Canggu is a hot spot on the must-visit Indonesian island of Bali that is known for its laid-back vibes. The area sits beachside and pulls in many surfers, expats, yoga lovers and digital nomads.
But relaxing isn’t the only thing you have to do here, there are still plenty of things to do in Canggu to keep you entertained.
This trendy spot is quickly becoming the place to visit in Bali (in fact it already is). It’s not yet as luxurious and expensive as spots such as Seminyak or Uluwatu but it has something for everyone. You can find high-end spas, backpacker hangouts and accommodation for all budgets.
A trip to Canggu needs to be in your Bali itinerary if you’re craving some relaxation time, love cafe culture and if you want to experience Balinese culture with your western comforts still close by.
Between your favourite cafes and stunning villas there will be rice paddies, temples and street food to give you a taste of the local life here.
Come here if you’re looking for chill and relaxed time and find out what to do in Canggu during your stay!
All prices are quoted in Indonesia rupiah. Check up to date conversions here.
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Things to do in Canggu
This mega list of Canggu things to do will keep you busy if you’re visiting on vacation or living in the Gu’ as long termers love to call Canggu.
Hit up the beaches
Canggu is known for being a place to just chill out and relax so obviously the beaches are popular.
There are three main beaches in Canggu and they are all black sand beaches: Berawa, Batu Bolong and Echo Beach. I tend to avoid Batu Bolong as it’s the most touristy of the three and the most expensive for lounge chairs (50,000).
Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on one of the lounge chairs or grab one of the beach bags which are free so long as you buy something. Expect to pay 20,000 for a coconut, 25,000 for a beer and food ranges from 30,000-70,000.
See what the hype is about at Old Man’s
A visit to Canggu is simply not complete without stopping by Old Man’s which is the bar in Canggu. Different music is played each night but Wednesday’s are the biggest party night by far. Expect beer pong, people dancing on tables and club music.
But even if you’re not a party person I still recommend checking out Old Man’s, during the day it’s a chill place just off of Berawa Beach and some nights live music is played. The place is big enough that you can lounge and chat or be by the speakers jumping on the dance floor.
Eat at every cafe possible
I hate putting eating as a thing to do anywhere but in Canggu eating is a really big deal! Cafe hopping is definitely among the best things to do in Canggu.
Seriously, you’ll be spoiled with the number of cafes around and may even be overwhelmed with the number of choices. Breakfast/brunch is the best (but also my favourite meal so I may be biased).
Many cafes and restaurants have beautiful scenery overlooking rice fields, leaving you totally relaxed after your meal. You’ll find mostly western food that is absolutely delicious from smoothie bowls, to salads, plenty of avocados, to burgers, Mexican and more!
READ MORE: Where to Find the Best Canggu Restaurants
Visit the famous Tanah Lot
If there are any Canggu attractions then Tanah Lot is really the only one. It is one of the most iconic sites in Bali and has cultural significance for the locals.
It’s an ancient Hindu temple that sits perched on a rock that is eroding but its what makes this temple so beautiful to see and photograph. Its full name is Pura Tanah Lot and means land in the sea.
To visit grab yourself a scooter as it’s about a 20-minute drive from Canggu on easy paved roads. Affordable transfers are also available for those who prefer not to drive. Expect lots of tourists as it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bali. At the time of writing the entrance fee is 60,000 and parking is 3,000.
Get your surf on
Canggu is famous for surfing and being here you’ll definitely feel the relaxed surfer vibes. Great waves can be caught on all of the beaches in Canggu and the surf break is close to the beach so you never have to swim far out to catch a wave.
Berawa Beach is a great place for beginners, avoid Echo Beach if you’re new to surfing or get a surf lesson.
Boards can be rented at many places along the beach and a board costs 50,000 per hour. If you’re bringing your own surfboard scooters can be rented that have racks to hold surfboards.
Night surfing is also available at Finn’s Beach Club.
Watch sunset every day
Bali sunsets are notoriously amazing so you should make a point of seeing sunset every day, the colours are seriously amazing.
The beach is the place to go to watch sunset, where you can grab a bean bag on the sand and a beer from one of the local bars that line the beach and watch one of the top things to do in Canggu.
My personal favourite spots on the beach are O’Three on Echo Beach or Kokoloco on Berawa Beach.
