In the lush landscapes of Bali, Canggu is a captivating destination that offers a harmonious blend of tranquility and excitement. It is best known for its world-class surfing spots, which attract wave riders and beach lovers from around the world. However, Canggu’s appeal extends beyond its pristine shores. It has become a thriving hub for digital nomads, attracting remote workers with its abundance of stylish coworking spaces, vibrant cafes, and laid-back bohemian vibe.
In this comprehensive guide, we aim to uncover the true essence of Canggu. We will reveal its hidden treasures and present an array of experiences that cater to every traveler’s desires. From exploring ancient temples steeped in history to immersing oneself in a thriving wellness scene, Canggu presents a delightful fusion of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. Prepare to be captivated as we uncover the heart of Canggu and present the top things to do that will etch an enduring memory into your Bali adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the top things to do in Canggu:
Surfing
- Learn to Surf: Canggu’s beaches are excellent for all skill levels. Echo Beach and Batu Bolong are popular spots with plenty of surf schools and board rentals.
- Chill at Surf Spots: Even if you’re not surfing, hang out at surf spots for amazing sunsets and laid-back vibes. Check out The Lawn, Old Man’s, or La Brisa.
Beach Hopping
- Diverse Beaches: Canggu has several beaches, each with its own vibe. Explore Berawa Beach for a lively scene, Pererenan for fewer crowds, and Nelayan Beach for fishing boats and colorful sunsets.
Wellness
- Treat Yourself to a Spa Day: Canggu has fantastic spas offering traditional Balinese massages, body scrubs, and beauty treatments. Seek out peaceful settings for a day of pampering.
- Yoga Haven: Canggu is popular with yogis. Drop-in at a yoga studio like The Practice or Samadi for classes of various styles.
Shopping
- Boutiques and Markets: Stroll through boutiques with stylish clothing and homeware, or find boho treasures at the Love Anchor Market.
Food
- Health-focused Cafes: Find endless healthy cafes serving smoothie bowls, vegan treats, and creative plant-based cuisine.
- Casual and Chic Restaurants: Canggu also excels in restaurants with global flavors, from delicious Indonesian eats to fine dining options.
Nightlife & Sunsets
- Beachfront Sunset Spots: Find your perfect sunset bar with views of the ocean. Finn’s Beach Club is a popular spot for its great scene and vibe.
- Nighttime Fun: Canggu’s nightlife is more relaxed than Seminyak but still offers bars with live music and chilled atmospheres for evening drinks.
Day Trips
- Tanah Lot Temple: Witness the iconic seaside temple, especially beautiful at sunset.
- Explore the Rice Terraces: Jatiluwih’s rice terraces offer scenic beauty and a glimpse into traditional Balinese life.
- Getting Around: Many visitors rent motorbikes to explore Canggu on their own. If you’re not comfortable driving one, there are taxis and ride-hailing options as well (download Gojek and Grab App).
Digital Nomad Hotspot
Canggu and Ubud are two popular digital nomad hotspots in Bali. In this text, we’ll provide an overview of the nomad lifestyle in Canggu and explain why it’s so appealing to location-independent workers.
Coworking Spaces
Canggu has a great selection of coworking spaces that are perfect for digital nomads.
- Spacious and Social: Places like Outpost, Dojo, and Tropical Nomad offer large, open-plan areas with reliable Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and private booths. They also focus on building a community of like-minded individuals.
- Amenities: Many coworking spaces go beyond desks and internet, providing healthy cafes, on-site gyms, pools, and even social events designed for networking and making friends.
The Vibe
Canggu has a unique vibe, combining a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere with an entrepreneurial edge. Its trendy cafes, stylish boutiques, and numerous health-focused spots make it an ideal location for remote work. In addition to its beautiful beaches and surf breaks, Canggu offers a stimulating environment for individuals seeking a balance between productivity and laid-back living.
Accommodation
Canggu’s popularity with nomads translates to a wide, flexible range of accommodation options:
- Short-term Villas: Rent a luxurious private villa with your own pool to live like royalty, yet split the cost with other nomads for affordability.
- Cozy Homestays: Guesthouses and homestays offer comfortable rooms at lower prices, often with a sense of community and a chance to connect with locals.
- Long-term Rentals: For those staying longer, apartments and houses can be found for affordable monthly rates.
Lifestyle Affordability
While Bali isn’t as cheap as it once was, Canggu still provides a relatively affordable lifestyle for digital nomads compared to Western countries. Meals at local spots, fresh produce, and even services like massages are often budget-friendly.
The Community
Canggu has a strong sense of community for digital nomads. Meetups, workshops, and Facebook groups make it easy to connect with location-independent workers, find collaborators, and combat loneliness.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Visas: Consider visa requirements for long-term stays. The ‘Visa on Arrival’ is only valid for 30 days and can be extended once. Many nomads opt for social visas (requiring a sponsor) or explore other longer-term options.
- Traffic: Canggu’s increasing popularity can lead to congestion. Be mindful of this if you need to attend frequent meetings in specific locations.
Overall, Canggu provides a fantastic blend of infrastructure, community, and the Bali lifestyle ideal for digital nomads. If the scene appeals to you, it’s definitely worth exploring!