Travel Tips for Bali – Sanur Beach
As Bali’s oldest developed tourist destination, Sanur is recognized for the role it played in the islands’ renaissance. Despite heavy development and a large number of restaurants and hotels, it maintains a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Sanur is the perfect family destination, offering a quiet, peaceful beach during the day and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere at night.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Sanur is its large stretch of beach. A boardwalk-like walkway that spans about five kilometers allows visitors to casually stroll and explore, stopping whenever they wish for refreshments or a snack at one of the many beachside restaurants and cafes.
A large reef shelters Sanur’s beautiful white sand beach, resulting in calm surf that is perfect for beginner surfers and families with young children. Well-stocked bars and reasonably priced food and drink have made this area a popular evening destination for all sorts of tourists.
Located a short 20-minute drive from Sanur International Airport, the beach offers plenty of activities and interest for travelers. In July, the International Kite Festival brings color to the sky as thousands of giant kites are flown to ask the Hindu gods for help with the crops and harvest.
Visitors can discover what it was like to be an early expat in Bali at the Le Mayeur Museum. The Mangrove Information Center is located in the massive 600 hectare mangrove forest south of Sanur. Two boardwalks lead 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’s coast provides wonderful photo opportunities with plenty of food and refreshment stops along the way. Local night markets are a foodie’s delight that will engage 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 shipwrecks and coral reefs. Accredited PADI courses are available for beginners to instructors.
Most of the major hotels offer their own spa facilities and there are a number of independent spas and wellness centers in the region offering indulgence packages at a fraction of the price you’d pay at home. Before you indulge, you can take part in one of the many water sports options offered along the coast, including kitesurfing, windsurfing, paragliding or wakeboarding.
Where to stay in Sanur Beach:
Willie Nata 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 Balinese standards with only 4 villas in the complex offering a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy the peace and quiet from around $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 guest rooms, a large swimming pool and great dining at Benno’s restaurant. Prices start at $70/night.
Santrian Castle: This beachfront hotel on the quieter southern end of Sanur Beach offers two guest pools, a beach club and excellent in-house dining facilities. There is a choice of garden view rooms or beachfront bungalows, as well as several well-appointed apartments. Excellent value for money as rates start at US$95 per night.
Sanur Residences: A beautifully designed property offering 3 bedroom villas located directly on the beach approx 5 minutes north of Sanur. With three villas forming a 9-bedroom complex, the residence is regularly let for small groups, providing intimate, exclusive accommodation. A private swimming pool and wonderful amenities are provided with a full compliment of staff including a chef, maids and gardener. Villas are available from $180/night.
Villa Mahapala: A collection of twenty luxuriously appointed private villas, each with its own plunge pool, outdoor shower, daybed and massage ball. The resort offers a full spa, European-style bar and restaurant. Attention to detail and premium amenities from US$325/night.
Despite being the oldest of Bali’s tourist areas, Sanur still offers everything for even the most discerning traveller. Especially recommended for families, this picturesque coastal community is the perfect place for a relaxing and enjoyable stay in Bali.
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