What first comes to your mind when you hear the word Seminyak? I bet beaches and surf spots are the first things you think of. But hey, Seminyak is so much more than that! Being one of Bali’s liveliest towns, Seminyak is packed with world-class restaurants, upscale beach clubs, and abundant shopping areas.
It’s also one of the most well-loved areas in Bali for tourists. Instead of just doing the regular sun-bathing and surfing, here are some popular places to visit while you’re in the area!Â
Make your own chocolate at Krakakoa Chocolate Cafe & Factory
Did you know that Seminyak has its own chocolate factory?! Well, it’s not like a fancy Willy Wonka factory, but an adorable little cafe on the outskirts of town with an on-site chocolate making program. For about an hour, you will get to see how they produce their chocolates. You’ll do everything from selecting ingredients to melting, tempering and molding your own chocolate bar creations like a pro.
Aside from the chocolate-making experience, you can stop by the café to sample delicious chocolates and various chocolate-based dishes such as chocolate cake, bonbons, hot chocolate, and more – now if you’re a chocolate addict (which I’m sure you are) then this is a haven not to be missed!
Visiting Love Anchor Store
Well, okay this one isn’t exactly in Seminyak – but hey it’s in the neighborhood, just 20 minutes drive from Seminyak. Love Anchor is one of the most popular markets in Canggu. With its distance of only 1 kilometer from the beach, this market is always packed. Here you will find a lot of clothes, accessories, and home appliances. And of course, for those of you who don’t want to drive all the way to Sukawati or Kuta traditional markets, this is the perfect place for you to buy souvenirs at the end of your trip.
Note that due to its popularity, Love Anchor tends to be more expensive compared to other traditional markets. You can bargain a little, but I’ve often found the shopkeepers to be quite firm in their pricing. However, it’s still cheaper compared to Western countries – and let’s just say you’re supporting local artisans and business owners.
Watch the sun goes down in La Plancha
Being the first Chiringuito-style beach bar in Bali with Spanish handicrafts, colorful bean bags and bright traditional Balinese umbrellas, La Plancha has attracted a lot of visitors. But for me, honestly, it’s not just the place that’s eye-catching, the food is also outstanding!
La Plancha gets crowded at sunset, of course. The beach is also a great place to surf, with waves suitable for beginners and plenty of surf schools – so you might be able to catch a few waves while you wait for the sun to set and enjoy a cold Bintang or two.
Oh, just a quick tip – Don’t make the mistake of grabbing a bean bag in the front row if it’s high tide. Expats entertaining friends here often have a good laugh at the unsuspecting tourists who try to refrain from standing up thinking the incoming tide won’t reach them, but it does, so be careful not to embarrass yourself.
Spend a day at a famous beach club
A visit to Seminyak without going to the beach club? Ouch… Your journey is not complete, babe. As you already know, Bali’s beachside is home to some legendary beach clubs that are a must-visit, especially if you are into parties. Here are some of my recommendations:
- Desa Potato Head
- Mrs Sippy
- Ku De Ta
Ku De Ta and Potato Head Village are both right on the beach. So you can come here, place your order, and maybe take a little beach stroll while waiting for your food to be prepared. While Mrs. Sippy is not right on the beach, this one is perfect for you to have a day without the public beach crowds and want something quieter. So, pick up your fanciest bikini and take a big splash!
When it gets dark, head to Motel Mexicola
Nestled amongst the coconut palms and glassy shores of Seminyak is a tropical oasis known as Motel Mexicola. Yep, your thought is right – This is a Mexican style bar & restaurant.To get inside, you will pass through a strict security check from 5 people, yes this is a little strict, but once you get inside, you will immediately be welcomed by Mexicola’s vibrant and lively atmosphere! The neon lights scattered throughout the room add to the festive feel of Mexicola.
The amount of work that has gone into creating Motel Mexicola is simply incredible. It’s like the Sistine Chapel straight out of Mexico. The sheer amount of thought, detail, artistry, and use of color in every corner, wall, and ceiling is simply mind-blowing. Like, who wants to combine bright yellow with turquoise green and red, black, blue, with lots of patterns? Well…Mexicola, and the cool thing is, they can all match and make for a gorgeous space. Psttt.. It’s also a must-visit place for proper tacos, tostadas, aguachile, quesadillas and cocktails!
Conclusion
Despite its well-known traffic jams, Seminyak has plenty of great spots to visit. And since it’s known to be a touristy area, you’ll feel right at home, surrounded by people you might have accidentally stumbled upon?
The five activity ideas I gave you are just a small part of popular spots in Seminyak. While you’re around, feel free to explore new places or things-after all, that’s what vacations are for. Bon voyage, peeps!
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