Oh, Canggu! The beloved coastal paradise, where the waves are endless, the sun is always shining, and the food is nothing short of heavenly.
If you’re lucky enough to call a Canggu accommodation your home during your Bali getaway, consider yourself truly fortunate. This place is a treasure trove of surf, sun, nightlife, and culinary delights. But amid all the amazing things that make Canggu special, there’s one hidden gem you don’t want to miss – the Canggu Shortcut.
With Bali Villa Escapes, we will unravel what makes this shortcut so fabulous and why staying at a Canggu accommodation is the cherry on top of your Bali experience.
What is the Canggu Shortcut?
Picture this: a charming pathway that’s not quite wide enough for two cars but not so narrow that it feels like a one-way ticket to endless traffic. That’s the Canggu Shortcut for you, a hidden treasure that’s been buzzing with as much life as the main roads. This curb-less path stretches for roughly 1.5 kilometres, meandering through lush rice paddies like a secret passageway (that was 3 years ago – today it’s packed full of shops, day spas, padel tennis, tattoo studios and restaurants and yes, the incredible accidents by scooters, cars and trucks that drive off the side). The best part? It can shave off a sweet 30 minutes from your travel time compared to navigating the hustle and bustle of Jalan Raya Canggu.
Starting from Jalan Raya Semat in Berawa and leading you to Jalan Batu Mejan in Batu Bolong, the shortcut is like your golden ticket to bypassing Canggu’s sometimes hectic traffic. But it’s not just about saving time; it’s about savouring every moment of your Canggu adventure. As you cruise through this charming route, you’ll be treated to the sight of endless rice fields and the tranquillity of local neighbourhoods. It’s like a scenic detour through Bali’s heart and soul. And to sweeten the deal even more, you’ll stumble upon popular cafes, surf shops, restaurants, and beaches nestled in the Berawa and Batu Bolong areas. So, not only does the shortcut save you time, but it also effortlessly connects you to the coolest spots in town. In a nutshell, the Canggu Shortcut isn’t just a road; it’s a passage to a more authentic and immersive Canggu experience. But one question lies: What’s waiting to be explored on these two sides of Canggu?
Canggu Shortcut: Batu Bolong side
If you’re the kind of person who thrives on the pulse of vibrant nightlife, then Batu Bolong is your playground. This side of the Canggu Shortcut is a hub for cool drink spots, buzzing clubs, yoga studios that make Zen look chic, and a mouthwatering array of restaurants. And if catching waves is your jam, you’re in for a treat. Batu Bolong Beach boasts numerous surf schools and places where you can snag a board. Stretching from Echo Beach down to the south side of Berawa, this shoreline offers some of the best surf breaks Bali has to offer. Sunset-watching, surfing, and sipping cocktails – Batu Bolong knows how to keep the good times rolling.
Old Man’s
Taking its name from the famous surf break, Old Man’s is the undisputed king of beachfront clubs in Canggu. Nestled right on the sands of Batu Bolong beach, it’s a surfer’s paradise, boasting consistent waves and breathtaking sunsets that will leave you in awe. But Old Man’s is more than just a surfer’s haven; it’s a hot spot for delectable food and drinks. With a regular lineup of events featuring live bands and both local and international DJs, the party here never stops. You can count on them every day, from 8 in the morning until 1 am, whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a scrumptious dinner. Now, let’s talk about the menu. Old Man’s serves up an enticing array of authentic Indonesian dishes and other iconic cuisines, all wrapped in a ‘surf club meets beach bar’ ambience. It’s a place where you can savour the flavours of Bali while your toes sink into the golden sand – a true island paradise.
