Seminyak is one of the trendier places in Bali. The area is just above Kuta, but the atmosphere here is much more carefree, even with the lively beach clubs entertaining from the early morning to the late afternoon.
Apart from the fact that you can have fun at the many beach clubs that Seminyak has to offer, you can also shop, go horseback riding, and enjoy some of the many spa and wellness amenities.
In Seminyak, you can savor a calm day at the spa, party at one of the clubs, or enjoy shopping in the markets — but for cultural highlights, you better look to other places in Bali.
So if you want to drink a cocktail on a bean bag, then you’ve come to the right place. Here are some of our favorite activities:
Best Thing For Entertainment – A Day On The Beach & Bars
Today is your day to relax on a bean bag for a day and enjoy a tropical mixed drink — and Seminyak is known for its hip beach bars, which are ideal for this.
Most trendy beach bars can be found on Seminyak Beach, but you can also visit Double Six Beach for more options. Another idea is to visit Batu Belig Beach, which is a bit smaller and quieter.
Potato Head – A Favorite In Seminyak
A crowd favorite from this area is Potato Head, one of the most famous and popular beach clubs in Bali. The unique exterior of this club is recognizable from quite a distance, while inside, a lovely swimming pool, fancy sunbeds, and good music are the main attractions of Potato Head. Pricing is relatively modest, but if you’re on a backpacker’s budget, then it might be a bit hard on your wallet to spend an afternoon here. Especially if you order a tasty cocktail — you can never have just one, here.
Aside from the bars along the beach, you can also step into the ocean and spend a day in the water.
The waves here offer some wonderful surfing opportunities, although the surf can be a bit inconsistent. Regardless of swell or still waves, this area is still a great place to simply swim and enjoy a day splashing in the water.
If you prefer, you can also rent a sun lounger and just soak up the atmosphere. On top of this, there is a myriad of stalls that will happily sell you an ice-cold beer or a soft drink as the perfect complement to the spectacular Balinese sunsets.
Best For Families – Horseback Riding
One of the most popular activities to enjoy on Seminyak Beach is horseback riding.
Horseback rides along the beach usually take two hours to complete and you can travel along the beach from Seminyak to Canggu.
Each rider is assigned a horse, with professional guides to lead you along the sand to ensure you enjoy the ocean view safely and serenely.
This is also a great choice for those traveling with family, as children are welcome, plus there are a variety of ponies to choose from.
Best For Culture – Pura Petitenget
One of the most popular attractions in Seminyak is Pura Petitenget, one of the six major sea temples in Bali.
The sea temples along the coast were built by Balinese Hindus, who believed the powers of the temple warded off angry seas and natural disasters. Pura Petitenget, among the other centuries-old temples in Bali, is located on the Bukit peninsula and extends to another notable sea temple, named Pura Tanah Lot, in the west of the island.
Although Seminyak does not offer as rich of a cultural experience as the rest of Bali, the Pura Petitenget certainly a site worth visiting if you’re in the area, as you’ll enjoy a nice pause from the entertainment and liveliness of the rest of Seminyak.
Best For Souvenirs – Shopping In Town
If you like shopping you are in the right place in Seminyak.
Well-known global brands can be found here, but you can also discover small boutiques with clothing that you won’t find at home. There are several long streets filled with nice shops and you can definitely plan a day for shopping in Seminyak.
In addition to shopping for clothing, you can of course also stock up on the necessary souvenirs. Seminyak is also known for its art shops. If you want to buy some Balinese paintings or other art, you’ll be glad you’re in Seminyak.
Best For Adrenaline Junkies – Bungee Jumping
For the brave of heart, Seminyak also offers bungee jumping on the beach.
Jumping with an elastic cord on your ankle is a popular activity in the coastal town. Tourists can test their courage here and take the plunge. Just note that you are not allowed to jump if you are pregnant, or if you have high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease, among other medical issues.
The bungee jumping tower in Seminyak is over 140 feet high. And for extra safety, under the tower lies a swimming pool about 12 feet deep.
If you first lack the necessary confidence to take on this challenge, you can certainly find it at the pool bar. And for those of you worried about exhausting yourself on a hike up a 140-foot tower, don’t you worry: there’s an elevator to do that for you.
Best For Everyone – Buddha Gallery
If you’re looking for a quirky experience, then go to the Buddha Gallery in Seminyak.
It is located on one of the busiest streets in the town, and inside, you will find a massive amount of antique buddhas.
The collection consists of images, statues, utensils, and other relics. If you have an idea for any object that can be morphed into a Buddha, this place will have it.
These items come from many different countries, such as Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Japan, and China. Some common Buddha gifts inside the store include wooden sculptures, bronze bells, or gold-plated boxes.
Metal statues are also for sale here, and if you find a massive one that doesn’t quite fit in your luggage, have no fear, the staff will arrange for it to be mailed to your home.
Final Thoughts
Seminyak is a beach town on the southwest coast of Bali. The coastal town is located just north of Kuta and Legian.
Where once these small towns in Bali were separate places, nowadays, they have all grown together.
Apart from this, Seminyak still offers a unique experience, separate from its sister towns. The location of Seminyak in Bali means that you can enjoy a setting sun that slowly descends into the sea every evening. And because Seminyak is located directly on the coast, it is warmer than inland places, like Ubud and Munduk.
If you’re looking for interesting places to stay in Bali, be sure to check out some of our recommendations and top places to stay in Bali.
In the end, Seminyak is a beautiful place that can offer excellent entertainment, at an albeit more touristy feel of Bali. Skip this part of Bali if you’re looking for only rich cultural excursions, but if you’re hoping to enjoy a lively scene, beautiful beaches, and fun attractions, then Seminyak is right for you.
