The Ultimate Bali Surf Guide: Waves for Everyone, from Beginner to Expert
Bali. Just saying the name transports any surfer's mind to a paradise of warm water, exotic culture, and, above all, perfect waves. The "Island of the Gods" isn't just a trendy destination; it's the global epicenter of surfing, a place where every single day, you can find a wave that fits your level and your spirit for adventure.
But with fame come questions: Is Bali right for me if I'm a beginner? What are the best spots? When is the best time to go? If you're planning a surf trip to Bali, or just dreaming of one, this guide is for you. We've compiled everything you need to know so your only worry will be putting on your rash guard and running to the ocean.
Why is Bali a Surfer's Paradise?
The answer is simple: variety and consistency. Thanks to its prime location in the Indian Ocean, Bali receives constant swell all year round. Unlike other destinations, you're not dependent on a short season. Furthermore, the island offers two coastlines with opposite conditions, meaning there's almost always a spot working somewhere.
Add to that an incredible tourist infrastructure, delicious and affordable food, and a captivating spiritual culture. The result is the perfect surf destination.
The Best Surf Spots in Bali (Broken Down by Level)
Navigating the sheer number of waves in Bali can be overwhelming. We've broken it down for you so you can get straight to the good stuff.
For Beginners: Your First Wave Awaits
If you're looking to learn to surf in Bali, you've come to the right place. The island has soft, safe sand-bottom breaks (beach breaks), ideal for getting to your feet for the first time.
Kuta / Legian / Seminyak
The mecca for beginners. These are miles of sandy beach, which makes it very safe.
The Wave: Mostly whitewater and gentle, reformed waves, perfect for learning to stand up without fear. It's a very forgiving wave that will give you plenty of opportunities.
FETCH SURF COACH TIP
The best time is on a mid-tide pushing to high, as on a low tide the wave can be fast and close out. Get up early to avoid the wind and crowds.
Watch out for Currents! Kuta has currents that can pull you down the beach without you realizing it. Pick a landmark on the shore (an umbrella, a building) and keep an eye on it so you don't drift too far.
The Common Mistake: Looking at your feet. As soon as you feel the board start to glide, look up and towards the beach. Your body will follow your gaze. It’s the secret to keeping your balance!
Canggu - Batu Bolong
The trendiest spot. Known for its long, slow waves, perfect for longboards and for beginners who are already standing up. The vibe is incredible, with cafes and bars right on the beach. It's the ideal next step after Kuta.
Want a head start in Bali? Start training your pop-up and paddling from home. Discover our online surf coaching program and arrive ready to catch green waves from day one.
For Intermediates: Perfecting Your Line
Already mastered your paddling, pop-up with ease, and are starting to turn? Bali is your playground.
Balangan
One of the longest and fastest lefts in Bali, ideal for polishing your style.
The Wave: It's a perfect, fast wall. This isn't a wave for vertical turns, but for drawing a clean line and practicing your speed.
FETCH SURF COACH TIP
Knowing the tide here is key. High tide is ideal and safe for all levels (even supervised beginners). At mid tide, it gets faster, perfect for intermediates and advanced surfers. At low tide, the reef is very exposed and it's only for advanced riders seeking speed.
Dreamland
A powerful and fun wave that breaks over sand and reef. It offers sections for maneuvers and even small barrels on the right days.
Padang Padang - Baby Padang
To the right of the world-famous main wave, you'll find "Baby Padang." It's a gentle, soft wave, both a right and a left, that breaks over a deep reef, making it very safe. It's the perfect spot for your first experience on the Bukit peninsula.
For Experts: The Bukit Sanctuary
If you're looking for world-class waves, the Bukit Peninsula is your destination. This is where Bali earned its legendary status.
Uluwatu
The crown jewel. It's not one wave, but a perfect wave complex.
The Wave: It's divided into several peaks: The Peak, Racetracks, Temples, and Secrets. The variety is endless.
FETCH SURF COACH TIP
High Tide: Perfect for intermediates and advanced surfers on all peaks, especially Temples and Main Peak which come alive with more water.
Mid Tide: Still ideal for intermediates and advanced on all peaks, with faster sections.
Low Tide: Be careful here! With waves up to 3ft (1 meter), Racetracks and Secrets are for intermediate-advanced riders. Any bigger, and it's advanced-only territory due to the exposed reef.
Padang Padang
The "Balinese Pipeline."
The Wave: A short, hollow, and extremely powerful left-hand barrel that breaks over a sharp reef.
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High Tide: The "safest" option. Suitable for experienced intermediates and advanced surfers.
Mid Tide: The wave gets hollower and faster. Advanced only.
Low Tide: Becomes a wave for "kamikazes" only. The take-off is critical and the reef is inches away. Maximum respect required.
Bingin
The barrel rider's paradise.
The Wave: A short, perfect left that offers an incredibly round and technical tube.
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High Tide: Accessible for intermediates and advanced, the wave is softer.
Mid Tide: The magic begins. Ideal for intermediates and advanced surfers looking for barrels.
Low Tide: The barrel becomes flawless but very technical. Only for advanced surfers who have mastered the take-off under the lip.
Impossibles
The name says it all.
The Wave: A very long and extremely fast left-hander that peels across the reef.
FETCH SURF COACH TIP
High Tide: The best time for intermediate surfers; the wave is more forgiving.
Mid and Low Tide: The speed increases exponentially. This is for intermediate-advanced riders looking to train their line and speed.
When is the Best Time to Surf in Bali?
This is the million-dollar question. The answer depends on which coast you want to surf.
Dry Season (April - October): This is the peak surf season. The south swell is consistent, and trade winds blow offshore on the west coast. It's the best time for the legendary spots on the Bukit Peninsula (Uluwatu, Padang Padang, etc.).
Wet Season (November - March): The wind switches and blows offshore on the east coast. Spots like Keramas, Sanur, or Nusa Dua take center stage, offering world-class waves.
The bottom line is... it's always surf season in Bali!
The Smart Way to Surf Bali: Why a Surf Camp?
You could come to Bali on your own, rent a scooter, a board, and dive into the adventure. And it would be great. But if you truly want to maximize your time, improve your surfing, and have an unforgettable experience, a Bali surf camp is undoubtedly the best option.
Local Knowledge: Our guides will take you to the best wave of the day based on your level and the conditions, saving you time and frustration.
Personalized Coaching: Instead of getting stuck in a rut, you'll receive surf lessons with video analysis and technique correction.
Logistics Solved (The 360° Experience): Your only mission is to surf. We handle the rest.
Airport Transfers: We pick you up and drop you off.
Quality Accommodation: Book your accommodation directly with us.
Guaranteed Mobility: We help you rent a scooter with a surf rack.
Exclusive Local Guides: You'll receive our guide to healthy and affordable restaurants and a complete leisure guide.
Community: You'll meet other surfers from all over the world.
Your Adventure Starts Now: Train With Me in Bali
Reading guides is one thing, but living it is another. If you're ready to stop dreaming about Bali's waves and start riding them, I invite you to join us.
My surf camp in Bali is the complete experience. We offer coaching + accommodation packages so you have everything covered. It's an immersive training center designed to take your surfing to the next level, no matter where you're starting from.
Spots are limited to ensure personal, high-quality attention. Are you ready for the surf trip of a lifetime?
