Canggu is currently the most popular place to stay in Bali, but many holiday makers will also consider Jimbaran, which is a beach town, also on mainland Bali, that’s not too far away from Canggu.
But how do you choose between Canggu or Jimbaran? Well, unless the only thing that matters to you is fresh seafood and an endless seafood dinner (in which case the Jimbaran Beach area in South Bali is one of the best places on the island), we’d suggest you use our guide below to make an informed decision before you book your holiday.
About Canggu
Canggu’s the mainland’s MVP for digital nomads, with buzzing streets packed full of global eats, cozy coffee shops, coworking vibes, and, of course, surfing.
It’s got FINNS, the world’s best beach club, the wildest nightlife on the island, and daily hangouts to meet peeps and party.
It’s blown up so much lately that it’s more geared toward expats and nomads now, and it’s definitely less about the backpacker or budget traveler crowd these days.
About Jimbaran
Down at the southern tip of Bali in the Bukit peninsula, Jimbaran’s this chill, family-friendly spot that’s all about killer seafood joints, being super close to Ngurah Rai International Airport, and keeping things easy on the wallet.
It’s still kinda on the come-up since a lot of folks – locals and tourists alike – tend to crash in Kuta or Uluwatu and just breeze through Jimbaran. But don’t sleep on it, it’s got everything you need to live comfy, plus some fancy 5-star resort setups if you’re feeling bougie.
Canggu or Jimbaran? – A Breakdown Of Each Area
As we’ve been in Bali for the long term, we’ve lived the Jimbaran and Canggu life, and here’s the lowdown to help you pick your holiday spot.
When we stack these two up, we’re sorting through a bunch of stuff visitors will care about and we’re keeping it real and chill so you can have the best time on the island.
What Are The Hotels, Resorts, Etc. Like?
In Canggu, you’ve got a whole menu of places to crash, cheap rooms in shared guesthouses or hostels if you’re pinching pennies or luxury hotels or private villas with legit chefs if you’re feeling like you’re killing it.
Whatever your vibe or budget, they’ve got you. Freelancers and remote hustlers? Tons of coliving spots have popped up that won’t break the bank and still feel like a steal. There are boutique hotels galore, too.
We should stress that soon, the local community will be welcoming FINNS Bali Resort, which will be the best hotel on the island.
Over in Jimbaran, it’s mostly two flavors: swanky resorts for the vacay crowd (not quite Nusa Dua-level fancy, though) and cheap digs for foreigners posted up in Bali long-term.
Hotels and villas there can be a bit of a gamble, with fewer options than Canggu for sure, but you can still snag a sweet deal that feels like Canggu prices from a few years back if you’re lucky.
Canggu takes this one, though there is way more variety and quality to pick from. Plus, the closer you are to the beach, the easier it is to stroll around, which isn’t really a thing in Jimbaran.
Where Is The Best Place For A Party?
Canggu totally owns this one. No other spot in Bali keeps the party going ‘til the crack of dawn like Canggu does. You can shoot pool or toss darts with your crew, belt out some karaoke, dance your face off, or vibe to dope international and local DJs because whatever you’re feeling, it’s all there.
Jimbaran’s not totally out of the party game, though, and it’s got some classy resort bars. Including a couple at AYANA Resort (where the Rock Bar’s a must-hit as long as you have deep pockets), but it doesn’t pack the same party punch as Canggu.
That’s why Jimbaran caters more to short-term tourists crashing at those luxury resorts or families who dig quieter, low-key neighborhoods. But if you’re chasing nightlife? Canggu’s the only move on the island, hands down.
Which One Is Best For Shopaholics?
Jimbaran’s got the hookup if you’re into big shopping vibes because it’s slightly closer to Kuta’s massive malls and the Grand Lucky supermarket over in Sanur, and it’s even got its own shopping spot, Sidewalk Jimbaran, with Gourmet Pepito and Cinepolis theaters for your movie fix.
Canggu, though? It’s more about those scattered souvenir stalls, little markets, boutique clothing joints, and decent supermarkets. No big malls with fancy international brands on deck, though.
If you’re on the hunt for awesome swimwear, activewear, surf stuff, or cute summer dresses while you’re on holiday, Canggu’s shops have you covered, and Jimbaran’s not even coming close to matching that lineup.
Canggu takes this one without breaking a sweat, there are way more shopping options and a much bigger mix of places to browse.
Where Will I Get The Best Food?
