Sanur Beach: A Complete and Honest Guide for Couples [2025]

Sanur Beach, thoughtfully developed for tourism by the Bali government, was one of the island’s first popular destinations—and it shows. The beach is known for its laid-back vibe, attracting travelers from all around the world. Its location is a big plus for travelers, with the airport, local food shops, and crafts all nearby, so you’ll feel close to everyday conveniences. Also, the place is known to be protected by a long stretch of reef, which, as per legend, was formed by a dragon protecting the island from evil spirits.

For a couples’ getaway, its long stretch is ideal, offering ample space for long walks and a bit of camping. Moreover, Its lesser-known status adds to its charm, making it perfect for those seeking peaceful relaxation.

If you’d like to learn more, then dive into the guide below, where we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Sanur Beach.

30 Sundays Honest Review Process

At 30 Sundays, we are committed to making every couple's holiday special. 

Every sightseeing/activity goes through a rigorous review process including analysis of the online reviews, on-ground visits, and validation by our Operations team. In other words, we bring you the best and the most helpful reviews to help you plan your bookings.

Table of Contents:

• Tripadvisor Ratings & Reviews
• What Did Fellow Tourists Like About Sanur Beach?
• What Did Fellow Tourists Not Like?
• Pro-tips to Keep in Mind
• Deep-Dive into finer aspects of Sanur Beach  
• The Basic Things to Know
• Other Things to Do Near Sanur Beach  
• Hotels Near Sanur Beach  
• Restaurants Close to Sanur Beach  
• The Final Verdict
• FAQ

Tripadvisor Rating of Sanur Beach

Tripadvisor Rating: 4 (8,300 reviews)

• Excellent: 2,592
• Very Good: 3,152
• Average: 1,848
• Poor: 492
• Terrible: 216

The beach is loved by large swathes of people. It’s a long stretch of sandy beach with a paved pedestrian path for walking and cycling (along with plenty of shops and stores right on it), making it hugely loved among travelers. It also helps that the beach is not that well-known compared to other popular options, so it makes for a great escape for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of other popular Bali spots. If you come early in the morning, you can catch a glimpse of the beautiful sunrise.

Some visitors were put off by litter on the beach, while others found stray dogs to be a nuisance.

Other than this, though, on the whole, the place is well appreciated by most travelers. So it’s no wonder that the place has received amazing reviews over the years.

What Did Visitors Like About Sanur Beach?

Here are the top things that were praised by most visitors to Sanur Beach:

1. Tranquil Atmosphere: Visitors consistently praise Sanur Beach for its serene and relaxing environment. It's the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of everyday life

2. Affordability: Many travelers were pleasantly surprised by the reasonable prices for food, accommodation, and activities. Imagine savoring a delicious tenderloin steak with chips and salad for just $9.50 AU!

3. Family-Friendly: The beach's calm waters and clean environment make it an ideal spot for families with children of all ages.

4. Variety of Activities: From kayaking and swimming to cycling along the beachfront, there's no shortage of things to do at Sanur Beach.

5. Excellent Service: Visitors raved about the friendly and attentive staff at local restaurants, spas, and accommodations.

6. Beautiful Sunrises: Early risers were treated to breathtaking sunrises, painting the sky in vibrant hues.

7. Great for Couples: The romantic atmosphere and beautiful dining options make Sanur Beach a hit among couples.

What Did Visitors Dislike About Sanur Beach?

To be honest, it was hard to find many complaints about Sanur Beach. The overwhelming majority of visitors had positive experiences. But there was one complaint that was heard repeatedly.

1. Occasional Cleanliness Issues: Some visitors reported instances of litter and plastic waste on the beach and in the water, detracting from the overall experience.

2. Seaweed Presence: The presence of seaweed in the water was a concern for some beachgoers, affecting swimming conditions.

3. Shallow Waters: While great for families with young children, some visitors found the shallow waters less appealing for swimming and other water activities.

4. Local Harassment: A few visitors mentioned experiencing harassment from locals, which can be uncomfortable for some tourists.

5. Overpriced Services: Some visitors felt that certain food and services along the beach were overpriced compared to other areas in Bali.

6. Stray Dogs: The presence of stray dogs on the beach was a concern for some visitors, particularly those with young children.

Pro-Tips to Keep in Mind While Visiting Sanur Beach

Keep these ideas in mind before you visit Sanur Beach and you’ll make the best of your trip:

1. Rent a bicycle: It's an affordable and fun way to explore the area. You can rent one for as little as 10,000 rupiah for 2 hours.

