Canggu, Bali Overview

Offering a laid-back vibe in southern Bali, Canggu is a coastal village home to some of the quirkiest organic vegetarian and vegan restaurants and cafes. Canggu isn’t as touristy as the rest of Bali in the traditional sense. It is ideal mainly for those who wish to enjoy the quiet comforts of a plush homestay, sip wine or cocktails by a private pool or enjoy some music and barbecue with some friends.

A hipster’s paradise, the many affordable and trendy hostels and homestays are found here. While not as grand as those in Kuta or Seminyak, the sandy shores in Canggu have an attractive charm. Surfing and long paddle boarding are quite popular, with surfers rushing to the waves from the wee hours on most days. The black sands of Echo beach are a striking contrast to the blue Indian Ocean and play host to many sunbathers and surfers.

Canggu is an excellent destination for co-working and creativity too. Large and small villas or smart homes decked with spacious rooms, modular kitchens, game rooms, and private pools attract modern-day digital nomads. Large groups of office teams also regularly visit Canggu for the quintessential workation experience that Bali is known for.

Best Time to Visit

Bali has two main seasons the dry season from April to September and the wet season from October to March. July, August and December are the busiest months of the year so you might want to visit Canggu from April through June when there are comparatively fewer people. However, since Bali is close to the equator the weather on the island is generally warm all year round.

Places to Visit in Canggu

1. Echo Beach: Locally known as Pantai Batu Mejan, this beach is the most popular surfing beach of Canggu. For the advance wave riders the reef breaks right off Echo beach is the place to be. Amazing sunsets can be witnessed here while sipping on cocktails and having delectable grilled seafood.

2. Splash Waterpark: Located at the Finns Recreation Club, this is the largest waterpark in Canggu. This aqua park is an ideal family outing spot during summers. It has numerous slides for adults as well as kids. Some of the most enjoyable rides include the giant bowl, crazy creek and the playground with an awesome lagoon.

3. Berawa Beach: This beach is on the edge of Canggu and marks the start of Seminyak. It has the largest lagoon along the whole coastline of Canggu. The sand on Berawa is a mixture of dark grey and jet black. The scenic view and rocky reefs make it a great attraction.

Shopping in Canggu

The largest crowd of shoppers can be found at the Jalan Padang Linjong Street. This street is busy throughout the week since different markets are held here all week long.

Love Anchor Boutique Complex is one such place that is popularly known for its weekend bazaar where you will find local clothing, jewellery items and organic stuff on sale.

Samadi Sunday Market can be a great stop on the way to the Echo Beach. This market is famous for its local food delicacies, fresh and organic fruits, vegetables, coffee, jams, herbs and healthy juices. It is also a great place to buy handicrafts and other home décor at a steal price.

For the people interested in local art Paradise Pictures is worth a stop. This gallery exhibits local artworks and fine art photography that depict the visually stunning scenes of Balinese culture.

Food in Canggu

Every restaurant and café in Canggu has a chilled and hip vibe. This new and upcoming surfer destination offers a large selection of cool dining venues with different setting and styles accompanied by fantastic scenic views. Ranging from artsy French cafes to surf shacks that offer delicious and wholesome breakfast to a calmer spot overlooking the magnificent sea and rocky reef, Canggu has it all.

1. Hotel Tugu is Ji: One of the most popular restaurants at Hotel Tugu is Ji built on a restored three hundred old Bale Sutra temple. This fine dine restaurant represents the exotic beauty of Asia with its Japanese fusion cuisine and a range of high-end wines. Gyazo and Osaka style salads, charcoal grilled seafood and sushi top the menu at Ji restaurant.

2. Panama Kitchen and Pool is the ideal spot for those in search of an idiosyncratic venue. Sit by the pool in sun loungers enjoying the best Mediterranean food.

3. La Mexicana Bali is the best place to try Mexican cuisine. This restaurant with its breezy interiors and timber furniture promises one of the best dining experience in Canggu. The menu features fajitas, tacos with a pork twist, quesadillas and many more sizzling dishes.

Nightlife

Canggu has become Bali’s hotspot and a popular after-hours hangout place that offers a vibrant nightlife experience. Most of the happening places here are literally on the sand where surfers are looking for good music with a cool beer. One such place is the Finn’s Beach Club hosting the best of the international artists playing the loveliest live music.

The Lawn is an airy seaside lounge at Hotel Tugu with a lavish bar menu and the most exotic view. Pretty Poison is a great hipster club. For the best rock and roll vide visit Gimme Shelter, Canggu’s best live music club. Echo Beach Sports Bar, 707 Beachberm Batubelig and Sand Bar are great places for laid back weekend time. All these places serve delicious finger foods.

Tips

1. While visiting the beaches in Canggu, carry extra supplies of towels, slippers and sunscreen.
2. While visiting the markets in Canggu make sure to keep the wallets and other valuables safe.