Surfing in Canggu

Canggu is one of the top destinations on the Island. With all the trendy healthy cafes and bars creating an exciting atmosphere, this coastal village attracts mostly young people looking for good surf, good food, yoga, and awesome parties.

Canggu started developing a few years ago, around 2016. People got attracted by this quiet village covered with rice fields that had the same vibe Kuta had in the early 90s.

With amazing temples nearby, the cultural experience is guaranteed if you choose to stay a few days in Canggu. Just be careful, the easy-going and cool vibe is so seducing that days become months and then you never want to leave.

The main street in Canggu is Jalan Batu Bolong, and it’s on and around this street that you will find all the best cafes, restaurants, local warungs, and bars.

The best surf spots in the Canggu area at Echo Beach for intermediate and experienced surfers, and Batu Bolong Beach which is perfect for beginners to learn the first steps.

Why surf in Canggu?

Canggu has some really fun waves. It has the best surf spot on the island to learn how to surf. In Batu Bolong you will find long mushy waves breaking on top of a mellow reef. The break is most crowded by beginners and longboarders looking for fun rides. Up north, you will find Echo Beach, with a variety of breaks that guarantees the fun of goofy and natural footers.

The only problem of surfing in Canggu is waking up early after a long night partying.

Climate in Canggu

Like the whole country, Canggu is in an equatorial zone and has two kinds of season: dry and wet. During the months from March to October, the weather is dry and sunny. Almost no rain falls during this period of the year so no need to bring your umbrella. From November to February the rain comes and makes everything green lush. The waterfalls get really strong and the humidity is very high mostly during December and January. Best time to go

Surfing in the dry season in Canggu

During the dry season its when the swells are more consistent and the waves are bigger. During this time of the year, the average wave height is between 3-5 ft. When bigger 8-10 ft swells hit this part of the coast the waves max out and it’s time to jump on your scooter to find a more sheltered spot.

Surfing in the wet season in Canggu

During the wet season, the winds are not very favorable for this side of the coast but there are still days when there is no wind at all or some glassy mornings. The average wave height during this period is 2-4 ft never getting much bigger than 5 ft. This time of the year is considered low season, so it’s way less crowded.

Main Surfing spots in Canggu

Berawa Beach

Peak Type: Beach break

Wave power: Mellow

Seabed: Sand over reef with multiple peaks

Length of ride: 50 - 100m

Wave size: 1 - 8 ft

Swell direction: S - W

Best wind: NE

Best tide: all tides

Best season: May to September

Frequency: very consistent

Skill level: beginner

Entry/exit: no channel

Danger: powerful shore break

Tips: 20 minutes walking down south from Batu Bolong. It has some rocky reefs that hold the sand making a sandbar with fun rights and a few nice lefts as well. Good for intermediates to improve their skills and run away from the crowded Batu Bolong.

Batu Bolong

Peak Type: Reef Break

Wave power: Mellow

Seabed: Sand over reef with multiple peaks

Length of ride: 50 - 100m

Wave size: 1 - 8 ft

Swell direction: S - W

Best wind: NE

Best tide: all tides

Best season: May to September

Frequency: very consistent

Skill level: beginner

Entry/exit: no channel

Danger: powerful shore break

Tips: This is the main beach in Canggu. It’s a famous longboard surf spot and is where most of the surf camps take their students to learn how to surf. You can find many shops near the beach renting longboards, soft tops or twin fins for 4 USD / 2 hours. There are waves breaking all over the beach and the crowd spread out evenly guaranteeing a wave for everyone.

Echo Beach

Peak Type: Reef Break

Wave power: Medium power

Seabed: Dead reef and rocks

Length of ride: 50 - 80m

Wave size: 1 - 6 ft

Swell direction: S - W

Best wind: NE

Best tide: Mid to high

Best season: May to September

Frequency: very consistent

Skill level: intermediate

Entry/exit: channel on the right side of the wave

Danger: Gets shallow when the tide starts to drop

Tips: located near the rocks on the left side of the beach. This wave allows you to do a couple of turns and sometimes even has a quick barrel on the first section of the wave.

Sand Bar

Peak Type: Beach break

Wave power: Medium power

Seabed: Sandbar

Length of ride: 50m

Wave size: 1 - 6 ft

Swell direction: S - W

Best wind: NE

Best tide: Mid to high

Best season: all year

Frequency: very consistent

Skill level: Intermediate

Entry/exit:

Danger:

Tips: In the middle of the beach there is a sandbar that works best on high tide. Fun waves break all over the place and it’s perfect for intermediate surfers to test their skills.

River Mouth

Peak Type: Reef break

Wave power: Medium power

Seabed: dead reef

Length of ride: 50 - 100m

Wave size: 1 - 6 ft

Swell direction: S - W

Best wind: NE

Best tide: Mid to high

Best season: all year

Frequency: very consistent

Skill level: Advanced/intermediate

Entry/exit: channel on the right side of the break

Danger: the last section gets really shallow

Tips: At the right corner, near the jetty, you will find Canggu’s best wave, the river mouth. It’s a really good right-hander that has a barrel on the first section and lets you do a few turns before you reach the beach.

