Day Trips from Sanur. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Nearby Destinations Accessible from Sanur

Several popular Bali destinations are close to Sanur, presenting different experiences.

Ubud offers a dive into Balinese culture. Seminyak and Canggu are on Bali's southwest coast, known for upscale boutiques, dining, beach clubs, and surf breaks. Denpasar, the capital, contrasts tourist areas. Uluwatu, on the Bukit Peninsula, is famous for its clifftop temple, ocean views, and the Kecak Fire Dance.

Travel Notes

Ubud: 1-hour drive. Private car with driver, Gojek/Grab (return can be tricky), or Perama tourist shuttle. Full day (8-10 hours) for exploration.
Seminyak/Canggu: 30-45 minute drive. Taxis, Gojek, Grab. Half-day or full-day visit.
Denpasar: 20-minute drive. Taxis, Gojek, Grab. Half-day visit.
Uluwatu: 1-hour drive. Hired driver recommended. Half-day to full-day.

Natural Escapes

Bali's natural beauty extends beyond Sanur's beaches, with lush landscapes and geological features for day trips.

Nusa Islands

These three islands off Bali's southeast coast are famous for clear waters, stunning limestone cliffs, snorkeling, and diving spots. They offer a tranquil escape.

Island Highlights

Devil's Tear (Lembongan): Dramatic wave crashes.
Kelingking Beach (Penida): Iconic T-Rex shaped cliff.
Crystal Bay (Penida): Snorkeling and sunset spot, Manta Rays.

Goa Gajah & Tegenungan

Goa Gajah, a 9th-century cave temple near Ubud, features an intricately carved entrance. Tegenungan Waterfall offers a refreshing swim surrounded by lush greenery.

Access

Goa Gajah: 45-minute drive from Sanur, often combined with Ubud.
Tegenungan Waterfall: 45-minute drive from Sanur, often combined with Ubud.
Nusa Islands: Fast boats from Sanur Beach (30-45 minutes). Full day trip or overnight stay.

Cultural Excursions

Iconic Temples

Tanah Lot Temple: Iconic sea temple, 1.5 hours drive from Sanur. Half-day trip, arrive late afternoon for sunset.
Besakih Temple: Bali's largest Hindu temple complex, 2-hour drive from Sanur. Full-day trip.
Rural villages: Sidemen offers insights into farming and local crafts.
Pilgrimage sites: Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi are popular.

Beyond the Main Sites

Day trips to villages in central or east Bali for traditional farming and crafts.
Interactions with local communities in rural areas.
Numerous other temples across Bali provide unique cultural experiences.
These temple visits are often combined with Ubud tours.

Multi-Day Extensions

Spend 2-3 nights on Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida.Nusa Islands
Extend your stay in Ubud for 2-3 nights.Ubud
Explore East Bali (Candidasa, Amed, Sidemen) for 2-3 days.East Bali
Fly from DPS to Yogyakarta (Java) for cultural sites.Java

Fly from DPS to Labuan Bajo for Komodo dragons.Komodo National Park
Fast boat from Sanur or Padang Bai to Nusa Islands, Lombok, Gili Islands.Fast Boats
Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) for domestic flights.Flights
Combine Bali with Nusa Lembongan, Gili Islands, and another Indonesian island.Regional Travel

Trip Tip

For best exploration, consider a hired driver for personalized day trips across Bali.

Nearby Attractions & Activities

Beyond cultural sites, discover Sanur's local activities and nearby family destinations.

Sanur Promenade

A flat, paved pathway for cycling or walking along the coastline.

Glass-bottom Boat Tour

Explore marine life near Sanur's reefs without getting wet, often including a stop at Turtle Island.

Water Sports

Sanur's calm waters are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and kitesurfing.

Family Fun

Sanur and its surroundings present several family-friendly attractions.

Kid-friendly destinations

Bali Safari and Marine Park (Gianyar): Wildlife encounters and educational programs.
Waterbom Bali (Kuta): A large water park with various slides and attractions.
Turtle Island (Serangan): See rescued sea turtles and learn about conservation efforts.

Local Insights

Gain a appreciation for Balinese life with these local experiences.

Authentic Experiences

Balinese Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional dishes.
Traditional Dance Performances: Witness captivating cultural dances.
Sindhu Beach Night Market: Sample local street food and browse goods.

Outstanding Museums & Temples

Le Mayeur Museum: Appreciate Balinese art and history.Art & History

Pura Blanjong Temple: Historical stone pillar.Historical

Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA), Ubud.Art

Neka Art Museum, Ubud.Art

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): Ancient cave temple.Temple

Tirta Empul Temple: Holy spring water.Spiritual

Sustainable Travel Tip

Choose tour operators who respect the local environment and culture.
Support local communities by purchasing goods from small businesses.
Minimize plastic waste by using reusable water bottles and bags.
Observe cultural sites respectfully, following all guidelines.
Participate in eco-tourism activities that support conservation.

Wellness & Relaxation

Sanur, known for its tranquil atmosphere, offers numerous wellness and relaxation experiences.

Spa & Massage

Indulge in traditional Balinese spa treatments for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

Offerings

Traditional Balinese massage for deep relaxation.
Flower baths and body scrubs.
Manicures and pedicures.

Yoga & Meditation

Sanur has many yoga studios offering classes for all levels, and quiet spots for meditation.

Options

Daily yoga classes in various styles.
Meditation sessions and retreats.
Spiritual healing practices with reputable local healers.

Health & Fitness

Maintain your fitness routine with access to gyms and outdoor activities.

Active Pursuits

Fitness centers and gyms.
Jogging or walking along the Sanur Promenade.
Swimming in the calm ocean or hotel pools.

Mindful Eating

Discover cafes and restaurants catering to health-conscious diets.

Healthy Options

Vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants.
Fresh juices and smoothie bowls.
Cafes with organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Relaxation Spots

Find peaceful places to unwind and soak in the tranquil Sanur atmosphere.

Beachfront Lounges

Enjoy comfortable loungers and refreshing drinks right on the beach.

Hotel Pools

Many hotels offer serene pool areas for guest relaxation.

Quiet Gardens

Discover hidden gardens for quiet contemplation and reading.

Wellness Note

Sanur offers a serene setting for those seeking to rejuvenate body and mind during their travels.

Shopping & Dining

Sanur has a delightful mix of shopping opportunities and diverse dining experiences, from local flavors to international cuisine.

Dining Experiences

1

Beachfront Restaurants

Enjoy fresh seafood BBQs with ocean views and a relaxed ambiance.

2

Local Warungs

Taste authentic Indonesian and Balinese dishes at affordable prices.

3

International Cuisine

Find a variety of international restaurants, from Italian to Japanese.

Sindhu Beach Night Market

A bustling night market offering various street food.
Grilled seafood, satay, noodles, and local desserts.
Affordable and atmosphere.
Perfect for a casual evening meal.
Experience local flavors and culture.
A popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Shopping Opportunities

Souvenir shops along the main street (Jalan Danau Tamblingan).
Art markets with traditional Balinese crafts and paintings.
Boutiques selling clothing and accessories.
Local produce markets for fresh fruits and spices.
Duty-free shops at the airport.
Consider supporting fair trade and ethical shopping options.

Unique Finds

Handicrafts

Discover intricate wood carvings, traditional masks, and handmade jewelry.

Textiles

Explore batik fabrics, sarongs, and woven items with local patterns.

Local Products

Find Balinese coffee, spices, and natural skincare products.

Shopping Tip

Bargaining is common in markets; do so respectfully and with a smile.

Day Trips from Sanur