, while also capturing the authentic Balinese living experience. Complete with private patios and pools, these units offer a homely atmosphere through fully equipped kitchens, ensuring that residents feel comfortably settled. The opulence and convenience akin to living in a five-star hotel simultaneously elevate the ambiance. The design, perfected over two years, seamlessly integrates into the local environment, striking a balance between understated elegance and the lavishness one would expect from a modern upscale hotel.
To guarantee privacy and exclusivity for our residents, we provide round-the-clock concierge service, a front desk, a bellman, valet parking, and 24-hour security. Each condo is designed to offer complete seclusion, with orientations that face the tranquility of nature, ensuring a serene and peaceful living.
Could you detail the types of wellness programs and activities that will be available to residents? How do these programs enhance the overall living experience?
Our property is thoughtfully designed to exude the warmth and elegance of a beautiful residence. At the heart of our wellness programs and activities is a state-of-the-art gym, featuring 50 workstations, which seamlessly transitions into a stunning rooftop pool and café area. Wellness facilities in this area include mineral plunge pools, icy cold plunges, a Himalayan salt room, an infrared sauna, a steam room, a dry sauna, dedicated Pilates and yoga rooms, and a biohacking office. Additionally, our property boasts a 100-seat fine dining restaurant, an exclusive members’ lounge, and an inviting lobby with retail options. Both the jungle and ocean can be viewed from our breathtaking rooftop, offering a unique perspective on the natural beauty surrounding our property
Living in our condos elevates the residential experience by integrating wellness into every facet of life. Our comprehensive wellness center enriches the daily lives of our condo owners. This isn’t just a residence; it’s a community hub where a healthy lifestyle is the collective ethos. You are in the company of people who share your commitment to nutrition, fitness, and well-being.
In developing the wellness sanctuary, what sustainability practices have been implemented? How do these practices support the health of the environment as well as the well-being of the residents?
In the creation of the 1111 Wellness Sanctuary, sustainability is at the core of our philosophy, intertwining eco-conscious practices with the well-being of our residents. We have employed renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to power our facilities, reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring that our residents’ lifestyles are supported by clean energy.
Water conservation is also a key element; we utilize rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems to maintain our lush landscapes and replenish our mineral plunge pools. This not only preserves precious water resources but also creates a natural and toxin-free environment for our residents to thrive in.
Our building materials have been carefully chosen for their low environmental impact and non-toxic properties, contributing to better indoor air quality and overall health. The sanctuary’s design maximizes natural light and ventilation, minimizing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning, which further enhances energy efficiency and creates a harmonious living space that aligns with nature’s rhythms.
Moreover, our on-site organic café sources locally grown produce, supporting local agriculture and reducing food miles. This practice not only bolsters the local economy but also provides our residents with the freshest and most nutritious ingredients, promoting a healthy diet as part of their wellness routine.
By integrating these sustainable practices, 1111 Wellness Sanctuary not only protects the environment but also provides a haven where residents can live in alignment with nature, fostering both ecological health and personal well-being.
How will the local community benefit from your development? Are there any community engagement or support initiatives included in the project plan?
At the heart of 1111 Wellness Sanctuary, sustainability and resident well-being are interwoven through eco-friendly initiatives. Renewable energy sources like solar panels power the complex, while water conservation is achieved via rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling, nurturing our verdant surroundings and supporting our natural mineral pools. Non-toxic building materials ensure superior indoor air quality, and the architectural design optimizes natural light, enhancing energy efficiency. Our commitment extends to nourishment, with an on-site organic café featuring locally sourced produce that bolsters community agriculture and ensures fresh, healthy food for our residents. These conscientious practices not only safeguard the environment but also create a harmonious living space that promotes the holistic health of our community.
Bali has a rich cultural landscape. In what ways does your project respect and integrate Balinese cultural elements into its design and operations?
Our project honors Bali’s heritage by incorporating traditional Balinese architectural elements and artistry. Local artisans have contributed to the aesthetic, ensuring that each aspect reflects the island’s cultural identity. We also engage with the community through cultural events and partnerships, embedding local customs into our guests’ experiences.
What are the major challenges you’ve faced during the development of this project, and how have you addressed them?
Navigating environmental regulations and ensuring minimal ecological disruption were significant challenges. We addressed these by working closely with local authorities and environmental experts to adhere to best practices, prioritizing the preservation of Uluwatu’s natural beauty.
Who is the target market for your project? Are there specific features or services designed to appeal to this audience?
Our target market includes eco-conscious travelers and wellness enthusiasts. Features like our organic café, yoga studios, and holistic wellness programs cater to those seeking a health-oriented retreat while respecting the environment.
Can you discuss the expected economic impact of your project on the local area? How will it contribute to Bali’s economy?
