A Week in Canggu with a Toddler: Things to Do, Eat and Explore

Before travelling to Canggu with my three-year-old daughter, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Canggu is often known for its beach clubs, cafes and surf scene, but after spending a week there, I quickly discovered it's also packed with activities for young families.

If you're staying in a villa and looking for ways to keep little ones entertained between beach days, here's what we'd happily do all over again.

A Week in Canggu with a 3-Year-Old

Every day looked a little different. Some were filled with energetic mornings at playgrounds, while others were slower, with arts and crafts or a simple manicure together. The best part? Almost everything was within a short drive, making it easy to fit plenty into the day without spending hours in traffic.

Things to Do in Canggu with a Toddler

Parklife Bali

Parklife Bali is a fantastic option when you want a mix of indoor and outdoor play. With water play, climbing areas and plenty of space to explore, it's ideal for burning off energy while parents can relax nearby. My daughter also loved sharing lunch with other children, making it a lovely social stop during our week.

Mai Main Playground

If I had to choose one favourite, it would be Mai Main Playground.

We visited twice and somehow spent almost six hours there across our stay. There's so much to do that children happily move from one activity to the next without getting bored. One handy tip: don't forget socks, or you'll need to purchase a pair at the entrance. A thoughtful bonus is the complimentary edamame available for children throughout the day.

Karya Arts & Crafts

After a busy day of running around, Karya Arts & Crafts offered the perfect slower pace.

Over four hours, my daughter painted a hat, decorated a bag, made a necklace, painted clay creations and completed sticker artwork. The teachers were incredibly patient and hands-on, helping children with every project while encouraging their creativity. She left proudly carrying a bag full of handmade treasures.

A Little Self-Care at a Nail Salon

One of our favourite mother-daughter moments was something wonderfully simple: a manicure.

Many nail salons in Canggu offer children's pricing, and the staff made my daughter feel incredibly special while painting her nails. It was a lovely way to slow down together between busier activities.

Beach Play in Canggu

Sometimes the simplest activities are the best.

We spent mornings building sandcastles, collecting shells and meeting other children along the beach. Buckets and spades are easy to buy from nearby stalls if needed. Just remember plenty of sunscreen, hats and water, as it gets hot quickly. Early mornings are the best time to visit.

Family-Friendly Cafés and Restaurants in Canggu

Milk & Madu

Milk & Madu is easy to understand once you visit. There's a dedicated playground, space for children to play, and often staff helping keep little ones entertained. My daughter loved having her face painted before enjoying pancakes for breakfast with some new friends.

Dolan Restaurant & Bar

Located beside The Lawn, Dolan combines relaxed dining with one of the best outdoor playgrounds we found. Swings, slides and seesaws kept my daughter busy while we enjoyed lunch, and feeding the fish in the pond became an unexpected highlight.

A Swim at La Brisa

We arrived early one morning and practically had the children's pool at La Brisa to ourselves. While my daughter splashed around, I enjoyed a quiet coffee overlooking the ocean. It was the perfect start to the day before the crowds arrived.

Getting Around Canggu with a Child

Canggu is busy, with plenty of scooters, traffic and uneven footpaths, so it's worth planning accordingly.

We stayed centrally, meaning we could walk to some places, while short Gojek car rides took us everywhere else. Most journeys were under 10 minutes, making it surprisingly easy to explore without spending too much time travelling.

If you're looking for more family inspiration, don't miss our guides to where to take the kids in Bali, the best kid-friendly beach clubs, family-friendly hotels with playgrounds and our ultimate guide to Canggu.

FAQ

Is Canggu good for families with young children?
Yes, particularly if you're staying in a villa and enjoy mixing cafés, playgrounds and beach time. While it's busier than areas like Sanur or Nusa Dua, there are plenty of activities to keep young children entertained.

What are the best things to do in Canggu with kids?
Mai Main Playground, Parklife Bali, Karya Arts & Crafts, beach play and family-friendly cafés all make excellent options.

Are there family-friendly restaurants in Canggu?
Absolutely. Many cafés and restaurants offer children's menus, colouring activities and playgrounds, making dining out much easier with little ones.