Candidasa Bali (or Candi Dasa) is one of those places that flies under the radar. It’s tucked away on the east coast, far from the traffic and nightlife of the south, and that’s exactly why some people love it.
It’s not the kind of spot where you’ll find big shopping malls or rows of beach clubs. Instead, think calm lagoons, beachside resorts, and easy access to some of East Bali’s best temples, water palaces, and diving spots.
When people talk about the best areas to stay in Bali, Candidasa rarely tops the list, but that’s part of the appeal. If you’re looking for a quieter, slower side of the island with a mix of culture and coastal views, Candidasa Bali is worth considering.
Candidasa Bali Quick Overview
Candidasa is a small coastal town on Bali’s east coast, about 90 minutes to 2 hours from Denpasar Airport. It’s nowhere near as crowded as the south, and that’s the appeal.
You won’t find long stretches of sandy beach here. Instead, it’s a mix of rocky coastline, man-made lagoons, and small sandy patches that are good enough for swimming or sunbaking.
The town itself is pretty laid-back. Expect a main strip with restaurants, dive shops, a few bars, and a handful of resorts. It’s more about relaxing, snorkelling, or using it as a base to explore East Bali than it is about partying or shopping.
🌡️ Average Temp: 27–31°C (day), 23–25°C (night)
✈️ Distance from Airport: ~60 km / 90 minutes by car
🏖️ Beach Access: Limited. Mostly rocky coast and man-made lagoons
🏄 Surfing: Not a surf spot (nearest break is Jasri Beach)
🍽️ Dining Scene: Mostly Indonesian, with some Western options
🍸 Nightlife: Very quiet. A few bars, mostly restaurant drinks
💸 Price Level: Mid to high. Resorts dominate, budget options are older
🏨 Accommodation Range: Beachside resorts + some villas inland
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly: Yes, but quieter atmosphere than the south
🚕 Getting Around: Best with a private driver. Very little transport options
What is Candidasa Known For?
Candidasa Bali is best known for calm beaches, diving, and snorkelling. The nearby islands and reefs are popular for spotting turtles, reef sharks, and sometimes even manta rays. If you’re into underwater stuff, this is one of Bali’s better bases.
It’s also known as a quiet alternative to the south of Bali. People come here to escape the crowds, recharge, and get easy access to East Bali’s cultural sites like Tirta Gangga, Lempuyang Temple, and the water palaces.
You’ll also hear it mentioned as a “stopover” town. A lot of travellers stay a night or two on the way to Amed or the ferry to Lombok, but plenty end up staying longer because of the slower pace.
Where is Candidasa in Bali?
Candidasa sits on the east coast of Bali in Karangasem Regency. It’s tucked between Padangbai to the south and Amed further up the coast to the north.
The town itself runs along the main coastal road, with the ocean on one side and hills rising up on the other. Head inland and you’ll hit rice fields and small villages pretty quickly.
It’s a good base if you want to explore East Bali. You’re close to places like Tenganan Village, Tirta Gangga, Lempuyang Temple, and the Karangasem water palaces.
- From Canggu: 2.5 hrs (66 km)
- From Kuta: 2 hrs (60 km)
- From Nusa Dua: 2.5 hrs (75 km)
- From Sanur: 1 hr 45 mins (50 km)
- From Seminyak: 2.5 hrs (60 km)
- From Ubud: 1.5 hrs (45 km)
- From Uluwatu: 2 hrs 45 mins (86 km)
Candidasa vs Rest of Bali
Candidasa feels like a different island compared to the south. You don’t get the endless beach clubs, shopping malls, or late-night parties. Instead, it’s quiet nights, small family-run restaurants, and a slower pace.
Compared to Ubud, Candidasa is coastal rather than jungle. You still get cultural access (temples, traditional villages, and ceremonies) but with the bonus of diving and snorkelling right offshore.
If you’ve been to Amed, Candidasa has a similar relaxed vibe but with more choice in accommodation and dining. It’s not as built up as Sanur or Nusa Dua, and that’s part of the charm.