Canggu’s food game is straight-up wild. It’s got a crazy mix of hundreds of cafes, top-notch sports bars, coffee spots, fancy-pants restaurants, FINNS beach club with its 7 kitchens dishing out some of the island’s best grub, and a bunch of local joints, aka warungs, keeping it real.
Jimbaran? It’s got fewer places to chow down, but it’s easier on the wallet. Especially if you’re into Indonesian eats. You’re more likely to stumble upon a legit street stall here than in Canggu.
One thing Canggu’s missing, though, is a massive seafood market like Jimbaran’s. So, if you’re all about that fish life and love your seafood fresh, Jimbaran’s the spot to hit up early in the morning.
But as we said at the start, unless an unlimited seafood dinner is what matters during your stay in Bali, it might not be enough to swing the pendulum in favour of a holiday in Jimbaran.
Still, when it’s Canggu vs. Jimbaran, Canggu’s food scene takes the crown over Jimbaran – no contest.
Comparing Beaches
Jimbaran’s always had this fishing village vibe, living off the sea. It’s got some stunning white-sand beaches like Balangan Beach, chill waves at Jimbaran Bay, and even a hidden gem called Honeymoon Beach with rocky cliffs and epic sunsets.
Canggu, though? It’s all about those long, black, volcanic sand beaches packed with fancy hotels and beach clubs. FINNS is legitimately one of the best in the world.
You’ve got Berawa Beach, Echo Beach, and Batu Bolong Beach, and they’re perfect for kicking back with a cold one, strolling, jogging, or shredding some waves.
Water Sports Opportunities
Surfing in Jimbaran? Yeah, it’s doable, but it’s nowhere near Canggu’s level, and the water’s not always the cleanest either.
Jimbaran Beach is cool and all, but it’s not as pretty or well-kept as Canggu’s spots. Plus, those southern Bali sunsets in Canggu? Still, they are always some of the best around. So, Canggu takes this win!
And for newbie surfers? Canggu’s where it’s at with long breaks, cheap board rentals, tons of surf schools, and a chill international crowd. You can surf in Jimbaran too at Balangan and Jimbaran Beaches, but it’s not popping off like nearby Uluwatu (for the pros) or like it is in Canggu.
Jimbaran’s light on water sports, but it’s super close to Benoa, where you’ve got Bali Wake Park and Waterbom Water Park for some aquatic fun
Neither spot’s big on scuba diving, but Jimbaran’s closer to Bali’s East Coast, where the snorkeling and diving spots are straight-up stunning.
However, there’s no doubt that Canggu keeps its beach crown here. Jimbaran’s got stuff to do around the beaches, but not so much on its beaches; you won’t be bored, though!
Which Is The Prettiest Place?
Canggu’s got those jaw-dropping rice fields (for now), luxe spas, and villas with turquoise pools that basically scream “fancy.”
Plus, it’s loaded with aesthetic cafes, shops, and social clubs that are total Instagram bait; it’s all super stylish and vibey. You’ll even spot classic Balinese temples chilling next to slick modern buildings.
Jimbaran’s got a killer sunset view with all those fishing boats dotting the horizon, no doubt, but the residential spots and streets? They just don’t have that Canggu flair, and they’re much less of a magnet for the fashion crowd and influencers.
It’s also way less walkable than Canggu’s main drags, and since Jimbaran’s perched on rocky ground, you’re not getting much greenery, and there are pretty much zero rice paddies to gawk at.
That said, Jimbaran’s boutique and luxury resorts? They’re done up with serious taste, so you can find pools and gardens so pristine that they could hang with the best of Canggu and Seminyak. But if you’re not crashing at one of these places, Jimbaran might not feel all that cute or charming.
So, Canggu sneaks ahead in this round, though not by a landslide or anything, because both spots have their pretty corners, but Cangu has got the edge.
Where Will I Have The Most Things To Do?
Canggu’s got way more going on than Jimbaran, no question.
In Canggu, you can kick it at FINNS beach club, treat yourself to a spa day, play some games, belt out karaoke, hit up creative workshops, take a cooking class, check out an art gallery, swing by Tanah Lot Temple, or catch some waves. Seriously, the options just don’t quit!
Jimbaran Bay is your go-to for a fresh seafood feast at the market, chilling on the beach, or swinging some golf clubs. It’s not like there’s nothing around Jimbaran.
You can also zip over to Kuta for a perfume or crafty class, cruise down to Uluwatu for beach hopping or a delicious breakfast or dinner, or even shoot off on a day trip to Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, or the Gili islands and Jimbaran’s closer to the ports than Canggu, so that’s a perk.
