Surf, swim, and sip the Southern Bali lifestyle. That’s the beach in Canggu.
Looking for a golden experience in one of Indonesia’s most popular areas? Each beach in Canggu, Bali can take you to paradise. But with so many tourists vying for the sand and waves, you need a good idea of where to go. Let us guide you on the best beaches in Canggu.
There’s more to the beaches in Canggu
Nightclub shots to coworking coffee
Bali is known for its beaches. But even so, we think Canggu trumps the rest with this former fishing town now a hotspot on the Bali scene. This unassuming strip of coast, 10 km south of Kuta city, is perfect for surfing. A whole bohemian vibe has grown around people who bring their boards and homemade necklaces out to play. Which means there’s a lot to do when you’re out of the water too. Canggu nightlife is awesome, while remote workers often gather in bars and on beanbags, extending their trip as long as they can.
What you’ll find on a Canggu beach
Social delights without mad crowds
Unlike Seminyak, which can feel like you’re fighting for an inch of towel space, the sands here aren’t as busy. The Canggu atmosphere is more chilled, easy-going, and considerate too. There are beach clubs like Finns and COMO to mingle with other travellers. But between the Canggu surf dudes, kids and couples are everywhere as well. Everyone is wrapped up in the idea of taking time for themselves, slowly, until the bar or restaurant calls.
There are dozens of cafes, massage parlours, and yoga studios for anyone who loves to ease in and out of being a digital nomad. All of this culminates in a relaxed Canggu nightlife that can get wilder if you want it to. Techno and hip-hop club events are often held throughout the week.
When should you visit beaches in Canggu, Bali? The weather is more predictable from May to October, although you can hit the sands anytime in the year. Just be wary of November to February. Heavy rains tend to clear quickly, but you’ll be running back and forth to a parasol often.
8 standout Canggu beaches
There is almost 10 km of coastline to explore and fall in love with in Canggu. Whether surfboards or sun loungers are your thing, we’ve got a few suggestions of where to start. These are the must-see Canggu attractions worth your time.
Echo Beach
A fierce ocean hideout
Location: 20 km from Ngurah Rai Airport
With dark sand and pounding surf, Echo Beach isn’t for everyone. Yet there’s a rugged charm to one of Bali’s more famous beaches, which is less developed than other icons in Canggu. Surf schools can give you a safe welcome to the waves if you want to learn or raise your game. The COMO Uma Canggu has a table ready with unbelievable food when you’re done.
Batu Bolong Beach
Youthful energy on black sands
Location: 16 km from Ngurah Rai Airport
Travelling with your friends or a surfing crew? Batu Bolong Beach is unmissable – 20-and-30-somethings gather here like migrating turtles, taking their turns on the crashing water. Old Man’s, a legendary Bali bar, is right on the beachfront, staging late-night live performances and international DJs.
Nelayan Beach
Quietude and street art
Location: 15 km from Ngurah Rai Airport
The ocean isn’t the only thing spraying the scene in Bali. Shacks, shops, and street corners just off Nelayan Beach are covered in graffiti — the good kind! Kite surfing is also popular on the beach itself when the winds are up. Otherwise, you’ll see honeymooners strolling up and down as the sun goes down.
Berawa Beach
Perfect for downtime
Location: 14 km from Ngurah Rai Airport
Just 10 minutes’ walk from Echo Beach, there’s a supremely calm strip of sand that’s also great for water sports. Berawa is a blast for families that prefer the shade and light paddling, while newbie surfers can practice all day without choppy conditions. The best surf breaks are on the northern point of this Canggu beach.
Pererenan Beach
A growing treat for travellers
Location: 16 km from Ngurah Rai Airport
Pererenan is a seaside village that more and more tourists are stumbling upon. You’ll find fantastic food in Canggu right here, including paella from Pescado Bali and an Avocado Factory breakfast in the breeze. Traditional rice fields lie off the shore — another sign that Pererenan is still more authentically Balinese than other beaches in the area.
Seseh Beach
Another village north of Canggu
Location: 20 km from Ngurah Rai Airport
Tired of riding a board? Swap it for a horse at sunset — one of Seseh’s rural pleasures. You might struggle to eat out after, but if you have a villa here you get your own private chef. A short drive up the coast will take you to the Pura Tanah Lot temple.
Mengening Beach
Perch while the sun sets
Location: 21 km from Ngurah Rai Airport
Another black sand gem, head to its rocks which make natural seats for dusk or dawn. It’s more of a cove, with no commercial presence apart from the small stalls (warungs) selling drinks and snacks. One for solo time, we reckon.
Pantai Lima
The luxurious, private choice
Location: 17 km from Ngurah Rai Airport
Five villas. Four acres. A tennis court. Countless chances to be left breathless because of its beauty. Pantai Lima is the next-level choice for beaches in Canggu. It’s a private estate right on the water’s edge, with palm trees that reach higher than a dream. Rentals start from almost $1,400 AUD per night.
Top tips:
Rent a scooter: You can pick one up for the day cheaply, almost anywhere.
Drink bottled water: ‘Bali belly’ could ruin your plans!
Don’t pay for beach access: If anyone says there’s a fee to enter, they’re ripping you off.
They call Bali the Land of the Gods, and the beaches in Canggu never disappoint. So, grab your swimwear, towel, and board and dive into the beauty of Bali.
Thinking of travelling to Canggu? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.
