Sanur isn’t trying to be the loudest kid in class. It’s not out to compete with the cool crowd in Canggu or the spiritual pulse in Ubud. Sanur is that friend who’s got their life together, wakes up early, waters their plants, and sips a coffee during sunrise.
Choosing Sanur as your holiday base in Bali is a deliberate, calm, and deeply rewarding decision – especially if you want to feel Bali, not just check it off your bucket list.
Let’s explore why Sanur Bali is a smart pick for your Bali Destinations, what it’s really like to stay here, and how it compares to other areas. It might surprise you to find that there’s tons of things to do in Sanur.
What and Where is Sanur Bali?
Sanur is a coastal town on the southeastern side of Bali, and is part of Denpasar. It stretches along approximately 5 kilometers of coastline on the Bali Sea, bordered by the capital city to the west and the Bali Mandara Toll Road and Benoa Harbour to the south.
Sanur is one of the oldest resort areas in Bali, known for its early role in attracting international tourism before places like Ubud and Canggu rose to popularity.
Rather than being a standalone city, Sanur Bali is actually more of a beachside suburb or district that blends local residential areas with tourism infrastructure and facilities.
Sanur Bali Life: Laid-Back Elegance
Sanur Bali offers a calm and relaxed atmosphere that appeals to travelers looking for a slower, more comfortable pace of life in Bali.
It combines traditional Bali culture with modern conveniences, making it an ideal base for families, retirees, and long-term visitors.
You’ll often see locals making morning offerings (Canang Sari), parents walking young children, and expats cycling to their favorite Sanur cafe – this is everyday life in this part of town.
Unlike the busier, fast-paced areas like Canggu, Uluwatu, and Seminyak, Sanur focuses on comfort and community.
This complete Sanur Bali guide highlights how the town provides a more livable experience: quiet streets, walkable paths, and a consistence sense of safety and order.
If you’re looking for a destination in Bali where you can actually unwind, Sanur stands out as one of the most laid-back and accessible places in Bali.
Sanur Beach Life
Sanur offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative to Bali’s busier beaches. Unlike the other beach spots, Sanur’s coastline is peaceful and low-key.
Sanur’s beaches face east, which means soft morning sunrises, instead of harsh afternoon heat. Thanks to a long reef offshore, the waters here are calm and shallow, making Sanur Bali a top choice for families, casual beach lovers.
One of the main features that sets Sanur apart from the rest is its breachfront path – a 5 km paved walkway that stretches along the coastline.
This scenic route connects various parts of Sanur, from the quiet resorts in the south to the busier northern beach areas near Sindhu and Segara Ayu. It’s the perfect path for a jog!
Best Time to Visit Sanur?
Sanur Bali is a year-round destination, but certain times of year offer better weather, fewer crowds, and more enjoyable experiences overall. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season so you plan your stay with confidence.
Dry Season
Dry season in Bali is the most popular season to visit. It runs from April until October and it’s everyone’s preferred time to stay in Bali. If you’re looking for picture-perfect beach days and ideal outdoor conditions, this is your widow.
- Sunny days, lower humidity, and gentle sea conditions
- Ideal for sunrise walks, beach days, and outdoor dining
- Great time for water sports and boat trips
Peak Season
Bali’s peak season is usually July and August, the summer holiday months. These two months bring the highest number of visitors to Sanur. It’s a very energetic time to visit but you’ll want to book your drivers and hotels early. Expect accommodation prices to be slightly higher.
- Most popular months for international visitors
- Expect busier beaches, fully booked villas, and higher prices
- Lively atmosphere, with more events and crowds
Shoulder Months
If you’re aiming for that perfect balance between good weather and fewer people, these months are your sweet spot. May, June, and September is when everything is still open and vibrant – just without the high season rush.
- Fewer crowds and better deals
- Excellent weather
- Perfect balance between atmosphere and tranquility
Rainy Season
Wet Season in Bali has its own charm but is obviously not ideal for beach lovers. It still offers warm temperatures, lush scenery (Bali’s rice terraces look stunning), and a much quieter experience. Just pack an umbrella and manage your expectations.
