Indonesia is the biggest paradise on earth for surfing. And I say this with complete confidence! From the smallest to the most significant waves, the perfection is incredible, and it’s no wonder that every year, thousands and thousands of surfers make their way to those islands on the Indic ocean.
But if you’re starting out in this sport, is Indonesia the best destination to go to? Completely! There are waves for all levels on every island, from Java to the Mentawai.
But if this is your first venture into these waters, I suggest a trip to Bali.
Yes, it’s the most touristy island of all, and it currently deals with a pollution problem, but the island is super tourist-friendly, and there are several surf spots in Bali for beginners. Want to know more about them?
1. Kuta Beach
Let’s start with the quintessential Bali beach for beginners. Kuta Beach is a stone’s throw from the town center and, for its simple access and sandy bottom, is the best surf spot for beginners.
The sandbar is very long, and the waves easier. But avoid low tide, since they close more and don’t allow you to enjoy it so much.
Along the beach, sellers and longboard hire abound. Perfect for those who are learning or just want to catch one or two waves in this classic Balinese spot.
2. Canggu
Canggu has recently become one of the most sought after locations in Bali. Visitors are driven there by trendy cafes and restaurants, a relaxed pace of life and, of course, the waves.
When I was there, I surfed in a river mouth, with tougher waves and lots of surfers in the water. Most of them are foreigners, who choose Canggu to live, and know so well what they’re doing.
So my advice is to start with the sandbar area in Eco Beach, the best-known surf spot around there. Another excellent place to try surfing if you’re a beginner is Batu Bolong since the waves here are “fatter” and not so aggressive.
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Click to book3. Dreamland
When I started to go to Indonesia to surf, this was one of my favorites surf spots in Bali, as it’s partly sandy bottom, which makes it easier to get in and out of the water.
Today, Dreamland is a carnival! Local visitors flock to the water’s edge to take a selfie, but also newlywed couples. You’ll see grooms — mostly Asians — fully dressed in wedding clothes, accompanied by large film crews capturing images for posterity. Such a scene is mainly due to the proximity of the large luxury resorts.
As for the surf zone, it is vast and gives surfers a chance to spread across various spots. But be careful with those who are learning. They often get scared and lose their boards, clueless if they can hit anyone.
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Booking.com4. Bingin
I’ve said it before: Bingin is my go-to place in Bali. Usually, it’s on the slope of this beach that I stay when I’m visiting the island. After all, there’s nothing like first love!
The wave is demanding, and the crowd in the water very knowledgeable. So you have to know what you’re doing if you try to surf it to the left.
But for those still learning, wait for the high tide and catch the wave to the right. You can always take advantage of its reforms and ride it almost to the sand.
5. Padang-Padang
Remember “Eat, Pray, Love” with Julia Roberts? In the final part of the movie, when the main characters meet at a boat dock for the “happily ever after,” that beach is Padang-Padang.
The dock doesn’t exist and was placed there for filming purposes only. But you can find here two amazing waves that divide surfer’s ability. On the left side of the beach breaks the hardest one, where you may well hurt yourself. But, on the right side, breaks a much more fun and straightforward wave that will make the trip well worth it.
And if you’re feeling confident…
Uluwatu
Uluwatu is one of Bali’s best-known waves, and all surfers want to go there.
Try your luck only if you are already comfortable with your surf and the rocks.
You’ll have to go down a large slope until you reach the cave entrance that takes you into the water. The idea is to go at half tides because it’s easier. If it’s too low, it’s more likely you can hit the coral, and at high tide water usually invades the cave. Anyway, an adventure!
But it’s well worth it as it’s one of the best waves on the whole island.
If you are learning and still want to cross it off your list, choose to go out with one of the local surf teachers.
| Tip
🍸 For more relaxed pastime visit the breathtaking spots in Uluwatu during private bar hopping experience
Find the best beaches for beginner surfers in the map
I won’t fool you into assuming that catching waves in Bali is easy… it’s not! If you are just starting out, I suggest you take some classes with local surfers. Many Indonesian surfers teach surf lessons and can help you catch some waves.
If you are already a regular surfer, observe the Indonesian surfers. They know precisely where to position themselves in the water. Just do what they do, but remember, you are in their country, so respect the locals.
Now, you! Have you ever thought about surfing? And if you’re already a surfer, is Indonesia on the travel plans? Share your thoughts in the comments box below, and if you have any questions, ask away!
Surf Spots In Bali For Beginners
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24 COMMENTS
Tami
4 years agoHow funny that they built a dock at Padang-Padang just for a movie and didn’t leave it there for others to enjoy! So many beautiful beaches! I don’t surf but this reminds me of when we took our children for a beginning surfing lesson at Waikiki. Good times!
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHORHi Tami! Would love to try to surf Hawaii one day. I guess longboarding in Waikiki will be my thing since I don’t think I’ll have the skills to try more hardcore waves. Maybe you can give me some pointers when I go there. 😉
Jenn and Ed Coleman
4 years agoBingin looks like my kind of place. I know it’s cheating, but I love catching a broken wave and waiting for it to reform. You never have to worry about your bottom turn or getting tumbled when drop in too late.
