The Ultimate Guide to Bali Surfing: Best Locations for Beginners, Intermediate, Expert Surfers, and Family Surf Vacations

Bali, this Indonesian paradise is not only known for its gorgeous beaches and vibrant culture but also for its world-class surfing spots. With warm tropical waters, consistent swells, and killer breaks, Bali is like a surfer’s dream come true. Whether you’re a total noob trying to catch your first wave or a pro looking for the ultimate thrill, Bali has got you covered. In this epic guide, we’ll dive into the best surf spots in Bali for beginners, intermediates, and expert riders.

 

Best Surf Spots for Beginners

 

Kuta Beach

– Right in the heart of Bali’s tourist hub, Kuta Beach is the perfect place to get your surf on.

– The waves are forgiving, and the sandy bottom makes wiping out a little less painful.

– There are tons of surf schools and rental shops around, so you can grab a board and get schooled by the pros.

 

Best time of year to visit: For beginners that want to catch some rad waves at Kuta Beach and Legian Beach, plan your trip during the dry season, May to September. That’s when the southwest swells are pumping, giving you the perfect conditions to practice and improve.

 

Legian Beach

– Right next to Kuta Beach, Legian Beach is a slightly less crowded option for beginners.

– The waves here are chill, and the sandy bottom makes it a mellow spot to learn the ropes.

– You’ll find surf schools and instructors here too, ready to help you ride like a champ.

 

Canggu

– If you want a more laid-back vibe away from the tourist hustle, Canggu is your spot.

– Echo Beach and Batu Bolong Beach are perfect for beginners, with gentle waves and forgiving conditions.

– There are many surf schools and camps in the area that can hook you up with gear and lessons.

 

Best time of year to visit: Canggu is a year-round surfing hotspot, but for beginners looking for a chilled-out time, the dry season from May to September is the way to go. The waves are smaller, making it easier for you to learn the ropes and ride with confidence.

 

Best Surf Spots for Intermediate Surfers:

Seminyak

– Just north of Legian, Seminyak offers a variety of breaks that are perfect for intermediate riders.

– Double Six Beach and Seminyak Beach serve up consistent waves with left and right-hand breaks.

– You can level up your skills here while soaking up the awesome beach vibes.

 

Best time of year to visit: Intermediate shredders, listen up! The best time to score awesome waves at Seminyak and Berawa is during the dry season from May to September. You’ll find consistent swells and killer winds that’ll take your skills to the next level.

 

Berawa

– North of Canggu, Berawa Beach is a go-to spot for intermediate shredders.

– The waves here are playful and consistent, with both sand and reef breaks.

– Grab a surf lesson or two from the local schools and instructors to take your skills to the next level.

 

Uluwatu

– Uluwatu is legendary. It’s all about the reef breaks and world-class waves for experienced surfers.

– The famous Uluwatu Cave offers long, powerful rides that will leave you stoked.

– Just remember to respect the reef and get some guidance from the locals or surf camps familiar with the area.

 

Best time of year to visit: Uluwatu is where the big boys and girls play, dude. If you’re an intermediate surfer looking for a challenge, head there during the dry season from April to October. That’s when the southwest swells are firing, delivering massive waves and unforgettable rides. Uluwatu is where the big boys and girls play, dude. If you’re an intermediate surfer looking for a challenge, head there during the dry season from April to October. That’s when the southwest swells are firing, delivering massive waves and unforgettable rides.

 

Best Surf Spots for Expert Surfers

 

Padang Padang

– Brace yourself for the “Balinese Pipeline” at Padang Padang, one of the most famous and challenging breaks in Bali.

– This reef break dishes out hollow, barreling waves that are made for pro surfers.

– You might even catch the Rip Curl Cup competition here, where the best surfers in the world gather to show off their skills.

 

Best time of year to visit: Expert riders, this one’s for you! For mind-blowing surf at Padang Padang, hit it up during the dry season from May to September. That’s when you’ll encounter the gnarly hollow barrels that will test your surf skills.

Keramas:

– On Bali’s east coast, Keramas is all about fast and powerful right-hand reef breaks.

– If you’re an expert rider looking to carve deep barrels and pull off sick maneuvers, this is your spot.

– The consistent swells and challenging conditions will give you the adrenaline rush you crave

 

Best time of year to visit: Keramas is all about fast and powerful waves, perfect for expert surfers looking to show off their moves. To experience the sickest rides, plan your trip during the dry season, May to September. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

 

Balian

– Over on the west coast, Balian is a hidden gem for advanced surfers seeking a more secluded and challenging experience.

– The left-hand reef breaks here are powerful and uncrowded.

– Surround yourself with lush landscapes and a laid-back vibe while you ride the waves of Balian.

 

Best time of year to visit: Balian is a hidden gem for expert surfers craving a challenge. To tackle the beastly left-hand reef breaks, head there during the dry season from May to September. That’s when you’ll find consistent swells and the uncrowded waves you’re after.

 

Family Surf Vacations in Bali

If you’re looking for family-friendly surfing spots and awesome surf lessons in Bali, I got you covered. Check out these places:

 

Kuta Beach

– Kuta Beach is not only great for beginners but also perfect for family surf sessions. The waves here are usually mellow, making it a safe and fun spot for everyone in the fam to give surfing a go.

– You’ll find plenty of surf schools along the beach that offer lessons for all ages, from kids to adults. Get the whole crew together and ride those waves!

 

Best time of year to visit: For beginners that want to catch some rad waves at Kuta Beach and Legian Beach, plan your trip during the dry season, May to September. That’s when the southwest swells are pumping, giving you the perfect conditions to practice and improve.

 

Legian Beach

– Right next to Kuta, Legian Beach is another family-friendly option. The waves are forgiving, and the sandy bottom makes wiping out less of a bummer, especially for the little ones.

– There are awesome surf schools around that specialize in teaching kids, so they can learn the basics and have a blast in the water.

 

Batu Bolong Beach, Canggu

– Canggu is not only a rad surf spot but also family-friendly. Batu Bolong Beach in Canggu offers smaller, more manageable waves that are perfect for kids and beginners.

– You’ll find surf schools that offer lessons tailored specifically for families. It’s a great opportunity for some quality bonding time while catching waves together.

 

Best time of year to visit: Canggu is a year-round surfing hotspot, but for beginners looking for a chilled-out time, the dry season from May to September is the way to go. The waves are smaller, making it easier for you to learn the ropes and ride with confidence.

 

Balangan Beach

– Balangan Beach, located on the Bukit Peninsula, is another fantastic spot for family-friendly surfing. The waves here are usually gentle and provide an environment perfect for kids and beginners.

– Several surf schools in the area offer lessons for families, ensuring that everyone has a blast while learning to surf.

 

Green Bowl Beach

– Green Bowl Beach, tucked away in the southern part of Bali, offers a serene and family-friendly surfing experience. The waves here are generally small and great for beginners, including the littles in your crew.

– While there aren’t as many as in other spots, you’ll still find surf schools nearby that offer family-friendly lessons and guidance.

 

With these family-friendly surf spots and surf lessons, everyone will surely have a blast riding the waves together in Bali!

 

Bali is the ultimate paradise for surfers, offering epic waves and a killer surf culture. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or pro, there’s a wave waiting for you in Bali. So grab your board, catch some barrels, and experience the pure stoke that comes with riding the waves in this tropical paradise. Bali is calling, my friend. Get out there and shred those waves!