Dima Nevsky is a true Bali old-timer. He moved to the island more than 15 years ago, back when there were no fashionable restaurants, coffee shops, or luxury villas. Together with his wife, he founded the surf school Kinetika. Surfing Methodologies, lives in Canggu, raises their children, and teaches anyone willing to get on a board.
At the request of Locals Insider, Dmitry shared his favorite places on the island.
Brew Bar & Roastery — Padonan — for a great cup of coffee
Baked on Padonan Street is a local favorite for excellent coffee and consistently good pastries. The team really knows what they are doing.
Sardine — seafood for dinner
A fusion restaurant with outstanding seafood, set right next to rice fields. It is one of those places where dinner feels both delicious and beautifully staged.
Order the grilled octopus, mussels, or lobster soup. Make sure to book in advance — it is almost always full.
Waterbom — time well spent with the family
One of the best water parks around, with plenty of fun and genuinely thrilling slides. I go there regularly with my family every year. It works for all ages — pure joy.
Pantai Gunung Payung — surfing
Striking architectural structures, a beautiful beach, and a solid surf spot for confident surfers (not suitable for beginners or intermediates). I lived nearby for several years a long time ago, and this place still feels very close to my heart. A lot has changed over the past 12 years, but it remains special.
Aurora Cabins — a romantic weekend
Cozy jungle cabins located in the very heart of the island. A highly atmospheric mountain retreat with private terraces and jacuzzis. Just take a look at the photos on Google Maps — everything becomes clear immediately. Nights start from $25.
Bali Farm House — a day out with kids
A farm located near Lake Buyan in central Bali. The grounds are spacious, with opportunities to feed animals, ride ponies, see ostriches, and simply enjoy a walk.
A warm, atmospheric place that works perfectly for families with children.
Black Sand Brewery — tasting every beer on tap
A brewery, bar, and gastrobar all in one, located in the center of Canggu. A wide selection of well-crafted beers, excellent food, and live music. Open from noon until midnight, it has maintained a consistently high level of service from its opening days to now.
Single Fin — sunset views
A café overlooking one of Bali’s most iconic surf spots — Uluwatu. This is where world-class waves break, and when conditions are right, the surfing is spectacular to watch.
Or simply come to watch the sunset from the edge of the cliff, with sweeping views of the ocean.
Yema Kitchen — signature cocktails
Excellent Moroccan cuisine and genuinely good cocktails. Rabbits hop around the garden, and the overall atmosphere is warm and relaxed in the heart of Canggu.
I love having dinner here with my wife.
Kinetika Surfing Methods — getting on the board
Our favorite surf school for anyone who wants to learn how to surf. We teach, not entertain — that is our motto.
If this list makes you want to keep exploring the island, you are on the right track. We have put together a separate guide to Bali beaches where you can swim, with clear reference points, conditions, and nuances that travelers usually only discover once they arrive. Save it — so the ocean leaves you with nothing but good memories.
