18 Surf spots and beaches around Bali for all levels from beginner to pro surfers

I mean let’s be real here, what do you really think of when you hear of Bali? Um, surfing of course! (Well in my case anyway, I come from South Africa where every second person surfs).

Bali has been on every surfers’ radar for the longest time. It’s also known for its variety of beaches, so where does one even begin to look and plan? Would there even be enough time to visit all of them if you tried?

To help make things a little easier, we’ve put together a list of firing and epic spots around the island, but actually catering for all surf levels.

So whether you’re a beginner and not so comfortable in the water yet, or you’re reading this itching to know where you can rip it up – you’ll come across a beach that’s suitable for all surfing levels.

Perfect barrels, cooking lefts and rights, endless tubes and fun aerials, fat waves and mellow rides – what are you waiting for? It’s time to get in the water, man.

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For those that are just starting out, and are still at beginner level, we’ve made a quick breakdown of some of the surf jargon and lingo:

• Swell – The size of the waves rolling in as a body of water.

• Swell conditions – What is the wind direction, using directional coordinates; North, South, East, West, etc. This determines how strong the waves will be.

• Ft – Not actually ft if you’re American, this is more like a surfers language that they use, 2-3ft would be about 1 metre.

• Point break – Location where a wave breaks as it hits a point of land protruding from the coastline.

• Tides – There’s high and low tide and they’re usually about 6 hours apart until the change.

• Low tide – Water is shallower where the waves are breaking.
  

• High tide – There’s more water so waves are deeper, fuller, long-lasting and powerful.

1. The longest lefty on the island – Medewi Beach (for Beginner Surfers)

Here’s a little secret, one you’ll be delighted to know, along the coastline, among a multitude of black pebble rocks you’ll find some of the longest waves in Bali – and the longest left-hand point break – plus this beach has two epic surf spots!

The shores are nestled among a sleepy little Balinese village, and it’ll take you about 2.5 hours to get there. It’s perfect for a dawny (if you don’t mind getting up at 4am, real surfers yo), or a morning surf, because we all know the best surf is away from the crowds.

The best time to hit the surf is ideally around mid-tide, and that’s when the pointbreak  fires and peels off to the left.

The waves here are smooth and fat, which makes it ideal for all levels, from beginners to pro!

PS: Beginner surfers, do be aware of the rocks, like everywhere, and make sure not to break in their direction!

2. Time to catch some barrels mate – Padang Padang Beach (for Advanced Surfers)

Another sweet, secret spot, and the locals refer to it as Pantai Labuan Sait. It’s also one of Bali’s most famous surf spots due to the insane barrels it seems to spit out, like all.the.time. (It draws in surfers from all around the world due to it!)

There are board rentals that you can hire out from one of the locals if you haven’t brought yours along.

The reef here is super shallow, which it breaks on, so this spot is only recommended to those that truly know what they’re doing with a board/advanced level surfers.

However, this beach is so insanely beautiful and the bay area is perfectly fine for a swim in, followed by a little ray catching. Plus, you can hire out bodyboards which is great for the kids to play around with .

Fun fact: Padang Padang Beach was featured as a romantic setting in the book-turned-movie ‘Eat, Pray, Love’. So it has gained more popularity since movie

PS: It also seems great for sunbathing and kinda oozes the Algarve (Portugal)/Cinque Terre (Italy) vibes with its dotted umbrellas and sunbathers lounging everywhere.

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3. Do it like the pros on a black sand beach – Keramas Beach (for Advanced Surfers)

Bali is known for its ‘black beaches’ where the sands here are super black, and what was once one of Bali’s best kept hidden surf spots, has now become even more famed and favoured by all surfers alike.

And I have to just talk about the setting for a second. There’s gorgeous green rice paddies dancing in front of you, perfect for gazing when you’re sitting at backline.

The waves here are fast rolling, but tons of fun, and it’s a perfect one for trying to catch some air! It is tidally sensitive, preferring higher, incoming tides and light morning land breezes, so don’t expect the waves here to be consistent.

