How To Get From Uluwatu To Canggu: Your Complete Guide

Confused about how to get from Uluwatu to Canggu? You’re not alone!
Between Instagram reels, blog comments, and local advice, it feels like everyone has a different answer and some of them are downright wrong.

When I first moved to Bali, I tried just about every option: the boat, the scooter (in the rain – never again), even a long Grab ride at rush hour.

That’s why I’ve put together this no-fluff guide: the real ways to get from Uluwatu to Canggu, with honest pros, cons, and how to book each one—whether you’re carrying a surfboard, travelling solo, or just want to avoid the infamous Bali traffic.

I’ll share exactly what’s worked for me (and what I’ll never do again), with tips to help you choose the best method for your trip—plus links to book trusted services I personally use.

Let’s get you from Uluwatu to Canggu!

1. By Boat: Quick But You Get Drenched!

PRO: This is the fastest option!

CONS: You get really wet and if the water is rough boat might get cancelled (more likely to happen during the rainy season)

You guys, you’re going to get soaked on this boat! GoBoat boats are really fast but it’s a wild option. The boat is small and depending on weather conditions, they might cancel the journey as well.

In this case, they would give you a voucher to use next time (not ideal if you only need it once).

Remember to put your belongings in a waterproof bag and possibly take a seasick pill if you get normally get motion-sick.

If you’re a surfer, you’ll be glad to know you can bring your surfboard along, just select the ticket including the surfboard when booking online!

Where to find it: Head to Padang Padang Beach. You might have to pay a small fee, but it’s a few cents. Go down the stairs and turn right. You will see the GoBoat stand.

Pricing and Timing: The boat ride takes 30-45 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Pricing starts from IDR 245,000 per person ($15), making it the fastest yet unique option.

How to Book: Visit 12Go and reserve the GoBoat option or head to their stand on the beach to make your reservation.

The 12Go website is very intuitive and easy to use so you could just reserve your spot from the comfort of your villa!

👉 Check Latest Prices On 12Go Website

2. Rent a Scooter

PRO: Fully independent and you have your own transport in Canggu as well

CONS: Obviously not ideal during the rainy season or if you have luggage

Renting a scooter is another good option; this way you will also be independent once you’re in Canggu and beyond.

If you are looking for a place to rent your scooter, check out BikAgo. It’s easy to use and it’s convenient. I would recommend getting an N Max scooter because it’s comfortable and steady! Prices start from IDR 150k per day (around $10).

Where to find it: Reserve your scooter online, and you can get it delivered to your villa and picked up when you don’t need it anymore!

Pricing and timing: Prices start from IDR 150k per day (around $10), depending on which kind of scooter you go for. Timings-wise, it will take you between 1,5 and 2 hours.

👉 Check Out Scooter Rental Prices On BikAgo

3. Get A Private Driver

PRO: Great during rainy season or when it’s too hot or when you have luggage! This is my favourite way to get from Uluwatu to Canggu – always!

CONS: It could take a while if you are travelling during rush hour!

If you are carrying luggage or just want to sit down relaxed with AC, trust me when I say you need a private driver! That’s my go-to option. I don’t think about it too much, I just book one!

It’s affordable, reliable and a no-brainer. I normally book mine via Klook, it’s a trustworthy platform here in Bali and I get to see the reviews from previous travellers too!

How to Book: Follow this link on Klook and choose how many hours you would like the driver for.

This is a great option, especially if you want him to drive you around Canggu, take you back to Uluwatu or explore nearby places by car.

Pricing and Timing: It really depends on traffic but it could take about 2 hours to get to Canggu. I normally go really early in the morning to avoid the rush hour! Prices start from IDR 370k ($23).

👉 Book Your Driver Now!

4. Get A Grab: Convenient and Comfortable

PRO: It’s quite affordable and you can book it last minute.

CONS: Grab drivers don’t stop on the way! So if you want to make a few stops for sightseeing or stretch your leg – it’s a solid NO. That’s why I go for the private driver instead!

Grab, Southeast Asia’s popular ride-hailing app, operates extensively in Bali and provides reliable transportation. It’s the equivalent of “Uber” that we all know in the West!

You can call a Grab scooter or a car.

How to Book: Download the Grab app, set your pick-up location in Uluwatu and destination in Canggu, and choose a suitable vehicle.

Pricing and Timing: The journey from Uluwatu to Canggu by car takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around IDR 200,000 – 300,000 (between $13 and $20).

The scooter option would be a bit cheaper, but it’s a pretty long way if someone else is driving!

Useful tip: Make sure to leave early in the morning or late in the evening (after sunset) to beat traffic. Playing smart with timelines could make a lot of difference.

Things to Do and See Along the Way

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the journey between Uluwatu and Canggu offers plenty of opportunities to explore Bali’s beauty and culture.

Here are some recommended stops:

Padang Padang Beach

If you rented the scooter or booked a driver for your trip to Canggu, make sure to stop at Padang Padang Beach first. This is also where the boat starts so you can visit this beautiful beach no matter what you choose.

Located a short distance from Uluwatu, this beach is famous for its surf breaks and stunning rock formations. It’s a perfect spot for a quick swim or sunbathing session.

Close by there is a delicious cafe on the main road where you can get the most delicious smoothie bowl. It’s called Bali Blue Coffee & Gelato.

The great thing about this place is that they wash fruit with filtered water so it’s very unlikely you will get food poisoning (also locally called Bali belly).

Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

If you are riding your scooter, stop by to see the massive statue of Lord Vishnu riding the mythical bird Garuda. The statue is part of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park which also features regular local performances and panoramic views.

You can see the park in a few hours if you want to explore it or you will surely see it on the way to Canggu, you can’t miss it! The statue is absolutely huge! The same goes if you are taking a taxi.

👉 Skip the line by booking your ticket here!

Echo Beach

Once you reach Canggu, unwind at Echo Beach, which is famous for its sunset views and vibrant dining scene.

Whether you’re up for surfing or simply relaxing, this beach has it all.

Suggested Accommodations In Uluwatu And Canggu

If you haven’t booked your place to stay in Uluwatu or Canggu yet, I have a few recommendations!

FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions

So, What’s The Best Way To Get To Canggu?

Out of all the options, I highly recommend getting a driver to Canggu. Although the journey may take a little longer compared to a boat, it ensures a comfortable and dry trip.

Opt for the scooter rental if you know how to ride it with confidence and will need to move around Canggu independently later on.

Ciao for now,

Silvia x