For many people coming to Bali, they see these amazing videos and pictures on social media and are drawn to the beauty of Indonesia immediately.
The problem is that most of these posts do not say exactly what part of Bali they are staying in. Bali is a 95-mile-wide island, that’s huge!
When I decided to stay a month in Bali, I knew I wanted to be in the area where the digital nomads live, so I could get a sense of what day-to-day life would be like if I ever decide to stay there long term. So I settled on Canggu.
I will break down which area to book your Bali Canggu hotel in, if you are looking to stay in the nomad and expat area of Bali.
Understanding Canggu
Canggu isn’t one tiny village – it’s a spread-out beach town with several neighborhoods. Each area offers something different, and your experience depends on where you stay.
As a warning, the traffic is TERRIBLE in Canggu. Even on a grab scooter or driving yourself, it can take up to 30 minutes just to go a few miles.
I found myself staying in the same neighborhood to eat dinner each night, just to avoid needing to get on a scooter. I booked an apartment that was a 30-minute walk to all of the main beach clubs.
Here is my breakdown of the three main areas of Canggu so you can decide what type of adventure you want to have.
Batu Bolong: The Heart of Canggu Life
Batu Bolong has many of the places you’ve seen online. Think beach clubs like The Lawn, trendy cafes, and tons of shops.
It’s busy, loud, and chaotic. You’ll hear scooters 24/7 and likely deal with traffic jams even if you’re walking. Check out my guide on what the Canggu beach really looks like before you decide to stay here.
Still, you won’t need transport if you pick a Bali Canggu hotel in this area. The clubs, restaurants, all the smoothie bowls you can eat, and shops are all within walking distance.
Berawa: Great for Digital Nomads and Foodies
Berawa is just south of Batu Bolong and feels a little more spread out. It’s home to Finns Beach Club, one of Bali’s most famous spots.
This area is popular with digital nomads thanks to coworking spaces like SOKOOL and cafes like Nude and Ruko that allow you to work from the cafe. There are also a few large gyms like Level Up.
Berawa still has traffic issues. It’s not fully walkable unless you stay very central, near Jalan Pantai Berawa.
There’s also a great mix of Bali Canggu hotels and villas in Berawa.
Pererenan: Quieter, Local, and Closer to Ubud
Pererenan is north of Batu Bolong and feels like the last “local” part of Canggu. It’s quieter, has rice fields, and fewer tourists. However, it still has bad traffic.
This is the best area if you want peace but still want to dip your toes into the Canggu lifestyle. It’s also closer to Ubud, making day trips easier.
The beach here is chill with local warungs instead of beach clubs. Accommodation in Pererenan tends to be more boutique-style villas and smaller Bali hotels Canggu options.
It is also home to my favorite cinnamon bun bake shop, CINNAMOR.
Pro Tip for Traveling to Bali
Several documents and fees are required before entering Bali. Make sure you take care of them before arrival to skip several lines at the airport.
In addition to the visa, you need to fill out a Health Pass, Customs Declaration, and pay the Love Bali tax.
Is Canggu Really for You? Consider Ubud or Uluwatu Instead
If you came to Bali dreaming of temples, nature, or cliffside beaches, then you’re looking in the wrong place.
Canggu is for partygoers and people who want to work remotely by day and party by night. It is at least an hour’s + drive to the famous social media spots.
Here are two other areas you may want to consider for your Bali visit: Ubud and Uluwatu.
Why You Might Love Ubud
Ubud is the spiritual and cultural heart of Bali. It’s surrounded by jungle, rice terraces, and waterfalls.
Ubud is what you see on social media, the temples, the swings, etc. All of the images are staged, you wait in long lines and pay for the pretty dresses, to take the same picture that you see online, as everyone else.
Top attractions include the Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Tirta Empul Water Temple, and the Campuhan Ridge Walk.
You can see many of these attractions all in one day with either a private driver or a tour on GetYourGuide.com. My driver’s name was Edi (WhatsApp is +62 (881- 0371-99710).
Ubud is good for yoga lovers, spiritual seekers, and nature enthusiasts. Accommodation in Ubud ranges from budget homestays to luxury jungle resorts.
This is where many of the wellness retreats are held as well.
Why Uluwatu Might Be Your Dream
Uluwatu offers some of the best beaches and cliffs in Bali. It’s also home to the famous Kecak Fire Dance Show, pictured above.
This area is much quieter and more family-friendly. I should have stayed in this area for the month in Bali, instead of Canggu, but that will just have to wait until my next visit.
Must-see spots include Uluwatu Temple, Padang Padang Beach, Suluban (Blue Point) Beach, and Single Fin Beach Club. You can book most of these on GetYourGuide.com.
Accommodation in Uluwatu includes cliffside resorts and boutique beach hotels.
