Canggu, the town of surfing, yoga, and vegan food (map). The town where to escape from busy Kuta and Seminyak and just go with the easy flow. I think Canggu might be one of the pioneering places in the world if we’re talking healthy stuff with their collection of vegan and raw restaurants, plenty of exercising possibilities, and spas that will make you as zen as you can be. Don’t worry, you can party till dawn as well. We spent quite a lot of time in Canggu and if there’s one thing you should do it’s surfing. Batu Bolong beach is ideal if you’d like to learn how to surf, but even the pro’s among us can have a few great sessions here or at Echo Beach. However, there’s more to Canggu than just surfing…
Sleeping in Canggu
Bali is a frontrunner in the world of amazing hotels and resorts. Beautiful interiors, infinity pools with stunning views, and exceptional hospitality are the standard, instead of the exception. Just like the rest of Bali, Canggu is scattered with one of a kind accommodations. Our two absolute favorite places to sleep in Canggu are 4Quarters and Desa Seni. Both completely different, but absolutely amazing in the interior, service, and location.
Desa Seni
Desa Seni is just beautiful. They invented the Bali vibe that all of us so desperately want to get into our own homes. The rooms are all antique Javanese homes, beautifully decorated inside out. What Desa Seni is really famous for in the area are its yoga classes which are open to both guests and non-guests. Add the outstanding personal service with an eye for details, and we were sold. Spend your days relaxing at the pool, doing yoga, getting pampered in the spa, or simply just eating. It’s all top-notch.
4 Quarters
4Quarters has four private villas that will make you wanna move in straight away. Located only 300m from Berawa beach and a short scooter drive from Batu Balong, 4Quarters is close to everything you need. The place is decorated with a love for street art and industrialism, which makes it look so cool and unique. With your private pool, not one but two semi-outdoor showers, and the most delicious breakfast menu it’s not easy to even leave the villa. Did I tell you they bake you cookies every single afternoon… I’m sold, I’m moving in for good.
Canggu restaurants
Monsieur Spoon
Monsieur Spoon… you are something special. After months of traveling through Indonesia and getting white bread every single morning, Monsieur Spoon is absolute enlightenment. Freshly baked croissants, pain au chocolate, and any choice of bread you can think of. Don’t get me started on the cakes. I had my birthday breakfast here and did a serious tasting of all of them. Nauseous at the end for sure, but that was the best breakfast ever.
The Slow
The unique interior of this Batu Balong restaurant is reason enough to visit. The way the light falls through their walls is just mesmerizing. They could serve chicken nuggets and you would still feel cool. But thank god, they don’t. Cause they look cool AND cook up great food. Their lamb is something you may wake me up for. But also the ceviche, the octopus and the chocolate pop dessert (Magnum, eat your heart out) are must-tries. For bookings for either sleeping or eating check out their website.
La Barraca
Good wine and good Italian food. La Baracca is like heaven for me. Their pizzas are just a plate of love and happiness. Oh yes, I’m a sucker for Italian deliciousness. This cozy restaurant brings Italy to Bali in all the right ways. Make reservations or get there early, cause it doesn’t matter what day of the week you visit, the place is packed.
Milk & Madu
Best garlic bread ever. Very random to say so I guess, but it has to be said. It’s not the only thing they do well, cause their extensive all-day breakfast menu got quite a few winners on it as well. Milk and Madu is a really relaxed place with good food and very friendly service, which will make you come back several times.
Not to miss in Canggu
Shop a new surfboard
If you’re looking for a new board or just simply wanna drool on beautifully shaped boards then head to Folkore Surf Shop. This surf shop on Batu Balong produces the most stunning retro boards all made to order. While doing this the ocean and the environment are constantly a big priority and taken into account in every process possible. When you buy a board here, they donate water filters to the local community who are in need of clean water. Such a beautiful brand in every way possible and we can’t support brands like Folklore enough!
Rent a motorbike
A motorbike is a must in Bali. To cruise around the island and to escape the traffic jams as much as you can, a bike is your way to go. If you fancy not only a fast ride but also a good-looking one, then MalaMadre is your friend. Old school Hondas, Cafe Racers, and even heavier motorcycles are for rent here, so eat your heart out and flaunt it. Make sure you have your international driving license with you to avoid dealing with corrupt policemen in the Denpasar area.
Surf spots in Canggu
Surf, of course! Whether you have never touched a surfboard in your life or you brought half your quiver to the island, the surf’s up in Canggu. There are several surf spots for different skill levels. Do keep in mind that no matter where you go, it’s a busy lineup. The more advanced among us will appreciate the racey, hollow, waves at Echo Beach. It’s a fast left-hander breaking over some shallow reef, so definitely not a wave for beginners. The slow wave of Batu Balong is the perfect spot for beginners. The wave works best at incoming mid-tide, but be aware of the crowds. The beach break of Berawa is a good spot for intermediates and more experienced surfers, offering a pretty fast lefthander.
Sundowners at The Lawn
Let’s just say it straight away… I love this place. There are many beach clubs in Bali, but not one of them as pretty as The Lawn in Canggu. Once you’ve tasted their espresso martini, you won’t go anywhere else. Fridays are for happy hours from 8 pm till 11 pm.. pizzas, beers, and cocktails two for one! Guess where I’ll be…
Date night at La Laguna
This place is just magical. Whether you go to La Laguna for lunch or for dinner, it really feels like you just walked into a fairytale. The whole bohemian vibe, the fairy lights, the beach view, and the delicious food are all ingredients for an incredibly romantic date night or just an amazing experience with your travel buddies.
Disco dancing at the Sand Bar
The Sand Bar represents a bit of how life should be. When you think everything is closed, just head down to the beach of Batu Balong in front of Old Man’s. Here you can dance the night away with your feet in the sand, a sky full of stars above your head, and a happy bunch of travelers from all over the world. Beers are sold straight from the cool box and the Sand Bar proofs you don’t need a lot to have a great night.
Canggu playground
Hopefully, we helped you out a bit in the playground called Canggu. It’s a great place to settle down for a bit and do day trips to all the surrounding sights. Even if you just want to unwind and reset the mind, Canggu is perfect to get stuck. Get spoiled on food, waves, and friendly vibes, and keep an eye on the website.. cause we sure have to talk about the restaurants here very soon.
Marthe
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Photos by: J. Roeland & M. Barends©
Thanks for the tips! We are going to Canggu next week! Love your blog! 🙂
Thanks so much! Glad we could be of any help.. Have fun in Bali, it’s the best! 🙂
Hi there , our daughter of 9 years old Surf’s in Portugal and we are looking for a surf school in canggu can you advise?!
Thank u
Paulo
Hi Paulo,
Thanks for your message! What a great holiday to look forward to.. Canggu is heaps of fun, especially for surfing! Unfortunately I don’t have any experience with surf schools for children in Canggu, but I’m sure there are plenty of options. I’m sorry I can’t be of any more help! Have a great holiday!
Marthe
A new place which I’ve become actually obsessed with is Pizza Cult in Ubud. Amazing food, great service, such a cute venue and really affordable. Also a great place to bring your laptop and work from!