Looking for things to do in Canggu in 2023? Canggu is one of Bali’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s easy to see why.
The small town has a laid-back surf vibe, with plenty of pristine beaches to relax on and waves to ride. There’s also no shortage of things to do, from exploring rice paddies and temples to indulging in delicious local cuisine.
We’ve visited Canggu three times over the past three years and now feel so privileged to be able to call this little piece of paradise our home.
We get asked many questions about the best things to do in Canggu. In this post we are going to share our Top 11 Things to do in Canggu, Bali.
Let’s go!
Top 11 Things To Do In Canggu
1. Eat Some of the Best Cuisine in Bali
Canggu is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, you’ll find it all here. The local cuisine is a fusion of Indonesian and Western influences, and there’s something to suit every palate.
For a quick bite, head to one of the many warungs (local cafes) for traditional dishes such as nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles). If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, there are plenty of restaurants serving international fare such as Italian, Japanese, and Indian food. And of course, no visit to Canggu would be complete without sampling the fresh seafood on offer. Whether you eat in or take away, you’re sure to find plenty of delicious food in Canggu.
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2. Get Drawn In by the Street Art
The street art scene in Canggu, Bali, is thriving. You can find murals and graffiti all over the village, from the rice fields to the beach. The artists come from all over the world, and they use a variety of mediums to express their creativity. Spray paint, stencils, and wheat paste are all popular choices.
The subject matter of the street art is also diverse. Some pieces are political, while others are simply decorative. No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find something that catches your artsy eye in Canggu.
3. Chill at the Canggu Pool Bars
If you’re looking for a great place to grab some food and/or enjoy some cocktails by the pool, Canggu is the place to be. This hip district in Bali is home to a number of stylish pool bars, each with its own unique atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to relax with a few drinks or mingle with other travelers, you’ll find the perfect spot in Canggu.
One of the most popular pool bars in Canggu is La Brisa, located right on Echo Beach. With its thatched roofs and tropical plants, La Brisa has a distinctly relaxed vibe.
If you’re looking for something a little more lively, head to Finn’s Beach Club, which often has live music and DJ sets. This popular bar can get crowded, but it’s worth checking out for its great atmosphere and stunning views of the ocean.
So whether you’re looking to relax or party, Canggu has a pool bar that’s perfect for you. So make sure to add one (or all) of these spots to your list when visiting this trendy district in Bali.
4. Visit the Tanah Lot Temple
The Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali. The temple is located on a large rock outcropping just off the shore, and it offers stunning views of the ocean.
The temple is also home to a number of sacred snakes, which are believed to have protective powers. Visitors to the temple can take part in a traditional blessing ceremony, and they can also explore the nearby caves and cliffside hiking trails. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual experience or simply want to enjoy the beautiful scenery, the Tanah Lot Temple is definitely worth a visit.
5. Surf’s Up
If you’re looking for some of the best surfing in the world, you’ll find it at the beaches in Canggu. This small town has become a mecca for surfers from all over the globe, attracted by its perfect waves and laid-back atmosphere.
Although it’s possible to surf year-round in Canggu, the best conditions are typically found between April and October. During this time, the water is warm and the waves are consistent. There are many different surf spots in Canggu, so there’s something to suit all levels of experience.
For beginners, Batu Bolong Beach is a great place to start. The waves here are gentle and there’s plenty of space for everyone. If you’re looking for something more challenging, head to Echo Beach or Pererenan Beach. These waves are bigger and faster, but still manageable for experienced surfers. No matter what your level, you’re sure to enjoy the surfing scene here!
Looking for waterfalls? Click here for our complete Bali Waterfall Guide.
6. Catch a Beach Sunset
There’s nothing like watching the sun sink into the sea, turning the sky into a beautiful canvas of oranges and pinks. And when it comes to beach sunsets, Canggu in Bali is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder.
Every day, locals and tourists alike gather on the shore to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The best spot to catch the sunset is at Batu Bolong Beach, where you can relax on the sand and enjoy the view. As the sun sets, be sure to grab a refreshing drink from one of the nearby beach bars. With its stunning sunsets and relaxed atmosphere, Canggu is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the beauty of nature.
7. Shop Til You Drop
Canggu has long been a mecca for shoppers in Bali, thanks to its wide selection of shops and stalls selling everything from beachwear to homewares. However, in recent years the shopping scene has become even more diverse, with a number of stylish boutiques and designer stores opening up.
