When you think of the best beaches in Bali, Kuta, Uluwatu, and Seminyak, will come to mind. Sanur beaches are often overlooked.
I never really considered Sanur for its beaches or as a destination in general. I initially went there to have a good night’s sleep before heading to Nusa Penida early the next day.
To my surprise, I found that this this coastal town east of Bali has the best crowd-free calm beaches that are perfect for walks day and night!
Best part? The beaches in Sanur are all within walking distance of each other! Here are the top beaches in Sanur:
Does Sanur have nice beaches?
Yes, Sanur has some of Bali’s most quiet and charming beaches.
It has calm waters, soft golden sands, and a breathtaking view of Mount Agung. Some beaches in Sanur are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
But what I love most is taking a night stroll along the shore and checking out some beachfront cafes, and traditional warungs and having a good gelato.
While you won’t find beach parties, surfing waves, or massive cliffs here, Sanur beaches offer a quieter, more relaxed beach experience in Bali.
Sanur Beach – Best Beach for Relaxation
Sanur Beach has peaceful, crystal-clear waters that look magical in the early mornings. It’s the perfect place to unwind and take long walks.
You can wake up early to witness Sanur’s iconic sunrise and enjoy a quick swim. Or spend a laid-back evening at the hip local bars and restaurants.
And if you’re like me who’s always on the hunt for an adventure, Sanur has various water sports available: snorkeling, diving, jet skiing, kayaking, and more!
PRO TIP: If you’re in Sanur around July or August, check out the famous Kite Festival and Arts Festival!
Sindhu Beach – Best for Local Food
Just a short walk from Sanur Beach, Sindhu Beach is the perfect place to find local food. Walk along its white sand and enjoy the aroma of morning coffee brews all around you.
Sindhu has several local restaurants along the shoreline and even authentic gelato! I just needed to add that because I always want an ice cream during my trip (I hope you do too!)
PRO TIP: Do not miss the Sindhu Night Market. It’s not the biggest night market in Bali but it has some of the best warungs we’ve encountered! The friendliest too!
Matahari Terbit Beach – Best Sanur Beach for Sunrise
Known as “Sunrise Beach”, Matahari Terbit Beach offers the best sunrise view among all the Sanur beaches.
Visit at 5:30 AM, and you’ll see why. Enjoy morning coffee from the new coffee carts that attract long lines early in the morning.
The charm of Sunrise Beach extends beyond the morning. At night, you’ll see young people gather to enjoy the cool breeze and good music, especially on weekends.
Karang Beach – Best Beach for Family
Karang Beach is a true family favorite. The wide paved walkways, clean sand, and shallow waters create a lovely and safe atmosphere for both kids and adults to swim and play.
I recommend allotting a few hours in the morning to rent a bicycle (or walk!) to the small Karang pagoda.
It’s at the end of a walkway that juts out of the shore and into the water. There are swings on the beach too for some extra fun.
It’s also common to see small families boating to a small man-made island near the shore where they take memorable family photos. It’s worth a try!
Cemara Beach – Best Beach for Swimming
Cemara Beach may have a thinner beachfront area, but it competes with other Sanur beaches for having the best-maintained sand and peak swimming conditions.
I’m amazed by how clear the turquoise water and clean the golden sand is! Pack your sunscreen because you’ll want to stay out on a scenic beach like this.
Many restaurants in Cemara Beach offer al fresco dining just a few meters away from the water. A dining experience with the sound of the waves as background music? Count me in.
Segara Ayu Beach – Best Beach for Picnics
Segara Ayu Beach offers a tree-lined shore with fishing boats gently floating on calm waters.
You can even see Mount Agung in the distance! It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic under the shade.
Although it’s not as quiet as it used to be, locals and tourists still visit for peace and contemplation. It’s best to go on a weekday to avoid the crowds and have the beach almost to yourself.
There are several warungs, cafes, and food stalls around where you can buy snacks, including fresh seafood.
Pantai Bangsal – Best Beach for Morning Jogs
Nothing beats a sunrise jog. Like many of Sanur’s east-facing beaches, Pantai Bangsal offers a stunning sunrise view.
Combine that with a long, paved jogging track along the shore, and you have a perfect setting for a beautifully active morning.
At night, the beach is well-lit. Here you can try some of Pantai Bangsal’s food stall specialties: delicious grilled corn, spring rolls, grilled fish, and cold drinks.
Sadly, there has been an increase in littering at the beach recently. Please remember to dispose of your trash responsibly to keep Pantai Bangsal clean and beautiful.
Mertasari Beach – Best Beach in Sanur for Kite-Flying
If you enjoy interacting with locals, you’ll find them at Mertasari Beach. Its strong winds make it a favorite spot for Sanur residents who love kite-flying. It’s a popular spot for families with kids.
It’s also a famous spot for watersports like paragliding, kayaking, and fishing.
Come here to relax or for some adrenaline rush. And when you’re done, don’t miss the live music shows on Saturday nights!
