Table of Contents
The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Sanur
Sanur is a coastal town located in the southeastern part of Bali island, Indonesia. It is known for its calm and relaxing atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the more crowded parts of Bali. But apart from the tranquil beach and laid-back vibe, Sanur also offers a lot of sightseeing attractions that are worth visiting. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most famous sightseeing spots in Sanur.
1. Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach is undoubtedly the top attraction in this coastal town. The clean white sand beach stretches up to five kilometers along the coastline, offering picturesque views of the Indian Ocean. The beach attracts both local and international tourists, who come here to relax, sunbathe, and swim in the calm waters of the Bali Sea. It is one of the best places in Bali to watch the sunrise, with its east-facing shore providing the perfect backdrop for some stunning sunrise photos.
2. Le Mayeur Museum
Le Mayeur Museum is located on the beachfront of Sanur and houses a collection of paintings from the Belgian artist Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur. The museum was built as a tribute to the painter who settled in Bali and was enamoured with Sanur’s serene atmosphere. The building’s architecture itself is noteworthy, as it was designed to resemble a traditional Balinese house. Visitors can enjoy a glimpse of Bali’s history and culture through Le Mayeur’s art, which depicts the everyday life of Balinese people.
3. Serangan Island Turtle Conservation Centre
Serangan Island Turtle Conservation Centre is a sanctuary for sea turtles located on the eastern side of Sanur. The turtle conservation centre aims to rescue and rehabilitate sea turtles, and visitors can witness the centre’s efforts to save these endangered reptiles. The centre offers guided tours, giving visitors an opportunity to learn more about sea turtles and their conservation. You can also sponsor a turtle here and contribute to their protection.
4. Pura Blanjong (Blanjong Temple)
Pura Blanjong is a small temple located in the heart of Sanur. It is known for its ancient inscriptions written in Sanskrit, which date back to the 10th century. The inscriptions describe a military campaign led by a Balinese king named Sri Kesari Warmadewa against the neighbouring island of Java. The temple is open to visitors who want to learn about Bali’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
5. Mangrove Forest
Mangrove Forest is a natural attraction located on the eastern coast of Sanur. It is a protected area, and visitors can enjoy a boardwalk tour of the forest, which takes them deep into its lush greenery. The boardwalk is an excellent way to explore the mangrove forest without disturbing its natural inhabitants, which include various species of birds, crabs, and fish. The tour is an ideal way to learn about the importance of mangrove forests in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
Conclusion
There are plenty of sightseeing attractions to explore in Sanur, ranging from natural wonders to cultural heritage sites. The town’s blend of tradition and modernity is reflected in its monuments and natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy the town’s tranquil beach, appreciate its rich culture and history at temples and museums, and experience its unique ecology at mangrove forests and turtle conservation centres. Sanur is undoubtedly an all-in-one destination for tourists, who want to experience the best of what Bali has to offer. So, if you’re planning a Bali trip, remember to include Sanur in your itinerary!
The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Sanur
Sanur is one of Bali’s most famous tourists’ hubs. But there’s more to this town than just overcrowded beaches and resorts. As a local, I know the ins and outs, the hidden treasures, and the experiences that will leave a lasting impression. This guide brings to you Sanur’s best-kept secrets and off-beaten-tracks.
Local Attractions: Find Hidden Gems
Sanur has several lesser-known spots that even locals keep a secret. Take a stroll at the Mangrove Conservation Area, or hike Mount Batur, an active volcano that offers unparalleled views. If you still want to hit the beach, head to the rustic Sindhu Beach, famous for the colourful boats called ‘jukung.’ Try surfing, snorkeling or kite-surfing at the Serangan Beach.
One other underrated spot to visit is the Kampung Arab quarter, an area filled old houses, now turned into bohemian cafes, boutiques and shops. The best time to visit this place is during the day, where the streets are alive with trade.
Dining Spots: A Glimpse Into the Local Culture
Sanur is known for its local cuisine, including the famous babi guling, a roasted suckling pig, and sate lilit, minced fish satay. Warung Mak Beng is a popular dining spot famous for its fish dishes, especially its fish soup. Don’t forget to try ‘jaje Bali,’ bite-size delicacies that are colourful, sweet treats.
If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, head to Kayu Manis, where you can get some awesome views while you enjoy upscale dining.
Cultural Experiences: Traditions, Festivals and more
Sanur is famous for its Balinese rituals, traditional ceremonies that take place on significant days. The most famous ritual is the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade, a street parade that happens a day before Nyepi. In this parade, locals release their handmade giant effigies that they have built for weeks. Another popular festival is the Sanur Village Festival, which takes place annually, featuring art exhibitions, culinary displays, and cultural performances.
Local History: Stories From the Past
Sanur has a rich history, deeply impacted by the arrival of Bali’s first foreign settlement, dating back to 1906. But the most captivating story is woven around the Sanur Beach, where a Dutch photographer named A.J. Meerwaldt captured the calm and serene image of fishermen’s jukung boats against the sunrise. That iconic photo initiated a transformation of the sleepy town, which gradually became one of Bali’s most beautiful beaches.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences
Want to create a memorable moment on your trip? Try learning to dance with locals or take a yoga class by the beach. Take a pottery class or learn traditional Balinese carving. Want to go on a countryside tour? Head to the nearby Tenganan Pegringsingan, a traditional village with unique architecture and customs.
In conclusion, Sanur has so much to offer beyond the typical tourism spots. With this insider’s guide, you can get a glimpse of the city’s hidden gems, hidden delicacies, and local cultural experiences. Add an adventurous and unique twist to your trip by trying out the off-beaten-tracks. Happy exploring!
