IT SEEMS like everyone has either been to Bali, is planning to go to Bali, or wants to go to Bali.
But what about heading to one Indonesian neighbourhood the tourists don’t make a beeline to?
The seaside village of Pererenan was recently named the third coolest neighbourhood in the world by Time Out.
Time Out stated: “While the tourist hordes pack into Canggu, those in the know are heading to neighbouring Pererenan.
“This place will remind you of what made Canggu famous in the first place – pristine beaches, cosy cafés, eclectic shops, and a certain laidback cool, devoid of noise and traffic.”
You won’t miss out on the classic Bali charm though, as the area is great for surfers and those who like to sunbathe.
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One top spot that’s a must-visit is Pererenan’s black-sand beach – which gets its colour due to the volcanic activity on the island.
The beach tends to be less crowded than its neighbours as well, and is known for having amazing sunsets.
When heading to the beach, make sure to lookout for the Gajah Mina Statue, which is of a mythical creature that has the head of an elephant and the body of a fish.
One recent visitor said: “This place was quite lovely. Was able to watch surfers, grab a bite to eat, catch the sunset and watch the tide rise in the evening.
“Lots of restaurants and surfing options – it was very peaceful.”
You can also walk from Pererenan Beach to Echo Beach – one of Bali’s most famous surfing spots in the busier village of Canggu – just 500 metres away.
According to Ministry of Villas, “blending in with trendy Canggu, Pererenan is becoming more popular but still maintains a more relaxed Balinese feel”.
Around the beach you will also find a few spots to grab a bite to eat.
While there aren’t as many restaurants as there are in other neighbourhoods, there is Hippie Fish Pererenan Beach which looks right over the beach.
The Mediterranean-inspired seafood restaurant serves a variety of dishes include red snapper and black cod and also has a rooftop bar where you can grab a cocktail.
There are a number of Balinese temples across the village as well including the Pura Batu Mejan (Kahyangan Jagat) temple, which sits at the edge of the beach.
One visitor commented: “Pura Batu Mejan Canggu is a beautiful temple, unique, highly respected and holds great spiritual significance.
“Visitors can feel a calm and relaxed atmosphere, while enjoying beautiful panoramas at Pererenan Beach.”
One recommended place to stay is Further Hotel which features a unique architecture across its one and two bedroom suites.
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And if you do want to head out of Pererenan then you can visit central Canggu, which is 10 minutes away and home to Bali’s most popular beach clubs and nightclubs.
Around 30 minutes away is also Tanah Lot Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in Bali, sat on a rock offshore.
Flights to Bali from the UK cost from £660 return, per person, in June.