The Ultimate Guide to Surfing in Bali: Best Spots, Seasons, and Tips
Bali is a global surfing paradise, attracting wave riders from around the world with its warm waters, consistent swell, and diverse surf breaks. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer chasing your next adrenaline rush, Bali has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best surf spots in Bali, the ideal seasons for surfing, and tips to make the most of your time on the island’s waves.
1. Uluwatu (Bukit Peninsula)
- Best for: Advanced/Pro surfers
- Wave Type: Multiple breaks (The Peak, Racetrack, Outside Corner, Temples, and The Bombie)
- Size: 3-10+ feet
- Season: Dry season (May to September)
Details: Uluwatu is known for its consistent, world-class waves and breathtaking scenery. Paddle out through a cave to access the break, with each section offering a unique challenge. Racetrack has fast barrels at low tide, while Outside Corner offers long rides during big swells.
Crowds: Can be busy, especially in peak season.
2. Padang Padang
- Best for: Advanced surfers (Padang Left), Intermediate/Beginner (Baby Padang)
- Wave Type: Left-hand reef break (Padang Left), Beach break (Baby Padang)
- Size: 5-8 feet (big days can reach 12 feet)
- Season: Dry season (June to September)
Details: Known as Bali’s “Pipeline,” Padang Padang is famous for its fast, perfect barrels. The left break is for pros, but Baby Padang is ideal for beginners. The beach is stunning, framed by dramatic rock formations.
3. Keramas (East Coast)
- Best for: Intermediate to Advanced surfers
- Wave Type: Right-hand reef break
- Size: 5-8 feet
- Season: Wet season (November to March)
Details: A favorite among pros, Keramas has fast and hollow waves. It’s known for night surfing events and works best during the wet season.
4. Canggu (Echo Beach, Batu Bolong)
- Best for: Beginners to Intermediate
- Wave Type: Beach and reef breaks
- Size: 3-6 feet
- Season: All year (best in dry season)
Details: Canggu is a surfing hub with multiple breaks. Batu Bolong is great for beginners, while Echo Beach offers punchy reef breaks for intermediates. The area is filled with surf schools and cafes.
5. Balangan (Bukit Peninsula)
- Best for: Intermediate surfers
- Wave Type: Left-hand reef break
- Size: 4-8 feet
- Season: Dry season (April to October)
Details: A long white sand beach with consistent left-hand waves. Best for intermediates at mid-tide, but low tide can be challenging due to the shallow reef.
6. Impossibles (Bukit Peninsula)
- Best for: Advanced surfers
- Wave Type: Long, fast left-hand reef break
- Size: 4-8 feet
- Season: Dry season (May to September)
Details: Known for long, fast rides, Impossibles requires precise timing to navigate the sections. It’s a challenging spot but incredibly rewarding for advanced surfers.
7. Green Bowl
- Best for: Advanced surfers
- Wave Type: Hollow reef break
- Size: 4-6 feet
- Season: Wet season (November to March)
Details: A secluded spot with a steep descent, Green Bowl offers hollow and fast waves. It’s perfect for surfers seeking solitude and challenge.
8. Dreamland
- Best for: Beginners to Intermediate surfers
- Wave Type: Left and right beach break
- Size: 3-5 feet
- Season: All year
Details: Dreamland offers forgiving beach breaks, ideal for beginners, but left-handers get longer and more challenging as the swell grows.
Surf Seasons in Bali
Bali is a year-round surfing destination, but the quality of the waves depends on the season.
- Dry Season (May to September): Best for Bali’s west coast (Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Canggu) with consistent offshore winds and solid swells.
- Wet Season (October to April): The east coast (Keramas, Nusa Dua) has the best waves, with offshore winds cleaning up the surf during this period.
Surfing Tips for Bali
- Rent or Bring Your Own Board?
Renting is easy in Bali, especially at beginner-friendly spots like Kuta and Canggu. Advanced surfers may want to bring their own boards for more serious waves. - Beware of the Reefs
Bali’s best surf spots are reef breaks, which can be shallow and sharp. Always surf at high tide if you’re unfamiliar with the area, and wear reef booties if needed. - Mind the Crowds
Popular spots, especially on the Bukit Peninsula, can get crowded. Follow proper surf etiquette to avoid issues. - Best Time to Avoid Crowds
Visit during the shoulder seasons (April and October) for good waves and fewer crowds.
Conclusion
Bali’s combination of world-class waves, stunning beaches, and warm water makes it one of the top surf destinations on the planet. Whether you’re a beginner or chasing the perfect barrel, Bali has the perfect spot for you. From the legendary Uluwatu to the laid-back vibe of Canggu, the island’s surf culture offers a little bit of everything for all surfers.
