Cool Bali Villas Local Guide
Welcome to Bali
Incredible Bali more commonly referred to as the Island of the Gods.
The most popular destination in Indonesia is home to the unique Hindu culture. From the moment you step off the plane you’ll notice men and women in traditional dress, gigantic statues depicting the ancient gods and small colourful offerings and flowers at road junctions, doorways and temples.
Discovered by surfers in the 70’s Bali has become a much loved and treasured place. From the world class surf breaks to the coral reef dive sites to the stunning rice terraces to the breath-taking volcanoes to the daily cultural celebrations to the dazzling markets and to the abundance of restaurants. Bali really does have something for everyone.
Wherever you go you will be welcomed with a stunning smile… Selamat datang di Bali.
Distinctive Regions of East & West
Go East for a more relaxed vibe and Sanur has it all. A safe swimming area created by the natural reef and views of Mount Agung. Up the coast for legendary surf and competitions at Keramas and onto unspoiled Jasri.
Day trips to Ubud and the interior are a must to see the verdant rice terraces and to soak up the cultural heritage.
Sanur
Legian
Canggu
Jasri
Keramas
Seminyak
Sanur – East Coast
Looking for More Relaxation and Less Action?
A former fishing village, Sanur was Bali’s first ever tourism resort area and it still remains a favourite spot for visitors from all over the world who keep on coming back to enjoy it’s unique combination of outstanding natural beauty and multitude of family-friendly activities.
In short, Sanur offers the best of both worlds: a safe, uncrowded and unspoilt coastal location that also retains it’s original culture and charm.
Reasons to visit
1. Safe Swimming
If you dream of a warm and safe swimming environment for all ages, protected from waves by a coral reef, Sanur really delivers. Sanur Beach is a long stretch of white sand that actually comprises of several beaches and unlike some other areas of Bali, the waters here are crystal clear and free of pollution.
2. Incredible Diving
Sanur doesn’t have much diving, there are only a couple of spots you get taken to when you are learning. However most of the dive centres are based here as it is the launch pad to all the amazing diving in the South and East of Bali and also in Nusa Penida and Lembongan. We recommend Nico Dives Cool.
3. Wonderful Water Sports
Moderate winds and warm protected crystal clear waters ensure Sanur is the perfect spot for a wide variety of water sports. Sailing, wake boarding, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding), kite surfing, windsurfing, jet skiing, paragliding, snorkelling and swimming a just a few of the water activities you might want to try in these beautiful calm waters. You can hire most of your equipment or take lessons from RIP Curl located on the beach near the Prawa Beach Hotel.
Surprisingly, surfers are catered for too, there are a variety of surf spots dotted along the coastline. You may need to use a boat to get out past the reef and catch some of those beautiful waves. If you’re looking for consistent surf you might want to check out Villa Mimpi in Legian.
4. Visit a Volcano
This is truly a once in a life-time experience. From Sanur you can book a guided tour and drive to Mt Batur where you trek to the top of the volcano to watch the sun rise over Sanur Beach.
5. White Water Rafting
Immerse yourself in nature on Bali’s’ longest and most scenic river raft route, which takes you through incredible scenery and a wild tropical jungle. This 16 km route along the Telaga Waja river includes 12 km of white water, 1 km of smooth sailing and then the raging rapids.
6. Come Fly a Kite
The annual International Bali Kite Festival is held in July and August, during the windy season.
Both international competitors and local villagers take part in this spectacular festival and for the Balinese it is a religious event, with the kites sending a message to the gods to bring abundance in crops and harvest.
From June through August, when the winds blow continually from east to west, local Balinese children and adults also fly kites in vacant rice paddies.
7. Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture
Sanur’s traditional culture is still visible in its everyday life and it also offers many museums and galleries. The long narrow seaside town is a delight to wander along as you explore the ancient Blanjong Temple and the other historical sites that line its streets. You can even enjoy a silver jewellery making class.
If you’d like to take a cooking class, book one of the many classes, they will pick you up and take you to their family compound for your cooking class, where you can learn about the traditional Balinese culture first hand… and enjoy a delicious meal!
