Ubud vs. Canggu: Picking Your Perfect Bali Destination
Bali has been gaining popularity for years now. And rightfully so, the place is absolutely stunning.
But if you find yourself wondering which one to choose as a base, this blog is going to dive into this.
After spending some time in both areas and living like a Bali local, I got the chance to really get a a proper feel.
This guide will analyze both cities and compare. The purpose is to contrast them and help you understand which one will suit your preferences better.
Overview of Ubud
Geography and Atmosphere
Ubud is located in central Bali in Gianyar. The rice paddies were Ubud’s claim to fame.
After having spent some time visiting and living in Ubud myself, I can tell you right now that Ubud is absolutely magical.
Key attractions
Cultural Sites
There is so much to do in Ubud. You can visit famous places like the Ubud Monkey Forest and lots of various other cultural sites. There’s plenty of water temples for you to fill up your days.
Even if you didn’t want to do anything cultural, it’s the perfect place to embrace slow living. The general vibe of Ubud welcomes you to slow down and be in the present moment.
Natural Beauty
Many people became aware of Bali because of Instagram.
Let’s be real!
Nowadays, you can’t really scroll the gram without seeing these lush expansive rice fields.
Although Canggu also has plenty of rice paddies, they are also being replaced by new constructions at rapid rate.
Ubud is still a better option for full immersion into the wilderness. Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Campuhan Ridge Walk are a few popular spots.
I personally walked the Campuhan Ridge Walk and I think it is absolutely worth doing. Plus you only need an hour or two.
Of course, Ubuud will also spoil you in terms of waterfalls. 😊
Accomodation
When it comes to places to stay, there are so many options. You will find anything you could possibly imagine. From luxury resorts, to boutique hotels to eco-lodges. The sky is truly the limit.
I personally stayed at the stunning Dijiwa Blue Karma in case you’re looking for a luxury hotel recommendation.
I wrote an entire hotel review on this so do check it out. But right off the bat, I can say that it was straight up magical.
Activities
Wellness
Ubud is perfect destination for yoga retreats and various wellness getaways. I also think shopping is great there. You can pick up so many things.
There is a plethora of spa treatments and wellness activities. I still remember my otherworldly massage experience at the Blue Karma hotel.
Someone please take me back. one of my fondest Bali memories is a Jamu cooking class.
Learning to make local delicacies is such a great way to connect with the Balinese Culture and go a little bit deeper.
Cultural experiences
If you find yourself wondering whether or not Ubud would be too boring for you, rest assure. I found that there were plenty of activities to keep one occupied.
Between Balinese dance performances, cooking classes, and art galleries…
Outdoor Activities
My fellow outdoor people rejoice!
Ubud is a playground for grownups who love to lead an active lifestyle.
You can go hiking, cycling, and visit nearby local villages. One of my friend even went white water rafting in Sidemen, a very popular adventure spot.
My friend also travelled there as a solo female and her feedback was nothing but raving positivity.
Overview of Canggu
Geography and Atmosphere
Canggu is located on the Southern coast of Bali. It is a very unique area. Imagine a vibrant community. I also liked that the vibe is so laid back.
And another thing that is great about that spot is that it is is extremely aesthetic.
You think you know aesthetics?
Think again!
Bali takes is to the next level and Canggu is always on top of the latest aesthetic trends. This is where you will find a crazy amount of coffee shops.
Because there is so much competition and so many spots vying for your attention, they all try to outdo themselves.
So that’s why in Canggu, you’re left with an insane number of trendy shops.
Key Attractions
Beaches
People don’t usually go to Bali for their beach per se but still, it is really nice to carve some time to relax on the sandbank.
You have a few options such as Batu Bolong Beach, Echo Beach, and Pererenan Beach.
I personally really love Pererenan because I found it to be super calm and local.
There is plenty of places to spread around and I found that it’s so meditative.
One of my favourite thing to do was to pick up some lunch and head over there with my favourite blanket and a book.
I am no kidding when I say this is one of my fondest memories of Bali.
Cafés and Restaurants
Now you can presume from everything I just said, there are lots of trendy cafes and popular dining spots for days.
Check out my Bali restaurants guide for some of my favourite recommendations.
Accommodation
When it comes to places to stay, the sky is the limit. You will find all sorts of options.
Yes, you can stay in hotels but the happening spots of Canggu are mostly serviced by apartments rentals and family operated businesses
- Types of accommodation available: luxury villas, boutique hotels, family-run guesthouses.
- Recommended places to stay: I ended up moving around and staying at a couple of serviced apartments
Activities
- Surfing: Surf spots for various skill levels and surf schools. I wrote a whole beginner surfing guide to help you. So check it out
- Shopping and Dining: Bali has some of the best shopping ever. Expect lots of trendy boutiques, markets, and food experiences. Here is my favorite market guide, some places to buy souvenirs and more unique and ethical items.
