Sanur Rejects Proposed Beach Club, Prioritizes Wellness Tourism

This week, Indonesia’s Minister for Tourism and Creative Economies visited Bali to discuss the future of the island's tourism industry. The discussions included concerns surrounding a proposed beach club in Sanur’s new Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which is being developed as a hub for medical and wellness tourism.

Sanur, one of Bali’s oldest tourist hotspots, has seen substantial investment over the past few years to develop the Sanur SEZ for Medical Tourism and Wellness. This includes the ongoing construction of the Bali International Hospital, slated to open by the end of 2024, major upgrades to the iconic hotel now rebranded as The Meru, and the creation of a new shopping and entertainment complex.

Speculation has been mounting about the possible establishment of a large beach club in central Sanur. Known for its peaceful and laid-back vibe, Sanur stands in contrast to busier areas like Seminyak and Canggu. While the area does have restaurants and bars that stay open late, it lacks the large-scale beach clubs seen in places like Canggu and Uluwatu. Many locals and visitors have voiced concerns that such a development could alter Sanur’s cherished calm and relaxed atmosphere.

Official Response

The Mayor of Denpasar recently confirmed that the proposed beach club project in Sanur has been rejected. Other local leaders have also expressed concerns about how the development could affect Sanur’s tranquil environment and the potential strain on local traffic and infrastructure.

On July 7th, Indonesia’s Minister for Tourism and Creative Economies, Sandiaga Uno, officially stated that the beach club project would not be moving forward, as it did not receive the required licenses or permits. He stressed that all future developments in Sanur should align with the SEZ's focus on promoting fitness, health, and wellness tourism.

Minister Uno shared that a recent meeting with 25 investors revealed strong interest in the health tourism sector within the Sanur SEZ. He expressed optimism that international investment would enhance Sanur’s emerging medical and wellness tourism zone. In addition to the Bali International Hospital, other private medical facilities, including clinics offering cosmetic surgery, stem cell treatments, fertility services, diabetes care, geriatric care, and dental services, are expected to be established in Sanur.

Addressing the beach club issue, Minister Uno confirmed that the project has been scrapped after consultations with relevant authorities. He reiterated the government’s commitment to wellness tourism in Sanur, confirming that a beach club is not part of the area’s development plans.

Minister Uno also commented that while beach clubs are popular in other parts of Bali, Sanur is not the right location for such a venture at this time. He encouraged more community involvement in future development projects, pointing to the success of venues like Potato Head Village, where a beach club was transformed into a community-focused space. He emphasized the importance of innovation and adaptability in offering tourists unique and high-quality experiences.

Alternatives for Nightlife Enthusiasts

For those in search of vibrant nightlife, Canggu and Seminyak are the go-to areas. These locales are famous for their energetic bars, beach clubs, and nightclubs that remain lively late into the night, offering a stark contrast to Sanur’s quieter ambiance.

Consider visiting one of Canggu's top tattoo studios to add a unique touch to your night out. These studios are renowned for their skilled artists, who create incredible designs to commemorate your Bali adventure. Whether you’re after a subtle, meaningful piece or a bold statement tattoo, Canggu’s tattoo shops offer a wide variety of options to conclude your night in style.