If you want a little more luxury be sure to catch the sunset at La Brisa, La Laguna or The Lawn.
Take a jewelry-making class
When it comes to learning how to make jewelry Bali was definitely not one of the top places I thought of for taking a class. What I learned is that jewelry making is actually quite popular in Bali and there is a shop in Canggu that offers half and full day classes so you have the chance to take home a piece that you personally made.
Isn’t it just the perfect souvenir?
I took a half-day class at Canggu Jewelry Classes and made a stamped pendant for a necklace (see the picture above) and was guided through the entire jewelry-making process which was a fascinating experience and has me wanting to make my own jewelry line.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary half-day class for myself and a friend.
Get a sweet scoop at The Creamery
Serving up drool-worthy sundaes, milkshakes, ice cream sandwiches, nitro ice cream and frozen yogurt, The Creamery is a super cute (and sweet) spot to check out while in Canggu. Seriously, I can not tell you how adorable this place is, I mean, just look at the picture!
Hangout at a rooftop pool
If you’d rather relax on a rooftop without the sand but still have views of the water then head to Ashton Canggu Beach Resort. Not far from Batu Bolong Beach, this hot spot is not super known but is totally worth checking out.
If you have a scooter park in the underground parking (it’s free), make your way up the stairs and then take the elevator to the 5th floor. There you’ll find a bar, lots of lounge chairs, swings and a cute ‘Love Canggu’ sign. I was never asked to buy anything!
Relax, breathe and do yoga
Canggu’s relaxed vibe is not just from the surfers but also all of the people who come here for yoga. There are a number of popular yoga spots that are worth checking out for classes which range from 100,000-150,000, with drop-ins being more expensive and 5-10 class passes making each class cheaper. Check out where to practice yoga in Canggu, the top studios and more in the Canggu yoga guide.
Canggu is also home to a number of yoga retreats, some that include surfing, some for detoxing, some fitness. Whatever it is that you enjoy, there is certainly a Canggu yoga retreat that will suit your needs and wants!
READ MORE: 11 Best Yoga Retreats in Canggu and Beyond
Get in a workout (or two)
I know, I know, Canggu is the place to relax but it’s also where a ton of digital nomads live or have made their permanent home so there are seriously a ton of places to workout. Whether you’re into CrossFit, just want a regular gym, dance classes, boxing, circuit training…you will find it in Canggu.
Some of the most popular gyms worth checking out are:
Hit up a market
I don’t know about you but I love hitting up a good market when in Southeast Asia. Sure, half of the stuff is stuff that you’ll see elsewhere but you can always find gorgeous gems to add to your jewelry collection or an adorable handmade purse.
Markets that you can find in Canggu include:
- Samadi Bali Sunday Market: Held every Sunday from 9-2. You can find organic food and local artisans.
- Love Anchor: This bazaar is open every day right in the heart of Canggu on Batu Bolong. Monday-Friday there are 100 vendors and on weekends there are more than 150 selling something for everyone.
- Old Man’s Sunday Market: This market it the largest in Canggu and is held once a month. You can literally find everything from clothes to crafts to food and more.
- Sunday Gypsy Market: The Gypsy Market held at La Laguna is where over 40 vendors sell goods that contribute to an eco-friendly environment. Local artisans and entertainment are available every Sunday after 4PM. As of February 4th, 2019 La Laguna is closed for renovations, visit the website to see if it’s reopened.
Have a totally boho picnic
You’ll have a tough time finding something more perfect to do for a girls get together than a Bali Boho picnic. I mean when you combine a cute set up with snacks (and wine), lush rice fields, sunset as your backdrop and friends you have the ideal girls get together!
I did a picnic with a few of my friends and opted for the rice field restaurant package and was not disappointed with the views, decor or the food.
But these cute picnics aren’t just for girlfriends, there are also packages for proposals, retreats, weddings, bachelorette parties and kids. Plus you can get this set up in your villa, at a beach club or on the beach (how dreamy!).
Chill out at Alternative Beach Club
Since Canggu was practically made for chilling there’s no shame in taking a day to just relax by a pool on a comfy lounge chair while sipping a cocktail. One of the best places in Canggu to do just that is at Alternative Beach Club.
This place is really relaxed, the water of the pool is vibrantly blue, there’s a swim-up bar, a slide, a swing, an area to jump off of the second floor into the pool, lounge chairs, a sandy area, delicious cocktails and good food. Shall I go on?
