Travel tips for Bali – Sanur Beach

As Bali’s oldest developed tourist destination, Sanur is renowned for the role it played in the islands’ renaissance. Despite the strong development and the large number of restaurants and hotels, it maintains a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Sanur is the ideal family destination, offering a quiet, laid-back beach during the day and a casual, friendly appeal at night.

One of the nicest aspects of Sanur is its vast expanse of beach. A boardwalk-like path that covers about three miles allows visitors to stroll and explore casually, stopping whenever they like for a snack or snack at one of the many beachside restaurants and cafes.

A large reef protects Sanur’s beautiful white-sand beach, resulting in low-key swells that are ideal for beginners and families with small children. Well-stocked bars and decently priced food and drinks have made this area a popular nightlife destination for all kinds of tourists.

Located just a 20-minute drive from the international airport, Sanur beach offers plenty of activities and interest for travelers. In July, the International Kite Festival fills the skies with color when thousands of giant kites are launched to ask the Hindu gods for help with crops and harvests.

Visitors can find out what it must have been like to be one of the first expats to Bali at the Le Mayeur Museum. The Mangrove Information Center is located in the huge 600-hectare mangrove forest south of Sanur. Two walkways guide visitors through an educational look at mangroves and the important role they play in the ecological balance of the area.

A five kilometer path along Sanur beach offers wonderful photo opportunities with many stops for food and snacks along the way. The local night markets are a foodie’s delight that will captivate your senses and whet your appetite.

Sanur is one of the best places on the island to start your daily diving expeditions. Countless operators provide tours to various dive sites around Bali, including wrecks and coral reefs. PADI accredited courses are available for beginners through instructors.

Most major hotels offer in-house spa facilities and there are several independent spa and wellness centers in the region that offer indulgent packages at a fraction of the price you’d pay back home. Before enjoying yourself, you can take part in any of the water sports options available along the beach, such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, parasailing or wakeboarding.

Where to stay in Sanur beach:

Villas of Natah Bale: Traditional Balinese style 1 and 2 bedroom villas, each with its own private entrance, open plan living and dining area with full service kitchen. This property is small by Bali standards with only 4 villas in the complex offering a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy peace and quiet from around US$95/night.

Pondok Ayu Hotel: Another small boutique property with exceptional service and comfortable amenities. This award-winning budget hotel is set in beautiful tropical gardens and offers air-conditioned rooms, a large swimming pool and fabulous dining in Benno’s restaurant. Prices start at US$70/night.

Puri Santrian: This beachfront hotel at the quieter southern end of Sanur beach offers two guest pools, a beach club and excellent dining facilities. A selection of garden-view rooms or beachside bungalows are available, as well as some well-appointed suites. Excellent value for money as rates start at US$95 per night.

Sanur Residence: A beautifully designed property offering 3 bedroom villas located directly on the beachfront approximately 5 minutes north of Sanur. With three villas forming a 9-bedroom complex, the residence is regularly rented out to small groups providing intimate and exclusive accommodation. A private pool and wonderful amenities are provided with a full complement of staff including chef, maids and gardener. Villas are available from US$180/night.

Villa Mahapala: A collection of twenty luxuriously appointed private villas, each with its own plunge pool, outdoor shower, chaise lounge and massage area. The resort offers a full-service spa, a bar, and a European-style restaurant. Attention to detail and first class amenities from US$325/night.

Although it is the oldest of Bali’s tourist districts, Sanur still offers everything for even the most discerning traveler. Particularly recommended for families, this quaint beachside community is perfect for a relaxing and enjoyable stay in Bali.