Things to do in Seminyak
Seminyak has long been known as the pulse of lifestyle in Bali. Its streets are lined with boutiques and restaurants, while beach clubs are familiar sights on Seminyak Beach. If you enjoy fine dining and luxurious villas, this southern west coast area of Bali is the right place to be. Whether you’re staying or planning a day trip to Seminyak, this area of Bali will charm you with its vibrant lifestyle.
Best Accommodation in Seminyak
Staying in Seminyak when visiting Bali is one of the best decisions you can make. The beachfront resorts and hotels may steal the spotlight but don’t count out the villas and budget accommodations in the quiet parts and backstreets of Seminyak.
Best Restaurants in Seminyak
There’s no such thing as running out of options for places to eat in Bali when you’re in Seminyak. Whether it’s the fine dining restaurants, the night markets with Indonesian street food, or the casual seafood restaurants and bars by the beach, Seminyak has it all.
Best Spa in Seminyak
One of the best things to do in Seminyak after all the cultural excursions and partying is to hit the spa. Trust us, there’s no better feeling than having a Balinese massage with the smell of ylang-ylang aromatherapy oil in the air.
What to Do in Seminyak
Unlike Kuta and Uluwatu, with their surfing spots and culture, Seminyak is about lifestyle. Get ready for a shopping spree at Jalan Oberoi. Enjoy your favourite cocktails while waiting for the sunset at beach clubs like Potato Head or Ku De Ta. Dress to the nines and dance to the Latin beats at Motel Mexicola. Save the yoga classes for Ubud and boat tours for Nusa Penida, and take a Balinese cooking class instead! Seminyak is all about entertainment, fun and the beach.
1. Relax at Seminyak Beach
You need to reserve a day to chill and spend time at Seminyak Beach. Rent one of the sunbeds and umbrellas from the locals. Have a cold young coconut or fries at hand while reading your unfinished novel. Or head to a beach bar to have your favourite cocktails. Put on your sunscreen and swim in warm water when conditions permit. Savour the salt air and the Indian Ocean breeze, and wait for that sun to set. You’ll not regret spending the day at Seminyak Beach.
2. Shop at Seminyak Square
Among the best things to do in Seminyak is shopping. Plus, you can do all your shopping in one place at Seminyak Square. Get that wallet and those feet ready for some serious window shopping. You can browse the latest fashion collections from local and international brands. Should you need anything else, head to Seminyak Village. The two-storey shopping mall of Seminyak Village has everything you can think of. From clothing, souvenirs, candies, and kids’ clothes to cafés and chic spas on the rooftop. You need to schedule a whole day to shop here!
3. Explore Petitenget Temple
Petitenget Temple is often overlooked due to its location on Seminyak Beach. But this Seminyak temple is one of the most important and oldest in Bali. The temple was built in the 15th or 16th century and was dedicated to Dewi Sri, the goddess of rice and fertility. Petitenget Temple is striking because of its red brick gate and the intricately carved dragon on the entrance. It is also one of the main sea temples in Bali, and it protects the island from evil spirits. It’s important to dress appropriately when visiting the Petitenget Temple area, as it is a sacred place for the Balinese.
4. Experience the Vibrant Atmosphere of Ku De Ta
Iconic is the right word to describe Ku De Ta. Ku De Ta in Seminyak pioneered the beach club scene in Bali even before the beach club became a thing. For over two decades, its popularity has kept it one of the best places to go in Seminyak. The iconic annual White Party every August 17th is one of the most awaited events in Bali. The Seminyak beach views, extensive cocktail menu, and laid-back atmosphere have made Ku De Ta a great place to hang out.
5. Discover Contemporary Art at Nyaman Gallery
Despite its status as a lifestyle mecca in Bali, art galleries are a rare sight in Seminyak. Nyaman translates as cozy in English, and Nyaman Gallery strives to give authentic and genuine feelings of home through art. Ten Indonesian and international artists showcase their magnificent talents inspired by the beauty of Bali. At Nyaman Gallery, you can find more than just contemporary art. The traditional bronze, metals, horn, bone, stone, wood, and tribal arts are also on display at Nyaman Gallery.
6. Wander Through the Seminyak Flea Market
The Seminyak Flea Market in Kayu Aya is not a literal flea market. It takes the essence of the outdoor market in the Western world and the name to make it easy to remember. Here, you will not find any second-hand goods. The flea market was founded in 2011 to accommodate the growing numbers of local merchants around Oberoi. Under the tents, you can find anything, from clothes to Bali souvenir shops, of which there are many at this Seminyak market. If you want to practice your bargaining skills, the flea market is the right place to get the lowest price possible!
7. Take a Cooking Class in Seminyak
Instead of a yoga class, taking a cooking class is one of the key things to do in Seminyak to immerse yourself in Bali culture. In Seminyak, there are a few Balinese cooking classes you can take. In most classes, you will learn about the ingredients and techniques to cook traditional Balinese dishes. Some classes also offer you the opportunity to have a food tour of the market to buy the ingredients. The variety of spices may sound intimidating. But once you recognise the shapes and smells, you will know how to cook the dishes in your home country!
8. Catch a Live DJ Set at Mrs. Sippy Bali
A beach club without being actually by the beach? Welcome to Mrs. Sippy Bali. Mrs. Sippy offers a beach-inspired setting with the sand and a saltwater pool. Mrs. Sippy is where the famous Saturday Pool Party takes place every Saturday. Outside of the relaxed setting and party scene, the international DJs at Mrs. Sippy are always ready to set up the mood daily with their setlist of tropical beats. Savour Mediterranean food using locally sourced ingredients and signature cocktails for your incredible day at Mrs. Sippy.
9. Explore Local Boutiques on Oberoi Street
Many talented designers reside in Bali, and Oberoi Street in Seminyak is where they display their creations. Rows of boutiques full of quirky and classic designs make Oberoi Street the local equivalent of Rodeo Drive in LA. If you need a day trip plan, this can be it! Whether you’re looking for an elegant evening dress or cute and colourful bikinis, you will find them all here. Don’t forget to wear your most comfortable shoes and clothes! The Bali weather can be humid and hot, and you will have to walk a lot from one shop to the next!
10. Enjoy Sunset at La Plancha Beach Bar
La Plancha in Seminyak is the epitome of a classic beach bar in Bali. With the colourful bean bags, chairs and umbrellas, the Bohemian vibe is unmistakable. Without a minimum spend, unlike in the beach clubs, it is no wonder going to La Plancha is an essential Seminyak activity. You can savour the delicious Spanish food here and sip your Sangria if you feel festive. Sitting at one of the beanbags, having a Bintang beer, and watching the sunset is the true definition of enjoying a Bali holiday.