Canggu is an area with several beaches, including Berawa, Nelayan and of course Batu Bolong, which are all increasingly popular with visitors. The most famous beach of the area is Echo Beach, a small stretch of black sand made popular by surfers. This spot has an amazing variety of waves in a small area, which are suitable for intermediate-level surfers but are also popular with visiting and local pros.
The pleasant surrounding area and closeness to everything has meant that a strong expat community has grown here, which can be seen in the life on the beach. At its southern end, an interesting temple can be found as well as a small strip of restaurants and surf shops. Here, there is a thriving beach scene, with plenty of families hanging out, surfers getting some rest, kids running around and riding skateboards, and dogs are playing. Delicious food, high-quality coffee, and cold drinks are served up all day, and at night, barbecues come out for sunset, and an expansive patio overlooking the ocean gets busy with a cheerful and surfy crowd. There are also sometimes bands or DJs performing at night.
The beach itself is black sand and rock and has more of a wild beauty than other Bali beaches. Visitors can walk out onto a rock rising out of the ocean, where offerings are made and fisherman fish. The sea here is not suitable for swimming, as it is wild, with strong currents, and children should not be left alone near the water. Some beach chairs are available along the beach, but most of it is empty. Development here is thriving, with more businesses being built every day, so conditions are changing fast.
Canggu is easy to find and get to, all drivers will know it, and parking is relatively easy. Keep in mind, however, that taxis are not allowed to pick up tourists here, so if you are dropped off, expect to use the local group of drivers that work this area to get home.