Old Man’s Canggu is ready to spice up your night like never before (Image taken from Old Man’s’ Instagram)
The Lawn
The Lawn, founded by the legendary pro-surfer Tai Buddha, has established itself as the ultimate chill-out spot in Canggu. Picture this: you’re sprawled out on the lush green lawn, soaking up the sun and gazing at the graceful longboard surfers riding the Canggu waves. It’s not just about the view; it’s an experience. While you’re there, why not indulge in some mouthwatering bites and sip on refreshing sangria? You can do just that as you witness the sun painting the sky in vibrant shades during sunset. But if you’re in the mood for something a tad more intimate, you can always head indoors. There, you can savour a romantic cocktail with delectable dishes that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you choose to soak up the sun or enjoy the cosy indoors, The Lawn is the perfect place to unwind and savour the essence of Canggu living.
Soak up the sun or have a romantic dinner at The Lawn Canggu (Image taken from TripAdvisor)
Mason
Mason is a culinary sanctuary that stands apart from the rest. This Mediterranean-inspired gem is all about the art of crafting every dish from scratch by hand. With just 100 seats, Mason is an oasis of gastronomic excellence, where every creation is an exquisite masterpiece born from the finest ingredients. With timeless cooking techniques like wood fire grilling and the delicate craft of cheese making, Mason creates an in-house palette of flavours that’s nothing short of extraordinary. The menu boasts a curated selection of fine wines, both local and imported beers and a collection of classic cocktails with a unique Mason twist. For ambience, Mason exudes minimalistic elegance. Picture a courtyard bathed in soft, inviting string lights and a dining room that seamlessly blends with the open-air plan, all coming together to create the perfect setting to relish exceptional cuisine and delightful drinks. If you want to enter culinary heaven, simply enter the world of Mason.
Serenity Bali
Serenity Bali Eco Guesthouse & Yoga is a family-owned business that’s been nurturing holistic wellness since 2000. Rooted in the principles of permaculture, this eco-friendly retreat seamlessly weaves together yoga, wholesome cuisine, and sustainable accommodation to create a haven of well-being. Serenity offers a diverse range of yoga classes, each embracing different styles and approaches. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a newbie looking to explore the practice, there’s a class, yoga package, or retreat perfectly tailored to your needs. They also host workshops and events that touch every facet of well-being, ensuring you find the perfect balance between relaxation, rejuvenation, and sustainable living in the enchanting backdrop of Bali. At Serenity, they offer a holistic lifestyle that nourishes your soul, energizes your body, and soothes your mind. It’s the ultimate destination for those seeking a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them.
Echo Beach Club
The Beach House Restaurant at Echo Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Housed right by the surf, its stunning location sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary experience. No matter the time of day, The Beach House welcomes you with open arms. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely morning breakfast, a satisfying mid-day lunch, a dinner with front-row seats to a mesmerising sunset, or even a night of lively festivities, this is the place to be. The Beach House is renowned for its BBQ that boasts the freshest seafood, mouthwatering imported steaks, and an array of fresh, flavorful sides that’ll tantalize your taste buds. And when it comes to ambience, you’re spoiled for choice. You can savour your meal indoors, surrounded by a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, or opt for an outdoor table right by the beach. It’s dining with a view that’s as spectacular as the cuisine itself. If you want to capture the essence of Bali’s beachside charm, this spot is a must-visit.
Batu Bolong Surf Camp
If you’re passionate about riding the waves, then look no further – Batu Bolong Surf Camp is your ultimate destination. Nestled right in the heart of Canggu on the bustling Batu Bolong main road, this surfing haven has it all. Whether you’re eager to make new friends, elevate your surfing skills, revel in the vibrant nightlife, or simply be within arm’s reach of Canggu’s bars and restaurants, this camp ticks all the boxes. At Batu Bolong Surf Camp, you can get access to surfing lessons complete with transportation to Bali’s best surf spots. With a team of instructors who are not only experienced and knowledgeable about the art of surfing but also exude youthful enthusiasm, you’ll have access to the waves, whether you’re a beginner catching your first break or an intermediate/advanced surfer seeking the ultimate shore peaks. But Batu Bolong Surf Camp isn’t just about the surf – it’s about immersing yourself in a culture where the ocean is your playground, where delectable food fuels your surfing strokes, and where you’re surrounded by spirits who share your love for the sport.
