Why Sanur in Bali Whispers Tales of Sea Salt and Smiles
Sanur in Bali has long been one of our favorite coastal escapes, thanks to its tranquil lagoon waters, vibrant cultural scene, and warm village vibes.
It offers relaxing sunrise strolls along the famous beachfront walkway. It even boasts vibrant markets with mouthwatering local cuisine and cultural experiences that showcase Bali’s easy-going island life.
Plus, we love how it genuinely caters to everyone. Families find peaceful shores and kid-friendly amenities, couples enjoy romantic sunset dinners, and adventure seekers can dive right into paddleboarding or parasailing.
In this guide, we’re excited to share what makes Sanur such a standout destination. It covers everything from beaches and temples to delicious eats and places to stay.
Where is Sanur?
Sanur is located on the southeastern coast of Bali, within the Denpasar area, stretching about five kilometers along the Bali Sea. It’s bounded to the north by Karang Beach and to the east by the calm turquoise waters of the Bali Sea.
What is the main landmark in Sanur?
The main landmark in Sanur is Sanur Beach, a five-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Its tranquil shoreline is ideal for water sports and relaxation, as well as lively cafes and shops.
How to get to Sanur
By Taxi or Private Driver: The most hassle-free option is a metered taxi or pre-booked private car. The ride from Kuta takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
By Ride-Sharing (Grab/Gojek): Grab and Gojek operate across Bali, with rides from Denpasar or Kuta to Sanur typically costing around IDR 40,000 to IDR 70,000. But, they may not be allowed to pick up at Sanur Harbor.
By Shuttle and Charter Transfers: Book a shared shuttle or dedicated airport transfer via Klook or your hotel. Shared shuttles usually cost around IDR 100,000-150,000, while private charters range from IDR 300,000 to 600,000 for door-to-door service.
What to Do and See in Sanur
Pedal around the promenade with Sanur Cycle Tours
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Website: https://sanurcycletours.com/
Address: Jalan Tirta Nadi 1 No 35, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, 80228
Contact: +62 811 397 4445
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Pricing: $
100% Balinese-run since 2012, every guide at Sanur Cycle Tours shares authentic village stories. You’re outfitted with sturdy Polygon bikes and colorful Toska jerseys embroidered with Frangipani motifs.
You can choose either a 3–4 hour “Local Sanur Village” loop that glides through rice fields, temples, and beachfront murals. Plus, we love the scenic Sanur Promenade—an Insta-worthy spot that locals and travelers alike recognize.
You may even opt for a multi-day adventure in Kintamani, Ubud, and nearby waterfalls in Bali. It’s a perfect experience for immersing yourself in Bali’s diverse landscapes and culture.
This is an all-inclusive support package that covers transportation, helmets, bottled water, and light bites to make your trip worry-free.
| Pro Tip:Don’t skip the family-run warungs along the route. These hidden gems serve authentic Balinese dishes, such as spicy ayam betutu and fresh sambal. |
Find your zen at Puri Santrian Spa & Yoga
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Website: https://santrian.com/puri-santrian/
Address: Jl. Cemara No.35, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228
Contact: +62 361 288 009
Hours: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Pricing: $
Puri Santrian is a beach resort that also offers spas and yoga. They welcome you to start each day with complimentary beachfront morning yoga led by an experienced instructor—whether you’re a beginner or seasoned yogi.
Inside the lush spa garden, the spa offers holistic treatments rooted in Balinese healing. Make sure to either opt for a single massage or craft a “Spa Journey” that pairs natural-oil therapies with a private cooking class or romantic dinner.
If you are looking for a more luxurious retreat experience, consider their “Harmonious Indulgence” package. This 3-night, 4-day experience is only priced at IDR 9,900,000, with accommodation, dining, and wellness amenities.
| Pro Tip:Book the beachfront morning yoga clearly to secure a front-row spot and start your day immersed in sea breezes. Make sure to arrive 10 minutes before sunrise to settle in and experience the most serene views. |
Rejuvenate at Maya Sanur Resort & Spa’s wellness studio
Media credit: mayasanur
Website: https://mayaresorts.com/sanur
Address: Jl. Danau Tamblingan No. 89M, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228
Contact: +62 361 849 7800
Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Pricing: $$$
Maya Sanur Resort & Spa’s Wellness Studio is set within a lush garden that feels like a peaceful sanctuary before your session even begins.