(If you’re on the hunt for watching the Pros rip it up in the waters, this is the spot. On that note, this is kinda like pro surfer grounds, so remember DO NOT DROP IN ON THE LOCALS/PROS)

4. Strong currents and punchy waves – Green Bowl Beach (for Intermediate Surfers)

This next one aint for the faint hearted, on a fitness level that is. However if you’re a fitness freak this one will tickle your fancy.

Prepare for a 15-30 minute walk (remember you’re carrying your board here too), around a cliff and down a flight of stairs (about 500!) – plus don’t forget, you’ve gotta do the walk back as well!

The beach faces South, directly in front of prettyyy big swell (swell basically means the entire bodiment of water, i.e. the waves) and is best at high tide. 🌊

The currents here are really powerful, so they do tend to pull you all over the place so expect a surf where the paddling doesn’t stop – hence the whole fitness thing.

PS: The tides can be very high in the morning (it can reach all the way to the bottom of the stairs), so it’s recommended to visit the beach during midday until 3pm when the tide is low. Buttt if you’re coming to surf… that doesn’t really matter.

5. Aye Captain! Go surfing on a movie set? – Suluban Beach (for Advanced Surfers)

Wanna find yourself in a scene from Pirates of the Caribbean? This could pretty much be one of its movie sets, with its otherworldly charm, oozing mystical and mystique vibes.

I absolutely lovee the surroundings here, and the beach is pretty much mapped out among a cave, making it really unique, special and not to mention super beautiful!

Do note that this stunning, white sandy beach’s shores are on a reef – please avoid stepping on – and it is a little rocky.

Another great thing about this little gem, is the tide produces perfect waves all day long (but do expect some big, powerful pushers) and she grants you the gift of both perfect left and right breaks!

6. Perfect for beginners and longboarders – Batu Bolong Beach (for Beginner Surfers)

Located on the Southcoast of Bali in Canggu, this is one of the great places to choose if you’re a beginner and you’ll be treated to hours in the water, learning to surf on fat, mellow waves.

Longboarders, this one is right up your alley, and for the experienced surfers, come have a little fun.

There is a bit of a small swell at times, that might end up taking you nearer to a rocky patch so just be aware. Also low tide does produce some pretty mushy, messy waves, but generally it’s great in high or low.

A great choice if you’re travelling with kids and they’re dying to learn to surf, but don’t forget your flip flops, this black sanded beach will burn the bejeebers outta your feet!

7. Enjoy some of that true surfing culture – Balangan Beach (for Surfers at every level)

If you’re looking for picturesque, and I’m talking about both the waves as well as the actual beach itself, well baby you’ve got it!

Spend the day ripping it up in these waters that chuck out waves no matter the tide. Many flock here because it has a feeling of the true surfing culture, and the bay is still really untouched and undeveloped. ❤️

Beginners can enjoy its smaller swells, but when they do get big and the waves start cooking, that’s when your waves will be lined with the pros.

And just in case you were wondering, lots of laid-back travellers come here because there are a TON of water sport activities which are pretty affordable.

8. At least this isn’t a mission impossible – Impossibles Beach (for Advanced Surfers)

Well I mean the name pretty much says it all and this is one of the most famous surf spots in Bali I’d say. The waves here are sizely, but that’s not where it’s name comes from.

It’s name was actually given because of the access point to the beach, which was super difficult to get to and a bit of a mission impossible.

But because of its killer waves, over the years it’s gained popularity with the crowds and so they’ve made the beach wayyy more accessible now.

There is a long reef (so there’s choice when it comes to take off points) that runs along the waters here, so you’ll have to paddle a bit to get past it, as well as throughout the surf – another beach that’s going to make you paddle.

Because of this, when it’s low tide you need to be extra careful about where you’re surfing, and you should wear booties to protect your feet from the sharp, shallow reef.