Bottom line: if you want action and nightlife, stick to the south. If you want calm days by the water and easy access to East Bali, Candidasa Bali is the better bet.
Is Candidasa Safe?
Yes, Candidasa is safe. It’s a quiet town where most visitors are there to relax, dive, or explore nearby temples. You don’t really get the same rowdy nightlife crowd that you see in Kuta or Seminyak.
Like anywhere in Bali, the main things to watch out for are petty theft if you leave valuables unattended, and the usual road safety if you’re renting a scooter.
The ocean here can sometimes have strong currents, especially outside the protected lagoons, so stick to swimming where locals or other travellers are in the water.
Overall, Candidasa Bali is one of the calmer and safer parts of Bali to stay in.
How Expensive is Candidasa?
Candidasa leans a bit pricier compared to other parts of Bali. A lot of the accommodation is made up of beachside resorts, so expect a decent chunk of options to be on the higher end.
That said, you can still find solid mid-range hotels and villas if you’re not chasing luxury. They usually give you good value without the big price tag.
Budget stays do exist, but keep in mind Candidasa Bali isn’t really geared toward mass tourism. Some of the cheaper spots are older and a bit run down, so you’ll want to manage expectations.
How to Get to Candidasa
Candidasa is about 65 km from Bali Airport, which usually takes around 1 hour 45 mins by car. The drive follows the east coast, passing Sanur and Padangbai before reaching town.
The easiest way to get from Bali Airport to Candidasa is by booking a private airport transfer. My driver will meet you at arrivals and wait, even if your flight is delayed. It’s a fixed, stress-free option compared to dealing with airport taxis.
I don’t recommend relying on the airport taxi stand—prices are usually higher, and many drivers aren’t keen on making the longer trip out east. With a pre-booked transfer, you know exactly what you’re paying for and who’s picking you up.
Candidasa Beach
Don’t come to Candidasa Bali expecting a long stretch of soft sand like in Seminyak or Nusa Dua. The natural beach here was mostly eroded years ago, and what’s left are small patches of sand and rocky coastline.
To fix this, breakwaters and man-made lagoons were built along the shore. These create little sandy coves where you can swim and sunbake, but it’s not the classic Bali beach vibe you’ll find at some of the best beaches in Bali.
Most people staying in Candidasa use the beach more as a base for snorkelling and boat trips out to the nearby islands than for laying out on the sand.
Best Time to Visit Candidasa
The good thing about Candidasa is that it works year-round. If you’re coming here to relax or to escape the busier parts of Bali, the vibe stays the same no matter when you visit.
Dry season (April–October) is the obvious winner for mostly sunny days and calmer seas, making it great for diving, snorkelling, or just enjoying the water.
During wet season (November–March), you might get some cloudy days and morning showers, but they usually pass quickly. The atmosphere in town doesn’t really change—it’s still laid-back and uncrowded.
👉 See Also: Best Time to Visit Bali
Getting Around Candidasa
Making your way around Candidasa Bali can be a bit tricky. It’s still very much a rural town, so you won’t find the same level of services and transport options you get in the south.
The easiest way to get around is by booking a private car and driver for the day. Whether you want to check out nearby beaches, head up to Tirta Gangga, or spend the day exploring Karangasem and Amed, you’ve got the flexibility to plan your own route.
All of my drivers are familiar with East Bali’s roads and know how to handle the back routes. You get 10 hours included, with the option to extend if you need more time.
Fuel and taxes are covered, so all you need to do is set your location, choose your pick-up time, and your driver will be there.
Where to Stay in Candidasa
Like I said, Candidasa is full of beachside resorts. If you want to wake up to blue water views and bright sunshine, this is a solid place to base yourself.
For more privacy, look at villas on the north side of the main road. If you’d rather be closer to the ocean, most of the south side is lined with hotels and resorts that sit right by the beach.
