Welcome to my home - Sanur. I’m sharing the best places to stay, where to eat, and what to do in Bali’s family-friendly beach town.
Having called Sanur my home for almost two decades, there’s no question that this is my favourite area in Bali. I won’t lie that over the years, this east coast neighbourhood has changed quite a bit! While there are many Sanur classics which have stood the test of time, there’s a growing number of new kids on the block, ranging from restaurants and cafes, to hangout spots like ICON Mall, beachfront hotels and the sleek Sanur Harbour (AKA your gateway to Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida).
But one thing’s for sure: Sanur still retains its slower pace of life, family-friendly vibes, and a good mix of locals, expats and visitors, of all ages. To welcome you to my neighbourhood, I’m sharing my all-time favourites: where to stay, eat and what to do – from a local living in Sanur!
Why trust this guide
I moved to Sanur in 2006, so I know this neighbourhood like the back of my hand. This guide includes everything I would personally recommend to my family and friends: where to stay based on location and value-for-money, where I currently love to eat, and what to do if you’re staying in Sanur whether you’re travelling solo, with your partner, and/or the whole family in tow.
Sanur at a glance
You can generally divide Sanur into two halves: the east side of Jalan By Pass (this is the main road you would drive on coming from the airport), and the west. The east is where tourists love to stay, as it’s the beach side of the neighbourhood. This means that you’ll be within walking distance to the shores, and most of the top restaurants, boutiques and souvenir shops in Sanur.
Meanwhile, the west side of Sanur is mostly occupied by local and expat residents living in Bali for a longer period of time. You’ll find prices for accommodation and food more affordable in this area.
Additionally, there’s a few supermarkets (the most well-stocked are Grand Lucky, Pande Putri, Arta Sedana and Pepito), as well as two large hospitals: Bali Mandara Regional General Hospital, and the recently opened Bali International Hospital.
One-day Sanur itinerary
- Sunrise stroll along Sanur Beach between 5am to 6am.
- Stop by a Sanur cafe for coffee and breakfast. Most cafes open between 7am to 8am.
- Mid-morning ‘til lunchtime: go shopping or book a pottery class.
- Brunch between 12pm to 1pm at a laid-back restaurant.
- Afternoon spa or water sports.
- Dinner with live music, or at Sindhu Night Market.
- After-dinner dancing at Casablanca.
Still looking for more Sanur recommendations? Check out my other top picks below:
- The Best Hotels In Sanur
- Sanur’s Dreamy Holiday Villas
- Where To Eat In Sanur Right Now
- Top Spas In Sanur For All Budgets
Where To Stay: My Top Hotels In Sanur
1. Hyatt Regency Bali
One of the first luxury stays in Bali, Hyatt Regency Bali has long occupied the nine-hectare land at the heart of this east coastal neighbourhood. It’s complete with three swimming pools (the beachfront one is my all-time favourite), the luxury Shakha Spa and fitness centre, the beachfront Italian restaurant Pizzaria, and the Indonesian-inspired Omang Omang restaurant.
This breezy and beautiful Sanur hotel is designed with a modern Balinese aesthetics in mind. So you’ll find wooden structures, stone carvings and rattan furniture all around. As for the spacious rooms and suites? Expect sweeping views of the lush gardens and the ocean that sparks at sunrise.
Best for: World-class luxury stay at Sanur’s beachfront.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 3,259,800
Where: Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 89, Sanur
2. Andaz Bali
What makes Andaz Bali a standout is, not only is it the first Andaz resort in Asia, it also resembles a Balinese village. Whenever I swing by here, the Koi pond at the entrance makes me feel Zen instantly. Then the lobby is a feast for my eye, with intricate wooden carvings in every corner. Step further in and you’ll find the heart of this beachfront resort: The Village Square. This grassy courtyard is surrounded by Andaz’s multiple restaurants and social hubs.
And for when you want to hide away? The lush landscapes, ancient trees and lagoon pools are fringed by tropical foliage – I’m talking “Tarzan & Jane” kind of jungle! They form a number of secluded areas that provide a quiet sanctuary for a temporary escape from city-living…
Best for: Family vacation in a “Balinese village” with five-starred service and amenities.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 4,885,500
Where: Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 89A, Sanur
3. Maya Sanur Resort & Spa
Maya Sanur Resort & Spa is another Sanur gem with direct beach access at the back and Sanur’s best restaurants just footsteps out front. It’s also home to an award-winning spa, a beachfront infinity pool, plus three restaurants and a bar with a view of Sanur’s popular beachwalk. There are rooms and suites to choose from, some with direct lagoon pool access. But if you can, nab a private suite with a pool so you can have your very own floating breakfast!
Best for: Travellers looking for a modern stay where everything is within walking distance.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 6,118,470
Where: Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 89M, Sanur
4. Artotel Sanur
One for the artistic souls, ARTOTEL Sanur is one of those hotels you wouldn’t believe it’s good based on how budget-friendly it is. That is, until you’ve actually stayed there. In fact, by the end of my stay here, I didn’t want to leave. It directly impresses with its architecture that’s inspired by Sanur’s annual kite festival, and artwork from some of Bali’s best emerging artists.
