Sanur is a tranquil and family-friendly destination in Bali, Indonesia, renowned for its gorgeous sunrise views and laid-back atmosphere.
This picturesque seaside town on the southeastern coast of Bali was one of the first tourist hubs in the area, and it continues to attract visitors with its charming hotels, shopping, and delicious breakfast options.
Plus, it’s a great spot to get a massage and take a day trip to the Nusa Islands. Check out our Sanur travel guide to discover the best activities to do in the area!
Are you interested in discovering the secret gems of Sanur? Beyond the well-known tourist spots, there are also many hidden treasures waiting to be found in Sanur.
From hidden temples and cultural landmarks to off-the-beaten-path dining and shopping experiences, there is so much to explore in Sanur.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through Sanur and reveal some of the lesser-known, yet equally exciting, parts of this charming destination. So let’s start exploring and uncover the hidden gems of Sanur!
Where is Sanur Bali?
Sanur is a coastal beach located east of Denpasar in southeast Bali, about a 30-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
It has developed into its own small town over time. The name “Sanur” is pronounced “sah-noor” in Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia).
It is a well-known tourist destination known for its gorgeous beaches, rich culture, and many activities and attractions.
One of the main reasons people visit Sanur Bali is because of its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, which makes it a perfect place to relax and escape the busyness of daily life.
Sunbathe on the beach, visit ancient temples and cultural landmarks, or just appreciate the beautiful surroundings are just a few examples of how people or tourists usually do in the area.
| Sanur Bali | |
|---|---|
| Country | Indonesia |
| Province | Bali |
| City | Denpasar |
| Time zone | UTC+08:00 |
How to Get to Sanur: Get There from Wherever You are!
The most common way to reach Sanur Bali is by flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport (also known as Denpasar Airport), which is located about 15 miles south of Sanur.
From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Sanur, or even hire a rental car, which will take about 30 to 45 minutes. You can also get to Sanur by taking a ferry from Java or Lombok, or by taking a bus from Denpasar.
The distance between Denpasar’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) and Sanur is 16km. To travel from the airport to Sanur, you can take a taxi, bus, shuttle bus, Bluebird Taxi, or Go-Jek Motorbike Taxi or GrabBike.
From Denpasar’s airport to Sanur would cost around IDR 100,000 by bus or taxi. It could be cheaper if you decide to take Go-Jek or GrabBike.
Editor's Note
But it’s important to note that it would be safer to take only the officially-managed transportations to avoid getting ripped off of suddenly increased cost.
Where to Stay in Sanur, Bali?
There are several highly-rated hotels and resorts in Sanur Bali that are popular with travelers. Previously, we have published an article about the best Bali hotels, which will be a helpful reading if you decide to explore more destinations in Bali.
Some options to consider on where to stay in Sanur Bali include:
Hyatt Regency Bali
This upscale resort is located on the beachfront in Sanur and offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and villas. Amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, spa, and multiple dining options.
Akana Boutique Hotel
Situated in the center of Sanur, this hotel offers a variety of room types and amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and spa. It is within walking distance of the beach and several restaurants and stores.
Kubu Indah Homestay Sanur
This 4-star hotel is located on the beachfront in Sanur and offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and villas. Amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Respati Beach Hotel
This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Sanur and offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and villas. Amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, spa, and multiple dining options.
Mercure Resort Sanur
Located in the center of Sanur, this hotel offers a variety of room types and amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options. It is within walking distance of the beach and several restaurants and stores.
There are many other hotels and resorts to choose from in Sanur Bali, and the best option for you will depend on your budget, preferences, and travel needs. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and room types when deciding on a place to stay in Sanur Bali.
Other Top 20 Hotels to Stay in Sanur, Bali
InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort, an IHG Hotel
Sanur Beach, Sanur
5 (205 reviews)
7.6
How to Get Around Sanur: Your Local Friend’s Travel Guide
If you’re staying in the Sanur Beach or Danau Tamblingan street area, most things are within walking distance.
However, if you want to travel a short distance within Sanur, you can take a Bluebird taxi, although the prices may be higher for tourists.
Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Go-Jek, which tend to be cheaper. Local taxis in Sanur generally don’t have any issues with these apps, unlike in Ubud where there may be more resistance from the local taxi industry.
If you want to explore outside of Sanur, you’ll need to rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver, which can both be booked online.
If you have a local friend, renting a scooter will be much quicker and easier, also cheaper. Renting a car or scooter is a great way to explore the area and get around quickly.
You can also arrange an airport transfer from the Bali airport to Sanur with your hotel or through an online booking service.
Is Sanur walkable?
