Candidasa, nestled on Bali’s tranquil east coast, is the perfect base for exploring some of the island’s most stunning and lesser-known attractions. Its location allows you to easily take day trips to discover the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and peaceful vibes of East Bali. Here’s a guide to some of the best day trips from Candidasa and some tips on how to get around.

1. Tirta Gangga Water Palace

A short 30-minute drive from Candidasa, Tirta Gangga is a former royal palace that is now a water garden that attracts tourists looking for culture and beautiful photos. Its landscaped gardens, ornate stone carvings, and tranquil pools are beautiful to walk around and enjoy at a slow pace.

Getting There: The easiest way to reach Tirta Gangga is by hiring a car with a driver, which we can arrange for you at Lotus Bungalows. Alternatively, if you’re comfortable navigating Bali’s roads, hiring a scooter is an option.

What to Expect: Beautifully landscaped gardens, lovely fountains, stepping stones, and koi ponds. Take a dip in the cool, spring-fed swimming pools and then enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants overlooking the water palace. Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.

2. Sidemen Valley

Just an hour’s drive from Candidasa, the Sidemen Valley is known for its terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and stunning views of Mount Agung. This area offers a glimpse into Bali’s rural life and is perfect for those who love nature and hiking.

Getting There: Hire a car with a driver for the day or rent a scooter. The drive is scenic but involves winding roads, so driving yourself might be challenging if you’re not experienced.

What to Expect: Spend the day trekking through the rice terraces, visiting local weaving workshops, and enjoying the panoramic views of the valley. You can also stop by the village of Selat for a taste of authentic Balinese life.

3. Amed

Amed is a fishing and salt producing village about 1.5 hours from Candidasa. It’s famous for its black sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a top destination for snorkeling, diving, and experiencing Bali’s underwater wonders.

Getting There: The most convenient way to reach Amed is by car, which allows you to explore at your own pace. If you prefer a more adventurous route, you can rent a scooter, but as a trucking route, it can be a bit intimidating if you aren’t used to Bali’s roads.

What to Expect: Spend your day snorkeling or diving at the Japanese Shipwreck or the coral gardens of Jemeluk Bay. If you’re more into relaxing, enjoy a leisurely day on the beach, watching local fishermen at work. Don’t miss the sunset from one of the cliffside cafes for a perfect end to your day.

4. Virgin Beach

Called White Sand Beach, Pasir Putih, Bug Bug Beach, or Virgin Beach, this is one of the most beautiful beaches to spend a day on in the whole of Bali. It’s only about 15 minutes from Candidasa and the drive down to the beach winds along the coast with gorgeous views.

Getting There: Because it’s close to Candidasa, a driver can be arranged to drop you off at the beach and pick you up later in the day. You can also easily rent a scooter and drive yourself.

What to Expect: Spend your day on a lounger in front of one of the beach warungs along a long stretch of white sand. Fresh seafood and local dishes are available and most warungs have toilets and showers to rinse off.

Transportation Tips

Car Rental with Driver: This is the most comfortable and stress-free option, especially if you plan to visit multiple destinations in one day. Many drivers also double as local guides, providing insights into the places you visit.

Scooter Rental: For solo travelers or couples comfortable with riding, scooters offer more freedom and are a cost-effective way to explore. Make sure to wear a helmet and drive carefully, as some roads can be steep and narrow.

Final Tips

When planning your day trips, start early to make the most of your time. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan on trekking or exploring outdoor areas.

Have you been to any of these East Bali attractions? If so, tell us which is your favorite in the comments below.