Canggu Surf Spots
Historically, Canggu was on the outskirts of Kuta, only accessible via a ballsy dirtbike road through soft sand.
Now? You’d be chastised for speeding down the beach – instead, travelling to Canggu means a leisurely jaunt through rice fields. As access has increased over the past few years, Canggu has become one of the more popular stomping grounds for a global community of ex-pats, digital nomads, hipsters and surfers. From soft peeling lines for longboarders and beginners to shallow barreling beach breaks, Canggu has everything you’re looking for – even readily available kombucha.
Pererenan
Canggu River Mouth
The Sandbar
Echo Beach Left
Batu Bolong
Old Man’s
WAVE INFO
Wave type:
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Pererenan: Reef Break
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Canggu: River Mouth
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The Sandbar: Beach Break
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Echo Beach Left: Reef Break
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Batu Bolong: Reef Break
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Oldman’s: Reef Break
Wave difficulty:
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Pererenan: Intermediate
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Canggu: Intermediate
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The Sandbar: Intermediate
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Echo Beach Left: Intermediate
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Batu Bolong: Beginner
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Oldman’s: Beginner
Wave direction:
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Pererenan: Left,Right
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Canggu: Right
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The Sandbar: Left,Right
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Echo Beach Left: Left
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Batu Bolong: Left
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Oldman’s: Left,Right
Wave bottom:
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Pererenan: Reef
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Canggu: Reef
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The Sandbar: Sand
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Echo Beach Left: Reef
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Batu Bolong: Reef
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Oldman’s: Reef
Booties:
Pererenan: Not necessary
Canggu: Personal preference
The Sandbar: Not necessary
Echo Beach Left: Personal preference
Batu Bolong: Not necessary
Old Man’s: Not necessary
Surfboard type:
Pererenan: Shortboard or fish
Canggu: Shortboard
The Sandbar: Shortboard
Echo Beach Left: Shortboard
Batu Bolong: Longboard or fish
Old Man’s: Longboard or fish.
Crowd factor:
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Pererenan: Medium Crowds
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Canggu: Crowded
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The Sandbar: Crowded
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Echo Beach Left: Medium Crowds
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Batu Bolong: Crowded
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Oldman’s: Crowded
Hazards:
Pererenan: See below
Canggu: See below
The Sandbar: See below
Echo Beach left: See below
Batu Bolong: See below
Old Man’s: See below
Best swell direction:
Pererenan: SW
Canggu: SW
The Sandbar: SW
Echo Beach Left: S
Batu Bolong: SW
Old Man’s: S
Best wind direction:
Pererenan: NE
Canggu: NE
The Sandbar: N
Echo Beach Left: N
Batu Bolong: N
Old Man’s: N
What tide is best:
Pererenan: High tide
Canggu: High tide
The Sandbar: Low tide
Echo Beach Left: Mid tide
Batu Bolong: Low tide
Old Man’s: Mid tide
Best tide movement:
Pererenan: Building tide
Canggu: Building tide
The Sandbar: Lowering tide
Echo Beach Left: Building tide
Batu Bolong: Dead low tide
Old Man’s: Building tide
Wave consistency:
Pererenan: Consistent
Canggu: Consistent
The Sandbar: Very consistent
Echo Beach Left: Inconsistent
Batu Bolong: Consistent
Old Man’s: Very consistent
Best time of year:
Pererenan: Year-round
Canggu: Year-round
The Sandbar: Year-round
Echo Beach Left: Year-round
Batu Bolong: Year-round
Old Man’s: Year-round
Lineup vibe:
Pererenan: Mellow
Canggu: Competitive
The Sandbar: Ultra-competitive
Echo Beach Left: Lots of hassling
Batu Bolong: Fun crowd
Old Man’s: Can be full-on
Other names for spot:
Pererenan: None
Canggu: The Right/River Mouth
The Sandbar: Echo Beach
Echo Beach Left: Echo Beach
Batu Bolong: None
Old Man’s: None
Most Common hazards
Pererenan has an exposed section of reef on the end section when you go left. Sometimes it pops out of nowhere.
