As beachfront neighborhood of Seminyak continues to evolve, it really does have all the right things that seemingly appeal to travelers from all walks of life. From upmarket hotels and private villas to stylish restaurants, boutiques, spas and bars, Seminyak really does have it all. So if you are looking for tips on how to make the most of this colorful lifestyle district, read on as we’ve narrowed down some of the more obvious options.
Dining Delights
Everyone knows that Seminyak has Bali’s most extensive and diverse collection of restaurants and cafes. It even has is very own “Eat Street” offering culinary delights from all parts of the world. While Seminyak keeps on growing, so too do the number of eateries catering to dedicated foodies, coffee lovers and healthy lifestyle seekers alike. There are old favorites like Warisan, La Lucciola, Ultimo and Warung Made alongside a whole lot of newcomers that are keeping the dining scene fresh and exciting.
Notable standouts include Sarong, Mama San, Metis, Sardine, The Bistrot and Sip Wine Bar.
Mama San Bar & Lounge
A more recent addition would have to be Sisterfields where you often have to queue for is arguably the best brunch in town.
There is also Tiger Palm that brings Malaysian tastes to Bali, while Saigon Street is Vietnamese flavors all the way. In fact, food in Seminyak deserves an article all of its own as there are just too many great places to mention.
Shop Until You Drop
Seminyak is a shopping paradise, especially if you are looking for quality resort wear and fun beach-ready outfits. The streets are lined with different boutiques selling everything from cool cotton caftans to branded surf t-shirts and even the latest Havaianas sandals. Pair this with a hip bag or a statement piece of silver jewellery and you are ready to hang out in all the right Seminyak places to eat, play or party.
If casual is your preferred look, then the informal market stalls at Seminyak Square are well worth a visit.
Have a wander down Jalan Double Six for what promises to be Bali’s most extensive choice of sarongs in every color of the rainbow.
For something a little more sophisticated, the newly opened Seminyak Village is a fully-air-conditioned facility fitted out with designer stores and fashionable eateries.
Afternoon High Tea at Biku
While high tea was once reserved for the upper class to ward off late afternoon hunger, Biku on the street of Petitenget have certainly get British tradition right. Dainty sandwiches, mini quiches, fruit tartlets and scones are served on a tier platter to share with others (or maybe not). All this is accompanied by your preferred blend of tea poured from an old fashioned teapot into a bone china cup.
High tea at Biku is a Seminyak indulgence that is not to be missed. And don’t be fooled because male guests seem to enjoy it just as much as the women. Optional sessions with the resident Tarot Card Reader are also available on certain days of the week. To cater to all taste preferences, Biku even has an Asian, breakfast and children’s version of afternoon tea with different selections of sweet and savory treats. Make sure you book a table to avoid being disappointed.
Sunsets & Chill Out Tunes
Seminyak is located on Bali’s west-facing shoreline overlooking the Indian Ocean, which means it is blessed with the most incredible sunsets all year round. There are plenty of great spots along the coast to watch the sun go down including the iconic KU DE TA and Potato Head Beach Club. Both venues serve creative cocktails paired with light bites as a resident DJ plays chill out tunes to set the mood.
For something a little less low key that won’t bite into your holiday budget, grab a colorful beanbag in the sand at La Plancha on Mesari Beach, Seminyak. Order a cold beer and a side of Spanish inspired snacks to watch the day come to an end with a vibrant display of color.
At the end of Jalan Double Six there are also lots of informal beach bars selling drinks from makeshift ice boxes. Sit down and have yourself a ‘tocs in the sand’ sunset experience for the price of just a local beer.
Spa Sensations
Seminyak has some of Bali’s best spas and there are many different options for you to choose from. As the island’s original day spa, Bodyworks is known for its consistency and high quality treatments.
Jari Menari means “dancing fingers” and this popular spa employs only male therapist who are all trained in the healing art of touch.
One of the largest wellnes venues on the island is Prana Spa a design-driven facility inspired by Indian and Middle Eastern architecture. It offers a full menu of body and beauty rituals, plus a range of ayurvedic therapies.
Specializing in acupressure, Chill Reflexology on Jalan Kunti will wow you with its Zen-like communal treatment room.
If you are not prepared to invest too much into being pampered, you can still enjoy a session of spa relaxation at any of the cheap and cheerful salons that line the streets of Seminyak.
Watch out for places that have tanks of water an seating out front as you can have yourself a fish spa treatment for just a few dollars. Tiny fish will nibble away at dead skin cell on your feet and leave your toes naturally exfoliated.