There are more than 17,000 islands in Indonesia, but Bali is the bucket-list destination. Popularised by the social media feeds of the Instagram elite, this island is instantly recognizable for its luscious greenery and turquoise waters. Uluwatu and Canggu are two of Bali’s best destinations. Wondering which one to visit? We’ve done the research for you. Read on to find out whether Uluwatu or Canggu is the destination for you.
Before we get into specifics, let’s get to the grips with the basics of each destination. Uluwatu is on the south-western tip of Bali’s Bukit peninsula. It rose to notoriety in the 1970s as a surfing hotspot, and has been well known amongst the global surfing community ever since. Nowadays, it’s home to some of Bali’s most luxurious resorts, as well as a wide range of pristine sandy beaches.
Canggu, on the other hand, is a coastal village also in the south of Bali. Its long stretches of beaches and vibrant green rice fields have attracted the attention of the expat community, and it’s become a hub of digital nomads and backpackers. From places to stay to things to do, let’s see how the two destinations measure up.
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Uluwatu or Canggu: Accommodation
Every great holiday begins with the perfect place to stay, and Bali has an abundance of beautiful hotels, holiday rentals and hostels. Uluwatu is one of the island’s most luxurious destinations. Clifftop resorts with private beaches have earned this area the nickname Billionaire’s Row. The Bulgari Resort, Bali is the perfect example. With expansive views of the Indian Ocean and a private beach accessible only via elevator, this clifftop resort is the pinnacle of luxury in Bali. But it will set you back a cool $1,000 a night!
If like most of us, your budget doesn’t stretch so far, there is affordable accommodation nearby. The Sun and Surf stay, right on Bingin Beach is a great find for beachheads and surfers. Meanwhile for backpackers on a budget, there are ample hostels, many of which have their own swimming pools. Bali Beats Guest House and Uluwatu Backpackers are our faves. All in all, Uluwatu has a good range of accommodation, ranging from high-end, to affordable.
What Uluwatu has in luxury, Canggu has in laid-back, low-key vibes: think boutique hotels, low-rise villas and eco resorts. A yoga hotspot, you’ll find multiple retreats in this part of Bali. Ecosfera is a great stay for traditional Balinese hospitality, as well as daily yoga classes. Canggu has a strong backpacker scene, meaning you’ll find plenty of high quality hostels in this part of the island. Dip and Doze Hostel is a popular choice due to its superb location just 800 yards from Berawa Beach. On the other end of the spectrum, there’s COMO Uma Canggu. A recent addition to the area, this 5* hotel is one of the only luxury resorts in Canggu. It boasts one of Bali’s best spas.
So, which of our chosen destinations comes out on top accommodation-wise, Uluwatu or Canggu? Ultimately, the answer comes down to the vibe you prefer. Are you going to Bali for its world-class luxury? If so, Uluwatu is probably the destination for you. But if you’re after something a bit more laidback, bohemian, and cheaper, Canggu’s your spot.
Uluwatu or Canggu: Price
Bali made its name as a budget-friendly destination, but the recent explosion of tourism to the island has somewhat hiked prices up. This doesn’t mean it’s not possible to have a cheap holiday in Bali – it all depends on the types of places you decide to visit. So Uluwatu or Canggu, which destination stands out in terms of affordability?
Considering Uluwatu’s aforementioned nickname – Billionaire’s Row – you might be able to answer this question for yourself. Uluwatu has a reputation as one of the island’s most premium spots. According to an analysis by Champion Traveler, an average week in Uluwatu as a solo traveler sets you back between $1,101 and $2,989, factoring in food, accommodation, entertainment and flights.
A number of factors contribute to Uluwatu’s higher price tag. Besides its tendency for luxury accommodation, there are also lots of Western-style restaurants in this area, with much higher prices than you can expect at your more traditional, Balinese joints. In order to get around Uluwatu’s many different beaches and clifftop locations, most people hire a scooter, which is another expense to consider when visiting Uluwatu.
