Table of Contents
You’re planning a trip to Bali and wondering, is Sanur worth visiting? Well, if you’re after laid-back vibes, a gorgeous beachside setting, Bali’s traditional charm and good quality shopping, then absolutely!
Sanur is a fantastic spot to slow down and enjoy island life at your own pace. From the beaches to charming cafes, I’ll guide you through the best things to do in Sanur and why this area may be a better option for your next Bali holiday.
Why Is Sanur Worth Visiting
Sanur is a charming coastal town on the southeast side of Bali. It offers a refreshing escape from the tourist hotspots. With a relaxed atmosphere and (slightly) slower pace, Sanur is perfect for those looking to recharge without the chaos of a party scene. It appeals to families, couples, and anyone wanting a more peaceful Bali experience.
One of Sanur’s highlights is its stunning 5-kilometer beach boardwalk. It’s the ideal spot for a morning walk and coffee. You’ll enjoy ocean views and even a glimpse into local life, all while avoiding the crowds found in other parts of Bali.
Sanur is also a convenient base for exploring nearby destinations. It’s close to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, making day trips easily accessible. Plus, Sanur is only 14km from Bali’s international airport. Getting around Sanur is simple too—whether you’re walking, cycling, or using local transport (Bemo’s), I feel everything always feels accessible and stress-free in Sanur.
If you’re in the market for a new handbag, jewellery or home decor, you’ll love the mix of boutique shops and markets dotted around the area. And if like me relaxation is on your Bali agenda, Sanur is home to beautiful Spas, offering rejuvenating treatments at great prices.
For families and couples, Sanur’s calm waters, friendly atmosphere, and variety of good-quality restaurants make it an appealing place to stay. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a fun family adventure, Sanur has something for you. So, is Sanur worth visiting? It’s a big loud YES from me. I’m sure you’ll love the balance of tranquillity, convenience, and charm.
Quick Travel Resources;
Searching For The Best Flights
CLICK HERE TO GET THE BEST PRICE WITH SKYSCANNER
Booking Accommodation
CLICK HERE TO SAVE ON ACCOMMODATION, FROM HOSTELS TO LUXURY HOTELS
Travel Insurance
GET A QUOTE WITH COVER-MORE
Best Things to Do in Sanur
But in case you’re still wondering, is Sanur worth visiting? I’ve put together a list of things I recommend doing in Sanur. From relaxing days to unique adventures, here are the best things to do in Sanur:
Watch the Sunrise
Sanur is known for its breathtaking sunrises, and catching the first light of the day here is magical. The beaches in Sanur are east-facing so head to the beach early and watch as the sky transforms into shades of pink, orange, and gold. It’s the perfect way to start your day with a moment of peace before everyone else wakes.
Stroll the Beach Promenade
Sanur’s beach promenade stretches for several kilometres, and has stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere. Walk, cycle, or simply find a quiet spot to take a seat on one of the many benches and enjoy the scenery. You’ll also find plenty of beachside cafes and restaurants along the way.
Go Shopping in Sanur
A trip to Bali is never complete without a day of shopping. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, handmade jewellery, or stylish beachwear, I find Sanur’s shops and markets only have high-quality goods and are not always expensive. Jalan Danau Tamblingan is a great place to start, with a mix of boutique stores and artisan markets.
Also, I want to mention Arta Sedana, which is a large supermarket, that has everything you could need and several clothing stores. All the shops have set prices. If you do plan to shop at local markets and barter, looking at Arta Sedana beforehand is a good way to get an idea of how much things should cost!
Then out the front, there’s also a row of ATMs, from local and international banks. Plus, a money exchange between the ATM’s but I would not recommend going there. He did the old money trick and tried to significantly rip off my mum.
Treat Yourself At a Spa
One of the best things to do in Sanur is to indulge in a spa treatment. From traditional Balinese massages to incredible facials, the spas in Sanur offer affordable but also high-quality experiences that will leave you feeling your best.
The spa that has always been my favourite in Sanur is Koa. The service is beautiful and there’s also a great shop at the front of the spa. However, the only negative thing I will say about Koa is that recently I was there and booked a 1 hour facial. And, as I was leaving I noticed they cut my treatment by 15 minutes.
Take a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida
Sanur is the gateway to the Nusa Islands, the ferry terminal is only a short drive from the centre of town, so day trips are a must. Hop on one of the fast boats to explore the crystal-clear waters, stunning cliffs, and hidden beaches of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.
If visiting from May – October, this is the best time to snorkel with Manta Rays from Nusa Penida. Take advantage of this because swimming with these gentle giants is such a special experience.
If you’re finding this free guide helpful, please consider supporting my work!
Visit Sindhu Beach Market
This local market is a great spot for souvenirs, clothes, and trinkets. It’s also a fun way to experience the lively local culture and support the local community. The market is open 7 days from 9 am – 7 pm and some of the stalls at Sindhu Beach Market have set prices, which is great for those who don’t like bartering.
And, this is not to be mistaken with Sindhu Night Market. This market opens at 5 pm, is much smaller but has more local street food. (I found this market to be very underwhelming).
Explore Taman Festival Park
For something offbeat, check out the abandoned Taman Festival Park. This eerie but fascinating spot is overgrown and filled with graffiti, making it a haven for photographers and adventurers. This isn’t an official tourist attraction so there’s no entrance fee, but as you arrive you may be approached by a “security guard” who requests a donation for entry – 10,000 IDR is enough.
Do be careful if visiting Taman Festival Park, these structures are old and damaged, plus broken glass could be scattered around.
Enjoy Great Food and Coffee
Sanur has so many incredible cafes and restaurants, catering to all tastes. From beachfront dining to cozy coffee spots, there’s no shortage of places to relax and enjoy some really good food and drink.
