Find out where to go and the top things to do in Canggu when on a visit or living in the area…
Canggu is on the West coast of Bali having rich, volcanic, black-sand beaches surrounded by pretty rice paddies. The area is dotted with expat villas with a trendy coffee shop culture where digital nomads hang out.
Originally discovered by surfers, Canggu has become a favourite hangout due to its laid-back vibe and chilled out atmosphere.
Canggu offers a quiet lifestyle, with dramatic views and plenty of amenities, a great place to consider for a relaxing retirement destination.
Along with places like Ubud and Seminyak, people are starting to discover Canggu for its picturesque views, endless activities and fun vibes. While it has developed over time, the town hasn’t lost its charm or laid-back feel.
Here’s a quick list of the things to do in Canggu.
Echo Beach
‘Pantai Batu Mejan’, or echo beach, is a truly beautiful place to kick back, relax with a drink or two and enjoy the stunning scenery and beautiful sunsets.
You can relax in one of the clifftop seafood restaurants and take in the views whilst dining on delicious (and very affordable) seafood.
‘Discovered’ originally by surfers Echo beach is known internationally for its large waves and is a magnet for surfers who like to challenge themselves.
The black sand beach is great for photos, but not really ideal for sunbathing or swimming. A better idea is to head to the far end of the beach where you’ll find the Sandbar, a great place to sink into a beanbag or perch on the rocks out front to enjoy the ocean breezes.
Enjoy an Indonesian massage
Canggu has plenty of spas to choose from. Pop in, ask for prices and see what the setup is. There are some really beautiful spas to choose from, and prices for an hour massage are great value at around USD 15
For a really upmarket Canggu spa experience, check out trendy chain Spring Spa or the wellness retreat at COMO Uma Canggu.
Canggu’s Street Art
In search of something unique to do in Canggu? Check out the town’s street art, starting at ALLCAPS Open Air Gallery.
Street art gives Canggu a real personality, and the giant murals are amazing to see, and if you’re on a budget then this will appeal, being totally free!
The Sunday Market at La Laguna
Wondering what to do in Canggu on Sundays? Head over to La Laguna in the afternoon!
La Laguna is a beautiful bohemian-inspired beach club in the Berawa area of Canggu, and the latest attraction is their ‘Gypsy Sunday Market’.
There’s live music, kids activities, organic food, drinks and stalls selling everything from handmade jewellery and clothes to handicrafts.
Yoga classes in Canggu
No list would be complete without mentioning Yoga, and there are plenty of classes to choose from in Canggu. One of the more popular options is Samadi Bali and for more suggestions there’s also The Canggu Studio, Serenity Eco Guesthouse (where you can stay too) and Pranava yoga.
Prices and styles of yoga vary at all of these, so have a look at their websites in advance, or just pop in and say hi if you’re in the area.
Eating in Canggu
Whether you want interior design chic or a quiet place to contemplate, Canggu has an incredible range of places to relax and dine.
For open rice paddy views you can go to district which also doubles as a great place to work as they have a co-working space upstairs with a good internet connection.
They do a delicious selection of healthy treats too.
The hippy vibe is strong in Canggu, but there is a range of choice, from high-end dining such as at Hotel Tugu, to delicious authentic Indonesian food at Warung Bu Mi on Jalan Batu Bolong .
Canggu is also a centre for healthy food, with coffee shops selling breads, snacks, coffee, smoothies etc… you could try a different type of smoothie every day of the year!
For something a bit different try the Matcha Café, which takes the uses of green tea to a whole new level. Desserts and all kinds of innovative creations to try, all based around green tea. Delicious!
Horse Riding
Take rides on the beach or through the rice paddies. One great place to look up is Royal Sport Horse Bali, a great place to learn to ride for all ages with happy and well-cared for horses in their stable.
Kids camps and birthday parties can be arranged and there’s also a great restaurant too for re-fuelling after your ride.
Finns Recreation Club
With a water park, multiple pools, trampolining, a bowling alley, a gym and spa, a tennis club, and a kids club Finns Club has something for everyone.
It has several different bars and restaurants so you’re totally spoilt for choice.
You can tailor your membership for the facilities you will use with their day pass options, or if you are a frequent visitor you can go for one of their membership options.
Relax at Finns Beach Club
Not to be confused with Finns Recreation Club, there is Finns Beach Club, located on a long stretch of gorgeous white sand beach.
Finns beach club is actually two clubs, one more family oriented and one more for the grownups.
The more grown up VIP Club has a beach-side champagne bar, picnicking on the manicured lawns, luxury changing rooms, a rooftop bar, and high-class dining as well as a world-class beachside pool.
The Finns Beach Club is more family orientated and has a 30-metre infinity pool.
You can rent daybeds and chill all day and relax and watch the spectacular sunsets during the nightly happy hour.
There is a restaurant and sushi bar and three other bars, a resident DJ and plenty of live music to enjoy.
For both club options there is an entry fee which gives you access to a day bed and other inclusions depending on which club and which level of entry you choose. A great place to visit and chill out.
Tanah Lot Temple
Not strictly in Canggu, instead about 12Km away, is Tanah Lot temple.
Pura Tanah Lot (Land in The Sea) is one of the most famous temples in Bali. And is situated on a rocky outcrop 300m off the shore.
Many believe this sacred place protects the island from evil sea spirits, and that is why one of the most important temples in Bali is situated here.
It can get fairly crowded, so the best time to visit is in the morning before any crowds may arrive. (before 9.00am)
Stand on the shoreline with the temple in the background for some amazing pictures, or if the tide is right walk across or a closer look.
The Tanah Lot entry fee is 70,000 IDR, and it takes around 20-30 minutes to get there from Canggu.
10 things to do in Canggu – summary
Canggu is a real gem in Bali, laid back, relaxing but still with plenty to see and do.
If you’re interested in learning about other activities around Bali have a look at our article 10 things to do in Bali for some inspiration regarding how to spend your time here on the island.