- Warm temperatures with higher humidity
- Intermittent downpours
- Less ideal sea conditions for snorkeling
- Good for tourists looking for better deals on hotels and villas
- A quieter time in Bali
Parts of Sanur: Where to stay?
Although Sanur Bali is relatively small, it still has small pockets of personality around town. Here’s a quick breakdown of its main areas so you know where you’re mostly likely to fit in:
Central Sanur
The Jalan Danau Tamblingan strip is Sanur’s buzzing backbone, lined with hundreds of cafes, Indonesian restaurants, artisan gelato shops, and boutique stores selling tropical clothing. It’s the most developed part of Sanur – but not in a “concrete jungle” way. Central Sanur maintains a laid-back charm with tree-lined streets.
Many mid-range and upscale hotels in Sanur are based here, along with clusters of villas and homestays. It’s also ideal for families thanks to its walkability, beach access, and proximity to conveniences like Bali ATMs, pharmacies, and spas.
⭐ Ideal for: First-timers, families, older couples, short stays, mid-term stays.
South Sanur
The south end of Sanur is around Mertasari Beach area. This area is more chill and maintains a blend of local and foreign vibe.
Think daily walks on the beach, clean roads, expat families, and tons of space. It’s also a great spot for surfing among fewer crowds.
Southern Sanur has a few beachfront resorts but is mostly known for long-term rentals, peaceful villas, and holistic centers offering reiki, massage, and morning sound baths.
The beach here is wider and less crowded, great for early morning swims or a quiet sunset.
⭐ Ideal for: Digital nomads, beginner surfers, long-stay travelers,
North Sanur
The area around Sindhu and Padanggalak (or Padang Galak) is considered North Sanur. This is where Sanur Bali shows off its roots.
Sindhu is the gateway – still part of the tourist scene, but slower-paced, with traditional markets like Sindhu Night Market, charming beach warungs, and a quieter version of the beachfront promenade.
Just a bit further north is Padanggalak, where grassland and rice fields meet the ocean and giant open fields host kite festivals and community events.
Accommodation here leans more towards villas and guesthouses than resorts, and you’re more likely to be woken up by roosters than a revving NMAX scooter.
⭐ Ideal for: Cultural explorers, return visitors, peaceful beach walkers
Which part of Sanur is the Best?
It depends on your preference. If you want walkable convenience, chic cafes, and polished beachfronts – go North. If you’re after peace and a touch of authentic flavor – head South. If you can’t decide, Central Sanur gives you a bit of both with easy access to both ends. It’s a small town anyway.
Who is Sanur Bali for?
I won’t beat around the bush (or palm tree) – Sanur Bali isn’t for everyone. But if you’re the kind of traveler who values calm, comfort, and coast vibes over chaotic traffic and beach parties, this is it.
Families with Kids
Sanur is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Bali. The sea is calm thanks to the offshore reef, which breaks up big waves and keeps the water shallow near the show – ideal for young children.
There are plenty of beachfront cafes with high chairs and kid-friendly menus, and the 5-kilometer beach walkway is perfect for strollers or a slow family bike ride.
Retirees seeking peace
Sanur has long been a favorite among retirees and older folks – both short-term and permanent residents. It offers a slower pace of life without feeling isolated.
The medical facilities in and around Sanur are excellent, with some of the best international clinics, pharmacies and hospitals in Bali.
Daily life is easygoing here: think morning walks on the beach and relaxed cafe vibes. There’s also a strong sense of community, with plenty of social events, hobby groups, and long-term expat networks.
Couples Seeking a Romantic Escape
Sanur Bali is where you go when you want quality time together – without the beach clubs blasting techno.
The sunsets might be on the better on the other side, but the atmosphere here is pure gold: quiet beachfront dinners, candlelit tables, traditional Balinese performances, and plenty of places to spoil yourselves.
Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary, or just want a break from the world, Sanur offers romance without the cliché.
Solo Travelers
If your version of a good time involves sipping on an iced coffee while journaling on the beach sand, Sanur Bali will feel like home for backpackers and solo travelers.
