Candidasa Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit in Candidasa, Bali, and explore its rich culture, food, and natural attractions. Learn how to get around, where to stay, and what to buy in Candidasa.


Introduction to Candidasa

Candidasa is a charming seaside town in East Bali that has grown in popularity in recent years, yet retains its natural and cultural splendor. This hidden gem of Bali is known for its laid-back ambiance, pristine beaches, and scenic views, which make it the perfect destination for travelers seeking a tranquil and authentic Bali experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at Candidasa, including the best places to visit, must-try dishes, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and more. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Candidasa.

List of Places to Visit in Candidasa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most fascinating aspects of Candidasa is its rich history and culture, which can be discovered through its museums and historical landmarks. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Candidasa include:

  • Tenganan Village: This ancient village is famous for its preserved architecture, unique handwoven textiles, and strict adherence to traditional customs and beliefs.
  • Goa Lawah Temple: This 11th-century Hindu temple is built around a cave and is believed to be the entrance to the underworld.
  • Tirta Gangga Water Palace: This stunning water palace features a collection of pools, fountains, and sculptures, making it a popular spot for Instagram-worthy pictures.

Natural Attractions of Candidasa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you love the outdoors, Candidasa is the perfect place for you. The town is surrounded by lush green hills, serene beaches, and crystal-clear waters, offering a range of outdoor activities for every type of traveler. Some of the top natural attractions in Candidasa include:

  • White Sand Beach: As the name suggests, this beach features soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
  • Mount Agung Trek: Mount Agung is the highest peak in Bali and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Mangrove Forest: Take a boat tour through the mangrove forest to spot various species of birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Candidasa

Candidasa is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with its scenic routes and breathtaking views. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Candidasa:

  • Tenganan Village Trek: This easy trek takes you through the ancient village of Tenganan and its surrounding rice paddies and hills.
  • East Bali Bike Tour: This tour takes you through the lush jungles, rice terraces, and local villages of East Bali.
  • Bukit Asah Sunset Hike: The Bukit Asah hill offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and is one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Candidasa.

Best Things to Do in Candidasa: Activities and Tours

Apart from the natural and cultural attractions, Candidasa also offers a range of unique activities and tours for travelers. Some of the best things to do in Candidasa include:

  • Balinese Cooking Class: Learn how to cook traditional Balinese dishes and immerse yourself in the local culinary culture.
  • Snorkeling and Diving: Candidasa is one of the best spots for snorkeling and diving in Bali, with its clear waters and abundant marine life.
  • Night Market Tour: Explore the vibrant night market of Candidasa, try local street food, and shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Candidasa

If you’re planning a week-long vacation in Candidasa, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activities
1 Arrival in Candidasa, Relax on the beach
2 Tenganan Village tour, Goa Lawah Temple visit
3 Water Palace visit, White Sand beach day trip
4 Bukit Asah sunset hike, Balinese cooking class
5 Mangrove forest boat tour, East Bali bike tour
6 Snorkeling and diving trip to nearby islands
7 Night market tour, Departure from Candidasa

Food and Drink Scene of Candidasa

Must-Try Dishes

Bali is famous for its rich, aromatic cuisine, and Candidasa is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Candidasa:

  • Nasi Campur: A plate of rice served with various side dishes such as meat, vegetables, and egg.
  • Sate Lilit: Grilled skewers made from minced fish, spices, and coconut milk.
  • Lawar: A traditional Balinese salad made from vegetables, minced meat or fish, and spices.

Local Beverages

While in Candidasa, make sure to try some of the local beverages such as:

  • Arak: A traditional distilled alcoholic beverage made from rice or coconut.
  • Brem: A sweet rice wine made from fermented rice.
  • Jamu: A traditional herbal drink made from natural ingredients such as turmeric, ginger, and tamarind.

Where to Stay in Candidasa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Candidasa offers a range of accommodation options for every budget and preference. Some of the best places to stay in Candidasa include:

  • Amankila: A luxury resort that offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding hills.
  • Rama Candidasa Resort and Spa: A mid-range resort that offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.
  • Le Zat Bali: An affordable guesthouse that offers clean and comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

What to Buy in Candidasa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Candidasa is famous for its handicrafts and local products, which make for great souvenirs and gifts. Some of the best things to buy in Candidasa include:

  • Handwoven textiles: Tenganan Village is famous for its unique handwoven textiles, which make for a great souvenir or gift.
  • Sarong: A traditional Balinese garment that can be used as a shawl, skirt, or dress.
  • Batik: A traditional wax-resist dyeing technique used to create colorful fabrics and garments.

Local Culture and Customs of Candidasa

Candidasa is known for its rich culture and customs, which are deeply rooted in Hinduism and Balinese traditions. Some of the customs and traditions of Candidasa include:

  • Performing daily offerings and ceremonies to the gods and ancestors.
  • Wearing traditional Balinese dress during ceremonies and special occasions.
  • Celebrating various Hindu festivals and events throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Candidasa

The best time to visit Candidasa is during the dry season, which is from May to September. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, and the sea is calm, making it perfect for water sports and outdoor activities. However, Candidasa is a year-round destination, with its unique charm and natural beauty that can be experienced all year long.

Do’s and Don’ts of Candidasa

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially in temples and holy places.
  • Bargain when shopping at local markets and street vendors.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing or swimwear when outside the beach or pool area.
  • Disrespect local customs and beliefs or damage the environment.
  • Take pictures of people or places without asking for their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Candidasa

Candidasa is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, it’s always advisable to take necessary precautions such as:

  • Avoiding secluded areas, especially at night.
  • Keeping an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Hiring licensed and reputable tour guides and drivers.

Health in Candidasa

Candidasa has a range of medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, and is relatively safe in terms of public health. However, it’s advisable to take necessary precautions such as:

  • Drinking bottled water instead of tap water.
  • Using mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases.
  • Checking with your doctor for any necessary vaccinations or medication before traveling.

Getting to Candidasa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Candidasa

The nearest airport to Candidasa is Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, which is about 1.5 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Candidasa

Candidasa has a bus station that offers regular bus service to and from various destinations in Bali, including Denpasar and Ubud.

Other Options

Other transportation options to Candidasa include:

  • Private Car: Hiring a private car or taxi is a convenient and comfortable way to get to Candidasa and explore the surrounding areas.
  • Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is a popular option for travelers who want to explore Candidasa and nearby attractions on their own.

How to Get Around in Candidasa

Public transportation in Candidasa is limited, and the best way to get around is by hiring a car, motorbike, or bicycle. However, walking is also a great option, especially for exploring the town’s cultural and natural attractions.

Where to Go Next from Candidasa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in Bali, there are a range of nearby destinations and excursions that you can explore from Candidasa, including:

  • Ubud: A cultural and spiritual hub of Bali, famous for its art and yoga scene.
  • Amed: A quiet coastal town famous for its diving spots and black sand beaches.
  • Nusa Penida: A beautiful island off the coast of Bali famous for its stunning beaches and landscapes.

Conclusion

Candidasa is a hidden gem of Bali that offers a range of natural, cultural, and culinary experiences for travelers. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, go on outdoor adventures, or explore the rich culture of Bali, Candidasa has something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Candidasa and discover all that it has to offer.

Fishing boats on the beach at Candidasa Fishing boats on the beach at Candidasa Map of Candidasa Map of Candidasa Tenganan village Tenganan village The lotus lagoon at Candidasa beach The lotus lagoon at Candidasa beach A typical piece of Geringsing fabric A typical piece of Geringsing fabric