After my time in Ubud, I spent a month in Canggu (Pronounced Chan-Goo) for my 200 hour yoga teacher training. Canggu is a coastal village and an up-and-coming resort area that is near Seminyak. The coastline of Canggu comprises of different black-sand beaches, almost all with surf breaks that are popular haunts of surfers from around the world. These include the beaches of Berawa that borders just north of Seminyak’s Batubelig beach, Batu Bolong Bay, and Echo Beach. Canggu is famous for its nightlife with an array of clubs to choose from and plentiful day activities to do such as going to Splash Water Park, Finns recreational club and surfing lessons.

Within such a touristy destination there are pockets of bohemia with quaint yoga studios, massage centres, boutique shops and an assortment of unusual workshops that may be of interest- such as Theta healing, Cacao ceremonies, vortex healing and Bio-dynamic massage to name a few.

If you want to avoid the nightlife, Canggu is great if you feel called to enjoy the beach, the sea and treat yourself to a holistic workshop or in my case: A yoga teacher training!

Yoga Studios and Teacher Trainings

The Practice is probably the most well known yoga studio in Canggu. With its airy, circular bamboo structures what’s not to love? The Practice offer a variety of yoga classes including traditional Tantric Hatha Yoga, Kirtan with Ellen Arthur (This is a must do!) and teacher trainings. Samadi Bali offer everything from yoga classes, events, residencies, a sunday market and retreats. Jai Wellness do not have their own studio but offer incredibly unique Ayurvedic yoga teacher trainings in Canggu, Bali twice a year. This training is one of kind because of their holistic approach in which you are guided to incorporate Ayurveda into your yoga asana classes. You learn to create classes based on each dosha, the seasons, stages of life and time of day.

Where to Stay

Cosmos Oasis is a rather luxurious complex with angular, industrial yet elegant architecture and it is hidden away down a quiet road opposite Samadhi Bali. It includes two yoga shalas, swimming pool, outdoor lounge room and shared kitchen area. Perfect for retreats, holding workshops and teacher trainings or simply staying as a guest.

Gypsy Moon Hostel is for the budget traveller needing a last minute place to stay. This glam hostel features a swimming pool nestled in a cozy tropical garden. Your sleeping options are a 6-bed mixed dorm or a 4-bed mixed dorm, each with its en-suite bathroom. For couples looking for added privacy on a budget there is also the Javanese woodhouse overlooking the pool. Gypsy Moon’s design is classic old Bali-meets-bohemian chic. Think: eclectic mix of vintage furniture, teakwood carvings, and hand-woven fabrics bathed in natural light.

The Farm Hostel is located at the end of a gang (cul-de-sac) that runs off the popular Batu Bolong, their only immediate neighbours are rice fields and banana trees, bamboo and a running stream. It’s a really peaceful place to stay.

Eat & Drink

The Shady Shack– This was a favorite during my time in Canggu. Shady shack offer a wide range of Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten free options. Their Vegan chocolate is to die for and their smoothies are mouthwatering.

Give Cafe– This place is special because not only are they plant based, but every single purchase has a purpose. They give 100% of their profits to people and places that need it most. At the counter when you order your food, you receive a token to slot into one of three boxes supporting three charities. One is usually community based, another for animals and the third for the environment. Their food is delicious and at a reasonable price and you are giving back to local communities. How beautiful is this?

The Lawn– A favorite for many westerners. This place is hip and happening. Situated on and opening out onto the beach with lounging areas on the floor, cocktail bars, DJ, live bands and great food, this is where the cool kids hang out in the evenings.

Bali Buda-An organic food shop below and a cute little restaurant above. This place has been serving organic, MSG-free meals since 1994. They offer salads, soups, pasta, burgers, Indonesian dishes, sandwiches and desserts – all made using organic produce, meats & freshly-baked goods. They serve vegan, raw food & vegetarian dishes as well. Their chocolates and cakes are delicious!

In their health food shop they sell a wide range of local & imported organic foods, as well as natural household, skincare & alternative products. They also have a home delivery service as well.

Recreation

In regards to general activities, the main reason people come to Canggu is for the beaches and the surf, I highly recommend Echo beach and Batu Balong Bay. Also, do pay a visit to La Laguna, this is a gorgeous Gypsy-Chic Tapas Bar and Restaurant North of Seminyak, go during sunset. Lovers of all things gypsy-chic, antique and vintage will adore the bohemian decor. The Gypsy Market at La Laguna every Sunday is also worth a visit too. This market is a showcase of organic products from their Organic farm and unique selection of artistic creations, handcrafted and homegrown items by local vendors, accompanied by activities and entertainment for the whole family. For some pampering I recommend Goldust beauty lounge or Amo Spa or if you wish for some holistic healing, Sakti Healing offer Reiki sessions, Crystal therapy, Tarot readings and more.

Canggu offers Sun, sand, sea, surfing, yoga, massage and alternative healing all in one as one giant, magical, unicorn holiday of a life time. What are you waiting for?

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