These days, Bali doesn’t require a formal introduction anymore. But what drives humans to blow off all responsibilities, travel across the globe, trek through jungles to pristine beaches on Bali, and embark on the never-ending search for the perfect wave? The concept is simple: a breaking wave, a board, and a brave soul are all that are needed—wherever waves are, surfers will ride them.

There are several excellent surfing spots on Bali just waiting to be discovered. Beginners should start at Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, or Berawa. Pro and intermediate surfers should go to Green Bowl, Balangan, Bingin, and Blue Point. This guide will point you in the right direction and beyond. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll uncover your own hidden gem along the way.

 

Best Surf Areas

  • The west coast of the island and Bukit peninsula are the places to be in the dry season, when the biggest swells hit Bali
  • Mellow beach breaks are on offer in Kuta, Legian and Seminyak
  • Nice clean waves can be found near Canggu and Kuta Reef
  • Massive left-hand barrels are common in Bingin, Padang Padang, and Uluwatu under the right conditions
  • The swells die down and winds change direction during the wet season, making the east coast a better option
  • In the east, the more challenging Keramas wave and the long, heavy right-handers of Nusa Dua await

Surfing Essentials

Surfing – good to know

Uluwatu, the place with the most magical view for surfing, has many wonderful spots. Suluban Beach is one of the beaches with easy access. Before reaching the beach, you must descend stairs through local residents and cafes. It’s a small but lovely rocky beach with a fantastic sunset view.
It is known for five famous waves: The Peak, Bombie, Temple, Racetracks, and The Outside Corner. These spots all break left down the reef, with sections that vary depending on the size of the swell. Recommended for experienced surfers. The seafloor is a jagged reef. The best time to surf is during the dry season, which lasts from May to September each year.
Kuta is the most well-known beach in Bali and has a sandy bottom, making it a great spot to pick up surfing. Surf schools, board rentals, and surf shops can be found all over Kuta.
It’s a beach break with right and left swells, perfect for any shape or size board! The best tide for surfing is mid to high tide. However, the beach can become filthy at times, particularly after heavy rains during the wet season.
Canggu is actually a collection of beaches, including Berawa, Nelayan, and, of course, Batu Bolong, all of which are becoming increasingly popular with visitors. Echo Beach, a small stretch of black sand popular with surfers, is the most well-known beach in the area. This location offers an incredible variety of waves in a small area that are suitable for intermediate-level surfers but also popular with visiting and local pros.
There are at least six types of waves in Canggu that are named after nearby cafes: Old Man’s, The Sandbar, Echo Beach, Pererenan, Canggu (also known as River Mouth), and Batu Bolong. The majority are reef breaks. Expect a crowded beach and trash during peak season (December and July). Beginner surfers are advised to enroll in one of Canggu’s surf schools, where instructors speak English, Russian, German, and French.

Beginner or Experienced Surfer?

Surf Camps & Packages

Travelers who want to try surfing for the first time or more advanced surfers with a limited amount of time will appreciate hiring a surf guide, staying at a surf camp, or booking a surfing package through an agency. These approaches will help you take advantage of local knowledge and find conditions that suit your skill level. Most packages come with a driver who will make sure you get to the right place at the right time, maximizing your surf session.

Individuals

For tourists who are less serious and just want to have a go, boards can be rented at most of the places suitable to beginners. Make sure to ask around if you are not sure what the waves are like. Bali has great spots for beginners, but many of the more advanced breaks have dangerous currents, sharp coral reef bottoms, and locals who are less tolerant of newbies. The perfect spot is out there for you, so just ask around and find it.

Experienced

The island of Bali is ideal for seasoned surfers with extra time to recharge and stock up on gear. Kuta has more surf stores per kilometer than anywhere else on the planet and well-stocked surf shops are available in all major centers around the island, offering tail pads, leashes, wax, and surf gear from all the major brands. Prices are more affordable than in many other countries. If you need to have your board fixed, Bali’s ding specialists will do it quick, perfectly, and at a very low price. Renting a motorcycle equipped with a surf rack allows you to explore on your own or with a group of friends with ease. What are you waiting for? With surfable waves available for most of the year, Bali provides everything a surfer could desire. 

Surf Schools, Spots, and Beaches