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A Mini Guide to Canggu, Bali

Hiking the Camphuan Ridge Walk

I recently returned from a trip to Canggu (pronounced Changgu). I didn’t think it was possible to fall in love with a place before even stepping foot on its soil but I did. Once in Canggu, it didn’t take me long to realize this love was justifiable. It is a laid-back beach town, far enough removed from bustling, and tourist trap ridden Seminyak, yet lively in its own hipster way. Surfing, yoga, beach bars, restaurants, and cafes makes up this charming town. Here’s my mini guide to Canggu to help you along on your visit.

Need to Know

Language: Indonesian, Balinese, and many also speak English

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah

Upon Arrival: Some travelers may be required to obtain a Visa on Arrival, at a cost of $35. If you are a U.S. citizen no visa is required. You will receive a free 30-day entry upon arrival. Check here to see if a visa is required for you.

Getting Around: The fastest way to get around Canggu (or Bali for that matter) is by motorbike or scooter. Understandably, everyone is not comfortable with driving their own motorbike (I’m surely not) and getting from the airport with luggage will likely require something larger, so the next best transportation is by taxi. If at all possible use Bluebird Taxis (they are light blue and has a picture of a blue bird on them). They use certified meters and won’t try to rip you off like some of the others. Another great alternative is Uber. I found they were a lot cheaper than a previous taxi ride I’d taken. Also, taxis are sometimes very hard to come by, especially late at night so Uber may be your best option. Enjoy your first ride, free of charge, on me. Click here for the code.

When to Go: I would imagine Bali is great no matter when you visit, but there are some seasons you should be aware of. Rainy/Wet season is from October-April, and peak times are July and August; as well as, during Easter holidays, and Christmas/New Years (1st week of January).

Where to Stay

Poolside Desa Seni Canggu, Bali www.worldofawanderer.com

I can’t rave enough about how amazing Desa Seni Eco Village Resort is. I mean, the place is a true gem. They have the most friendly and hospitable staff, the food is amazing, yoga is readily available several times a day.

Eat & Drink

One thing is for sure, you will not find a shortage of restaurants, cafes, and/or bars in Canggu. There are tons of them and they’re all so cute you’ll want to try them all! Here are 5 of my favorites:

Old Man’s

You cannot mention Canggu without mentioning Old Man’s. It is the ever popular beach-front bar and restaurant perfect for hanging out with friends after beach bumming or catching some waves at Echo Beach. Wednesday night is the most popular night. I mean, $3 margaritas? You can’t beat that!

 

Lacalita Bar y Cocina

La Calita Bar y Cocina in Canggu, Bali www.worldofawanderer.com

Known for their beef quesadillas, this place and those quesadillas are not to be missed! It was my favorite restaurant in Canggu. This colorful and vibrant restaurant is just a few minutes walk from Echo Beach, the perfect place to stop over for lunch and a midday cocktail.

Marakuja Cafe

Marakuja Cafe Canggu, Bali

Photo courtesy of Marakuja Cafe Facebook page

Atmosphere, atomosphere, atmosphere, is all I can say about this place. The Parisian-style food and decor are both absolutely impeccable. I only ate here for dinner (3 times), but I hear the breakfast is just as amazing!

Swich Sandwiches

Swich Sandwiches Canggu Bali www.worldofawanderer.com

Looking to grab something quick and easy? Serving up healthy and fresh sandwiches and juices, this is your place. You can delight in breakfast sandwiches, vegetarian sandwiches, and/or meat sandwiches. Wash it all down with a fresh smoothie or fruit juice.

Nalu Bowls

Nalu Bowls Canggu Bali www.worldofawanderer.com

Hawaiian inspired and revolving around the surf culture, Nalu Bowls is Bali’s first smoothie bowl shack. These delicious bowls are seriously like eating ice cream for breakfast, but only much much healthier.

