The history of Candidasa dates back to ancient times when it was a small fishing village. Here is a timeline of some significant events in the history of Candidasa:

• Pre-20th century: Candidasa was a small coastal village that primarily relied on fishing as its main source of income.
• 1906: The Dutch colonial government in Indonesia established a trading post in Candidasa to support trade activities with other islands in the region.
• 1946: After Indonesia declared its independence from the Dutch, Candidasa became part of the new republic of Indonesia.
• 1963: The eruption of Mount Agung, a volcano located in the nearby Karangasem regency, caused widespread devastation in Candidasa and the surrounding areas. Many of the village’s residents were forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in other parts of Bali.
• 1970s: Candidasa began to attract attention as a tourist destination, thanks to its scenic beaches and tranquil atmosphere. Many visitors, mostly from Europe and Australia, started to visit the town and stay in simple bungalows and guesthouses.
• 1980s: Candidasa experienced a period of rapid development as new hotels, resorts, and restaurants were built to accommodate the growing number of tourists. This also led to the construction of new infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and electricity supply.
• 1990s: Candidasa continued to grow as a tourist destination, with more upscale resorts and villas opening up in the area. However, this period was also marked by environmental issues such as overfishing, pollution, and coral reef destruction.
• 2000s-present: Candidasa remains a popular destination for travelers seeking a quieter and more laid-back experience in Bali. The town has seen a shift towards more sustainable and responsible tourism practices, with initiatives such as beach clean-ups and community-based tourism projects.

Here are some seaside hotels in Candidasa, Bali:

1. Amankila – a luxury resort with traditional Balinese architecture and stunning ocean views.
2. Alila Manggis – a stylish beachfront resort with a pool overlooking the sea.
3. Candi Beach Resort & Spa – a family-friendly hotel with a beachfront location, pool, and spa.
4. Puri Bagus Candidasa – a boutique resort with ocean-facing rooms, a pool, and a beachfront restaurant.
5. Rama Candidasa Resort & Spa – a mid-range hotel with a beachfront location, pool, and spa.
6. Bali Palms Resort – a budget-friendly resort with ocean-facing rooms, a pool, and a beachfront restaurant.
7. Lotus Bungalows Candidasa – a dive resort with a beachfront location and easy access to nearby dive sites.
8. Candi Beach Villas – a collection of private villas with ocean views, private pools, and access to a secluded beach.
9. Sea Breeze Candidasa – a boutique hotel with a beachfront location and a rooftop terrace with ocean views.
10. Bayshore Villas Candidasa – a collection of private villas with ocean views, private pools, and access to a private beach.

Candidasa is a great destination in Bali for those looking for a more relaxed and less touristy experience. Here are some of the top things to do in Candidasa:

1. Visit the Tenganan Village – a traditional Balinese village located about 4 kilometers from Candidasa. The village is known for its unique culture and traditional weaving techniques.
2. Go snorkeling or diving – Candidasa is a great place for snorkeling and diving as it has some of the best coral reefs in Bali. Some popular dive sites in the area include the Blue Lagoon, Shark Point, and Gili Mimpang.
3. Take a cooking class – learn how to make traditional Balinese dishes with a cooking class. Many hotels and restaurants in Candidasa offer cooking classes where you can learn about Balinese spices and cooking techniques.
4. Visit the Goa Lawah Temple – a Hindu temple located about 10 kilometers from Candidasa. The temple is known for its cave filled with thousands of bats.
5. Take a cycling tour – explore the beautiful countryside around Candidasa on a cycling tour. You can visit rice paddies, traditional villages, and stop for a picnic lunch.
6. Relax on the beach – Candidasa has several beaches where you can relax, swim, and soak up the sun. Some popular beaches in the area include Candidasa Beach, White Sand Beach, and Bias Tugel Beach.
7. Take a day trip to nearby attractions – Candidasa is located in a great location for day trips to nearby attractions such as Mount Agung, the Tirta Gangga Water Palace, and the Besakih Temple.
8. Visit the Lempuyang Temple – a stunning Hindu temple complex located on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang. The temple is known for its iconic “Gates of Heaven” and stunning views of Mount Agung.