East Bali Escape: A Parent’s Guide to Finding Nannies in Candi Dasa

You’ve chosen Candi Dasa for a very specific reason. You want to escape the gridlock traffic of the south, wake up to sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, and experience a slower, more authentic pace of Balinese life.

But even in a tranquil paradise, parents need a break. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet, romantic dinner by the famous lotus lagoon, take a snorkeling trip to Blue Lagoon without worrying about the current, or simply read a book uninterrupted by the pool, reliable childcare is essential.

Finding a nanny in East Bali is a different experience than in hubs like Seminyak or Canggu. The “on-demand” app infrastructure doesn’t exist here in the same way. Finding trustworthy childcare requires a bit more foresight, but the reward is immense peace of mind.

Here is a parent’s guide to navigating childcare in Candi Dasa so you can truly unwind.

1. The Childcare Landscape in Candi Dasa

Before you start your search, it helps to understand the local environment. Because Candi Dasa is quieter and less commercialized, the pool of freelance, English-speaking nannies waiting for a last-minute booking is much smaller.

Childcare here relies heavily on community networks. The most reliable nannies are often employed full-time by resorts or are trusted family members of villa staff. This tight-knit community accountability is actually a massive safety net for parents—reputation means everything in East Bali villages.

2. Your Best Options for Securing a Nanny

The “In-House” Solution (Best for Convenience)

The most common and reliable method in Candi Dasa is to utilize your accommodation’s network.

• How to do it: Email your hotel or villa manager at least two weeks before your arrival. Ask: “Do you have trusted staff members who provide babysitting services during their off-hours?”

• The Benefit: The staff member is already vetted by the management, knows the property layout, and is a familiar face to your children if they have been cleaning the room or serving breakfast.

Professional Bali-Wide Agencies

If you require specialized care (like infant CPR training) or guaranteed fluent English, you can book a professional agency.

• How to do it: Contact established Bali nanny agencies well in advance.

• The Benefit: Strict vetting and professional standards.

• The Catch: Because most agencies are based in the south, you will likely be charged a significant “travel fee” for them to commute to Candi Dasa, or you may be required to provide them with accommodation if you are booking multiple days.

3. Crucial Questions for the Candi Dasa Environment

When you meet your potential nanny, standard interview questions apply, but you must also address the specific environment of East Bali:

• The Water Safety Rule: Many villas in Candi Dasa are situated directly on the oceanfront or have unfenced pools. You must ask explicitly if the nanny can swim. Many locals cannot. If she cannot swim, set a strict boundary: No pool or ocean access while we are gone.

• Language and Communication: English levels may be more basic than in the south. When giving instructions about allergies or bedtime routines, use simple language, write it down, and have them repeat it back to ensure understanding.

4. Evening Logistics and Etiquette

If you are planning an adults-only dinner at Vincent’s or a late-night acoustic set at a local cafe, you need to manage the evening logistics carefully.

• Safe Transport Home: Candi Dasa’s main road can be dark and quiet at night. It is culturally expected—and a matter of basic safety—that you ensure your nanny gets home safely. Offer an extra IDR 30,000 – 50,000 for petrol if she has a scooter, or ask the hotel security to escort her.

• Meals: Balinese culture is deeply rooted in hospitality. If the nanny is watching your children over dinner time, offer her “uang makan” (meal money, usually around IDR 50,000) so she can buy dinner from a local warung, or allow her to order a simple meal from the villa menu.