Nestled along Bali’s southwestern coast, Canggu is a vibrant blend of lush rice paddies, world-class surfing beaches, and a thriving café culture. Historically a sleepy fishing village, Canggu began its transformation in the early 2000s as surfers discovered its excellent waves and refugees were drawn to its serene landscapes and traditional Balinese charm. Over the past two decades, it has evolved into a bohemian district that attracts digital nomads, wellness enthusiasts, and adventurers alike. The area still retains its rustic beauty and relaxed pace, making it a refreshing escape from the more commercialized areas of Bali.

Canggu’s appeal lies in its eclectic mix of attractions and its laid-back vibe. It’s a place where you can start your day with a yoga session overlooking rice terraces, catch some of Bali’s best waves in the afternoon, and end with a sunset cocktail at a beachside bar. The village’s culinary scene is as diverse as its visitors, offering everything from local warungs to upscale dining. Whether you are seeking tranquility, adventure, or a creative atmosphere, Canggu promises a unique and fulfilling experience.

Best Time to Travel:

Canggu enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when you can expect sunny days and pleasant evenings. This period is ideal for beach activities and exploring the outdoors without the interruption of heavy rainfall. The wet season, from October to April, brings higher humidity and occasional downpours, but it also means fewer tourists and lush, green landscapes.

5 Must-Sees in Canggu:

1. Echo Beach: renowned for its stunning sunsets and surf-friendly waves, Echo Beach is perfect for both relaxation and adventure. This black sand beach is a haven for surfers of all levels, offering consistent swells and a lively atmosphere. As the day winds down, head to one of the beachside warungs for fresh seafood and enjoy the breathtaking sunset views, making it a perfect spot for an evening unwind.

2. Tanah Lot Temple: just a short drive from Canggu, this iconic sea temple offers breathtaking views, especially at sunset. Perched on a rock formation, Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most photographed and spiritually significant temples. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, watch traditional Balinese performances, and marvel at the dramatic ocean backdrop that enhances its mystical aura. If you are interested, here you have a private tour of the temple.

3. Batu Bolong Beach: another favorite surf spot, Batu Bolong is also great for a leisurely beach day with its numerous beachside cafes and bars. This long stretch of coastline is ideal for both beginners and seasoned surfers. After catching some waves, you can relax at popular hangouts like The Lawn or Old Man’s, enjoying chilled vibes, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. For more information on beach clubs, you can click here.

4. Love Anchor Market: shop for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and fashionable items at this trendy market. Love Anchor Market is a bustling bazaar filled with stalls selling everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to home decor and artisanal goods. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts and immerse yourself in the local shopping scene.

5. Pasut Beach: a more secluded and tranquil option compared to the busier beaches, Pasut Beach offers a peaceful retreat with its pristine black sand and coconut palm-lined shoreline. It’s an excellent spot for a quiet stroll, photography, and enjoying the serene ambiance away from the crowds. The unique patterns formed by the tides on the black sand create a stunning visual effect, making it a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.

Other Activities and Places to See in Canggu:

1. Attend a Yoga Class: embrace the tranquility and rejuvenation that Canggu’s yoga studios offer. Places like The Practice and Serenity Eco Guesthouse provide daily yoga classes in serene settings that are perfect for both beginners and experienced practitioners. The Practice is known for its traditional approach to yoga, offering classes that focus on breathwork, meditation, and physical postures. Serenity Eco Guesthouse, on the other hand, combines yoga with an eco-friendly philosophy, offering a variety of yoga styles in a tranquil garden setting. Also, you can have fun while staying active during your trip with puppy yoga classes.

2. Attend a Surf Class: Canggu is a surfer’s paradise, and whether you are a beginner or an advanced surfer, the local surf schools can enhance your skills. With experienced instructors and access to some of Bali’s best waves, these schools ensure a fun and safe learning environment. We highly recommend you to walk through Batu Bolong Beach, to see the different surf schools and book them in person, since it’s more cheap. If not, here you can book your spot for a surfing class.

3. Jewelry Making Class: dive into the artistic side of Canggu by taking a jewelry-making class. Local studios offer workshops where you can learn the traditional Balinese techniques of crafting silver jewelry. This hands-on experience allows you to create your own unique pieces, making for a special souvenir or gift. You will be guided through the entire process, from designing your piece to the final polishing touches, providing both a creative outlet and a deeper appreciation for Balinese craftsmanship. Book your spot here.

4. Horseback Riding: experience the beauty of Canggu’s landscapes on horseback. The Bali Equestrian Centre offers guided horseback rides along the beach and through the scenic rice fields. This unique activity provides an alternative way to explore the area’s natural beauty, and it’s suitable for riders of all levels. Whether you are trotting along the shoreline or meandering through lush fields, the experience is sure to be memorable.

How to Move Through Canggu:

The most convenient way to get around Canggu is by scooter, which you can easily rent from various shops around town or even directly from your guesthouse or hotel. Always prioritize safety by wearing a helmet, driving cautiously, and carrying an international driving permit if required.

For those less comfortable on two wheels, ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek offer a convenient and safe alternative, with options for both cars and motorbike taxis. These services are user-friendly and reliable, making it easy to get a ride within minutes, perfect for short trips or when parking is a hassle.