- Candi Beach Resort & Spa Bali
- Nirwana Beach & Resort Candidasa
- Ramayana Candidasa Beach Resort
- Lotus Bungalows
- Bayshore Villas Candidasa Bali
- Puri Bagus Candidasa Resort
- Orlowsky Discovery Candidasa Hotel
What to Do in Candidasa Bali
Candidasa itself is more of a base than a packed activity hub, but there’s still enough to keep you busy if you stick around.
Most travellers come for the diving and snorkelling, or use the town as a starting point for exploring East Bali’s temples, water palaces, and traditional villages.
- Tenganan Village
One of the oldest traditional villages in Bali, known for its preserved culture and unique double ikat weaving. A great spot to step back in time and see Bali before mass tourism. - Candidasa Lotus Lagoon
Right in the heart of town, this lagoon is filled with blooming lotus flowers and overlooked by a small temple. It’s free to visit and makes for a quick, peaceful stop, especially in the morning when the flowers are open. - Taman Ujung Water Palace
A former royal water palace with large pools, bridges, and gardens overlooking the ocean. Peaceful, scenic, and perfect for an afternoon stroll. - Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Another famous water palace, built around natural springs with fountains, koi ponds, and stepping stones. It’s one of the most photographed spots in East Bali. - Lempuyang Temple
Home of the “Gates of Heaven,” this temple sits high on Mount Lempuyang with views of Mount Agung in the background. Be prepared for a bit of a climb and possible queues for photos. - Virgin Beach
Also known as White Sand Beach, this is one of East Bali’s nicest stretches of sand. Clear water, small warungs for food, and far fewer crowds than the south. - Blue Lagoon Beach
Just south near Padangbai, this small bay is known for snorkelling. Calm waters and lots of fish make it a good half-day trip from Candidasa. - Puri Agung Karangasem
The old royal palace in Amlapura, showcasing Balinese and European-style architecture. A mix of history and local culture, worth a short visit. - Bukit Cinta
A sunrise viewpoint with Mount Agung rising in the background. Come early for orange skies and one of the best photo ops in East Bali. - Gembleng Waterfall
A hidden waterfall with natural pools where you can take a dip. It’s quiet compared to Bali’s more famous waterfalls and offers jungle views. - Samsara Living Museum
An interactive cultural spot in Karangasem where you can learn about traditional Balinese life, from cooking to ceremonies. Good for families and anyone curious about local culture.
👉 Here’s my complete list of things to do in Candidasa for your time in East Bali
Can You Surf in Candidasa?
Not really. Candidasa itself isn’t a surf spot—it’s more about snorkelling, diving, and relaxed coastal vibes. The coastline has breakwaters and lagoons, which kill off any decent surf.
If you’re set on surfing in East Bali, the closest option is Jasri Beach, about 20 minutes further east. It’s a local surf break with a bit of a rocky entry, but on the right swell you can score a few fun waves. Just don’t expect it to compare with Bali’s world-class surf spots.
Bottom line: Candidasa isn’t much of a surfing destination. If waves are your priority, head to Keramas or down south to Kuta, Canggu, and Uluwatu.
Where to Eat in Candidasa
Candidasa doesn’t have a buzzing restaurant and cafe scene like Seminyak or Ubud. Most of the spots here have been around for years, with a few newer ones bringing a more modern touch.
Food leans heavily Indonesian—think nasi goreng, satay, and fresh seafood—but you’ll have no trouble finding Western options if you’re craving pizza, pasta, or burgers.
Reservations aren’t really needed either. Traffic is low, and in the off-season you might even have the whole place to yourself.
- Lezat Beach Restaurant – Balinese / Indonesian
- Vincent’s – Western
- Crazy Kangaroo – Seafood
- Dining Room – Pizza & Pasta
- Oketo Cafe Candidasa – Cafe
- The 48 Shisha & Resto – Western
- Warung Puspa Candidasa – Indonesian
👉 See also: Best Restaurants in Candidasa
Candidasa at Night
Candidasa is quiet once the sun goes down. You won’t find clubs, beach parties, or late-night chaos like in the south.