2. Try a beach massage: Treat yourself to a relaxing massage right on the beach for just 100 rupiahs.

3. Watch the sunrise: Set your alarm early to catch the stunning sunrise—it's worth the early wake-up call.

4. Explore local restaurants: Don't miss out on the variety of delicious and affordable dining options in the area.

5. Book a private driver: It's an easy and reliable way to get around and explore other parts of Bali.

Deep-Dive into Finer Aspects of Sanur Beach 

If you’ve read this far you probably already have a brief idea about Sanur Beach. But as is almost always the case, there’s rarely enough to make a decision. To fix that we’ve covered some in-detail aspects of the place, things that will give you a more complete picture.

Here are a few of them:

Is It Overcrowded at Sanur Beach?

Good news for those seeking a peaceful beach experience! Sanur Beach is known for its relatively uncrowded atmosphere, especially when compared to popular spots like Kuta and Seminyak. Visitors often praise the quiet and calm ambiance, making it an excellent choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more touristy areas.

The beach tends to be particularly serene during sunrise and early morning hours, offering a tranquil start to your day. Unlike some other Balinese beaches, Sanur is not overrun with persistent sellers or hawkers, allowing you to relax without constant interruptions

Is Sanur Beach Expensive?

Contrary to what you might expect from a beautiful Balinese beach, Sanur is surprisingly affordable. Many visitors find the prices here to be very reasonable compared to other popular areas in Bali. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

1. Beach Access: The beach itself is free to access, allowing you to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea without any entrance fees.

2. Food and Drinks: You'll find a wide range of affordable options for lunch and dinner. From local warungs to beachfront restaurants, there's something to suit every budget.

3. Sun Loungers: If you want to relax in style, sun loungers are available for rent at reasonable prices.

4. Tours and Activities: Many visitors report that tours and activities can be booked at competitive rates from the beach area.

Overall, Sanur Beach offers excellent value for money, allowing you to enjoy a beautiful beach day without breaking the bank.

How Is the Local Staff at Sanur Beach?

The local staff at Sanur Beach receive high praise from visitors for their friendliness and excellent service. Here are some highlights:

1. Helpful and Knowledgeable: Staff members, including those at local tour agencies like Dayu Putri and Korman, are noted for their helpfulness and fluency in English. They're often able to assist with arranging tours and providing local information.

2. Restaurant and Bar Staff: Visitors frequently commend the service at beachfront establishments like Sand Beach Bar, noting the staff's attentiveness and friendly demeanor.

3. Community Involvement: It's not uncommon to see local people, including school children and ladies, actively participating in beach clean-up efforts, showcasing the community's commitment to maintaining the beach's beauty.

4. Hotel Staff: For those staying at beachfront hotels, many report that staff often go above and beyond, offering complimentary drop-off and pickup services to enhance the overall experience.

The warm and welcoming nature of the local staff contributes significantly to the positive experiences many visitors have at Sanur Beach.

Is It Couple-Friendly?

Sanur Beach is a fantastic destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Here's why it's ideal for lovebirds:

1. Romantic Sunrises: The beach is renowned for its breathtaking sunrises, offering couples a magical start to their day together.

2. Peaceful Atmosphere: The quiet and clean environment is perfect for couples who prefer a more serene beach experience away from the party crowds.

3. Beachfront Dining: There are numerous restaurants along the beach where couples can enjoy romantic meals with stunning ocean views.

4. Activities for Two: From kayaking to leisurely walks along the promenade, there are plenty of activities for couples to enjoy together.

5. Suitable for All Ages: Whether you're newlyweds or a couple in your late 50s/60s, Sanur Beach caters to all, offering a relaxed and comfortable environment.

6. Sunset Drinks: Many visitors recommend enjoying a few drinks on the beach as the sun sets, creating a perfect romantic end to your day.

Is It Family-Friendly?

Absolutely! Sanur Beach is highly regarded as a family-friendly destination. Here's why it's great for family outings:

1. Safe Swimming: The beach is known for its calm, shallow waters, making it safe for non-swimmers and children to enjoy.

2. Family Resorts: Many family-friendly resorts are located right on the beach, offering convenient access and amenities for families.

3. Clean Environment: The beach is generally clean and well-maintained, providing a safe place for children to play.

4. Family Activities: There are various family-friendly activities available, such as kayaking and beach games.

5. Spacious Beach: The long stretch of coastline provides ample space for families to set up and enjoy their day without feeling cramped.

6. Sunrise and Sunset Fun: Many families enjoy running along the beach or watching the beautiful sunrise and sunset together.

How's the Food at Sanur Beach?

Food lovers rejoice! Sanur Beach offers a delightful culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Here's what you can expect:

1. Diverse Options: Visitors praise the variety of restaurants and food options available along the beach.

2. Quality Cuisine: Many eateries receive high marks for the quality of their food, with particular praise for steaks, cakes, and breakfast offerings.