Surf through the ocean waves at Batu Bolong Surf Camp (Image taken from Nomad Surfers)
Canggu Shortcut: Berawa Beach side
If you’re seeking a more laid-back escape with your friends or family, where tranquillity and quality time take centre stage, then Berawa is your place to be. While Berawa boasts its fair share of charming cafes, inviting restaurants, and beach clubs, it’s also peppered with boutiques and family-friendly establishments. It’s the ideal backdrop for strolls, relaxed meals, and enjoying precious moments with loved ones.
The Vault
Just like its name, The Vault is an underground club that is a sanctuary where the party roars without a hint of noise pollution escaping its confines. Here, you can savour handpicked cocktails not short of liquid artistry, indulge in the freshest sushi, and explore an endless selection of drinks to keep the spirits high. And let’s not forget the soundtrack to your night – it’s curated by the island’s top DJs. The entrance to the club is where it truly begins. A vast, dark hallway with heavy red velvet drapes that conceal the bunker door. It’s an entrance that exudes an air of mystery where you’ll have the best night of your life.
The mystery of The Vault is just the beginning of the best night of your life (Image taken from Bali Bible)
Milu by Nook
Milu by Nook is nestled within a lush tropical garden, offering a front-row view of the beautiful rice paddies and feeling the cool breeze sweeping through the open-plan restaurant. The food here truly dazzles, with an extensive menu that caters to every palate. There are heaps of vegetarian options, unique twists on Indonesian food, and fusion dishes blending local flavours with international techniques. What makes Milu truly special is its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its dedication to sustainable culinary practices. In essence, it’s the perfect haven for relaxation, with a golden opportunity to savour the paradise of flavours in Bali.
Milu By Nook is the ultimate spot for a laid-back dining experience (Image taken from @milubynook on Instagram)
Berawa Luxe
Berawa Luxe is the ultimate boutique in Canggu, where affordability meets uncompromising quality. Rooted in the rich tapestry of Balinese traditions and landscapes, this boutique is a treasure of clothing and accessories that is sure to elevate your style. Each piece features thoughtfully sourced fabrics, a unique palette of colours, and original print designs that draw inspiration from Bali’s captivating beauty. At Berawa Luxe, you’ll discover versatile designs that transcend trends, ultimately letting your style tell the story of your trip to Bali.
Berawa Luxe is a beautiful boutique in Canggu (Image taken from the Berawa Luxe Instagram)
Solace Float
Solace Float takes your Canggu experience to the next level. It is where you step into a world of zero-gravity bliss with their immersive flotation therapy – a journey that elevates both your body and mind to a state of weightlessness. Imagine being in a cocoon of sound-proof tranquillity, where the outside world fades away, leaving you with the space to explore new depths of relaxation. With water maintained at skin temperature, this sensory deprivation experience ushers you into a transformative realm of deep mental and physical relaxation, aiding with pain relief, recovery, pregnancy relief, enhanced meditation, and rejuvenating sleep.
Book your Canggu Accommodation with Bali Villa Escapes
If you’re planning to explore both sides of the Canggu Shortcut and are in search of the perfect place to stay, your search ends here with Bali Villa Escapes. We proudly offer an extensive selection of Canggu Accommodation options that cater to your every need. We have villas near every beach, such as Berawa Beach, Canggu Beach, Echo Beach, and Batu Bolong Beach.
Contact us today, and our dedicated team will be delighted to assist you in finding the ideal villa for your unforgettable getaway. Your dream Canggu experience begins with us!
Steven is a die-hard Bali island addict and committed surfie. When he's not writing or taking videos of the latest restaurants or cool places, he's at Echo Beach surfing or riding his scooter around Seminyak, Berawa or Canggu. Steve is part of the Bali Villa Escapes marketing team and has been living in and out of Bali for the last 15 years.