Canggu, on the other hand, is slightly more affordable. Its reputation as a backpacking hub has given rise to accommodation and restaurants catering towards lower budgets. Champion Traveler predicts that an average week in Canggu will cost you between $782 and $2,665 as a solo traveler. Of course, this is all very dependent on where you stay, which restaurants you go to, and how much you spend on entertainment. But in either Uluwatu or Canggu, if you eat at local Balinese places, opt for villas instead of resorts, and spend your days on the beach, you should keep things fairly cheap.
Uluwatu or Canggu: Food
Bali has a rich and varied culinary tradition that draws influence from many different parts of the world, including China, India, Malaysia and Australia. Classic Indonesian cuisine appears alongside Western-inspired fare in the island’s many cafes, bars and restaurants. It’s also a great culinary destination for vegans and vegetarians, who are spoilt for choice with the island’s vast selection of plant-powered kitchens.
The beaches and clifftops of Uluwatu are awash with great places to eat. You’ll find an ample selection of cafes, serving up everything from brightly-colored Buddha bowls to tacos and Indonesian classics like Nasi Goreng. Campur Campur, in the heart of Uluwatu, is an inexpensive spot for some seriously delicious local cuisine. Bukit Café’s vibrant, meat-free menu satisfies even the most devoted of carnivores, while the tacos at Mango Tree are an absolute must. As you would expect, there are also a good few high-end, fine dining spots in Uluwatu housed in the area’s luxury resorts.
There’s a fair amount of overlap between the two destinations’ food scenes. A few of Uluwatu’s restaurants, such as The Loft, even have sister restaurants in Canggu. Due to Canggu’s popularity with expats, there’s a fair amount of international cuisine to be found in this part of Bali. From Pho at Leroy’s Vietnamese, to pizza in Milk and Madu, you can eat your way around the world in Canggu. Be sure to stop at The Give Cafe, where all profits go to charity.
So Uluwatu or Canggu, which destination takes the biscuit when it comes to eating out? As far as we’re concerned, it’s even stevens. Both destinations boast a rich variety of different cuisines.
Uluwatu or Canggu: Activities
Before the billionaires arrived, Uluwatu first became popular for its extraordinary surf breaks. As such, people come to this part of the island mainly for the beach – and there are many to choose from. Bingin Beach and Dreamland Beach are two of the tourist hot spots, but if you’re a bit more adventurous, there are plenty of more private stretches of sand to explore in Uluwatu. If you can brave the trek down to the sea, Nunggalan Beach offers vast stretches of white sand. There’s also the remains of a shipwreck wedged into the sand, which makes for a great pic!
Aside from surfing and beach-hopping, there are a few interesting cultural sights in Uluwatu. Uluwatu temple is the main attraction of this variety. This stunning cliff-top temple is over 1,000 years old, and is a great place to spot monkeys. Uluwatu is also home to Single Fin, one of Bali’s legendary beach clubs. Tourists and residents alike flock here at dusk to sip cocktails and listen to live music on the venue’s ocean-view balcony.
If you’re easily bored of beaches, there’s plenty to do in Canggu besides sunbathing and surfing. The ancient Hindu shrine of Tanah Lot is a particular highlight. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the temple offers brilliant views of the Indian Ocean, and a chance to learn about the cultural heritage of Bali.
For fans of more recent culture, why not take a tour of Canggu’s vibrantly decorated streets? There’s plenty of interesting street art to discover. You’ll also find yoga classes, cookery workshops and plenty of independent boutiques in this vibrant part of the island. If it’s a toss-up between Uluwatu and Canggu when it comes to things to do, we’d say Canggu has the edge. If you’ve come to Bali for an action-packed holiday, we’d point you in the direction of Canggu.
Uluwatu or Canggu: Beaches
Long hailed as one of the best-surfing destinations in the world, it goes without saying that Uluwatu is home to many impressive beaches. From vast stretches of white sand to hidden coves, you could spend a week just exploring the many different seaside spots this part of Bali has to offer. As we’ve already mentioned, Dreamland and Bingin Beach are the tourist favorites.
