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Written by Finn
Sanur has always been on Bali’s quieter side, with calmer water, unhurried streets and some of the island’s best sunrises. It was only missing a resort worthy of the setting. That changed in 2024 with the opening of The Meru Sanur. This all-suite beachfront property has already collected acclaim – it was named Tatler Best New Hotel (Indonesia) 2026 and has claimed a spot on Savour BlackBookAsia’s 100 Best Hotels in the World 2025. Here’s why it deserves a place on your Bali shortlist.
The dining is next-level
The Meru Sanur caters to a wide variety of foodie interests. At Arunika, a bustling breakfast buffet offers an impressive selection that will have you touring the globe from your plate thanks to dedicated Indian, Korean and French stations (among many others) serving everything from pork sausages and made-to-order eggs to heaven-scented crepes with your choice of toppings. Comprehensive labelling of allergens and dietary requirements made things easy and gave me the confidence to sample the crispy vegetable pakoras with chutney, which ended up being the unexpected highlight. Meanwhile, the dinner menu offers a wide range of dishes served overlooking the pool, with sides including magnificently moreish and fluffy cassava fries. Seafood-lovers can book in at Bali Beach Bar & Grill for freshly caught seafood grilled to perfection, from barramundi and red snapper fillets to local clams and oysters, set on the resort’s stretch of sands.
For a true culinary journey, Roso restaurant puts the spotlight on the diversity of local Indonesian specialties spanning the country from Sabang to Merauke, foregrounding local flavours in fine-dining style. The team were happy to accommodate for dietary requirements, even veganising their superb selection of Nusantara sambals and a piquant, spicy grilled tempeh that stole the show.
The suites are massive
Grand suites and chic design make lounging in your room an appealing proposition at The Meru Sanur. My Tropical Suite was generously appointed with a comfortable lounge area, walk-in wardrobe, a balcony that felt as spacious as the suite itself, and a truly Instagram-worthy bathtub overlooking a pocket of the resort’s lush jungle greenery. The seamless ‘Tropical Indulgence’ architecture marries wooden accents and woven textures with marble minimalism for an indulgent yet traditional aesthetic. Blackout blinds made for a blissful night’s rest, but waking early is its own reward with the chance to watch the sun roll golden down the wooden eaves.
Family-friendly facilities make travelling with children a breeze…
It can be tricky finding a family-friendly stay that strikes the right balance between kids’ activities and grown-up pampering, but The Meru Sanur delivers. At Niskala Kids Club, imagination is the hero thanks to a digital-free activity schedule including Balinese dance lessons, kite making, water gel blaster battles and myriad arts & crafts experiences. For quality time in that Sanur sun, families can make the most of the breezy beach atmosphere from the comfort of the sprawling main pool, just steps from the sand. The beach itself is quiet compared to Bali’s most popular sands. Locals and travellers lounge alongside one another, with warm water and gentle waves perfect for those eager to take a dip.
… but poolside serenity and cultural activities cater to travellers of every kind
Guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation need only wander down to the Meru Pool for a more tranquil poolside experience (reserved for those 12 years and older). The vibes are calmer here, with shaded cabanas and a poolside bar inviting afternoons spent at rest. Culture connoisseurs and wellness wanderers can make the most of a variety of resort activities including sunrise tai chi, cooking demonstrations, incense making and sunset yoga. For an unforgettable start to the day, you can organise to join a sunrise water purification ritual at the beach – just remember to bring your bathers!
You can make all your wellness wishes come true without ever leaving the resort
As the heart of Sanur’s new health and wellness district, The Meru Sanur offers a truly holistic approach to wellness. Whether you’re curious about the restorative Jamu juices on offer (the beras kencur offers a particularly refreshing combination of ginger, galangal and tamarind) or you’re keen to dive into the resort’s dedicated Wellness Menu featuring plentiful fresh produce, nutrition at The Meru is always considered and flavourful.
For those seeking stress-relief, the showstopping Taru Pramana Spa offer soothing massages and specialised deep-tissue treatments as part of a carefully constructed wellness journey. My traditional Balinese massage delivered on an hour of tension-relieving tranquillity with an optimal, even pressure, and the chance to choose the massage oil ahead of time. I opted for the comforting herbal freshness of rosemary and fennel, and the effect was so soothing that I practically float along as massage therapist Tiwi guides me to the lounge for post-treatment pear tea.
When it’s time to explore, Sanur’s local culture is just steps away
Unlike many Bali beachfront resorts, The Meru Sanur boasts design that complements the local area, featuring low walls, elegant greenery and easy beach access. That means Sanur’s vibrant local food scene and shopping is readily accessible just steps from the resort, while never clashing with the carefully curated atmosphere of The Meru’s lush grounds. Plentiful restaurants and cafes line the waterfront to the north, while Icon Bali Mall is your go-to stop for all things shopping, just a 20-minute walk away.
Plus, you’re within easy reach of Bali’s best sights
Any trip to Bali is sure to include some choice sightseeing – from top-tier temples like Tanah Lot to Nusa Dua’s best-of-the-best beaches – so a good location is key to making day trips doable. The Meru Sanur is perfectly positioned for days discovering the Island of the Gods, while still being back in time to enjoy the resort’s own delights. Situated in the new Sanur Special Economic Zone for Health & Wellness – the country’s only dedicated wellness tourism precinct – you’re never more than an hour from all the action of Seminyak, while still offering Sanur’s signature serenity.
The writer was a guest of The Meru Sanur.
