Candi Dasa Temple

Candi Dasa is a coastal town and seaside resort on the eastern shore of Bali, Indonesia, in Karangasem regency. It is known for its sheltered bay, coral-fringed coastline and as a base for snorkeling, diving and boat excursions.

The shoreline features a series of small beaches and rocky headlands with nearby reef areas that support marine tourism activities. Accommodation and visitor services are concentrated along the main coastal road, making it a modest tourism hub for eastern Bali.

Historically the area developed as a fishing village and later expanded with tourism infrastructure in the late 20th century as Bali’s visitor economy grew. The town retains small-scale local commerce alongside guesthouses and dive operators.

Candi Dasa sits on Bali’s eastern coast, roughly between the port of Padangbai to the west and the town of Amlapura to the northeast, facing the Lombok Strait and nearby reef systems.

• Marine recreation: Serves as a quieter alternative to Bali’s busier southern beaches, with snorkeling and dive sites on nearby reefs.

This former fishing village retains a somewhat sleepy feel, which for many is part of the appeal. Sun-worshippers can choose between the laid-back Labuhan Amuk Bay and the more upmarket Balina Beach. When it comes to eating, Candi Dasa’s restaurants are considered by many to be among the best in the region, with plenty of fresh fish on offer.

When it is time to move on, many travellers head to Lombok and the small islands off Bali’s coast via Padangbai, a ferry port at the western end of Labuhan Amuk Bay. There are several pretty islands to explore, a good way to spend a few hours before returning to Candi Dasa.

Candi Dasa is about 1.5-2 hours’ drive from Denpasar’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, depending on traffic. Access is via the main coastal road (Jl. Raya Candidasa) and local minibuses (bemos) serve the route; private transfers or taxis are the easiest option for visitors with luggage.

• Beaches: Candi Dasa’s beaches are smaller and quieter than those of the south. Erosion has taken its toll, but several hotels have created sandy areas, and nearby Pasir Putih (White Sand Beach) offers clear water and a more traditional beach experience.
• Diving and snorkelling: Candi Dasa is a gateway to some of Bali’s best underwater sites. A short boat ride away lie Blue Lagoon and Padangbai, with vibrant reefs, turtles and reef sharks, while the more adventurous can explore the current-swept dive sites of Gili Tepekong and Mimpang, which draw larger pelagic species.
• Temples: Pura Candidasa sits on a hillside overlooking the lagoon and is an important temple for locals. Nearby Goa Lawah (Bat Cave Temple) is one of Bali’s oldest and most sacred sites, its cave home to thousands of bats.
• Trekking and villages: The lush countryside offers walks through rice terraces, valleys and hills. Tenganan is an ancient Bali Aga village known for its customs and double-ikat weaving.
• Day trips: Candi Dasa makes an ideal base for eastern Bali. The Tirta Gangga water palace, with its gardens and tiered fountains, is a 30-minute drive away, and Pura Lempuyang, with its famous “Gates of Heaven” viewpoint, frames Mount Agung on clear days.

The best time for the water is Bali’s dry season, from April to October, when conditions for diving and snorkelling are at their best. The wet season (November to March) brings showers but fewer crowds.

Candi Dasa has a range of accommodation, from budget guesthouses and homestays to mid-range hotels and upscale beachfront resorts, many with oceanfront views, private beach areas and easy access to diving.

Dining is casual and varied, from local warungs to beachfront restaurants and international kitchens. Local favourites include Warung Padang Kecag for traditional Balinese dishes and Lezat Beach Restaurant for fresh seafood and Western fare. Several restaurants also run Balinese cooking classes for those keen to learn traditional recipes and techniques.

• Expect strong currents and check local tide tables before booking snorkeling trips - many spots are only safe at slack tide.
• Stay in the village early or late to avoid the midday sun; numerous small warungs (local eateries) serve fresh fish and grilled corn.
• Hire a local boat from Padang or Kusamba for the shorter trip and the quickest beach access.