Seminyak is located between Legian (north of Jalan Nakula) and Canggu (Berawa), regarded as the most famous holiday spot. However, even Petitenget, which is somewhat regarded as part of Seminyak, is becoming more and more a destination in its own right. Seminyak is known to be Bali’s hippest beach town, popular among travelers who are looking for a more upscale and sophisticated alternative to Kuta when it comes to partying, dining, and shopping.
Famous for its magical sunsets, the beautiful beaches are decked with dozens of beach bars and widely known beach clubs. Seminyak offers everything that you would expect from an upbeat holiday destination. However, if you are looking for a cultural immersion into Bali’s traditions and natural beauty, take a couple day trips away from Seminyak to explore.
The heart of Seminyak is the area between the streets Jl Camplung Tanduk and Jl. Kayu Aya and further up north Jl. Petitenget, where many restaurants, clubs, shops, and bars are located. If you want to stay at or near the beach, you usually have to book a higher-end accommodation, though most places are within walking distance around 10 minutes to the beach. Therefore it’s important to understand how to get around in Seminyak, most holiday goers rent scooters for the best flexibility to explore.
Of the many international chefs who have settled in Bali to open restaurants, most have done so along the streets of Seminyak. The heart of the food scene is on Jalan Laksmana, also known as “Eat Street,” where the prices are not as high as the standards on quality. Great restaurants of all types can be found throughout Seminyak, including a few warungs (local family-owned eateries) that have managed to stay as busy as their international neighbours. Seminyak is the ideal location for food enthusiasts.
Seminyak is home to many trendy bars and clubs that begin to open at sunset and stay open late, inviting bands and DJs from all over the world to play for fashionable crowds. New places are always opening, and the entertainment changes from night to night. Hop from place to place and drink up the atmosphere, because Seminyak is the area to be in. Be aware that unlike other places in Bali, some of the bars and clubs here have a cover charge upon entry.
Seminyak is all about a relaxing time to shop till you drop, wine and dine, and party into the night. This is where local and international designers have set up their affordable boutiques that offer their creative takes on the latest fashion. Watching the sunset over a glass of wine or drinking out of a coconut is always a great idea for any season. If you plan to visit the beach clubs, beachfront bars or restaurants, it is recommended for you to make a reservation before your arrival as most places are usually full and booked during sunset hours.
Seminyak was a fairly quiet little area, besides the Double Six (66) Beach, until possibly the last decade when its traction began to boom. Many of the street names here are derived from hotels and restaurants that opened as the first businesses along these streets. As tourism and development spread through Kuta and Legian, Seminyak became a popular place for expatriates to enjoy a more peaceful and quiet atmosphere of paradise. In recent years, massive and rapid development has made Seminyak almost as busy as Kuta, although it has kept its unique character. There aren’t many cultural sites you can find here in Seminyak, though you can find the sea-temple Pura Petitenget near Petitenget beach.
