Despite persistent traffic problems and unresolved infrastructure issues, the allure of Canggu in Bali continues to capture the hearts of international travelers. Tucked in North Kuta, Badung, this trendy coastal enclave maintains a solid grip on Bali’s tourism spotlight, with villa occupancy rates consistently reaching between 70 and 75 percent.
“Canggu is still the benchmark for tourist interest in Badung. Along with Seminyak and Pecatu, it sees high occupancy, especially from international visitors,” said Putu Gede Hendrawan, Chairman of the Bali Villa Association (BVA), as quoted by detikbali.
The rise of Canggu as a favored destination isn’t without reason. Hendrawan noted that the area continues to grow with new attractions and facilities, adding to its popularity. Surprisingly, even heavy traffic in the area hasn’t discouraged tourists.
“Tourists don’t seem to care about traffic issues. In fact, they enjoy staying longer in Canggu because it’s trendy and offers a unique experience,” Hendrawan explained, adding that tourists now prefer longer, more immersive stays rather than rushing from one spot to another.
A shift in visitor patterns is also reshaping Bali’s tourism map. According to Hendrawan, travelers are increasingly moving away from older hotspots like Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak, in favor of northern districts such as Kerobokan and, most notably, Canggu.
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“In Canggu, most visitors stay four to six days, longer than the two to three nights typical in other areas,” he added. “Many couples come, as well as families and small groups. Usually, they spend at least four days here, with one day set aside for the trip back to the airport.”
As the summer holidays and school breaks approach, villa operators are gearing up for another wave of arrivals. Hendrawan predicts a spike in occupancy from July through September, led predominantly by overseas tourists.
“Bali’s main markets are still Australia, followed by India and several other Asian countries. Based on past trends, occupancy during the holiday season can reach up to 80 percent,” he said.
With the steady flow of tourists and Canggu’s ever-growing appeal, Bali continues to stand tall as a global vacation magnet—despite its logistical headaches.
