Canggu is a small beach town in the heart of Bali that has grown into a busy digital nomadic hub attracting many visitors each year.
The beauty of Canggu is that it isn’t just a small town; it buzzes with liveliness and offers activities of all sorts—from surfing and watching the “never gets old” sunsets while sipping fresh coconuts to partying at epic beach clubs, enjoying fabulous meals at fabulous restaurants, shopping, spas, yoga studios, and so much more!
If you’re curious about the best things to do in Canggu, you’re in the right place! After five amazing years living here, I’ve crafted this travel guide to help you explore everything this stunning part of Bali has to offer.
Join me as I share the best things to do in Canggu, so you can plan your next getaway and fully embrace the magic of this paradise island!
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How to Get to Canggu
Bali, a stunning island in Southeast Asia, is home to Canggu, located on the island’s west coast. To get there, you’ll land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (also known as Denpasar Airport). The drive to Canggu takes about an hour, with normal traffic—though if you hit the wrong time, it can take a lot longer!
Best Time to Visit Canggu
Canggu is a year-round destination, but knowing the weather patterns and crowd levels will help you plan your trip better.
Generally, the dry season, which runs from April to October, is a great time to visit Canggu. This period offers the best weather in Bali, with average temperatures ranging from about 24 °C to 31 °C (75 °F to 88 °F). The days are warm, but the humidity is much lower than during the wet season. But do note that July and August are the peak season, so the island can get quite busy.
The shoulder months, which fall either before or after the dry season (April to June and September to October), are the best time to visit Canggu because of the favorable weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds.
The wet season runs from November to March. During this period, you can expect hot days, high humidity, and a good chance of rain. On average, temperatures range from about 24 °C to 30 °C (75 °F to 86 °F) but with humidity levels of 70% to 90%.
December and January are the busiest months on the island. You can expect Canggu to be quite crowded during the holiday season, with increased traffic, venues at capacity, and prices at their peak.
Canggu, and Bali in general, has changed and grown drastically in recent years. Nowadays, the island is always bustling (though some months are busier than others). The upside is that there’s always something to do, with events happening from day to night. The downside? Traffic, crowds, and prices are higher than Bali has ever seen before.
No matter the time of year, be sure to plan and book in advance!
Important Things to Know Before You Go
Do I Need a Visa for Bali?
Yes! Most visitors need a tourist visa to enter Bali. Visitors from 92 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and China, can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival (VOA), which is extendable for another 30 days. Additionally, certain ASEAN countries like Malaysia and Thailand can enter Bali visa-free for tourism purposes for up to 30 days. Be sure to check the official site for your country’s specific requirements.
Where to Stay in Canggu?
Staying in one of these areas puts you near all the popular spots, with plenty of accommodation options available, including guesthouses, hotels, and villas to suit your vibe and budget.
Echo Beach: A great spot if you’re looking for a laid-back vibe with easy access to surfing. It’s a quieter side of Canggu, but you’ll still find plenty of restaurants, shops, and spas nearby.
Batu Bolong: The heart of Canggu and the perfect place to stay if you want to be in the center of the action. There’s no shortage of cafes, shops, bars, nightclubs, and fine dining restaurants, all just a short walk from the beach.
Barawa: A lighter version of Batu Balong, yet still buzzing with action, it’s home to some of the best beach clubs in Canggu. From here, you’ll be close to everything you need.
Pererenan: The ideal spot for families seeking a secluded and relaxed atmosphere. While it has seen significant growth recently, with plenty of cafés and restaurants popping up, it still offers a much quieter vibe compared to the rest of Canggu. The streets feel more relaxed, and you can still find untouched rice fields, making it an ideal spot to be close enough to all the action while still enjoying a tranquil escape.
Best Things to Do in Canggu
Canggu is one of the most lively spots in Bali, with a great mix of activities to keep you busy and having fun. Whether it is catching waves, watching the sunset at a beach club, exploring the local culture, or taking a yoga class, Canggu has something for everyone.
Plan your next getaway by discovering all the best things to do in Canggu and make the most of your time in this vibrant destination!
Chill in Style at Canggu’s Best Beach Clubs
Canggu is famous for its amazing beach clubs, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views, top-notch amenities, and lively parties.
