Once you land in Denpasar your first stop MUST be Canggu. This little hidden gem has everything you need to start your Bali trip on the right. From delicious (healthy) eats, instaworthy cafes, serene rice terraces, surfing and of course some fabulous boutiques.
Canggu is a dream. What used to be “off the beaten path” in the middle of rice fields is soon becoming the hot spot in Bali. Though it has grown in popularity it still posses an old world charm and uniqueness you can’t find anywhere else. Oh and did I mention the food….oh the food!
DWELL:
- Airbnb: Romantic – Stylish High End Villa– This place was PHENOMENAL.
- Location: Quiet and serene. Situated on rice Terrances off the main/busy roads, yet incredibly accessible to anything you may need.
- Bed: Very comfortable and clean and Air conditioned! Fell in love with the bedding, in fact we using it as Inspo for redecorating our master suite.
- Host: They go above and beyond to make you feel at home and stress free. Transportation was arranged for when we landed. They met us at the villa to explain everything and even had a motorbike waiting upon our arrival.
- Amenities: Blue tooth sound system, A/C, everything you need to cook; which we never did because the food in Canggu is incredible (and I’m a pretty horrible cook), recommendations, yoga, in house masses, and much more.
NOSH & LIBATIONS:
There is NO shortage of amazing food in Bali! There is something for everyone and every dietary preference. I would absolutely try some of the local dishes as well as venture out to try some of the worlds best vegan and vegetarian fare.
Breakfast/Lunch – There are so many places that have breakfast served all day; which is my favorite meal of the day. In Bali breakfast and lunch seem to meld together. For example, açaí bowls are so fresh and are a perfect breakfast or snack. You can literally eat them all day every day!
- Crate Cafe – This is a Canggu staple, but get there early because the line can get insane
- The Shady Shack – one of our favorite places in Canggu. We ate there multiple times within our short stay. Must orders:
- The Loft Canggu – located in the heart of Canggu with a focus on plant based deliciousness. We took a break and enjoyed a delicious latte and some veggie tacos. Great ambiance and people watching. Perfect place to grab a bite as you explore
LUNCH:
- Moana Fish Eatery- This was our first stop. Quaint fish house that did not disappoint for our first meal. I opted for the fresh ahi tuna and Jerome ordered the poke bowl. Must try.
- Penny Lane – The newest on the list and it is a MUST see. The ambiance is gorgeous and there tapas and cocktails are even better!
DINNER:
- Essential – Really cool concept of infusing essential oils in with the food, drink, and even the water. Vegan fare that is beyond delicious and the cocktails are phenomenally crafted, We ordered:
Coffee Shops:
To be honest literally everywhere you look you will find a coffee shop in Canggu. I love the face that everything is made with Coconut milk, so there are TONS of non-dairy options! My go-to is of course a coconut milk matcha latte, and I love that most of the time they are not sweetened so you are able to add as much or as little as you would like.
SHOP:
Canggu is full of some amazing shopping and boutiques and it is continuing to expand by the day. You can get anything from breezy dresses, purses, and amazing home decor. I highly recommend packing light and buying some easy breezy dresses during your stay. We picked up some some fantastic tie dye dresses and beautiful beaded jewelry. Word of advice…BARGAIN!
- Bazaar (love anchor)– This is the little Market located off in the heart of Canggu. You will find everything from swimwear, local dresses, jewelry to house hold items. TIP : Bargain!!!
- Monsieur blonde – Jewelry and lingerie. This place is a bit pricier than the local shops, but it is worth it. I snagged an incredibly ornate opal piece that is so unique. You must check it out!
- Check out Salt in Our Hair for a full list of some incredible shopping ideas. They really nail it for some of the best shopping guides.
DO:
There are unlimited amazing things to do in Canggu. Everything from surf, explore, party, or just relax.
TRAVEL TIP = > Take a scooter to Seminyak for the day. We choose to not stay here, but it is full of great food, resorts, shopping and partying (DO NOT DRINK AND SCOOT)
- Rent a scooter- most airbnbs and hotels can arrange a scooter for you, but if not they are readily available everywhere and for CHEAP! it is a GREAT way to get around and see the area and surroundings. It allows easy on the go access to everything. Just drive slow and with precaution and ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET. There are no traffic rules in Bali so stay safe! If you don’t feel comfortable navigating a scooter check out GoJEK to get from place to place. A scooter will save you time and money as traffic is INSANE!!
- Surf Lessons – Canggu is the perfect location for those who are beginners to the surf scene.
- Day Clubs –
- The Lawn – Perfect location to get a day bed, nosh on some delicious eats and enjoy a glass of rose all while watching some of the most breathtaking sunsets I have ever seen!
- TRAVEL TIP – Get a day bed if you plan to spend the afternoon at a Day club. It is very inexpensive and I can guarantee you will spend the amount required to reserve one. Plus, its fantastic to have a place to set your stuff and even take an afternoon siesta.
- Old Mans – legendary beach club in Canggu. More laid back relaxed feel then the other beach clubs in the area
- Finns – upscale beach club with great food, music and people watching
- The Lawn – Perfect location to get a day bed, nosh on some delicious eats and enjoy a glass of rose all while watching some of the most breathtaking sunsets I have ever seen!