I stayed here for two nights, and my Studio 20 room was cosy and super cool! Think a statement mural on the wall, a plush bed, modern designs and essential amenities. I had breakfast at its Indonesian restaurant Lidah Lokal, but I think the jewel of the crown is its rooftop space. There’s a bar, a spa, and a swimming pool which glows at sunset.
Best for: Artsy solo travellers and couples.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 2,300,000
Where: Jl Kusuma Sari No. 1, Sanur
5. InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort
Those who’ve lived in Sanur for a while know this spot’s many names in its past-life. But InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort is one that sticks. This resort is tucked away from the main Sanur strip, offering modern-living in the midst of lush tropical gardens.
Each stylish suite comes with high-end facilities (hello digitally-controlled lights and curtains!), while the luxe villas feature their own private pools. But what I like the most is the selection of Indonesian breakfast at the newly revamped restaurant Layang-Layang. You’ll want to head to the beachside restaurant Pier Eight too, to catch Sanur’s sunset ambiance and top it off with a signature cocktail or two…
Best for: Beachfront resort stay that’s hidden in a small lane.
Price per night: Starting from IDR 3,817,560
Where: Jl Kusuma Sari No. 8, Sanur
Book InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort
Where To Eat: My Top Cafes & Restaurants In Sanur
1. Genius Café
For the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly café in Sanur, Genius Cafe truly lives up to its name. It’s been the residents’ go-to for health-conscious eats with toes in the sand, beneath boho-chic macrame umbrellas. From vibrant smoothie bowls to smashed avocado toast and hearty pumpkin soup, every dish is made with fresh, wholesome ingredients – with plenty of gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free, and nut-free options.
You’ll want to stay back for live bands in the evenings, as you and your crew swap and share my top pick, the vegan nachos topped with a vibrant guacamole. Dining with kids? The dedicated kids’ menu ensures the little ones eat just as well.
Best for: Beachfront all-day dining that caters to all kinds of dietary restrictions and preferences.
Must-try dishes: Genius Acai Bowl, Organic Scrambled Eggs, Vegan Nachos.
Where: Mertasari Beach, Sanur
Opening hours: Daily, 7am – 10pm
2. Sala Bistro
A Sanur favourite since 2017, Sala Bistro is a must-visit restaurant on Sanur’s buzzing eat street. The top floor in this two-storey building is a cosy hideaway from the crowds, complete with comfy sofas, wooden furnishings, and a sunny balcony. I’ve grazed through the breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, which were all packed with health-conscious international dishes, crafted from the freshest local ingredients.
I had the Egg Dip for breakfast, which was a unique take on the classic “egg and soldiers”. It’s served in a little glass jar, with truffle potato puree at the bottom, gooey sous vide egg on top and a toasted sourdough to mop up all the goodness. I paired it up with a jamu-style Golden Turmeric juice and a Seniman coffee brew. You’ll want to come back for the aglio e’ olio pasta, and the crispy-skin barramundi for dinner, too.
Best for: Coffee and Aussie-style healthy brunch.
Must-try dishes: Egg Dip, Hash Benedict, Protein Bowl.
Where: Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 180, Sanur
Opening hours: Daily, 7.30am – 10pm
3. Shotgun Social
The cool brother to Soul on the Beach and Soul in a Bowl (both are located in Sanur too!), Shotgun Social is my favourite of the Soul Fam! Perhaps, it’s because this breezy brewhouse and beer garden pours a stellar lineup of 16 craft beers on tap. Or maybe it’s the iconic domed interior with a large garden area, a playground and a treehouse out back where kids and pets are welcome. I come here for their big burgers and even bigger NYC-style pizzas. FYI – they also have a Doggy Food Menu for your furry friends!
Best for: Night-outs with friends and family in a beer garden setting.
Must-try dishes: Ol’Margi Pizza, Peri Peri Burger.
Where: Jl Pantai Sindhu No. 11, Sanur
Opening hours: Daily, 9am – 11pm
4. Oliver’s Place
What began as a seafood shack in the heart of Berawa has transformed into Oliver’s Place, a cosy restaurant in Sanur. It’s a neighbourhood space serving Western and Indonesian flavours with the freshest ingredients. You can’t go wrong with any of the classic dishes, but you’ll want to get a taste of Oliver’s signatures. I love that they keep things simple, to focus on making every bite perfect.
Best for: Casual lunch for families, and romantic dinner for couples.
Must-try dishes: Salmon Avocado Bowl, Striploin Black Pepper, Sate Tuna.