Bali Quick Tips
- Water Safety: Tap water is not safe to drink. Most hotels and restaurants provide filtered water.
- Currency: Idonesian Rupiah (IDR)
- Bring Cash: Most smaller shops, cafes, and drivers prefer cash. However, most establishments and delivery apps accept credit cards.
- Language: Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) is the national language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
- Visa: Check this website to see if you need a visa or not.
- Forms and Fees: In addition to the visa, you need to fill out a Health Pass and Customs Declaration and pay the Love Bali tax.
- Bathroom Etiquette: Do not flush toilet paper. Use the provided bin.
- Scooter Safety: Scooters are the primary way to get around, but driving is chaotic.
- Tipping Etiquette: Many restaurants add a 5-10% service charge as tipping is not customary in Bali.
- Be Prepared for Traffic: Bali’s roads can be very congested, especially around tourist hubs like Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud. Allow extra time for travel.
- Book in Advance: Popular activities (like temple tours or sunrise hikes) and accommodations fill up quickly in peak season.
Still Want to Stick It Out in Canggu?
If you are still committed to staying in Canggu, then here are three Bali Canggu hotels I can recommend.
There are so many places to stay, packed tight into the Canggu area. It would be impossible for me to list them all, as I was only there for a month.
Here are a few options for you that are close to the main clubs, coworking spaces, and gyms.
1. Ecozy Dijiwa Canggu – (Center)
Set among rice fields in the quiet village of Tumbak Bayuh, this inland hotel offers a relaxing base closer to Ubud.
- Price range: $60 to $100 USD per night
- Distance to Beach: 5-minute scooter ride/26-minute walk
- Vibe: Boutique, peaceful, and perfect for couples or solo travelers
- Book: Ecozy Dijiwa Canggu
2. Koa D’Surfer Hotel – Berawa (South Canggu)
Koa D’Surfer is ideal if you want to work by day, surf by sunset, and grab dinner nearby without the chaos of Batu Bolong. This is a great option for digital nomads or short-term travelers.
- Price Range: Approximately $32 to $68 USD per night.
- Distance to Beach: 10-minute walk to Berawa Beach
- Vibe: Fun, surf-inspired, and budget-friendly without feeling cheap
- Book: Koa D’Surfer Hotel
3. Shore Amora Canggu – Pererenan (Northwest)
Shore Amora gets you out of the madness and gives you quick access to Ubud. If you want the option to chill or explore, this is your place.
- Price Range: Approximately $130 to $190 USD per night.
- Distance to Beach: 5-minute walk to Pererenan Beach
- Vibe: Boutique, peaceful, and perfect for couples or solo travelers
- Book: Shore Amora Canggu
Final Tips Before You Book
Before you book your Bali Canggu Hotel, I hope you take my advice and really think about what type of trip you want to have.
Want nightlife and beach clubs? Book Batu Bolong. Need coworking and food variety? Head to Berawa. Prefer peace and quicker day trips to Ubud? Stay in Pererenan.
Remember, Bali traffic is no joke. The closer you stay to what you want to do—whether it’s work, surf, or party—the happier you’ll be.
If your Bali dreams include temples, cliffs, or jungles, skip Canggu entirely and head to Ubud or Uluwatu.
But if you still want to give Canggu a shot, now you know exactly where to start!
Accommodation in Canggu FAQ
What area of Canggu is best to stay in?
Batu Bolong is best for nightlife, Berawa for remote work and food, and Pererenan for peace and easier day trips.
Is it worth it to stay in Canggu?
It’s worth it if you want beach clubs, nightlife, and a digital nomad lifestyle, but not for culture or nature.
Should I stay in Canggu or Ubud?
Choose Ubud for temples, jungle views, and cultural experiences; choose Canggu for beach clubs, cafes, and surfing.
Is it better to stay in Uluwatu or Canggu?
Uluwatu is better for surfing, cliffs, and sunset views, while Canggu is better for social life and coworking spaces.
Is it better to stay in Canggu or Seminyak?
Seminyak is more polished and resort-focused, while Canggu feels younger, trendier, and more laid-back.
How many days in Canggu is enough?
Two to four days is usually enough to experience the beach clubs, cafes, and nightlife before exploring other areas.
Is traffic really that bad in Canggu?
Yes, traffic can be extremely frustrating, especially around Batu Bolong and Berawa during peak hours.
Can I walk to everything in Canggu?
Only if you stay in central Batu Bolong or Berawa; otherwise, you’ll need a scooter or ride service to get around.
Which area of Canggu is closest to Ubud?
Pererenan is the northernmost area of Canggu, making it the best option for easier trips to Ubud.
Are there cultural attractions in Canggu?
Canggu is more about lifestyle than culture, so you’ll need to visit Ubud or Uluwatu for temples and traditional sights.