The area is safe, walkable, and filled with cozy, comfortable cafes, art shops, and social spaces. It’s quite easy to meet like-minded travelers here – especially at yoga studios, co-working spaces, or language classes.
⚠️ Keep in mind: If you’re backpacker or traveling on a budget, Sanur doesn’t have the greatest selection of budget accommodations like hostels and dorms.
Digital Nomads
While Canggu and Ubud are competing with each other for the digital nomad hub crown, Sanur quietly offers something many digital nomads crave: Balance.
It has reliable Wi-Fi, several co-working cafes, and a growing remote worker community – but without the distractions of nightlife and overcrowded streets.
You can work in the morning with a beach view, take a midday swim in the ocean, and enjoying a beachfront dinner without fighting for a seat.
So, who is Sanur Bali really for?
If you’re already reading this Sanur Bali guide, it’s your sign that you’re craving somewhere in Bali that’s not just beautiful, but liveable.
It’s for travelers who want their holiday to feel like a gentle exhale – peaceful, practical, and still full of that Bali charm.
How to get around Sanur Bali
Sanur may be chill, but you’ve still got places to be and beach bars to conquer. Here’s how to get around Sanur with the best transportation methods – from “luxuriously easy” to “great…if you have time.”
Private Car and Driver
If you want to experience Bali on your own terms, book a private car and driver with us. It’s the most comfortable, flexible way to explore not just Sanur, but pretty much anywhere on the island. It’s perfect for families, friend groups, or anyone who doesn’t want to spend the trip yelling at Google Maps. Bonus: my drivers know all the secret spots.
- ✅ Private, air-conditioned SUV
- ✅ 10 hours (or more) of time
- ✅ Friendly, Balinese driver
- ✅ Flexible itinerary and schedule
- ✅ Fuel & taxes included
- ✅ No hidden fees
Renting a Scooter in Sanur
If you’re staying in Sanur solo and you’ve got experience on two wheels, renting a scooter in Bali is good way to venture out on your own. It’s a quick and easy way to zip around Sanur and beyond. Parking is easy and scooter traffic is fairly chill. Remember: wearing a helmet is not optional.
If you’re looking for the best scooter rental in Sanur, Bikago is the most reliable option. You can reserve your scooter online and have it delivered to you, and picked up at the end of your rental period. Helmets are also included in your rental.
Taxis in Sanur
Metered Bali Taxis exist…sort of. You’ll spot Bluebird taxis occasionally but getting one to stop in Sanur can feel like a mission. Pricing also tends to vary wildly if you’re grabbing a non-metered cab, so unless you love bargaining or surprise, I suggest a more predictable option.
Public Transport
Technically, Bali’s public transportation system, Teman Bus, does have a few routes going through Sanur. The keyword here is few. The routes are limited and schedules aren’t always clear. For now, it’s more of a cheap alternative if you have time to get lost on your own.
By Foot
If you’re staying near the beach or around Jalan Danau Tamblingan, walking is totally doable and sometimes enjoyable (depending on distance). Sanur’s flat layout and shady sidewalks (a rarity in Bali) make it one of Bali’s most walkable areas. However, I don’t recommend long walks in the midday sun.
Things to do in Sanur Bali
Sanur may be known for its laid-back vibe, but don’t let that fool you—there’s more here than just beachside restaurants and quiet streets. Whether you’re after culture, nature, wellness, or a bit of local flavor, Sanur offers a wide variety of experiences that suit travelers of all ages and styles. Here are a few things to do in Sanur:
Visit Icon Bali Mall
A recent addition to the best shopping malls in Bali, this is a pemier shopping and entertainment destination. Icon Bali Mall spans a whopping 32,000 square meters with a blend of international and local retail brands.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: 10am – 10pm, Daily
- Location: Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.27
Eat at Sindhu Night Market
Sindhu Night Market (Pasar Sindhu) is one of the best night markets in Bali due to its massive selection of local food to try. This is your chance to dive right into the local food scene and try dishes for as little as $1.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: 5pm – 10pm, daily
- Location: Jl. Pungutan No.2
Catch the Sunrise
Sanur is famous for its sunrise due to the east-facing coast. Wake up early, grab a cup of coffee on the beach, and enjoy the orange sunrise over the calm waters.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Sunrise hours: 6 – 6:30am, daily
- Location: Sunrise Beach
Explore the Abandoned Festival Park
For the explorers, here’s your chance to explore an abandoned festival park near the beach. Expect tons of bushes, graffiti, and broken down buildings.
