Purrfect Pause: Spend Time at the Sanur Cat Cafe

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Complete Guide to Sanur: Beaches, Transport, Safety & Travel Tips

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 Maya Sanur Hotel – Davy Sukamta Partners


Sanur may not get the same headlines as Canggu or Ubud, but it’s a gem in its own right — calm, scenic, and full of hidden treasures. Whether you're planning a quiet beach getaway or using Sanur as a launchpad for island-hopping, this guide covers everything you need to know: from getting around, where to stay, and beach tips, to safety, nightlife, and the best time to visit.

✈️ Getting To & Around Sanur

If you’re staying near Sanur Beach or on Jalan Danau Tamblingan, you’ll find that most of the area is easily walkable. Everything from cafes and massage shops to the beach and markets are usually within a short stroll.

For getting around town:

  • Ride-hailing apps like Grab and GoJek are the best choice — cheaper and more convenient than Bluebird taxis.

  • Scooter rental is an option for more independence, though traffic can be tricky if you’re new to Bali.

  • Private drivers can be hired by the day for longer trips or sightseeing.

  • Airport transfers can be arranged by your hotel or online.

Unlike other places in Bali, Sanur doesn’t have the aggressive taxi mafia you’ll find in areas like Ubud, which makes getting around much more relaxed.

🌴 Best Beaches In Sanur

While Sanur is more laid-back than other Bali beaches, it still offers some gorgeous spots to unwind:

⭐ Segara Beach (Tandjung Sari Area)

This beach is a favorite among regulars. It has soft white sand, palm trees, and well-maintained grounds, thanks to the resort that sits in front of it. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for relaxing.

⭐ Hyatt Regency Beach

This stretch is especially photogenic with its traditional jukung boats and clear sunrise views of Mount Agung. The beachfront here is lively, especially in the early morning when joggers hit the trail.

👋 Dealing With Beach Sellers

Yes, beach sellers are part of the Bali experience. You’ll encounter locals selling trinkets like bracelets, wood carvings, kites, and souvenirs. Thankfully, in Sanur, they’re generally less aggressive than in areas like Kuta.

A few quick tips:

  • A polite “no thank you” or “tidak” (Indonesian for “no”) usually works.

  • Avoid prolonged eye contact or saying “maybe later” — it can encourage persistence.

  • Don’t hand out cash to get them to leave — it may attract more sellers.

On Jalan Danau Tamblingan, you might also get offers from local drivers or tour sellers. Just smile and walk on if you’re not interested.

🌅 What To Do In Sanur At Night

Sanur isn’t a party town, but there’s a subtle charm to its nightlife. Here are a few options:

  • Sindhu Night Market – Bustling with locals, this is the place to go for cheap, delicious street food until late (around 11 PM).

  • Beach Bars – Relax with a drink at Casablanca, Arena Pub, Bamboo Bar, or Sand Beach Bar.

  • Rooftop Dining – For a special evening, head to the Maya Resort. Its rooftop dining area offers one of the few places in Sanur with a decent sunset view.

Sanur Beach: A Special Economic Zone | Bali Discovery

🦺 Is Sanur Safe?

Yes — Sanur is one of the safest places in Bali. It’s quiet, family-friendly, and very walkable. You’ll even see photographers and joggers out before dawn capturing the famous Sanur sunrise.

A few precautions to keep in mind:

  • Phone snatching from passing scooters is the most common petty crime in Bali. Stay alert near roads, and don’t use your phone too close to traffic.

  • Keep an eye on your bags when sitting at cafes or beach areas.

That said, violent crime is extremely rare, and most travelers feel very secure in Sanur.

🐠 Snorkeling in Sanur (Or Not)

Let’s be honest — Sanur is not a great snorkeling spot. The water visibility is often poor, and the coral isn’t impressive. But don’t worry!

✅ Go To Nusa Penida

You can easily hop on a boat to Nusa Penida from Sanur’s harbor. This island offers some of the best snorkeling in Bali, including:

  • Manta ray encounters

  • Colorful coral reefs

  • Clear turquoise water

You can book a Nusa Penida day tour with snorkeling (complete with hotel pickup and transfers) or head over and book a boat locally.

🗓️ When To Visit Sanur

Sanur is a year-round destination, but the experience can vary depending on the season:

☀ Dry Season (May – August)

  • Sunny skies and cool breezes

  • Best time for outdoor activities and beach days

  • Peak tourist season, so it’s more crowded

☁ Rainy Season (November – April)

  • Hot and humid, with most rain in the evenings

  • Fewer crowds and better deals

  • Still great for early morning activities and cultural experiences

The Sanur Village Festival and other local events usually take place in the dry season, adding extra flavor to your visit.

🏨 Where To Stay In Sanur

Here are a few favorites across different budgets:

Luxury

  • Andaz Bali – Sleek beachfront resort with modern villas

  • Maya Sanur Resort & Spa – Stylish with a rooftop bar and beachfront access

Mid-range

  • Tandjung Sari – A classic Balinese-style resort with charm and heritage

  • Swastika Bungalows – Comfortable and cozy, great value for money

Budget

  • Nesa Sanur Hotel – Quiet and central, great for travelers on a budget

  • Semarandana Hotel – Clean and walkable to the beach

🧭 Final Tips

  • Sanur is a great base if you're planning to explore east and central Bali or visit the Nusa islands.

  • The beachfront walking path is perfect for morning jogs or leisurely strolls.

  • Be sure to catch at least one sunrise at Sanur Beach — they’re legendary for a reason.

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