When traveling to Bali, especially if you’re only visiting for a limited time rather than living there, you’ll often find yourself wondering where to base yourself: Canggu or Seminyak?
Of course, there are lots of other places to visit and stay in Bali, but both Canggu and Seminyak are considered popular places to base yourself from. And before visiting, I also had this question myself.
In terms of location, both Canggu and Seminyak are located on the southern coast of Bali and are easy to access from the airport located in Denpasar. It takes around 35 minutes to reach Seminyak and Canggu is roughly 5 minutes less via taxi.
Let’s explore both areas and give you the low-down on which one might be your preferred option…
What is Canggu like?
Canggu is heaven to the relaxed surfer crowd. And the easy-going way of living here is infectious, with people walking barefoot from the beach at all times of the day.
As you walk to and from the coworking spots or vegan restaurants, you’ll be surrounded by lush green rice paddies and the feeling of a beautiful small-town filled with amazing people.
For the foodies: There’s something for everyone in this bohemian style village, with lots of vegan, vegeterian or healthy options too.
Canggu is one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever visited and it firmly cemented itself as one of my favorite places in the world. Others must think the same too as it has quickly become one of Bali’s most popular hotspots.
And for those who enjoy a walk on the beach, Canggu boasts five beaches – with Canggu Beach even being named among CNN’s ‘World’s 100 Best Beaches’ in position number 39.
Who is Canggu best for? The surfer, healthy foodie, beach bum, digital nomad, or beach club connoisseur.
What is Seminyak like?
Despite being so close in location, Seminyak is for those who want to be in the hustle and bustle – or center of the action.
It’s one of the most popular spots for tourists and can be quite busy during the peak season. However, it has some gorgeous and vast beach resorts, incredible cafes and restaurants, and unique boutiques too.
And the nightlife in Seminyak is very good too! It’s more expensive than in Kuta, but it’s worth it.
Similarly to Canggu, Seminyak is also home to incredible beaches – four to be precise. Petitenget Beach and Batu Belig Beach are two of the best!
Who is Seminyak best for? Those who like to be in the middle of the action and within walking distance to all the best attractions, as well as foodies, and those who enjoy high-end nightlife.
Is it better to stay in Canggu or Seminyak?
This will completely depend on what you’re looking for. If you want a more relaxed approach, visit Canggu. If you want to be in the center of the action, visit Seminyak.
Or if you’re visiting for a more prolonged period of time, you could always visit both. I spent a few days in Seminyak (directly after arriving in Bali) before going to Canggu for over a week. For me, that was the right mix but some may prefer to switch it around.
How to get from Canggu to Seminyak
If you want to explore both locations, you’ll only be a short distance from either one.
So much so that you can actually walk the stretch of the distance, as it’s about 40 minutes along the beachfront. You could always make a morning of it as there’ll be lots of food and drink places to stop off on your travels.
Driving isn’t a hassle either. It’s roughly 20 minutes by taxi and maybe slightly quicker by scooter.
You could go via taxi, scooter (you could hire one if you feel comfortable) or book via the popular GoJek app.
Top Canggu and Seminyak Recommendations
4 Canggu Recommendations
- Hit the waves
Surfing is one of the top activities in Canggu and it’s frequented by both beginners and pros. There are various surf schools in the local area if you’re starting from scratch or looking to brush up on your knowledge.
- Eat at a warung on the beach
A warung is an Indonesian small family-owned eatery. There are lots in Seminyak and Canggu. And whilst there are some lovely eateries and cool bars, you can’t beat chilling with a Bintang and a traditional Indonesian meal while watching the sunset on the beach.
- Visit Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot is 20-30 minutes from Canggu but it’s worth the short trip. It’s a temple to worship the God of the sea.
The best way to get there is by renting a scooter or hiring a private car and driver.
- Party the night away at a beach club
Finn’s Beach Club is one of the most popular in Canggu and for good reason. You could spend all day there enjoying the views and swimming in the 30 metre infinity pool, or visit for a few drinks in the evening.
Canggu isn’t short of amazing restaurants and bars.
4 Seminyak Recommendations
- Beaches
One of the main beaches is the ‘Seminyak Beach’ which comprises three coastal strips: Pantai Arjuna (Blue Ocean Beach), Petitenget Beach and Batubelig Beach. The latter is one of the quieter areas as it’s more up north.
- Pura Petitenget
Pura Petitenget is one of six sea temples in Bali and one of the few cultural landmarks in Seminyak. This temple has a vast courtyard, shrines and small pavilions.
- Go cafe-hopping
If you’re working while visiting Bali, you’ll see many digital nomads plugged into their laptops in a cafe environment.
One of our favorites was Nalu Bowls – perfect for a healthy and fruit-filled breakfast.
- Chill out at a beach club
Some of the best beach clubs in Seminyak include Potato Head Beach Club, Mano Beach House, Infinity Beach Club, and Mrs Sippy Bali.
Mrs Sippy is one of my favorites, it has a great ambience and you can chill and relax or mingle with new people. It also has an epic diving platform (1,3 and 5 meter) which is in the center of the club – leaving people to count you down before you make your move. It’s great fun.
So Canggu or Seminyak?
Deciding between Canggu or Seminyak completely comes down to personal preference and which sounds like the right place for you.
Another way to see what a place is like (as much as you can without visiting) is through social media. Type in each location into Instagram and click on the hashtag; this will bring up thousands of images from people who have tagged that location. This can give you a good feel for the area. Or head to TikTok!
Regardless of whether you’re in Canggu or Seminyak, you’ll likely have an amazing time as both are incredible vacation destinations.