Get a free tattoo
Yes, you just read that right. At Deus Ex Machina once a week it is Tacos-n-Tatts Tuesday. While you wait to get a tattoo for totally free you also get to munch on some tacos. Get there early, tattoos start at 5:30 and you want to make sure you get in in time for yours!
The tattoos are only done in black and be sure to have your design ready, obviously, they don’t do very complicated tattoos so keep it simple.
Frolick in the rice fields
One of the joys of Bali is that you don’t have to drive (or walk) far to find the beautiful rice terraces that you’ve seen on Instagram. While Canggu is no Ubud when it comes to rice terraces, there are still plenty that you can pull to the side of the road and walk along or just simply admire the lush green fields.
Check out Finn’s Recreation Club
Perhaps it’s a rainy day or you just want some easy entertainment, Finn’s Recreation Club seriously has it all.
There’s a beach club with live DJ’s, a pool and delicious cocktails for you to spend your day at or watch sunset from. Then at the recreation club slightly inland (there are shuttles between the two) you can find the Splash Waterpark, bowling, a trampoline centre, spa, coworking, a kid clubs, tennis, fitness classes and more.
Spot the best murals
There are many murals around Canggu making this area totally hip. The best way to find them is just to drive around and keep your eyes open (and also on the road)! Some of the most popular are the murals at Old Man’s, a must-visit beach bar near Batu Bolong Beach.
Spoil yourself with a floating brunch
You’ve seen floating brunch before and you wanna know how you can do it too right?
You don’t need to stay in a resort to experience this level of luxury. Head over to Cabina Bali so you can indulge in a delicious breakfast that is served to you in a pool.
The food is good but the location is worth it alone as it’s just so Instagram worthy! Expect to pay around 250,000 and up. And don’t forget to make a reservation.
Go shopping
There is so much shopping in Canggu and quite honestly a lot of the clothes are way cuter than anything I would find back home in Canada! Get ready to spoil yourself on flowy dresses, rompers and a ton of accessories. If you’re a yogi there are also a ton of shops for yoga and workout gear.
Join a coworking space
If you’re on vacation obviously ignore this, but for those who work while abroad then you will be happy to know that not only can you do coworking in Canggu but you also have choices! Here are your options:
Attend a free speaking event
These free events in Canggu are held at some of the coworking spaces and are really great if you’re looking to grow your business, are just starting out or want to improve yourself.
The majority are focused on business-related matters such as Instagram, SEO or Facebook ads but a lot will also focus on improving our mental health, getting ourselves into better routines and understanding ourselves more.
These events are available at Dojo and Outpost and you can find the events on Facebook. Some you need to be a member but most are open to the public.
Indulge at a spa
Canggu is littered with spas just like everywhere else in Asia. So while you’re here why not indulge a little? Spa prices range quite a bit so do a bit of shopping around if you’re on a budget. Pedicures can be as cheap as 75,000 and massages are around 100,000 and up for 1 hour.
Party your heart out
Canggu is super chill during the day and for sunset but there are some serious parties around here!
The most popular spot by far to go out is Old Man’s by Batu Bolong Beach. Here you’ll find everyone from backpackers to surfers, families and girls dressed up in stilettos. Everyone goes to Old Man’s and then to after parties at places such as Sand Bar. Pretty Poison is another popular spot.
Vue Beach Club is a new spot that has opened recently in Bali and it a great spot to party and/or chill.
Eat vegan
Even if you don’t like vegan food, just try it here in Canggu. There are so many restaurants in Canggu that serve up delicious vegan dishes that you may not even think are vegan because they taste that good.
My favourite restaurants for vegan food in Canggu are The Shady Shack and I Am Vegan Babe.
Join a beach clean up
There are a number of organizations in Bali that are very dedicated to getting the island cleaned up and keeping it that way. A great way to give back while visiting Canggu is to help with one such as Ocean Mimic, an organization that has a clean-up every Sunday on Berawa Beach.
Plus as a thank you for helping clean up you get a card with free things such as a cocktail, yoga class and more.
You can find details and the latest time of the cleanups on Ocean Mimic’s Facebook page.