However, don’t just settle for these. It’s well worth getting away from the crowds and exploring the likes of Pemutih Beach, Thomas Beach and Suluban Beach. Pristine sand, rugged rock formations, and crystal clear waters are what make the beaches of Uluwatu special. It’s worth noting that, due to Uluwatu’s cliff-top location, a lot of Uluwatu’s beaches are accessible only via narrow and steep stairways. The beaches are therefore not the most accessible for those who might have difficulty climbing and descending stairs.
There are five kilometers of coastline to explore in Canggu, with five main beaches. Each one offers something a little different. Surfers will find the best break at the popular Berawa Beach, while Nelayan Beach is the best for swimming. If you’re less concerned about swimming, and more partial to a beach cocktail, Echo Beach has the best range of beachside bars and restaurants. There’s a hidden temple at the end of Batu Bolong Beach, while you’ll find a lovely, secluded zone at the north end of Pererenan Beach.
So are the beaches better in Uluwatu or Canggu? Providing you’re able to manage all the steps, we’d say that Uluwatu has the edge here. It’s the rugged, wilderness of the landscape, combined with the unspoiled and secluded nature of its beaches that truly makes Uluwatu’s coastline so spectacular.
Uluwatu or Canggu: Where is better to visit?
So all in all, Uluwatu or Canggu? Where’s the better destination to visit in Bali? It really depends on what type of traveler you are and what you’re hoping to experience in Bali.
If your idea of the perfect holiday is one split between luxury accommodation and secluded beaches, you’ll probably prefer Uluwatu. Similarly, if you’re seeking out world-leading surf, head to Uluwatu. But if your perfect trip involves interspersing beach days with sightseeing and cultural activities, we’d say you’ll love Canggu. However, Canggu is only a 40-minute taxi journey from Uluwatu. There’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit both!
Hungry for more information on Bali? Check out our guide on some basic balinese phrases.
FAQs
Which is better Canggu or Uluwatu? ›
Canggu was a spot that was pretty busy with tons of shopping, great restaurants, and fun surfing. Uluwatu is a little quieter with beautiful cliffs, great surfing, and some really good restaurants. It's just a little slower pace than Canggu and I loved that!
How many days are enough for Uluwatu? ›While you can come to Uluwatu on a day trip from Kuta or Seminyak to visit the temple, you should really stay longer. For first-timers, give yourself 3 days in Uluwatu to really kick back, beach hop around the peninsula, soak up all that surf vibes and eat at all the trendy places.
Is Uluwatu Bali worth visiting? ›The vibes are immaculate. Even though I had to pack everything into a 3 day itinerary for Uluwatu, I would 100% say that Uluwatu is worth visiting. The community is vibrant, the beaches are so much more beautiful than the ones in Canggu, and it was the perfect start to my three weeks in Bali.
How long should I spend in Canggu? ›If you want to party by night and chill on the beach by day, two weeks is the ideal amount of time. Seminyak, Kuta, and Canggu are all great places for a group trip, as all have lots to see and do. This ensures that every member of your group will be kept happy, and these towns also have plenty in the way of nightlife.
Why is Canggu so popular? ›So why is Canggu so popular? Canggu has it all: The cool cafés of Seminyak, an abundance of healthy food of Ubud (OMG, Canggu now also has a foodie tour!), the green rice fields of Bali's inland and long stretches of beach as long as the eye can see.
Is Canggu worth visiting? ›So, is Canggu worth visiting? Absolutely. This trendy destination has something for everyone, from surfers to foodies to yoga enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a luxurious villa or a budget-friendly hostel, Canggu has plenty of accommodation options to choose from.
Can you walk around Uluwatu? ›This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Uluwatu Temple is located on the cliffside. This ancient Hindu temple is known for its stunning coastal views and traditional dance shows.
Is 1 day enough in Uluwatu? ›A day trip to Uluwatu should be on your must-do list when visiting Bali. The southern part of the island is often overlooked or just visited briefly.
Is it easy to get around Uluwatu? ›The Uluwatu area is big and spread out, so if you want to go exploring all the beaches and such, then you'll need transportation. The main way to get around Uluwatu is to rent a scooter or hire a private car and driver (both of these can be booked online).
