Bali is known around the world as being one of the best surf spots on earth. The Indonesian island gets direct swells from Antarctica to the south, so all the best spots are located on the southwest and southeast of Bali accommodation. While there are beaches on the north shore, they are generally not suitable for serious surfers. Bali’s winter months of June-September are the driest and best season for surfing. Read below for the 5 best surfing beaches in Bali.
Kuta Beach: This is perhaps the best beach in Bali, and certainly the most popular. It is easily accessible to many beach hotels, making it ideal for visitors. The waves are perfect for beginning surfers, although with the right southwest swell the waves can easily make it to 2 meters in height. Aside from surfing, the beach is popular for its long sandy shoreline, close proximity to the international airport and great inexpensive restaurants on the beach. Keep in mind that because it is so popular, it can be busy during the Bali winter months.
Padang Padang Beach: This beach is less popular and accessible than Kuta, which is perfect for many more serious surfers who want a shorter wait in between ride times. Padang Padang can be nearly empty at times, although the waves are often bigger than at Kuta. A surf camp calls the beach home, and offers lessons for complete novices and even experienced surfers who want some tips. You will find plenty of locals who know the beach and the tides by heart, and many pro surfers retire to live near this amazing beach.
Uluwatu Beach: This is one of the top destination for experienced surfers. The coral reef underwater makes for amazing breaks, but can be dangerous for beginners. Waves on an average day might be 10 metres, but easily hit up to 30 metres on a good day. Uluwatu is located next to the ancient village of Pecatu, as well as the Uluwatu Temple which is famed for its loud and free running Macaque monkeys. The beach is a popular place to spot manatees and even whales!
Canggu: This is a fantastic beach with awesome waves suitable for all surfers. Conditions are ideal when the tide is high, and often early morning bring the best winds. Much of the area has a sandy bottom, meaning any falls are not particularly painful as they would be on coral or rock bottoms. Waves are smaller in the wet season, but still one of the better places in Bali.
Balangan Beach: This is one of the lesser known surf spots in Bali. Until recently, it was quite difficult to reach. Thanks to a new direct road, it is only a short drive from Kuta, but is still relatively empty most days of the week. Great waves are easy to ride for surfers of any level, but it is best to go out with a local first to spot the coral and rocks that are dangerous and pop up every once in a while along the coast.
