Bali and beaches are almost synonymous in a tourist’s handbook. And it doesn’t come overhyped either. The clear waters and rich marine life make it an ideal location for snorkelling, scuba diving, or just good ol’ lounging under the sun. All of this is enough reason to convince you to make a trip down to Bali, but these beaches have another highlight under its waves that will sell itself – surfing!
Bali beaches are perfect for surfers of all kinds – professional surfers or otherwise. We’ve compiled a list of the best surfing spots in Bali where you can either learn, or test your surfing skills.
1. Kuta Beach
Surfing Level: Beginner
Kuta is probably the most popular city in Bali, and it’s evident from the host of people who make it here throughout the year. Being a party hub, the city is usually frequented by backpackers and surfers. If you’re looking to try your hand at surfing, Kuta beach is ideal for you, that with its gentle tides and small waves. Since the sea bed isn’t sprinkled with shells, you won’t bruise yourself either, even if it’s a fall near the shore.
2. Seminyak Beach
Surfing Level: Beginner, Intermediate
A beach holiday destination that probably needs no introduction, Seminyak is one of Bali’s hot spots for beach clubs, luxury resorts, shopping and restaurants.
Relatively less crowded than Kuta and Legian, Seminyak beach has moderately high waves, making it a good choice for first-time surfers and intermediates.
3. Legian Beach
Surfing Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Legian beach, commonly known as ‘Padma’, is the second most populated beach in Bali after Kuta. Surfing here is quite convenient as the waves are formed by a beach break, which means you don’t have to get on a boat or paddle deep to ride a wave. Waves at Legian beach rise up to 3 feet on average, but on good days, it offers quite a thrill for intermediates as well.
4. Tuban Beach
Surfing Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Fringed by outer reefs, Tuban is perhaps one of the most suitable beaches for beginners. Since the airport runway is just a few kilometres from this beach, the surfing spots here are aptly divided into Airport Lefts and Airport Rights. If you’re a first time surfer, you’ll have a blast surfing the beach break by the shore as the waves break over soft sand. If you’re an intermediate or a professional surfer, you can rent a boat to take you 500m away from the shore. The water here breaks over a flat reef bottom leading to larger waves to test your skills on.
5. Beaches in Canggu
Surfing Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Surfing in the city of Canggu can be unpredictable. Sometimes the waves aren’t gentle enough for beginners, but they offer a great challenge for intermediate and seasons surfers. Canggu has lovely beaches like Echo, Batu Bolong, and Berawa that are great for surfing.
Batu Bolong, with mid-tides and a mostly sandy bottom, is the ideal beach for beginners to try out manoeuvres without fear. Since the waves are relatively slow and fat, get on a longboard and surf away!
Berawa is a mix of beach-breaks and rocky reefs. The waves rise up to 3-8 feet attracting intermediate and advanced surfers.
Echo beach is probably the most popular surfing beach in Bali, and attracts a lot of professional surfers from around the world. This is probably the most tricky beach to surf at owing to rip currents and reefs. If you’re not a professional surfer, consult a guide before you set out to the sea.
Things To Keep In Mind While Surfing-
- The best time to go surfing in South Bali is from April to October. July is said to be the best month. November to March is the wet season, so although you can still surf, the waves can get quite rough.
- Consult a trainer and follow his/her instructions carefully. The waves in Bali are deceptive, some may seem small, but they can have a very strong undercurrent.
- Check the tide forecast before you head out to ensure that you can handle the waves. This will also help you pick the correct time to surf.
- If you’re a beginner, stick to the white waves (the waves that break and hit the shore). Don’t venture too deep unless accompanied by an instructor.
- Wear comfortable swimwear and sunblock, as it can get pretty hot during the day.