Definitely, Sanur is very walkable town, and safe. You will find exciting places along the road.
Where can I hang out in Sanur?
If you want to spend time in Sanur, there are many options available. Some popular choices include Sanur Beach, where you can relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, and watch the sunset.
There are also many bars, restaurants, and cafes in the area, such as La Plancha, La Taverna, and The Beach House. If you’re interested in local culture, you can visit the markets, temples, and art galleries in the area.
At a glance, here are some among the tops hang out places:
- Afterwork.
- Tapha
- Sanur Beer Garden
- Pantai Lilla (Lilla Beach)
- Lola´s Beer & Kitchen Sanur
- Cemara Beach
- Taman Inspirasi Mertasari
- Padang Galak Beach
- And more, which we will discuss later in this article.
Where to Eat in Sanur Bali
Sanur Bali has a variety of dining alternatives, with something to suit every taste and budget. Traditional Indonesian cuisine such as nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles), as well as seafood collected fresh from the surrounding waters, are local favorites.
There are also many international dining alternatives, such as Western, Chinese, and Japanese food.
When looking for economical and high-quality meals in Sanur Bali, explore local warungs (food booths) and small, locally-owned restaurants, which can provide exceptional value for money.
Your Sanur Bali Travel Guide: 20+ Best Things to do in Sanur that You Need to Experience at Least Once in a Lifetime
Are you planning a vacation to Sanur, Bali? Look no further for the perfect travel guide! Our list of the top 20+ best things to do in Sanur includes a variety of unique and memorable experiences.
With so much to do, this is a trip you won’t want to miss. Here’s a quick list of things to do in Sanur:
- Swim at Sanur Beach or enjoy the sunrise from there.
- Explore the local markets and shops for souvenirs and homemade items.
- The Le Mayeur Museum is devoted to the work of Belgian artist Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur.
- Take a boat cruise to see the surrounding islands and aquatic life.
- Visit the Pura Blanjong temple, which houses ancient inscriptions and a Balinese culture museum.
- Learn how to make traditional Balinese meals by enrolling in a cooking class.
- Visit the gorgeous coral reefs and marine life by snorkeling or diving.
- Visit the Bali Bird Park, which is home to approximately 1,000 birds representing 250 different species.
- Visit the Bali Marine and Safari Park to witness elephants, lions, and tigers, among other species.
- Relax with a massage or other treatments at one of the many spas or wellness centers in the region.
- Enjoy Sanur boardwalk.
- Enjoy Sanur Bali Festivals.
- Release those sea turtles to their habitats.
- Enjoy every Sanur beach club.
- Meet the ‘greens’ by visiting the various Sanur rice fields.
- Taste the local Balinese foods at Sindhu Night Market, and enjoy some other exciting activities there.
- From parasailing, jet skiing, banana boats, etc, enjoy every watersport there is.
- Taste different types of cuisines at the most popular restaurants.
- Don’t forget to purchase those Sanur’s Pod Chocolates.
- Chill out at Plaza Renon Mall.
- Enjoy the creepy and spooky side of Sanur at Taman Festival.
- Visit the Bajra Sandhi Monument, one of the most popular Hindu monuments in Bali.
- Explore Bali Zoo.
- And more.
Let’s break down the best things to do in Sanur Bali.
1. Enjoy the Sunrise or Swim on the Most Popular Sanur Beaches
Sunrise at Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach is a beautiful place to swim and soak up the sun. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunrise, as it faces east.
The beach has a long stretch of sandy shoreline and is lined with palm trees, making it a scenic spot to spend the day.
There are also plenty of nearby restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
The most popular beaches in Sanur are:
- Pantai Sanur (Sanur Beach)
- Pantai Cemara (Cemara Beach)
- Pantai Taman Inspirasi Mertasari (Taman Inspirasi Mertasari Beach)
- Pantai Padang Galak (Padang Galak Beach)
- Pantai Sawangan (Sawangan Beach)
- Pantai Pandawa (Pandawa Beach)
There are a lot of spots to watch sunrises. Just chill out drinking beer is also enjoyable.
2. Explore the local markets and shops
Sanur’s local markets and shops are the perfect place to discover unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
From clothing and jewelry to artwork and beyond, there’s a wide range of items to browse and purchase.
Many of these items are crafted by local artisans and are truly one-of-a-kind – take a piece of Bali home with you!
As you shop, you’ll also have the chance to interact with the locals and learn more about their culture and traditions.
3. Visit the Popular Le Mayeur Museum
For art aficionados visiting Sanur, the Le Mayeur Museum is a must-see. It is dedicated to the work of Belgian artist Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur, who lived in Bali for many years and was inspired by the local culture and surroundings.