- Entrance fee: IDR 20,000
- Opening hours: 7am – 7 pm, daily
- Location: Jl. Padang Galak No.3
Ride bicycles on the beach
This is an absolute must during your time in Sanur. It’s a very similar experience to being in Gili Trawangan (where there are no motor vehicles, only bicycles).
- Bicycle rental price: Approx. IDR 25,000
- Hours: All day, every day
- Location: Find small rental shops along the beach
Explore the Cafe Culture
Cafes in Sanur reflect Sanur’s vibe – chill, charming, and a bit of vintage. It’s less flashy and more laidback. Here are some of the most popular Sanur cafes:
- Genius Cafe Sanur – Jl. Kusuma Sari
- Over the Moon Cafe – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.19
- The Porch Cafe – Jl. Danau Tamblingan no.110
Best Beaches in Sanur Bali
If you’re hunting for a beach in Sanur, you won’t have a hard time. While most of Sanur’s beaches connect to each other, each have their own character and charm, with something different to offer.
At almost all of the beaches (Pantai) below, you can find local vendors renting bicycles at about IDR 25,000 per hour. It’s a wonderful ride if the beaches aren’t crowded.
- Sunrise Beach – Also known as Pantai Matahari Terbit Sanur, this is the most northern of the popular beaches in Sanur.
- Pantai Segara Ayu – A few minutes south of Sunrise Beach. Usually crowded and hard to find parking on weekends.
- Pantai Sindhu – Home to Sindhu Night Market (Pasar Sindhu) and a small turtle conservation centre, Sindu Dwarawati Turtle Conservation.
- Pantai Karang – Best for paddle boarding and IG photos. Known for its picturesque gazebo.
- Pantai Semawang – Unbelievably calm waters on some mornings, with crystal clear waters. Semawang Beach is known to have hundreds of traditional fishing boats (jukung).
- Pantai Mertasari – Furthest south. Beautiful corner with a local vibe, especially during kite flying season. Make your way to Genius Cafe for a popular, trendy food spot.
Where to eat in Sanur
From beachfront cafes serving smoothie bowls at sunrise, to candelit Italian bistros dishing out wood-fired pizzas, there’s something in Sanur for every palate. Here is a short list of some of the best restaurants in Sanur:
- Warung Mak Beng – Jl. Hang Tuah No.45 – One of the most famous seafood restaurants in Bali located right on the beach.
- Massimo Italian Restaurant – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.228 – The most popular restaurant in Sanur and quite possibly one of the most popular in all of Bali with a whopping 15,000 Google reviews.
- Genius Cafe Sanur – Jl. Kusuma Sari – Popular beachside spot on Mertasari Beach.
- Warung Baby Monkeys – Jl. Sundamala No.6 –
- Bakso Balung Pak Rebo – Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai No.444 – This is your chance to try some Bakso, a popular Indonesian meatball soup.
Nightlife in Sanur
Nightlife in Sanur Bali is far more relaxed compared to the party areas in Seminyak and Canggu. Here, evenings are about sunset cocktails, live bands, and a few rounds with mates.
Most of the action starts early and winds down by midnight. The vibe is casual, welcoming, and often centered around live music, especially along Jalan Danau Tamblingan and the beachfront boardwalk.
You’ll find cover bands, open mic nights, and some surprisingly good talent playing everything from reggae and jazz to classic rock and pop.
Here are a few of the best bars in Sanur to explore the nightlife scene:
- Casablanca – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.120 – Quite possibly the liveliest bar in town with live music and events on a nightly basis.
- Soul on the Beach – Jl. Pantai Sindhu – Beachfront bar and restaurant with cocktails, decent happy hour details, and occasional live music.
- Lola’s – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.148 – A craft beer bar just down the street from Casablanca.