8. Take an Underground Sea Walk
If you’re too scared to dive, can’t swim or don’t want to invest in the expense and time it takes to do your SCUBA certification, an underground sea walk allows you to interact with Bali’s amazing marine life.
An underground sea walk is also ideal if you wear prescription glasses, because your special helmet fits over the top, allowing you to safely and clearly experience the underwater beauty of Sanur.
9. Direct Beachfront Access
Unlike many other Bali resorts, Sanur offers direct beachfront access to a safe beach protected from waves by a coral reef.
If swimming isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the stunning location walking or jogging on the 10km beach path or watching the sun rise over the beach.
10. Perfect Location
Sanur is a world apart from the nightclubs, and the hustle and bustle of Kuta and yet the drive from the airport takes less than 30 minutes. If you do want to experience the other side of Bali, day trips are easy to arrange and a private driver will cost you approx $60 for the day.
Ubud is just 45 minutes away and Legian and Seminyak are both 40 minutes away.
Perhaps you just simply want to watch the sunrise, lie on the beach, enjoy a massage or float in your own private pool?
Whatever you decide to do in Sanur, you’ll find the people are calm and friendly, the beach and streets are safe and there are plenty of delicious restaurants to choose from.
Legian – West Coast
Shop (or Surf) till You Drop
Legian lies between two of Bali’s most famous beaches: Kuta and Seminyak. However, it’s calmer and less crowded than Kuta, and cheaper than Seminyak.
Reasons to visit
1. Sensational Surf
If you want to learn how to surf, Legian has some of the best surf breaks and surf schools in Bali. Legian’s waves are not as crowded as Kuta and they provide you with slightly better conditions for learning.
2. Stunning Sunsets
Whether you’re looking to up the romance factor, take that incredibly Instagrammable photo or simply immerse yourself in the sublime beauty of nature, watching the sun go down while sitting on Legian Beach is a once-in-a-lifetime totally unforgettable experience.
3. Wonderful Water Park
Looking for a fun-filled family day out?
Just a short taxi ride from Legian Beach, Waterbom Bali is Balis’ best water park with numerous waterslides, rides and games for all ages and level of water ability.
Waterbom park covers 3.8Ha of tropical gardens and pools, as well as a complete host of dining and leisure facilities and is located across the road from the Discovery Kartika Plaza and Discovery Shopping Mall.
4. Marvellous Markets
Cheaper than Seminyak shops, but without the hassling sellers of Kuta, Legian offers a wide variety of shopping experiences with a high street feel rather than the large shopping mall experience.
You can choose from beautiful handcrafted art souvenirs, cheap counterfeits, local and international surfwear and designer fashion brands as you stroll through the streets of Legian.
5. Dancing til Dawn
If you like to party, there’s certainly no shortage of places to choose from in and around Legian. Most restaurants and nightclubs stay open very late and offer affordable drinks.
Canggu – West Coast
What Makes Canggu so Effortlessly Cool?
Canggu is a popular vibrant coastal village on the West Coast of Bali. It’s teeming with an eclectic mix of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.
This trendy destination boasts stunning beaches perfect for surfing, two of the largest beach clubs and a thriving café scene that
attracts digital nomads and travelers alike. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Balinese spirituality, Canggu offers something for everyone
Reasons to visit
1. Surfing at Canggu Beach
Canggu is renowned for its consistent waves, making it a surfer’s paradise. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops to get you started.
2. Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple
This iconic temple is famous for its stunning sunsets. It’s a must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts and those looking to experience Balinese spirituality.
3. Cafe-hopping
Canggu is home to numerous trendy cafes and coffee shops. Don’t miss out on trying the local coffee and enjoying the vibrant cafe culture.
4. Shopping at Love Anchor Market
This popular open-air market is a treasure trove of local crafts, clothing, and unique souvenirs. It’s a great spot to pick up something special to remember your trip by.
5. Relax at a Spa
Canggu offers a variety of spas where you can indulge in massages, facials, and other wellness treatments using natural and organic products for ultimate relaxation.
