Canggu Bali: Things to Do, Where to Stay & How to Get from Bali Airport

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By Zora

April 16, 2026

Canggu Bali

Planning a trip to the Island of the Gods? You simply can't miss a stop in Canggu. This trendy coastal hub has it all: a world-class surf scene, a vibrant "hip" atmosphere, and a collection of what I consider to be the best dining spots in all of Bali.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect Canggu getaway, from choosing the right neighbourhood to stay in to the must-do activities.

Where to Stay in Canggu: Neighborhood & Play

Where to Stay in Canggu: Neighborhood & Play

men's white crew neck shirt Via Unsplash (by Cassie Gallegos)

Echo Beach: The Chill Coastal Classic

For many, Echo Beach remains the quintessential Canggu experience. It offers a self-contained lifestyle where you can surf, enjoy legendary beachside BBQs, and catch stunning sunsets without ever needing a motorbike.

  • The Vibe: While crowds have shifted toward the trendier hotspots of Batu Bolong and Berawa, Echo Beach has retained a peaceful charm. It’s perfect if you want premium amenities like COMO Beach Club or the iconic La Brisa minus the overwhelming bustle.
  • Don't Miss: Healthy eats at Shady Shack or a morning session at the local yoga studios.

Batu Bolong: The Vibrant Heart of the Action

Batu Bolong is the undisputed centre of Canggu’s energy. Stretching from the main road down to the shore, this area is a high-octane mix of kitschy boutiques and high-end dining.

  • The Vibe: This is the neighborhood for those who want to be in the thick of it. It’s home to famous names like Mason, Old Man’s, and The Lawn. Expect plenty of surf rentals on the sand and the island's "coolest crowd" waiting for the next set.
  • Accommodation: Offers everything from upscale luxury hotels to social hostels. Note: Come here for the nightlife, not for a quiet night's sleep.

Jalan Nelayan: The "Gym Alley" Discovery

A relatively recent favorite, Nelayan has transformed into a fitness enthusiast's dream. It’s a slightly more understated pocket of Canggu that offers a refreshing break from the massive beach club scene.

  • The Vibe: Known as "Gym Alley" due to the presence of Body Factory, Canggu Studios, and the spinning favorite Zycle. The beach remains largely undeveloped, making it a great spot to watch local fishermen or catch a boat to Uluwatu.
  • Highlights: Visit ZIN Cafe for free co-working, Kynd Community for aesthetic plant-based meals, or Serenity Eco Guesthouse for budget-friendly massages and yoga.

Berawa: The Trendy Up-and-Comer

Though reaching Berawa requires navigating the infamous "Canggu Shortcut," the effort is well worth it. It’s arguably the most vibrant area for shopping and modern dining right now.

  • The Vibe: Berawa feels fresh and intentionally curated. It strikes a balance between being "vibey" and slightly less congested than the Batu Bolong core.
  • Food & Nightlife: Home to the world-famous Finns Beach Club, as well as culinary hits like Mosto, Copenhagen Berawa, and the must-try Dough Darlings.
  • Surf: Known for having some of the most consistent and superb waves in the region.

Cheap Flights to Bali

Best Hotels in Canggu

Top Things to do in Canggu

Things to do in Canggu

Scenic view of tropical overwater villas surrounded by clear blue water and palm trees in Vietnam. Via Pexels (by thanhhoa tran)

To be fair, Canggu isn’t typically the first place you’d go for a deep cultural immersion or traditional sightseeing—for that, you’re better off heading to Ubud. Instead, Canggu’s charm lies in its transformation: while many of its famous rice paddies have been replaced by a world-class dining and entertainment scene, it remains a premier destination for black-sand beaches and consistent surf breaks.

Ultimately, Canggu is the ultimate "lifestyle" hub. It’s the kind of place where you can easily settle in for a week to balance remote work, high-intensity fitness, spa treatments, and—most importantly—an endless rotation of incredible restaurants.

