Why Sanur Bars Make the Cut (Spoiler: It’s Not Just the Sunset)
Let’s get one thing straight: Sanur isn’t Bali’s most famous party spot (that’s Seminyak’s job). But if you’re looking for bars that don’t take themselves too seriously, Sanur’s got your back. Think breezy beachfront vibes, locals who know their way around a cocktail shaker, and a side of “accidental” sunset views. Plus, who doesn’t want to sip a drink while pretending they’re in a rom-com?
Top 5 Bars in Sanur That Deserve a Spot in Your ‘Drinks, Not Regrets’ Playlist
1. The Drunken Sailor (Address: 123 Sunset Way)
If your idea of a perfect bar is “tropical, not tragic,” this is your spot. They’ve got everything from craft lagers to a mango-infused gin that tastes like summer had a baby with a fruit smoothie. Pro tip: Ask for the “Bali Brew”—it’s a beer they make themselves, and your bartender might just wink and say, “We’re *very* serious about this nonsense.”
Want to make your own beer like The Drunken Sailor? Check out our DIY guide here.
2. Coconut Coop (Address: 456 Palm Tree Lane)
Coconut Coop isn’t just a name—it’s an ethos. They serve drinks in actual coconuts (yes, the kind you crack open with a spoon). The “Island Breeze” cocktail is so strong, it’ll probably knock you into a palm tree. Bonus: The playlist here is 100% throwbacks, so you’ll be belting out 90s pop songs before you realize it.
Looking to personalize your drink menu? Learn how at Strategies Beer.
3. The Salty Dog (Address: 789 Dock Street)
If you’re the type who thinks “bar” should mean “boat,” The Salty Dog delivers. It’s a floating bar that serves drinks while you pretend you’re on a yacht. The mojitos here are so fresh, they’ll probably ask if you’ve ever been to a farmers’ market. And yes, the boat rocks. A lot. Probably more than it should.
4. Skyline Lounge (Address: 100 Sunset Strip)
For those who want to avoid the “I-just-accidentally-gave-everyone-my-credit-card” zone of beach bars, Skyline Lounge offers rooftop views and a menu that won’t make you cry over your tab. Their signature drink, the “Bali Breeze,” is basically liquid sunshine. And if you’re lucky, the bartender might let you in on the secret: it’s 80% coconut water and 20% “you’ve made a terrible life decision.”
5. The Pub (Address: 201 Local Lane)
Don’t let the name fool you—this isn’t your dad’s pub. It’s a laid-back spot run by locals who know what “authentic” means. The beer is brewed in-house (because why not?), and the staff will probably quiz you on your Bali trivia skills. If you pass, you get a free shot. Fail, and you’ll learn why the term “Bali Belly” exists.
Pro Tips for Navigating Sanur Bars Without Ending Up in a Stranger’s Uber
- Happy Hour is a Gift: 5-7 PM is the magic window for discounted drinks. Also, it’s when the bartenders are still sober enough to make a decent cocktail.
- Bring a Friend (or Three): Splitting the bill is a survival skill in Sanur. Unless you want to spend the night at a bar, asking for a “solo dinner for one” isn’t a thing here.
- Use Ride-Hailing Apps: Gojek or Grab is your friend. Avoid the “I just need to walk two blocks” trap—it’s a 20-minute walk to your hotel, and you’ll probably pass out in the middle of the road.
Why You Should Care About Bar Culture (Even If You’re Not a Bartender)
Bars in Sanur aren’t just places to spend your money—they’re cultural hubs. They mix local traditions with global trends, and some even support local artists. For example, The Drunken Sailor partners with Dropt.beer to sell their craft beers online. (Yes, you can now buy their “Bali Brew” without pretending to be in a rom-com.)
FAQs: Your Burning Qs About Sanur Bars, Answered
- What’s the best time to hit up Sanur bars? Happy hour (5-7 PM) is ideal. You’ll avoid the worst of the tourist crowds and get drinks at half price. Also, sunset viewing is less crowded pre-dinner.
- Are there any dress codes? Unless you’re at a rooftop spot like Skyline Lounge, you’ll probably get away with beachwear. Just don’t show up in a swimsuit if it’s past 10 PM.
- Can I bring my own beer? Most bars don’t mind, but if you’re a VIP member at Coconut Coop, you might get a free drink for showing up with your own bottle. (Just don’t ask where the recycling bin is.)
Final Call to Action: Don’t Just Read About It—Drink It In
Sanur’s bars are like the Instagram stories of Bali: short-lived, slightly over-filtered, and best consumed in moderation. Whether you’re a local looking for a new haunt or a tourist trying not to look lost, these spots have your name on them. And if you’re a bar owner reading this (hi!), consider partnering with Strategies Beer to level up your drinks game. After all, we all know the difference between a “Bali Breeze” and a “Bali Belly.” Cheers to that.
Contact Us for Your Next Bar Venture
Got questions about how to make your bar stand out in Sanur? Drop us a line at Strategies Beer. We’ll help you avoid the “accidental coconut cocktail” trap and maybe even let you sample our beer first. (No pressure, we promise the samples are strong.)