- Nightlife: You will also find lots of bars, clubs, and evening entertainment options. They have a ridiculous amount of beach clubs also such as Finns, Ku De Ta and La Brisa.
Comparing Ubud and Canggu
Atmosphere and Vibe:
- Ubud: Cultural, peaceful, and nature-oriented.
Yes, you will find the beautiful rice fields all throughout Bali.
But Canggu has a lot of construction going on.
I even witness my little peaceful lush street get totally transformed.
Within a few days, I went from staring at an expansive green vista to being surrounded by four different construction sites.
The landscape is much more dramatic in Ubud. Plus you will be in a better location to explore waterfalls and all sorts of adventures.
- Canggu: Trendy, lively, and beach-focused.
The locals warmth was something that I noticed right away. Yes people are really welcoming all over Bali.
But I would say that you find them a bit more grounded in Ubud. You can most definitely expect friendly services and world famous Balinese hospitality wherever you go.
Cultural vs. Coastal
- Overall Vibes
- Ubud: Emphasis on culture, art, and spirituality. There is even a heavy mystical aura in the air.
- Canggu: Emphasis on beach life, surfing, and modern conveniences. A sort of one stop shop. wellness is still very much on offer with lots of options.
- Activities and Interests:
- Ubud: Ideal for wellness, cultural immersion, and nature hikes. This is one of the best places to attend a yoga, or dance wellness retreat
- Canggu: Best for surfing, beach activities, and vibrant social scene. You will never get bored. Also perfect for fitness enthusiasts.
- Accommodation and Dining:
- Ubud: More traditional and boutique-style accommodation, focus on local cuisine. Ubud feels a bit more authentic and wild.
- Canggu: Range of modern accommodations and diverse dining options.
- Accessibility and Transportation:
- Ubud: Central location, can be a bit more remote. That said, I think you should definitely make it to Ubud during your visit to the island of Gods
- Canggu: Closer to Ngurah Rai International Airport, easy access to other southern Bali attractions. Very convenient but on the flip side, traffic is a disaster. But getting a scooter makes transport a bit more bearable.
- Internet speed and accessibility
Maybe it was just me but I did find the connection a little bit better in Ubud.
Which is really surprising because it often feels like such a remote location.
Who Should Choose Ubud
I like to think of Ubud as the spiritual hub of Bali. There is a very different energy in Ubud. It’s really hard to describe. I noticed it right away.
Besides, I’m not the only person to say exactly that. Many of my friends also feel this intense spiritual magnetism in the air.
It’s the perfect place for anyone seeking tranquility, cultural experiences, and wellness activities.
Nature lovers will have an awesome time. It’s also one of the best places to learn about Balinese traditions.
Who Should Choose Canggu
Canggu is overall very busy. It’s the happening place of Bali. There are lots of things going on all the time. It’s busy and extremely trendy.
If you are a traveller looking for a lively beach atmosphere, surfing, and modern amenities, Canggu is perfect for you.
Canggu is also very popular with digital nomads and those who enjoy a vibrant café culture.
What about nightlife, I hear you ask?
You betcha!
Canggu will keep you shaking your booty until the early mornings.
Conclusion
And this sums up my Ubud Vs Canggu Bali guide.
The goal was to help you decide which area would be best suited for you.
Both Canggu and Ubud couldn’t be further apart from one another when it comes to overall vibes.
Of course, I believe you should visit both as they are very different.
That said, this blog was to help you decide how much time to allocate to each based on your own personal interests and travel goals.
Bali is amazing and I hope you love it just as much as I do.
Now go out there and live your own adventure.
And don’t ever forget how awesome you are 😘
More Bali Resources
- My favourite spots to shop in Bali
- Don’t miss these Restaurants
- I have to be honest, you might hate Bali at first
- Seriously, what’s the big deal with Bali anyway?
- My favourite souvenirs ideas from Ubud
- Unique items to get in Bali
- Best mindfulness activities in Canggu
- Things to know before you go surfing in Bali
- 10 Unique Fun Things to Do in Bali, for my wellness girlies
- La Brisa Sunday Market
- Is Bali safe for woman?
Solo Female Travel Resources
Women Self Love Wellness Retreat
I am so passionate about women empowerment. Everything I do is based on this. I want to see more women embrace their authentic selves.
Trust me life gets so much better. That’s the main focus of my self love women retreat.
In this Wellness retreat, we go deep. I really love to connect with my fellow sisters. That’s why I only do small groups of 10-12 women.
This retreat is an invitation to embody your feminine and to dive into radical self love. Growth and shedding past limiting beliefs is the focal point.
We do this through various workshops, wellness practices such as breathwork and lots of somatic movement.
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Also, don’t forget to stay in touch for my Bali self love women wellness retreat, for pure feminine embodiment and lots of dancing also.
My Women Self Improvement & Travel Podcast
There is a whole world waiting for you to discover.
Cheers to your next adventure
On that note, I am leaving you with this popular episode from my women podcast “She thrives” with Stef Barti
Keep being awesome 🙂
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