Sanur Travel Guide (South Bali/Bali/Indonesia/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Sanur, a charming seaside town on the southeastern coast of Bali, Indonesia, has been a favorite of tourists and expats for generations. The tranquil white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and spectacular sunrises are just some of the reasons why people flock here. Whether you’re on a romantic holiday, a solo adventure, or a family vacation, Sanur has something for everyone. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the best things to see and do, top places to stay and eat, tips for getting around and staying safe, and much more!

Introduction to Sanur

Sanur is a laid-back, family-friendly beach town located just a short drive from the airport in Denpasar. It stretches for five kilometers along Bali’s southeast coast and boasts some of the best beaches on the island. The town still retains its traditional charm with narrow winding streets, small local shops, and a plethora of sea-facing bars and restaurants. Unlike its neighbor Kuta, Sanur is a peaceful and chilled-out beach town that attracts visitors looking for a more authentic Balinese experience.

List of Places to Visit in Sanur

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sanur has a rich cultural and historical heritage. Visiting these places not only connects you with the past but also gives you a deep understanding of the local Balinese culture. Some of the must-visit historical places in Sanur are:

Le Mayeur Museum: This small museum is dedicated to the work of Belgian painter Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur, who settled in Sanur in the 1930s. The museum is housed in Le Mayeur’s former home and is famous for its stunning collection of Bali-themed paintings and artifacts.
Bajra Sandhi Monument: This iconic monument, located in Denpasar, is a tribute to Bali’s struggle for independence from foreign occupation. It features 33 dioramas that narrate Bali’s history from prehistoric times to the present.
Pura Blanjong Temple: A small 10th-century temple located in Sanur’s northern end. It has a historical significance as the oldest known written artifact from Bali was found here, the Blanjong Pillar.

Natural Attractions of Sanur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sanur is blessed with some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in Bali. From pristine beaches and crystal waters to rolling hills and lush forests, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had. Some of the top natural attractions in Sanur are:

Sanur Beach: This 5 km long white sandy beach is a haven for those who love water sports such as surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. The beach is dotted with many beachfront restaurants, cafes, and bars, perfect to watch the sunrise or sunset.
Sanur Mangrove Forest: This dense forest is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and is perfect for nature lovers. Traverse it by renting a kayak or taking a guided tour by boat, as well as discovering various species of birds and animals

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sanur

Sanur is not known for its hikes or bike routes; there are several options to explore nearby areas:

Sindhu Beach to Sanur Beach: A 3.5 km path is ideal for cycling or walking to enjoy the sea’s beauty.
Pantai Segara Ayu: This beach walkway is perfect for an early morning workout or evening stroll, surrounded by luscious gardens.

Best Things to Do in Sanur: Activities and Tours

Sanur offers many experiences, and you can’t miss out on these amazing activities and tours:

Scuba Diving: Dive into a brand new underwater world of exotic marine life and coral reefs that surround Sanur’s sea floor.
Snorkeling: Located in the southeast, Sanur is a hub for tropical fish, turtles, and other marine life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sanur

Day 1-2: Enjoy the beaches in Sanur, discover local cuisine, and visit the night market for some little shopping. Day 3: Bike ride from Sanur to the nearby island of Nusa Lembongan, a paradise resort of beaches and crystal clear waters. Day 4: Explore Ubud – The cultural heart of Bali, sit back in a cafe, and relax surrounded by rice fields and artisan stalls. Day 5: Discover the volcanic beaches and temples on Bali’s northeast coast. Day 6: Surfing Lesson and enjoy the amazing sunsets. Day 7: Relax in a spa, get a traditional Balinese massage, and explore Souvenir shops.

Food and Drink Scene of Sanur

Sanur boasts an impressive culinary scene, with local dishes and international cuisines. Some of the must-try dishes are:

Must-Try Dishes

Babi Guling (Roast Suckling Pig): A Balinese speciality, featuring roasted pig stuffed with Balinese spices and served with rice and vegetables.
Nasi Campur (Mixed Rice): A rice dish served with spicy shredded chicken, beef, shrimp and vegetables, fried tofu or tempeh, and fried egg.