Pantai Duyung – Best Sanur Beach for Surfing
Although Sanur is not famous for surfing as I mentioned, there is one beach that is becoming a new favorite surfing destination in Bali.
Also known as “Hyatt Beach”, Pantai Duyung is famous for the “Hyatt Reef,” a reef break that creates the big waves surfers crave.
The area is home to many small, friendly surf schools that welcome everyone to enjoy Duyung’s strong waves.
The beach itself is a beauty with its stunning white sand and countless tall trees that create the perfect spots to relax before you catch the waves.
Pantai Padang Galak – Best Quiet Beach in Sanur
Out of all the best Sanur beaches, Padang Galak Beach is the most unique. The sand here is black, and it’s not a popular swimming spot, nor are there many boats.
The charm of Padang Galak is in its quiet atmosphere. Although swimming is not advised due to the powerful current, I highly recommend taking short breaks on the steps along the black beach while enjoying the rare view.
It’s also a common spot for Hindu rituals and yadnya (offering ceremonies) because of the nearby temple. Remember to stay respectful and considerate of their practices during your visit.
Best Time To Visit Beaches in Sanur
The best time to visit the beaches in Sanur is during the dry season, which runs from April to October.
During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, with less humidity. You can expect plenty of sunshine, calm waters, and minimal rainfall, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports.
If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder months of April or October.
Where to Stay in Sanur
Loven Sanur Guest House
I love staying in homestays in Bali because it’s one of the best ways to learn about the culture and support the community.
We stayed at Loven Sanur Guest House and were amazed by how clean and comfortable their rooms are for such an affordable price.
Located in a peaceful spot, it’s just a short walk from the beach and local eateries. The hosts also helped us a lot with scooters, boats, and insider tips!
Artotel Sanur – Bali
Add a unique touch to your trip to Sanur with this vibrant, art-inspired modern hotel. Here you’ll enjoy a refreshing outdoor pool and stylish rooms, all just a short walk from the beach.
Stay here and indulge one of the best buffet breakfast you’ll ever have, specially with its wide selection of tropical fruit.
Check in Booking.com
Check in Agoda
Maya Sanur Resort & Spa
If you’re looking for luxury at a beautiful beachfront location, Maya Sanur Resort & Spa is the perfect choice. The resort features stunning rooms with ocean views, a peaceful atmosphere, and top amenities like a full-service spa, yoga classes and gourmet dining.
Start your day at the Tree Bar restaurant with a coffee and enjoy one of the best sunrises you’ll ever see from 6 am!
Check in Booking.com
Check in Agoda
🤩 Find the BEST stays in Sanur – take 5% off with code “GLADISTRAVELS”
Is it safe to swim at Sanur beach?
Yes, it’s generally safe to swim at Sanur Beach. It has calm and shallow waters because a reef protects the beach from strong currents and big waves.
Just note that Sanur beaches are mostly connected and some beaches are not ideal for swimming because of sharp rocks.
Is Sanur beach clean?
Yes, Sanur Beach is clean and well-maintained. You’ll often see the local community cleaning the area.
However, you’ll also see plastics from time to time. Take part in keeping the area clean by disposing of your trash properly during your visit.
Is it better to stay in Kuta or Sanur?
Kuta is great for those who love lively nightlife, shopping, and surfing. Sanur is best for a quieter and more relaxed escape with its calm beaches and charming vibe.
Which part of Sanur is best?
The best part of Sanur Beach is in the south, along Jl. Segara Ayu. Here you’ll find a beautiful, wide sandy beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and relaxing.
This area also has a great mix of local eateries, beachfront cafes, and relaxed resorts.
Is Sanur safe at night?
Sanur is generally safe at night. It has a relaxed atmosphere and a strong presence of local security.
The area is popular among tourists and has well-lit streets. However, as with any destination, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings.
We walked around the area late at night and felt safe throughout our visit.
Wrap Up: Sanur Best Beaches
So there you have it — the best beaches to visit in Sanur.
Whether you’re with family, looking for thrilling watersports, or simply looking for a place to relax before your boat transfer, you’ll find a beach to love in Sanur.
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Slow Travel Planning Guide
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🏩 What’s the best way to book accommodations in Bali?
It depends. Booking.com is my go-to platform for hotels and apartments. If I want to save money on hostels, I use Hostel World.
And for longer stays where I want a cozy home, I book VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
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I find the best local tours with Klook, thanks to its vast selection across Asia. Get 5% off by using the code “GLADISTRAVELS”
For truly unique and authentic local experiences, GetYourGuide is my go-to. I’ve taken cooking classes with local chefs and gone on guided tours of hidden places using both platforms. I’m really happy with how everything turned out.
🚗 Is renting a motorbike a good idea in Bali?
Absolutely! If you can drive a motorbike, I highly recommend renting one through BikesBooking. Bali doesn’t have a good public transport. We saved a lot of time and money in Bali by having a motorbike, and it was so much fun!
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I use my Wise card. Wise.com provides free global accounts and the most affordable money transfers. I can manage multiple currencies easily and withdraw cash at very low costs. Plus, I find their exchange rates are among the best available!
