Bali’s beaches are not only popular for their beautiful landscape, but they are also well-known for their many surf spots in Bali. Surfing in Bali absolutely deserves a top spot on your traveller’s bucket list and we are ready to prove why!
Keep in mind that while you can find a number of beaches on this idyllic Indonesian island, only a few are ideal for surfing.
Looking for accommodation in Bali? Check out our Bali Accommodation Guide for a few tips.
Surfing in Bali: The best surf spots in Bali
1. Nusa Lembongan
If you plan on surfing in Bali, make sure to check out this spot! Nusa Lembongan is a very small island that is located at a distance of 20 km from the eastern shores of Bali. It takes about an hour to reach the island on a speedboat. You can also choose leisurely cruises that take you from Bali to the island of Nusa Lembongan. The natural landscape of the island is spellbinding, but you will find that it is also the perfect destination for surfing. You can also enjoy diving and snorkeling here as well.
The beach on this island is not crowded and you can visit it throughout the year. However, the best time to surf in Nusa Lembongan is between April and October, as the breakers are high and perfect for the activity.
2. Serangan Beach
If you are planning to visit Denpasar, you certainly must pay a visit to Serangan Beach, which is located near a small island. This beach too is not crowded and hence, surfers tend to love this area, especially the beginners and novices. The waves here reach a height of about 4 to 6 feet and this attracts many novices who want to try their hand at surfing.
The best time to surf at Serangan Beach is in the morning, while the best time during the year to visit is from November to April.
3. Kuta Reef
Not only is this reef ideal for surfers, it is also a great place for snorkelers. It is located off the famous Kuta Beach, right in front of the popular Sandhi Pala Motel. You will have to swim 800 meters from the beach to get to the reef. Alternatively, you can hire a boat to reach the reef.
If you’re a newbie surfer, you can also take surfing lessons here.
4. Uluwatu
Located in northern Bali, Uluwatu is quite close to Pura Uluwatu. This surfing beach is meant solely for experienced surfers, as the waves can get pretty high. Check with the locals for the best time to surf. Uluwatu is renowned for holding surfing competitions, which attract surfers from all over the world.
5. Padang Galak
Also known as Ketewel Beach, Padang Galak Beach is one of the best beaches to surf in Bali. You can take a taxi from Denpasar to reach this beach in about 20 minutes. This surfing spot is also known to be the hot favorite of a number of Japanese surfers and beach aficionados.
6. Medewi Beach
Medewi Beach is located at Jembrana. As a result, you can easily locate this beach from Denpasar. The waves here are quite high, making it the perfect beach for experienced surfers. Plan your visit to the beach in the morning, when the surf is high and perfect for an exhilarating experience.
The Best surf camps in Bali
Surfs up in Bali and whether you are a beginner, one of the intermediate surfer or advanced surfer, one of the best ways to interact with those famous waves is at a surf camp! Bali surf camps are one of the best ways to experience excellent waves, beautiful weather and Bali’s natural beauty!
Here is your personal surf guide for choosing the best Bali surf camps:
Pelan Pelan
The Pelan Pelan surf camp is the ideal location for an avid surfer! Surrounded by gorgeous beaches, rice fields and Hindu temples, this surf camp is the ultimate relaxation shop!
There are incredible interactive surf classes that are customized to meet your exact surf level. Better yet, you can also rent out surf equipment there! Included in the price of the camp is also healthy breakfasts, traditional Indonesian lunches, as well as airport pick-up on arrival.
Wave House Surf Camp & School
This surfing school is the perfect place to not only learn how to surf but to improve your surfing skills in the most aesthetic location! This little surf escape will help build your surf knowledge and grant you access to several surf instructors.
You should also keep note that you are expected to attend daily surfing sessions and during these classes you are given photo & video analysis, as well as quality lessons and theory classes. Wave House Surf & Camp School also has incredible facilities including a waterpark, a fully equipped gym, tennis court and cycling areas!
Surf Goddess Retreat
This specific Bali surf club is specifically created for women that look to be surrounded by feminine, powerful energy! This incredible retreat focuses on decadent, healthy, nutritious meals as well as confident boosting surf lessons and empowering yoga classes. Included in this package is also unlimited spa treatments, because honestly, treat yourself. Surfing in Bali has never been more fun and interactive!
In Da Surf
This semi-private eight-day surf camp is all about outdoor fun, getting your toes in the sand, and riding as many waves as possible. This surf vacation is particularly focused on immersing its visitors in the authentic Bali surf culture. Surfing in Bali is all about delving into all of the incredible waves on offer, most of which you will find at In Da Surf!
There are also additional social activities for you to get stuck into whilst visiting! This includes delicious social barbeques with fellow surfers, meditative yoga classes, movie nights and traditional surfing and wellness workshops!
Newbro Surfing
If you are going to be surfing in Bali, then you have to attend Newbro Surfing which is often refer to as one of Bali’s hidden gems! Located on the incredibly beautiful island of Nusa Lembongan this is an absolute bucket list essential.
Newbro Surfing is already an adventure in itself. All you have to do is take a ferry from the mainland to the heavenly turquoise waters of Lembongan. You will then need to take a boat where they start breaking in the middle of the water – this is where your life-changing surfing adventure begins.
Many of the surfers that have attended this surfing location also mention that one of the many perks is when you are offered an opportunity to snorkel alongside the giant, angel-like manta rays!
See also Best Destinations for Surfing Holidays Around the World.
Now that you know the best surf spots in Bali, it is time you include these into your travel itinerary when you book your trip. So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy a fun-filled vacation surfing in Bali with your family and friends.
Check out our other Bali posts:
Places to Visit While on Honeymoon in Bali
Local Food in Bali: Top Dishes You Have to Try