- Bamboo Beach Bar & Lounge – Jl. Cemara – A bit of a fancier vibe. Great cocktails for sunset.
Again, Sanur isn’t the place for all-nighters and after parties. It’s more suitable for visitors who prefer a sociable evening with a few drinks, maybe some dancing, and a peaceful journey back to the hotel rather than a taxi at 4am.
Sanur Hotels: Where to stay
Sanur Bali offers a diverse mix of accommodation options that cate to just about every type of traveler, from budget backpackers to luxury-seeking couples. Unlike areas with big resorts, Sanur’s hotel scene leans toward low-rise beachfront resorts, charming boutique stays, and private villas.
For your consideration, here is a selection of some of the best hotels in Sanur that’s popular among Bali visitors:
- Hyatt Regency Bali – Check rates
- The 101 Bali Oasis Sanur – Check rates
- Segara Village Hotel – Check rates
- Sudamala Resort, Sanur Bali – Check rates
- Prime Plaza Hotel Sanur Bali – Check rates
- Prama Sanur Beach Bali – Check rates
- Respati Beach Hotel – Check rates
- The Meru Sanur – Check rates
- Abian Harmony Hotel – Check rates
Lifestyle Amenities in Sanur
🏦 Money Changers in Sanur
Finding decent money changers in Bali can be a pain in the rear. Fortunately, you’ll have some of the good ones here. Here are some of the more reputable money changers in Sanur
- Sunrise Money Changer – Jl. Matahari Terbit Blok 8
- Padi Mandiri Rate Money Changer – Jl. Danau Buyan No.73
- MPB Money Changer Sanur – Jl. Tamblingan Lake no.50
🏥 Hospitals and Clinics in Sanur
There’s one major hospital in Sanur with another massive one currently being built. Other than than, you’ll find a few clinics. See my full list of hospitals in Bali.
- Bali Mandara Hospital – Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai No.548
- Bali Royal Hospital – Jl. Tantular no.6 (Renon, Denpasar)
- Sanur Medical Clinic – Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai no.243
- Bhakti Vedanta Medical Clinic – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.117
🏋️♂️ Gyms in Sanur
Gym culture isn’t as vibrant in Sanur as it is in places like Seminyak and Canggu, so you’ll have a handful to choose from. If none of these suit your style, there are plenty of gyms in Renon nearby. Here are some of the best gyms in Sanur:
- Fitness Plus Sanur – Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai
- Fit24 – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.21
- Prime Gym and Spa – Jl. Hang Tuah No.46
- Angels Gym – Jl. Sedap Malam No.531
- Energy Gym – Jl. Tirtanadi No.17
💆🏼♀️ Spas in Sanur
There are a few spas in Sanur where you can spoil yourself. Some are standalone and others are part of a resort or hotel.
- Spa at Maya Sanur – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.89M
- Koa Shala – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.77A
- The Nest Boutique Spa – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.31
🛒 Supermarkets
You won’t have as many supermarkets here as your selection of supermarkets in Seminyak. However, Pepito and Grand Lucky will get the job done. Here are the best supermarkets in Sanur:
- Pepito Market Sanur – Jl. Cemara no.27
- Market City – Icon Bali Mall
- Grand Lucky Sanur – Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai No.240
- The Pantry – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.75
🛒 Tattoo Studios
Like the other amenities above, Sanur isn’t exactly known to be the place where people go to get tattoos done. If you’re really looking for more reputable studios for tattoos in Bali, find tattoo studios in Canggu, Seminyak, Canggu, or Ubud.
- Segara Ink Tattoo Sanur – Jl. Pantai Sindhu No.10
- Holly Ink Tattooshop – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.88
- AMS Tattoo Studio Sanur – Jl. Danau Tandakan No.2
💈 Barbershops
If you’re in need of a fresh trim for your Bali holiday, there are a few barbershops in Sanur that are quite skilled in their craft.
- Bali Barber & Spa Sanur – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.152C
- Balis Barber – Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai No.50xx
- Brahm’s Barbershop. – Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.30a
- Barber Sanur Bali – Jl. Danau Buyan No.43
Sanur Harbour
Sanur Harbour is the main departure point in southeast Bali for fast boats heading to the nearby islands, particularly Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. It’s on the north side of Sanur near Sunrise Beach.