The Essential Canggu To-Do List

  • Beach Club Culture: Spend a day lounging at iconic spots like Finns, The Lawn, COMO Beach Club, or the bohemian La Brisa at Echo Beach.
  • The Fitness Circuit: Stay active with spinning at Zycle, yoga at Samadi or Serenity, or a serious lifting session at Body Factory. For something different, try kickboxing at Canggu Studios or a game of padel at Jungle Padel.
  • Surf & Sand: Catch a wave at Echo Beach, Batu Bolong, or Berawa. All three spots have plenty of board rentals and local instructors ready to help beginners.
  • Work from Paradise: If you need to stay productive, grab a seat at ZIN Cafe or the purpose-built Tribal coworking space.
  • Iconic Day Trip: Take a short drive north to visit the breathtaking Tanah Lot Temple, one of Bali's most sacred offshore shrines.
  • Unique Adventures:
    • Test your strength at Bali Climbing.
    • Skip the road traffic and take a scenic GoBoat.id ferry from Nelayan Beach directly to Uluwatu.
    • Have a family-friendly afternoon at Taman Segara Madu Water Park.
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Where to Eat in Canggu?

Where to Eat in Canggu?

people in swimming pool Via Unsplash (by Cassie Gallegos)

Top Cafes in Canggu

Perfect for a slow brunch or a post-surf caffeine hit:

  • Crate Cafe: Still the "coolest" spot in town. It’s famous for massive portions and a high-energy atmosphere. Tip: Arrive early to beat the morning rush, as the communal tables fill up fast.
  • Shady Shack: A must-visit for plant-based foodies. This garden-style cafe serves up vibrant vegetarian and vegan bowls—the Nori Bowl remains a legendary fan favorite.
  • Copenhagen: A unique Danish-inspired concept where you build your own breakfast board. Don't leave without trying their authentic rye bread or the fresh waffles.
  • Kynd Community: Now firmly established in Canggu, this pink-hued paradise offers some of the most aesthetic (and delicious) vegan bowls and smoothies on the island.

Top Restaurants in Canggu

For a sophisticated dinner or a "vibey" night out:

  • Skool Kitchen: An incredible culinary experience focused on "primitive" over-the-fire cooking. For the best seat in the house, sit at the kitchen counter to watch the chefs work the flames.
  • Mosto: This trendy natural wine bar perfectly blends an extensive wine list with innovative "East meets West" small plates—ideal for a social evening with friends.
  • Mason: A Canggu staple that continues to draw a hip, consistent crowd. Known for its wood-fired grill and cured meats; the roasted quail is highly recommended.

How to Get from Bali Airport to Canggu?

How to Get from Bali Airport to Canggu?

people sitting on chair inside building Via Unsplash (by Phil Mosley)

Getting from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to Canggu is a journey of about 15–20 km. While the distance is short, traffic in areas like Kuta and Seminyak can be heavy, meaning the drive typically takes anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Here are the most reliable ways to make the trip:

Canggu Bali | Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Recommended)

Private transfer is generally the least stressful option. Your driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name sign, helping you avoid the "taxi vouchers" and crowds at the exit.

  • Cost: Approximately AUD $25 – $40 (around IDR 300,000 – 400,000).
  • Providers: Services like Trip.com, or local drivers (often reached via WhatsApp) are popular.
  • Perks: Fixed pricing, flight monitoring, and door-to-door service to your villa or hotel.

Canggu Bali | Grab or Gojek

Bali's equivalent to Uber or Lyft. Both apps have official lounges and pickup points at the airport.

  • Grab Lounge: Located in the International and Domestic arrival zones. Staff there can help you book if you don't have the app ready.
  • Pickup Point: Usually requires a short walk to the "Grab Lounge" or the "Domestic Parking Building" (3rd Floor).
  • Cost: Roughly AUD $30 – $45 (IDR 310,000 – 450,000). Prices fluctuate based on demand.
  • Note: Fares from the airport are higher than standard city rates due to airport surcharges.

Canggu Bali | Airport Taxis

You can find the official taxi desk just outside the arrivals hall.