We were so impressed by how every detail, from expert techniques to tranquil surroundings, works to renew your body and spirit. It left us completely refreshed and grounded.
Even more, you can also keep your energy flowing in the air-conditioned Fitness Centre, packed with modern cardio and strength machines for a vacation-friendly workout.
Then, head over to the dual-style Yoga Studio for indoor classes or even move outdoors to the Ceremonial Plaza to stretch under Bali’s soft dawn light.
| Pro Tip:Book your favorite spa treatment in advance to lock in your ideal time. Plus, arrive early to enjoy the garden’s calm ambiance and maximize your relaxation. |
Dine by the Sea at Massimo Sanur
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Website: https://www.massimobali.com/
Address: Jl. Danau Tamblingan No. 228, Sanur, Bali 80237
Contact: +62 811 399 9727
Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM (Breakfast & Gelato) | 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Lunch/Dinner) | 10:30 PM Last Order
Pricing: $$
For over 20 years, Massimo has perfected hearty pastas, risottos, and wood-fired pizzas made from premium ingredients. Each dish pairs genuine Italian recipes with a refreshing sea breeze at Dine by the Sea, located in Massimo Sanur.
Additionally, you can either start or end your meal at the gelato showcase. Daily-churned flavors like pistachio and mango will tempt your sweet tooth. It’s the perfect finale to your Italian feast, whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring it solo.
Then, choose freely from the leafy Garden Terrace, the convivial Indoor Hall, or the cozy Air-Conditioned Lounge—whichever vibe you want. Each setting truly welcomes families, couples, or solo diners alike.
| Pro Tip:Book the Garden Terrace at sunset via WhatsApp—seats fill up quickly. You need to secure a waterside table to fully enjoy and savor your meal against Sanur’s golden evening sky. |
Where to Find Water-Based Fun in Sanur
Bali Amarta Watersports Sanur
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Website: https://baliamarta.com/jetski/
Address: Beach, Mertasari Harbour, Sanur, Jl. Mertasari, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80227
Contact: +62 812 3829 5758
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Bali Amarta Watersports brings the thrill of jet skiing to Sanur’s Mertasari Beach, offering solo rides guided by an experienced crew in a private location. They prioritize your safety with life vests, goggles, and water shoes before you hit the waves.
Beyond jet skis, adrenaline junkies can also power across the sea on JETSURF motorized surfboards for a high-speed rush. For an even bigger thrill, flyboards launch you dozens of feet above the water’s surface.
Families can also enjoy thrilling rides on banana boats, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards, all of which are suitable for children. For instance, a 15-minute banana boat ride costs IDR 250,000 per person, while a one-hour kayak rental costs IDR 60,000.
| Pro Tip:Book your jet ski tour at sunrise for calmer waters and cooler temperatures. However, please arrive 30 minutes early, as Bali Amarta Watersports ensures the proper fitting of safety gear and conducts a brief orientation. |
The Heaven’s Corner
Media credit: mochan_surf_bali15
Website: https://sanurwateractivities.com/
Address: Jalan Kesumasari 3A, Jl. Setapak No. Br, Semawang, Sanur, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228
Contact: +62 877 7672 9452
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pricing: $
Bali Amarta’s sister brand, The Heaven’s Corner, turns Sanur’s calm waters into your playground. Their premium stand-up paddleboarding rentals are suitable for all ages.
Once you’ve got the hang of the paddle, you can switch things up with soft-top surf lessons. Whether you join in a small group or opt for a private session, certified instructors and top-notch safety gear make catching your first waves a confident thrill.