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHOREheheh that’s sometimes my trick too! Especially if the waves are bigger 😉 But it doesn’t matter how you catch the wave, as long as you have fun. That’s the whole point of the sport. Happy travels!
Eric Gamble
4 years agoSo I am still on the fence if I want to try surfing. I have been trying to kiteboard everywhere I go but basic surfing doesn’t excite me much which is weird.
But with that said, it looks like of all the surf spots in Bali, Kuta Beach or Canggu seem the coolest to me in my basic opinion. Perhaps Canggu intrigues me because you said you can hit a river mouth and being from New Orleans, I have always dreamed of kind of surfin the Mighty Mississippi Delta.
It does sound like most of these places are pretty slammed with cheeky tourists. But I don’t think that would bother me too much.
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHORHi Eric! You should give it a try. Since you already do Kiteboard, you won’t be a complete stranger on handling a board. As for the river mouth, I was a very small river, anything like the Mississipi Delta! 🙂 But that does sound like a great adventure.
Regarding the tourist scene in Bali, it can be quite challenging sometimes, but, unfortunately, I don’t think is going to be any better in the future.
Elaine Masters
4 years agoI hadn’t thought of Bali for surfing but then I prefer spending time under the waves, diving. I do enjoy watching surfers and would go to the extreme beach Uluwatu to admire the pros.
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHORDiving sounds like a pretty good alternative for me 😉 And the sea in that part of the world is full of life and wonders. It must be heavenly!
Indrani
4 years agoBali is indeed a heaven for surfers. I have been to 2 of these beaches but did not indulge in surfing. I must try next time I am there. Great pics.
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHORThank you so much, Indrani. Hope you get to stand up on a surfboard in your next trip to the island 😉
Renata
4 years agoAlthough I’m not surfing, I did enjoy the beaches in Bali very much. Especially the north coast from where I went snorkelling – some of the best snorkelling of my life. So obviously, Bali has some wonderful water activity for everyone 😉
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHORSo true, Renata. Surfing is just one of the many activities you can go for in the beautiful waters of Bali Happy travels!
Claudia
4 years agoI would love to visit Bali and Indonesia, though I’m hesitant to try surfing again. It’s harder than it looks, and last time I burned the soles of my feet, which was excruciating. Still, your photos of the surf and waves at Canggu and Dreamland are tempting! Maybe I’ll give another go…
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHORHi, Claudia. So sad that you had a first bad experience 🙁 I always recommend if it’s the first try to begin on a sand bottom beach and with a teacher, so you don’t get hurt. Maybe one day you feel comfortable to give it another go.
Nicole LaBarge
4 years agoWhat a great list of beaches in Bali. ANd I’m glad you pointed out the best ones for beginner surfers. Uluwatu looks like my type of beach for sure.
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHORIt is beautiful. Even if you don’t surf and just want to hang out in the sun or soak your feet. Happy travels!
Kamree
4 years agoBali is absolutely stunning, the beaches alone are breathtaking! Being able to surf the waves there would be an incredible experience, I will have to learn soon so i can experience it for myself! xo – Kam
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHORHi Kam! It’s a really fun experience. You should try it, even if just one time. Being in the ocean is always soooo good. 🙂 Happy travels!
sherianne
4 years agoThese images are gorgeous. Padang-Padang.looks like a popular place. Would be fun to watch everyone surf from the safety of the shore… with a cocktail
Marlene Marques
4 years ago AUTHORSounds like a good plan!! 😉 cheers!!
Amy
3 years agoHi there, as I am planning my next trip in Bali, hopefully this summer, I would like to know if anyone knows any french surf school around those spots ? I have only surfed one time and I think, Bali is a great place to take some more classes and improve myself 🙂
Marlene Marques
3 years ago AUTHORHi Amy! So glad to hear that you’re planning to visit Bali. It´s one of my favorite islands in Indonesia. You’ll love it! Unfortunately, I don’t know any french surf school around there. But there are so many schools on the island that I’m sure you’ll find a good one that suits you. Maybe you can check it with your hotel or the place you gonna stay. Also, near the beaches there’s always a few to check it out. I hope you have a lovely time. Keep safe!
Amy
3 years agoHi Marlene, I have made some research and I have found Bali Ocean Surf which is a french surf school in Legian. The instructors are all french and the reviews are pretty good. Hope its gonna help if some people are in the same situation as me 🙂
Marlene Marques
3 years ago AUTHORHi Amy. How cool!! So glad you manage to found a french-spoken surf school. I’m sure it’s gonna help you immensely! When I started surfing there were no surf schools in Portugal and it took me almost a year to stand up on a surfboard on my own. To have someone to teach you and be with other people that are trying to learn and improve is super motivating and lots of fun. I’m sure you’ll be up and surfing in no time. Do tag me in a photo of you surfing in Bali when you’re there. I’d love to see it! Aloha, surfer girl!