The museum houses a collection of Le Mayeur’s paintings, as well as personal mementos and photographs from his life and work.
4. Take a boat cruise to see the surrounding islands and aquatic life
f you’re looking for a boat tour to take in the sights of Sanur, Bali, there are a few companies that provide the opportunity.
You can explore the nearby islands, snorkel with the bizzarre marine life, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
Some of the tour companies that offer this experience are Bali Hai Cruises, Bali Marine Safari, and Bali Hai Cruises Dolphin Tour.
5. Visit the Pura Blanjong temple
Pura Blanjong is a temple in Sanur that houses ancient inscriptions as well as a Balinese culture museum.
The temple is thought to be Bali’s oldest and is a major cultural and historical site. The museum houses a collection of items and information on the island’s history and culture.
6. Learn to Cook Balinese Cuisines
If you love cooking, then a Balinese cooking class is a must-do activity while in Sanur. In this fun and interactive class, you’ll work with a local chef to learn about the ingredients and techniques used in traditional Balinese dishes.
Not only will you pick up some new culinary skills, but you’ll also get a chance to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.
So why not add this unique experience to your itinerary and bring a taste of Bali back home with you?
7. Snorkeling and Diving in Sanur Bali
Sanur Bali is an excellent snorkeling and diving location. Sanur’s warm, clear waters are home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, coral reefs, and the occasional sea turtle.
The Sanur area has a wide range of diving opportunities, from shallow reefs to deeper wrecks.
Snorkelers and divers can explore the shallow reefs, while snorkelers and divers can explore the deeper depths.
There are several dive centers and tour companies in the area that offer various snorkeling and diving activities.
8. Visit the Bali Bird Park
Bali Bird Park Sanur Bali is a world-class bird park located in Sanur, Bali. It is home to more than 1000 birds from 250 species, including rare and tropical species from around the world.
The bird park is divided into several sections, including a walk-in aviary, a free-flight aviary, a breeding area, and a nursery.
The park also includes a restaurant and a souvenir shop. The park offers educational programs and activities for visitors, such as bird feeding and bird watching.
9. Visit the Bali Marine and Safari Park
The Bali Marine and Safari Park Sanur Bali is a large park featuring a variety of marine life and safari animals, as well as various attractions and activities.
The park is home to over 200 species of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
Visitors can explore the park via a variety of activities, such as boat rides, safari tours, and animal shows.
The park also features a variety of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, making it a great spot for a family outing.
10. Relax with a massage or other treatments
Sanur is a beachside town in Bali, Indonesia that is known for its stunning sunrises, vibrant culture, and abundance of spa and massage options. Some of the most popular spas and massage parlours in Sanur include:
- The Beach Spa: Located on the beachfront, this spa offers a range of treatments from traditional Balinese massage to body scrubs and wraps.
- Spa Bali: This luxurious spa offers a variety of treatments from reflexology to aromatherapy.
- Bali Spa: This spa is renowned for its Balinese massage and herbal treatments.
- The Spa at the Grand Bali Beach Hotel: This spa offers a range of treatments from traditional Balinese massage to body scrubs and wraps.
- Bali Botanica: This spa offers a range of treatments from traditional Balinese massage to body scrubs and wraps.
- Bali Royal Spa: This spa offers a range of treatments from traditional Balinese massage to body scrubs and wraps.
11. Enjoy Sanur Boardwalk
In Bali, Indonesia, the Sanur Boardwalk is a popular place for tourists to go. It is right on the beach at Sanur Beach and is one of the most visited places in the area.
The boardwalk is a great place to take a stroll and look at the beach, the ocean, and the many shops and restaurants along the way.
The boardwalk is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening to take in the sights and learn about the culture of the area.
12. Enjoy Sanur Bali Festivals
A number of entertaining seasonal festivals are held in Bali’s Sanur region. These are open to the public for free, making them a terrific outing for families and anybody interested in learning about Balinese arts and culture.
The main Sanur festivals listed below are worth attending:
- Bali Kite Festival occurs in July or August. Every year, hundreds of artistic kites take to the skies at this festival in Sanur as part of a fun competition. Sanur has ideal weather for kite flying since Bali receives nice, strong breezes from the east from May through September, when Indonesia is in its dry season. The festival’s major event is typically held in July or August, and you can witness all kinds of enormous and unusual kites, some of which can reach lengths of 100 meters or more!
- Sanur Village Festival (August). Since 2006, Sanur Beach has hosted this event each year, which showcases Balinese cuisine, art, and culture. Even the colorful “jukung” fishing boats compete in a traditional boat display.
