Sanur is traditionally a fishing village and has managed to keep that lazy-town feeling. This really makes Sanur a unique area and unlike most other beach areas in Bali, Sanur has stayed largely in local hands. The main street is lined with a mix of quaint little shops selling Bali knick-knacks and the trendy label clothing shops, slow paced restaurants that have a real Balinese atmosphere and various types of accommodation.
Sanur beach is sheltered by a reef which is surfable when there's a good swell and there is also the chance for a bit of a snorkel. During low tide, it's really too shallow to swim but it's still quite beautiful with an abundance of coconut palms, gold sand and a great paved walking track running along the beach. High tide turns the beach into a fun place of water sports and swimming.
Sanur is a good place for families who are looking for a safe beach for the kids to swim at and for couples that want to get away from the crowds but don't want to be isolated.