6. Beach Clubs: Atlas and Finns
Canggu boasts some incredible beach clubs. Atlas Beach Club offers a luxurious experience with stunning ocean views, while Finns Beach Club is known for its lively atmosphere, great food and beachfront pools, dance your way from afternoon until late at night.
Jasri – East Coast
Want to discover the ‘real’ Bali?
If you’re looking to take the road less travelled, Jasri Beach offers you opportunity to enjoy Bali as it used to be.
Less than 2 hours drive from the city of Denpasar, yet miles away from the noisy nightclubs and hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist spots, Jasri beach is the ideal location to unwind, de-stress, and relax.
Reasons to vist
1. Space to Surf
It’s every surfer’s dream…
…set after set of consistently good, uncrowded waves
…no need to hire a boat to take you out beyond the reef
…no-one dropping in on your perfect wave
At Jasri Beach just can simply walk right out to an excellent left-hand break suitable for all levels of surfers…an uncrowded break that’s literally a short swim out from the shore.
Reef shoes are recommended as the black sand beach can be quite pebbly in parts.
2. Pristine white sand beach
If you’d prefer to just lie on a white sand beach where it’s easy to swim, Virgin Beach (also known as White Sand Beach) is a short 5 minute drive (there’s a small entry fee to park).
This stunning secluded kilometre-long stretch of pure white sand is well worth the short walk along a small track to access it.
On a clear day you might see Lombok and even Mount Rinjani.
If you eat or drink in the restaurants here then your chair and umbrella are free for the day.
Some restaurants also give you free snorkel rental and you can hire a boat for an hour if you’d like to explore the area more.
3. Stunning Water Palaces
Ujung Water Palace and Tirta Gangga Water Palace are a must-see destination for photographers or lovers of architecture and history.
Both of these water palaces were built by the late raja of Karangasem and they feature picturesque interconnecting large ponds and traditional Balinese and European architecture.
These water palaces are so incredibly beautiful many people choose to get married here.
4. Climb Mount Batur
Seeing the sun rise from one of the highest points in Bali is a once in a lifetime experience you’ll never forget!
5. Visit Candi Dasa
Located approximately 15 minute’s drive from Jasri Beach, Candi Dasa is an uncrowded former fishing village.
It’s a great place to take a dive trip and dinner at Vincents is a must. Look out for the monthly Jazz nights.
6. Drive and Dive at Amed
Amed is small town well known for incredible diving and snorkelling, just under an hour’s drive from Jasri village.
The fantastic drive is nearly as spectacular as the diving, so make sure you take the coast road back, because it’s steep and rocky and memorable.
Stop off at Sails restaurant. Great view and stunning view. The entrance to the snorkelling spot is just past here. You can hire masks and snorkels.
7. Explore the Liberty Wreck
Tulamben is the location of one of the most popular diving and snorkelling sites in Bali—the sunken wreck of the Liberty, a US Army Transport ship which was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1942.
As well as the fantastic diving and snorkeling over the Liberty wreck, you might get very lucky and see a whale shark.
Keramas – East Coast
Looking for a taste of ‘old Bali’ without the traffic and pollution?
So what’s so special about Keramas? And why does remain so unspoilt? Well, even though it boasts some of the best surf beaches in the world, Keramas is still firmly set in rural Bali and it remains relatively undiscovered, with hidden beaches and uncrowded surf breaks.
Keramas really gives you a sense of how Bali used to be. Locals still bathe in the river and fruit vendors line the highways offering exotic fruits, fresh from the tree… but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do here.
Reasons to visit
1. Superb Surf Break
Keramas is without a doubt one of the world’s best surf reef breaks, offering up perfect barrels and a consistent east coast swell. Tidally sensitive, this reef break breaks both ways (but is mainly right-handed) and has a swell range of anything between 2-12 foot. It’s best ridden in the early morning before the breeze picks up, and on the higher, incoming tide.
You can also enjoy a spot of night surfing here and watch the pros in action all year round, but especially during major sponsor title pro and grommet events such as Billabong and Oakley.
