By Expedia Local Expert, on August 8, 2017

Sand, sun and surf in Seminyak

Sandwiched between the non-stop nightlife of Kuta to the south and the organic cafes in Canggu to the north, Seminyak is a quiet retreat along Bali’s west coast. It’s the place to go for indulgent spa treatments and boutique shopping, but that doesn’t mean its beaches are anything to skip over. Leave your Bali accommodation and pop into beachfront bars for sundowners, take a surfing lesson to catch the sets off Legian Beach, or just grab a sun chair to spend your afternoons watching the waves roll in.

Bleach Club Bliss

Being on Bali’s west side means you’re treated to postcard-perfect sunsets every night. Find the ideal spot to soak up the day’s last few golden rays at one of Seminyak’s beloved beach clubs. Swim up to the pool bar at Potato Head Beach Club, dine on Italian fare while watching for the green flash at La Lucciola, or join the party at Seminyak’s original club, Ku De Ta.

Big Waves

Seminyak proper isn’t known for its big breaks, but it lies at the heart of a host of phenomenal surf spots. Team up with the pros at Rip Curl School of Surf to find the day’s best waves nearby, get tips on reading the area’s conditions, and hone your skills during a private lesson. Bring along your own gear if you want, or travel light and let your instructor set you up with a quality board, rashguard, and shorts.

If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key but still active, grab a paddle and tackle the surf on a stand-up paddleboard to work on your core, try a few yoga poses, and keep your eyes peeled for marine life.

Grab the Reins

Saba Bay feels like a slice of old Bali. Time slows down on black sand beaches framed by lush green mountains, in charming fishing villages dotted with centuries-old temples, and on distant islands rimmed by dramatic cliffs. With convenient pickup from Seminyak, you can explore it all by horseback with True Bali Experience, whose guides help you get set up on your steed, go over basic riding tips, and then lead you on a leisurely ride through the lapping surf of Saba Bay’s beaches.

Flyboard Flyover

When days of lounging on the sand start to make you feel a little lethargic, keep in mind there are plenty of things to do in Seminyak and beyond that are sure add some adrenaline to your trip. Supercharge your day at the beach by strapping into the jet-ski powered deck of a flyboard with baliKU Tours & Travel. With two jets of water blasting out from under your feet, you can dip, dive, swirl, fly, and flip through the calm waters of Tanjung Benoa.

Where to stay

If you’re into the beach club scene, but still want to be able to bliss out, check into one of the Expedia +VIP Access hotels. Whether you prefer to relax away the day in a modern, minimalist setting or treat yourself to a tropical hideaway, you’ll find world-class spas, gorgeous pools, and prime beachfront locations near the district’s top dining and entertainment hot spots.

Alila Seminyak

Alila Seminyak is a dream of simplistic design and natural details. Sunlight floods each suite through floor-to-ceiling windows, and clean lines make the already spacious rooms feel extra open. Enjoy in-suite entertainment and complimentary breakfast at one of the resort restaurants. Later, treat yourself to a spa experience, like the signature Half Day Escape, which includes refreshments and massages, wraps, facials, and more. Of course, you won’t spend all your time at the resort when there’s a coastline right outside! Sidle up to the Beach Bar while you relax on the sand.

Amadea Resort & Villas

When you stay at Amadea Resort & Villas, the best of Bali is within easy reach. Walk along the waterfront, taste your way through Eat Street, and wander around Seminyak Square and beyond. Amadea guests enjoy free parking, so renting a car for exploring the island is a must. Back at the resort, order a massage in your own suite or spend some quality time in the full-service spa. The After Sun Skin Care Indulgence treatment is perfect after a day on the waves—your skin will soak up the aloe like a cool drink! Speaking of drinks, the hotel’s poolside bar is the ultimate place to spend a sunny afternoon.

The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa

Then there’s The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa, which has something for every traveler, including a view to suit specific tastes. Book a suite looking over the garden or snatch up an oceanfront room. Wake up to these lovely sights and a complimentary gourmet breakfast to start each morning right. Hardwood floors and plush linens are both elegant and cozy—perfect for making you feel right at home. Relax on a secluded private balcony or book a soothing spa treatment. When you want a night out, attend one of the resort’s traditional Balinese events and experience regional dances and flavors—the recipe for a perfect evening.

With so many beachy things to do in Bali, there’s a sandy escape near Seminyak sure to please every traveler. Which sun-soaked adventure will you seek out first?