Surfing Guide to Bali, Indonesia

• Summary

• When to go

• Surf Camps

• Where to stay

• Getting there

• Safety/things to know

• Surf spots

Summary

In the surfing world, Bali is known to have some of the best waves and surfing culture out of all places you can possibly think of, hence why it is most surfers’ favorite destination. Bali is the island of consistent waves, great food, tropical weather and all this, at a very low cost. This destination literally has something to please everyone from volcanoes, jungle, beaches, temples, cliffs and probably one of the most welcoming local population you will ever come across.

 

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.

 

From a surfer’s point of view, Bali has become a must-visit destination at least one in a lifetime. In Bali, there are surf spots everywhere and for surfers of all skill levels. Therefore, advanced surfers will probably head south to the Bukit Peninsula while beginners will want to make their way further north to Kuta, Canggu or Medewi where waves are typically softer and not as critical.

 

Find a Surf Camp in Bali, starting at US$125

 

An island with so many surf spots

In Bukit, pretty much every spot is a reef break and things can get really heavy at places like Uluwatu or Padang Padang. On the other end, up north at Medewi, swell does not reach quite as much and offers nice and mellow waves.

 

On the east side, one of the most consistent break of the island, world-class Keramas will challenge even the best surfers out there. It is also one of the few right-handers you will come across on Bali.

 

Another special thing about Bali is how even non-surfers love this island so even on rest days, there are a lot of things to do. For a little rejuvenation, the jungle in Ubud is a very nice option with many yoga retreats. For the more active travelers, why not go and climb Mt. Agung, Bali’s active volcano.

 

 

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, which makes it possible to surf throughout the whole year in Bali.

 

 

Surf Camps in Bali

8-day Intensive Surf Camp in Medewi, Bali
US$574, including:

• 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
US$329, including:

• 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

Le Cliff Bali

Suarga Padang Padang

Alila Villas 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.