Cool Canggu: Great Eats, Best Stays, and More

We recently went on a trip to Bali and spent a very relaxing week in Canggu. Needless to say, it’s very easy to see why this spot is a crowd favourite! Here’s a quick guide featuring restaurants, bars, beaches, and Bali hotels we’ve personally visited to help you when you’re planning your holiday.

Canggu in a Nutshell

Located on the west coast of Bali, less than 10 kilometres north of the tourist hub of Seminyak and stretching between Kerobokan and Echo Beach, Canggu is filled with colourful beachfront bars, vibrant shops and cafes, surf-perfect waves, and plenty of Instagram-worthy hotspots. This laid-back coastal village attracts a mix of surfers, digital nomads, yogis, and foodies. It’s the perfect place to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy a tropical paradise with a unique bohemian flair. Because of its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and the growing number of restaurants, cafes, and shops, Canggu has become one of the most popular Bali getaways for tourists in recent years.

Home to a mix of Balinese and expat communities, visitors can experience a blend of traditional Balinese culture and modern Western influences during a holiday in Canggu. While famous for its surf beaches, Canggu also has pockets of picturesque rice paddies, beautiful temples, local markets, and charming villages.

Where to Eat

Ready to explore local flavours? Canggu has a plethora of dining options ranging from fine dining restaurants to warungs (local eateries) where you can find everything from vegan and vegetarian options to fresh seafood and local Indonesian dishes! We’ve rounded up some of the best spots for lunch and dinner, with some photos of our personal favourite dishes.

First up, the wholesome offerings at nüde and the pizza and pasta from Milk & Madu. nüde serves healthy salads and green juices while surprising guests with cheekier and more playful creations. Milk & Madu on the other hand is a wonderful spot for coffee and relaxed dining accompanied by live music, perfect especially if you’re travelling with friends.

We also enjoyed the food and view at Seasalt at Alila Seminyak. This coastal fine dining spot fuses local seafood with Japanese elements while guests enjoy the ocean breeze. Whether you’re seated on the deck or in the shaded but semi-open area, you’ll enjoy expansive ocean views while indulging in the freshest seafood dishes. 

If you’re planning a romantic dinner, you can’t go wrong with the mood at Luma, Billy Ho, or Milu. Billy Ho has a refined atmosphere and bar, serves edgy Asian food, and has a gorgeous ambient mood while Luma feels a bit more relaxed with its outdoor seating and Mediterranean style and menu. Milu channels the lush surroundings of Canggu and gives you views of the rice paddies as you enjoy a fusion of Western and Asian flavours.

What to Do and Local Attractions

First and foremost, Canggu is a surfer’s paradise. With some of the best waves in Bali, it’s no surprise that the beaches here are always buzzing with surfers catching waves. Don’t be shy to try it out though because even if you’re a beginner, there are plenty of surf schools and board rentals to help you get started. 

If you prefer to just unwind and take in the scenery, Canggu is home to several beaches, including Batu Bolong Beach, Echo Beach, and Berawa Beach. You can relax on the sand, take a swim, or enjoy a refreshing coconut while taking in the undisturbed ocean views.

Canggu is also known for its yoga scene. There are several yoga studios scattered throughout the village, offering a variety of styles and classes. You can start your day with a sunrise yoga session overlooking the rice paddies or wind down with a sunset yoga class on the beach. If you’ve always wanted to try out different types of yoga such as vinyasa, hatha, yin, and others, Canggu is a wonderful place to experience them for the first time.

Are you an architecture and history lover? Bali is known for its beautiful temples, and Canggu is no exception, so make sure to spend a day temple hopping. We visited Pura Batu Mejan and saw a couple of other temples during our one-week stay. The Tanah Lot Temple in Tabanan Regency is located nearby (a little over 30 minutes by car) and is one of the most popular and picturesque temples in Bali. This iconic temple is located on a rock formation in the sea, making it a picturesque spot to visit at sunset. 

Canggu also has a thriving shopping scene too, with many boutiques, markets, and shops offering unique clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. You can find everything from handmade jewellery and accessories to surf gear and tropical fashion. Take home a piece or two of local handicrafts and support local businesses when you purchase handmade items you won’t find anywhere in the world!

Canggu also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several beach clubs, bars, and live music venues to choose from. You can dance the night away at Atlas Beach Club, Finn’s or Old Man’s, or enjoy a sunset cocktail and some more relaxed vibes at The Lawn or La Brisa.

Where to stay

During our week-long Bali getaway, we stayed at Villa Sally which is just a stone’s throw away from Milu. Our villa had a generous private pool, spacious living area and fully-equipped kitchen. Our bedroom opened out to the pool, and had a large en-suite bathroom complete with a deep soaking tub and enclosed shower space. It really was a quiet hideaway and we loved it even more after an evening hanging out at the very busy Finns Beach Club.

If you prefer villas too, another one we’d recommend is Ametis Villas which is actually right next to Billy Ho! The villas are spacious and perfect for honeymooners or romantic getaways—like having your own little corner in Canggu.

We also visited the following cool hotels in Canggu and nearby Seminyak: Alila Seminyak where we had lunch at Seasalt, and enjoyed some cocktails by the beach and pool at W Bali Seminyak and COMO Uma Canggu. 

We’ve always loved Alila Seminyak’s design style, and after having spent some time relaxing by the pool and enjoying the ocean view, we love this luxury hotel even more. At COMO Uma Canggu, there’s a more tranquil atmosphere with its lush gardens and walkways lined with tropical gardens. These luxury hotels are perfect for those who want a modern escape while still enjoying plenty of quiet time.

If you like a more energetic vibe throughout your stay though, you’re going to love W Seminyak. From its neon colour palettes to the fun design style in the pool and WooBar’s playful outdoor bean bags and sitting areas, you’ll enjoy the lively atmosphere Canggu is known for.

If you need some advice for your Canggu holiday, let us know – we’d be happy to help you plan your trip.

Image credit: COMO Uma Canggu