My favourite spot for lunch in Sanur is BaliSabi, where you can craft your own Poke bowl. For dinner I love White Orchid, serving Asian cuisine and they usually have live music in the evenings. Then if you’re looking for somewhere super chilled, maybe stay for lunch and dinner (also perfect places if you’re working online) are Shotgun Social and Genius Cafe.
With its mix of relaxation, shopping, and adventure, it’s clear why so many people answer “yes” to the question, is Sanur worth visiting.
If you’re finding this free guide helpful, please consider supporting my work!
How To Make The Most Of Your Time in Sanur, Bali
To truly have the best trip to Sanur, Bali, it’s all about timing and planning. The best time to visit is during Bali’s dry season, from April to October, when the weather is sunny and ideal for outdoor activities. Although November and December are also amazing, it’s just very hot this time of year.
So you don’t over do it in the heat I recommend balancing your time between relaxation with exploration. Spend your mornings wondering the beach promenade, then cool off with a spa session or a lazy afternoon by the pool or at one of Sanur’s beaches. Then in the evening get your shopping done.
Getting around Sanur is a breeze, (for reference) the main street is called Jalan Danau Tamblingan. Sanur is compact and walkable – which I love, but renting a bicycle or motorbike can help you cover more ground. For families, hiring a driver for day trips can be both convenient and cost-effective.
How many days will you need in Sanur? At least 2 or 3 full days will allow you to soak up its laid-back atmosphere and experience some of the best things to do in Sanur. But I would recommend having at least 4 – 5 full days. This will give you more time to explore at an easy-going pace, try all the amazing cafes and restaurants and still have plenty of time to lay by the pool.
Sanur Accommodation
Villa Bella Sanur – 3 bedroom private villa, large pool and open plan living space. So well designed and comfortable!
Maya Sanur Resort & Spa – Stunning beachfront resort but with jungle vibes. Plus, an outdoor pool, four on-site restaurants and a yoga studio.
Andaz Bali, By Hyatt – Also beachfront, this beautiful resort features an outdoor swimming pool, kids playground, and highly rated buffet breakfast.
Who Will Enjoy Sanur Most?
I believe Sanur is a perfect destination for families, especially those with young children. The calm, shallow waters are safe for swimming, and many cafes have kid-friendly activities to keep little ones entertained.
Couples will love the peaceful ambience, romantic beachside dining, and relaxing spa options, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back getaway.
Solo travellers who prefer low-key vibes will appreciate Sanur’s relaxed atmosphere and quieter pace. It’s also great for remote workers, with plenty of cafes offering reliable Wi-Fi and an environment to stay productive.
Why Choose Sanur Over Other Bali Destinations?
Sanur strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and convenience. Unlike the bustling party hubs of Kuta or Seminyak, Sanur offers a calmer atmosphere without feeling too remote. Its proximity to the Nusa Islands makes it the perfect base for day trips, while everything in town—from beaches to cafes and markets—is easily accessible, whether you’re walking, cycling, or using local transport.
Plus, it’s not too far from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), making your arrival and departure out of Bali stress-free. For those seeking a laid-back yet well-connected destination, Sanur is honestly hard to beat.
Conclusion
So, is Sanur worth visiting you asked! I hope you now agree that it’s an easy YES. This charming coastal town offers the perfect blend of relaxation, convenience, and the authentic Balinese charm that we all love. You’ll love morning walks along the beach promenade, watching the sunrise with a coffee, or indulging in a spa day, there are countless ways to unwind and enjoy yourself. Plus, being so close to the Nusa Islands and the airport, it’ll make your trip hassle-free.
In this guide, I have included the best things to do in Sanur —like shopping, dining, and day trips and plenty of information on why Sanur is perfect for you.
Sanur has a calm and welcoming atmosphere and caters to families, couples, and solo travellers alike. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway that still keeps you connected to all the best of Bali, Sanur is the place to be.
Let me know what other Bali topics you would love to read about! I’m currently expanding my Indonesia/Bali catalogue.
Thanks for reading,
Happy Travels.
If you found this information helpful, please consider booking your trip via my affiliate links. This won’t be at any extra cost to you and will ensure I can continue to provide free content, thank you.
Planning a Trip? Travel Resources Below;
Searching For The Best Flights
Without a doubt the best site for comparing and booking flights is Skyscanner.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE BEST PRICE WITH SKYSCANNER
Booking Accommodation
CLICK HERE TO SAVE ON ACCOMMODATION, FROM HOSTELS TO LUXURY HOTELS
Get Cashback on Bookings
Before you book don’t forget to activate your Rakuten browser extension so you get cashback on your travel bookings.
Don’t know what Rakuten is? READ MY GUIDE HERE
Never Skip Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, everything doesn’t always go to plan but travel insurance will protect you when it comes to illness, injury, theft & cancellation.
Where to Next?
If you’re unsure of where to visit next, why not check out my Destination Page filled with exciting ideas from all over the world?
Like this Article?
Pin It!
If you liked this article, I would love for you to share it with your friends.
Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.
The authentic charm of Sanur makes this seem like an ideal Balinese destination.
Oh this is so helpful, thank you! My husband and I live in Lombok and we’re considering a “holiday” in Indonesia. We’ve both been to Bali many times, so we’re looking for somewhere new on the island. We’d heard good things about Sanur but your post really sums up everything well.
Oh that sounds amazing Tania, so glad you found this helpful
The food looks delicious, and the atmosphere looks peaceful. Great post! Thanks for sharing.
Bali is on my wish list and the laid back vibe here seems perfect for our family!