Hands up, who here has a Bali travel vision board? If yes, does that vision board have colorful umbrellas on the beach on it? If yes again, do you know where it is?!
The world-famous colorful sun umbrellas in Seminyak have become a modern landmark in Bali, and for those planning visits to the island, here is everything you need to know about this picture-perfect sundowner spot.
The world-famous colorful sun umbrellas belong to one of the best beachfront hangouts in all of Bali, La Plancha. Located in the heart of Jalan Mesari Beach in Seminyak, the iconic umbrellas and beanbags have been a feature of the shoreline since La Plancha opened its doors in 2010.
The La Plancha team explains, “Being the first beach bar of Chiringuito style in Bali with Spanish vintage craft, colorful bean bags and bright traditional Balinese umbrellas, La Plancha brings the spirit and landscape of two iconic places to life. Besides being a trendsetter, our venue is the perfect spot for you to enjoy cotton candy skies, basking in seafront scenery and playing in the sands.”
Adding “We offer customers a relaxation experience by giving the possibility to enjoy a day at the beach by combining extraordinary decorations, hit music, delicious authentic food, chill cocktails and excellent service.”
Honestly, it really is as vibey IRL as it appears online and it’s a spot that we at The Bali Sun always recommend to family and friends when they come to visit.
La Plancha is actually open daily from 10 am, but it is the sunset session that really draws the crowds, making booking essential. Our top tip is to book as far in advance as possible, especially since during the peak of the high season it can be tricky to secure a spot for sunset.
Being one of the most popular hangout spots in Seminyak means that La Plancha is always on trend, and whatever the season, you can guarantee that the team has put together a thoughtfully created and seriously tasty selection of specials, whether it’s the Chinese New Year, the Schoolies Season, Galungan and Kuningan, or even Christmas.
The main food menu is served from 12 am to 10 pm, and our top picks for sundowner nibbles are the Watermelon and Tomato Salad, for something a little refreshing in the late afternoon sun, followed by the Green Pea Hummus and Fried Calamari…it just works!
It has to be said, however, that the La Plancha Pizzas are not only seriously good value, but super filling and exceptionally tasty. As ever the accommodating hosts, the pizzas have both gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options.
La Plancha’s signature cocktails are where the sundowner session really gets started. For most folks enjoying the sunset in Seminyak, the order is a simple bucket of Bintang (which is of course available), but a visit to the iconic La Plancha requires something more sophisticated.
The Watermelon Cooler, featuring tequila reposado, fresh watermelon, chili, fresh lime juice and soda water, pairs perfectly with our top pick, Watermelon Salad. For a seriously impressive tipple, be sure to order the La Plancha Spritz, which is the perfectly chilled mix of gin, dry martini, lime, pomegranate seeds, rose water peach syrup and lemonade.
If you’re reading this and thinking, well this is all well and good but I’ve seen photos of other brightly coloured beanbags and umbrellas and someone said it’s close to Tanah Lot Temple….Seminyak is not next to Tanah Lot Temple right?!
Right?! There is, in fact, another spot in Bali which offers spectacular sunset views and the comfort and luxury of colorful beanbags.
That spot is The Beach Love, which overlooks Kedungu Beach and is a 20-minute drive from Tanah Lot Temple. It’s a gorgeous place to relax and enjoy the sunset, and is certainly less crowded than Seminyak during the peak season. The Beach Love is a destination in its own right, and certainly a worthy way to spend an evening after visiting the wonders of Tabanan Regency…but that’s a whole other story!
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