What to do in your leisure time during Wacky Jacky’s Textile Retreat in Candidasa
Candidasa is a hidden gem of Bali, with its well-preserved temples and secluded beaches. Visitors can enjoy this little-known corner that has been preserved for decades without having to travel too far from the island’s center.
Located two hours away from Canggu (three from the south of the island), Candidasa is the quieter sister to the bustling streets of Canggu and Seminyak. The small seaside town is home to some of the most beautiful textile shops, as well as the lovely grey-sanded beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
So, what to do in your retreat’s free time then? Check out our lists below!
Visit Bali’s oldest temples
The first temple you will see on the way to Candidasa is Goa Lawah. The literal translation of the Bat Cave Temple is located 40 kilometers from Bali’s center, and only 17 kilometers from Wacky Jacky’s Textile Shop. Historically, Goa Lawah was one of the major locations of the Kusamba War, a war between the regency’s Dewa Agung Istri Kanya and the Dutch colony, whom, by the way, she managed to defeat—yay to girl’s powers!
Going up around 20 kilometers to the north, you will also find Lempuyang Temple. Also known as the Gate to Heaven, the temple is located on top of a hill, where visitors will have to do a little hike (an easy one, I promise!) to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. This hike offers the rewards of towering shrines, a dragon staircase, and breathtaking views of Mount Agung.
Amed for the day
Caution: Pretty things only!
Amed is a sleepy fishing town popular for diving located in the east tip of Bali. The coastal town is approximately 60 km away from Bali’s centre, and 33 km (or an hour) away from Wacky Jacky’s Textile Shop. The peace and quiet will be a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of other touristy beaches in Bali.
The small town features stunning reefs, crystal-clear waters, and volcanic, pebbled beaches, and of course, the breathtaking view of Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest volcano. Other than those beautiful things, take a swim by the shore, and you will be mesmerized by the vibrant fish and coral hiding beneath the surface.
See the Lotus Lagoon
The Lotus Lagoon is a five-minute walk from Wacky Jacky’s Textile Shop. Candidasa's local landmark is a seaside lotus pond that is absolutely a show stealer, especially when the pink and fuschia lotuses are open to bloom.
The venue is free to the public and accessible from the side of the main street. You will be able to easily distinguish the Lotus Lagoon, as it is an expansive body of water with a lower elevation than the main road in Candidasa. At the mouth of the entrance, you will find twin shrines under a densely forested hillside. Take the steps downstairs, and get completely immersed in the Lotus Lagoon experience!
Get Candidasa salt-equipped
Yes, I said that correctly! Candidasa is a great place to stock up on your salt supply.
Besides fishing, salt farming makes up the livelihood of the locals in Candidasa. Using natural methods, the locals process seawater into household salt by drying it in the sun. You will have an amazing opportunity to try samples of the salt before you make a purchase, so you can be sure you're getting the best quality product. Plus, it is a great way to show support for the local community.
Try the coffee at Wacky Jacky’s Cafe
As the owner of WJ’s Cafe, I must admit that we serve pretty dang amazing coffee!
If you are like us and you cannot start the day without a great cup of hot coffee, you will be happy to know that our coffee is made of freshly-ground coffee beans and made with either fresh, soy, or almond milk—and at a reasonable price, too!
So, come on in and enjoy a cup of coffee with us before you depart on your Candidasa adventures.