Unlike older setups where you need to board the boats from the sand, the new harbour in Sanur is somewhat of a modernized pier and ticketing system. It’s also easily accessible from most parts of Sanur in under 15 minutes.
Key points to know about Sanur Harbour:
- Boats to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan run frequently throughout the day.
- The journey takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on sea conditions and destination.
- Tickets can be booked online or directly at the harbour.
- There’s a IDR 20,000 harbour fee paid in cash at a separate counter before boarding.
- Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and lining up.
What’s nearby Sanur Bali?
Sanur is sneakily well-located, and this Sanur Bali guide wouldn’t be complete without raving about a places you can easily access nearby. That said, you can still go on day tours for 10 hours and be back in time for a beachfront dinner.
Bali Airport
Bali Airport to Sanur will be a 30-40 minute drive, depending on traffic. While it’s not in the immediate vicinity, it’s much closer than Ubud and some parts of Canggu.
Denpasar
Bali’s capital city is just 10-15 minutes away. Sanur is actually part of Denpasar. Just a quick ride away you’ll find a traditional markets, massive shopping malls, and a local vibe. There’s a few museums, pars, and even a few Bali temples hidden within the city
Ubud
Being just 40-45 minutes away, you can easily experience the best of Ubud with an Ubud Day Tour from Sanur. You can always head slightly east to find some of the best waterfalls in Bali. In short, you don’t need to stay in Ubud to experience Ubud during your stay.
Nusa Penida, Lembongan, and Ceningan
Visiting one of the Nusa Islands is a must if you’re staying in Sanur. The most popular day trip is our Nusa Penida Day Tour which includes optional snorkelling. You’ll be back by the end of the day.
East Bali
From Sanur, you’re closer to East Bali that you think. East Bali is home to some of Bali’s most scenic and spiritual spots – Besakih Temple, Sidemen, Amed, and Candidasa. For a full day experience, see our East Bali Day Tour.
Seminyak
If you’re looking for something trendy with a good selection of nightlife spots, Seminyak delivers. This is the older sister of Canggu, with upscale nightclubs, fancy restaurants, fashion boutiques, sports bars, and sleek day clubs.
Kuta
As Bali’s original tourist hub, Kuta always has something for you – malls, markets, knock-off luxury goods, and tons of surf schools. You may not stay long, but if you’re craving a bit of old-school Bali beach vibe and want to relive your backpacker phase from 2005, this is the place.
What to pack for Sanur Bali?
Your Bali packing list for Sanur is all about staying cool, sun-protected, and comfortable dressed for a tropical climate. Since the vibe is relaxed and beachy, there’s no need to bring formalwear – unless you’re planning a few nights out fine-dining in Sanur.
- Lightweight clothing – Think breathable fabrics – linen shirts, cotton dresses, swimwear, cover-ups, etc
- Footwear – Bring sandals or flip-flops for the beach, and a pair of comfortable walking shoes for exploring the beach path, markets, and going on day tours.
- Sun protection – Sanur gets plenty of sunshine. If your skin is sensitive, High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat is the way to go
- Essentials – You’ll need a adapters for your laptops, phones, and camera gear. (Read my guide on getting the right Bali power plugs).
- Mosquito repellent – In every tropical country, mosquitos seem to love foreigners.
If you forgot to pack anything from the list above, you can easily find them around shops and supermarkets in Sanur.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Sanur Bali
Let’s keep it real. No destination is perfect, not even this coastal gem. Here’s the brutally honest Sanur Bali guide breakdown. Hopefully this will settle your inner debate.
Pros:
- Calm, relaxed atmosphere: Sanur’s peaceful vibe is a major plus. You won’t find chaotic traffic.
- Walkable beach paths: The 5-km paved path along the beach is one of Sanur’s biggest perks. Ideal for walks, jogs, and bike rides.
- Epic sunrises: If you’re a morning person and you want to start your day with a quiet, golden beach view, Sanur’s east-facing coast is unbeatable.