Catch a movie outdoors
There’s something so special about watching a movie under the stars. Luckily, there are a few spots to watch a movie outdoors during the warm Bali evenings. You can watch movies at:
Attend a women’s (or men’s) circle
There is something so special about the people that are drawn to Bali. In 2019 I attended my first women’s circle in Canggu and had an unreal and very eye-opening experience.
Women’s circles focus on opening up, sharing what’s on our mind and can involve burning paper, dancing, meditation and more.
Enjoy live music
Canggu has some great nightlife with plenty of venues offering live music. The places to check out are Deus on Sunday’s, Old Man’s on Friday’s and Gimmie Shelter on Wednesday’s and Saturday’s. Additionally, The Compass and Gimmie Shelter also have open mic nights, Thursday’s at The Compass and Monday’s at Gimmie Shelter.
Try ecstatic dance
Bali has a very large spiritual crowd and with that comes the option to try some new experiences that you may not get to try elsewhere. Ecstatic dance is one of those experiences.
It’s a class where the dancers allow the music to move them and they fully let go to the rhythm. People who participate in ecstatic dance feel more connected to others around them and their emotions.
Take a day trip
If you’re opting to base yourself in Canggu (because you love it so much) then you can still take some day trips to see more of Bali. Here are a few options of day trips that are available from Canggu:
- Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking
- Swim with Manta Rays in Nusa Penida
- Best of Ubud: Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest
- Northern Charm: Lake Bratan, Handara Gate, Waterfall & Swing (easily the most Instagramable places in Bali)
Where to Stay in Canggu
Read my detailed Canggu accommodation guide to find the best places from budget to luxury, hostels to hotels and villas.
Bali Essentials
There are a few things that you will absolutely need while in Bali.
Reef Safe Sunscreen: Yes, Bali has coral and yes, you should be wearing coral safe sunscreen. I’m not here to lecture you on saving the earth and plants, you know that already. This is just a friendly reminder that you can keep you and the waters safe.
Adapter: Obvi. But seriously people always forget. I like to use a universal adapter so if you don’t have one already get one stat and never worry about it again!
Reusable Water Bottle: This is an essential for ANY trip but even more important for Bali because recycling here is not really and thing and when you see the plastic littering this beautiful island you’ll be sad that you’re contributing to the plastic issue. You can fill up your reusable bottle everywhere, there are tons of filling stations at accommodations and restaurants.
Mosquito Repelling Bracelets: These are a thing? Totally! Mosquitoes can get nasty in Bali and unfortunately can carry diseases. This is the healthiest option because they don’t use deet!
Activated Charcoal: This is available in Bali too but when your tummy is not feeling so great and you may need to run to the bathroom at any second you’ll be happy it’s within arms reach. Bali belly (trust me) and these will help you get back to health and enjoying your vacay in no time.
Travel Insurance: Just don’t travel without it, end of story. But if you need more convincing read this.
READ MORE: Bali Packing List for Ladies
How to Get to Canggu
Canggu is on Bali’s southern coast stretching along 10km of beach just north of Kuta. From the airport it is a 45 minute to 1-hour drive. I recommend having a driver arranged in advance because it’s easier and it can be much cheaper than getting a taxi at the airport. You can book a trusted driver for a fraction of the price than at the airport.
Getting Around Canggu
Canggu is not a friendly place to walk as most of the area do not have sidewalks. There are some in Batu Bolong but at night there are minimal street lights, the streets are narrow and it can be dangerous.
I recommend getting a bike (and taking it easy if it’s your first time!). For a single day it should cost 50,000 and you can negotiate for lower depending on how long you’re staying. Expect to pay 700,000-800,000 if you’re staying for a month.
If you’re not somewhere that rents bikes you can also get one delivered to you for a small fee.
When driving in Canggu be aware of the famous Canggu shortcut that is literally a small brick road between rice fields that is notorious for falling apart. Pay attention to what’s happening in front of you and you should be good!
If you’re not comfortable with driving, catching a Go-Jek (an Indonesian app that’s amazing), Uber or Grab is easy if you’re not in Batu Bolong. It’s a cheap option and is safer if you don’t want to drive. If you are trying to get any of these options to pick you up in Batu Bolong they might not as there are many no pick up zones in Canggu.
Lastly, if the comfort of a car is more your style you can arrange transfers within Canggu or from Canggu to all areas in Bali without the hassle of using an app.
With this guide you now have plenty of places to go in Canggu and a number of Canggu activities that will keep you busy for a few days!