Situated in the eastern region of Bali, Candidasa is a modern village where people come to soak up the sun on the beach and swim in the cool, clear water.
This former fishing village still has a somewhat sleepy feel to it, which for many is part of the appeal. Sun worshippers can choose between the laidback feel of Labuhan Amuk Bay or the more upmarket Balina Beach. When it comes to eating, Candidasa’s restaurants are considered by many to be some of the best in the region, and there is plenty of fresh fish available.
When it’s time to move on, many people choose to travel to Lombok and one of the islands just off the coast of Bali via Padang Bai, a ferry port located at the west end of Labuhan Amuk Bay. There are a number of pretty islands to explore and this is also a good way to spend a few hours before returning to Candidasa.
When to Go
The ideal time to visit Candidasa is during Bali’s dry season, from April to October, when the weather is sunny, and conditions are best for diving and snorkeling. During the wet season (November to March), rain showers are common, but the area remains beautiful and is typically less crowded.
Things to Do
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Beach Relaxation: Candidasa’s beaches are smaller and often quieter than Bali’s southern beaches. Though erosion has impacted the shoreline, several hotels have created sandy beach areas, and nearby Pasir Putih Beach (White Sand Beach) offers clear water and a more traditional beach experience.
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Diving and Snorkeling: Candidasa is a gateway to some of Bali’s best underwater sites. Just a short boat ride away, you’ll find Blue Lagoon and Padang Bai, known for vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including reef sharks and turtles. The more adventurous can explore dive sites like Gili Tepekong and Mimpang, where strong currents attract larger pelagic species.
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Exploring Temples: Candidasa has several historic temples. Pura Candidasa is located on a hillside with views over the lagoon and is an important temple for locals. Nearby, Goa Lawah Temple (Bat Cave Temple) is one of Bali’s oldest and most sacred temples, known for its unique cave filled with thousands of bats.
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Trekking and Nature Walks: The lush countryside around Candidasa offers beautiful trekking routes through rice terraces, valleys, and hills. Popular trekking spots include Tenganan Village, an ancient Bali Aga village known for its unique customs and double ikat weaving tradition, and the trails around Mount Agung.
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Day Trips: Candidasa is an ideal base for exploring eastern Bali. The Tirta Gangga Water Palace, with its stunning water gardens and tiered fountains, is only a 30-minute drive away. Lempuyang Temple, with its famous “Gates of Heaven” viewpoint, is also nearby and offers breathtaking views of Mount Agung on clear days.
Getting There
Most visitors to Candidasa arrive in Ngurah Rai International Airport. There are regular buses to Candidasa from Denpasar’s large bus station (4 hours), and there are also buses to Sanyan from surrounding towns and cities such as Amlampura (30 minutes).
Where to Stay
Candidasa has a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Many options offer oceanfront views, private beach areas, and easy access to diving facilities. Budget travelers can find guesthouses and homestays for around $20 per night, while mid-range hotels average $40–$70. Upscale resorts with beachfront villas range from $100–$300 per night.
Where to Eat
Dining in Candidasa is casual and varied, with options ranging from local warungs to beachfront restaurants and international cuisine. Local favorites include Warung Padang Kecag for traditional Balinese dishes and Lezat Beach Restaurant for fresh seafood and Western fare. For a unique experience, many restaurants offer Balinese cooking classes where guests can learn traditional recipes and techniques.
Need to Know
- Worth it? Those who are exploring East Bali will probably want to take a break on the beach in Candidasa.
- What to do: sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, boat trip to explore the nearby islands.
- Best time to go: during the dry season between May and September.
- How long? A day or less is enough time to soak up the sun in Candidasa.
- Trivia: Candidasa was formerly known as Teluk Kehen, which means bay of fire in the local dialect.