Should I stay Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, or Legian?

Making the Right Decision

Here is one of the trickiest questions that may arise when you go to Bali: Should I stay in Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, or Legian? These are some of the most popular tourist destinations in the island.

If you have a longer traveling time, you may be able to explore all these regions, so this question won’t bother you too much. However, if you only have a shorter period of time, you need to make a quick decision.

Each of these areas has their own special appeal and charm. It basically depends on your personal preference, really, and what you want to gain from your trip.

It would be helpful if you know the basic facts of the island so it helps you to make an educated decision about the whole trip.

Bali’s Geography

Bali isn’t an overly big island

Bali isn’t an overly big island but each region is packed with attractive and naturally appealing spots. No wonder if people are wondering (and often being overwhelmed) with the question, “Should I stay Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, or Legian?”

You see, Bali is basically divided into six main areas of Central Bali, South Bali, North Bali, West Bali, East Bali, and Southeastern islands (the 3 Nusa islands: Ceningan, Lembongan, and Penida).

map of bali

South Bali is the home to many of the popular spots like Nusa Dua, Seminyak, Uluwatu, Tanah lot, Denpasar, Kuta, Jimbaran, Sanur, Canggu, and Legian. Gianyar and Ubud are located in Central Bali while Padang Bai, Besakit, Mount Agung is located on East Bali.

As you can see, the tourism sector in Bali is focused on the South and Central Bali, as well as the Southeastern islands. Many tourists would flock to Kuta, the home of beaches and resorts and also the most popular attraction centers.

If you want to stay in a place with lots of entertainment centers (like shopping malls, shops, cinema, etc) and you are into the hustle and bustle (as well as the crowds), then Kuta would be your best options.

If you are into arts and you want to learn more about Bali’s culture and arts, then you should head to Ubud. It is the home to many artisans in Bali. Thanks to its mountainous area, Ubud is also home to some of the greatest coffee farms.

If you are coffee lover, then Ubud would be your ideal place. Be mind you, though, that Ubud isn’t as crowded as Kuta. But if you are into quiet surrounding, it would be your perfect holiday haven.

stay in sanur bali

Making the Decision

When you want to decide about should I stay Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, or Legian,

it actually depends on yourself. If you are going with your family and you want to find an ideal vacation for the whole family, then you need to find the right one.

Are you always thrilled by the constant partying at night and non-stop sunbathing or swimming by the beach every day?

Are you looking for a spiritual enlightment during your journey?

Are you an adventurous surfer wanting to have a challenge with the wild waves?

You can find all of these in Bali – only in different areas, though. That’s why knowing the characteristic of each region will help you so much.

Legian and Kuta

This is one of the most popular spots in Bali, and yet also the most flexible.

stay in legian kuta

A lot of budget travelers come to this region to enjoy a laid-back holiday – and they do get it. The region is packed with countless entertainment, dining, and accommodation options.

The long Kuta beach is charming in its own sense – and the beach is also endless. The waves are relatively mild and friendly, making it ideal for beginner surfers to have it a go.

The activities in Kuta as well as Legian are focused on shopping and also nightlife. Expect to find shopping malls and clubs.

If you are looking for a quick trip on weekends or you are young backpacker travelers without too many budgets to spare, then Kuta or Legian would be the best ideal spot. Legian is just the same as Kuta.

The spot may not be perfect for couples who are looking for romantic gateway or for those who want to find peaceful retreat alone. Well, if you are couples who are into crowds and busy-body, then Kuta and Legian would be the perfect option.

What can you do in Kuta or Legian? You can relax on the beach. You can also learn to surf – or simply soak yourself in the calm wave. You can take part in the cultural show – Kuta Theater has it. You can enjoy the nightlife and the endless partying.

You can go to the Waterboom – this is especially ideal if you are traveling with kids or families. If you have tons of shopping budgets, then enjoy a shopping spree.

Seminyak

It isn’t far from Legian or Kuta, and yet it feels as if you were in a different part of the area.

stay in seminyak

The unique Balinese atmosphere is stronger here and there is also an exclusive vibe to the area. The place is packed with beachside clubs, bars, world class restaurants, and also boutique shops.

The place is also home to exclusive spas and beautiful hotels. Is it an ideal place for couples? Definitely. It is not too quiet but it is definitely not as crowded as Kuta or Legian.

What to do in Seminyak, anyway? You can spend the whole night dancing or enjoying the night atmosphere at rooftop nightclubs or lounges. You can drink and eat while soaking in the relaxed vibe.

Feel free to visit the cultural landmark, the Petitenget Temple. Go to Kody & Ko or Nyaman Gallery for the eclectic home decor and art. Visit Dream Museum Zone and taking fun pictures. Enjoy the live music while dining the heavenly foods.

Explore the designer boutique shops, if you have the budgets. If you are traveling with families, go to Frankenstein’s Laboratory where you can view the show and enjoy the dinner.

Sanur

If you are traveling with families or you simply enjoy the adventurous trip,

stay in sanur

then Sanur would be the best option. Sanur is located opposite to Kuta, and the area is designed for adventurous travelers. The beach, for instance, stretches 5 kilometers away.

If you want to take a stroll, you can do it. The area is packed with souvenir craft shops as well as other (Balinese) specialties, like batik. Sanur’s coastline is surrounded by the unique outlying reef. As a result, the water looks like the salt-water pool.

Is it safe for kids to play there? Definitely! The wave is mild and gentle, and the current won’t be as big as other areas. Finding water activities is relatively easy here, so everyone can enjoy kayaking, kite surfing, and others. Swimming and sunbathing are very common in this area.

You can also feel the stronger Balinese culture in this area. Don’t be surprised to see a ceremony through the beach or the street. What can you do there? Go to the beaches (like Cemara, Sanur, or Sindhu) and relax.

Fly a kite – it is super fun! You can also go to Gallery Santrian, an art gallery with open-air concept. Feel a bit adventurous?

How about swimming with sharks at Serangan Shark Project?

You can also go to Serangan Island to interact with the sea turtles. Basically, if you enjoy adventurous activities, Sanur would be the perfect spot.

In the end, the decision is up to you. By knowing these facts, now you shouldn’t have any question about should I stay Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, or Legian anymore.

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