Sanur is a wonderful place to live, and in this article, I’ll go through my top 10 reasons outlining why living in Sanur might be the perfect choice for you.when deciding on where to be in Bali.
Of course ten things isn’t enough to really capture the magic, but I had fun writing this as the points came so easily. Sanur really is a great place to live and I hope you enjoy reading about the place I call home.
The beach
The town runs along a stretch of the east coast of Bali, and running its entire length parallel to the main street is the beach.
A fringing reef runs offshore along the entire length of the beach enclosing the sea next to the shore. The water is shallow from the beach right out to the reef and still as well, so ideal for taking the kids for a quick dip on an especially hot day.
At roughly 5km long, the path which runs along the beach is about the perfect length for a leisurely stroll, of jog if you’re feeling active. (Or rent a push bike for a few hours)
Along its length are local craft shops, restaurants, beach clubs (see later in this article) and resorts.
You will never run out of options for places to sit and have a drink or two or a tasty meal.
Bars and restaurants
You can dine to your heart’s content. Sanur has all cuisines represented in the restaurant scene. From 5* gourmet dining to the humblest of tasty street food.
Nightlife may be more laid back than other areas of Bali, but that’s not to say you can’t have a great night out if you’re living in Sanur.
Casablanca, perhaps Sanur’s biggest bar, is always buzzing and Linga Longa down the road is also a great place for live music, with people often dancing on the tables near the end of an evening of rocking tunes.
If you fancy a slightly slower and more relaxed pace there are many restaurants with live music to serenade you whilst dining.
Shopping
Although there are no big malls in Sanur (Denpasar is only 5 minutes’ drive away, and one is being built in Sanur at the time of writing) there are still many opportunities to shop for a bargain.
Jalan Danau Tamblingan (the main street) has many local shops selling all sorts of items produced in Bali.
There are also a number of delis where you can pick up delicious treats, numerous bakeries selling freshly baked bread and pastries (I recommend Roti Made) and wine stores
Beach clubs.
There are many smaller restaurants along the beach but not so many beach clubs as such. That said I included this section because I get to mention one of my favourite hangouts, Artotel beach club.
An amazing bamboo building right on the beachfront with a large pool open to anyone visiting.
The beach has daybeds laid out where you can lie back, relax and enjoy the amazing food and ice cold drinks, including a choice of cocktails and mocktails.
A wonderful place to go with friends, enjoy a dip and really relax.
Watersports.
Sanur is a great launch off point to access the water. Kite surfing and surfing lessons right from the beach. Easy access to boats that will take you over to some of the most beautiful snorkelling and diving spots in the world.
The location
Sanur is perfectly placed. Want to really have a clubbing night out? Kuta and the bigger beach clubs are just a short ride away. Want to access the bigger malls in Bali for some serious retail therapy? Denpasar is right on the doorstep. Flying out for a quick holiday or business meeting? The airport is only ¾ of an hour away. Fancy a trip up the East coast to see the sights or to travel up to Ubud for the day? All in close reach of Sanur
The night market
During the day you can find various sellers of street food around various parts of the town, but it’s in the evening when it all comes together.
The night market is the place where street food sellers gather in the evenings to sell their delicious local cuisine.
Fried rice, chicken, local desserts and my favourite, mertabak. So much tasty choice in one place, and all at bargain prices. A must visit if living in Sanur.
Hatten wines
Sanur is home to the award-winning local wine producer Hatten wines. They have a wonderful new building on the outskirts of Sanur where from 4.00 pm each day they have free wine tasting sessions.
Pop along, test your pallet and come away with a bottle or two of quality and very reasonably priced wine.
The Sunday market
This popular market is held every month in the grounds of the Mercure resort in Sanur. With lots of stalls, there’s always something new to take a look at.
The event also hosts a food court style eating area n the lawns hosting food from local shops and eateries. Perfect for lunch and inspiration for your next evening out.
It’s also a great place to catch up with other people living in Sanur, and beyond!
The vibe
Summary – 10 reasons for living in Sanur
Living in Sanur is wonderful, there is a really laid back feel to the town and as I hope you can see there is plenty to see and do. It’s small enough to be cosy and big enough that you’ll never find yourself wanting.
Sanur, a real jewel in the crown.
