9 Best Things to Do for a Serene Honeymoon in Sanur Bali
Sanur Bali is one of the places you must consider if you are looking for a relaxing and peaceful honeymoon away from the bustling and crowded areas. The charming little town is located in the southeast part of Bali Island, and in contrast to the busy and party-filled centres like Kuta and Seminyak. Now, laid back doesn’t always equate to dull or uninteresting – as Sanur definitely offers a treasure trove of adventures and activities, especially for couples who are experiencing this side of Bali for the first time. In this issue, we list down 9 of the best things you can do to make sure that your honeymoon in Sanur Bali is as memorable as it is serene.
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Where to Stay in Sanur Bali
The Samata
Couples who want to be pampered will love their Spa Suite. We had the pleasure of staying there during our visit, and we really enjoyed the one-hour free massage we had every night. Their villa, on the other hand, is an experience of its own. Every morning, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast while looking at the serene view of the pool and the rice paddies. We could also hear the ocean waves inside our villa. It made our holiday in Sanur even more relaxing. The Samata Sanur is probably one of the best places to stay in Bali for newlyweds who want to have some private time all to themselves. This luxurious villa resort is designed mostly for visitors who are health conscious. It features fitness and sports facilities, healthy dining options, as well as complete relaxation and wellness.
Tip: Don’t miss the private yoga session at The Samata. I had it for 2 days and Dessy, a lovely instructor who is also one of the highly recommended spa therapists, conducted the session for me.
THE SAMATA
Jalan Pucuk I No.67, Tangtu, East Denpasar, Kesiman Kertalangu, Bali 80237
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bliss@thesamata.com | +62 361 466 229
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What To Do in Sanur Bali
1. Experience the Balinese Culture at Pura Tirta Empul
At the heart of Balinese culture is their Hindu traditions, and Pura Tirta Empul embodies it in all its wonder and glory. The national cultural heritage site, also known as the Holy water temple, is located in the village of Manukaya, near Ubud. It houses Hindu shrines and a huge pond full of koi fish. As a sign of respect, you must follow the dress code when entering the site. The traditional cloth is called sarong, and you can rent it upon entering the temple.
A popular spot in the temple is a bathing structure that is said to be for ritual purification. Referred to as the holy spring, it was mostly for local Balinese Hindu worshippers but is now also open for tourists who want to cleanse themselves with the blessed water. It is a nice opportunity to say your thank yous and prayers for your new journey as a couple. The temple gets pretty busy though, so for a less crowded, sacred bathing pool experience, you can also visit Pura Mengening.Â
Pura Tirta Empul
Location: Jl. Tampaksiring, Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia
Entrance Fee: ~S$4.90 (adult) ~S$2.45 (child)
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m
2. Savour the untouched nature of Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is part of the three Nusa Islands in the southeast of Indonesia. It is mostly an exotic and undeveloped area divided into the east and the west coast. Here you can see white sand, clear blue waters, and coastal cliffs that add to the beauty of the island. For this trip, we booked Nusa Penida Full Day Trip so we didn’t have to worry about parking fees that these beaches may have.Â
West Coast Nusa Penida
In the west coast of Nusa Penida lies the Kelingking beach. It has one of the most amazing views of the ocean, and the land itself is an attraction due to its interesting dinosaur head shape – the popular T-Rex. Going down to the beach is not an easy task, but if you are up to a 60-minute hike down a steep path, you will be rewarded with the cool blue waters perfect for swimming. However, take note that going back up might take you at least two hours.
Kelingking Beach
Bunga Mekar, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
Forty-five minutes away from Kelingking is the Broken Beach. You can reach this either via motorbike or speedboat. It has a small cove with an archway that serves as the passage of the water from and into the ocean. My favourite spot, however, is the natural infinity pool a hundred and fifty metres away from the beach. Angel’s Billabong overlooks the vast ocean and has one of the clearest water I’ve ever seen.
Broken Beach
Bunga Mekar, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
East Coast Nusa Penida
A hidden gem located in the eastern part of Nusa Penida, Diamond Beach was inaccessible to the public before a set of stairs was carved onto the side of a limestone cliff surrounding the area. The beach isn’t the best for swimming, but if you are after the majestic views of shimmering turquoise sea, rock pools, palm trees, and a long stretch of untouched white sand,  then you will definitely enjoy this place.