Whether you’re looking for a new outfit for a night out or some souvenirs to take home, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in this cool little piece of paradise. And with a number of great cafes and restaurants dotted around the shops, you can easily make a day of it. So next time you’re in Bali, be sure to head to Canggu for an enjoyable on-trend shopping experience.
8. Work Out Your Mind and Body
Canggu has quickly become a hotspot for health-conscious travelers, with a wide range of gyms and yoga studios to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a high-intensity workout or a relaxing yoga class, you’ll be able to find it here in this hip and healthy city.
The majority of gyms offer day passes, so you can try out different facilities to find the one that best suits your needs. Many of the gyms also have pools and other amenities, so you can make a day of it. And with plenty of healthy cafes and restaurants nearby, you can fuel up before or after your workout. So whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking to stay active on vacation, Canggu is the perfect destination.
9. Gaze at the Rice Paddies
Though not as impressive as Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, the Canggu rice paddies are worth a visit. They are situated between the villages of Canggu and Pererenan and cover an area of around 2,000 hectares (5,000 acres). Located mostly between these two streets (enter these names into google maps to locate): Jalan Pantai Pererenan to Jalan Raya Seseh.
The rice paddies are terraced and irrigation channels flow between the different levels. The rice paddies are a gorgeous sight, with the different levels of green plants and the flowing water. Take a stroll through the rice paddies to get a closer look at how the rice is grown. There are also several restaurants and cafes located nearby where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the stunning scenery.
10. Participate in a Canggu Beach Clean Up
Canggu is another beautiful beach town in Bali that is unfortunately plagued by plastic pollution. Every day, tons of plastic waste wash up on the shore, polluting the water and harming marine life. However, there are plenty of opportunities for volunteers to help with beach cleanups! These cleanups are usually organized by local NGOs and take place on weekends.
Volunteers can expect to spend a few hours picking up trash, sorting it, and bagging it up for disposal. Not only will you be helping to protect the environment, but you’ll also get to meet new people and enjoy the fresh air. If you’re interested in volunteering, be sure to check out the next beach cleanup organized by Trash Hero Canggu!
11. Check Out a Canggu Market
Every weekend, the streets of Canggu are bustling with activity as locals and tourists alike flock to the weekly markets. The markets are a great place to find fresh produce, handcrafted souvenirs, and delicious street food.
The atmosphere is festive and lively, with music playing and vendors calling out to shoppers. Bargaining is expected, and it’s not uncommon to see people haggling over the price of a piece of fruit or a handmade bracelet. In addition to being a great place to find bargains, the markets are also a great way to experience the local culture. It’s a perfect place to people watch and soak up the laid-back vibe of Canggu.
Best Canggu Markets
- Samadi Organic Sunday Market Canggu
- When? Every Sunday 9am-2pm
- Where? Samadi Bali, Jln. Padang Linjong No. 39, Canggu
- What? Mainly organic foods like fruits, veggies, nuts, spices and more.
- La Brisa Sunday Market
- When? Sunday 10am-4pm
- Where? La Brisa beach club, Jl. Pantai Batu Mejan, Canggu
- What? Organic products, foods, goods, jewelry, clothing etc.
- Love Anchor Market
- When? Everyday 9am to 9pm
- Where? Located on Jln. Pantai Batu Bolong No. 56
- What? Clothing, jewelry, accessories, home decor, swimwear etc.
- Bali Niki Natural Art Market
- When? Everyday 9am-6pm
- Where? Bali Niki Natural Art Market Canggu,Jl. Pantai Batu Mejan, Canggu
- What? Home decor, bamboo goods, handcrafted goods, bali bags, local brands
How to Get Around Canggu
Getting around Canggu can prove to be quite challenging since this trendy town has some of the worst traffic in Bali. There are many options for transportation though. You can rent a self-drive car. Rent a scooter. Use Grab (like Uber) or Gojek (Uber on a scooter) or you can even flag down a taxi.
Conclusion: Things to do in Canggu
Canggu has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to enjoy the sun and surf, explore Balinese culture, or simply relax in luxury. From its world-class beaches to its hipster cafes, Canggu is the perfect place to unwind and recharge. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags for Bali and head to Canggu for an unforgettable experience.