Whether you want to relax, tan, watch the sunset, or dance the night away, Canggu’s beach clubs have it all. Think sunset drinks, swimming pools, comfortable sunbeds, and tropical beats, all set against the backdrop of a beautiful beachside setting.
Here are the best beach clubs to visit in Canggu:
La Brisa Bali
La Brisa, located at Eco Beach, is a venue you definitely want to visit! The setting is everything you’d expect from an island getaway—with decor crafted from 500-year-old fisherman boats, lanterns, nets, palm trees, and a mix of natural materials like wood, bamboo, and rattan.
Their menu is extensive, so you’ll find something you like. With two pools, plenty of sunbeds, and easy access to the beach, La Brisa is the perfect place to relax, tan, and catch a sunset. Note that there is always a minimum spend, and the venue tends to fill up quickly.
FINN’S Beach Club
Located in Berawa, Finns Beach Club is considered one of the best beach clubs in Canggu! This huge venue has everything you need: four pools (including an infinity pool), various restaurants offering both international and local food, and several bars.
It gives a laid-back yet luxurious vibe, and provides the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. With regular events and a vibrant atmosphere, Finns is the go-to spot for lounging during the day and partying at night. Note that to get a daybed, there is always a minimum consumption requirement.
Sol Rooftop
Located at Pererenan Beach, Sol Rooftop is the ultimate chill spot. With a pool that overlooks the sea and a cozy, boho-style vibe, it’s made for lounging. Take a dip in the pool, soak in the stunning views (it’s the perfect spot for sunset!), and vibe to tropical beats all day long. Relax in hammock nets or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. The best part? There’s no minimum spend!
Times Beach Warung
Times Warung is my favorite spot for a morning coffee while watching the surfers and taking in the ocean views. It’s also one of the best places in Batu Balong beach to catch the sunset. With cozy bean bags to relax in, it’s a super laid-back spot to unwind. They don’t take reservations, and it fills up quickly, especially around sunset, so be sure to arrive early!
The Lawn
Located next to Times Warung, The Lawn is a trendy beachfront venue that combines a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. There’s no minimum spend at the tables inside, but for the daybeds, it’s a different story as the space is limited.
The venue boasts a stunning pool overlooking the ocean, perfect for a refreshing dip. Throughout the day, a DJ spins chilled tunes, and they also host events regularly. By night, it transforms into a lively party spot.
Le Bajo
Le Bajo Beach Club, located in Pererenan, is a hidden gem perfect for a laid-back day out. Although it’s not directly on the beach, this new spot offers cool tropical vibes and stunning rice field views. It’s ideal for families, with plenty of space to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The venue features a beautiful pool, comfortable sunbeds, a restaurant, and a rooftop area. And, there’s no entry fee!
Atlas Beach Club
Located in Batu Belig, right next to Finns, Atlas Beach Club is one of the biggest beach clubs in the world! It can hold up to 10,000 people and has the largest infinity pool in Bali, which overlooks the beachfront.
The party vibe starts in the afternoon and goes well into the night. Depending on the day and events, there’s usually an entrance fee. Atlas also has a three-story nightclub on-site, so whether you’re here to chill or party, it’s the place to be!
Catch a Breathtaking Sunset
Bali’s sunsets are a captivating experience.
They are best enjoyed from a beach club (check the list above), a casual walk along the shore, or sitting on a bean bag zipping on a coconut in one of the many beach bars along Echo Beach, Berawa Beach, or Batu Bolong.
Catch Some Waves in Canggu
Bali is famous for its surf! Before Canggu became the hot spot it is today, it was a laid-back surf town. Surfing is still one of the top things to do in Canggu, as it offers great breaks for all skill levels.
If you’re a beginner, no worries—you can easily take a surf lesson at one of the many warungs by the beach. Locals are out there every day renting boards and offering lessons, with a 2-hour session typically costing around 350k IDR ($25 USD). And if you’re already comfortable on a board, you can rent one for about 50k IDR ($5 USD) for 2 hours.
Most popular Canggu beaches for surfing:
Echo Beach: Usually high tide, it’s better suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. Echo Beach is often crowded during the day, and I won’t recommend it to beginner surfers.
