Bali is famous for its densely forested volcanic mountains, signature rice paddies, beaches, coral reefs, surfing Bali waves, and Hindu culture. Even though Bali is now a Mecca for tourists and touring surfers, the Hindu culture is still prominent. Not only is Bali’s vast array of reef breaks distributed throughout its coastline unique, but so are the immensely patient, accepting, and tolerable Balinese people who welcome millions of foreign visitors in quest of Bali surf every year.
Travellers, surfers, and ex-pats regard the island as genuinely magical. Most people cannot bear leaving and making it their home. However, the unfortunate ones driven back to reality are drawn back year after year to pursue the next surfing adventure, chasing the swell of their dreams. Unsurprisingly, so many people travel to Bali in quest of the best surfing adventure, perfect waves, and booming barrels.
Bali is best recognised for its exquisite barrelling left-hand reef breakers, but there is also a diverse selection of world-class right-hand reef breaks. Thanks to the vast list of prominent surf spots, there is no shortage of waves for expert surfers. There are also many mellower surf places for intermediate surfers and beach break choices for beginners.
SURFING IN BALI
The truth is that there is always surf in Bali. While it certainly pumps at certain times of the year, unrideable waves on the island are uncommon. And if there is, it is simply an excuse to take a day off. On land, there is plenty of entertainment to be enjoyed.
During the dry season, Bali’s reefs and beach breaks soak up the surge between April and October. Swells are driven up from the southwest over the Indian Ocean, while trade winds from the southeast favour the breaks on the southwest coast. During the rainy season, when the trade winds shift to the northwest, surf locations on Bali’s eastern coastline light up with erratic swells, unlike the dry season.
While the north of Bali rises to 3,031 m (9,944 ft) at Mount Agung’s summit, the southern scenery narrows into a flat landscape of white sand beaches with areas of cliffs that descend into the reef and stunning white sand beaches. This unique and spectacular destination in Indo offers a fascinating variation in terrain, culture, and surf.
Surfing in Bali is classified according to region. Batu Bolong, Kuta, and Kedungu are located to the north. Beaches such as Keramas can be found to the east. The lovely Bukit peninsula, home to places like Uluwatu, is to the west. Each location has its beauty, from the people who visit the environment and the waves. It’s worth touring the entire island of Bali to understand how diverse and magnificent the environment is.
Surfing Locations for Beginners
Padang Padang Beach
Padang Padang, also known as Labuan Sait Beach, is one of Bali’s most famous surf spots.
Padang Padang, widely regarded as one of the best lefts on the planet, is usually a notch that all experienced surfers strive to carve into their belt. The SE trade winds blow offshore into walled-up, barrelling perfection from the Bukit peninsula. Because of advancements in wave forecasting, you can expect to see elite surfers in the lineup, right off the plane, on the best days. However, even for pros and professionals, a great day at Padang Padang could be the worst day of your life, leaving you with a broken board or in the hospital. To cut a long story short, recognise your limits. Nevertheless, even as a spectator, Padang Padang is worth the trip, so read on for surf advice and recommendations on the best surf lodgings in the vicinity.
How to Get There
Kuta Beach Surfing
The most well-known of Bali’s beaches since tourism in Bali began is, of course, Kuta Beach.
The lengthy stretch of golden sand offers a picturesque shoreline for beachgoers and a safe bottom for surfers of all skill levels. Although beginners are most usually found learning to surf at Kuta beach, there are also plenty of natives demonstrating a high level of surfing and occasionally veteran surfers washing off a Kuta hangover between surf vacations to other Indonesian islands.
How to Get There
Dreamland Beach (New Kuta Beach)
Dreamland Beach in Bali, once a serene and sleepy beach hamlet, now reminds visitors of John Milton’s Paradise Lost.
Dreamland Beach, nestled amid a deluge of development ranging from luxury hotels and condos to golf courses stretching from Balangan to Bingin, is a popular haunt for modern travellers looking to experience a Bali that is becoming increasingly difficult to locate. However, Dreamland is still a lovely beach on the Bukit peninsula. Unfortunately, if you’re not staying at one of the beachfront hotels, you’ll have to pay to access the 100-metre stretch of (ultra) soft sand, exposed rock, blue/green crystal clear sea, and thickly vegetated exposed cliffs.
How to Get There
Bali Surfing FAQs
Nusa Dua is renowned for its consistent right-hand reef break, offering various waves that break on different tides and conditions.
Yes, beginners can surf in Bali. Despite its reputation for advanced waves, Bali also offers numerous beginner-friendly surf spots, particularly near surf resorts on the Bukit Peninsula.
Yes, Nusa Dua offers waves suitable for all levels, including beginners, intermediates, and advanced surfers.
Yes, beginners can surf at Uluwatu, although it’s more renowned for its variety of surf spots catering to all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. There are 9 surf spots in the Uluwatu area, offering a range of challenges for different skill levels.
Yes, Seminyak is suitable for surfing, especially at low tide for beginners with some prior experience. The waves are comparable to those in Kuta.