Where: Jl Bumi Ayu No. 4, Sanur
Opening hours: Daily, 7.30am – 10pm
5. Sindhu Night Market
A trip to Sanur really isn’t complete without grabbing dinner at Sindhu Night Market. It’s a proper street food market – think food carts, smokey grills, long communal tables, all set outdoors in an empty lot that comes to life after sunset. This is the one-stop-destination if you’re looking to eat local Balinese and Indonesian food in Sanur. It’s also home to the best sate ayam I’ve tasted in the neighbourhood, and the legendary martabak man – cameras at the ready, as the man behind the food cart fold and fry it to order, right in front of you!
Best for: Local street food with affordable prices.
Must-try dishes: Sate Ayam, Martabak.
Where: Jl Pungutan No. 2, Sanur
Opening hours: Daily, from 5pm. Note that some carts or the whole market might close on public holidays and religious ceremonies.
Find Sindhu Night Market on Google Maps
My Favourite Things To Do In Sanur
1. Catch sunrise on Sanur Beach
You may be familiar with Bali’s picturesque sunsets, but did you know that the first glow of the day is just as breathtaking? Lucky for us Sanurians, our neighbourhood is one of the best spots to wake up to sunrise in Bali. The seven-kilometre coastline faces the east, drawing early birds from around the area.
Sanur Beach stretches from Mertasari Beach on the south end, and up to Padang Galak in the north. It’s also a popular place for a beachwalk or a bike ride, as the promenade is mostly paved. You can even work up a sweat as you enjoy this beauty, and join a morning run club. The largest one in the area is Sanur Run Club – you have the option to go for 5 or 10 kilometres, both routes take you along the beach.
2. Water sports with Rip Curl Surf School
Known for its flat water, you may not expect to be able to do water sports in Sanur. That’s why it’s perfect for those who want to test the waters. The world-famous Rip Curl Surf School on the south end of Sanur Beach offers a variety of lessons complete with equipment rentals: surfing, foiling, SUP-ing and kitesurfing lessons with professional instructors.
Insider tip: There are lots of spots along the beach where you can rent kayaks and canoes – popular amongst families, since the waves aren’t challenging.
3. Workout at Paradise Bali gym
If you’re wondering where active Sanur residents hang out, you’ll find them at Sanur’s popular health hub, Paradise Bali. It offers CrossFit sessions and a fully-equipped commercial gym upstairs with fun fitness classes too. Need a break from your workout? Head downstairs to the cafe for healthy bites to refuel.
Insider tip: There are also yoga shalas and pilates studios in the area, if you’re looking for a different workout option. Koa Shala is my favourite for drop-in classes, and Sunset Pilates is a popular spot for Reformer pilates sessions.
4. Join a ceramics workshop at Kevala
Feeling creative and love ceramics? Head over to Kevala Studio – one of the most well-known ceramics brands in Bali. During the regular workshops, you’ll get to make ceramic pieces while learning about pottery from the studio’s artists. Even kids can score some creative playtime with clay and paint to make a few pieces of their own!
5. Hunt graffiti arts at Bali Festival Park
With Sanur’s traditional and family-friendly vibes, a haunted park is the last thing you’d expect to find. But trust me when I say it’s worth a visit. Located in Padang Galak, this abandoned amusement park is a massive playground for the creatives.
Taman Festival Bali, AKA Bali Festival Park, was originally designed as Bali’s largest amusement park. The park was set to feature a 3D cinema, laser shows, and even a crocodile pit. But things didn’t go as planned, as financial troubles hit hard in the late 90s. The park was then abandoned before it was ever completed.
Now, Bali Festival Park is home to colourful graffiti arts. There’s everything here, from artistic pieces to the quirky ones that blend with overgrown vines. It’s been repurposed as an event space, so it’s not quite as eerie as the haunted park it used to be. But, make no mistake, it’s still one of the coolest hidden gems in the area!
Did I miss your Sanur gems? Send us a DM on Instagram or email me on vici@thehoneycombers.com to share your favourites!
FAQs on Sanur, Bali
Is Sanur worth visiting?
Absolutely! Sanur offers a serene alternative to bustling regions in Bali’s south, like Canggu or Seminyak. It’s known for its calm beaches, sunrise views, walkable coastal paths, and relaxed community feel – ideal for families, couples, and long-term visitors.
How do I get to Sanur from the airport?
Sanur is approximately a 30- to 40-minute drive from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Kuta. Options include GoJek or Grab rides, local taxis (pre-booked is more stress-free), or ask your hotel if they offer airport transfer services.
Can I walk around Sanur easily?
Yes, Sanur is one of the handful of places in Bali that’s highly walkable, especially along its paved and flat beachfront path.
Is Sanur safe for families?
Absolutely. Sanur is best known for its family-friendly atmosphere, gentle sea conditions, and walkable streets. The area is quiet, orderly, and experiences fewer tourist-driven crowds – a great choice for families and the more laid-back travellers.
Can I swim at Sanur Beach?
Yes. Sanur Beach features calm, shallow waters protected by an offshore reef, making it safe and relaxing for swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and beginner-level water sports.
Love this Sanur guide? Check out Bali’s other popular neighbourhoods too!