This really is a surf break for the more experienced short-boarder, and you’ll need to watch out for the current.
2. Long Beach Walks or Bareback Horseriding on Pristine Black Sand Beaches
Although both the sunrise and the moon rise are especially beautiful, Keramas Beach is simply stunning at any time of the day.
The pristine black sand beach contrasts with the aqua waters, and the entire scene is framed by lush rice paddy fields in the distance and stunning views of Mount Agung in the distance.
Horse riding is available for both beginners and experienced riders alike, including romantic bareback rides, group rides and fully guided lessons for children and first time riders.
3. Bali Safari & Marine Park and Bali Zoo
Just 10 minutes drive from Keramas Beach, the Bali Safari and Marine Park is home to over 60 species of animals, including rare and endangered species such as the Komodo, Orang Utan, and the Bali Mynah.
You can see the animals aboard the Safari Tram, ride an elephant with the Elephant Back Safari, get up close with animals at the Animal Encounter space, dine surrounded by wild animals, watch the spectacular shows of Bali Agung or Kecak Masterpiece at the state of the art Bali Theater or take the family to the Water Park and Fun Zone.
Bali Zoo is rated as one of the best zoos in the Asia Pacific region, with a strong emphasis on education and conservation. In addition to animal exhibits it offers a wide range of animal encounters and shows.
4. Enjoy the best of both worlds
You really can enjoy the best of both worlds when you holiday at Keramas. Although located in rural Bali, surrounded by rice fields and old villages and right on the glittering, black sand beachfront, all the tourist attractions, restaurants and nightlife you’ll ever need are located just a short drive away.
Keramas is just 15 minutes from the delightful Sanur with its quieter, older style of shopping, restaurants (some superb!) and nightlife, 50 minutes from the glitz of Seminyak and its shopping and restaurants, 40 minutes from the grittier, chaotic Kuta and just 20 minutes from gorgeous Ubud.
Komune beach club and restaurant is 7 minutes away.
If you’re looking for a little more action, a short drive away there’s waterfalls to swim in, whitewater rafting, canyoning, and bike tours.
Or, if you’re wanting to immerse yourself in the slower pace of Balinese life, you’re also spoilt for choice, with plenty of temples, tours, cooking schools and markets.
Seminyak – East Coast
The ultimate in beach, shopping and nightlife
On the east coast between Legian and Canggu, the original hang spot for the chic traveller.
Boutique shops, vast white sand beach and incredible restaurants and it’s own magazine.
Reasons to vist
1. Beautiful beach
Endless stretch of white sand lined with palm fringed, luxury hotels is Seminyak beach. Rent a sun-lounger and umbrella, have a massage, haggle with the local merchants, cool down with a refreshing coconut or watch the sunset with a cold beer.
2. Surfing for all levels
Grab a surfing lessons with Rip Curl or catch the consistent right handers. For the non surfers grab a bogie board or just body surf on the super fun waves. Just beware of the rip tides.
3. Boutique shopping
Stroll along Jl Raya Seminyak to find a fabulous selection of boutique shops, from clothes, shoes and bags, to homewares and home decoration.
With the owners and designers from around the world you’ll find a spectacular selection of style, design and tastes.
4. Delicious dining
Dining from around the world in just one street!
Sample the delights of renowned restaurants Metis, Sardine, Sarong, Mamasan, Ku-De-Ta, Ginger Moon, La Lucciola and Merah Putih to start with.
Or just pull up at a local warung to enjoy a nasi goreng.
5. Seasonal parties & Sundowners
Book your holiday to coincide with a live music at Potato Head or the legendary white party at Ku-De-Ta or just soak up the sunset ambiance with DJ’s and cocktails each evening
6. Pampertastic
Be perfectly pampered at one of the spas, whether its a massage, facial, pedicure or the full works you’ll find a spa for every budget. Jari Menari (Dancing Fingers) comes highly recommended.
7. From Dusk til Dawn
Watch the world go by from the Red Carpet Champagne Bar then dance the night away at La Favella, Mexicola or Jenja.