What is the nicest area in Bali? ›The best areas to stay in Bali are: Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu, and Kuta. It's best to divide your time and stay a few nights in the top 2 to 3 areas to visit the most beautiful places in Bali.
Which is better Uluwatu or Seminyak? ›
If you do want to have a couple,of days with great food, browsing shops, having some massages etc, stay in Seminyak. If you want to keep on doing outdoor sport type activities staybat Uluwatu. You might find after 6 days you would like a bit of retail therapy and more of a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
What is the most touristy part of Bali? ›Kuta & Legian
Bali's first touristic area, Kuta is known for its stunning beach and great waves. It is one of the most popular areas of Bali. This is where you will find a lot of hustle and bustle, lots of bargain market shopping, beach bars, restaurants, bars, and clubs.
Are Canggu and Seminyak worth visiting? Both Canggu and Seminyak are worth visiting! Canggu's laid-back and bohemian atmosphere, renowned surf breaks, trendy cafes and flourishing yoga scene make it a popular destination for travellers seeking a relaxed coastal vibe.
Is Canggu too busy? ›The Crowds: Canggu is one of the most crowded surf zones in Bali. There will usually be a few shredders or pros in the lineup, but these are usually out-numbered by average to below average level surfers.
Is it safe to walk around Canggu at night? ›Yes, it is safe to walk around most places in Bali at night. You'll be alright if you can avoid drunken tourists and stay away from notorious neighborhoods after dark.
How far is Canggu from uluwatu? ›The distance between Uluwatu and Canggu is 21 km. The road distance is 35.6 km.
What is the best area to stay in Canggu? ›The best areas to stay in Canggu are Berawa Beach and Batu Bolong, the main town in Canggu. In both areas, you can experience traditional Balinese culture, as well as beaches and bars and clubs at night.
When should I go to Canggu? ›To avoid Canggu's crowds but still take advantage of the dry season weather, plan to visit between May and June or between September and October. Budget-conscious travellers will find lower prices for Canggu in November, February and March, as it's the wet season and prices on flights and accommodation tend to drop.
Is it better to stay in Canggu or Ubud? ›Canggu has one thing that Ubud doesn't: Beaches. They're not the best in Bali by any stretch. The sand is largely brown and black volcanic sand, and there's none of that tropical palm covering you get down on the Bukit Peninsular or over on the Gili Islands.
What are the best months to visit Canggu? ›For great weather, visit Canggu between June and August, when humidity and rainfall are at their lowest. That said, this is the peak season, so you'll be paying higher rates for everything. Low season, between January and April, and October and November, is a good time to visit if you're traveling on a budget.
Why is Uluwatu famous? ›
Uluwatu Temple, or Pura Luhur Uluwatu, one of six main temples accepted to be Bali's profound columns, is famous for its heavenly area, roosted on top of a lofty bluff roughly 70 meters above ocean level.
Is there shopping in Uluwatu? ›Uluwatu is not really a shopping destination. However, you can buy some beautiful beach sarongs and more souvenirs from local vendors. You can also drive down to Bali Collection in Nusa Dua – probably the most high-end shopping mall in all of Bali and or can drive to Seminyak just a 40-minute drive away from Uluwatu.
Is Uluwatu Temple free? ›Price: The entrance fee of the temple is 15,000 IDR for local tourists and 30,000 IDR for foreigners visiting Bali.
Which is better Uluwatu or Ubud? ›Each will reveal a very unique side of Bali. In Ubud, you'll delve into the rich and mystical Hindu religiosity of the island, get to shop in authentic bazaars, taste Balinese coffee and chocolate, hit the spa, and wander the rice paddies. In Uluwatu, it's all about the temple and the coastline.
Is Uluwatu better than Nusa Dua? ›As Rarefossil mentioned, Nusa Dua is a private enclave of large resort hotels, not much shopping or action there and Uluwatu is favored by surfers or high end resorts as well. Both are for chilling if you just want a couple of days doing nothing. , You will need to use a driver to take you into Kuta/ Legian.