Canggu tends to break shallow over the reef making it easy to hit the uneven bottom if you don’t make the drop. Although you will see many local pros throwing epic airs on the inside there are uneven chunks of reef here that you should be cautious of, so if you are a long way off fine-tuning your aerials you may want to save them for somewhere else.
The Sandbar gets really hollow and square when its on producing a very heavy lip and shallow sand bottom.
Echo Beach Left has plenty of exposed, uneven and sharp reef. Take a good look at the reef on a super low tide and you will get the idea. The take-off zone is tight and always crowded, meaning it is very difficult to get a wave when it’s good.
Batu Bolong can produce a bit of current in the channel once the surf reaches head-high. It can be strong enough to challenge when getting back to shore if you struggle with paddle fitness.
Old Man’s will throw a few rouge beginner boards and longboards your way so keep your eyes peeled on the paddle back out and be patient in the lineup.
Regardless of your experience, reef-related injuries are not a matter of if, but when. Reef cuts and infections are a big deal…They require immediate attention to avoid countless health problems.
How do you get in and out of the surf?
If you’re planning on surfing The Sandbar or the reefs at Echo Beach Left or Canggu, use the channels to keep yourself from getting washed up on the inside. As you’re paddling, keep your eye out for boils on lower tides. This typically indicates rocks under the water that can easily ding your board or fins. At Old Man’s you can paddle out anywhere – through the breakers on small days or out through the channel to the right if the swell is up.
Surfing for Beginners in Canggu
There’s a reason that surf camps flock to Canggu: predictable waves, a variety of spots, and easy access. Canggu is an excellent place to test out surfing – either by yourself or through a surf camp. We recommend staying around the Echo Beach and Batu Bolong area when the swell is mellow. Respect locals and try to stay in your lane.
Surf Lessons in Canggu
If you’re looking for a holistic experience, we recommend taking surf lessons or booking a surf camp. Many beginners aren’t taught the appropriate etiquette in the lineup, which is crucial when you’re in a respected surf destination like Bali. You’ll also want to make sure your pop-ups and wave positioning are correct.
If you feel like a lesson would suffice, ask the boys on the beach and they’ll point you in the right direction. Or pre-book online for the ultimate convenience.
What are Batu Bolong and Echo Beach like in Canggu?
Canggu, not unlike some of the other beaches in the area and is characterised by a long stretch of beautiful black sand. At dusk, you will find plenty of people soaking in the sunset and bintangs at the various beach bars spread along the Echo Beach and Batu Bolong Beach right down to Berawa. During high season, expect a crowded beach and some trash. Pictured above is The Sandbar on Batu Bolong Beach in the heart of Canggu.
Where should I stay in Canggu?
Due to its growing popularity in recent years, there is a wide range of accommodations for surfers visiting Bali. Canggu surf accommodations range from luxurious surf lodges overlooking the ocean to more simplistic surf hostels. Check out our recommendations below for some ideas on where to stay in Canggu.
Cheapest Price Range – Surf Lodge Canggu
Trendy, tidy and all the essential amenities. The Surf Lodge Canggu is a popular spot with many visitors staying multiple times when returning to Canggu. Choose from dorm rooms or private rooms. Both options are more than comfortable and affordable. Surf Lodge Canggu is located in central Canggu and just a short scooter ride to the surf. All in all the staff are super friendly, the rooms are large, well equipped and always immaculate.
Affordable Price Range – Premier Surf Camp Canggu
Premier Surf Camp Canggu is surprisingly a bit of a distance away from the surf. With cheap scooters for rent (a must-have for anywhere in Indo) Premier Surf Camp Canggu can promise you a clean and comfortable place to stay for singles, couples, and families. The food on sight gets some notoriety from local billboards but receives mixed reviews. You’ll no doubt love the pool, traditional Balinese architecture, and surf guiding services. They can also offer you reduced weekly and monthly accommodation rates if you plan on staying in Canggu for a while.
Affordable Price Range – Pondok Canggu Homestay
Pondok Canggu Homestay is located down a quiet side street off Jalan Batu Bolong, the main road in the heart of Canggu. Approximately 1.3 km from Batu Bolong Beach, Pondok Canggu Homestay provides air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, balconies and a bar. The accommodation also features an outdoor pool, free WiFi, and free private parking.
