I had the awesomest surfing adventure in Bali! Here are my 10 go-to surf spots that you should try too!
I still remember the thrill of my first wave in Bali, the warm sun on my back, and the salty breeze in my hair as I paddled into the turquoise waters. It was a mix of excitement and nerves, but I was hooked once I caught that wave!
Since then, I’ve repeatedly returned, exploring hidden surf spots that have become my go-to places for the perfect ride. I’ve compiled a list of my top 10 surf spots that offer everything from gentle waves for beginners to thrilling breaks for the more experienced.
Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on these incredible locations—read on to find your next surfing adventure!
1. Uluwatu
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Website: http://www.badungtourism.com/
Address: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Uluwatu is a stunning little gem on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula. It was one of the first reef breaks discovered in the ’70s and played a massive role in putting Bali on the surfing map.
There are five main breaks here: The Peak, Racetrack, Outside Corner, Temples, and The Bombie. The Peak consistently has left-hand waves, perfect when the tide is right.
If you’re up for something thrilling, Racetrack gives you those barrel opportunities—but you’ll want to hit it at low tide for the best rides. Then there’s Outside Corner, which is definitely for experienced surfers with powerful waves and a shallow reef.
And let’s not forget The Bombie—it’s known for some of the biggest waves in Indonesia, but you need a solid swell for it to shine. Uluwatu can handle anything from chest-high waves to jaw-dropping 30 feet for intermediate to expert surfers.
| Pro tip: Time your surf sessions according to the tides. Mid-tide is optimal for most breaks at Uluwatu as it allows more sections of the reef to work well and helps spread out the crowd. |
2. Canggu
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Website: http://www.badungtourism.com/
Address: Canggu, Kuta Utara, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
If you’re into surfing or just looking for a laid-back beach vibe, you’ve got to check out Canggu. Just picture this: black sand beaches, lush rice paddies, and a chill atmosphere that captures Bali’s spirit.
If you’re just starting, Batu Bolong Beach is your spot. It has gentle, slow-breaking waves that make it easy to learn. You can enjoy the thrill of catching your first wave without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, Berawa Beach has a nice mix of fun waves for beginners and intermediates. If you’re an experienced surfer, you might want to head to Echo Beach. It’s got some powerful reef breaks for the pros.
The waves there can get going—sometimes reaching over six feet! And if you’re looking for a quieter spot to surf, Pererenan Beach is a gem. It’s less crowded and has some challenging waves that keep you on your toes.
| Pro tip: Arrive early at popular surf spots like Batu Bolong or Echo Beach, especially during peak season. These beaches can get crowded quickly as surfers flock to catch the morning swells. |
3. Keramas
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Address: Pantai Keramas St No.80551, Keramas, Blahbatuh, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia
There’s this amazing spot on Bali’s eastern coast called Keramas. With about 1.8 km of shoreline framed by gorgeous rice fields, it has a striking black sand beach that feels unique. The surf culture there is vibrant.
Keramas actually translates to “Shampoo,” which is a nod to that exhilarating feeling when you get barreled. This spot has made a name for itself, even hosting World Surf League competitions!
If you’re into surfing, you’ll appreciate that Keramas is mostly known for its heavy right-hand waves breaking over a shallow reef. These waves are powerful and consistent, and they’re perfect if you’ve got some experience under your belt.
The best conditions come when the swell is rolling in from the south, and the wind is coming in from the northwest. I’ve seen waves ranging from waist-high to even triple overhead during the peak season—especially in the dry months.
| Pro tip: If you’re keen to catch the best waves, aim for high tide, particularly in the early morning. That’s when it’s less crowded and the waves are cleanest. Just a heads up, though—be ready for some strong currents and a rocky bottom. |
4. Kuta Beach
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Website: http://kutabeachbalii.com/
Address: Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
In the 1930s, an American artist named Bob Koke rolled into town and introduced the surfing scene to Bali. By the 1980s, Kuta was already recognized as one of the best beach breaks in the world and surfers from everywhere.
You’ve got this exposed beach break that consistently delivers perfect surf, especially during the dry season from May to October. The magic happens when the southwest swell meets those lovely offshore winds from the east-northeast.
The Halfway surf spot is a must-try if you’re just starting. There’s this nice rolling whitewater for beginners, but on bigger days, it also throws down some challenges for the more advanced surfers,
| Pro tip: Always be mindful of local surfers. While catching up in the excitement of catching waves alongside others is easy, respecting local surf etiquette is crucial. This means waiting your turn at the peak and being aware of your surroundings. |
5. Bingin Beach
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Website: http://www.binginbeach.com/
Address: 54V7+V72, Jl. Pantai Bingin, Pecatu, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Bingin Beach is famous for its left-hand reef break, and let me tell you—the waves here are nothing short of amazing. Surfers from all over the world flock to this spot just to ride those perfect barrels.
The beach has the softest white sand and those crystal-clear waters you dream about. You’ve got these towering limestone cliffs framing the beach, making it look like a postcard picture you want to hang on your wall.