3. Affordable Dining: You'll find plenty of options for affordable lunches and dinners, making it easy to dine out without overspending.

4. Beachfront Dining: Many visitors enjoy the experience of having food and drinks right on the beach, adding to the overall relaxing atmosphere.

5. Local Flavors: For those wanting to try authentic Balinese cuisine, numerous warungs and food stalls are offering delicious local dishes.

6. Fresh Seafood: Being a coastal area, Sanur Beach is an excellent place to enjoy fresh seafood prepared in various styles.

Whether you're in the mood for international cuisine or local delicacies, Sanur Beach's food scene is sure to satisfy your cravings.

The Basic Things to Know About Sanur Beach  

Here are all the things you need to know about Sanur Beach:

Location of the Activity & How to Get There from Key Areas

Sanur Beach is located on the southeast coast of Bali, Indonesia. Here are the approximate distances from some key locations:

- Ubud: 30 km (about 1 hour drive)

- Seminyak: 15 km (about 30-40 minutes drive)

- Kuta: 13 km (about 30 minutes drive)

- Nusa Dua: 15 km (about 30 minutes drive)

- Uluwatu: 30 km (about 1 hour drive)

- Jimbaran: 20 km (about 40 minutes drive)

- Denpasar (capital city): 8 km (about 20 minutes drive)

Here are the best ways to get to the Sanur Beach:

- From Ubud: Take the Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra road south towards Sanur.

- From Seminyak/Kuta: Head east on Jl. Sunset Road, then take Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai towards Sanur.

- From Nusa Dua: Take Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai north towards Sanur.

- From Uluwatu: Head north on Jl. Raya Uluwatu, then east on Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai towards Sanur.

- From Jimbaran: Take Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai east towards Sanur.

Many visitors recommend hiring a private driver for convenience and ease of travel.

Entrance Fee

Good news! There is no entrance fee to access Sanur Beach. It's a public beach open to all visitors.

Timings of Sanur Beach

Sanur Beach is open 24/7, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty at any time of day. However, for safety reasons, swimming is generally recommended during daylight hours only.

Other Things to Do Close to Sanur Beach

While Sanur Beach itself offers plenty of stuff to do, there are also numerous activities in the surrounding area. This includes things such as:

1. Visit the Blanjong Pillar: Just a short distance from the beach, this historical site features the oldest known artifact in Bali.

2. Explore the Le Mayeur Museum: Learn about the life and works of Belgian painter Adrien Jean Le Mayeur de Merprès in this beachfront museum.

3. Take a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan: Catch a boat from Sanur Harbor to this beautiful island known for its clear waters and excellent snorkeling.

4. Visit the Bali Orchid Garden: A short drive from Sanur, this garden showcases a stunning variety of orchids and other tropical plants.

5. Enjoy Water Sports at Tanjung Benoa: Just south of Sanur, this area is famous for its wide range of water sports activities.

6. Explore the Mangrove Forest: Take a boat tour through the nearby mangrove forest for a unique eco-adventure.

Hotels Near Sanur Beach

Picking a hotel for your stay can get troublesome, especially with so many good options to choose from. Lucky for you, we’ve handpicked some of the best options,

Restaurants Close to Sanur Beach 

Here are a few restaurants close to the Sanur Beach that are worth checking out:

The Final Verdict

So that brings our complete guide on Sanur Beach to a close. To sum everything up the beach is well known for offering an ideal spot away from the usual happenings and noise of popular beaches of Bali. There were other great amenities, like the friendly staff and delicious food options from the shops around, that played another positive part for the people. 

Its stunning beauty, plus the calm waters that offer an opportunity for activities like kayaking, swimming, etc., will make your visit well worth the effort. It’s possible, though unlikely, that you might encounter wastage around the beach. On the whole, though, it’s a place that you ought to visit if some serene time is what you’re after.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I navigate the traffic congestion in Sanur when visiting the beach?

Traffic congestion can be an issue in Sanur, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid delays, consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late afternoon. Additionally, using local transportation options like scooters or bicycles can help you navigate the area more easily.

How do I find reliable transportation options to and from Sanur Beach?

Visitors can find reliable transportation options such as taxis, ride-sharing services, and local shuttle buses to reach Sanur Beach. It's recommended to pre-arrange transportation through reputable companies or ask your hotel for assistance to avoid scams and ensure a safe journey.

What amenities are available at Sanur Beach for visitors?

Sanur Beach offers various amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachside cafes. However, some facilities may be limited during construction or redevelopment phases in the area. It's advisable to check ahead for available services to ensure a comfortable visit.