Cemagi, Bali
Cemagi is a small town located on the south western coast of Bali, Indonesia. It is known for its beautiful black sand beach, traditional villages, and rice fields. Cemagi is growing increasingly popular with travelers who are looking for a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the larger towns and cities in Bali.
- Where is Cemagi?
- What is Cemagi like?
- Things to do in Cemagi
- Cemagi Beach
- Cemagi Weather
- Is Cemagi the new Canggu?
Where is Cemagi?
Cemagi is located on the south west coast of Bali, just 20 mins drive to the north of Canggu and Pererenan and just south of Tanah Lot.
Getting to Cemagi from the airport
Cemagi is about a one-hour drive north of Ngurah Rai International Airport, but it can take longer depending on traffic.
The journey from the airport along Sunset Road and then up onto Raya Canggu can be gridlocked depending on the time of day. So bear that in mind when making plans, esepcially when planning to leave Cemagi and head back to the airport to catch your flight home.
With regards to transportation there is no real bus service between the airport and Cemagi so a taxi or private minibus is the only real option. Gojek is your best bet here and lets you easily book a ride without the hassle of having to haggle with taxi drivers.
If you are unable to download Gojek before your arrival then there are plenty of taxis waiting at arrivals - just make sure you agree a price upfront - it shouldn't cost any more than 400,000 IDR.
What is Cemagi like?
In a word - quiet! Very quiet. But that is the appeal for many people looking to escape the overcrowded neighbouring Canggu in search of a more authentic Balinese coastal location.
Cemagi is like stepping back in time 15 or 20 years; with sprawling green rice terraces, a quiet black sand beach and endless local shops, warungs, and villages. In contrast to Canggu which is a bustling hub of party goers, cafes, bars and restaurants (with prices to match).
Things to do in Cemagi
Although Cemagi is fairly quiet compared to some other places in Bali there is still plenty to do in this area. Tanah Lot is one of Bali's most iconic attractions and just a 15 minute drive away. The rocky cliff is home to Pura Tanah Lot, a small temple perched above the Indian Ocean. It's best to visit in the late afternoon to capture one of Bali's most breathtaking sunsets.
If it's nightlife you are after then Canggu is just a 20 min drive south and has a multitude of bars, restaurants and speakeasys.
Being just a 1 hour journey from Cemagi Ubud is also a popular destination with its famed Monkey Forest, sprawling rice terraces and laid back vibe.
Cemagi Beach
Cemagi boasts a black sand beach much like its southern neighbour Canggu. Bali is home to active volcanoes, and the black sands found in places like Cemagi, Canggu and Lovina are a result of regular volcanic activity across the island.
The beach is quiet compared to other beaches in this area and is an excellent spot for watching those famous Balinese sunsets.
Can you surf at Cemagi Beach?
Not really no. Or certainly not if you are an advanced surfer looking for something a little more challenging. Cemagi doesn't have the swells and waves that nearby Seminyak, Canggu and northern Kendungu do as the water here is much shallower and calm. That being said though, some of the most popular surf spots in Bali are literally just 10 mins or so down the coast. So Cemagi is still an excellent base from which to hit those surf spots should you wish.
Cemagi Weather
Like anywhere in Bali Cemagi is blessed with a tropical warm climate all year round. Temperatures only really fluctuate by a few degrees throughout the year; ranging from around 26 degrees to mid 30 degree celsius. This makes Cemagi (and Bali as a whole) a perfect sunny destination all year round.
The rainy season in Cemagi runs from around September through to February but don't be mislead by the name. Even during rainy season there are long hot sunny days with most showers happening for an hour or two in the late afternoon or evening.
Monthly Temperatures
Is Cemagi the new Canggu?
Maybe. But not quite yet. There is undoubtedly a lot of development going on with villas being built on almost every street. Every week we also hear of new restaurants and bars either under construction or looking into the options of opening a place in Cemagi. Given the location and similarities to Canggu it's no surprise. Property and land in the area is still significantly cheaper than its more developed neighbour. But for how long?
As more travelers become aware of the beauty and charm of Cemagi, the town will undoubtedly become more popular and attract more visitors. This will lead to the development of even more tourist facilities and amenities, making it an even more attractive destination for travelers. And so the cycle continues - much like Canggu.
Therefore, in my opinion, it's important for the local authorities and community to carefully manage the growth of tourism in Cemagi to ensure that it does not have negative impacts on the town and its residents.
And we don't simply end up with Canggu V2...