Bali off the Beaten Path: Exploring Sanur, Candidasa and Sidemen - with Kids!
Ever dreamt of getting to know Bali beyond the usual tourist spots?
In this article, I’ll share how to break free from the typical tourist trail and explore the lesser-known wonders of Bali with kids, providing an authentic experience that will have you wondering why you didn’t do it sooner.
From must-visit attractions to where to indulge in the finest local cuisine, I've got your Bali-off-the-beaten-path adventure covered - including proposed itineraries, how to get there, and travel times.
SANUR:
Sanur is the ideal starting point for your Bali off-the-beaten-path adventure. While not entirely undiscovered, Sanur attracts significantly lower tourist numbers than other areas of Bali, providing a more tranquil introduction to island life.
Its proximity to the airport adds a layer of convenience and allows you to seamlessly acclimatize the kids for a few days, as well as stock up on supplies, snacks, and cash before heading up the coast towards Candidasa.
Sanur
SANUR ACCOMMODATION:
While many parents rave about Prama Sanur Beach Resort, we personally find it run-down, and our current mid-range hotel choice in Sanur is Sagara Villas and Suites. We've stayed in both the villas and rooms and think they're great.
Check out independent reviews of Sagara Villas & Suites here.
ADDITIONAL BUDGET, MID-RANGE & LUX OPTIONS IN SANUR:
If you're on a budget, we recommend Asoka Sanur and Bumi Ayu. For mid-range options, check out Parigata Resort and Spa, The Mercure, or Artotel (though the latter is better suited for couples or older children). Or, if you're looking for something more luxurious, consider the Hyatt or Tandjung Sari.
Check out independent traveler reviews for each of these properties (including Sagara) HERE:
CANDIDASA:
Nestled along Bali's East Coast, Candidasa stands in stark contrast to the bustling development of South Bali, offering a glimpse into the island's past, reminiscent of decades gone by.
With local fishermen casting their lines off the stunning white sand beaches and water lilies blooming nearby, Candidasa reveals a tranquil scene where it's not uncommon to see chickens and monkeys strolling along the roadside.
The absence of busy resorts and Western-style restaurants creates a space for your mind to truly relax, and Candidasa is a great place for kids to take a break from technology and overstimulation, swapping iPads and kids' clubs for soccer balls on expansive grassy lawns!
For a luxury stay in Candidasa check out Candi Beach Resort & Spa (pictured top) or Sagara Candidasa (pictured bottom).
CANDIDASA TIPS:
Taxis can be hard to come by in Candidasa, and GoJek services (Bali's equivalent of Uber Eats) are not available. To broaden your dining options beyond your accommodation (or those within walking distance), consider exploring on a scooter if you have an Aussie license, or taking advantage of the pick-up and drop-off services offered by many local restaurants.
Also, don’t miss the breathtaking views of water lilies overlooking the beach each morning from Guungan Hill and Lotus Lagoon. OR for an adventure beyond poolside relaxation, games of Uno, and beach cricket, embark on a half-day trip to Tirta Gangga and Ujung Water Palace.
Kids love feeding the Koi fish and playing 'the floor is lava' at Tirta Gangga'. Plus, after you've finished at these two attractions you can then conclude your morning exploration with a late lunch at Bali Asli.
Here you'll get stunning panoramic views of Mount Agung accompanied by an authentic Indonesian spread.
KID FRIENDLY CANDIDASA ACCOMMODATION:
We love Candi Beach Resort & Spa and Sagara Candidasa. You can check out their reviews here and here.
SIDEMEN:
If you’re drawn to Ubud (but wish it was less busy) and love hotel rooms with scenic views of rice fields and netting draped over the bed, Sidemen will be right up your alley.
A sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, with its rice fields, rivers, and waterfalls, Sidemen has that authentic village charm. You’ll see many locals still plowing paddocks with cows, residing in mud brick huts, and boiling water over open fires.
While here, you can attend a cooking school, try your hand at batik painting and jewelry making, take a guided tour among the rice fields, or visit one of the many waterfalls in close proximity.
And after a busy day of exploring, you can indulge in many plant-based delights while staring up at the stars, unobstructed by streetlights, and listen to the distant echoes of crickets and frogs.
SIDEMEN TIPS:
Sidemen hotels are happy to arrange tours or provide a local guide if you don't have your own driver or aren't licensed to drive a scooter. Just be sure to leave your passport at the hotel – you don’t want it getting wet in the waterfalls!
Avoid walking the rice fields or crossing the rivers that lay at the back of the main hotel area by yourself, as you may get lost, and the river current is quite strong.
Eat early and make bookings (even within your hotel/guesthouse) as most places stop serving shortly after dinner.
SIDEMEN ACCOMODATION:
Our favorite place to stay in Sidemen with kids is Cepik Villas Sidemen. You can view independent reviews of Cepik Villas here.
We have stayed in the Sunrise & standard room at Cepik. Both are exceptional value for money! Highly rate this accommodation! You can book it here!
BALI TRAVEL TIMES:
Denpasar to Sanur: 40 mins: best to travel by taxi or hire a private driver.
Sanur to Candidasa: 1.5 hours: Best to travel by scooter or hire a private driver.
Candidasa to Tirta Gangga and Ujung Water Palace: 35 minutes: Best to travel by scooter, hire a private driver, or book a tour.
Candidasa to Sidemen: 1 hour: Best to travel by scooter or hire a private driver.
Sidemen to Sanur: 1.5-2 hours: Best to travel by scooter or hire a private driver.
Sanur to Denpasar Airport: 40 mins – Best to travel by taxi or private driver.
THE BEST WAY TO EXPLORE SANUR, CANDIDASA & SIDEMEN:
Exploring Sanur: Best to explore on foot, or use the local bemo van, or taxi if you need to go from one end to the other and little legs are tired.
Exploring Candidasa: Best to explore on foot or leverage the local pick-up/drop-off service that many restaurants offer. Alternatively, you could scoot if you are licensed.
Exploring Sidemen: Book accommodation with a restaurant attached, and leverage a personal driver or tour arranged through the hotel or Klook.
SUGGESTED TRAVEL ITINERARY:
Sanur: 3 days
Candidasa: 2-3 days
Sidemen: 3 days
Sanur: 2-3 days
WHERE TO EAT:
Massimo’s
Jepun
Shotgun Social
Amphibia Warung
Lilla Pantai
Sanur Night Market
Villa Cepik
Sleeping Gajah
Asri Dining
Joglo D’uma
WANT TO EXTEND YOUR STAY? EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS FURTHER? DISCOVER MORE BALI HIDDEN GEMS?
Consider adding Munduk to your Bali family holiday itinerary. I always appreciate that the climate is cooler here (cool enough for red wine and a fire) and my boys love driving buggies through muddy terrain with Munduk Wilderness Tours.
Written by Kirstin – Travel Writer & Founder of My Big Adventure Kids Travel Diaries - Travel Diaries that teach kids about their holiday destination! You can check out the Bali edition here!
