Once a quiet fishing village, Canggu has evolved into one of Bali’s most vibrant destinations, a laid-back paradise where surf culture, digital nomads, and island living blend seamlessly. Located on Bali’s southwest coast, Canggu offers a little bit of everything: beaches, rice fields, hip cafés, world-class surfing, and lively nightlife.
If you’re staying for a few days or a few weeks, here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Canggu.
Things to Do in Canggu
1. Hit the Waves: Surfing in Canggu
Canggu is one of Bali’s top surf destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner looking for lessons, the beaches here offer great waves for all levels.
Best surf spots:
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Batu Bolong Beach – Great for beginners
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Echo Beach – Popular with experienced surfers
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Berawa Beach – A quieter, more relaxed alternative
2. Watch the Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple
Just a short drive from Canggu, Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali’s most iconic sea temples. It’s perched on a rocky outcrop and makes for an unforgettable sunset spot.
3. Chill at Canggu’s Trendy Beach Clubs
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Canggu’s beach club scene is lively and stylish. These spots offer infinity pools, DJs, cocktails, and beachfront vibes.
Top beach clubs to check out:
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The Lawn – Trendy and relaxed, with beanbags and ocean views
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Finns Beach Club – Popular and upscale, great for day-to-night fun
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La Brisa – Bohemian decor and eco-conscious vibes in Echo Beach
4. Café Hop Your Way Through Town
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Canggu is a health-conscious foodie heaven. With countless Instagram-worthy cafés, you can try everything from smoothie bowls to gourmet coffee.
Top picks include:
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Crate Café – Iconic breakfast bowls and minimalist design
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Shady Shack – Vegetarian paradise with rice field views
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Motion Café – Fitness-focused menu with protein-packed meals
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Milk & Madu – Family-friendly with live music on weekends
5. Explore Canggu’s Rice Fields and Villages
Step away from the beach and into the lush rice paddies that frame Canggu’s quieter areas. Rent a scooter or bicycle and explore the backroads for a glimpse of traditional Balinese life.
6. Practice Yoga or Hit the Gym
Canggu is a hotspot for wellness seekers. Whether you’re into yoga, CrossFit, or pilates, you’ll find a fitness space that fits your vibe.
Top studios & gyms:
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The Practice – Renowned yoga studio with open-air classes
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Samadi Bali – Yoga, meditation, and holistic healing
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Wanderlust CrossFit – Perfect for serious fitness buffs
7. Experience Canggu’s Vibrant Nightlife
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Canggu knows how to party. From live music venues to beachfront bars, there’s something happening every night of the week.
Where to go out:
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Old Man’s – A Canggu classic, especially for Happy Hour and Friday parties
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Deus Ex Machina – Motorbikes, live bands, art shows, and tacos
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Sandbar – Post-midnight beach party spot
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Pretty Poison – Skater bar with a built-in half-pipe and DJ nights
8. Browse Local Boutiques and Markets
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Canggu is full of boutique shops and Sunday markets where you can find stylish clothes, handmade jewelry, organic products, and local art.
Check out:
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Love Anchor Market – A daily market with a boho vibe
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Canggu Sunday Market at La Brisa – Local vendors, live music, and eco-conscious shopping
9. Indulge in a Spa Day
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Pamper yourself with massages, facials, and wellness treatments. Bali is famous for its affordable and luxurious spa culture.
Top spas:
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Goldust Beauty Lounge – Known for its 24K gold facial
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Spring Spa – Sleek, modern design with excellent massages
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AMO Spa – Offers everything from mani-pedis to IV vitamin drips
10. Take a Day Trip to Ubud or Uluwatu
While Canggu has plenty to keep you busy, it’s also a great base for exploring other parts of Bali.
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Ubud – Culture, waterfalls, and jungle vibes
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Uluwatu – Surf, clifftop temples, and dramatic beaches
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Seminyak – More shopping and upscale dining, just 30 minutes away
Frequently Asked Questions About Canggu
1. Where is Canggu located in Bali?
Canggu is situated on the southwest coast of Bali, Indonesia, between Seminyak and Tanah Lot. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, depending on traffic.
2. Is Canggu safe for tourists?
Yes, Canggu is generally safe for tourists. Like any travel destination, it’s important to stay alert, especially when driving a scooter or at night. Petty theft can happen, so keep your belongings secure.
3. What is Canggu best known for?
Canggu is famous for its laid-back vibe, surf-friendly beaches, trendy cafes, boutique shops, yoga studios, digital nomad culture, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a hotspot for younger travelers and creatives.
4. What’s the best time to visit Canggu?
The best time to visit is during Bali’s dry season, which runs from April to October. These months offer sunny skies and ideal surf conditions. The wet season (November to March) brings more rain but also fewer crowds.
5. Can beginners learn to surf in Canggu?
Absolutely! Batu Bolong and Berawa Beach are popular surf spots for beginners. There are many surf schools in the area offering rentals and lessons.
6. Is Canggu good for digital nomads?
Yes. Canggu is one of the most popular hubs in Southeast Asia for digital nomads. It offers coworking spaces, reliable Wi-Fi, networking events, and a vibrant community of remote workers.
7. How do you get around in Canggu?
The most common way to get around is by scooter. Traffic can be dense, and sidewalks are limited, so walking isn’t always ideal. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab.
Final Thoughts
The City isn’t just a beach town, it’s a lifestyle destination filled with balance: surf and stillness, indulgence and wellness, tradition and modernity. Whether you’re there to chase waves, catch sunsets, or just find your Bali rhythm, Canggu delivers a unique and unforgettable island experience.
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