Affordable Price Range – Pondok Nyoman Bagus
For a step up in surfside accommodation and privacy, it’s worth taking a look at Pondok Nyoman Bagus. A short skip from the beach nestled in on the north side of Pererenan’s river mouth, you’ll be enjoying an ocean view from the infinity pool while sipping a fruity cocktail. Characterised by peace, quiet and great food, Pondok Nyoman Bagus is definitely worth some research. Great for couples and families, this Canggu surf accommodation provides a stay away from the shenanigans you’re sure to find in local surf hostels.
Affordable Price Range – Kima Bali Surf Camp Canggu
Eat sleep surf. Kima Bali Surfcamp Canggu is located only 2 minutes from the beach. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced, Kima makes sure that you surf the best waves twice a day, seven days a week including video analysis and theory lessons. Their spacious facility also includes a fully equipped sports centre with various workout options, such as Muay Thai, Karate & Pilates, yoga for surfers, 15m climbing wall, 4m diving pool and a countercurrent system to improve your paddling technique. Your stress level is reduced in their in-house spa. Our Poke bowl, Juice bar and Restaurant will delight your taste buds. Whether healthy, Indonesian, Western, vegetarian or vegan – they got you!
Affordable Price Range – Surf Motel
The Surf Motel is a great accommodation conveniently located in the heart of Echo Beach, Canggu, Bali. Positioned at the end of a side street this accommodation enables you to get enough peace while in walking distance from the surf, shopping, great food and much more. If you’re working remotely, Dojo Bali Coworking space is just a short distance or if you want to watch some sport and drink a few beers the number one sports bar in Canggu ‘Faraway Sportsbar and Grill’ is just as close also. If a few quiet drinks are more your thing, then the Surf Motel has a rooftop bar open from 9 am to 11 pm.
Mid Price Range – Frii Bali Echo Beach Hotel
A short walk from the beach, Frii Hotel in Canggu offers rooftop ocean views and a boutique surf hotel experience. Enjoy your early morning surf check from the rooftop bar or take a moment to relax poolside while munching healthy food. Ranked a bit higher on the luxuriousness scale than some of the other Canggu surf accommodations on this list, Frii hotel is great for the couple looking for seclusion, or the family looking for a quiet place to stay. Another added treat is the free shuttle to and from Seminyak if you want to mix things up.
Mid Price Range – Chesa Canggu
Chesa Canggu is a chic accommodation that beckons to surfers seeking the perfect base for their adventure in Canggu. This boutique retreat offers an idyllic blend of comfort, convenience, beautiful gardens, two 18-meter pools, large poolside sofas, cabanas, and an upmarket restuarant and bar named THARA. Just a few hundred meters away from renowned surf spots like Echo Beach and Batu Bolong, Chesa Canggu boasts an enviable location for surf enthusiasts.
Luxury Price Range – ASTON Canggu Beach Resort
Immerse yourself in comfort and style with ASTON Canggu Beach Resorts’ thoughtfully designed accommodations. Choose from a selection of elegant rooms and suites, each exquisitely appointed to provide a serene retreat after a day surfing the five different wave options within 200-700 meters away. Step onto your private balcony and savor panoramic ocean views, or unwind in spacious interiors adorned with modern amenities that cater to every convenience. Indulge your taste buds with their world-class dining options, where delectable cuisine meets the coastal breeze. From savory local dishes to international delights, their culinary team crafts a menu that tantalizes the senses, ensuring you’re fueled for your next surf session.
DEALS ON PLACES TO STAY IN Canggu?
Faq
Is there food nearby?
Not unlike the wide variety of accommodations to choose from, the food in Canggu ranges from your local street food grinds to hipsterific five-star cuisine. There are many good restaurants and cafes along Jalan Batu Bolong and plenty of places to find legitimately good coffee. Some favourites for food are:
Betelnut for healthy breakfast and lunches.
Veda Café is for nourishing and delicious eats.
Warung Bu Mi is a fantastic local restaurant that is very cheap and extremely popular.
Bali Buda Canggu has amazing smoothies and a lot of great meals to choose from. Our favourite is the grilled chicken, potato wedges and salad. The ingredients are top of the line and value for money is exceptional. While you’re there you can stock up on a large range of health foods and homemade superfoods too. Check them out online at Bali Buda.
