Canggu is an effortlessly cool playground on Bali's southern coast, where surf, style, and sunsets collide.
If Bali were a person, Canggu would be the cool, laid-back friend who always knows the best spots to hang out, eat, and, of course, surf. With its endless rice paddies, quirky cafes, buzzing beach bars, and top-notch surf breaks, Canggu has quickly become the go-to destination for those looking to experience Bali with a side of style. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or planning to stay a while, here’s everything you need to know about this trendy seaside town.
Where is Canggu?
Canggu is nestled on Bali’s southwest coast, roughly 20 minutes north of the bustling hub of Seminyak. It’s bordered by the lively town of Kerobokan to the south and the serene, more traditional village of Pererenan to the north. This stretch of coastline offers a perfect blend of laid-back beach vibes, lush rice paddies, and modern conveniences, making it a favourite among expats, digital nomads, and travellers looking for something a bit different from the typical tourist spots.
How to get to Canggu
Getting to Canggu is a breeze, whether you’re coming straight from Ngurah Rai International Airport or another part of Bali. The easiest way to get there is by car or taxi, which will take you about 45 minutes to an hour from the airport, depending on traffic. You can easily find taxis at the airport, or better yet, arrange a private transfer for a hassle-free ride.
If you’re coming from another part of Bali, like Ubud or Uluwatu, you can hire a car with a driver, rent a scooter for a more adventurous journey, or even use a ride-hailing app like Grab or Gojek. Just remember that Bali’s traffic can be unpredictable, so plan accordingly.
The different areas of Canggu
Batu Bolong: Batu Bolong is the beating heart of Canggu, where laid-back beach vibes meet a buzzing social scene. It’s a place where you can start your day with a sunrise surf, grab a smoothie bowl at one of the trendy cafes, and spend your afternoon exploring boutique shops filled with boho treasures. As the sun sets, the area transforms into a lively hub of beach bars and restaurants.
Berawa: Berawa is the bridge between the buzz of Canggu and the luxury of Seminyak, serving up the best of both worlds. It’s where you’ll find stylish beach clubs, top-notch eateries, and a surf scene that’s just the right mix of mellow and exciting. Whether you’re hitting the waves, brunching in style, or simply lounging by the beach, Berawa’s got the perfect balance of laid-back vibes and upscale living.
Pererenan: Pererenan is like Canggu’s chill older sibling—less hustle, more zen. Nestled just north of Canggu, this coastal gem offers a quieter escape with all the charm. Think empty beaches, lush rice fields, and an authentic Balinese village vibe that’s a breath of fresh air. It’s where you go to slow down, soak up the sunsets, and find peace in Bali’s natural beauty.
Seseh: Seseh is Bali’s best-kept secret—a sleepy coastal village that feels worlds away from the crowds. With its unspoiled beaches, traditional Balinese charm, and a pace that’s refreshingly slow, Seseh is the place to disconnect and unwind. It’s the Bali of your dreams, where the only sounds are the waves and the occasional rooster crowing in the distance. If you’re after tranquillity with a side of authenticity, Seseh is calling your name.
What to do in Canggu
Surf’s up!
Let’s start with the obvious—surfing. Canggu is a surfer’s paradise, with waves for everyone from complete beginners to seasoned pros. Batu Bolong is your spot if you’re just starting out—its mellow waves make it perfect for learning. If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging, head over to Echo Beach, where the waves are punchier, and the surf scene is a little more hardcore. Don’t worry if you’ve never surfed before; there are plenty of surf schools around to get you standing up in no time.
Café culture galore
Canggu isn’t just about catching waves—it’s also about catching up over a great cup of coffee. The café culture here is on point, with quirky spots offering everything from cold brews to smoothie bowls. Whether you’re after a quick caffeine fix or a long, lazy brunch, Canggu’s cafes are where you’ll find the perfect balance of healthy bites and indulgent treats. Crate Café is a local favourite, serving up Instagram-worthy dishes that taste as good as they look, while The Shady Shack is your go-to for plant-based goodness.
Shop ‘til you drop
If you love shopping (and who doesn’t?), Canggu’s boutique scene will have you swooning. The streets are lined with stylish shops selling everything from boho-chic fashion to handmade jewellery and surf gear. Love Anchor is a must-visit—this open-air bazaar is packed with unique finds that make for the perfect Bali souvenirs. And let’s not forget the weekend markets, where you can score everything from organic skincare products to artisanal crafts, all while sipping on a fresh coconut.
Beach clubs & sunsets
No trip to Canggu is complete without soaking up the vibes at one of its iconic beach clubs. Finns Beach Club is the place to be if you’re after sun, sea, and cocktails with a side of epic tunes. With multiple pools, bars, and dining options, you could easily spend an entire day (and night) here. For something a bit more laid-back, head to The Lawn, where you can lounge on bean bags with your toes in the sand while sipping on a refreshing cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon.
How much will I spend in Canggu?
Canggu is as flexible as your yoga instructor when it comes to budget. Whether you’re a backpacker on a shoestring or a traveller with a taste for luxury, Canggu caters to all.
For accommodation, budget travellers can find a comfy bed in a hostel for as little as IDR 150,000 per night, while those looking for a bit more privacy can rent a villa or stay in a boutique hotel, with prices ranging from IDR 1,000,000 to IDR 5,000,000 per night. If you’re feeling fancy, there are plenty of luxury resorts where you can splurge on all the bells and whistles.
When it comes to food, Canggu offers a smorgasbord of options. You can grab a meal at a local warung for around IDR 30,000, or dine in style at one of the many trendy restaurants for anywhere between IDR 150,000 to IDR 500,000 per person. And if you’re into coffee and snacks, budget around IDR 50,000 to IDR 100,000 per visit to one of the many cool cafes.
As for getting around, renting a scooter will set you back about IDR 90,000 per day, while car rentals start at around IDR 300,000 per day. If you prefer taxis or ride-hailing apps, expect to pay IDR 40,000 to IDR 100,000 for short trips around town.
Why Canggu should be on your Bali itinerary
Here at Honeycombers, we’re all about finding the best spots to eat, play, and stay, and Canggu ticks all the boxes. It’s the kind of place where you can surf in the morning, shop in the afternoon, and party into the night, all without ever leaving the neighbourhood. Whether you’re a digital nomad setting up camp for a while or just passing through on your Bali adventure, Canggu’s laid-back charm and vibrant scene will have you coming back for more.
So, pack your bags, grab your surfboard, and get ready to fall in love with Bali’s coolest coastal town. Trust us, once you’ve experienced the magic of Canggu, you won’t want to leave…