Diamond Beach
Pejukutan, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
Next to Diamond Beach is Atuh beach, another must-see spot in the east coast of Nusa Penida. Also called the “Hidden Beach,” Atuh is closely guarded by cliffs and rock formation. The beach is susceptible to the tide, so make that you visit it during high tide. Better yet, visit it at sunrise and relish in the breathtaking view of the sun as it rises through an arch at the beach. The reflection of sunlight in the water is truly magical.
Atuh Beach
Pejukutan, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
3. Explore the Balinese architecture at Museum Le Mayeur
Le Mayeur Museum is the very first museum in Sanur back when it was just a fishing village. This is an excellent place for artists and couples to visit as this was where the Belgian artist Adrian Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres and his young wife used to live. His artworks include the paintings of his wife and the beauty and culture of Bali – truly an epitome of love and art. The compound of the museum reflects the Balinese architectural style. This historical place is just across the Sanur Beaches and is easily accessible to tourists.
Le Mayeur Museum
Location: Jalan Hang Tuah, Sanur Kaja, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Entrance Fee: ~S$4.90 (adult) ~S$2.45 (child)
Opening Hours: Friday – 8:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m | Saturday to Thursday – 8:30 a.m to 3:30 p.m
4. Have your ultimate beach club experience at Artotel Beach Club
Artotel Beach Club, a 7000 square-meter beach club oasis, offers a wide array of comforting food and drinks with fresh produce ingredients locally available in the island. With an unparalleled beachfront view and direct access to the beach, it aims to provide a unique Sanur charm and warmth with upgraded and enhanced contemporary refinements for all tourists alike.
The two-storey beach club paradise features a designer swimming pool and has three cool bars. Their Happy Hour starts from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. every Sunday – Tuesday, where you can enjoy a special price for their selected beers, wine, and cocktails. They serve two cocktails for the price of one! You can also customise your breakfast from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m everyday – a haven for couples who love to combine and try out new and unique dishes.
Artotel Beach Club
Location: Jl. Danau Tamblingan no. 35 Sanur Bali 80228 Indonesia
reservation@artotelbeachclub.com | +62 361 4491 888
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5. Join the Bali Kite Festival and try kite surfing
One of the activities that couples can enjoy during your Sanur vacation is the Kite Festival. Held every July, the festival is said to be a way to thank the heavens for the prosperity of harvests. Over time, it evolved into a competition and participants all over Bali and even from neighbouring countries gather in Padanggalak for the tournament. You better have your camera ready to capture the colourful event as hundreds of kites with different designs and sizes can be seen across the skies of Padanggalak.
Sanur Bali is known for its calm and child-friendly beaches, so an ordinary board surfing activity is not part of what they offer. But that doesn’t mean that you cannot have water sports anymore. What Sanur has is its strong wind perfect for kite surfing. Since most of the beaches now have kite surfing as part of their attraction, first-time surfers can now enjoy this activity with the help of instructors. Do not miss adding this experience to your list!
6. Visit the Turtle Conservation and Education Center
A small act of kindness goes a long way. Make your Bali honeymoon even more meaningful by doing a small good deed and sharing the love you have towards these cute little turtles. The Turtle Conservation and Education Centre located in Serangan is just a short ride from Sanur. It was established to protect the turtles from illegal trading and to prevent them from being extinct.
There is no required entrance fee when you visit, but a donation is encouraged. For approximately S$15, you can adopt a baby turtle and free this little creature for a chance to survive at sea. You and your partner can also spend a day as volunteers. Afterwhich, you can also buy souvenirs made by locals. Every penny donated is used to maintain the condition of the sanctuary. It is indeed a rewarding experience; it will make your heart full.
Turtle Conservation and Education Center
Location: Jalan Tukad Punggawa, Serangan, Denpasar, Bali 80229 Indonesia
edysemara@gmail.com | info.tcec@gmail.com
+62 81 338 490357
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7. Walk along the coastline and watch the sunset at Pantai Karang Sanur Beach
Pantai Karang is a small beach located in a secluded part of Sanur. Just like Sanur’s many beaches, swimming, and kayaking are the best activities to enjoy in Pantai Karang. But what I like the most is the sunset view it offers. It would make the best backdrop when taking memorable pictures with your partner. You can also take a walk any time as there are tree-shaded spots and gazebos for resting or a picnic.Â
Another thing I enjoyed was spending an afternoon at the coastline. It was probably one of the most relaxing things I did during my stay in Sanur. This place is so breathtaking, especially during the afternoon as you get the watch the magnificent sunset and listen to the waves. Since this is just near the beaches, many tourists gather here to enjoy the view. Couples can spend sweet time by just walking hand in hand or renting a bicycle and riding along the paved pathway of the coastline. You may also stop by the stalls that sell food and refreshments. Â
8. Sign up for a Balinese cooking classÂ
While getting to taste authentic Balinese dishes is an experience in itself, trying to cook it yourself seems more rewarding and fun. The Samata offers a Balinese cooking class that will help you discover and learn about the Balinese cuisine – from its secrets to culinary heritage. You will be guided through a hands-on-lesson with their expert chefs.