- Bali Arts Festival (July/June). This Indonesian arts festival, which began in 1979, is sometimes referred to as PKB or Pesta Kesenian Bali. It is observed annually, and the festival takes place in Denpasar City, which is only ten minutes away from Sanur. The grand procession that takes place on the festival’s first day, complete with magnificent Balinese costumes and music, is its main attraction.
13. Release those sea turtles to their habitats
Although it’s not as frequent as the turtle release at Kuta Beach, if you’re lucky, you could occasionally be able to attend one at Sanur Beach.
Olive ridley sea turtles still occasionally lay their eggs at Sanur and other beaches in Bali, hence it is necessary to remove them to protect the eggs from raptors and beachgoers.
With a gift, you can release the young into the water once they hatch. It’s a good family activity that also helps Bali’s efforts to conserve sea turtles.
The Turtle Conservation and Education Center (TCEC) on the nearby island of Serangan, which receives funding from the WWF and has been working on sea turtle repopulation and education in Bali since 2006, is the source of this activity.
At least once or twice a month, groups of newborn sea turtles are released somewhere on Sanur Beach. Releases of turtles often take place from June through August, but they can occur at any time of the year.
Asking around at Genius Cafe or Byrdhouse is your best choice if you want to participate; they can probably let you know when the next turtle release in Sanur will take place.
14. Sanur Beach Clubs
Sanur Beach in Bali, Indonesia is home to several beach clubs that offer a range of activities and amenities. Some popular options include:
- Bali Beach Club: This beach club is located right on the beach and offers a variety of food and drink options, as well as live music, DJs, and other entertainment.
- The Sands Beach Club: This beach club is located on the north end of Sanur Beach and offers activities such as beach volleyball and yoga classes.
- The Beach House: This beach club is located on the south end of Sanur Beach and offers a range of activities including beach volleyball, live music, and DJs.
- The Beach Club Bali: Located on the west end of Sanur Beach, this beach club offers activities like beach volleyball, live music, and DJs.
- The Beach Club Sanur: Located on the east end of Sanur Beach, this beach club offers a variety of activities including beach volleyball, live music, and DJs.
15. Visit Various Rice Fields in Sanur Bali
The terraced rice paddies are a distinctive characteristic of the Sanur region and a significant contributor to the local economy.
The rice fields are irrigated with water from neighboring rivers and streams, and the farmers cultivate the land using traditional methods.
The fields are popular tourist destination since they are surrounded by beautiful tropical flora. The area’s traditional Balinese architecture and culture are major highlights.
16. Taste the local Balinese foods at Sindhu Night Market
The Sindhu Night Market is a terrific place to start if you want to sample the flavors of Bali. This night market in the famed Sanur region is a terrific place to try some of the local Balinese cuisine.
From sate lilit (minced fish satay) to nasi campur (rice with several side dishes), there is a wide range of meals to tempt your taste buds.
There are also lots of appetizers and desserts to choose from, such as bakso (meatballs) and pisang goreng (fried banana). The Sindhu Night Market has something for everyone, whether you want a little snack or a full supper.
17. Enjoy Sanur Bali’s Watersports
There are numerous watersports activities to choose from if you want to enjoy them.
- Parasailing is an excellent method to get a bird’s-eye perspective of the water. You are dragged behind a boat while hooked to a parachute, allowing you to soar over the waves.
- Jet skiing is an exciting way to explore the ocean. You can ride a personal watercraft around the coast and appreciate the machine’s speed and agility.
- Banana boats are a fantastic way for a group of friends to explore the water. A giant inflatable boat is towed behind a boat, and you can ride the waves by holding on to the sides.
- Kayaking is an excellent method to explore the waters at a leisurely pace. You can explore the rivers and lakes or paddle along the coast.
- Snorkeling is an excellent approach to discover the underwater world. Swim among the reefs and look at the gorgeous aquatic life.
- Windsurfing combines the thrill of sailing with the exhilaration of surfing. A sailboard allows you to capture the wind and ride the waves.
These are only a few of the watersports available. Other activities include wakeboarding, water skiing, and others. So get out there and have some fun in the water!
18. Taste Different Kinds of Cuisines at Restaurants
Sanur Bali’s most prominent restaurants serve a wide array of delectable cuisines. From traditional Indonesian meals to foreign delights, there is something for every traveler’s taste buds. Sanur Bali, with its various eateries, is an ideal location for discovering new cuisines.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic supper or a casual lunch, the most popular restaurants in Sanur Bali serve wonderful meals.
Every time you visit, you can have a different culinary experience, from seafood to Italian fare. Sanur Bali, with its breathtaking scenery and local culture, is an ideal location for discovering new cuisines.