There are a handful of small bars, but most people end up grabbing a drink at the restaurants that stay open a bit later.
Don’t expect a full cocktail menu—usually it’s Bintangs, a few other beers, and some basic local cocktails.
If nightlife is high on your list, Candidasa probably isn’t the place for you. Here, evenings are more about slow dinners, a couple of drinks, and an early night.
What to Pack & What to Wear
Candidasa is warm year-round, so keep it simple: light clothes, swimwear, and something comfortable for walking around temples and villages. A hat and sunscreen are musts if you’re planning day trips around East Bali.
Pack a decent pair of sandals or flip-flops for the beach and a pair of trainers if you’re heading inland to explore. For temple visits, bring a sarong or wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees—some places provide them, but it’s easier if you’ve got your own.
At night, most people keep it casual. Restaurants don’t have dress codes, so shorts and a t-shirt are fine. If you’re staying in a higher-end resort, you might want one slightly nicer outfit for dinner, but even then it’s pretty relaxed.
👉 If you want a full checklist, grab my Bali packing list.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Candidasa
Pros
- Quiet and laid-back compared to the busy south
- Great base for exploring East Bali (Tirta Gangga, Lempuyang, Tenganan, etc.)
- Good diving and snorkelling nearby
- Plenty of mid-range and resort-style accommodation
- Less touristy, feels more authentic
Cons
- Not much nightlife—very quiet after dark
- Beaches are limited and mostly man-made lagoons
- Budget stays can feel a bit dated
- Limited shopping and amenities compared to bigger towns
- Public transport is almost non-existent—you’ll need a driver or scooter
Is Candidasa Worth Staying in?
Candidasa isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for parties, shopping, or wide sandy beaches, you’ll be disappointed. It definitely has a niche crowd.
But if you’re after quiet time, a place to relax with your partner, or you want to see an older, slower side of Bali, Candidasa is worth a few nights. It’s also a strong base for exploring East Bali’s temples, villages, and diving spots without the chaos of the south.
When people ask about the best areas to stay in Bali, Candidasa doesn’t usually top the list—but that’s exactly why some travellers love it.
Bottom line: if calm, simple, and authentic is your style, Candidasa will suit you perfectly.
FAQs about Candidasa Bali
How far is Candidasa from Denpasar Airport?
From Bali Airport to Candidasa is about 60 km, which takes roughly 90 minutes to 2 hours by car depending on traffic.
How far is Candidasa from Sanur?
Around 40 km, usually just over an hour’s drive along the east coast road.
How far is Candidasa from Uluwatu?
About 85 km. Expect 2.5–3 hours by car since you need to cut across the island.
Is Candidasa crowded with tourists?
Not at all. It’s one of Bali’s quieter coastal towns, with far fewer crowds than the south.
How safe is Candidasa for tourists?
Very safe. It’s a low-key town with little crime. Just watch your valuables and be cautious swimming outside the lagoons due to currents.
How is the nightlife in Candidasa?
Almost non-existent. A few bars and restaurants stay open later, but don’t expect clubs or parties.
Is there much to do in Candidasa Bali?
Enough to fill a few days. Diving, snorkelling, spa days, and day trips to East Bali’s temples and water palaces are the main draws.
Can you surf in Candidasa Bali?
Not in town. The coast is protected by breakwaters. The closest break is Jasri Beach, 20 minutes east.
How does Candidasa compare to Ubud?
Candidasa is coastal and laid-back, while Ubud is inland, busier, and focused on culture and rice terraces. Both give access to temples and tradition, but in very different settings.
What is the history of Candidasa?
Originally a fishing village, it grew into a tourist town in the 1970s. Much of its natural beach was eroded due to overdevelopment, which is why breakwaters were built.
Are there monkeys in Candidasa Bali?
You might see them at nearby temples or in the hills, but it’s not like Ubud’s Monkey Forest. The most known spot to encounter monkeys is near Sang Hyang Ambu Temple.
How do you say Candidasa?
Locals pronounce it “Chan-dee-dah-sah.”
