Canggu is a popular destination with the international hipster brigade. Apart from the great surf, people have been coming to Canggu to escape the craziness of Kuta to a Bali with padi fields and roaring surf, yet still has all the niceties of life within a short scooter ride away. In recent years new restaurants, beach-side bars and surf schools have sprung up in Canggu all catering to the new travellers. This is where you will find new ventures such as warungs serving organic food, surf & yoga classes and independent fashion labels. The entrepreneurs here have skilfully married the best of local and international ideas and trends into their very own Canggu style.
Surfing in Canggu
Canggu’s popularity was driven by the incredible surf in the area. There is a thriving modern longboarding scene at Pantai Batu Bolong or Old Man’s (name of the surf spot in front), which is also where beginners and surf schools tend to congregate. Around the Old Man’s car park is a cool apres surf scene with restaurants and bars. Further North at Echo Beach and beyond, the waves break on reef and rock and are more suited to experienced surfers. There is a good choice of warungs and restaurants on top of the seawall where you can watch the surfing action with an icy bintang. Berawa is another beach close by that offers intermediate waves breaking on smooth volcanic rock.
Checkout our comprehensive Guide to Surfing Canggu.
Learning to Surf in Canggu
If you are new to surfing, Canggu is not the place to just hire a board and try it yourself. You need way more time to master the basics and worst you could get into some trouble in these waters. Several surf camps operate around the Canggu area. They will take care of accommodation, food and your surfing lessons. Camps are a hassle free option and a chance to meet other beginner surfers.
If you would like more personal training you can seek out a surf guide who can tailor each lesson to your surfing ability. As in Kuta, you can easily find someone to teach you how to surf for a fee but it's best to go with experienced local surf guides for the best instruction.
Surf Hire in Canggu
The rental shop in front of Old Man’s Batu Bolong carpark has a large variety of softboards and longboards. You can rent them out for the whole day or just for a couple of hours.
Surf Shops in Canggu
Surf shops are starting to appear around the area where you can pick up some wax or even a custom made board for Bali waves.
Swimming in Canggu
People should be careful in the waters around Canggu. There are often rips and heavy surf which are dangerous for the inexperienced. This area is also not patrolled by lifeguards. Get your photos in the shallows, but save your swimming for the beaches further South like Legian or Kuta. Alternatively dip yourself into a pool at one of beach clubs.
Beach Clubs in Canggu
While the multitude of little little beach side bars and warungs have so far been confined to Seminyak and further South, beach clubs are springing up around Canggu to cater for the party people.
Finns
@finnsbeachclub
Further South of Canggu at Berawa, Finns is a large beachside club complex with 4 swimming pools, numerous bars and it’s signature bamboo ship party platform. There are regular parties and special events with visiting DJs spinning club music. Finn’s also serve meals from a variety of restaurants on site.
Old Mans
@oldmansbali
Old Mans named after the surf break close by is a beach side bar / restaurant overlooking Batu Bolong beach. During the day, Old Man’s is laid back catering to Canggu’s surfers and hipsters, while evenings get more rowdy with the party crowd. The elevated platform is a nice place for cocktails and bintangs during sundowners.
The Lawn
@thelawncanggu
A beach side lounge known for its outdoor area overlooking the beach which has been laid with fake grass. The outdoor pool, bar and music makes the lawn great spot for catching a bite of chilling into the evenings. You can book the sun beds and cabanas for a prime sunset spot.
La Brisa
@labrisabali
Immediately recognisable by it’s wooden structure, La Brisa is located right in front of the Echo Beach surf break. The truly unique eco friendly building is constructed out of the remnants of old fishing boats. The theme carries over to the decor with elements of a traditional Balinese fisherman’s home. An outdoor pool, deck and sun beds, this place is an instagrammers delight.
Yoga in Canggu
@udarabali
Yoga practitioners are drawn to Canggu’s undeniable natural energy and it’s alternative lifestyle. A couple of studios and teachers have their base here offering classes and private tuition. In nearby Seseh, Udara Bali is a large eco spa and yoga retreat with a yoga platform overlooking the ocean.
Spas in Canggu
Food & Dining in Canggu
For beachside dining in Canggu, you will find restaurants around Echo Beach, Seseh and Berawa. Along Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong there are lots of options spring up to cater for tourists ranging from hipster cafes, chic fine dining to traditional warungs.
Warung Bu Mi
@warungbumicanggu
Truly amazing warung serving Indonesian food where you can pick and choose from a variety of dishes.
Enso Sushi
@enso.sushi.bali
Enso Sushi is a modern Japanese restaurant known for their signature sushi rolls, yakitori and minimal aesthetics.
Deus Temple of Enthusiasm
@deustemple
The Temple of Enthusiasm is the Balinese outpost of Australian custom & surf lifestyle brand Deus Ex Machina. It’s a restaurant and concert venue with frequent performances by live bands. The shop also sells custom motorcycles, surfboards and other Deus gear.
Echo Beach Club
The club has been around for a while and occupies a prime position overlooking Echo Beach. They have a popular BBQ dinner where you get unlimited sides with freshly grilled seafood or meats. Live music, outside dining and candle lit tables adds to the atmosphere.