Machinery Cafe Bali is an enclosed air-conditioned cafe with good coffee and premium wifi making it a favourite co-working space for those remote warriors.
Crate Cafe is hugely popular with a lively atmosphere. Be sure to get there super early to try to beat the huge crowds! True to their word “Crate is a space where good music, good food, good coffee and good people meet and create good vibes”.
What’s with all the computers?
With waves on tap, tropical weather, cheap housing, and high quality of life, Canggu is a hub for the new type of traveller – a digital nomad. Digital nomads, people who can work from anywhere with just a laptop, make up a big part of Canggu’s ex-pat community. From web developers to designers to writers, the digital nomad scene is booming. A majority of this new wave of workers come to Bali to surf, practice yoga, and enjoy a slower pace of life – all while making a steady income that goes a long way.
You’ll find dedicated workspaces tailored for those eager to make some coin and then catch a sunset surf before a few bintangs. If you’re eager to catch up on some work or have the next great idea for a startup, we recommend heading to Dojo Bali Coworking or Outpost Canggu.
What else is there to do in the area other than surfing?
Pretty Poison combines partying and skating with a Californian-style pool skate bowl and backyard-inspired bar. Located on the Canggu one way the crowds usually kick in at around 10 pm. Head down to watch some serious skating, sink a few Bintangs, and soak in the atmosphere.
Old Man’s for sunsets, beers, and pub food on the beach. Happy hour is 5-6 pm every day. Right at 5 pm, expect a flood of patrons rolling up to the bar to take advantage of the 2 for 1 hour as the sun heads to the horizon.
The Lawn Canggu offers a great place to party, great food and drinks, and an amazing pool. A quick look through their online photo gallery is sure to give you an idea of the type of crowd that the Lawn tends to pull. A great place for singles and your average surf traveler, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Taman Segara Madu Olympic Size 50m Pool is a great place for families, and kids, and an afternoon by the pool, or it is the best spot for your swim training while in Bali with its 50m Olympic size swimming pool. If it’s flat, you’re sure to have a great afternoon jumping in the pool and sipping a few drinks.
What else
do I need
to Know?
Surfboard Rentals and Lessons
Many of the accommodations or surf hotels on this list offer surfboard rentals and lessons in-house. If you’re looking for something outside your general hostel, the best place to rent a surfboard is in the beach parking lot at the end of Jalan Batu Bolong in front of Old Man’s. There is a local setup here that has many different boards to hire and friendly locals to give a surfing lesson.
Which is Better Canggu or Seminyak?
Canggu and Seminyak are both great places for those who have a special interest in relaxing by the beach and enjoying some drinks. Canggu, home of some of Bali’s funnest waves, is about 10km away from Seminyak. Although the drive between is extremely slow due to heavy traffic. Canggu is slightly less busy than Seminyak, with a laid-back, hipster feel. Canggu has more surfing options and beach culture, whereas Seminyak is more upscale and maybe the swankier option if that is what you are looking for.
Canggu and Seminyak feel quite different to one another, with Canggu having more of a laid-back surf-type feel. Seminyak is more well known for its beachfront resorts, shopping and nightclubs.
Location
Where is Canggu?
Located about a half an hour drive north of Kuta, Canggu is about half-way between Seminyak and Tanah Lot. The region is well known for pristine rice fields, black sand beaches, and world class surf breaks.
How to get around Canggu?
It’s easy to stroll around the neighbouring Canggu community by foot. If you’re looking to roam farther than your local corner store or surf spot, consider hiring a scooter, moped, or dirt bike for greater access to the surrounding Canggu area.
Is there parking fees in Canggu?
Parking fees in the Canggu area are consistent from parking area to parking area. Payment will cover you for the entire day even if you come and go. Be aware that during high season, scooter theft is possible.
Oldman’s parking is 2.000Rp per scooter and 5.000Rp per car.
Canggu (Batu Mejan) parking is 2.000Rp per scooter and 5.000Rp per car.
Central Canggu in front of Deus (Banjar Adat) parking is 2.000Rp per scooter and 5.000Rp per car.