- Family-friendly: With calm waters, chill lifestyle, and low traffic, Sanur is perfect for families with kids.
- Senior-friendly: Sanur has always been the ideal place for seniors in Bali
- Swimmable, clean beaches: Thanks to the protective reef offshore, Sanur’s waters are calm all year round.
- Easy access to other islands: Grab a fast boat at Sanur Harbour for a day trip to the Nusa Islands
- Good infrastructure: Roads are well-maintained and clean.
- Less traffic: While there is some congestion during rush hours, Sanur has less traffic than Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu.
- International standard healthcare: Tons of clinics and hospitals around town.
- Relatively close to Bali Airport: Just a 30-minute drive. 40-45 minutes if there’s traffic.
- Less tourist traps: Compared to tourist-heavy areas, Sanur has less aggressive street vendors and fewer inflated tourist prices.
- Culture still intact: Despite being fairly developed, Sanur still feels like old Bali.
- Mature Dining Scene: While not as trendy as Canggu cafes, Sanur has a strong culinary range – from beachfront seafood spots to traditional Indonesian warungs.
Cons
- Limited nightlife: Not much when it comes to nightlife. Most bars go up until midnight. If you’re looking for massive parties until early morning, you will be disappointed.
- Less trendy: Fewer trendy spots and “Instagrammable” places than Ubud or Canggu. But you won’t have a hard time finding something post-worthy.
- Older demographic: Sanur is popular with the more seasoned folks, which can feel too quiet or slower for younger travelers looking for a social scene.
- Not great for surfers: The calm waters are great for swimming, so unless you’re still learning, Sanur’s waters aren’t ideal for surfing.
Final Verdict: Should you stay in Sanur Bali?
If you want Bali without the burnout, consider Sanur Bali. It’s peaceful without being boring, beautiful without being pretentious, and built for longer, intentional travel.
You won’t find bumping beach clubs here (except a few loud bars) – but you will find morning ceremonies, welcoming locals, actual sidewalks, and a beach path where everyone’s in a good mood.
Whether you’re a family seeking safety, a digital nomad in need of some headspace to work, or a solo traveler who prefers the slow life over techno, Sanur Bali might just be your perfect match.
FAQs about Sanur Bali
Is Sanur in Bali worth staying in?
Yes – Sanur is absolutely worth staying in, especially if you’re looking for a laid-back coastal town with calm beaches, a strong local community, and easy access to other parts of Bali.
How long should I stay in Sanur?
It depends on how much time you have in Bali. You can choose to stay in Sanur for the entirety of your trip and visit other areas from there, or spend 3-5 days and move on to another destination.
Is it nice to stay in Sanur?
Sanur is know for its peaceful atmosphere and well-kept beaches. Accommodations have a wide range and the dining scene is a neat mix of local warungs and international cuisine
Is it better to stay in Seminyak or Sanur?
This depends entirely on your travel style. Seminyak is trendier, busier, and better for nightlife and shopping. Sanur is quieter, more traditional, and better for relaxation, sunrises, and beach walks. There is less to do in Sanur than things to do in Seminyak.
Is there much to do in Sanur Bali?
Yes, but it’s more low-key than places like ubud or Canggu. The many things to do in Sanur include water sports, shopping, yoga, art galleries, and a few museums.
Is it Safe to go to Sanur at night?
Sanur is one of the safest areas in Bali, even after dark. The streets are quiet but well-lit, and there’s a noticeable sense of community. Just use basic travel common sense.
Can you walk around Sanur?
Sanur is one of the most walkable areas in Bali. You can easily stroll from one end of town to the other and passing all the popular spots in between. It’s also great for jogging and cycling.
Here are some useful resources for your Bali trip
Neil
I’ve been in Bali for so long I’ve grown roots (literally and metaphorically). For the past 10 years, I’ve experienced Bali from every angle. I’ve explored the temples, I’ve tried all the food, and I’m proudly fluent in the Indonesian language. I hope our website helps you get an authentic experience for your holiday in Bali, whether you’re here to enjoy the finer things in life, or to learn more about Bali’s rich culture.
