Canggu, Bali: What you have to do!

Canggu, Bali: What you have to do!

Canggu is one of those places that feels relaxed and busy at the same time. It’s beachy, creative, slightly chaotic, and incredibly easy to like. People come here for the surf, the food, the cafés — and often stay longer than planned.

 

Before it became Bali’s modern hotspot, Canggu was mainly made up of rice fields and small villages. Over the years, surfers, creatives, and digital nomads found their way here, and cafés, beach clubs, and boutique hotels followed. Despite the growth, Canggu still balances between village life and a laid-back coastal lifestyle.

Beach Clubs in Canggu: Sunset, Music & Ocean Views

Finns Beach Club

 

Located right on Berawa Beach, Finns is one of the most famous beach clubs in Bali. Multiple pools, direct ocean views, DJs throughout the day, and a lively atmosphere make this a great spot for sunset drinks or a full beach day. It’s social, energetic, and very Canggu.

 

The Lawn

 

The Lawn feels a bit more relaxed and stylish. Located near Batu Bolong Beach, it’s perfect for late afternoons, cocktails, and sunset sessions with a calmer crowd. Less party, more atmosphere.

 

La Brisa

 

La Brisa is pure character. Built with reclaimed wood and decorated in a bohemian, almost pirate-like style, this beach club sits right on Echo Beach. It’s especially beautiful at sunset and feels effortlessly Bali.

Beaches in and Around Canggu

Canggu Beach

 

A long, dark-sand beach where locals and travellers mix. Great for walks, sunsets, and casual beach time.

 

Berawa Beach

 

Popular for surfing and close to Finns Beach Club. It has a lively but still relaxed vibe.

 

Batu Bolong Beach

 

The heart of Canggu. Surf schools, cafés, and sunset crowds come together here. Perfect for beginners learning to surf.

 

Echo Beach

 

More raw and dramatic, with stronger waves. A favourite for experienced surfers and sunset lovers.

Learn to Surf in Canggu

Canggu is one of the best places in Bali to learn how to surf. Many beaches here have sandy bottoms and consistent waves. Surf schools line Batu Bolong and Berawa Beach, offering lessons for beginners and intermediates.

 

Even if you’ve never surfed before, this is a great place to try.

Love Anchor Canggu

Love Anchor is a small, open-air market in the heart of Canggu. You’ll find souvenirs, jewellery, clothing, beachwear, and handmade items. It’s easy to browse and perfect for picking up something small to take home.

La Brisa Sunday Market

Every Sunday, La Brisa hosts a relaxed market with local products, crafts, food, and music.


Opening hours: usually 10:00 – 16:00 (Sunday)
A nice combination of shopping, food, and beach vibes.

Take a Massage in Canggu

After surf sessions, scooter rides, and walking in the heat, a massage in Canggu is almost mandatory. The area is full of massage salons, from simple street spots to more tranquil spa-style places. Prices are affordable, and it’s one of the easiest ways to truly relax during your stay.

Visit Tanah Lot Temple

A short drive from Canggu brings you to Tanah Lot Temple, one of Bali’s most iconic temples. Built on a rock formation in the sea, it’s especially impressive at sunset when the waves crash around it and the sky turns golden.

 

Yes, it’s popular — but it’s still absolutely worth seeing.

Breakfast in Canggu: A Real Highlight

Canggu is famous for its breakfast and brunch scene. Eco cafés, specialty coffee, smoothie bowls, and creative menus are everywhere.

 

Popular favourites include:
Crate Cafe – relaxed, social, and great coffee
Shady Shack – fresh, healthy, and full of flavour
The Avocado Factory – creative breakfasts with a twist

 

Breakfast in Canggu is not rushed — it’s an experience.

Warungs in the Evening

In the evenings, eating at local warungs is one of the best things you can do. Simple Indonesian dishes, friendly prices, and authentic flavours make these small eateries a must. Canggu also offers plenty of international restaurants if you feel like switching things up.

Accommodation in Canggu

Canggu has fantastic accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to stylish boutique hotels and private villas. Many places offer pools, greenery, and relaxed communal spaces — perfect for unwinding after a day out.

 

It’s a great place to stay a bit longer and truly settle in.

Food Tours in Canggu

Doing a food tour is a great way to discover both local and modern Balinese cuisine. You’ll visit warungs, cafés, and hidden spots while learning more about the food culture and flavours of the area. It’s social, informative, and very tasty.

Transport in Canggu: Good to Know

Transport in Canggu deserves a heads-up.

 

Scooters dominate the streets, and traffic can be very busy, especially during peak hours. Walking is often easier for short distances.

 

One important thing to know: Canggu has two main areas that are not directly connected by small side streets. You often need to go all the way around using the main roads rather than cutting through neighbourhoods.

 

For certain trips — for example heading to beach clubs or restaurants further away — using a Grab taxi is usually the easiest option, even if you have to wait a bit.

 

Patience is key here.

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About the author
Hi! We are Greg & Irene

Two seasoned travelers who are crazy about adventurous journeys. Equipped with a camera and drone, we have been collecting the best travel tips for destinations from all over the world since 2014, and compiling them into useful articles. This way, planning your trip becomes a bit easier and more enjoyable.

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