The coastal village of Canggu is where Bali holidaymakers go for a relaxed beach vibe with authentic Indonesian dining, culture and shopping. Cafes and villas dot the shoreline, overlooking 10 kilometres of longboard-friendly surf, coconut trees and golden sand.

Things to do

Canggu’s bohemian atmosphere is accentuated by yoga retreats, street artwork and five tranquil beaches. Canggu Beach is one of the most popular, due to its street stalls, surf breaks and beachfront Old Man’s Bar. Head to Echo Beach if you prefer eating fresh seafood at cafes along the shore and listening to chilled-out tunes.

You’ll have plenty of shopping opportunities in the area, particularly at Pasar Canggu, a traditional market with fresh fruit and produce from local farmers. On Sunday, many markets pop up around town, including Love Anchor Canggu, which sells artisan clothes, jewellery and food alongside live music.

Immerse yourself in the local culture at the family-friendly Tugu Hotel Cultural Evening, where traditional Balinese dances and Gamelan music entertain lively crowds. Families will also enjoy Canggu Club, which has a pool, tennis courts, a bowling alley and a waterslide. If surfing is more your speed, arrange a lesson at Batu Bolong Beach, renowned for its calm waves and soft sand.

The roads outside of Canggu reveal sprawling rice fields and green farmland scattered with modest homes. The views alone are worth a drive out of town, but the world-famous Tanah Lot makes hiring a car a no-brainer. The dramatic rock formation and pilgrimage temple are only 30 minutes from Canggu and are best seen at sunset.

Getting around

Canggu is about 45 minutes from Bali Ngurah Rai Airport, which is an affordable trip via taxi. Once in town, you can walk to most of the Canggu’s major points of interest or hire a scooter, car or driver. Taxis are another option for visiting attractions outside of town.