Still, Canggu takes this one easy-peasy, and even the towns around Canggu have more to dish out for visitors than Jimbaran.
Which Area Do The Expats Prefer?
Old-school expats who’ve been around the block might vibe more with Jimbaran, and it’s closer to the airport for quick getaways, near the immigration office for sorting out permits, and not far from big malls, hardware stores, movie theaters, and cheap places to live. All that stuff adds up to a solid, chill daily routine.
Younger expats – say, those who’ve been in Bali less than two years – might still be all about Canggu. It’s got those slick modern cafes, a wild mix of people, and tons of fun stuff to do.
But that constant “everyone’s just passing through” energy? It can wear you out and make it tricky to lock down real friends or think about settling down with a fam.
It’s all down to what you’re into, but we reckon younger expats will dig Canggu’s buzz, while Jimbaran’s more the spot for the introverted or older crew who’ve seen it all. So, yeah, let’s call this a draw with no clear winner here!
Which Area Is Most Popular With Digital Nomads?
Canggu’s hands down the go-to spot for digital nomads, and it has a way better setup with killer internet, solid living vibes, and everything solopreneurs and creators could want. Jimbaran doesn’t even come close.
In Canggu, you can just snag a room in a coliving spot that hooks you up with a coworking space, which is perfect for linking up with cool, like-minded peeps and making buddies. In Jimbaran? You might feel a little stuck out on your own.
Hanging out and meeting people is a breeze in Canggu too, no matter whether you’re chilling at a bar, hitting up an event, or jumping into a random dinner with strangers your coliving sets up.
There’s no competition here. Canggu’s the champ for digital nomads, no question.
Canggu Vs Jimbaran – Which Town Comes Out On Top?
Alright, when it comes to the best spot to live as an expat, Jimbaran and Canggu are neck and neck.
But… Canggu’s snagging the wins for accommodation, beaches, shopping, watersports, nightlife, food, vibes, and being the ultimate digital nomad hangout in Bali.
So, yeah, Canggu’s flexing hard here, and it takes the winner’s title in our showdown pretty darn easily.
FAQs
Is Jimbaran A Nice Part Of Bali?
Yes, Jimbaran’s a sweet spot in Bali for sure! It’s got this chill, laid-back vibe that’s perfect if you’re into a quieter scene.
You’ve got stunning white-sand beaches like Balangan, calm waters at Jimbaran Bay, and secret gems like Honeymoon Beach, with amazing cliffs and killer sunsets. Plus, it’s famous for its seafood.
Is Ubud Or Canggu Better For Shopping?
Canggu is our top pick for shopping destinations over Ubud, but you won’t be bored if you want to shop in either town. Canggu is for fashion, Ubud more for local arts and crafts.
Is Jimbaran Beach Clean?
Jimbaran Beach can be a bit hit-or-miss when it comes to cleanliness.
It’s got that gorgeous white sand and chill bay vibe going for it, but the water’s not always the cleanest, and sometimes you’ll catch some trash or murkiness, especially after rain or on busy tourist days.
The locals and resorts do their best to keep it tidy, but it’s not pristine like some of those postcard-perfect spots.
Compared to Canggu’s black sand beaches, which tend to look sharper and get more upkeep from the beach clubs, Jimbaran’s a little rougher around the edges.
Is It Better To Stay In Kuta Or Canggu?
Kuta’s the OG tourist hub. So, think bustling streets, cheap eats, big malls, and a wild nightlife that’s been pulling party animals forever. The beach is solid with yellow sand, good for beginner surfers, but it’s crowded, and the whole area’s got this hectic, in-your-face energy.
It’s super close to the airport, too, so it’s a no-brainer if you want convenience and don’t mind the chaos.
Canggu, though? It’s the cooler, trendier cousin. You’ve got those epic black sand beaches, a chill surf scene (Echo Beach is a fave), and a laid-back feel with chilled cafes, coworking spots, and FINNS beach club.
The nightlife’s banging too. It’s more spread out, walkable near the beach, and packed with nomads and expats, but it’s farther from the airport and pricier than Kuta.
Overall, we’d pick Canggu unless you’re on a very tight budget.
Final Thoughts On Canggu Or Jimbaran
So, there we have it: while Jimbaran’s a lovely place to stay, there’s no doubt that Canggu is the most popular part of the island for good reason,s and it has a lot more to offer (excluding seafood dinners) than Jimbaran does.
The good news is that you can stay in Canggu and still easily visit Jimbaran as it’s only a short drive away from Canggu.