Canggu is the perfect place to head in Bali if you’re looking for the ultimate recommendation for where to stay in Bali, which has a chilled-out and relaxed atmosphere.
In Canggu, you will experience some of the best restaurants and cafes, as well as great surf breaks, parties, and beach clubs – all side-by-side with rice paddies and a local village feel.
Unlike the hectic and commercialised hubs of Kuta and Seminyak just to the south, Canggu has a more laid-back surfy atmosphere.
Canggu is also an ideal base to explore some of Bali’s most famous attractions. By staying in Canggu, you can easily arrange a day trip to Tanah Lot temple and other attractions, such as Ubud, Seminyak, and Uluwatu. After a long day of exploring, you can relax and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Canggu, which has more good vibes and is a little less crowded than other tourist hotspots.
If you love to shop, then the boho-style clothing and interior shops, many of which are small owner-operator businesses, are full of amazing finds.
I recommend starting your shopping spree along Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong, the main strip of Canggu.
Canggu is a popular destination for those who take their coffee and food seriously, with a range of delicious and healthy options available made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Many of the places are super picturesque, perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy shots. From sipping lattes next to rice paddies to the breathtaking beach clubs, there’s no shortage of breathtaking backdrops to choose from for your social media posts.
Part of the charm of Canggu is that it’s still rather local, but like most of Bali, Canggu is changing rapidly, so best to get here sooner rather than later!
Accommodation in this area is plentiful. From small homestays to private villas available to rent and a handful of bigger resort-style hotels.
If you’re planning a trip to Canggu, I recommend finding boutique accommodation a bit away from the main street. This way, you’ll have the chance to live among local people in charming villages set amidst breathtaking rice paddy fields, which can provide a more genuine experience of Bali.
Best luxury hotel: COMO Uma Canggu
Best boutique hotel: Theanna Villa and Spa Canggu
Best homestay: Eastin Ashta Resort Canggu
Tanah Lot Temple, a significant Balinese landmark, sits on an offshore outcrop surrounded by crashing waves. The complex onshore features smaller shrines, restaurants, shops, and cultural performances. Located in Beraban village, 20km from Kuta, it’s a must-visit on Bali tours. The temple’s legend involves a priest, Dang Hyang Nirartha, who transformed the landscape. High tide makes it inaccessible, while low tide reveals sea snakes and a holy water spout. Visitors can receive blessings and sip the freshwater. Nearby temples, pathways, and gardens offer scenic views. Safety precautions are advised due to hazardous waves. Witness festive parades during Kuningan and dress respectfully. Tanah Lot is also known for its sunset Kecak dance performances and dining options with beautiful temple views.
Echo Beach, also known as Pantai Batu Mejan, is a renowned surf spot in Bali. Located in Canggu, it boasts advanced reef breaks, stunning seascape views, and seafood cafes. This black-sand beach is 35 km northwest of Kuta, accessible via a 45-minute transfer from Ngurah Rai International Airport. Echo Beach offers surfboard rentals, ding repairs, and parking. The beach features cozy cafes with sunset dining options and overlooks a centuries-old temple. While it’s great for sunbathing and leisurely strolls, its waves are for advanced surfers. Beach clean-ups are regularly conducted by surf schools and clubs.
Finns Recreation Club in Canggu offers an array of sports facilities and entertainment options. Open year-round to the public, it provides gym access, an Olympic-sized pool, tennis courts, a kids’ club, and a spa. The colonial-style clubhouse features a sports bar screening live events, while an expansive sports field hosts matches and community events. Families can enjoy Splash Waterpark Bali and indoor trampolining at Bounce Bali. There’s also a 10-pin bowling center, Strike Bali. For remote workers, day passes offer Wi-Fi access and co-working space. Various memberships, providing discounts, are available for extended stays.
Splash Waterpark in Bali, located near Canggu’s Berawa Beach, offers a range of pools and slides suitable for both adults and kids. Highlights include the Giant Racer, a 90-meter slide for adults and older kids, and the Speed Racer designed for younger children. The Super Bowl provides a thrilling ride with spins and turns, while the Big Red offers a high-speed joyride. There are also leisurely rides for toddlers in the Splash Playground. Lifeguards are present, and Splash Poolside Bar & Dining serves snacks, pizzas, and Mexican food. Day passes include access to the waterpark, an Olympic-sized pool, daybeds, and Wi-Fi.
Tugu Hotel Bali’s Iboe Soelastri Cooking Class offers a unique opportunity to delve into Indonesia’s culinary traditions. Led by Chef Iboe Soelastri, who inherited her grandmother’s passion for authentic Indonesian cuisine, the class covers the selection and preparation of five traditional Javanese and Balinese dishes. Every step adheres to time-honored techniques, including grinding ginger with a mortar and pestle, and traditional terracotta steamers are used instead of modern rice cookers for an authentic cooking experience.
The Bali Equestrian Centre spans 25,000 square meters and is staffed by certified international instructors. It houses a diverse stable of over 30 expertly trained horses, featuring both local and imported breeds. Families are warmly welcomed, with options for leisurely pony rides and kids’ day camps. Whether you’re a novice or experienced rider, the centre provides horseback riding lessons for both adults and children. Additionally, there’s an on-site restaurant serving breakfast and lunch, along with amenities like a swimming pool and a playground offering scenic views of the main riding arena.
