Curator’s statement
Canggu (pronounced “Chan-gu”) is the perfect spot in Bali to catch waves, sunrays, and Namaste. Located on the coast, everything you need is within a few minutes walk. I was a digital nomad living in Canggu for two years and fell in love with the welcoming vibes and inspirational surroundings. With the growing community of remote workers and creative entrepreneurs, you’ll find it easy to make friends with both visitors and locals, and plenty of delicious restaurants and spas to spoil yourself between beach days.
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Where to stay
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Things to do
Spa and Wellness
Spring Spa - The most friendly and peaceful environment, with the best massages (my favorite is the Spring Signature massage).
GOLDUST Beauty Lounge – This is a must for the infamous 24K Gold Facial, bring your phone with you for a pure gold-faced selfie!
Amo Spa – This is by far my favorite spa for a facial- I love the “Make Me Beautiful” facial that includes microdermabrasion and oxygenation. You’ll walk out *literally glowing!
Samadi Bali – This is the perfect place to take a yoga or breathwork class, or immerse yourself in the holistic wellness that makes Bali so special. I had the Crystal Chakra Balancing done by a healer there, and it was a really special experience. There is a plethora of holistic health and wellness offerings at Samadi Bali.
Canggu Studio - This was literally my home away from home- in addition to everyone being welcoming and friendly, the range of classes was so diverse and exciting, I could go to Canggu Studio EVERY day. Check out their dance classes!
Beach Days
Old Man’s Surf Rental - A MUST while in Canggu is to learn to surf! Everyone is friendly and helpful and even if you have zero experience, trying out this ocean sport in easy white water waves is a fun way to spend a day!
The Lawn Beach Club - If you prefer your beach day to include lounge chairs, umbrellas, and service, this is the place to go! In the heart of Canggu Beach, you can stay from day until night and sometimes catch music after sunset!
Batu Bolong Beach - This beach is full of life at all hours! Grab a spot on the beach in the morning or go for a walk, and depending on the day there could be a late night dance party on the beach!
Nightlife
Old Man’s - If you’re craving a night out, this local hot spot overlooks Batu Bolong Beach and is THE place for a Bintang and music. It’s especially fun during happy hour for a sunset drink.
Deus Ex Machina, Temple of Enthusiasm - If you love motorcycles, food, and seeing bands, this is the place to grab a drink, check out music, and shop for the coveted brand’s clothing inspired by surf and motorcycle culture.
Places to eat & drink
Breakfast
La Brisa - Head to this beachfront spot with pools, beach access, and delicious food! Solo Traveler tip: Get here when it opens to get an ocean view spot and grab a coconut to drink while pondering your breakfast order! Bring a book and enjoy the view of surfers and waves.
Penny Lane - This open-air restaurant has one of my favorite Dragonfruit Smoothie Bowls and is decorated with a sense of humor and coolness. Order the “I’m in Love with the Coco” Smoothie Bowl while seated across from the Triptych of Tupac, Jimi Hendrix and Notorious B.I.G.
Avocado Factory - You can probably guess the focus of this breakfast spot by the name…delicious dishes featuring avocado as the main star and cold coconuts to drink is the way to go with this cute café. My favorite spot to sit is outside, and you can ask for the fans to be turned on if you need to cool off!
Lunch/Dinner
Lacalita - Mexican-inspired food in an easy-going atmosphere. Solo Traveler tip: If you need to do some work, bring your laptop and grab a seat on the patio area for a late lunch. My fave dishes are: Fundido, Ceviche, Jackfruit tacos and the Queso Quesadilla.
Tropikale Bali - One of my favorite places to take a break from the beach and grab delicious food and work on my laptop- I’ve spent countless hours here! Not only is everyone friendly and welcoming, but you can order breakfast, lunch or dinner here and the wifi is impeccable! My fave dishes are: Red Dragon Smoothie Bowl, Tuna Mayo Open Sandwich, and the Cajun Snapper Fillet.
Varuna Warung Canggu – This warung (a small family-owned eatery) has a plethora of Indonesian meat and vegan options and a favorite for its affordable prices and variety of options. While in Bali, you must try Mie Goreng: a stir-fried noodle dish, and Nasi Goreng: one of Indonesia’s national dishes and the most delicious Southeast Asian fried rice you’ll ever have.
Shady Shack - This uber-popular café is known for its vegetarian and vegan menu, and features an all-day breakfast along with main courses and desserts. I fell in love with Jackfruit Tacos here!
Pizza Fabbrica - Sometimes when you travel, you just crave a pizza!! Look no further, Pizza Fabbrica has the most delicious, thinnest, crispiest, flavorful pizzas, and the Italian creators have brought the taste of Italy to Bali to satisfy locals and tourist’s tastebuds. Solo Traveler tip: Grab a seat at the high top chairs facing the street for a breeze and scooter-watching. My fave dishes are: Burrata and Quattro Formaggi Pizza, and ask for the chili oil if you like a little spice!
Mad Pops Bali - if you’re in need of a sweet treat, this cute ice cream shop has coconut-based ice cream and playful funky toppings and cones that will make your dessert Instagram-worthy.
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Travel Advisor
Heather Brown
Get in touch with Heather
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For more travel inspiration, check out Fora Advisor Allen Litton's guide, Local's Guide to the Best Hotels & Experiences in Bali.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Bali.