Words by Savirra Alaydroes
Ah, Bali. It seems that this is a destination that will never lose its charm as cool spots are popping throughout the island every day. One of the most happening areas in Bali is Canggu, where nowadays it’s a haven for digital nomads, yogis, and surfers. Don’t be surprised by how laid back the ambience there is, Canggu will also offer you the hippest parties you’ll find on the island.
Having been around Canggu for a few months, I’ve noticed that there are not many cultural sites you can find like other notable regions in Bali, e.g. Ubud. If you prefer to see the green, tropical landscape, this is not your place. However, that doesn’t mean the Gu – that’s how the locals call it – will leave you feeling ‘meh’ once you’re done exploring. It offers spots or activities to explore that you can do even if you have a limited time. Here is an itinerary for a day in Canggu you’ll wish to repeat the moment you leave for your next destination:
6 AM to 12 PM
I know you’re on your holiday, but believe me when I say there’s no regret on waking up early while you’re in Canggu! There are places that cater to the early risers, amassing crowd as early as 6 AM. You can opt to join some yoga classes spread all over Canggu, or head to Berawa or Echo beach to surf. Beginner surfers won’t have to feel left out as you can find surf lessons offered here as well.
Not in the mood for yoga or surfing? Canggu is haven for café hoppers. This is where you can easily find healthy or scrumptious vegan menus. I recommend Peloton Supershop in Berawa area – a plant-based food restaurant and bicycle store well beloved in the ‘Gu; their offerings will even tempt meat lovers. My top pick for breakfast would be The Hash Stack and paired with Da Coco (combo of iced coconut water and lime) to balance the savoury meal.
Peloton Supershop ©pergidulu.com
Another popular breakfast spot is the CRATE Cafe, a place that never seems to know a quiet day. Their price is VERY affordable with the portion you get. With IDR 55k, try their varieties of Super Bowl menu and your tongue will be pleased by how tasty and fresh the ingredients are. While you’re there, head to their gallery to feast your eyes on cool arts and the Concept, Crate’s curated boutique store, to check out their selections of local brands. A little shopping post-breakfast, why not?
12 PM to 6 PM
When the sun is baking the top of your head, cool yourself down with a nice glass of iced coffee while planning your evening ahead. Head to Cook & Baker by Aurora if you fancy pairing your coffee with some sweet treats, such as their signature Cinnamon Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting and Banoffee Cheesecake Pie. For the lactose intolerants, fret not as this is also a place for you! Aurora is the wizard behind many iconic vegan treats in Canggu and her place provides gluten-free options without sacrificing the taste. Other coffee joints to try are Dharma Coffee & Juice and Bali Buda Canggu, located in Padang Linjong street that spills down to Echo Beach.
Cook and Baker by Aurora
If you’re not a coffee person, may I suggest you pamper yourself with a massage session or a full spa treatment? Therapy offers a variant of treatment packages from head to toe. Take your time relaxing and being pampered before hitting iconic Canggu spots next.
Once the clock hits 4.30 PM, make your way to the beach to enjoy sundown. The Lawn in Batu Bolong Beach and La Brisa in Echo Beach are perfect to treat yourself to drinks while soaking in the atmosphere. These two places offer a different sunset-watching experience, so pick your poison: picnic-by-the-beach mode or Balinese fishermen rustic home decor before heading to one.
The Lawn © Thebalibible.com
Or if you feel like having sands between your toes while watching the sun sets, Berawa beach has plenty of beach bars with bean bags offering affordable bites. Here’s a tip: Make sure you don’t miss out on the grilled corn while you’re there!
6PM ‘til late!
Ready to paint Canggu red? Pregame by trying out some of the best dining spots in Canggu. My pick would be Milu by Nook; its pasta and cocktails still give me sweet dreams.
Milu by Nook©thebalibible.com
Craving Mexican? Lacalita y Cocina is your place to go. If you happen to be there on Tuesday night, don’t miss out on Taco Tuesdays promo of all-day taco and margarita for IDR 150,000++!
But for those who prefer to save up for the late-night fun, there are enough budget-friendly spots to go around. I’m telling you, Canggu’s pride Warung Varuna will live up to your expectation. Local’s favourite Nasi Campur gets people queuing up for this popular Indonesian-style buffet. Fork up IDR 20,000 and your tummy will groan with happiness.
Folk and reggae lovers, X-Bar is where you should gather as they showcase the finest Bali bands you won’t want to miss. If you’re in the mood for some underground party experience, Vault at Tamora Gallery will take you to another height with one of the best Gu’s night scenes. Most of Canggu spots will mellow out around 1 or 2 AM, but if you want to dance the night, dawn, and morning away, Sandbar at Batu Bolong Beach is your best bet. Take off your footwear and feel the wave as you move to the tune of the DJ’s choice.
Sandbar©thehoneycombers.com
Peloton Supershop
Jl. Pantai Berawa No.46, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Opening hours: 7.30 AM-10 PM
Menu starts from IDR 35,000
CRATE Cafe
Jalan Canggu Padang Linjong, Canggu, Kuta Utara, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80351
Opening hours: 6 AM-5 PM
Menu starts from IDR 35,000
Cook & Baker by Aurora
Jl. Raya Semat, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Opening hours: 8 AM-6 PM
Menu starts from IDR 25,000
Dharma Coffee & Juice Canggu
Jl. Padang Linjong No.74 B, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80351
Opening hours: 8 AM-3 PM
Menu starts from IDR 30,000
Bali Buda Canggu
Canggu, North Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80351
Opening hours: 8 AM-10 PM
Menu starts from around IDR 30,000
Therapy
Echo Beach, Canggu, North Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361
Opening hours: 10 AM-6 PM
Package starts from IDR 170,000
The Lawn
Jl. Pura Dalem, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Opening hours: 10 AM-11 PM
Menu starts from IDR 50,000
La Brisa
Jl. Pantai Batu Mejan, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Opening hours: 7 AM-11 PM
Menu starts from IDR 50,000
Milu by Nook
Jl. Pantai Berawa No. 90 XO, Canggu, Kuta, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Opening hours: 8 AM-11 PM
Menu starts from IDR 50,000
Lacalita y Cocina
Pantai Batu Bolong Street No.68, Canggu, North Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361
Opening hours: 10 AM-12 AM
Menu starts from IDR 50,000
Warung Varuna
Pantai Batu Bolong Street No.89x, Canggu, North Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali
Opening hours: 8 AM-10 PM
Menu starts from IDR 15,000
X-Bar
Pantai Batu Bolong Street No.117, Canggu, North Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali
Opening hours: 12 PM-2 AM
Vault
Jl. Pantai Berawa No.99, Tibubeneng, Badung, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Opening hours: 8 PM-3 AM
Sandbar
Pantai Batu Bolong Street, Canggu, North Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361
Opening hours: 24 hours
