Sanur Beach

Tourists flock to Bali in their droves to experience its beaches. The problem with this is that coastal resorts often become overrun, making it difficult to relax. This is not the case with Sanur Beach. Though it's only 15 kilometres from the buzzing Kuta Beach, Sanur exudes a relaxed, tranquil quality. If you're a couple or family looking for quiet beach time, Sanur should go straight to the top of your list.

Stroll along Sanur's promenade and admire the vibrantly painted outrigger boats that line it. Gaze out over the perfectly blue water and squint to make out Mount Agung. Lay a towel out on the sand and soak up the peaceful vibe. Treat yourself to a massage on one of the divans that dot the beach. Take a swim in the calm waters (protected by a reef), or sign up for canoeing, or windsurfing.

Those who like to see the world beneath the surface won't be disappointed. Sanur's shoreline is excellent for snorkelling or scuba diving. Both Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are superb diving areas, and there are plenty of teachers on hand if the experience is new to you.

Wander into Sanur village and dive into a seafood lunch at one of the eateries. The quiet nature of the beach pervades the village too, although the locals are usually happy to chat casually with tourists. Discover culture at the Le Mayeur Museum, one time residence of Belgian painter Adrien Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres. If, like Le Mayeur de Merpres, you've fallen in love with Sanur, stay the night at one of its hotel resorts, such as Medina or Bali Hyatt. The Sanur Beach Hotel, located as close to the sea as is safely possible, is arguably Sanur's most coveted accommodation. Relax by the pool with a cocktail and take a stroll in its seven hectares of tropical gardens.

Sanur Beach is a 20-minute drive from Denpasar, and 30 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport.