The original article was published by BreathingTravel.com. Read HERE.
Writer: Carolin
It’s no secret that I love the little coastal town of Canggu. It may as well be my favourite place to visit when travelling to Bali.
Laid-back, hip surfer-style and a little bit boho, yep, that’s Canggu! Eat healthy vegetarian food, read a good book in one of the many cafés, go for a yoga or pilates class and catch a few waves at sunset, life doesn’t get better than this. There are many great things to do in Canggu.
As the popularity of this coastal Bali paradise continues to soar, so does the variety of accommodations available. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll help you navigate the best areas to stay in Canggu and handpick the best Canggu hotels to ensure your stay in this tropical haven is nothing short of extraordinary.
Whether you’re a beach bum, a digital nomad, or a wellness enthusiast, Canggu has something to offer everyone, and we’re here to help you find the perfect place to call home during your visit.
Batu Bolong Beach: Batu Bolong, often dubbed the heart of Canggu, is a vibrant and busy area offering a diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels. The beach is a stone’s throw away, making it ideal for beach lovers and those who want to be in the center of the action.
Berawa Beach: Berawa is a thriving area in Canggu on the other side of the “Canggu shortcut”, that strikes a balance between trendy and tranquil. This area is popular for its upscale villas and resorts, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a more refined and relaxed atmosphere. It’s close to Berawa Beach and its breaks, renowned beach clubs like Finns and Atlas Beach Club, and a burgeoning dining scene.
Echo Beach: Echo Beach is a haven for surf enthusiasts and seafood lovers. With its iconic black sand beach and a growing number of boutique hotels, it’s perfect for those looking to ride the waves and enjoy the freshest catches of the day at the beachfront restaurants, including La Brisa Beach Club.
Pererenan Beach: Pererenan offers a more serene and rustic experience compared to its busier neighbors. Only a few narrow “shortcuts” through rice fields lead from Echo Beach to Pererenan, otherwise coming by car, you always have to take the trip along Jalan Raya Canggu, which serves as a bustling artery connecting the various neighborhoods. Pererenan is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a quieter stay, with a mix of rice field views and villas tucked away in the lush countryside.
Inland on the other side of Jalan Raya Canggu: This area is a little off the beaten path, providing a different perspective of Canggu. It’s characterized by traditional Balinese villages, rice paddies, and a sense of tranquility. Accommodations here range from charming guesthouses to luxury retreats, offering a unique, authentic experience for your stay in Canggu Bali. There’s an increasing range of cafes and restaurants to be found here as well.
Alternative beyond Canggu – Seseh Beach: Seseh Beach offers a much more serene and authentic Balinese experience for those seeking to escape Canggu without being too far from it to enjoy its cafes. It’s less crowded than other areas of Canggu, with accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to private villas. Seseh Beach is perfect for those who want to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Bali’s west coast without any crowds.
1. Where to stay in Canggu for the first time: Batu Bolong/Canggu’s Main Street
The main part of Canggu can be found along Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong, which is considered the main street of Canggu.It runs from the big main artery called Jalan Raya Canggu, which crosses Bali, towards the ocean and Batu Bolong Beach, where it ends at the iconic Old Man’s.
FYI: Be aware that Canggu is growing fast and there is a lot of construction around central Canggu. I suggest you read current reviews of any of the hotels mentioned to find the best Canggu hotel without being surprised by construction noise.
Best area to stay for:
- First-timers to Canggu
- Couples
- Nightlife
- Fancy restaurants
- Easily walkable, no scooter necessary (yes, paved sidewalks have arrived in this part of Canggu!)
Best things to do in Batu Bolong Beach:
- Market shopping at Love Anchor
- Browse the many beautiful boutique shops
- Eat breakfast at Shady Shack, lunch at Milk & Madu and dinner at Bottega Italiana
- Hang out at The Lawn infinity pool
- Get pampered at one of the many spas
- Watch the sunset from JI Restaurant rooftop bar
- Party the night away at Old Man’s, Luigi’s and Sand Bar
Best hotels in Batu Bolong Beach
Luxury: Hotel Tugu Bali
One of the best luxury hotels in Canggu, staying at Hotel Tugu Bali was absolute perfection. Not only do you get to stay right in the heart of Canggu and a stone’s throw away from the surf breaks of Batu Bolong Beach, but the hotel itself is a stunning museum as it hosts Balinese, Javanese and Asian artifacts which gives the hotel such a romantic touch!
All suites are set within private gardens. Dip into the outdoor swimming pool or your own private pool if you book a suite on the ground floor. Then, splurge on cocktails and delicious food at JI Restaurant and watch the sunset from the rooftop. I absolutely loved staying at Hotel Tugu.