For a more relaxed and eco-friendly exploration, consider renting a bicycle. Many guesthouses and rental shops offer bikes at reasonable rates, making them ideal for taking in the scenic rice fields and exploring quieter village paths at a leisurely pace.

Where to Sleep in Canggu:

When it comes to accommodations in Canggu, there’s a wide range of options to suit every style and budget, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. From cozy guesthouses to luxurious villas.

Here we leave you some hotels:

• Luxury: enjoy Canggu from the comfort of your hotel. Eastin Ashta Resort Canggu, offers contemporary luxury with stylish rooms, a stunning pool, and top-notch amenities just steps from the beach.
• Mid-Range: ASTON Canggu Beach Resort, is the perfect mid-range option, it combines modern accommodations with panoramic ocean views and a rooftop pool. Guests can enjoy easy access to the vibrant surf scene and local eateries, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
• Budget: embrace affordability without compromising the comfort. Roomates Hostel Canggu, provides a social and affordable stay with comfortable dormitories and private rooms, complete with a communal pool and vibrant common areas. It’s a great choice for backpackers looking to meet fellow travelers. Also, Papillon Echobeach, offers cozy rooms and a relaxed atmosphere with an inviting outdoor pool and garden area.

Where to Eat in Canggu:

When it comes to culinary experiences in Canggu, you are in for a treat with a variety of local delicacies and international cuisine to tantalize your taste buds. A significant highlight is the Balinese warungs, traditional eateries that offer authentic Balinese cuisine at affordable prices. These warungs are popular among both locals and tourists for their genuine flavors and cultural significance.

In addition to the traditional eateries, Canggu boasts an eclectic mix of beach clubs that offer not only delicious food but also a lively atmosphere perfect for those looking to add a bit of party to their dining experience. From vibrant music to refreshing cocktails and delectable bites, these beach clubs provide a unique blend of culinary delights and entertainment against the backdrop of stunning coastal views.

Here we leave you some restaurants:

• Warung Bu Mi: a local favorite for authentic Indonesian dishes at affordable prices. Enjoy a variety of traditional meals in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
• Inklusiv Warung: known for its delicious and budget-friendly Indonesian cuisine, Inklusiv Warung offers a range of local dishes that cater to both vegetarians and meat lovers. The relaxed setting and friendly service make it a great spot for a casual meal.
• LowCal, Cheatery and Bar: this spot offers a unique twist on healthy eating, serving up nutritious and delicious meals alongside indulgent “cheat day” treats. The menu includes a variety of options to suit different dietary preferences, all in a vibrant and trendy setting.
• La Brisa Bali: located on Echo Beach, La Brisa Bali offers stunning ocean views, a relaxed beach vibe, and a menu featuring fresh seafood and tropical cocktails. It’s the perfect place to unwind, enjoy the sunset, and savor a meal in a beautiful, rustic setting.

Our opinion of Canggu:

We decided to check out Canggu while exploring Bali because we heard it’s a great spot for surfing, especially for beginners like us with lots of surf schools and helpful teachers. But when we got there, we found a lot of trash at the beach, and the water wasn’t as clear as we expected. Plus, the bottom of the beach was rocky, so we had to be careful when falling over the board. Despite these hiccups, we had a blast surfing, even though we lost our GoPro in the waves.

Still, we found other cool stuff to do in Canggu. But looking back, we think places like Uluwatu might be better. The beaches there are cleaner, the water is clearer, and there aren’t as many rocks to watch out for. So, if you are running on a tight schedule, we suggest spending more time in Uluwatu and maybe just doing a quick visit to Canggu for a day.

Other areas of Bali to explore:

Ubud: nestled in the heart of Bali, Ubud is renowned for its lush rice terraces, vibrant arts and crafts scene, and spiritual atmosphere. This cultural hub offers visitors a blend of traditional Balinese culture and natural beauty, with attractions like the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and the Ubud Royal Palace. Wander through its bustling markets, explore its art galleries, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings that make Ubud a perfect destination for relaxation and cultural immersion. More information in our travel blog of Ubud here.

Munduk: tucked away in Bali’s northern highlands, Munduk is a haven of natural beauty and tranquility. This picturesque village is surrounded by misty mountains, coffee plantations, and stunning waterfalls, such as Munduk and Melanting Falls. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering opportunities for trekking, bird watching, and exploring the serene lakes of Tamblingan and Buyan. Munduk’s cool climate and breathtaking scenery provide a refreshing escape from the island’s busier tourist spots. More information in our travel blog of Munduk here.

Uluwatu: perched on the southwestern tip of Bali, Uluwatu is famous for its dramatic cliffs, world-class surf breaks, and the iconic Uluwatu Temple. This area boasts some of the island’s most stunning coastal views, making it a paradise for surfers and beach lovers. In addition to its natural beauty, Uluwatu offers a vibrant nightlife with clifftop bars and restaurants that provide spectacular sunset views. The Kecak fire dance performance at Uluwatu Temple is a must-see cultural experience, adding to the area’s allure. More information in our travel blog of Uluwatu here.

Nusa Penida: just a short boat ride from Bali, Nusa Penida is an island paradise known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic coastal landscapes. Highlights include the breathtaking Kelingking Beach, the natural infinity pool at Angel’s Billabong, and the vibrant marine life at Crystal Bay. Nusa Penida offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring hidden coves and cliffs. More information in our travel blog of Nusa Penida here.

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Tell us in the comments your opinion about Canggu!