The best thing about this class is probably the takeaway recipes that you can recreate at home. The ingredients are also included in the cooking class package as well as a Samata Sanur apron. At the end of the class, you will have a Cooking Class certificate – the perfect memento that encapsulates the moment.
9. Shop & dine like a local at the Sanur Night Market
The entire Bali Island is known for its nightlife activities, and Sanur is no different. But instead of pubs and hubs, Sanur’s nightlife is all about its night market or more specifically, Sindu Night market. Here you will find a variety of products and food. Just after sundown, stalls begin to open. Before sunrise, the place is very much alive. The market is also clean despite having over a hundred booths in the area.
One of my discoveries is Kedai Roponggi. It is a small stall recommended by tourists because of its desserts and bread. I tried the chicken satay from one of the stalls, and it was really amazing. If you’re looking to try authentic Indonesian flavours, this is the best spot to head to.
Where to Eat in Sanur Bali
Warung Pan Kuncung
Craving for some seafood? Take time to visit Warung Pan Kuncung in Jalan Pajang Sari in Denpasar. The small family restaurant serves mouth-watering seafood dishes at a low price. Their specialty is a fried crab dish drizzled with some special sauce. It’s a bit on the spicy side like most of their dishes, but the taste is heavenly. Other kinds of seafood such as squid, fish, shrimp, octopus and lobster are also available.
The atmosphere in the restaurant is homey. Simple mural art and a small koi pond decorate the place. And with the space only enough to sit 25 to 30 people, you can enjoy your delicious meal comfortably. Meals can range from S$3 to S$7.
Warung Pan Kuncung
Location: Sanur, Jl. Pejang Sari Gg. IV, Sanur Kauh, Kec. Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228, Indonesia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Meal price: ~S$15 for two *Cash only
Warung Kecil
Warung Kecil is another food place in Sanur where tourists love to eat. They sell authentic Balinese cuisine with a twist. It follows a buffet-style concept wherein you get to choose from different kinds of rice, meat, and a variety of vegetarian dishes that veggie lovers will enjoy.
The best time to go to this Warung is in the morning as the best dishes are served at the beginning of the day. With only 6 tables, this place is more often than not fully packed with tourists from all over the Sanur beaches.Â
Warung Kecil
Location: Jl. Duyung No.1, Sanur, Kec. Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228, Indonesia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Meal price: ~S$12 for two *Cash only
Nasi Ayam Men Weti
One of the must-try food in Bali is the Nasi Ayam Men Weti. I was able to find it in just a small stall near Sanur beach market. The warung honestly looks unappealing at first glance, but the long line of customers, locals, and tourists, waiting to grab a taste of their signature dish should cue you in on what to expect.
When I finally had my hands on the native Indonesian cuisine, I tell you – the food is legendary. It is made of rice topped with shredded chicken, egg, peanuts, vegetables, and other Balinese ingredients. With the final touch of their chilli sauce and the crispy chicken skin, I couldn’t resist getting – the elements create a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and spicy flavours. You might want to ask the server to tone down the chilli though If you are not a fan of spicy things.
Nasi Ayam Men Weti
Location: Jl. Segara Ayu, Sanur, Denpasar, Indonesia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Meal price: ~S$4 per meal (including iced tea) *Cash only
Massimo Bali
While eating traditional cuisines in local warungs make a really memorable experience, having an intimate dinner is also a must on every honeymoon. Sanur Italian Restaurant Massimo is an ideal place for such activity. The restaurant offers an old colonial feel, sophisticated and quiet with soft background music. It is a bit on the pricey side, but they serve authentic and really good Italian food. I also loved their homemade gelato bar just outside the restaurant.
Massimo Bali
Location: Jl. Danau Tamblingan 228, Sanur Bali
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Meal price: ~S$40 for two *Cash and Cards
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