Local Beverages

Arak: A local distilled spirit made from fermented rice or palm sugar with a strong taste and high alcohol content.
Bintang Beer: A popular beer common throughout Indonesia and hot tropical parks, perfect for an afternoon drink.

Where to Stay in Sanur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

When traveling to Sanur, you have an abundance of accommodation options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a guest house, Sanur has it all. Here are some of our top picks:

Prama Sanur Beach Bali Resort: Overlooking Sanur Beach and the Indian Ocean with 24-hour room service and a host of restaurants and bars
The Oasis Lagoon Sanur: Private pool villas with living rooms and dining areas, located just 300 meters from the main beach

What to Buy in Sanur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sanur may not be Bali’s shopping hub, but you can easily find souvenirs and local products here, such as:

Batik Textiles: Traditional textiles are common sightings during your trip here. You’ll find sarongs, shirts, and dresses of all types.
Woodcarvings: Choose from wooden statues, bowls, masks, and carved doors to bring home. Each piece carries intricate carvings that showcase the best of Balinese Craftsman.

Local Culture and Customs of Sanur

Sanur residents rely heavily on tourism, so visitors should respect their customs and culture. When visiting temples or religious sites, you’re required to wear long pants and proper tops. Balinese people celebrate numerous religious festivals throughout the year. Tourists are welcome to attend the ceremonies with prior approval from the local authorities. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Balinese culture, but remember to adhere to their customs and manners.

Best Time to Visit Sanur

The best time to visit Sanur is between April and September - the dry season. The weather during this time is the most pleasant in Bali, with low humidity and fewer chances of rain. December to March is the monsoon season, and this is also the peak tourist season in Bali.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sanur

Do:

Respect the locals and their customs and culture.
Carry cash, as some of the smaller shops and restaurants may not accept card payments.

Don’t:

Litter on the beach or streets.
Refuse to remove shoes when entering a temple or someone’s home. This is considered extremely disrespectful in Bali.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sanur

Sanur is a safe place to visit, but like anywhere, you should take precautions. Take care of your belongings, particularly in crowded places. Avoid drinking too much, particularly if you are in unfamiliar surroundings. Be careful when crossing the street- Bali traffic can be hectic.

Health in Sanur

Ensure to have travel insurance that covers medical treatment, in case of any accidents or illness. Drink plenty of water regularly, as Bali’s hot weather can quickly dehydrate you. Sanur is susceptible to mosquito-borne diseases, so carry insect repellent and be mindful of where and when you may need it.

Getting to Sanur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sanur

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the nearest airport to Sanur. It’s around 14 km from Sanur, and the journey may take around 30 minutes by car or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Sanur

If you’re coming from other cities in Bali, take a shuttle or taxi minibus from Ubung Bus Terminal in Denpasar or the ADO Bus Terminal in Ubud.

Other Options

You can rent a car or motorcycle to get around Bali, but keep in mind that driving in Bali can be a risky ordeal if you are not familiar with it. Alternatively, a hire car with a driver is also widely available.

How to Get Around in Sanur

Taxi

There are plenty of taxis available in Sanur, and prices are usually reasonable. You can hail one off the street or book one using Go-jek or Grab apps.

Motorbike

Renting a motorbike is affordable and popular in Bali. Keep in mind that Bali’s roads can be chaotic and busy, so be cautious while driving.

###Walking or Cycling

Sanur is a small town, and most of the attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. You can rent bicycles for a more peaceful and eco-friendly stroll, at the beach or town areas.

Where to Go Next from Sanur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bali offers many fascinating places to visit beyond Sanur:

Nusa Lembongan Island: An hour-long boat ride away from Sanur features beautiful beaches and coral reefs, perfect for an underwater adventure.
Ubud: The cultural capital of Bali offers picturesque rice fields, quaint cafes, art galleries, and museums.

Conclusion

Sanur is a perfect vacation destination for beach lovers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts. It’s a picturesque seaside town that offers everything from stunning landscapes and inspiring experiences to the beautiful Balinese traditional culture. Whether it’s a week-long vacation, solo trip, or family holiday, Sanur is bound to enthrall you with its beauty and charm.

Sanur Image Gallery

Map of Sanur

The annual kite festival at Padang Galak, Sanur

The paved beachfront path at the Sanur Hyatt, looking east

Typical Sanur cafe