See & Do

Canggu definitely has a more laid-back vibe in comparison to bustling Ubud, but there certainly is not a shortage of things to do there. Here are some things I enjoyed while on workation:

  • Yoga at Desa Seni
  • Catching the sunset at Echo Beach
  • A Manifesto Workshop for Creatives with the amazing life coach, Leannah Lumauig.
  • Volunteering with the Bali Life Foundation who empowers disadvantaged communities, specifically children and women
  • Visiting the Tanah Lot Temple at sunset
  • A day trip to Ubud, hiking the Camphuan Ridge Walk, and shopping!
  • Some much needed pampering at Maria Curau Nail Salon & Spa
  • Surfing at Echo Beach and Double Six Beach in Seminyak with Funky Fresh Fins
Yoga Space at Desa Seni in Canggu, Bali www.worldofawanderer.com

Yoga at Desa Seni

 

A young boy from the Bali Life Foundation reading a book

Captured this precious moment while volunteering at Bali Life

 

The views from Maria Curau Nail Salon & Spa

The views while being pampered at Maria Curau Nail Salon & Spa

My full 8-Day Itinerary for Canggu, Bali is coming soon! Sign up (in the side bar) to receive my new blog posts, by email, so you don’t miss them!

A Mini Guide to Canggu, Bali www.worldofawanderer.com

 

  • Annie

    Reading this post made me hungry. I want a beef quesadilla on the beach right now..mmm… Look forward to the full 8 day itinerary!

    September 13, 2016 at 2:13 am Reply
  • mark wyld

    Old Mans sounds like a perfect place to hang out drinking Margaritas and Bin Tang. The fact its close to the beach is even better. Definitely putting this place on my bucket list.

    September 13, 2016 at 3:02 am Reply
  • shayan Naveed

    Bali seems to be a hot place right now. Everyone is talking about it and it is frustrating because I never never visit it – being Pakistani. They actually said they don’t give visas to us.

    This article doesn’t help cuz seems like my type of place too. sigh.

    September 13, 2016 at 7:01 am Reply
  • Sally

    Canggu looks like the most perfect place to relax and unwind. I had no idea it was pronounced Changgu! It’s always interesting to learn something new. And the food looks delish!

    September 13, 2016 at 9:49 am Reply
  • Megan Indoe

    This is great info! We are headed to Bali in a few weeks, although we are not staying in Canggu, even though we considered it! Even though we aren’t staying in the area we do want to make a day trip! Perhaps we will regret our decision! The food you’ve mentioned and pictured looks incredible! We have only heard good things about this area. You also gave great suggestions of what to do and see! Thanks for sharing.

    September 13, 2016 at 10:07 am Reply
  • Christina

    I think I need to visit Bali again. Canggu looks like a lovely laid back spot to get away from a busy life. I’m going to check it out further.

    September 13, 2016 at 10:18 am Reply
  • Christine K

    Thanks for this photographic journey and guide to this part of Bali. Looks like a place that should be on every traveler’s list to that area. I’ll look forward to the upcoming itinerary.

    September 13, 2016 at 11:59 am Reply
  • Plushy

    Will definitely add a quick visit there when we’ll be visiting Bali. Thanks for sharing this guide!

    September 13, 2016 at 2:41 pm Reply
  • Katie from What's Katie Doing? blog

    Looks great, I love the food and activity selection you’ve included!

    September 13, 2016 at 3:36 pm Reply
  • Gareth

    So many great shots here and the food looks to die for. It’s also good to know that there are still parts of Bali not swarmed with tourists. Great find!

    September 13, 2016 at 4:54 pm Reply
  • Hung Thai

    Has everyone gone to Bali and except me? I haven’t actually seriously considered Bali as a destination but every other article I read online is about Bali. Perhaps I should consider it and add it to my list. Thanks for the concise version of your guide. I do appreciate a free visa entry fee 🙂

    September 14, 2016 at 3:28 am Reply
  • Anne

    Nalu bowls sound amazing! I’d love to get a smoothie bowl from there (and I love that it is the first which makes it all the more special)!

    September 14, 2016 at 1:20 pm Reply
  • Kristine Li

    How was the yoga at Desa Sani? I’ve only been to a yoga studio at Ubud, thinking to try out others in Bali the next time!

    April 29, 2017 at 12:46 pm Reply
  • S.W.

    This article is right on time! I am teaching English in Bandung, Indonesia and plan to visit Bali in September.

    June 22, 2017 at 6:59 am Reply
  • KIM

    I am a big fan of your blog. You always write in a way that inspires us to travel and see the world. Thank you very much for that. Greetings from Canada.

    September 23, 2022 at 12:24 pm Reply

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