Mertasari Beach marks the southern end of Sanur’s long shoreline, where the town-centre crowds give way to open lawns, steady sea breezes and a slower pace. The sand runs wide, and the grassy areas set back from the water leave families, groups and kite-surfers plenty of room. For a sunset drink by the sea, it is one of the better spots on Bali’s south-east coast.
A calmer stretch of coast
While central Sanur draws sunrise walkers and early swimmers, Mertasari stays quiet for much of the day. The reef offshore keeps the water gentle, so the shallows are safe for a paddle and easy for children. Palms and casuarina trees line the back of the beach and throw shade through the warmer hours. Everything runs at a slower pace here, which is much of the appeal for anyone escaping the busier resort areas to the south.
Kite-surfing and watersports
By mid to late afternoon the wind strengthens and the sky fills with kites. Mertasari has become one of Sanur’s main spots for kite-surfing, and a handful of operators run lessons and hire out gear along the sand. Even from a sunbed, that colour against the sea makes a fine backdrop to the end of the day. Beginners should book with an established school and check conditions, as the wind and reef flat both demand care.
Sunset and beach bars
A cluster of relaxed bars and warungs sits close to the water, serving cold drinks, grilled seafood and simple local dishes. As the light fades, tables fill with people settling in for the sunset, and the mood is easy rather than loud. Prices are reasonable, and paying in cash is the norm at the smaller stalls. It is a natural place to slow down after an active afternoon on the sand or in the shallows.
How to visit
Mertasari lies at the far south of the beachfront, roughly ten minutes by scooter, Grab or Gojek from the town centre. A rewarding way to arrive is on foot or by bicycle along the Sanur Beach Walk, which runs the length of the coast to reach this quieter end. For transport advice, where to stay and other nearby sights, see the Sanur destination guide, and check the Sanur things to do page to plan the rest of your day.