Berawa Beach: Has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to other beaches in Canggu (although everywhere is pretty crowded nowadays). You can expect moderate waves that are perfect for intermediate surfers.
Batu Bolong Beach: Also known as Old Man’s after the bar in front of it, is one of the easiest surf breaks in Canggu. It is where many beginners take surf lessons. You will find many rentals all along the beach.
Pererenan Beach: This black sand beach has left and right-hand breaking waves, making it a favorite spot for diverse levels of surfers.
Indulge in Canggu’s Cafés – They’re a Vibe!
Canggu’s café scene is a thing. We’re talking delicious coffee, baked goods, big all-day breakfasts menus, healthy fresh food—plus, all at super reasonable price!
These spots aren’t just about great coffee—they’ve got the perfect ambiance, mouthwatering food, and that laid-back, bohemian vibe you’re after.
Whether you’re craving a perfectly brewed Italian espresso, searching for a cozy place to get some work done, or just want a healthy, flavorful meal, you’ll find everything you need to fuel both your body and your Instagram feed.
Here are some cafés to add to your list when in Canggu:
The Shady Shack: a vegan’s paradise! This café has a big menu with an all-day breakfast, healthy drinks, and inventive vegan dishes and desserts.
Baked: True to its name, Baked has a menu of soft and crunchy baked goodies, fresh coffee, and other breakfast dishes. With multiple locations (Berawa, Pererenan, and Seminyak).
Neighbourhood Food: Fresh and simple, enjoy a slow, Australian-inspired breakfast.
Motion Cafe serves fitness folks, vegans, and the gluten-free crowd. If you want a delicious smoothie bowl, salad, and protein-rich meals, try Motion Cafe.
Blacklist Coffee: This award-winning roastery serves delicious coffee made from beans roasted in-house, along with hearty Aussie meals.
Yema Kitchen:This great spot functions as a boutique-style cafe with delicious meals, coffee, and baked pastries.
Revolver: A favorite in Canggu! This cafe produces its coffee beans and has a restaurant that serves breakfast all day.
Get a Massage (or five)
I’m not joking when I say five. Massages in Canggu are probably more affordable than anywhere else in the world!
You have two options: First, the local Balinese spas, which are super cheap (around 120,000 IDR for a 60-minute massage or $8 USD), but the venues are quite basic. Or, you can opt for a nicer, top-notch spa. These modern spas are pricier, but still very affordable—usually around 350,000 IDR ($25 USD) for a 60-minute massage.
Here are the best spas in Canggu:
AMO Spa
AMO is very loved among visitors thanks to its diverse spa services, outstanding facilities and very centric location. It’s not just a place for massages; the spa boasts a fantastic recovery area equipped with an ice pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, and a lounging area. They also have a cafe/restaurant and a shop.
Spring Canggu
When you enter Spring Canggu, with its white decor and beautiful architecture, you know you’re in for the best treatments. They offer a wide range of services, everything from traditional Balinese massages to modern beauty treatments.
Therapy Spa
Great massages with beautiful facilities for a midrange price. Enjoy their extensive spa menu at good prices.
Espace Spa
Espace Spa is my go-to for a truly exceptional massage—yep, the secret’s out! What I love about them is the unique touch in their techniques, which always leave me feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Plus, the modern, stylish setting makes the whole experience even more special.
Shop ‘Til You Drop in Canggu
Canggu is a paradise for shoppers on the hunt for handcrafts, trendy styles, and affordable prices. From charming boutiques to stores selling knockoffs, to vibrant markets, Canggu offers a little something for every shopper.
The best street for shopping is Batu Bolong, the heart of Canggu. However, you’ll also find shops lined up around Eco Beach, Pererenan, and Berawa, just be prepared to haggle!
If you are looking for markets to buy unique souvenirs, home decor, handmade jewelry, organic products, and artisan goods, these are the best markets in Canggu:
Samadi Market
Samadi is a Sunday market, from 9 am to 2 pm. The market primarily offers eco-friendly products, from fresh goods, to locally made artisan goods and unique crafts. Besides, they have a cafe selling vegan food and yoga classes all day.