What is the best time of day to visit Uluwatu? ›The best time to experience Uluwatu Temple is in the evening when the sun goes down to create a wonderful spectrum of colours behind this ancient relic.
How do you get around Uluwatu? ›The best way to get around Uluwatu is by motorbike. You can rent a motorbike for 60.000 IDR per day and explore the entire area. Uluwatu is quiet compared to other areas in Bali, so it shouldn't be too hard to drive around. Other options are Grab, Gojek, Taxi, or hiring a driver in Bali.
How far is Uluwatu from airport? ›The island is serviced by the Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) which is well connected with almost every corner of the world. The resort is a 45-minute southerly drive from the airport.
How much is a taxi from Denpasar to Uluwatu? ›Riding a taxi is usually the fastest way to get from Denpasar Airport to Uluwatu with regular traffic. If it's possible, I'd recommend you to look out for a metered taxi. The fare comes out to be approx. 200k-250k IDR.
Is Canggu a good place to stay? ›Canggu, THE BEST AREA TO STAY IN BALI FOR SURFERS
Canggu is a fishing town located 6 miles from Kuta. Its environment is calmer than Kuta and Seminyak and more oriented towards cultural activities and rest. Along its beaches, there are two centuries-old temples: Pura Batu Bolong and Pura Batu Mejan.
What is the most luxurious city in Bali? ›
Nusa Dua is a true tropical island paradise and the most luxurious area in Bali, with beautiful white sand beaches, great golf courses, and 5-star hotels. The exclusive resort area is great if you've got a higher budget and you want a luxury beach holiday away from the crowds.
Where do the rich live in Bali? ›The gated enclave of Nusa Dua is a hotspot for A-listers. Its exclusivity and peaceful vibes mean it's the perfect place for the rich and famous to escape crowds and the paparazzi. It's also home to plenty of Bali's top celebrity hotels, including The St.
What is Uluwatu like in Bali? ›Sitting high up on the clifftops of Bali's southernmost peninsula, Uluwatu (AKA the Bukit) is where you'll find hidden white-sand bays, rugged natural landscapes and legendary surf breaks, interrupted by a scattering of chic beach clubs, glamorous resorts and plenty of epic cafes and restaurants.
Where not to stay in Bali? ›While Bali really has no-go zones, if you're going for a honeymoon you'll be unhappy in Kuta. If you want good nightlife, you might not want to book a hotel up north. Personally, I wasn't a fan of Sanur at all and that's why I didn't even include it here. Unless you're on a very strict budget, I wouldn't recommend it.
What you should not miss in Bali? ›- A baby monkey in Ubud's Sacred Monkey Forest. Photo by Sebastian Voortman. ...
- Ulun Danu Bratan Temple at sunset. Photo by Aron Visuals. ...
- People wash in the sacred pool at Pura Tirta Empul. Photo by Artem Bali. ...
- Balinese rice terraces. ...
- Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida Island.
Most travelers will agree that 10 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Bali. However, 5 days is the bare minimum if you want to explore more than one area of the island.
What is the best and worst time of year to visit Bali? ›The best time to visit Bali is between April and October when the weather is warm and dry. However, it is also prime tourist season, and hotel and flight prices peak for July/August. The rainy season in Bali occurs between November and March.
Is Canggu a party area? ›Where to Go and What to Do at Night in Canggu. Enjoy the best nightlife in Canggu at beach bars, clubs and hip hotspots spread throughout the coastal area. Canggu's nightlife scene used to be somewhat lower-key compared to neighbouring Seminyak.
Is Canggu a party town? ›Canggu is not only for parties and nightlife, and is probably the best place to be in Bali these days.
Can you swim in Canggu? ›Seseh Beach
We may have named six of the best Canggu beaches, but believe it or not there are plenty of other spots where you can surf, snorkel, spectate, paddle, swim, lie, eat or drink along this brilliant stretch of coast.
Can you walk from Seminyak to Canggu? ›
Yes, you can walk along the beach from Seminyak to Canggu, passing by Petitenget, Batu Belig, and Berawa on the way. It's all pretty much one continuous beach, with occasional small rivers that flow into the ocean.
