An essential part of the swathes of stunning beaches along the south coast of Bali next to the vibrant ambience of Kuta, is Seminyak beach and the town of Seminyak, which has its own eclectic mix of world-class restaurants, high end spas, designer boutiques, international surf shops and lifestyle brand outlets.
Seminyak today is Bali's up-and-coming fashion, dining and accommodation precinct, an upmarket coastal enclave just north of Legian and Kuta. Situated some 10km from Denpasar, capital city of Bali, Seminyak stretches from Double Six Street in the south and morphs into the villages of Kerobokan and Umalas, north of Pura Petitenget temple. The atmosphere here is much more sophisticated and laid-back compared to Kuta, while the beach in particular is relatively quieter during the day.
Seminyak is packed with some of Bali’s finest and most well-established restaurants, while several of its roads are recognized as must-visit dining destinations. Dubbed as a food-lover’s haven, rich flavors from all around the globe, prepared by highly skilled chefs – some of whom are notable figures in the international culinary scene – can be found here.
Seminyak's shopping scene comprising exclusive fashion boutiques and lifestyle brand outlets. Most of the smaller shops line the main road of Seminyak's Main Street (also referred to as Basangkasa Street), while a collection of other fashionable boutiques can be found along Laksmana Street and several corners of Petitenget Street.
Whether modern or ethnic chic, with natural and silk fabrics adorned with beading and sequins in strong deep colours – their summer collections are perfect for Bali’s tropical climate and any summer day around the world. Seminyak is also the high-end spa capital of Bali featuring great luxury in sophisticated setting, with so many options to choose from, where one can truly experience a perfect Balinese getaway.
Activities
Continuing the long sweep of Kuta, white sandy beaches stretch in both directions as far as the eye can see. The two notable beaches are the Seminyak Beach and Petitenget Beach which offer fantastic views of the Balinese sunset. Seminyak Beach is favored because of the great waves that are most ideal for surfers. This beach also features a beautiful panorama on the Indian Ocean.
Browsing and shopping along Seminyak fashion boutiques can occupy days of your holiday. Designer boutiques, funky stores, attractive galleries, wholesale emporiums and various workshops are among some of your choices. A good starting point for any shopper would be the legion of small boutiques and designer stores on Jalan Laksmana.
Get There
Seminyak is part of the main west coast conurbation in South Bali and traffic can get very congested at times. From Kuta and Legian, the Legian Street runs parallel with the beach, and at its western limit continues as Seminyak Street. You can also get to Seminyak via the eastern bypass of Sunset Street. This is almost invariably the quicker route from Kuta and Legian into Seminyak, although it is actually further distance-wise.