La Brisa
This market is also only opened on Sundays. It’s a farmers’ market set in a beautiful beach club. They sell a variety of goods, including organic food, handmade crafts, unique clothing, jewelry, wellness products, and much more. They are located right next door to another large local market called “Canggu Center” that sells souvenirs and various local products.
Love Anchor Market Canggu
Love Anchor Market has a mix of outdoor and indoor shops that sell clothing, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. Open every day of the week!
Visit Tanah Lot Temple at Sunset
If you’re looking to experience Bali’s rich local culture while in Canggu, Tanah Lot Temple is the best option in the area. Located just north of Canggu, this Hindu temple is perched on a dramatic rock formation in the sea. The best time to visit is during sunset, when you can enjoy breathtaking views as the sky changes colors, along with a traditional dance performance that showcases Balinese culture.
Do note that Tanah Lot can get quite busy. Bali is home to many other temples that are equally stunning and offer a more tranquil, authentic experience if you’re looking to escape the crowds.
Experience the Best of Dining Out
From Balinese cuisine to fresh seafood, Italian, Mexican, vegan, and everything in between!
As a self-proclaimed foodie with years of exploring and indulging in the local restaurant scene, I’ve put together a list of the best spots for dinner in Canggu. I’m so passionate about the food here that I even dedicated an entire separate article to it—trust me, once you try it, you’ll feel the same way!
And if you’re looking for an extra-special night out with an unforgettable meal, be sure to check out my guide to the best fine dining restaurants in Bali.
Explore the Vibrant Nightlife
With the exception of Sol Rooftop, Times Beach Warung, and Le Bajo, all the beach clubs mentioned above host parties, so this is a good place to start.
But if you’re looking for more, nightlife in Canggu is a wild experience, with not only beach clubs, but also bars, nightclubs, hidden speakeasies, creative cocktails, international DJs, and never-ending events.
From restaurants that turn into parties, to massive beach clubs with top DJs, and after parties that go on until the early hours of the morning, Canggu will not disappoint if you’re looking to party.
Here are the best spots to party in Canggu:
Morabito Art Villa
Located in Barewa Beach, Morabito is a big open space venue facing the ocean that hosts big parties featuring electrifying DJs (deep house or electronic).
Miss Fish
In the evening, they serve delicious Japanese food, and at night, it transforms into a nightclub, attracting many of Canggu’s elites and offering an electric nightlife experience. Don’t miss out on the signature cocktails, beats from local and international DJs, and occasional themed events. They’re open until very late—or should I say, until very early?
Luigis
Luigis’ lively atmosphere, buzzing crowd, their famous metre-long pizzas, craft beer, and good music keep the party going.
Old Man’s
One of the oldest party venues in Canggu, this beachfront beer garden hosts live music and late-night parties every day of the week.Old Man’s also has regular special events.
Finns and Atlas Beach Club
Once the sun sets, both of these beach clubs transform into vibrant nightlife hubs, offering great beats, refreshing drinks, and plenty of fun!
Mexicola
Inspired by the vibrant spirit of Mexico, Mexicola features colorful decor, upbeat music, and an electric atmosphere that comes alive at night. Enjoy some tacos, cold beers, tequila, and dancing! Not to be confused with the one in Seminyak.
Black Sand Brewery
Pub environment with a relaxed, upbeat vibe, making it the perfect spot to enjoy craft beers and various imports. With spacious indoor and garden areas for dining and drinking, it’s an ideal place to hang out. Good food. Good beer. Good people.
Desa Kitsuné
One of the newest and most exciting additions to Canggu’s nightlife scene, quickly becoming known for hosting some of the biggest parties in town. This massive venue features two restaurants and a spacious outdoor pool area (where you can relax during the day). With sleek design, cutting-edge sound systems, and unforgettable parties and events, it’s a standout spot for both dining and nightlife.
Playroom Bali
Playroom is a nightclub located inside a sports bar—though not just any sports bar, this one boasts a massive 200-inch mega screen! Playroom offers electric nights every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, featuring state-of-the-art visuals with wrap-around screens, cutting-edge sound systems, a vibrant atmosphere, themed nights and special events.
Canggu is a Yoga and Fitness Paradise
Bali is one of the top destinations in the world for yoga, and it also has a thriving fitness community. So, you can expect large sports centers and everything fitness-related, from tennis and padel courts to CrossFit, Muay Thai, martial arts, golf, indoor rock climbing, and top-notch recovery centers.
