Yes, the surf is great. But Bali's best experiences are an hour or two away — rice terraces, temples, sunrise hikes. Here are the day trips worth taking.
Canggu has world-class surf, hipster cafes, and golden sunsets. But if you only ever stay in Canggu, you're missing the best of Bali. Some of the island's most unforgettable experiences are just a scooter or grab ride away.
After years of hosting travelers at our Canggu Surf Paradise, here are the five day trips that consistently get the strongest reactions from guests.
1. Ubud — The Cultural Heart
Distance: About 1 hour from Canggu Best for: Rice terraces, art galleries, monkey forest, yoga retreats
Ubud is the opposite of Canggu — slower, greener, more spiritual. The drive itself is half the experience: winding roads through rice paddies, villages with stone temples, and that classic Bali countryside.
Must-do in a day:
- Walk the Tegallalang Rice Terraces (the iconic Instagram spot — but go early to avoid crowds)
- Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest (yes, the monkeys can be aggressive — don't bring food, sunglasses, or loose jewelry)
- Have lunch at a warung with a rice paddy view (warung means small family-owned restaurant)
- Visit the Ubud Traditional Art Market for souvenirs (bring cash, bargain kindly)
Practical: Hire a driver for the day (full-day rate, fuel included). Self-driving scooter is possible but the roads have steep climbs and sudden rain — not for beginners.
2. Uluwatu Temple + Padang-Padang Beach
Distance: About 1 hour 15 minutes from Canggu (longer due to traffic) Best for: Iconic temple, sunset Kecak dance, surf
You've probably seen the photos — the cliff-side temple, the surf break below. Worth seeing once in your life, even if it's touristy. Combine with a surf session at Padang-Padang or Bingin on the same day.
Must-do in a day:
- Arrive at Uluwatu Temple by 4:00 PM (skip the crowds)
- Walk the cliff path (stunning views)
- Watch the Kecak fire dance at 6 PM (60 minutes, no dialogue)
- Eat sunset dinner at Single Fin (cliff-top, cold Bintangs)
Practical: Read our full Uluwatu Temple guide for monkey safety tips and how to avoid the tourist trap. We also have a hostel in Ungasan (5.6 mi from the airport) if you want to base yourself closer to the Bukit Peninsula.
3. Mt. Batur Sunrise Hike
Distance: About 2 hours from Canggu Best for: Active travelers, sunrise chasers, Instagram bragging rights
The most popular sunrise hike in Bali. You start at 4 AM, hike 1.5 hours up an active volcano, reach the summit by 6 AM just as the sun rises over the clouds. The view is genuinely otherworldly.
Must-do:
- Summit Mt. Batur (1,717m)
- Eat boiled eggs cooked in the volcanic steam at the top (yes, this is a thing)
- Visit the Batur natural hot springs afterward (your legs will thank you)
Practical: Book through a local guide (per-person rate including hotel pickup, breakfast, and hot spring access). Don't try this solo — the trail can be confusing in the dark.
4. Nusa Penida Day Trip
Distance: About 1 hour drive to Sanur + 45 min fast boat = ~2 hours total Best for: Crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, manta rays
Nusa Penida is Bali's wild sister island — less developed, more dramatic landscapes, and the snorkeling is unreal. A day trip is doable but tight; overnight is better if you can swing it.
Must-do in a day:
- Kelingking Beach (the famous T-Rex cliff — the photo you've seen)
- Angel's Billabong (natural infinity pool)
- Broken Beach (rock arch)
- Snorkel with manta rays at Manta Point (if season is right, July-September)
Practical: Book a day tour (per person including fast boat, transport, lunch, and snorkeling). Independent travel is possible but the roads are rough and signs are limited.
5. Sidemen Valley
Distance: About 1 hour 30 minutes from Canggu Best for: Quiet escape, rice paddies, traditional villages
Sidemen is what Ubud was 20 years ago — terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and almost no tourists. It's the perfect day trip if you've done Ubud already and want something more authentic.
Must-do:
- Walk through rice terraces (less crowded than Tegallalang)
- Visit a traditional weaving village
- Eat lunch at a warung with a valley view (the food is exceptional and cheap)
- Optional: visit a local coffee plantation
Practical: Hire a driver for the day (full-day rate). The roads are winding but scenic — bring motion sickness pills if you're sensitive.
Practical Day Trip Tips
- Start early — most tourist sites are best in the morning before crowds arrive
- Hire a driver for the day rather than self-driving — it's safer, less stressful, and you can enjoy the views
- Bring cash — many warungs and small shops don't take cards
- Wear sunscreen — even cloudy days have strong UV
- Bring a sarong — required for temple visits, available at most entrances for a small donation
Both our Canggu Surf Paradise and Uluwatu Surf Paradise are great bases for these day trips. We can help arrange drivers, share local tips, and connect you with guides. Just ask at reception.
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