Bali is a hotspot for digital nomads, but the big question remains: Is Canggu or Ubud the better place to work remotely and live well? While both towns offer unique experiences, they cater to different personalities, work styles, and lifestyle goals.
Whether you thrive in a high-energy beach town or prefer a slower, wellness-oriented life in the jungle, this guide helps you decide where to set up your Bali base.
Also read: Is Bali Good for Digital Nomads? A Guide to Remote Work in Paradise
Canggu: Bali’s Social & Surf-Fueled Digital Nomad Capital
Vibe: High energy, social, fast-paced.
Ideal For: Networkers, beach lovers, extroverts, startup culture types.
Canggu has become synonymous with the modern digital nomad lifestyle. With surf-friendly beaches, sleek coworking cafes, fitness hubs, and non-stop nightlife, Canggu feels more like a creative city with waves than a laid-back island town. You’ll find vibrant communities of remote workers hosting pitch nights, casual meetups, and DJ sets after work hours.
What Digital Nomads Love in Canggu:
- Coworking & Cafés: From chic cafes to high-end coworking spaces like Outpost and Dojo, the infrastructure here is world-class for remote work.
- Beaches: Echo Beach and Batu Bolong are just minutes away for a morning surf session or sunset break.
- Social Calendar: Expect networking mixers, beach cleanups, and creative workshops weekly.
- Fitness Culture: Premium gyms and recovery centers like Wanderlust and The Practice keep you sharp.
Challenges in Canggu:
- Traffic congestion is intense, especially during rush hours. A scooter is almost a necessity.
- Overcrowding makes high season overwhelming for those craving peace and focus.
- Cost: Accommodation and dining tend to be pricier than Ubud, especially near hotspots like Berawa and Batu Bolong.
Also read: Is It Legal to Be a Digital Nomad in Bali?
Ubud: A Nature-Lover’s Retreat for the Mindful Digital Nomad
Vibe: Tranquil, introspective, nature-infused.
Ideal For: Wellness seekers, creatives, introverts, slow travelers.
Ubud sits in the heart of Bali, surrounded by rice terraces, temples, and jungle sanctuaries. It’s a haven for remote workers who prioritize inner balance, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. The energy here is calm, making it easier to focus, reflect, and recharge.
Why Digital Nomads Choose Ubud:
- Nature & Culture: Daily life unfolds amidst sacred temples, lush rice fields, and traditional ceremonies.
- Walkability: Central Ubud is compact and easily walkable — no scooter required for many.
- Affordability: Accommodations often include breakfast and cleaning, making the cost of living noticeably lower.
- Wellness & Spirituality: Think yoga at The Yoga Barn, sound healing sessions, and art classes in serene settings.
- Co-working: Top-tier spaces like Hubud and Outpost Ubud provide strong Wi-Fi and a peaceful work environment.
Challenges in Ubud:
- No beaches: Ubud is inland, so if you crave ocean access, this may feel limiting.
- Smaller cafes: While cozy, many spots aren’t as spacious or design-centric as those in Canggu.
- Internet & service inconsistency still occurs across Bali, but Ubud’s top coworking spaces generally offer reliable Wi-Fi.
Also read: How Long Can Digital Nomads Stay in Bali? (+Consequences of Overstaying Your Visa)
Side-by-Side Comparison: Canggu vs. Ubud
| Feature | Canggu | Ubud |
|---|---|---|
| Community | Social & entrepreneurial | Mindful & creative |
| Wi-Fi Quality | Generally strong at coworking spaces | Reliable at top locations |
| Walkability | Limited (scooters preferred) | High in central areas |
| Nature | Beaches, surf, sunsets | Jungle, waterfalls, rice fields |
| Events | Parties, networking, surf meetups | Yoga, healing, cultural tours |
| Cost of Living | Higher | Lower |
| Accommodation | Stylish but pricey | Affordable with local charm |
| Noise & Crowds | Busy and energetic | Quiet and peaceful |
Also read: Where Is the Best Place to Live for Digital Nomads in Bali?
Final Verdict: Which Is Better for You?
- Choose Canggu if: You thrive in a fast-paced, social atmosphere and love being close to the ocean with access to buzzing events and modern amenities.
- Choose Ubud if: You value peace, nature, and personal growth, and you prefer a slower rhythm of life that supports mindfulness and creativity.
Ultimately, the best place depends on your remote work goals, lifestyle preferences, and how you define “living well” as a digital nomad in Bali.
If you’re serious about working remotely in paradise, make sure you secure the proper documents, follow immigration law, and avoid anything that could jeopardize your stay.
For hassle-free legal registration, you can rely on InvestinAsia’s Indonesia Remote work E33G Visa/KITAS Application Service.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the internet reliable for remote work in both places?
A: Top coworking spaces in both towns offer solid internet. However, outages do happen. Backup mobile data is recommended.
Q: Where can I network more easily?
A: Canggu wins here — it’s packed with digital nomads, startups, and frequent community events.
Q: Can I easily switch between Canggu and Ubud?
A: Yes. They’re about a 1.5–2 hour drive apart, so many nomads split their time between both.
Q: What’s the visa situation for digital nomads in Bali?
A: As of 2025, you’ll need a valid work or remote visa to legally work online in Bali. Consider a Remote Work Visa or consult a local legal agency for help.
