Bali is a destination that is on everyone’s bucket list. The island is known for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. While most travellers flock to popular destinations like Seminyak, Kuta, and Ubud, Sanur on the southeast coast of Bali is a hidden gem that offers a more laid-back and authentic Balinese experience.
In the past, Sanur (pronounced sah-noor) has been branded Snore by many but is eagerly immerging from that era and comfortably entering the sleepy, laid back, relaxing vibe that so many visitors need on a holiday to Bali.
Why not treat yourself to accommodation on the white sand beach in Sanur, Indonesia? Many tourists often search online for information on what to do in Sanur before visiting the popular coastal town in Bali.
The perfect Sanur itinerary
We hope this Sanur itinerary Bali travel guide will help you explore Sanur, one of the best areas around Bali.
There are many things to do in Sanur, from exploring the local markets to enjoying water sports on the beach. With this five-day itinerary for Sanur, you can discover the best this quaint coastal town offers.
Day 1 Sanur itinerary: Arrival and Beach Day
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the day relaxing on Sanur Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
Take a dip in the crystal clear waters, visit the turtle conservation and education centre near Sindhu Beach, lounge under the shade of a palm tree, and enjoy a refreshing drink from beachside cafés and restaurants.
Arena Seaside Santrian offers good-priced cocktails and snack food on the Sanur boardwalk. For a meal, head to La Playa Cafe, which serves cold drinks and a wide selection of Western and Indonesian meals. When you stay in Sanur, remember to try Bali’s famous Luwak coffee. That’s your first day there.
Get ready to explore more: Best things to do at Sanur Beach
Day 2 Sanur guide itinerary: Sunrise at Sanur Beach and Tegenungan Waterfall
Wake up early and head to Sanur Beach to witness the breathtaking sunrise. Head to Jalan Danau Tamblingan and find breakfast at unique venues, such as Cafe Batujimbar or the Daily Baguette.
Afterwards, go to Tegenungan Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder. It is a short drive to get to this waterfall near Sanur.
You can book a car for the day with a driver who will take you to the waterfall and many more beautiful places in Bali. A day trip from Sanur is one of the best things to add to your Sanur itinerary. Once at the waterfall, take a refreshing dip in the waterfall’s pool and capture some memorable photos.
After you dry off, head to the Omma Day Club, which overlooks the river and waterfall, for a light meal or refreshing drink. With its stunning, cascading water, Tegenungan should be a part of any Bali itinerary.
After returning to your Sanur accommodation, you should try local craft beer at the Sanur Beer Garden on Jalan Danau Poso. You can also opt for dinner here. If not, there are plenty of options around it, with some bars or warungs if you’d like to grab a local style meal, socialise a bit more or watch a game.
After that, stop at Massimo’s for some of the best gelato in Sanur. Massimo’s is among the best places to get ice cream and coffee on your Bali trip. Watch the line…it can get long!
*Top Tip: You pay for the ice cream at the till and then wait until your name is called. There is usually enough time while you wait to pick the ice cream flavours you would like. Always get two scoops minimum!
Bali Checklist
- Have you searched and booked flights to Bali yet?
- Do you have your travel insurance? Cover-More is an excellent option.
- Have you booked accommodation with Agoda or Luxury Escapes?
- Have you booked an airport transfer to your accommodation?
- Have you booked day tours through Klook?
- Have you got your Visa on Arrival? Book through the official website here.
- Make sure you pay your tourist Tax? You can pay for it here.
- Have you downloaded your customs declaration app?
Day 3 Sanur travel guide itinerary: Temple Tour and beach time
Sanur is home to several temples that glimpse Bali’s rich cultural heritage. Start your temple tour by visiting Pura Blanjong, a 10th-century temple known for its inscriptions on a stone pillar. Next, head to Pura Dalem Pengembak, a temple dedicated to the goddess of death.
End your temple tour with a visit to Pura Segara, a small Hindu temple on the beach. Enjoy the Balinese architecture and wood carvings while exploring the temples of Sanur.