Pererenan

Pererenan Beach is right next to Echo Beach. There is a river that separates the two beaches and creates a perfect channel to paddle out to the lineup. This surf break is an a-frame but the left-hander is way superior to the right. The best tide is mid to high because when its low the reef gets exposed and there are rocks popping up everywhere. Perfect on a mid swell from S. With big SW swells tend to max out.

Kendungu

Peak Type: Reef break

Wave power: Mellow

Sea Bed: Reef

Length of ride: 50 - 100m

Wave size: 1 - 6 ft

Swell direction: S - W

Best wind: NE

Best tide: Mid to high

Best season: all year

Frequency: very consistent

Skill level: Advanced/intermediate

Entry/exit: channel on the right side of the break

Danger: Be careful going in and out of the ocean because there is a very powerful shore break. There are many sea urchins on the reef so avoid surfing when the tide is low.

Tips: This beach is perfect to escape the crowded line ups of Batu Bolong and Echo Beach.

Yeh Gangga

Yeh Gangga beach is located 30 minutes up north from Canggu. This beach break offers good waves for both sides with low crowds. The best time to go is usually in the mornings since this surf spot can't handle wind very well. The best tide is mid to high with a moderate swell. There are a few peaks spread along the beach but the main one is on the right side of the big rock. There you will find a perfect A-frame with a right-hander that usually produces good barrels. The left-hander is a bit shorter with a good closeout section perfect for airs. If you want to escape the crowds of Canggu, Yeh Gangga is a good choice if you are willing to skip a part-night and wake up early.

What is your traveling style?

Luxury / Nice / Upscale Surfing in Canggu

If you want to relax in a nice boutique hotel near the beach with all the comfort and amenities that you vacation deserve we have the perfect option for you. Located 400m from Berawa Beach there is a boutique hotel that has a unique Indonesian architecture design. With colored decoration and mostly filled with wooden furniture, this place is for those who seek an intimate private hideaway in the heart of Canggu. From the top floor, you will find an amazing spot to admire the enchanting views and await for breathtaking sunsets. The staff is composed of dedicated, professional, friendly people that will be waiting to serve you as best as they can. 35-40 USD per night.

Budget Surfing in Canggu

If you are a surfer looking for a cozy place near the beach with affordable prices there are plenty of options in Canggu. All you have to do is find the best place that suits your budget.

Kids and Teen Surf Camps

Canggu has a lot to offer for those who want to learn how to surf or improve their surfing skills. There are many surf camps that will provide you with the best surf instructors and the appropriate equipment to make you learn quickly, safely and with lots of fun. Prices including accommodation and surf lessons vary between 85-150 USD.

Groups

Vacation is meant to be fun and what’s best than gather your friends and family and go on a surf trip? Bring everybody! Girlfriends, surfers, non-surfers or the kids. There are fun activities for everyone. You can leave your girlfriend tanning on the beach while the kids run around having fun and you are shredding the waves in the warm ocean.

If you want to learn how to surf together with your friends, Canggu is your best option. The surf camps can deal with many groups at the same time so there is no shortage of space to invite everyone. More people means more fun!

Canggu Travelling Guide

Packing and equipment:

What should I pack for a surf holiday in Canggu

The Gu (how a lot of people refer to Canggu) has a very casual dressing code. The village’s most common visitors are hipsters walking around on their bare feet enjoying the beach and the nightlife in light clothes. So no need to pack any fancy suits or high heels unless you really want to make an impression.

Canggu may not be a very big village, but there are still heaps of surf stores. Losing a fin or breaking a leach is nothing to worry about since the surf shops are situated evenly spread through the area. The amount of trendy clothing and accessory stores will also blow your mind, so a recommendation is to pack light, mostly also because of the warm weather.

If you are not from Europe you will need an adaptor since Indonesia adopts European standards for electrical plugs. But if you forgot yours don’t stress about it, you can easily buy one in Kuta (which is located close to the airport).

Basic Info about Canggu

Indonesia’s national language is commonly known as Bahasa. It’s an easy language to learn, but there is no need to learn it when going to Canggu since most of the locals speak very good English. They will be more interested in practicing their English with you than teaching you Bahasa. On the other hand, learning the basics is always a good idea if you want to have a closer and more genuine exchange with the locals.

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). The locals are usually helpful and they love to bargain so always ask for discounts before agreeing with any price.

Before Going to Canggu

Visa / Documents

No need for visa

Free tourist visa for 30 days

60 days visa on arrival (35 USD)

Don’t forget to go to the immigration office to extend your visa on arrival.

Vaccines / Health

If you are coming from South America or Africa you need a yellow fever vaccine.

Your usual childhood vaccines plus protection from Hepatitis A should be fine.

Cases of malaria happen especially during the wet season, but that’s not a major concern.

Be extra careful with dogs, cats, and monkeys. If you are bitten, go straight to a local hospital to get yourself a rabies shot.

