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CANDIDASA GUIDE – BALI

Candidasa is known for…

  • Laidback coastal village
  • Affordable front beach bungalows
  • Snorkelling and dive spots
  • Traditional Bali Aga village
  • Quiet atmosphere

How is Candidasa in general?

Adventures in the East

Located a few kilometres away from Padangbai port, and about one-hour drive from Sanur, this village offers a similar atmosphere with the latter. Candidasa is one of the most serene locations, with pockets of small beaches along this side of the island. From here, you see the magnificent view of the Lombok Strait. Candidasa offers beautiful sunrises, some great restaurants and stunning beachfront villas. Candidasa is a seaside town with the backdrop of green hills and paddy fields. It’s a tranquil getaway and perfect for walks and snorkelling.

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Candidasa – Guide & Insights

Candidasa is a relatively small village with the Jl Raya Candidasa main road going through it, and you’ll find that the beachfront properties of 5* hotels and resorts are right by the ocean. Since Candidasa serves as a base for travelers who seek to adventure out east away from the tourist areas, it even becomes a rest stop for those looking to visit Amed.

Hotel & Resorts

From a simple bungalow by the beach to an international five-star resort; Candidasa has several options of accommodation that will meet any traveller’s budget. Don’t miss out on the relaxing view of the ocean from whichever lodging you choose, because they’re all so near and walkable. A quiet break from everything, Candidasa has all kinds of accommodation just a stone’s throw away towards the beach.

Accommodation

The hotels have their restaurants for your convenience, and most serve a selection of international food. If you’re seeking out a place to eat outside the lavish hotels, you can wander around the main street of Raya Candidasa and check out the great lineup of restaurants serving delicious local and international dishes. Although the village doesn’t offer a vibrant nightlife, however you’ll find some cafes feature local bands or oftentimes a Balinese dance performance as entertainment, and pool tables are available in several of the bars in the area.

Going out

Beaches in Candidasa mostly function as ports and fishing villages, as well as seaweed and salt farming, which may be of interest to visitors. Further off the coast, there are several stunning snorkelling and dive spots surrounding three islets, which you can see from the bay. It’s a short half-hour boat ride on the traditional jukung, a fishing canoe. The strong currents might catch divers off guard, however there will be guides and experienced instructors who will advise the expedition, so this would not be an ideal spot for beginners.

Beaches

There is a huge lotus lagoon in the middle of town, which is a magnificent sight when the flowers are in bloom. The village temple originates from the 11th century and is located on the opposite side of the lagoon. Also close by is the isolated village of Tegunan Pegringsingan, one of the oldest villages in Bali. Tenganan village, located northwest of Candidasa, has a rich history, being protected from the influence of outsiders by a solid stone wall. Even as the world evolves around them, they are still upholding their ancient pre-Hindu customs. They are also known for their traditional festivals and unique technique of weaving, called the ‘double ikat’. Visitors are welcomed, and although there is no entrance fee, a small donation is requested as you enter the village.

Several hike trails for explorers looking to get into nature. Adventurous travellers can trek the hilly-scape nearby “Bukit Asah” and set-up a tent for a weekend camping trip. You get a clear view of the ocean and it becomes a great place for sunset spotting. The Gedong Gandhi Ashram near the Lotus lagoon accepts donations for weekly yoga classes in English. Backtracking to Padangbai Port, experience an odyssey by taking a submarine, called the Odyssey, and submerge into the sea for a wonderful experience underwater without having to get wet.

Like many parts in Bali, the village of Candidasa was not discovered until 1960 by visitors. Instead, it was a sleepy town called Cilidasa which means ten children. The name was derived from an old statue in the town temple of the fertility goddess Hariti surrounded by children, local myths have turned the statue into a pilgrimage spot for couples looking to conceive. Back then it was also known by another name, Teluk Kehen, translated to “Bay of Fire”.

Transportation in the area is somewhat difficult—no other public transportation is available except local taxis. Most of the tourists are dropped off on a Friday and picked up on the Sunday. Although most tourists rent scooters to get around Bali, regular bikes are also encouraged to freely explore the surrounding area. However when going into rough terrain through back roads, a car rental with a driver is recommended to view nearby attractions.

TOP Beaches in Candidasa

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Candidasa

Virgin Beach

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