Looking for the best surf spots in Bali?
In this article, I will walk you through my top recommendations on the best place to shred.
Warm sunny weather, good value for accommodation, not to mention cheap food and drinks, Bali is every surfer’s definition of paradise. With over 60 different breaks to choose from, all varying in difficulty level, Bali has some of the best surf spots that is available all year round.
We originally planned to travel around the entire of Indonesia for a month. We started our trip in Bali which turned out to be a big mistake as we loved it so much! Because we enjoyed surfing the different beach breaks, before we knew it, a month was over!
Although we ended up traveling the rest of Java and Sumatra over the next two months, Bali is home to some of the gnarliest surf spots that we have seen.
Since then, we’ve returned to Bali multiple times, spending months at a time surfing.
To help guide you where to go, here is our list of the best surf spots in Bali- in no particular order!
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Surf Camps in Bali
Before I get into the best surf spots, if you’re serious about improving your skills, we recommend signing up for a surf camp so you can make the most out of your time there. Most surf camps come as a package that includes accommodation, surf lessons, surf rental and more.
Some camps even offer activities like yoga (or massages) after a full day of surfing.
Here are a few surf camps that we recommend while in Bali.
| Surf Camp | Location | Length | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bali Yoga Retreat | Nusa Lembongan, Bali, Indonesia | 7 Days | View Prices |
| Amazing Surf Camp and Yoga Retreat Bali | Canggu, Bali, Indonesia | 3 Days | View Prices |
| Pelan Pelan Bali Retreat | Canggu, Bali, Indonesia | 15 Days | View Prices |
| Mondo Lifestyle Resort | Canggu, Bali, Indonesia | 8 Days | View Prices |
| Fantastic Surf Camp | Kuta, Bali, Indonesia | 7 Days | View Prices |
| GREEN WAVE SURF Guiding Camp | Medewi, Bali, Indonesia | 8 Days | View Prices |
| "Learn to Surf" Camp | Gili Trawangan, Indonesia | 5 Days | View Prices |
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1. Uluwatu, Bali
Before I proceed, please take caution that this spot is for intermediate-expert surfers only. Rightly so as the breaks in Uluwatu are very technical and advanced.
During the monsoon seasons, you can get swells as high as 15 feet. Here, you can catch a wave while looking up at the ancient Hindu shrine in the stunning Uluwatu temple.
To reach the reef, you must paddle through the Uluwatu beach cave which can have very strong currents. As this spot is quite popular, it can also be quite crowded.
Not to fret as there are literally SO many beaches in Uluwatu so you have multiple areas that you can choose from.
As for Uluwatu break itself, you have five different swells to choose from once in the area, namely The Racetrack, The Peak, Temples, Outside Corner and the Bombie.
Insider Tip: Make sure you check out Single Fin Bar for fun events during Sundays! It is definitely worth going to for a night out. For more tips, check out our Uluwatu Bali travel guide which we wrote after we lived there for 5 months!
2. Padang Padang, Bali
Home to the yearly Rip Curl Cup, Padang Padang is known for its long tube rides, as well as its sharp reef bottoms. Known as the Balinese Pipeline, this surf spot is definitely not for beginners when the waves are big. It has a gnarly left hand wave that can range from about 5-12 ft.
The reef here can get pretty sharp as well so booties might be a good option. There is however, a gentle beach break on the right side which can accommodate beginners.
Padang Padang is located between Bingin and Uluwatu and is a popular spot for surfers-making it a little bit crowded at times.
🚨 Want to improve your surfing skills? Check out our guide to the best surfing camps in Bali!
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3. Medewi – Possibly the longest left hand wave in Bali!
Medewi is about a 1.5-2 hour drive from Denpasar which is why you won’t find it as crowded as the rest of the spots in Bali. It has a beautiful rocky beach is known for its long left hander waves.
We went there on a day trip and enjoyed our time. The reef there can be pretty sharp so renting bootings is advisable-trust me, I learned the hard way! Sadly, my mini surf trip there ended with lots of reef cuts-regardless if I had booties.
Tom on the other hand, loved the waves in Medewi. The beach, peaceful vibe and surf point makes this place ideal for day trips!
Surf Camps in Medewi
4. Green Bowl
This not so “secret” surf spot located on the Bukit Peninsula is aptly named Green Bowl due to its bowl shaped ocean floor which is visible during low tide. The water reflects its green surroundings and is truly a sight to see.
Because this spot isn’t easily accessible (i.e. hundreds of concrete steps just to get to the beach), you won’t see a lot of crowds here. It is also often called Green Bali or Green Balls.
