OnBali

Things to Do in Canggu

Canggu, a coastal village on the southwest coast of Bali, is a former surf town turned digital nomad haven and Bali's most popular destination. Just ask any seasoned world traveler about Bali's most iconic area, and you'll find that everyone is talking about Canggu.

Once a sleepy village, Canggu is now bustling with travelers worldwide and a must-visit spot when you step on the island. For good reason, actually. Whether it's the year-round good waves of its 10 km-long beach or the endless list of cafes, bars, restaurants, spas and clubs. Whatever it is, Canggu has officially secured itself on every itinerary on the island. You might find yourself asking where to go first, but don't worry — to help you get around the area, we’ve put together the best things to do in Canggu!

Best Canggu Accommodations

Much like the combination of the popularity of Seminyak and the luxury of Nusa Dua resorts, Canggu accommodation gives you a wide range of options to suit your needs. Whether you like to wake up by the beach and take a short walk with the sunrise or prefer a more tranquil setting with rice paddies as your surroundings, accommodation in Canggu offers it all.

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Best Restaurants in Canggu

Being the most popular area of the island and with so many tourists visiting on a constant basis, the culinary scene in this coastal area is dotted with local to world-class restaurants. It’s easy to find one based on your current mood. French pastries, Italian pizza, Indonesian Nasi Campur — the possibilities are endless!

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Best Spa in Canggu

Being in a busy area with heavy traffic may quickly sap your energy and leave you exhausted. Recharge with a gentle Balinese massage or spruce up your look with a mani-pedi, and facial — Canggu Bali has it all!

What to Do in Canggu

As a coastal area with 10 km of coastline, activities in Canggu are certainly not far from surfing, sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle build-up for the kids. However, digital nomads have their favorite activity: jogging through Canggu's rice paddies. Early in the morning, you'll see many people in their chic workout sets out to catch the rising sun before stopping by a hype cafe to grab a cup of coffee and an avo toast or croissant for breakfast. While there are still so many options available, let's talk about all the fun things to do in Canggu!

1. Surfing at Batu Bolong Beach

A beach day is a must when staying in Canggu,and don't forget to surf while you're here! Batu Bolong is one of the most famous surf spots in Canggu. The consistent waves, the surf schools to be found, and the bars lining the area make it an absolute highlight.

Surfers on Batu Bolong Beach during the sunset

2. Visit the Iconic Tanah Lot Temple

Bali is loaded with amazing temples, as you know. Lucky for you, one of Bali's most famous temples is only about a 20-minute drive from Canggu! Tanah Lot is famous for its temple that sits on a rock as if it is floating in the middle of the sea. Plus, this temple is stunning at both sunrise and sunset! Arrive early to avoid the crowds.

The tourists near Tanah Lot Temple in Canggu

3. Explore Canggu’s Art Galleries

Luckily, there are many art shops and galleries in this bustling area. Their wares range from paintings to mini statues, crafts made from shells, chandeliers, and more. You can explore a bit while looking for souvenirs you want to bring back to your home country.

Contemporary Art Exhibition at Canggu Art Gallery

4. Sunset at Echo Beach

There's nothing like a Bali sunset, and Canggu is one of the few spots on the island to enjoy a gorgeous one! Pick out a spot around Echo Beach lined with cafes where you can grab a Bintang and chill out.

Echo Beach in Canggu during the sunset

5. Experience Canggu’s Nightlife

Nightlife and Canggu are inseparable. Over the past few years, Canggu has secured its crown as the best party spot on the island, beating Kuta to the punch. Whether you want to dance by the beach, indoors, or on a rooftop bar, Canggu makes your dreams come true!

DJ at a party in a nightclub in Canggu

6. Explore Canggu’s Shopping

Yes, girls, I'm putting on your favorite activity too! With so many cute boutiques and island-born brands available, there's always something to shop for in Canggu. From boho sandals, flowy skirts, and bikinis to dainty jewelry, Canggu's stores have everything you need to keep you looking fabulous!

Woman is shopping at one of the markets in Canggu

7. Take a Horseback Ride on the Beach

Ha! I bet you didn’t see this coming. You can do horse riding by the beach in Canggu, even with your little one too (they can ride a pony). Bali horse riding offers two options of 30-minute to 60-minute horse rides. They have two sessions to choose from: the morning session at 8.30, 9.30, and 10.30 am, and the afternoon session at 1.30 pm. 14.30, and 15.30 pm.

The family is riding the horses on Canggu beach

8. Cycling Through Canggu’s Rice Fields

Canggu, an area famous for its waves, also boasts rice paddies with paved roads where you can enjoy a good bike ride. If you do it in the early morning, you might also bump into many tourists and locals out jogging in the area while catching the sunrise.

The woman is cycling through Canggu’s Rice Field

9. Exploring Berawa Beach

Berawa Beach is one of the last stops in Canggu for surfers, especially for those who prefer to steer clear of the crowded beaches in the south. Take a leisurely day to explore this beach. Expect calming views as the sun sets and some of the area's quirky bars and chill-out spots.

Berawa Beach full of tourists during the sunset

10. Indulging in Samadi Bali’s Wellness Market

Samadi is one of Canggu's most popular Sunday markets, located just a stone's throw from Echo Beach. The market is an initiative of Samadi Bali, a yoga and wellness center on Canggu’s Padang Linjong. You’ll find a lot of handmade crafts, local wellness products, and fresh organic produce from local farmers.

Indonesian vegetable vendor at a market in Canggu