Apart from Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran and Nusa Dua, Bali got something else on the southern east of the island: Candidasa.
It takes about 80 minutes drive from the Ngurah Rai Airport, or is roughly 65 kms long. The access to this jewel is comfortable in the help of Toll road and Bypass that cover about 90% of the whole journey.
Long time ago, back in 12th century, before the term Candidasa is adopted, this fishing village were found as Teluk Kehen (Bay of fire) and Cilidasa. Cilidasa (ten children) itself is inspired by the temple near the lagoon with fertility goddess surrounded by ten children.
Many people who wish to have children will pray here. Over time, cilidasa changed into Candidasa.
Villagers' way of life?
Fishing is still the main way of life to villagers with slight adjustment. Between 1970 and 1980 tourism is booming in this area. Investor claimed their cake in the kilometer-ling-costal area. They started to build accommodations from, from guesthouse to considerable luxury stay. Tourism sectors discovered the sea around the area got beautiful underwater destination. Since then, there are many dive centers offering their services to tourists. This beauty has leverage its reputation as underwater paradise. More hotels and dive centers would mean they need more squad take care of the guests. Youngsters to stop helping their parents with fishing and farming, but rather work in the hospitality industry instead.
Bali, in general, is getting famous and more hotels were introduced in key areas such as Kuta, Nusa Dua, Legian, Seminyak and Jimbaran. Not only Candidasa villagers but also villagers from other districts all over Bali were flocking there for the jobs.
Although Tourism is booming in Bali, Candidasa remains calm; its visitors is not as high as the south part of Bali does. With only small opportunity the hospitality could offer, the older generations are still doing their ancient way of life: fishing and farming.
What is the surrounding looks like?
In the main area of the Candidasa you can consider visiting its famous huge Lotus Fond. Of course, its beach is on the top list even though series of erosion have degrade its beauty. Yoga asrahm, located next to the Lotus Pond, remains open till today. There are many restaurants, Cafe, laundry, spa and accommodations along the Candidasa street, on both sides.
If you wish to swim in the beautiful white sandy beaches you got to drive about 15 minutes to Virgin Beach. This beaches are managed by Bugbug village authority (BP2DAB) that they pack it with other attractions at the Bukit Asah such as camping, trekking, sunset cruise and fishing tours. They also developed the other hill, Gumang Hill, that lies between the Bukit Asah and Candidasa. It's gate is phenomenal and takes another 3 km walk to the temple where they will perform Kecak dance, with stunning ocean view<>