Canggu is a popular destination with the international hipster brigade. Apart from the great surf, people have been coming to Canggu to escape the craziness of Kuta to a Bali with padi fields and roaring surf, yet still has all the niceties of life within a short scooter ride away. In recent years new restaurants, beach-side bars and surf schools have sprung up in Canggu all catering to the new travellers. This is where you will find new ventures such as warungs serving organic food, surf & yoga classes and independent fashion labels. The entrepreneurs here have skilfully married the best of local and international ideas and trends into their very own Canggu style.
Surfing in Canggu
Canggu’s popularity was driven by the incredible surf in the area. There is a thriving modern longboarding scene at Pantai Batu Bolong or Old Man’s (name of the surf spot in front), which is also where beginners and surf schools tend to congregate. Around the Old Man’s car park is a cool apres surf scene with restaurants and bars. Further North at Echo Beach and beyond, the waves break on reef and rock and are more suited to experienced surfers. There is a good choice of warungs and restaurants on top of the seawall where you can watch the surfing action with an icy bintang. Berawa is another beach close by that offers intermediate waves breaking on smooth volcanic rock.
Learning to Surf in Canggu
If you are new to surfing, Canggu is not the place to just hire a board and try it yourself. You need way more time to master the basics and worst you could get into some trouble in these waters. Several surf camps operate around the Canggu area. They will take care of accommodation, food and your surfing lessons. Camps are a hassle free option and a chance to meet other beginner surfers.
If you would like more personal training you can seek out a surf guide who can tailor each lesson to your surfing ability. As in Kuta, you can easily find someone to teach you how to surf for a fee but it's best to go with experienced local surf guides for the best instruction.
Surf Hire in Canggu
The rental shop in front of Old Man’s Batu Bolong carpark has a large variety of softboards and longboards. You can rent them out for the whole day or just for a couple of hours.
Surf Shops in Canggu
Surf shops are starting to appear around the area where you can pick up some wax or even a custom made board for Bali waves.
Swimming in Canggu
People should be careful in the waters around Canggu. There are often rips and heavy surf which are dangerous for the inexperienced. This area is also not patrolled by lifeguards. Get your photos in the shallows, but save your swimming for the beaches further South like Legian or Kuta. Alternatively dip yourself into a pool at one of beach clubs.