19. Pod Chocolates Sanur
Sanur Pod Chocolates are a delectable and one-of-a-kind chocolate dessert made in Bali, Indonesia.
These chocolates are famous for their rich flavor and creamy texture, and are made with a blend of cocoa beans and indigenous spices.
The chocolates are available in a range of flavors, such as coconut, ginger, and vanilla, and are frequently adorned with beautiful and tasty decorations. Sanur Pod Chocolates are sold at specialty stores and online.
20. Chill Out at Plaza Renon Mall Sanur Bali
Plaza Renon Mall Sanur Bali is a popular shopping center for both residents and visitors. It has a diverse selection of stores, restaurants, and entertainment opportunities.
The mall is centrally placed in Sanur, near to the beach and other attractions. It has two levels of shopping with a wide range of foreign and local brands.
There is also a food court, a theatre, and a playground for children at the mall. Plaza Renon Mall Sanur Bali is the ideal spot to spend an afternoon due to its accessible location and wide range of stores.
21. Taman Festival Sanur
Taman Festival Sanur is a yearly cultural event in Sanur, Bali that showcases traditional Balinese art, music, and dance.
The festival attracts visitors from around the world and is held in the late summer or early fall. During the festival, there are numerous performances, workshops, and exhibitions to enjoy.
Some of the highlights include traditional Balinese dance performances, music concerts, and craft markets.
The festival is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Balinese culture and traditions, and to experience the local community. If you’re visiting Sanur during the festival, it’s definitely an event you won’t want to miss.
22. Bajra Sandhi Monument
Located in Denpasar, Bali, not too far away from Sanur, the Bajra Sandhi Monument is a popular tourist destination that honors the struggles and sacrifices of the Balinese people.
The monument is shaped like a traditional Balinese musical instrument called a bajra and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Inside, visitors can explore exhibits and displays that showcase the history and culture of Bali, including artifacts and relics from the past.
The Bajra Sandhi Monument is a great place to learn more about the island’s history and culture, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Denpasar.
23. Visit the Popular Bali Zoo
Bali Zoo, located in Singapadu, around 42 minutes by driving from Sanur, is home to approximately 500 species from all over the world, making it an ideal site for you and your family to learn more about nature.
You may encounter Sumatran elephants, orangutans, bearcats, Bengal tigers, and African lions, among other animals, here. Simply walking around the zoo area will bring you into contact with many creatures who are delighted to meet you!
Sanur Bali Travel Guide: Explore Sanur with Our Insider Tips and Tricks
When visiting Sanur Bali, keep the following practical tips in mind. To begin, it is critical to respect local norms and traditions, such as dressing modestly and being mindful of religious sensitivities.
It’s also a good idea to be mindful of safety precautions, such as not walking alone at night and keeping expensive goods protected.
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Finally, it is important to plan ahead of time because prices in Sanur Bali are high.
Here are actionable tips and tricks for visiting Sanur Bali by our insider:
Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing
Sanur has a tropical climate, so it’s best to pack clothes that are breathable and suitable for the weather. Consider materials like cotton, linen, and rayon.
Don’t forget sunscreen
Sanur is known for its sunny days, so it’s important to protect your skin from the sun. Make sure to pack a high SPF sunscreen and reapply it frequently.
Try local cuisine
Bali has a unique and delicious cuisine that you won’t want to miss. Some must-try dishes include babi guling (roast suckling pig), nasi goreng (fried rice), and sate lilit (grilled minced meat skewers).
Respect local customs
Bali is predominantly Hindu, so be mindful of local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly, removing your shoes before entering temples and homes, and following other cultural customs you may encounter.
Check out the beach clubs
Sanur Beach has several beach clubs that offer a range of amenities and activities. Consider visiting one of these clubs to enjoy the beach in style.
Explore the markets
Sanur has local markets and shops where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs. Take some time to visit these markets and interact with the locals.
Rent a bike or scooter
Sanur is a small area, so it’s easy to get around by bike or scooter. Consider renting one of these modes of transportation to explore the area and visit nearby attractions.
Learn some basic Indonesian phrases
While many people in Sanur speak English, it’s always appreciated when travelers make an effort to learn some basic Indonesian phrases. A few useful phrases include “terima kasih” (thank you), “apa kabar” (how are you?), and “tidak” (no).
Where to Go Next?
While you’re already in Sanur Bali, try to find the best and most suitable Bali hotels to stay, or explore Nusa Penida Bali.
If you have more time to spend in Indonesia, you must visit Pink Beach Komodo Island, Padar Island, and Labuan Bajo which are located in the eastern Indonesia. You’ll find distinctive places to enrich your traveling experience.