In the afternoon, take a walk along the beach path, which runs for around 6 kilometres. Maybe relax on the beach with bean bags at a beach club or try water sports such as jet skiing or paddle boards. For dinner, try one of the warungs or restaurants known for vegetarian food or seafood in Sanur.
Thinking of hiring a scooter? We have a guide on renting a scooter in Sanur
Day 4 Sanur itinerary: Day trip to Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is a small island off Bali’s coast known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Take a day trip on a boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida and explore attractions like Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong.
You can also do snorkelling with manta rays or explore the island’s hidden caves. Trips to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan help you escape the hustle and bustle of Bali island.
Day 5 Sanur itinerary: Cooking class and spa day
End your Sanur trip with a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Balinese dishes like Nasi Goreng and Sate Lilit. Afterwards, pamper yourself with a spa day at one of Sanur’s luxurious spas. Indulge in a Balinese massage, a body scrub, or a flower bath to rejuvenate your mind and body.
On your last night, head to Sindhu night market and grab some local food and fresh fruit. Bali’s warm climate means you can easily walk around and explore even after dark.
Looking for the best restaurants in Sanur: 9 best restaurants in Sanur
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FAQs about Sanur:
Q. What is the best time to visit Sanur Bali?
A. The best time to visit Sanur is between May and September when the weather is dry and sunny. Sanur offers one of the best beaches in Bali
Q. Is Sanur Bali a good place for families?
A. There are plenty of things to do in Sanur when you visit. It is a family-friendly destination that offers activities for kids of all ages.
Q. Can I rent a bike in Sanur, Indonesia?
A. You can rent a bike in Sanur to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace. You can even rent a scooter to get more experience in Sanur.
Sanur is a hidden gem worth exploring when planning a trip to Bali. This Sanur Bali 5 day itinerary for Sanur covers everything from beaches to temples and will help you make the most of your time in this charming coastal town.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Sanur on the east coast of Bali has something to offer for everyone.
Read more: Is Sanur better than Seminyak?
The best time to visit Sanur Bali
The best time to visit Sanur and other spots in Bali, Indonesia, is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather in Bali is generally sunny with low humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as walking, swimming, snorkelling, and reading a book while lying by the pool.
April and October shoulder seasons can also be good times to visit Sanur, as the weather in Sanur is still pleasant but with fewer crowds. Pack your suitcase and book your flights for one of the best periods to visit attractions such as Bali Zoo, Waterbom and the Monkey Forest.
However, if you don’t mind the occasional rain shower, visiting Sanur during the wet season from October to March can also have advantages. The lush greenery and cooler temperatures can be refreshing, but ensure you have a waterproof bag and umbrella for your outings in case of a downpour.
It’s worth noting that Sanur in Bali is a popular tourist destination, and the peak season for tourism is from June to August. Planning your visit outside these months is best if you prefer to avoid crowds and higher prices.
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog post about Sanur Bali! We hope you found this Sanur travel blog informative and helpful when planning your trip to this beautiful region.
If you’re looking for more information about things to do in Sanur, recommendations for places to eat, or where to go from Sanur, be sure to check out our website.
Our team is dedicated to providing you with the most up-to-date and accurate information to make your holiday planning, from choosing hotels on and off the beach to scooter rental, as smooth as possible.
Once again, thank you for reading, and we hope our articles continue to be a valuable resource for your travel plans.
For more accommodation options in Sanur Bali, click through to our places to stay page or search Booking.com Agoda or Luxury Escapes.
Things to do in Sanur
Things to do in Sanur and its content is created by two Australians who have been to Sanur many times. We have enjoyed food and drink on the beach, we have sipped coffee on Jalan Danau Tamblingan. We have stayed in homestays and hotels in Sanur and made day trips to see the best of Bali. Not only that, but we aim to keep the information fresh by continuing to visit Sanur and getting first-hand information off our Balinese friends.