Sanur Bali – A Coastal Blend of Tradition and Modern Living
Sanur is a coastal town with a rich history and a fresh, evolving appeal. Located in Denpasar Province on the southeastern coast of Bali, Sanur has long been known to locals and explorers for its golden sands, gentle waves, and laid-back charm. But in recent years, this once quiet seaside village has developed rapidly into a destination that blends tradition and modern living seamlessly.
A Bit of History
Sanur’s roots run deep. Records show that the area was already mentioned in inscriptions as far back as 917 AD, associated with the ancient Kingdom of Warmadewa. The historic Blanjong stone, found in the southern part of Sanur, is evidence of these early days. In the colonial period, Sanur was one of the landing spots for Dutch forces during the 1906 conflict known as Puputan Badung. It was also in the early 20th century that European artists such as Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur arrived in Bali and were captivated by Sanur’s tranquil beauty — Le Mayeur built a studio and eventually his home there. Today, his residence is preserved as the Le Mayeur Museum, one of Sanur’s cultural landmarks.
Recent Development & Modern Amenities
Over the past few years, Sanur has seen significant development. The opening of ICON Bali Mall in June 2024 marked a milestone: this premium mall brings both local and international shopping, dining, and entertainment options to the heart of Sanur. Brands such as Uniqlo, Sephora, Michael Kors, and others now operate here, making Sanur not only a beach destination but also a place to shop and spend leisure time.
Sanur has also been designated a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) focused on tourism, health, and wellness. Among the new infrastructure developments is a new international hospital, improvements to the beachfront promenade, and an overall upgrading of retail and dining options, particularly along Jl. Tamblingan, which has become increasingly vibrant.
Key Highlights: Sanur Today
- The 6-kilometer beachfront promenade that runs along Sanur Beach is perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, with many cafes, restaurants, and shops lining the path.
- Jl. Tamblingan, the main street, has seen a major upgrade: more diverse restaurants, boutique shops, wellness centres — a growing hub of local and expat social life.
- Sanur’s healthcare infrastructure is improving with the new international hospital serving both locals and expatriates.
With the tourism improvements and SEZ status, there are more high-end hotels, improved road access, and richer amenities (shopping, dining, leisure) than in past decades.
For those considering Sanur as a home base or investment location: this area offers balance. You get beach views, a relaxed pace, yet access to good infrastructure and modern comforts. Being part of Denpasar Province, you also benefit from governmental services, access to Denpasar’s transportation network, and proximity to Bali’s overall amenities. (If you want to learn more about Denpasar province, click through to our Denpasar / Badung page.)
If you are interested in owning a property in Sanur, click the Sanur real estate button below to explore our current offerings in this desirable location.
