Candidasa Beach is located on the eastern coast of Bali, in the Karangasem Regency, about 2 to 2.5 hours from Denpasar or Ngurah Rai International Airport by car. It lies roughly 12 km east of Padangbai, and around 40 km from the popular town of Ubud.
The drive to this place offers scenic views of Bali’s countryside, with glimpses of rice terraces, small villages, and Mount Agung in the distance. Once you arrive, you’ll find a stretch of coastal road lined with boutique hotels, guesthouses, dive shops, and cafes.
Surrounded by fresh seafood stalls and close to tourist attractions such as Taman Ujung, this beach is worth a Bali Tour list for those who want to explore another side of the Island of the Gods.
What Makes Candidasa Beach Special?
Candidasa Beach isn’t your typical white-sand beach destination. Instead, it’s known for:
- Peaceful vibes and fewer crowds
- Black volcanic sand beaches and stone jetties
- Excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities
- Traditional Balinese culture and temples
- Sunrises over the Lombok Strait
- Proximity to top dive sites like Blue Lagoon and Amed
Unlike the surfing beaches of the south, this place offers a more relaxed seaside experience, making it ideal for couples, mature travelers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for quiet beauty and cultural depth.
The Beach and Coastline
The beach area itself is unique. Much of the original sandy shoreline has been affected by erosion over the years, but the local community has constructed breakwaters and jetties to preserve the coastline. These structures have created small inlets of water and sandy patches where visitors can swim or relax.
The sand in Candidasa Beach is darker due to its volcanic origin, and while not powdery white, it still has its own raw charm. The sea is mostly calm, especially in the morning, and the water is clean and refreshing.
During low tide, you can walk along parts of the rocky shore and explore tide pools. During high tide, the jetties offer peaceful spots to sit and watch the waves roll in.
Best Activities to Do in Candidasa Beach
Snorkeling and Diving
Candidasa Beach is one of the top jump-off points for scuba diving and snorkeling in East Bali. The nearby islands and coral reefs are home to colorful fish, turtles, reef sharks, and sometimes even mola-mola (sunfish) during the right season.
Top snorkeling/diving sites near this place include:
- Blue Lagoon (Padangbai)
- Gili Tepekong
- Gili Biaha
- Gili Mimpang
- Amed and Tulamben (about 1 hour away)
Local dive shops in this place offer PADI certification courses, dive packages, and snorkeling trips for all skill levels.
Sunrise Watching
This place faces east, which means it’s a prime spot for sunrise photography and meditation. The rising sun casts a golden glow over the water, with the silhouette of Nusa Penida or Lombok’s mountains on the horizon. Early risers will be rewarded with one of the most serene sunrise views in Bali.
Fishing and Boating Trips
Traditional jukung boats line the shore and are often used for fishing or taking tourists out to sea. You can hire a local fisherman to:
- Go fishing at sunrise
- Visit nearby snorkeling reefs
- Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise
The experience is authentic and supports the local economy.
Explore Nearby Attractions
This place is conveniently located near several cultural and natural attractions, including:
- Tenganan Village – a Bali Aga (ancient Balinese) village known for its traditions and woven fabrics
- Tirta Gangga Water Palace – a serene royal water garden
- Taman Ujung – a beautiful palace with pools and mountain views
- Virgin Beach (Pantai Pasir Putih) – a hidden white-sand beach perfect for swimming
Accommodation Options in Candidasa Beach
One of the strengths of this place is its range of accommodation to suit all budgets. From beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses, you’ll find peaceful stays that emphasize privacy, ocean views, and Balinese hospitality.
Recommended Stays:
- Candi Beach Resort & Spa – Upscale resort with private beach access and elegant villas
- Rama Candidasa Resort & Spa – Mid-range beachfront resort with a pool and dive center
- D’Tunjung Resort – Affordable option with ocean-facing bungalows and a traditional feel
- Bali Palms Resort – Great for families and long-stay travelers
Most accommodations offer easy beach access, sunrise views, and quiet evenings ideal for those looking to disconnect.
Where to Eat in Candidasa Beach
This place has a growing food scene that caters to international tastes while still offering local Balinese dishes. Many restaurants overlook the ocean, giving you a scenic dining experience.
Top eateries include:
- La Rouge Restaurant – Western and Indonesian fusion, live music at night
- Vincent’s – Upscale fine dining with a romantic atmosphere
- Warung Bintang – Local warung with friendly prices and fresh seafood
- Lezat Beach Restaurant – Beachfront dining with sunset cocktails
- Crazy Kangaroo – Good for Western dishes and socializing
Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available, and seafood is particularly fresh in this coastal village.
Wellness and Yoga
This place is also becoming known for its wellness retreats and yoga escapes. The quiet atmosphere makes it an ideal location for:
- Private yoga classes
- Meditation sessions by the sea
- Balinese massage and spa treatments
Many hotels offer on-site spas, and some even have full retreat programs that combine yoga, detox meals, and cultural immersion.
Shopping and Souvenirs
This place is not a shopping hub like Seminyak or Ubud, but it has a few small shops and local stalls selling:
- Handmade sarongs and batik
- Silver jewelry
- Wooden crafts
- Traditional ikat textiles from Tenganan Village
For more variety, you can take a short trip to Amlapura Market for a more authentic, local shopping experience.
Local Culture and Ceremonies
One of the highlights of visiting this place is its authentic Balinese culture. The area has several sea temples, including the Pura Candidasa temple, which is dedicated to fertility and the sea goddess.
You may witness ceremonial processions, particularly during the Odalan (temple anniversary) or Galungan and Kuningan festivals. Locals dress in traditional clothing and carry offerings along the road or to the beach.
These spiritual moments add depth to the visitor experience and remind you that in this place, life and nature are deeply intertwined.
Candidasa Beach – East Bali’s Calm Coastal Treasure
Candidasa Beach is more than just a place it’s a state of mind. With its gentle waves, traditional temples, and welcoming locals, this eastern seaside town invites travelers to pause, breathe, and enjoy Bali in its purest form.
Whether you’re diving into coral gardens, sipping coffee as the sun rises, or exploring nearby palaces and villages, every moment in this place feels intentional and enriching.