Body Factory
Body Factory has one of the most advanced gym equipments in Canggu, they also have an assortment of classes, and when you’re done with your workout, you can head to the stunning pool and recovery area.
Nirvana Life Fitness and Wellness Club
One of my favorite wellness centers in Bali, Nirvana is an all-in-one facility that has everything you need. It has a gym, an amazing recovery area, and a full schedule of classes, from Pilates and yoga to strength-based and calisthenics classes that also focus on mobility and flexibility. They also have a restaurant, a café, a coworking space, and a huge chill-out area with a large pool.
CrossFit Wanderlust
For all the crossfiters out there, Wanderlust is the largest CrossFit gym in Bali, with some of the best gym equipment and a big community. This gym also offers yoga, a recovery area, and a cafe offering healthy food.
Bali MMA
Bali MMA has an excellent reputation for being the best mixed martial arts academy in Indonesia and one of the best MMA gyms in Asia!
When it comes to Yoga in Canggu
The variety of yoga studios in Canggu is incredible, with beautiful spaces offering every type of yoga you can imagine. As someone who practices and teaches yoga, I, of course, had to dive deep into this topic. For a more detailed look, refer to my article Best Yoga Studios in Canggu, where you’ll find a list of the top studios to visit based on your interests.
Day Trips from Canggu
Bali is so diverse and big, and one of the best ways to make your holiday even more incredible is by stepping outside of Canggu. Want to add a bit of adventure to your Bali holiday? Take a day trip to discover Bali’s scenic spots:
Go beach hopping in Uluwatu
Uluwatu is well-known for its stunning beaches, which are much better than those in Canggu. With crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores, it’s the perfect place to surf, relax, or catch a breathtaking sunset. You can also explore the many cafes and restaurants, enjoy one of the beach clubs perched on the cliffs, or visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple. If you have the time, I definitely recommend spending more than just one day here.
Hike to the summit of Mount Batur
If you’re into hiking, this one’s for you. It’s easy to get there from Canggu —it takes about 1 hour 45 minutes by car, and the trek starts early (around 2-3 AM) to catch the stunning sunrise. It’s a moderate climb, taking about 2 hours. Along the way, expect breathtaking views and unique volcanic landscapes that make the early wake-up call totally worth it!
Go swimming in the Munduk waterfalls
Arrange a tour to Munduk to experience its beautiful waterfalls. I recommend heading out early to visit the four main waterfalls in the area, including Munduk Waterfall, Melanting Waterfall, Golden Valley Waterfall, and Red Coral Waterfall. You can also stop by the Twin Lakes Viewpoint for stunning views.
Visit Seminyak and Kuta
Seminyak and Kuta are just a 20-30 minute drive from Canggu (depending on traffic). They are popular tourist areas offering large resorts, big malls, high-end restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches.
Multiple Day Trips From Canggu
Contrary to what many think, Bali is not a small island, but a large one with so much to explore. It would be a shame not to take a few days to visit other parts of the island, each offering unique scenery, experiences, and activities. Here are some top destinations and activities for multi-day tours from Bali.
Ubud
Ubud is about an hour away from Canggu by scooter, a little more by car depending on traffic. It’s the perfect place to explore Bali’s nature and rich culture, with attractions like waterfalls, rice paddies, temples, the Sacred Monkey Forest, and bustling local markets.
Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan
These islands to the southeast of Bali boast dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and impressive marine life that appeal to travelers seeking adventures like scuba diving and snorkeling, or to those looking for a quieter, small-island vibe holiday. You can reach Nusa Lembongan by a 30-minute speedboat from Sanur, and take a 10-minute boat transfer to nearby Nusa Penida.
Komodo National Park
This one’s a bit more complicated, but trust me, it’s 100% worth it. To get to Komodo National Park from Canggu, you’ll need to fly to Labuan Bajo, and from there, take a boat tour, usually lasting 2–3 nights. It’s a trip in itself, so you’ll need a few days to really take in the scenery. The beaches, the marine life, the hikes, and of course, the Komodo dragons—it’s all just so so incredible!