Yes, surfing is possible during the rainy season, offering good waves and fewer crowds at certain spots.
Ubud itself doesn’t offer surfing as it’s inland, but there are surf spots within driving distance on the coasts of Bali.
Absolutely, Bali is renowned for its superb surfing opportunities, particularly on the southern coasts and around the Bukit peninsula. These locations are best suited for advanced surfers, featuring challenging reef breaks and impressive waves.
Not necessarily. A rash guard is recommended for protection against sunburns and surf rash, but the warm waters of Bali typically don’t necessitate a wetsuit.
Booties are not usually required but may be necessary at certain spots on lower tides, especially for independent surfers.
An “all-inclusive” surf trip to G-land in Bali can range from $620 USD for 3 days to $800 USD for 6 days. Prices vary based on duration and inclusivity of the package.
Renting a standard surfboard costs Rp250,000 per day, while a premium surfboard is Rp350,000.
Lombok is often considered better for beginner or intermediate surfers, while Bali, particularly the Bukit Peninsula, is known for its concentration of world-class waves.
Surfing in South Bali, especially in areas like Bukit/Uluwatu, Canggu, and Kuta, can be crowded. These popular spots can experience significant crowding, but they also offer diverse surfing experiences.
Most breaks in Canggu have some rock or reef, but ‘reef rash’ is less of a concern except during low tides and larger swells. East wind is ideal for surfing here.
Canggu features a mix of sand and reefs, with relatively slow waves suitable for beginners, longboarders, and SUP enthusiasts.
Canggu is a surfer’s paradise in Bali, offering consistent waves for all skill levels. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and variety of waves.
Canggu is suitable for beginners but can be crowded. The Peak at Berawa Beach offers a less crowded environment for beginners.
Surfing in Bali is generally safe, though it’s important to be cautious of flying surfboards, crowded lineups, and reef cuts.
Kuta is excellent for beginners and less experienced surfers, offering the softest sand-bottom waves in Bali. It’s known for its smaller, manageable waves.
Kuta Beach is ideal for beginners and less experienced surfers, offering soft, sand-bottom waves and smaller, manageable waves.
Sanur is best surfed at high tide, particularly during the wet season. It’s known for offshore Westerly winds.
It depends on your preference. Canggu offers a laid-back, surf-friendly atmosphere, while Seminyak is known for its luxurious, cosmopolitan vibe with gourmet dining and high-end shopping.
Seminyak Beach, more exposed to direct swells than Kuta, can have larger surf. It’s suitable for learning but beware of strong rip tides during larger swells.
Yes, Seminyak is popular among tourists and surfers for its small waves, making it great for beginners. The surf spot near Denpasar airport requires a traditional boat to reach.
Seminyak is a popular place for learning to surf, with a coastline that offers shallow sandy beach breaks and easy white waves.
Bali is generally preferred for surfing, offering superior wave conditions compared to Thailand.
Uluwatu is a reef break, with a left-hand wave over a sharp reef. It’s recommended for experienced surfers.
Uluwatu is challenging, known for handling all sizes of swells on its extensive reef playground. It’s a forefront surfing location in Bali.
While there are hundreds of wave chances throughout the island, the Bukit Peninsula has the most significant concentration of consistent, scenic, and easily accessible breaks. The area has dramatic cliffs, majestic temples, and white sand beaches.
Bring a variety of boards including smaller boards with different tails, a medium board for slightly bigger days, and a big board ranging from 6′ to 7′ for Bali’s waves.
Beginners should surf at high tide when waves are moderate (around 3-5 feet). Surf schools are recommended for beginners, like Dawn Patrol Surf School.
Wear a rashguard or wetsuit jacket for protection against surf rash and sunburn. Ensure to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect Bali’s coral reefs.
Uluwatu, or Ulu’s, is Bali’s most famous wave, known for its consistency, multiple sections, and long left-handers.
The optimal surfing period in Bali is from May to September, during the dry season. This time offers the best offshore wind conditions. It’s ideal for experienced surfers looking to challenge popular reefs, but also accommodates beginners.
Surfing in Bali is great throughout the day, from 5.30am to 6.30pm. The island’s diverse spots cater to different levels and preferences all day.
The best time is the dry season from May to September, especially for the west coast breaks like Uluwatu and Padang Padang. Winter (June-August) brings large swells and strong winds.
Uluwatu, on the Bukit peninsula, is famous for its perfect left-hander break and big-wave surfing during large swells.
Kuta Beach is the most popular for beginners, offering easy access, a long sandbar, and manageable waves.
Medewi offers a less crowded surfing experience compared to the popular southern Bali spots. This location is notable for its softer waves at high tide and faster waves in bigger swell/lower tide conditions, especially around midday.
Canggu is considered one of the best places for beginners and intermediate surfers, with several peaks offering soft longboard waves. It’s known for its accessible waves that break multiple times.
Uluwatu is renowned for its consistent waves, stunning scenery, and legacy dating back to the 1970s. It’s a world-renowned surfing destination.