  • Pre-paid: You pay a fixed price at the counter based on your destination zone in Canggu.
  • Metered: Bluebird taxis are the most reputable metered option, though they can sometimes be harder to find right at the arrivals curb compared to the fixed-rate drivers.
  • Cost: Expect to pay around AUD $30 – $40 (IDR 300,000 – 400,000).

Hotel Recommendations in Bali

Bali Hotels

5 star

Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort

9.3/10Great443 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|16.74km from downtown
During my stay, the room linens weren't changed promptly (even with daily tips), and I encountered some hygiene issues with them. This was eventually resolved through Ctrip, but it did affect my overall experience. Aside from that, the hotel's service and facilities were good. The 'Lazy River' was a hit with the kids, though it was a bit short. The gym was very clean, and while the equipment was mostly fixed machines, it was sufficient for a regular workout. The restaurant didn't have air conditioning (which is common in Bali, and it wasn't too hot), so there were a lot of flies (also a common Bali phenomenon). There was a wide variety of food, and the rose apples were good, but other fruits were just average. Next time I visit, I'll still choose a hotel in the Nusa Dua area (it's safe, has a good environment, and is convenient for dining, shopping, transportation, and hospitals), but it might not necessarily be the Courtyard.
FromUS$ 111

Ayung Resort Ubud

9.3/10Great108 Reviews
Ubud Bali|22.98km from downtown
This is a premium hotel far outside of Ubud center. Be aware you are about 30 minutes from Ubud if you stay here and there really isn't much to do in the immediate area besides stare at the jungle. Staff was outstanding here with frequent greetings by name and remembering you like a Ritz Carlton. Because I enjoy regular outings I actually found the location quite inconvenient as an hour a day would have to be devoted just to getting to and from Ubud. The room I got was enormous and included a dining room, sitting room, bedroom, large bathroom. The in room amenities were great including a free restocking mini bar with snacks (no alcohol) and a large smart TV. The bed was huge, soft, and comfortable. The bathtub was a downside as it was quite small by western standards (not as small as a japanese tub though). I'm not a very big individual at 173cm and I felt it was too narrow and not long enough. Perhaps suitable for petite individuals only. Be aware of that if like me and many Americans you prefer baths over showers. The property is very large and you will likely want to regularly use the phone to request the on site golf cart shuttles to get around it as otherwise you will spend much of your time walking uphill from the rooms to the amenities near the entrance like the restaurant and pool.
FromUS$ 87

InterContinental Hotels BALI RESORT by IHG

9.2/10Great546 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from downtown
I recently stayed at the InterContinental Bali Resort and found the resort’s layout, grounds, and facilities to be excellent. The property is beautifully maintained and provides a pleasant and relaxing environment for guests. Unfortunately, my overall experience was significantly affected by an issue I encountered on the second night of my stay. I was unable to sleep due to a strong and unpleasant smell coming from the pillows and bedding. The odor was similar to that of a room that had been left unused for an extended period. At approximately 3:40 a.m., I contacted the hotel for assistance. While the staff responded promptly and replaced the pillows, I was informed that the smell was “normal,” which I found disappointing and concerning. The following day, I reported the matter to the receptionist, who kindly apologized for the inconvenience. Regrettably, after this experience, I developed a severe cold and fever, which negatively affected the remainder of my stay. While I appreciate the apology and acknowledge the many positive aspects of the resort, I believe greater attention should be given to room freshness, bedding quality, and the handling of guest concerns, particularly when they impact a guest’s comfort and well-being. I hope this feedback will be taken constructively and help improve the experience for future guests.
FromUS$ 197

Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa

9.3/10Great550 Reviews
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km from downtown
The hotel is located on a hill, quite high up, so you definitely need a car to get around. There's one road that's in terrible condition – avoid it at all costs. The hotel is a bit older, so the rooms aren't brand new, but they are comfortable enough. The bathroom is as spacious as the bedroom, which is great. Breakfast was plentiful but not particularly tasty (a common issue in Bali). I bought a voucher for 800 RMB including breakfast for two during a promotion, and using it in June made it a really good deal. However, if it were 1000 RMB per night, I think there would be better options available.
FromUS$ 170

