'I go to Bali once a month and this is my ultimate guide to Canggu.'

I've been exploring Bali since I was a child, with my grandmother living in Ubud and extended family spread across the island.

And in recent years, Canggu has become my favourite place to stay. Once a sleepy surf spot, it's now transformed into Bali's hippest area, but still maintains a laid-back charm that makes it so special.

Having done more trips to Bali than I can count, here's my insider's guide to experiencing the best of Canggu.

Watch: If you need a guide on what to wear, Mia's got you too! Post continues below.

Where to eat.

Breakfast spots.

• Times Warung: Grab a beanbag, order their chocolate croissant or avo on toast with a coffee and a turmeric shot. I like to do no screen time in the morning, and it's pretty easy when you're looking straight onto the waves rolling in.

• Deli by Kita: If you can't be bothered walking to Times, head here for the best sandwiches on the island and the nicest staff you'll meet.

• Acme: A relaxed breakfast spot on Jl. Nelayan.

• Baked in Pererenan: For delicious bread and café food.

Local food.

Warung Sika. Image: Supplied.

• Warung Sika: My personal favourite for authentic Balinese flavours and variety. You'll pay less than $5AUD for a meal and drink!

• Warung Local in Pererenan: Great food with beautiful rice field views.

• Warung Varuna and Waruna Sedasa: Popular options, though I think Warung Sika has the best flavours.

Dinner and drinks.

Mei Mei. Image: Supplied.

• Mei Mei: Yuki's new sister restaurant and my absolute favourite. It's a moody vibe inside, so I recommend a later sitting — that way, you can enjoy the sunset before having dinner. Every single dish is 10/10 with grilled dishes and a variety of Asian flavours.

• Mason: Great for couples or a big group, as I find the dishes are well suited to sharing — think woodfired Barrumundi and slow cooked lamb. 

• Shelter: You'll need to book as it can get very busy, but the zaatar pretzel and cocktails are worth it. 

• Revolver: Go here for classic fish or chicken tacos and my favourite drink in Bali, the Cherry Kaffir Lime Cooler.

Where to stay.

The Cali Villas: I'm lucky enough to be the marketing manager for the Cali Villas, so this is, of course, my go-to when I travel back once a month. 

It's perfectly located within walking distance to Nelayan Beach, and they provide bikes and Vespas on site, so it's really easy to get around. Plus, the private pools and decor are super cute.

Image: The Cali Villas.

Private homes: Or if you're going with a large group, it can be fun to rent a big private home, and Booking.com also have some good options, and often at prices that are comparable to or cheaper than hotels.

What to do.

Beaches.

• Nelayan Beach: Perfect for morning walks and watching surfers.

• The Lawn Canggu: The best sunset spot in the area. It has a very chill beach club right next to Times Warung, they always have a DJ, and the cocktails are great.

  The Lawn Canggu. Image: supplied.

Beauty and Wellness.

• Maja Spa: Get their lymphatic massage, but don't be fooled by the name — it's gentler with a Balinese pressure twist. They also have showers and amenities on site, so you can freshen up and continue your day without feeling oily in the humidity.

• Spring Spa: The hair treatments in Bali are next level. Treat yourself to a Davines or Olaplex treatment here and thank me later.

• Rustic Sun: For great nail services.

• Dispensary by Body Factor: For delicious protein smoothies.

  The Maja Spa. Image: supplied.

Shopping.

• Grandkids: A vintage store just a few steps from Maja Spa, Grandkids has fun pieces from Miu Miu shoes to vintage blouses and bags.

• Indigo Luna: For yoga activewear.

• Les Basics: For denim and tees.

• Bali Tailor: For leather sandals and bags.

Getting around.

I'm yet to get my motorbike licence, so I just use Gojek to get everywhere! Just make sure to always wear a helmet. If you don't want to wear the Gojek helmets, places like The Cali also provide helmets to guests.

Luckily, many attractions in Canggu are within walking distance of each other, especially around Nelayan Beach area.

The Cali Villa's provided Gojeks'. Image: supplied.

Daily itinerary suggestion.

Morning: Start with breakfast at Times Warung on Nelayan Beach and relax as you watch the waves roll in.

Daytime: It gets hot during the day in Bali, so I recommend heading out in the morning and seeking shade between 1-3pm. Spend some downtime in your villa before heading to Maja Spa for a massage. Afterwards, check out Grandkids vintage store nearby.

Late afternoon: Get a hair treatment at Spring Spa so you feel fresh for dinner.

Sunset and dinner: Head to The Lawn Canggu for sunset drinks and vibes with their resident DJ. After a few cocktails, make your way to Mei Mei for dinner. Finish the night with another walk down the beach for a nightcap before heading back to your accommodation.

For more from Nissa, follow her on TikTok.

Feature Image: Supplied.