Exploring further up the coast of the island, I have arrived at another diverse area of coastline. Always happiest with my toes in the sand, I was interested to see what this location offered. I found the beautiful black sand beaches at Canggu Bali to be full of life.
Canggu Beach
At the town is the flagship beach area. When I first arrived it was not what I expected at all. Coming from Seminyak, I imagined the beaches to be very similar, for it is not that far away. What I found was a very narrow sandy strip and at high tide, down right no sand at all.
There are large volcanic rock formations that jut out into the sea here. Depending on the time of day, it may be completely impassable by foot down at the waters edge. There is a path up on top of the stone wall however, so you can traverse, just not on the beach.
Either side of this rocky area is a narrow strip of sand. Somewhat coarser than Seminyak, but still soft enough to walk barefoot.
This is a fantastic spot for beginner surfers, and no shortage of schools around to offer you a lesson. The beach clubs are either huge and bougie, some even requiring reservations they are so busy. Or tiny and humble with only a few chairs out on the sand.
Pererenan Beach
If you are facing the water and turn to walk up the beach to your right, you will come across the next beach which is Pererenan. Here visitors will find a large new statue, half fish half elephant. It looks magnificent on the landscape. I was lucky to find a ceremony happening one day that I arrived and was delighted to watch from afar.
The sand here is black, beautiful against the bright blue water. The water can be rough, so surfers will love this spot. There are virtually no beach clubs or bars, no where to rent a sunbed that I found. The beach is quite raw and natural with the exception of the new signage and statue.
Berawa Beach
Facing the water at Canggu again, now turning to your left and walking a ways, will bring you to Berawa Beach. The sand is a little lighter here but I would still consider it black. There are many streams that enter the water, one of which is very large.
This is the beach for dog watching. 🐕🐶 Have fun being bombarded by all the cute pups that run amok on this stretch of sand. They are so entertaining to watch.
Part of this beach has a space up top with thick vegetation. This area is where you will find the fishermen, their boats and storage huts. Most of the boats have now been replaced by new fibreglass models, but a few old wooden ones remain.
I was drawn up to this area initially by the graffiti which is very different than the art in town. Much more rustic and really cute.
This beach area at Canggu is unique and lively. With the beach itself being so narrow, there is not a whole lot of room for people to space themselves. Come early to see a more nature look, as later in the day, its packed with tourists. The town of Canggu is changing so quickly because of the tourist dollar, I hope the beach at least retains some semblance of original beauty.
