Picture yourself paddling out at sunrise, the warm Bali waters around you, and perfect waves peeling in the distance. That’s exactly what drew me to this surfing paradise over a decade ago! As someone who’s wiped out on nearly every break from Kuta to Uluwatu (and lived to tell about it), I’ve learned that choosing the right spot for your skill level can make or break your Bali surf experience. Here’s the thing – 28% of surfing accidents happen because surfers attempt waves beyond their ability. But don’t worry! Whether you’re just learning to pop up or you’re chasing the legendary lefts at Padang Padang, this guide will help you find your perfect wave.
Looking for Surf stays and trips to in Bali?
👉🏻 Find awesome Surf stays in Bali
👉🏻 Find best surf lessons and guides from Bali
Best Beginner Surf Spots in Bali
Let me tell you about my first surfing experience in Bali – it was a complete disaster! I made the rookie mistake of heading straight to Uluwatu because I’d seen it in surf magazines. Big mistake. Huge! That’s why I always tell beginners to start at Kuta Beach.
Kuta Beach is absolutely perfect for beginners, and I’ll tell you why. The sandy bottom means you won’t have to worry about reef cuts (trust me, those aren’t fun!), and the waves break consistently in a way that’s perfect for learning. I spent my first month here just getting comfortable with the basics.
The best part about learning at Kuta? The waves typically peak at 2-4 feet, giving you plenty of time to practice your pop-up technique. I’ve found the early morning sessions, around 7-8 AM, offer the cleanest conditions before the wind picks up.
Over in Canggu, Old Man’s break is another fantastic spot for beginners. This spot holds a special place in my heart – it’s where I finally managed to stand up on my board for more than two seconds! The wave here is slower and more forgiving than other spots, perfect for building confidence.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the surf schools in these areas. I was too proud to take lessons at first, but once I did, my progress skyrocketed. Most schools charge around 350,000 IDR ($25) for a two-hour lesson, and it’s absolutely worth every rupiah.
Intermediate Surfing Locations
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to level up! Berawa Beach in Canggu became my go-to spot when I was ready to challenge myself. The waves here are a bit more powerful than Kuta, but not as intimidating as the advanced spots.
I remember my first session at Bingin Beach like it was yesterday. The reef break here can be tricky, but it offers the perfect stepping stone to more challenging waves. Here’s what I learned the hard way: always check the tide charts! Mid to high tide is your friend here, as the reef becomes exposed during low tide.
Balangan Beach holds some of my favorite memories – and a few memorable wipeouts too! The long left-handers here are perfect for working on your technique. Just watch out for the strong currents during bigger swells. I always bring extra water and a good reef-safe sunscreen because once you start surfing here, you won’t want to leave!
Advanced Surf Spots and Challenges
Ah, Uluwatu – the crown jewel of Bali surfing. This spot humbled me more times than I can count before I finally felt comfortable surfing here. The wave here breaks in several sections, each offering its own unique challenge. The Temples section is particularly tricky, with its fast takeoffs and hollow barrels.
Padang Padang (or “Padang” as the locals call it) is another world-class wave that demands respect. The barrel here is intense – I spent three seasons just working up the courage to properly charge it. Remember: this spot works best during the dry season (April to October) when the swell direction is just right.
Seasonal Surf Guide and Weather Patterns
Let me share something I wish I’d known earlier – Bali’s surf spots transform completely with the seasons. During the dry season (April to October), the east winds create perfect conditions at west-facing breaks like Uluwatu and Padang Padang. The waves are generally bigger and more consistent during this time.
The wet season (November to March) shouldn’t be overlooked though! While some spots get messy, others come alive. I’ve had some of my best sessions at Keramas during this period. The crowds thin out, and you might score perfect waves with just a few people out.
Essential Bali Surfing Tips and Etiquette
Here’s something crucial that many surf guides don’t mention – respect for local customs is absolutely essential. I learned this lesson when I unknowingly paddled out during a temple ceremony at Uluwatu. The locals were incredibly understanding, but I felt terrible about my mistake.
Always check if there are any ceremonies scheduled, particularly around full moons and Balinese holidays. Most surf spots have a local warung (small restaurant) where you can ask about conditions and any upcoming ceremonies.
Planning Your Bali Surf Trip
After years of trial and error, I’ve found that basing yourself in certain areas can make or break your surf trip. For beginners, staying in Kuta or Canggu provides easy access to suitable waves and plenty of surf schools. Intermediate surfers might prefer Bingin or Balangan, while advanced surfers often choose to stay near Uluwatu.
Transportation is crucial – I recommend renting a scooter if you’re comfortable riding one. Most places charge around 70,000 IDR ($5) per day, and having your own transport means you can chase the best conditions each day.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to charge the biggest waves of your life, Bali has a spot for you. Remember to always surf within your abilities, respect the local community, and take time to progress naturally through different spots as your skills improve.
Don’t forget to check the daily surf reports (I use Magicseaweed and Surfline), always surf with a buddy when possible, and most importantly – have fun! The waves will always be there tomorrow, so there’s no need to rush your progression.
Share your own Bali surfing experiences in the comments below – I’d love to hear about your favorite spots and any lessons you’ve learned along the way!
Editor’s Note: For the most up-to-date information on surf conditions and spot access, always check with local surf schools or guides, as conditions can change seasonally and some spots may be temporarily closed for ceremonies or other events.
