Canggu is Bali’s newest hotspot. A pocket of the island just north of Seminyak, between Kerobokan and Echo Beach, Canggu (pronounced “Changu") has an emerging dining and bar scene, newly opened luxury resorts and villas, and top surf beaches of mostly volcanic black sand. What sets it apart from trendy Seminyak is its mix of Bali past and present – lush rice paddies surround the town, and the vibe leans more mindful, with yoga retreats and health-conscious cafes throughout. It’s also generally less expensive.

Things to see in Canggu

Canggu’s beaches are mostly volcanic black sand, but hugely popular for surfing and the bars and restaurants springing up along the shore. From south to north: Berawa Beach (great for intermediate surfers, home to Finns Beach Club), Nelayan Beach (calmer, home to fishing boats), Batu Bolong Beach (best for beginner surfers and cheap local eats), Echo Beach (for experienced surfers and upscale bars), and Pererenan Beach (powerful surf, usually quieter).

Around 20 minutes’ drive north of Canggu is Tanah Lot, one of Bali’s most famous and important sea temples, built on a rocky outcrop believed to be protected by sea snakes; sunset is the most popular time to visit. Further north, Batu Bolong Temple sits on a headland reached only by a natural rock bridge.

Best places to visit in Canggu

Canggu’s three main beaches offer some of the best surfing on the island. Echo Beach suits intermediate and pro surfers with powerful reef breaks either side of a central beach break; Berawa Beach has one long beach break and a few small reefs; Batu Bolong is the easiest of the three, with slower, “fatter" waves better suited to beginners, longboards and SUPs.

Where to stay in Canggu

Canggu isn’t as saturated with luxury resorts as other parts of Bali, but there’s still plenty to suit every traveller.

Luxury resorts here tend to be beachfront, with options ranging from stylish suites to multi-bedroom penthouses with private pools and butler service – many also come with a kids’ club, on-site beach club, spa and fitness classes, so it’s worth checking what’s included before you book.

Hotels in Canggu span everything from affordable, eclectic high-rises with rooftop bars to more traditional Indonesian-style properties with villas and bungalows set among gardens, as well as smaller boutique hotels closer to the action in town.

Villas are a great option if you’re travelling as a group or want more privacy – many come with private pools, some with full staff, and can range from a single multi-bedroom property to neighbouring villas booked together for larger parties. Areas closer to the rice paddies tend to offer more space and scenery, while beachfront villas put you right near the surf.

Where you base yourself matters too: Berawa suits those wanting proximity to beach clubs and nightlife; Batu Bolong is the walkable, cafe-heavy hub, and Echo Beach and Pererenan offer a quieter, more laid-back pace further from the crowds.

Cultural experiences in Canggu

Tanah Lot is worth visiting with a guided tour if you want deeper insight into its significance as one of Bali’s most important sea temples. Canggu also has a strong foodie culture worth exploring through Indonesian cooking classes or a motorcycle-based Canggu Foodie Tour, taking in the best local food spots around town.

Getting to Canggu

Canggu is on Bali’s southwest coast, generally around 30–45 minutes by car from Denpasar’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, depending on traffic – public transport is limited, so a taxi or private transfer is the most reliable option. See our main Bali travel guide for details on flying into Bali from Australia.