The reason behind the latter is beyond me! The waves here are recommended to advanced surfers when the waves are big due to strong rips and currents. The beach however is stunning and secluded- specially during weekdays!
5. Keramas – Considered one of Bali’s best waves!
Nowadays, Keramas break is becoming extremely popular. This break makes fast and hollow right handers that average about 5 ft.
This place is often home to competitions for Billabong and Oakley as it is often considered one of Bali’s best waves.
We’ve never done it but we’ve heard you can also take part in night surfing here through Komune Resort and Beach Club! The black sandy beach goes on for 10 miles, offering fantastic views of the sunset in the afternoon.
6. Balangan Beach
Situated within walking distance from the built up Dreamland in Uluwatu, this beautiful white sand beach offers fun left handers that are perfect for intermediate surfers. This is currently Tom’s home break as our house is only a 5 minute ride from here.
Although Balangan beach looks peaceful and harmless, there is a sharp coral reef which is why surfers here are often recommended to use booties.
The white sand beach stretches for 200 meters making it an idyllic location to relax and spend the day. They have plenty of local warungs along the coastline where you can get a basic meal and a cold coconut in between sessions.
7. Impossibles
Nowadays, more experienced riders go to impossibles to challenge themselves as they face intimidating waves. It also didn’t help that before, in order to access this waves, you had to scale down cliffs.
Located near Padang Padang, this you can enjoy the waves while gazing at some beautiful rock formations.
Under perfect conditions, you can ride all the way to Bingin, riding a wave for almost a mile! The waves often average 3-5ft high and are often very fast.
8. Suluban
This spot is located about 5 minutes from Padang Padang and Uluwatu, Suluban is a stunning but narrow beach which you can reach by walking through a cave. The term Suluban means crouch under in Balinese as the crevice like opening can be somewhat treacherous.
The powerful and long swells make it ideal for surfers. As it’s close to Uluwatu, it can also reach Uluwatu like swells and barrels making it a no go for beginners. The white sand beach and cliffs make a stunning background as you surf.
9. Nusa Dua
Located in the resort island, Nusa Dua is a great place to catch swells during the onshore winds. From there, you can reach Mushroom Rock and Black Rock. Black rock has mellower waves which can be beginner friendly depending on the conditions.
Close-by is Greger beach which is accessible only by boat as the break is quite far off. The currents here can be quite strong so be cautious when paddling back. The resort itself is pretty stunning and is can be easily visited by paying a fee.
10. Canggu
We fell in love with this place and ended up renting a room here for a month. Our agenda? Surf and work all day! Canggu has 3 different breaks which you can find in Batu Bolong, Echo Beach, and Berawa Beach.
Located just 10 kilometers of Denpasar town, Canggu is easily accessible and is a better option than over crowded Kuta Beach.
As a surf spot, Canggu has a little bit of everything for everyone. Beginner rolling waves all the way to advanced barrels for experts. Be a bit weary as the reef can be a bit sharp during low tide.
Surf Camps in Canggu
- Mondo Lifestyle Resort: 8 Day Bestseller Yoga and Surf Holiday
- Pelan Pelan Bali Retreat: 15 Day Surf and Yoga Holiday
- 3 Day Surf and Stay Yoga with Mojo Surf Camp
Best Time to Go Surfing in Bali
The best time to go surfing in Bali is during the dry season, which typically spans from April to September.
During this period, the island experiences consistent swells, offshore winds, and favorable weather conditions, making it a prime destination for surfers of all skill levels.
The Indian Ocean generates world-class waves that attract surfers from around the globe, and Bali’s premier surf spots, such as Uluwatu, Kuta, and Canggu, boast crystal-clear waters, warm temperatures, and a vibrant surfing community.
Additionally, the dry season offers visitors more predictable weather and fewer rain-induced disruptions, ensuring an optimal surfing experience that merges thrilling rides with the idyllic backdrop of Bali’s stunning coastlines.
Although the breaks somewhat terrified me, Tom was having the time of his life! We definitely recommend hitting up some of these spots while you’re there.
Wishing you all awesome rides as you surf through some of the best surf spots in Bali.
Want to read more about Indonesia? Check out the articles below
- What to Eat in Indonesia
- Indonesia Travel Tips
- Indonesia vs. Thailand
- Surfing in Lombok
- Facts about Bali
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very useful information. a very beautiful place and interesting to visit.
Thank you! ^-^
I haven’t surfed in Bali, but I was there for a month last summer. It seemed like a great place to learn. I mean, the waves were insane!