Getting to Canggu

The main airport on the island is called Ngurah Rai International Airport. It’s located near Kuta. The less stressful way is to arrange your transfer before arriving on the island, but you can always get a cab at the airport as well. There are many drivers offering you rides when you arrive at the airport, but as said before, always bargain with the price since they will try to optimize their profit with unadvised tourists.

Moving Around in Canggu

The best way to move around in Canggu is by scooter. It’s easy and gives you the independence to go anywhere, whenever you want. It’s also a good option to avoid traffic jams since it can get really busy during the rush hours. As soon as you find your accommodation you should ask the staff about renting a scooter. But remember, if you are going out to have a couple of drinks you should get a cab and leave your scooter at home. Safety first always!

In case you don’t feel comfortable riding a scooter, another option is to rent a bicycle to move around nearby your accommodation.

Budget Planning

It’s hard to avoid going to the best restaurant and cafes in Canggu. The options are plenty and the places are mind-blowing but at the same time more expensive than the cheaper local food. There are plenty of delicious alternatives for the ones wanting to try the local flavors for a cheaper price range. The local food is very flavorful and you should try it at least once.

Local warungs price per meal: 2-5 USD

Fancy restaurants price per meal: 10-50 USD

There are many options for accommodations in Canggu. It’s only a matter of finding the best one for you.

Homestays price per night: 20-50 USD

Hotel price per night: 40-200 USD

In order to make it easier to go around in Canggu, you should get yourself a sim card. You can easily buy one at the airport after picking up your luggage. The best phone company in the country is Telkomsel.

It’s easy and practical to move around by scooter in Canggu. If you want to go surfing you can rent a scooter with board racks which will let you bring your board with you.

Scooter rent price per day: 4-6 USD

Gas is super cheap in Canggu. There are not many gas stations but there are always places selling gas in old vodka bottles. It’s a funny concept but it’s a practical solution. 1L cost 1 USD. At the gas station, 1L costs 0.5 USD

Other things to do while Surfing in Canggu

Eat at the vegan restaurants and discover how Canggu got famous for the green menus

Canggu is the place to be if you are vegan and if eco-friendly food is important to you. The amount of vegan-friendly health cafes are beyond your imagination since almost all the restaurants and cafes in Canggu have adapted their menus towards a green experience. The most popular cafés/restaurants in Canggu like Betelnut, The Shady Shack, Crate, Nüde Café, Milk and Madu, La Baracca, Moanas Fish Eatery are often super busy bringing people in for breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks and dinner. Start your morning with a smoothie bowl, order a fresh tofu salad for lunch and end your day with a raw zucchini pasta. The healthy opportunities are endless.

If the vegan thing is not for you there’s nothing to worry about, there are also massive and meaty burgers around every corner in this area. There is something for everyone in Canggu!

Best Tattoo Shop

Koloni Tattoo and Piercing

Sightseeing - Culture in Canggu

As mentioned above, there is a well-known temple situated around 20-30 minutes drive from Canggu called Tanah Lot Temple. This temple is located in the sea a few meters away from the beach. Only locals are allowed to go inside the temple but it’s possible to see the ceremonies and rituals from the land. Save some time to visit the temple and learn about the

Balinese Hindu Culture. A good tip is to arrive in the afternoon so you can stay and watch the sunset!

If you’re looking for the nightlife in Canggu you should find yourself at Old Man’s on a Wednesday. This restaurant/beach bar is located at the end of Jalan Batu Bolong, by the beach, and it’s one of the most famous party bars on the island. The parties at Old Man’s and at the beach usually go all the way to sunrise. Other nice parties happen at Pretty Poison on Thursdays and Deus Ex Machina on Sundays.

Type of Risks

The surf breaks in Canggu are very mellow and the waves are friendly. Surfing is considered a radical sport and minor injuries might occur. If that happens Canggu has a few medical facilities capable of taking good care of you and your family. Usual injuries are fin chops, reef cuts and exhaust burn from your scooter mufflers. Watch out for those and you will have an injury-free vacation.

How to Prepare

If you never surfed in your life you should try to prepare your body to optimize your experience. The first thing is to become a paddle fit. Surfing requires a lot of paddling before you catch a wave and stand up. The instructors will be there to push you and help you out but nothing is better than being able to get a wave by yourself. If you can, start swimming or exercising the muscles of your shoulders and of your back. That will help you to stay in the water for long periods catching as many waves as you can.

You should also watch out to avoid getting sunburnt. It’s a common mistake to go in the water and surf for hours without a shirt or even sun cream. So always remember to put lots of sun cream. We highly recommend you to always use a shirt to protect your skin.

It might be a good idea to check the surf forecast one week before your trip. This way you can start getting ready for the upcoming surf conditions.

Here are some good forecast websites:

www.surf-forecast.com

www.surfline.com

www.magicseaweed.com

If you are going to drive around in a scooter, don’t forget that insurance companies don’t cover accidents if you don’t have a license. If you are thinking about getting yourself insurance, here are some good options that we can recommend to you:

www.worldnomads.com

www.surftravelinsurance.com.au

www.allianz.com