The project is anticipated to boost local employment, sourcing, and tourism. By hiring locally and procuring goods from Balinese suppliers, we’re injecting capital directly into the community, fostering economic growth that benefits residents.
Beyond this project, do you have any future plans for additional developments in Bali or elsewhere? How does this project fit into your larger vision?
Our construction project in Uluwatu, Indonesia, reflects our dedication to sustainability and community engagement. Together with local fitness leader Will Henke, we’ve initiated efforts to maintain the area’s beauty, including trash cleanup. The 1111 utilizes eco-friendly indigenous materials like iron wood & teak, prioritizes local resources such as Ramino Stone, and incorporates rattan for decor. Our building methods emphasize environmental harmony with passive solar design, natural ventilation, and bamboo as a steel alternative. We also implement rainwater collection and solar heating to conserve resources, while prefabrication and natural finishes reduce waste and enhance air quality, showcasing our commitment to a sustainable and circular economy.
Any advice to entrepreneurs or real estate developers that want to follow your steps out there?
My advice would be to always lead with your values. In real estate development, especially within the wellness niche, authenticity and commitment to your vision will resonate with your clients and set you apart. Understand the local culture and environment deeply to create projects that are both respectful, innovative, and something you have a passion for.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
“Start With Why” by Simon Sinek is a must-read for any entrepreneur. It emphasizes the importance of knowing why you do what you do, which is crucial when navigating the complex journey of entrepreneurship.
What is the key to your success?
The key to success has been a steadfast focus on work ethic, honesty, your word defining your character, and surrounding yourself with similar people who are on the same path. For myself, the intersection was for wellness, and by not compromising on these core elements, we will be pillars of our success, which has been mine in the past.
What was the hardest career decision you ever had to make?
Leaving the nightlife industry was by far the hardest decision I had made, after 20+ years of building my career from the very bottom to peaking in my industry and giving up all the benefits & money. I don’t think anyone will ever understand. Making the real changes for happiness is ultimately fulfilling. My only regret is not making that choice sooner and moving to Bali.
How do you manage a very busy work life while still giving time to your family?
It’s all about setting boundaries, finding balance, and being present. When I’m at work, I give it my all, but when I’m with my family, I make sure to disconnect from work completely. This balance keeps me grounded and ensures that neither aspect of my life is neglected.
If you could start all over again, what would you do differently?
While hindsight is always clearer, every step, including missteps, has been a learning opportunity. Perhaps I would take more risks earlier on, leaving when I realized Las Vegas wasn’t a place and trusting my instincts more; however, each experience has shaped the business philosophy I hold today.
As a popular entrepreneur, you are followed by so many people. How do you feel about the pressure to always do the right thing and encourage people to follow their dreams?
The pressure is certainly there, but it’s also a privilege. It’s an opportunity to lead by example and inspire others. My hope is that by sharing both successes and failures transparently, I can encourage others to pursue their passions with resilience and integrity.
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
Helping people feel better about themselves and enjoying seeing them happy and healthy.
Who will be on your bucket list to work with?
People I love creating and enjoy being around.
How would your best friend describe you?
Kind, giving, genuine, ambitious, hardworking, generous, and well-spoken.
What is your own definition of happiness?
My family and people around me are happy.
What is next for Jesse Waits in 2024?
Building our own home for family. Ground up. Developing a dream project. Building our own community and working hard on other projects.
Something people don’t know about you.
My father was a hippie who, after being drafted into the military for the Vietnam War, chose a life of simplicity upon his return. He met my mother, and they settled in a remote area on the island of Molokai to live off-grid and sustain themselves on the land. I grew up in a treehouse devoid of electricity and utilities, splitting my time between California and living off the land in our yurt in Molokai until I moved to Las Vegas at the age of 21.
Who was your role model as a child?
My Father.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Dalai Lama.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Steak & eggs.
And your favorite cheat food?
Pizza.
Which project is still on your bucket list?
After completing 11:11 build a wellness community around the world to give them a place to be a better version of themselves.
In five years from now, where do you see yourself and your career?
5 years from now, I see myself with multiple wellness projects 11:11. Continuing community building for people who like wellness.
Do you support any charities?
I manage a foundation in Bali named ‘Innsaei,’ which translates to ‘The Sea Within.’ Together with a group of friends, we are dedicated to cleaning up the streets and bridges in Uluwatu. Additionally, we collaborate with local communities to provide food and essential supplies to the elderly.
What do you like to watch on TV?
Living in Bali, everything is about outdoor activities so I don’t watch TV, but if a good movie comes out, I love to go see it in the theaters.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Take my wife to the sauna and take a cold plunge at the istana, coffee with my wife & friends; late breakfast; then play padel.
What do you think of social media?
I have mixed feelings, I think it is a powerful place for marketing but people need to come back to the fundamentals of reality or they can lose.
Where can we follow you?
@1111.bali Instagram
