Padangbai or Candidasa?

[nwflyboy]

We will have 2-3 days somewhere in the Padangbai/Candidasa area, which we're planning to use as our base for a couple days diving Nusa Penida (we're basically looking for someplace in that area for our Nusa Penida base - other towns could work, too - I'm not necessarily sold on either of these, they just seem like logical choices - from the other side of the world).

I'm wondering which town would be better suited for this and more to our tastes.

We're looking for someplace easy, relaxing, not terribly expensive but with some comfort. Not interested at all in a big party/nightclub scene (e.g. Kuta), although having a choice of decent food and accommodations is a plus. We do perfer someplace a bit more comfortable than inexpensive backpacker's hotels (I like A/C). We will also be spending parts of both days topside (after diving), so someplace that's pleasant to hang out in for an afternoon/evening would be a plus (a decent beach, any interesting cultural sights nearby or other topside attractions, etc).

Any recommendations (town and/or hotels)? Thanks again!

 

[Wisnu]

Candidasa is more less like Kuta 20 years ago. Many time we passed through or just stopped by for lunch at Candidasa but we never stay there. Plenty choice of budget accomodation, many with A/C. Seem, Candi beach cottage http://www.candibeachbali.com/ is very nice and relatively not expensive; USD 45 for local.
If you can afford, Alila Manggis http://theserai.com/ is top class or if still not enough Amankila http://www.amanresorts.com/home.aspx?id=296 is travel living top 10.

 

[Wisnu]

Sorry not 20 years ago, CD is like Kuta 25 - 30 years ago.
Just realized how old i am .

 

[alanw]

We stayed at the Water Garden Hotel in Candidasa in May this year. It was brilliant. Can't remember the cost as it was part of a package with Aquamarine Divers ( Also brilliant!). It is only a 10 minute drive to Padangbaai and there are plenty of resturants in the area.

 

[frogfish]

Both Padangbai and Candidasa are nice - Would suggest that you approach one of the Padangbai dive centers and they will help you decide on the accommodation based on preferences. If you stay in Candidasa they will pick you up every morning and get you back to your hotel after lunch.

In my experience Padangbai is a bit more budget, but does have a nice beach (no decent beach in Candidasa); in terms of top side activities, both are fine as long as ou organize your transport to visit East Bali.