Discovering Bali: Ubud vs Canggu?
We always get asked which is the best area to be in when in Bali – Ubud or Canggu? They're the two most popular spots on the Island, but we know that they also have very different vibes, things to do, food choices and even nightlife. Read on to find out how to choose between the two!
As the town known for culture and wellness, Ubud is the hub for those who love artsy and adventurous activities, or if you're on an Eat Pray Love journey. Canggu’s like the cool kid on the Bali block - think aesthetic cafes, boho beach clubs, exciting nightlife and bars. It's serious #beachlife, and the place to be at for all those who want to learn to surf!
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
If you're a nature-lover, thrill-seeker, or you just want to see everything, stay in Ubud! It's close to all the fun adventure spots in Bali and a lot of cultural activities that you will show you the true Bali.
From batik and jewellery making to beautiful hikes up Mount Agung, you'll find adventure at every corner! Our favourite has to be cycling around rice paddy fields. It's such a peaceful activity with scenic views!
If you're craving the beach, Canggu is where you want to be based at! Unlike Ubud, which is right in the middle of Bali and at least an hour away from the closest beaches, Canggu is right there on the beachfront with many options to plop down your towel. With many beginner-friendly surf spots, you can hang loose and catch some waves here! Just want to chill? Relax with zen yoga classes with gorgeous sunrise or sunset beach views!
FOOD/CAFES
it’s hard to decide which place has better food, because they both have some of the best, top-notch local and international restaurants!
Ubud is home to some of the best local cheap food and restaurants in Bali, while Canggu is an international dining hotspot. In Ubud, we recommend checking out Nusantura for amazing local Indonesian food and Batu Bara for mouthwatering steak. Since Canggu is a digital nomad hotspot, you'll find all the cool beach bars and modern cafes with western food, amazing wood-fired pizza (try Luigi’s Hot Pizza and Fabbrica) right next to Vietnamese pho houses and Indian roti kitchens. There's definitely less Balinese food here!
NIGHTLIFE
Ubud has one of the more chilled nightlife scenes and laid-back bars where you can chat with like-minded travelers, play pool, and sip well-mixed cocktails -- definitely not the the place to party. Canggu is where all the party people are, and is known for being Bali's biggest nightlife destinations. It's a must to check out the beach clubs where they'll host EDM and DJ parties from sunset all the way to the wee hours of the morning. We recommend bringing a hangover pill pack to Canggu!
More Field Notes finds