Alaya Resort Ubud

9.4/10Amazing565 Reviews
Ubud Bali|16km from downtown
Very beautiful hotel. The food was delicious, and the hygiene was excellent. The service was also very good and polite. The common areas are lovely, and I even got a discount on a massage. Pison is right next door, and the location is fantastic, right next to the Monkey Forest.
FromUS$ 148

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Business travel

Sense Sunset Hotel Seminyak

8/10Very Good414 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.6km from downtown
Pleasant experience with this hotel but never stay long enough to give valuable feedback. However, from check-in to check-out, it was a seamless experience. Staffs are very nice. Upon entering the room, the taps, shower head, and toilet flush are very rusty & mouldy.. We requested for a change but water output was not better.. It was splashing in all directions, making washing up not a very pleasant experience. But you pay for what you get which was reasonable as long as water is clean.
FromUS$ 13

Prama Sanur Beach Bali

8.9/10Very Good405 Reviews
Sanur Bali|7.01km from downtown
Prama Sanur Beach Bali is an established resort offering great value for money. Its biggest draw is the private beachfront, perfect for catching stunning sunrises, cycling, and enjoying water sports right from the hotel. The pool is large and surrounded by lush greenery. However, since the hotel has been around for a while, the rooms and bathrooms show their age. Overall, it's a good choice for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a wide range of facilities and relaxing sea views, and aren't overly particular about the newest amenities.
FromUS$ 89

Eden Hotel Kuta Bali

8.3/10Very Good324 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.42km from downtown
Really nice hotel, excellent value. I was only there for 1 night, but wish it was longer. Great location nearby the airport and plenty around the local area. Room was very spacious and well equipped. The stand out was the food from the room service, which was very inexpensive, and was exceptional (pictured), would highly recommend. Staff all polite and friendly.
FromUS$ 16

Kuta Beach Club Hotel

9/10Great739 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.39km from downtown
We stayed at the hotel for 2 days and found no drawbacks during that time. Our room was far from the pool with a beautiful garden view, so it was quite quiet. In the mornings, we could hear staff starting their work from outside. The bathroom was large. The room was clean, but there were small stains on the bed linen. There are 2 pools nearby, one of which is 2m deep. Noisy groups tend to gather at the poolside bar, which dampens the relaxing atmosphere. It's about a 5-minute walk to the beach. I recommend this hotel if you're staying for no longer than 5 days.
FromUS$ 43

D'Primahotel Petitenget Seminyak 2

8.8/10Very Good398 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.77km from downtown
We stayed at D’prima Hotel Seminyak for 3 nights during a shopping-focused trip, and the location was exactly what we needed — right in the center of Seminyak with easy access to shops, cafes, and everything within walking distance. The room was spacious with a very large, comfortable bed, which made it easy to relax after long days out. The hotel is not new and you can notice this in details like the bathroom fixtures and some general wear, but everything was clean and overall comfortable. For the price, it’s a solid budget-friendly option in a great area, especially if you plan to spend most of your time exploring rather than staying at the hotel. If you’re looking for a simple, well-located place to sleep while enjoying Seminyak, this is a good choice.
FromUS$ 23

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Breakfast

Kenran Resort Ubud by Soscomma

8.9/10Very Good351 Reviews
Ubud Bali|21.48km from downtown
The cliffside infinity pool offers stunning views of the rainforest terraces and valleys, with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets – perfect for incredible photos. Enjoy ultimate privacy in a secluded rainforest villa, quiet and peaceful, far from the hustle and bustle of Ubud. The butler service is attentive, there's a 24-hour front desk, free city shuttle, professional spa, and the floating breakfast is amazing. The rooms are spacious, with Zen-inspired Balinese decor, clean, tidy, and have excellent terrace views. Forest yoga and rice field trekking provide a healing and relaxing experience, making it ideal for a romantic honeymoon. Be aware of mosquitoes and geckos: it's inevitable in a rainforest villa, and you might occasionally find small lizards indoors, so definitely come prepared with mosquito repellent.
FromUS$ 78

