Why Honeymoon in Candidasa?
With its laid-back atmosphere, stunning green hills and blue ocean, and a range of spectacular beaches to explore, Candidasa offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. Hidden gems are waiting to be discovered by those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist hubs. White sand beaches, underwater beauty, water palaces, and temples are among the charming attractions that await you to create memorable experiences with your loved one.
Our favorite hotel for couples
The Alila Manggis is the best option for a honeymoon near Candidasa. The 4-star oceanfront hotel, operated by Hyatt, is located outside of town surrounded by lush forest and nature. It features a large pool overlooking the gardens, waving palm trees and ocean. The Alila provides a free shuttle to the town of Candidasa, so no need to arrange taxis all the time. We like that it is not a massive resort, by the end of the stay most of the staff will know you!
Compared to resorts in South Bali, the Alila Manggis is surprisingly affordable for the luxury on offer. We have seen rooms offered for less than 150 USD per night. Check current prices here.
A tale of fertility…
Candidasa is a popular destination for local Balinese couples, for a reason that might surprise you! There is a Balinese myth which claims that visiting the Hindu temple next to the lagoon in Candidasa brings fertility to couples. It has become a destination for pilgrimage amongst local couples, as it features a statue of fertility goddess Hariti surrounded by her 10 children.
In the ancient Balinese tale, the goddess Hariti yearned for a family but faced infertility. Moved by a couple’s prayer for a child, her tears transformed into rain, blessing them with fertility. Witnessing their joy, Hariti herself became fertile, birthing ten children in her first pregnancy. The temple where this miracle occurred came to be known as Candidas, combining “Candi” (temple) and “Dasa” (ten), drawing hopeful couples seeking fertility blessings through offerings.
Whether you believe this story or not, and whether you are planning to start a family or not, the lagoon area is a beautiful and quite a romantic spot to visit anyway. The water is covered by lotus flowers and is directly adjecent to the ocean.
Explore Candidasa
Candidasa is located against a hill on Bali’s eastern shores, overlooking the Lombok Strait, the sea that separates Bali and Lombok. On clear days, you will be able to see the Rinjani volcano all the way in Lombok. Around Candidasa you will find beautiful nature: green hills, waterfalls as well as spectacular white sand beaches that have not been discovered by most tourists yet. Virgin Beach, locally known as Pasir Putih which means white sand beach, is our absolute favorite.
Regarding waterfalls: the Jagasatru Waterfall is a hidden gem worth visiting. You’ll need a car ride up the hill, and from there it is a small hike down to the waterfall. You are asked to provide a small donation to the local community for visiting. There is a small shrine with a holy water fountain in the area as well. Balinese people bath under these fountains as part of their praying ceremonies, and they allow visitors to try it out too. Near the waterfall there are small coffee stalls from where you will have great views over the surrounding hills and ocean.
If beaches and waterfalls aren’t enough reason to stay in Candidasa, fortunately there is culture and history to discover too! Candidasa is part of the Karangasem region of Bali, known for its ancient water palaces and temples, dating back to the times of local kingdoms. The most famous one is Tirta Gangga, which is less than half an hour drive north of the town.
Great Hotels for Couples in Candidasa
Below are our suggestions for places to stay in Candidasa. Most of them are beachfront and 4 stars. One benefit of the Candidasa area is that luxury hotels are quite a bit more affordable than you would find in South Bali towns like Seminyak or Uluwatu.
Honeymoon Activities in Candidasa
Romantic Dining in Candidasa
Don’t expect fine dining in Candidasa. There are better places for Michelin-level tasting menus. However there are some decent romantic options, especially in some of the resorts around Candidasa. These are the ones we recommend:
How to get to Candidasa
Candidasa lies on the east coast of Bali, around 64 km from Ngurah Rai International Airport of Bali, which is located in the south part of the island. It takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours to get to Candidasa by car, depending on the traffic and tourist season.
Due to its distance, it is highly recommended to arrange transport with a driver before you arrive in Bali. At the airport, drivers will charge very high prices for long distance trips like these. Some hotels/resorts in Candidasa may also provide airport transfer and pickup at an additional charge.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Candidasa in Bali?
Candidasa is located on the east coast of Bali, 64 km from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali.
How to get around in Candidasa?
The best and most practical way to get around is by hiring a car with a private driver or arranging a taxi with your hotel. Taxi-hailing apps that might work in South Bali don't operate here.
How far is Candidasa from Bali Airport
It is 64 km to the east of Bali and takes around a 2-hour drive from the airport by car, depending on the tourist season which affects the traffic.
Is Candidasa a good honeymoon destination?
Definitely! Its location in the quieter part of Bali makes it a perfect romantic hideaway for couples celebrating their love away from the hustling bustling tourist traps of Bali. It also offers authenticity of the local life along the east coast of Bali.
How long should we stay in Candidasa?
3 days and 2 nights should be ample to explore and enjoy the slow life in Candidasa, but if you prefer a more chill and relaxed pace to enjoy the tranquility of the sea breeze, you can also aim for 4 days and 3 nights.
What activities can we do in Candidasa?
This spot offers varied activities ranging from cultural, and spiritual, to active ones. You can learn about the history of the water palaces and temples, experience bathing in the holy spring water pool that was once used by the royal family, see the underwater beauty by snorkeling around the coast, or simply lounging and sipping your favourite beverages by the beaches in and around Candidasa.
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Written by Olivia & Dirk
Hi! We have put together this guide with a lot of care, based on our own experiences. As a couple, we have lived in Bali for the past 5 years, and we fell in love with the island. We have visited every corner of Bali, especially the romantic places ;-). While our articles do contain affiliate links, you can trust us to recommend only the experiences that we love.
Read more about us or let us help you organize your honeymoon for you!