If you’re craving even more adventure, you can book a private Nusa Penida or Lembongan charter. It’s complete with door-to-door pickup, snorkeling stops with manta-ray encounters, and even optional GoPro footage.
| Pro Tip:Don’t forget to mention your GoPro documentation when booking. It’s included in the snorkeling package, which costs around IDR 300,000 per person. |
Zero Gravity Diving
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Website: https://zerogravitydivingbali.com/
Address: Jl. Sekuta No.40, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228
Contact: +62 821 4650 4530
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Zero Gravity Diving Bali offers daily scuba trips to top reef sites with professional PADI guides, full equipment, and thorough dive briefings.
Beginners can also try “Discover Scuba” sessions or sign up for full PADI certification courses, while experienced divers appreciate customized dive planning. Each course has classroom theory with hands-on pool practice before open-water dives.
To fully immerse yourself in Bali’s underwater wonders, opt for a multi-day package (3 days/7 dives) that takes you to the island’s best dive sites. It covers transfers, park fees, and discounted rates at iconic spots, such as Nusa Penida’s Manta Point.
| Pro Tip:Take advantage of their small group dives, with a maximum of six divers per guide. You can enjoy personalized attention, safer conditions, and better opportunities to spot rare marine life without the crowds. |
Where to Stay in Sanur
Blind Dog Inn – Surf Camp
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Website: https://blinddoginn.com/
Address: Gang Wana Sari 18 c, Sanur Kauh, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Bali 80228
Contact: +62 812 3612 9148
Hours: Always Open
Pricing: $
Blind Dog Inn brings true surf-camp vibes to Sanur, with “Fun in the Sun” lessons for beginners and advanced surfers alike.
Located in a lush tropical garden just a ten-minute walk from the beach and town center, it offers 4- and 8-bed dorms, as well as private rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
Adventure doesn’t stop there—camp participants also enjoy complimentary bicycle and kayak use to explore the shoreline. They even get access to partnered surf and kitesurf courses with Rip Curl School of Surf—a top-rated surf academy since 1998.
| Pro Tip:When you stay at Blind Dog Inn, don’t forget to use your 15% discount on all water sports at Rip Curl School of Surf nearby. |
Sanur Guest House
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Website: https://www.sanurguesthouse.com/
Address: Jl. Danau Poso No. 53 A, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80227
Contact: +62 853 3853 3329
Hours: Monday-Sunday: Always Open
Pricing: $
Just a ten-minute walk from Sanur Beach, you’ll find a boutique stay—Sanur Guest House. Each room boasts king-size bedding, ensuite bathrooms with hot showers and bidets, and individually controlled air conditioning for personalized comfort.
Guests even have the freedom to choose rooms with private balconies overlooking either the water or the lush garden. Then start each morning right in the dedicated breakfast area.
Beyond the rooms, it is also surrounded by major attractions like Massimo Restaurant and popular dive centers. Bonus is that the inn is also just ten minutes from Sanur Harbor, where complimentary ferry shuttles pick you up and drop you off for excursions.
| Pro Tip:Take advantage of the complimentary ferry shuttle to plan a perfect day trip to Nusa Penida. You’ll definitely save on transport and maximize your island time. |
Sanur Lodge Bali
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Website: https://www.sanurlodge.com/
Address: Jl. Pengembak No.1, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80227
Contact: +62 361 286 135
Hours: Monday to Sunday: Always Open
Pricing: $$
With its ‘80s Balinese charm, Sanur Lodge welcomes you in a family-run setting surrounded by tropical gardens. Its retro-styled architecture brings modern comforts, making every corner feel like home. Plus, their shaded pool sits at the heart of the lodge.
Choose between their Standard and Superior rooms, each equipped with air conditioning, hot water showers, and private terraces or balconies. Also, their Superior rooms include a handy pantry for light snacks or coffee breaks.
Moreover, digital nomads and long-stay guests can enjoy special monthly rates, biweekly cleaning, and blazing fiber-optic internet up to 150 Mbps.
Lastly, they also provide discounted B211 visa assistance, helping you extend your stay with a popular 60-day visit visa. Plus, their team can even arrange bike rentals, airport pickups, and ferry shuttles to nearby islands for your perfect travel.
| Pro Tip:If you’re a traveler seeking a longer-term retreat in Bali, you may consider opting for their monthly accommodation packages. They even offer assistance for obtaining a B211 Visa, which allows for extended stays in Indonesia. |