Wide, windy southern end of Sanur, popular with local kite-flyers, windsurfers and kitesurfers. Quieter and more local than central Sanur.
Mertasari Beach (Pantai Mertasari) lies at the southern end of the Sanur coastline on Jl. Mertasari in Sanur Kauh, South Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia. It is wider and windier than the central Sanur beaches and has a more local character, with fewer hotels and vendors. The sand is pale and slightly coarser than at central Sanur, and a grassy, partly shaded area sits behind the beach, where families spread mats and children play. The sea is shallow with a reef flat offshore, and at low tide the water recedes a long way, so the best time for a paddle or a swim is when the tide is higher. Because the beach is open and exposed to the afternoon wind, it is the main spot in the area for kite-flyers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers, and colourful kites fill the sky on windy days, especially in the dry season. The mood is casual and local rather than a resort scene, and it suits visitors who prefer open space over a busy promenade. Amenities include a car park, warung food stalls selling grilled corn, noodles, and cold drinks, public toilets, and equipment rental for windsurf and kite gear. There is no consistent lifeguard service, so swimmers should take care, particularly when the wind picks up or the tide turns. The beach is about 11 km southeast of central Denpasar, roughly 30 to 40 minutes by car, and a ride-hailing fare from the city centre typically runs IDR 45,000 to 80,000. A scooter ride takes about 30 minutes. From central Sanur, visitors can also walk or cycle south along the coastal path. Parking is easy on weekdays and can fill during weekends and holidays when local families visit. The beach is a good choice for those who want a quieter alternative to central Sanur, and it combines well with a morning walk and a late-morning meal at a warung before the afternoon wind builds.
| Distance | About 11 km southeast of Denpasar centre; 30-40 minutes |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Grab/Gojek IDR 45,000-80,000 (approx US$2.51-4.47) from central Denpasar; scooter 30 minutes |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Best season | April to October; best at low tide in the morning |
| Address | Jl. Mertasari, Sanur Kauh, South Denpasar, Bali 80227 |
Amenities
- Parking, warung food stalls, toilets, windsurf and kite gear rental, shaded grassy area
Good to know
- Best for
- families, surfers, photographers, beachcombers
Location
Jl. Mertasari, Sanur Kauh, South Denpasar, Bali 80227
-8.7133, 115.2631 View on map
Highlights
- Wide, open sand popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers
- Colourful kites flying in the dry-season afternoon wind
- Shaded grassy area behind the beach for picnics
- Quieter, more local atmosphere than central Sanur
- Warung stalls serving simple local food and drinks
Tips for visiting
- Visit in the morning at higher tide for easier swimming.
- Wind builds in the afternoon, which is the best time to watch kite activity.
- Bring sun protection, as shade is limited beyond the grassy area.
- Weekends bring local families, so arrive early for parking.
- Carry water shoes, as the reef flat can be rough underfoot.
When to visit
April to October in the morning at higher tide suits swimming, while the afternoon wind is best for watching or joining kite sports.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mertasari Beach good for kitesurfing?
Yes, it is a popular local spot for kite-flyers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers, especially in the windy dry season. Gear rental is available on site.
Is Mertasari Beach crowded?
It is generally quieter and more local than central Sanur. Weekends and holidays draw more local families.
Can visitors swim at Mertasari Beach?
Swimming is possible in the shallow water, best at higher tide. There is no consistent lifeguard service, so take care when the wind is strong.
How can visitors get to Mertasari Beach?
It is about 11 km southeast of central Denpasar. Ride-hailing costs roughly IDR 45,000 to 80,000, and a scooter takes about 30 minutes.