How do you get around in Canggu? ›Getting around Canggu
The main Canggu streets are Jalan Batu Bolong, Jalan Padang Linjong, Jalan Batu Mejan and Jalan Tanah Barak. The most common way to get around Canggu is by scooter. You can rent a scooter either on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. The longer you rent for, the cheaper it is.
Batu Bolong road is the heart of Canggu. It is also the most developed road and the place you will find the most cafés, restaurants and boutiques. Batu Bolong road leads to Batu Bolong Beach. Here there are many hostels and villas that come in at good value for money.
Do you need cash in Canggu? ›Cash remains king in Bali!
Credit and debit cards are widespread and used in many tourist areas for restaurants, beach clubs, resorts, and shopping. However, many remote businesses and vendors may not accept credit cards for everyday payments like meals or small purchases due to a lack of internet banking.
Unlike Ubud, which is located in the center of Bali and at least an hour from the nearest beaches, Canggu is right on the sand. There are a few different places to lay your towel down, with Echo Beach, Berawa Beach, and Batu Bolong Beach as the top spots.
How long does it take from airport to Canggu? ›The closest airport to Canggu is Denpasar Airport, which is 18 km away. The journey time in a taxi or private car from Bali Airport to Canggu will be just 30 minutes in light traffic.
What is the most luxurious area of Bali? ›Uluwatu is located on the south of the island and is undoubtedly one of the most exclusive areas to stay in Bali. Some of its high cliffs with incredible views of the Indian Ocean even allow space for small beaches.
Where did the Kardashians stay in Bali? ›The family (and the kids!) packed up and headed to Bali and stayed at a luxury private resort called Soori Resort Hotel. The family, but of course, booked the most expensive and most private villa in the resort. It's believed to have cost a whopping $40k, which converts to about £35k.
Where do celebs stay in Bali? ›The gated enclave of Nusa Dua is a hotspot for A-listers. Its exclusivity and peaceful vibes mean it's the perfect place for the rich and famous to escape crowds and the paparazzi. It's also home to plenty of Bali's top celebrity hotels, including The St. Regis Bali Resort, one of Bali's most private five-star hotels.
What is the ideal length of stay in Bali? ›Most travelers will agree that 10 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Bali. However, 5 days is the bare minimum if you want to explore more than one area of the island. In this post, we'll go over exactly how long you need in Bali and how to spend your time there.
What is the safest city in Bali? ›
The southern towns of Sanur, Kuta, and Seminyak are at least 40 miles away from the volcanoes and quite safe from any danger.
What is the most romantic part of Bali? ›Canggu is one of the most romantic, scenic and the best places to visit for a honeymoon in Bali. This beach destination is just meant to admire the magnetic sunset, taste the tempting Bali cuisine from the cafes nearby or explore the rice paddy fields lying close to the serene coastline.
What celebrities live in Bali? ›George Clooney, Mick Jagger, Demi Moore, Richard Gere, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, Madonna… The list of fans of Bali can be continued for a long time. Celebrities love Bali in the first place for the fact that if you want to stay incognito, no one will even guess about your presence on the island.
What is the best time to visit Bali? ›Although Bali is climatically comfortable throughout the year, and is a year-round destination, the best time to visit Bali is from April to October, the summer months in Bali.
What is Bali a famous tourist resort of? ›Island of the Gods: Bali, Indonesia's most popular tourism destination, is home to beautiful beaches and dramatic landscapes.
Why go to Uluwatu? ›This area is known for its blue waves, white sand beaches, impressive sea cliffs, quality surfing, and fancy beach clubs. There's something for everyone here, and you can reach the Uluwatu area in about 1 hour of driving from Kuta, Canggu, and the other popular tourist hotspots in Bali Indonesia.
Is Uluwatu walkable? ›The best way to get around Uluwatu is either by local taxi, Grab/GoJek or scooter rental; it is possible to get around on foot if you are traveling short distances within an area like Bingin, otherwise Uluwatu is far too sprawling to cover much ground by walking.