Sanur, Bali, is a charming coastal town located on the southeastern coast of Bali, Indonesia. It’s known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and traditional Balinese vibes.
Unlike some other areas in Bali, Sanur has managed to maintain its authentic character while still offering modern amenities to tourists. Discover budget-friendly Sanur hotels and chic resorts for a memorable stay.
You will find Sanur located approximately a 30-minute drive from Bali’s international airport, making it easily accessible for travellers. Rest assured, Sanur, Bali, is a safe and welcoming destination and a great base from which to explore Bali.
Let’s find your perfect spot to stay in Sanur and enjoy this charming coastal town! Happy travels!
Where to stay in Sanur – Beachfront Accommodation
Staying in a luxury resort, beachfront hotel, villa, or homestay offers several advantages. First and foremost, you’ll have direct access to the beautiful Sanur Beach, where you can enjoy the soft sand, calm waters, and breathtaking sunrise views.
This type of Sanur accommodation often features large swimming pools, extensive wellness facilities, and private balconies and is within walking distance of the main street.
Additionally, luxury resorts or beachfront accommodations often provide spacious rooms, excellent sea views, and the soothing sound of ocean waves. However, one potential drawback is that these luxury accommodation properties, such as Maya Sanur Resort, Hyatt Regency Bali, or Mercure Resort Sanur, tend to be more expensive than those located further inland.
You might consider some specific beachfront areas in Sanur, Bali Sindhu Beach, Mertasari Beach, and Segara Ayu Beach. These areas are known for their stunning shorelines and various beachfront accommodations.
Wake up to the calming sound of waves: The best beachfront hotels in Sanur
Central Sanur – The best area to stay in Sanur Bali
Central Sanur is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the golden sand, calm sea, and relaxing atmosphere of Sanur.
The area of Central Sanur is not clearly defined. Still, generally, it refers to the Sanur section between Jalan Danau Tamblingan and the beach and between Jalan Hang Tuah and Jalan Mertasari. This is where most coffee shops, hotels, restaurants, shops, and other attractions are concentrated.
Central Sanur is known for its long stretch of golden sand that faces the calm and clear waters of the Indian Ocean. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, and other water activities.
One of the highlights of Central Sanur is the 5 km-long Sanur Beach Promenade and the shopping opportunities. On the east coast of Bali, you can easily find a luxury hotel.
Visit the Sindhu Market for fresh produce and local crafts, while the Blanjong Temple houses the Blanjong Pillar, which has an inscription dating back to 914 AD. It is the oldest historical artefact in Bali.
It is a place where you can relax on Sanur Beach and have fun, as well as learn and discover new things.
North Sanur – the best area to stay in Sanur
Northern Sanur is a beautiful and peaceful place in Bali, where you can enjoy the natural scenery, the cultural heritage, and the friendly people. North Sanur roughly incorporates the area from Sindhu Beach to the Port of Sanur.
The area is about 5.1 km (3.2 mi) long and has a variety of hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions. Some of the popular places to visit in northern Sanur are the Le Mayeur Museum, the Blanjong Temple, the Sindhu Market, and the Bali Orchid Garden.
You can also enjoy various water sports, such as surfing, snorkelling, diving, and kite surfing, or just relax on the white sandy beach. Northern Sanur is a great destination for travellers who are looking for a quiet and serene getaway away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It is also a perfect place for families, couples, and solo travellers who want to experience the authentic Balinese culture and lifestyle.
Southern Sanur is the best area to stay in Sanur
The southern end of Sanur is also not a clearly defined area, but it usually refers to the section of Sanur that is south of Jalan Mertasari and east of Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai.
South Sanur is a good choice for tourists who want to enjoy a more peaceful and relaxing stay in Sanur, Bali, away from the crowds and traffic of the central area. The beach here is also cleaner and less crowded, and it offers a nice view of the islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.
Southern Sanur is also home to some attractions that showcase the environmental and historical aspects of Bali. You can visit the Mangrove Information Centre and see Serangan Island, where you can support the turtle conservation centre and see the endangered sea turtles that are rescued and rehabilitated here.
Southern Sanur is a peaceful and relaxing area that offers something for everyone. You can stay at a luxurious resort, enjoy pristine beaches, watch stunning sunrises, and visit nearby temples like Pura Dalem Segara.
The best quiet and relaxing areas to stay in Sanur:
If you seek a more serene and peaceful environment away from busy city life, consider staying in areas like Sindhu or Batu Jimbar. In these locations, you can find boutique hotels or private villas that offer a laid-back atmosphere with a mix of local charm and natural beauty.
Accommodations in these areas often provide spacious rooms in tranquil settings with lush tropical gardens, perfect for relaxation, unwinding, or a romantic getaway.
Seeking a more quiet and comfortable stay? The best villa hotels in Sanur for a perfect stay
Family-Friendly Areas to Stay in Sanur
For families with children, the Sindhu area is often considered the most family-friendly part of Sanur, Bali. It boasts a calmer beach suitable for kids to play safely.
Several family-oriented resorts and accommodations with child-friendly amenities such as a free shuttle service, a kids pool, kids clubs, and play areas are available.
The best hotels in Sanur for families ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for the whole family.
Nightlife and entertainment in Sanur
While Sanur is generally more laid-back than other areas in Bali, it does offer some nightlife and entertainment options.
The Danau Tamblingan area is where you’ll find some lively bars, beach clubs, and restaurants that provide live music and a pleasant atmosphere in the evenings.
Want to have a relaxing adventure while hiring a scooter in Sanur? We have a guide full of information
Budget-friendly areas in Sanur to stay
For budget-conscious travellers, the northern part of Sanur, near Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, tends to have more affordable budget accommodation options.
Here, you’ll find guesthouses, homestays, and budget hotels in Sanur that provide a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. If you are looking to save money on meals, look for local Warungs where you see locals eating, the food will be cheap but good.
While it may not be as close to the beach, you can still access Sanur’s attractions with a short drive or walk. Most hotels in Sanur will have an outdoor swimming pool if you’re not close to Sanur Beach Bali.
Safety and security in Sanur:
Sanur is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s always essential to take standard precautions. Keep your valuables secured, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night.
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As in any travel destination, it’s best to stay cautious and follow local guidelines and recommendations during your stay in Sanur, Bali.
Is Sanur worth visiting?
The Sanur Beach area can be likened to a concealed jewel within Bali awaiting discovery. It is a great option for exploring Bali with a day trip to Waterbom, Bali Zoo, the Nusa Islands, and more.
Interestingly, after a short walk, you will notice there is far less traffic congestion in Sanur, Bali. This makes a stay in Sanur less stressful and more peaceful compared to the bustling areas of Seminyak, Canggu, or Kuta.
Locals frequently affectionately refer to it as sleepy Sanur, and for valid reasons. For this reason, Sanur Beach draws more families and older travellers.
Those who are looking for a more laid-back and peaceful experience at luxury hotels or a boutique resort in a central location. An outdoor swimming pool or Sanur Beach is just a few steps away.
However, don’t be fooled. In Sanur you will find exceptional places to eat and live musical performances at bars, restaurants, and luxury resorts. Sanur is well worth visiting, with everything just a short walk away.
Hungry and looking for the best restaurants in Sanur? All you need to know about Sanur food and drink
For more accommodation options in Sanur Bali, click through to our places to stay page or search Booking.com Agoda or Luxury Escapes.
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog post about Sanur, Bali! We hope you found it 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. For additional resources, tips, and updates, visit our Facebook Group and our TikTok account.
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Things to do in Sanur
Things to do in Sanur and its content is created by two Australians Mark & Bec 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.