The waves can get hollow and fast—addictive if you know how to handle them. The dry season from May to September is prime time. That’s when the swells come in from the southwest, bringing waves ranging from 3 to 8 feet.
If you’re just a beginner, don’t sweat it. When the swell is smaller (1-3 feet), it’s the perfect playground for learning, with plenty of surf schools around to help you get started.
| Pro tip: Remember to bring reef shoes, as they can protect your feet from cuts while you navigate the rocky areas! |
6. Medewi
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Website: http://www.jembranakab.go.id/
Address: Jl. Pantai Medewi, Medewi, Kec. Pekutatan, Kabupaten Jembrana, Bali, Indonesia
Medewi Beach has the longest wave in Bali. Since the surfing scene started in Indonesia in the 1970s, Medewi has been a surfing hotspot. What I love about Medewi is its laid-back vibe. You get that authentic Balinese charm here.
The ocean is pleasantly warm, averaging around 30°C all year round. The waves are gentle yet fun, making it great for beginners and longboarders. The prime time to catch waves is from March to November, with the best months between June and September.
If you’re more experienced, don’t worry. Some sections pick up the pace when the swells get bigger. Watch out for the rocky bottom and the occasional crowd; good days can bring out a few more surfers.
| Pro tip: Consider staying overnight to fully embrace the local vibe—this way, you can explore nearby surf spots like Balian Beach or simply relax and enjoy the slower pace of life in this charming village. |
7. Nusa Dua
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Website: http://www.badungtourism.com/
Address: Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Contact details: +623619009270
Nusa Dua in Bali is like this little slice of heaven on the southern coast. In the mid-2010s, it started to gain some serious attention. Especially during the wet season, from December to March, you can find some of the most reliable waves around.
If you’re into the thrill of it all, the main breaks like Geger Right are perfect. Those powerful, steep takeoffs can get your heart racing, and if conditions are right, you might find yourself riding a nice tube section.
Then there’s Nikko Beach, where the right-handers can barrel beautifully at mid to high tide. And if you’re just starting Mushroom Secret, it has a softer wave that’s friendly enough for beginners when the conditions cooperate.
| Pro tip: Consider hiring a local boat (jekung) to take you to the breaks. The waves are about 800 meters offshore, so having someone familiar with the area can enhance your experience. |
8. Balangan Beach
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Address: South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Balangan Beach is a long, gorgeous stretch of palm-fringed white sand with crystal-clear waters that beckons you to dive in. It’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists, but the vibe here is chill compared to Uluwatu and Seminyak.
The main wave breaks left off this rocky outcrop, and let me tell you, the rides can get pretty wild, especially when the swells pick up between March and November.
Those waves can reach up to 12 feet! But don’t worry if you’re a beginner; on smaller days, the inside waves are perfect for getting your feet wet and feeling the rush.
However, a little heads-up: be careful of those sharp coral reefs, and if you’re going during peak hours, it can get a bit crowded. You want to keep an eye on your surroundings!
| Pro tip: Don’t hesitate to engage with local surf instructors—many are lifelong residents who know the tides and conditions intimately, ensuring you get the most out of your surf session while keeping safety in mind. |
9. Padang Padang
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Address: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Padang Padang is often called the “Balinese Pipeline.” You must navigate a narrow staircase to reach the beach, adding to the sense of adventure. When you finally arrive, you’re greeted by a cove that feels like something from a movie.
Speaking of movies, did you know Padang Padang became famous thanks to the 1977 surf film Free Ride? The film showcased the incredible waves and put this spot on the map for surfers worldwide.
Today, it’s a hub for all kinds of surfers. The real star is the Padang Padang Left. If you’re an experienced surfer, you’ll love this steep, hollow reef break. It can produce powerful barrels, and the waves here can reach up to 10 feet high!
You’ll want to hit it at mid to high tide when the swell is coming from the west or southwest—trust me, it’s a wild ride. But if you’re just starting, don’t worry! There’s also Padang Padang Right, affectionately known as Baby Padang.
| Pro tip: Be mindful of local surf etiquette; respect the lineup and always be aware of your surroundings, especially given the sharp reefs that can pose hazards if you’re not careful. |
10. Old Mans
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Address: Jl. Pura Dalem, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia
Operating hours: 6 AM–6 PM
Old Man’s is tucked away in the super lively area of Canggu, and honestly, it feels like a little slice of paradise. What I love about Old Man’s is how it welcomes you. The reef break is forgiving, offering both lefts and rights.
This place is a dream if you’re just transitioning from beginner to intermediate. The waves are generally gentle gentler. It is easier to practice paddling and all that good stuff without feeling overwhelmed.
When I go, I always check the swell size first. The sweet spot is usually between 3 to 8 feet, especially when the swell comes from the southwest. And if you get those northeast winds, you’re in for a treat!
The lefts are these lovely long rides that just keep going, while the right can throw you into a little barrel that’s over before you know it. My best sessions happen during low to mid-tides—and the waves are more manageable.
| Pro tip: Grabbing a morning coffee at one of the local cafes while watching the sunrise over the ocean is an unforgettable way to start your day! Watch other surfers around you; this spot can get busy, especially on weekends. |