Fox Hotel Jimbaran Beach Bali

8.9/10Very Good543 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from downtown
Let's start with the positives: this hotel boasts a fantastic pool with sea views and stunning sunsets. The location is great, just a 5-minute walk to the beach. It's also a quick 15-minute taxi ride to the airport. Breakfasts are good, and the coffee is tasty. And that's pretty much where the good stuff ends. Now for the negatives: the rooms are very old and in desperate need of renovation. They're also dirty, with stains everywhere. There are no balconies, and the windows don't open. Nothing dries in the room, and due to poor ventilation, clothes actually get damp overnight. The soundproofing is terrible; you can hear everyone yelling in the hallway. The air conditioning units hum very loudly; our first night was awful because, in addition to the humming, there was also vibration – it was impossible to sleep. Even though we requested a quiet room, we were told it *was* quiet. They did change our room to a junior suite, which was clean and well-renovated. The AC unit still hummed in that one, but it was less noticeable due to the room's larger size. Toothbrushes, cotton swabs, and shower caps are only provided once upon check-in and are not replaced. If you're looking for a European feel rather than something akin to Anapa, do not choose this hotel. Most guests here are Russians on tour packages. I would only recommend this hotel for a one or two-night stay before a flight.
FromUS$ 43

The Apurva Kempinski Bali

9.5/10Amazing1140 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from downtown
This is one of the most famous hotels recently, so I had to come and experience it! The hotel is built on a cliff, and the entire lobby design is simply breathtaking – it feels grand and magnificent. The beach is also beautiful. In the evening, when the tide went out, we took the kids crab hunting, and they had so many wonderful memories! The only slight drawback was the breakfast flow; for such a large number of rooms, the breakfast area felt a bit small, which was a shame. A big thank you to Trip.com for getting us such a great room type on the day we booked!
FromUS$ 443

Holiday Inn Resort BALI NUSA DUA by IHG

8.7/10Very Good174 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14km from downtown
This hotel is a very good choice 👍🏼 I am a little picky, but here’s my review: Pros: ✅ No damp smell, well ventilated ( I was worried about this) ✅ No insects in the room. There might be some geckos 🦎 (which is normal and expected) but I didn’t see any. ✅ Very clean in general ✅ Comfortable bed ✅ The service is amazing ✅ The staff is very friendly and helpful ✅ The breakfast is very good, there are plenty of choices. ✅ Their restaurant is also very good, in case you don’t want to go out of the resort. ✅ The vibe at the beach is nice and if you like water sports it is also good. ✅ The pool is huge and very nice ✅ Reasonable price (but it will depend on the season and demand) Cons: 😑 Sound proof can be better, one can hear everyone from the pool (the sound enters from the main door) 😑 The beach is not the best for swimming, and is a bit dirty in general (not the hotel’s fault) 😑 The gym can be better as there are only 3 machines (spinning, treadmill and elliptical) the dumbbells are fine ✅😄 Overall, recommended! I was happy with my stay at this hotel! It is good to give it a try!
FromUS$ 139

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali

9.1/10Great181 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|15.75km from downtown
Here’s a more natural and polished version of your review: We love Mövenpick Hotels, even though we don’t have kids yet. If you’re looking for a family-friendly retreat with plenty of fun activities for children and an amazing pool experience, this is the perfect hotel. The breakfast was delicious, and the hotel provides a complimentary buggy to the beach every hour. Alternatively, it’s only a 5–10 minute walk. Our only disappointment was the Chocolate Hour, which is a signature experience at Mövenpick Hotels. Unfortunately, it was the least impressive Chocolate Hour we’ve experienced compared to other Mövenpick properties. Everything else was excellent, and we had a wonderful stay.
FromUS$ 134

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Zora

Zora

Trip.com Blogger

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Hi, I am Zora from Shanghai, I've explored many spots across China, and also taken me further abroad including Australia, Malaysia, Finland and so on. For me, travel is about connecting deeply with each place. As a true travel enthusiast, I love diving deep into all the travel hacks, from booking secrets and ride-hailing discounts to travel promotions. I'm here to share every trick I know, guaranteed to help you save big and travel smart. Let's explore the world cleverly together!

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