Summary
Surfing in Bali is a dream for wave riders from around the world, and for good reason. The island offers consistent swell, world-class surf spots, tropical vibes, and a rich surf culture, all at an affordable price. From the legendary reef breaks of Uluwatu to the mellow waves of Medewi, Bali has something for surfers of every level.
Whether you’re chasing barrels or just getting started, this Bali surf guide has everything you need to plan your trip—from the best surf spots to where to stay and when to go.
To find the best surfing destination for you, try our WaveFinder search engine!
Of course, such a reputation brings a lot of surfers on the island and line-ups tend to get very crowded. For a bit less people in the water you might want to check out Lombok or Sumbawa or Sumba.
Why Surf in Bali?
-
World-famous waves like Uluwatu, Padang Padang & Keramas
-
Warm water year-round—no wetsuit needed
-
Surf-friendly infrastructure: camps, rentals, and lessons everywhere
-
Affordable lifestyle with great food, cheap transport & scenic stays
-
Plenty to do on flat days, from temples to yoga retreats
When to surf Bali
The best time to surf Bali, is from May to October which is when the Indian Ocean pushes consistent ground swells towards Indonesia. Winds are usually light and offshore on the west side of Bali during that period.
From November to April, conditions will be better on the east side at surf spots like Keramas. It is therefore possible to surf throughout the whole year in Bali.
January-February March-April May-June July-August September-October November-December
Suitable for: All surfers All surfers All surfers All surfers All surfers All surfers
Air temperature 26°C
79°F27°C
81°F
28°C
82°F29°C
84°F28°C
82°F27°C
81°F
Water temperature 29°C
84°F29°C
84°F29°C
84°F29°C
84°F29°C
84°F29°C
84°F
Crowd Very crowded Very crowded Very crowded Very crowded Very crowded Very crowded
Swell consistency 90% 95% 100% 100% 100% 95%
Swell height 5ft 5ft 8ft 9ft 7ft 5ft
Surf Camps in Bali
8-day Intensive Surf Camp in Medewi, Bali
- 2 hours in the water each day
- 8 surf lessons from Monday to Friday
- 3 video coaching sessions and two theory lessons
- Drop-off and pick-up to and from the surf spot
- Daily traditional and western breakfast
- 7 nights accommodation
- Free board rental
- Airport transfers
4-day Surf and Yoga Holiday in Nusa Lembongan
- 3 yoga and meditation classes
- 1 snorkeling trip with the majestic manta rays
- 2 surf lessons with a highly experienced team of instructors
- Use of all yoga equipment including mats, blocks, etc.
- Daily sumptuous vegetarian breakfast
- Transfers from and to Bali
- 3 nights accommodation
Where to stay in Bali
On Bali’s west side, there are two main areas that are great to establish yourself on a surf trip to Bali. The first one is Uluwatu, down in the Bukit’s Peninsula. Uluwatu is strategically positioned close to many of Bali’s best waves, including Padang Padang, Impossibles, Balangan and obviously Uluwatu.
It is a great place to stay with may restaurants and bars right on the cliff which offer amazing sunset views.
Best Places to Stay in Uluwatu
Further up north is the lovely surf town of Canggu which is suitable for surfers looking for a mix of great surf and fun social life. Canggu is a bit more packed and rowdy than Uluwatu but definetly offers a nice upbeat vibe.
Best Places to Stay in Canggu
Villa Impian Room (2-3 guests)
Puri Temple 3-bed Villa (6 guests)
Puri Burung Villa (8-9 guests)
Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deal in Bali!
Surf spots in Bali
Uluwatu
The whole west coast of Bukit is packed with world-class surf spots, Uluwatu being the main attraction. A dreamy left-hand wave with several different peaks that can connect on a decent swell and produce a long, powerful and challenging wave. There are also a few hollow sections to pull in and test your tube-riding skills.
Wave direction : Left
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : Mid to high
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : E
Padang Padang
Right after Uluwatu, comes Padang Padang, a long barreling wave that is just a little more critical than its neighbor.
Wave direction : Left
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : Mid to high
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : SE
Kuta Beach
Only a few minutes from Denpasar airport, Kuta is Bali’s main beach break. Many surf schools and surf shops can be found in the area which is usually why most surfers start their trip here. The wave itself is a typical, yet powerful beach break that should suit all surfing levels.
Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Mid to high
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : E
Canggu
Canggu is a popular and nice surf town that attracts many surfers looking for a mix of social life and waves. The break is fairly gentle and is suitable for surfers of all levels. At night, you can find many bars and clubs in Canggu to meet fellow surfers.
Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Mostly reef
Best tide : Mid to High
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : NE
Medewi
Further up the coast, Medewi is an amazing left-hander that is often forgotten by travelers due to its remote location. However, it is well worth the trip for one of Bali’s longest wave. Medewi breaks over a sandy bottom which is perfect for surfers of all skill levels. Beginners have a blast in Medewi due to its sand bottom, which is pretty rare in Bali, and the soft waves on offer.
Wave direction : Left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Mid to high
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : NE
Keramas
Most popular break on Bali’s east side, Keramas is also a very consistent, high-level surf spot. Located on a beautiful black sand beach, Keramas offers a hollow, yet maneuverable wave breaking on an exposed reef. Keramas has been hosting professional surfing events from the World Surf League in the past and is a great place to check out.
Wave direction : Right
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : High
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : S
Optimal wind direction : W
Getting there and around
The most common way into Bali is from Denpasar International Airport, located next to Kuta. You can also reach the island via a ferry from Java or Lombok. To get around in Bali, renting a motorcycle is probably the best way as it gives you a lot of freedom and remains a fairly cheap option. Many motorcycles also have a surfboard rack to carry your equipment. Make sure to bring an international driving license in case they pull you over for a check up and be very careful driving around as things do get hectic.
Safety/things to know
Visas on arrival are only valid for 30 days for most passports. If you want a second 30 days, you need to apply in advance. For visa information, visit the Indonesian government’s website.
Crowds get very heavy in Bali especially during the high surf season. You may want to consider visiting the neighboring islands of Lombok, Nusa Lembongan or Sumbawa which are less busy.
Foodborne illnesses are frequent in Bali. Bring some electrolytes and be careful what you eat and drink.