9. Escape to beaches near Bali at Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan – Jungut Batu Beach, Mahana Point (for Surfers at every level)

If you’re looking to make a day trip out of your surf experience, this short ferry ride will transport you to unfathomable beauty and five different surf spots around here, with something for all level surfers.

Playgrounds, Lacerations and Shipwrecks are 3 surf spots located in front of Jungut Batu Beach at Nusa Lembongan.

Playgrounds is the easiest of them all to reach,  and the waves here are fun, with a long left and short, barrel filled right.

Lacerations can actually be reached by paddling past Playgrounds, and this is where to look if searching for some great barrels!

Shipwrecks is epiccc, but it requires a boat to get you there, dropping you straight into the ocean. It’s probably got the best waves around and because it requires a little bit of help reaching, tends to be quiet and not many surfers out.

Between Lacerations and Shipwrecks is No Man’s. Expect big, heavy waves and a break straight onto the reef – so please, be careful!

If you’re keen, you might also want to check out Mahana Point at Nusa Ceningan. It’s also only reachable by boat, although some say you can climb down the rocks/cliffs if you’re up for an adventure. Locals reckon these waters are sharky but it’s yet to be proven by any surfer – still alive 😉

10. Easy breezy, island life – Balian Beach (for Surfers at every level)

In the mood for relaxed vibrations? You’ll find it not only in the wave production, but also in the people here.

Early morning, say before 11am, is the best, otherwise you’re going to be knocked with onshore winds.

It’s a nice easy paddle to get to and is close to shore. This spot however does open right towards the river mouth, which brings in good swell, but some have complained about trash floating in… So sad 🙁

PS: When you first enter the water, there’s a bit of a strong current pulling to the right, paddle out past about 50m to the left and you’re golden.

11. A locals’ beloved black sand beach spot – Echo Beach/Batu Mejan (for Advanced Surfers)

In Canggu and just down the way from Old Man’s, and home to a local gathering of expats, another black sand beach we present to you.

Another loved surf locale by those that head to Bali, the waves here are powerful and not for the inexperienced.

The name actually comes a restaurant named Echo Beach that opened up here, where the first break was surfed in front of, and tourists just dubbed the beach with the same name. So do bear that in mind when making your way here, locals may still call it ‘Batu Mejan’.

Waves here are super consistent, and perfect conditions are usually between mid and high tide – low tide is too low over the shallow reef.

12. The pure beauty of this beach… – Nyang Nyang Beach (for Advanced Surfers)

Possibly one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, it’s beauty alone is probably enough to draw you here. Although, the cherry on top has got to be the waves.

There’s an onshore wave break here – and the waves can get sizely – so I’d say know what you’re doing and be comfortable in the water, as well as be a good swimmer. And that isn’t where your exercise stops – or even begins for that matter.

To reach this gem, you’re going to need to follow a dirt track close to Uluwatu Temple and keep a lookout for a sign saying “Nyang Nyang Surfing Beach”.

Next, you’ll cross a field where you will find a drinks stall (the only one in the area as the beach is devoid of all shops and stalls) before descending the 500 steps that finally open up to the beach.

13. Finding your feet in the waters – Blackstone Nusa Dua Beach (for Beginner Surfers)

Referred to as having ‘mushy’ waves, these nice, soft tumbles are perfect for beginners and are a lot more manageable than a lot of the places around. There’s also a few surf schools that will bring you here to learn.

High tide is the ideal tide if you’re a beginner, as low tide can push you onto the exposed reef – which then involves a lot of paddling fellas! (But also the decent swell is when it’s high.)

If you’re more of an advanced surfer, near the left break is where you’ll want to position yourself, and because of the rocks, the waves are full of bounce and fun.

14. Something for everyone – Hyatt Reef @ Sanur Beach (for Surfers at every level)

When the wind hits a NW – W breeze, pick up your boards and make your way to Hyatt, which just also happens to be another great option for all levels – and they have a mixture of waves here.

So the break is broken up into 3 sections (outer, main and inside peak) and they each spit out different shapes and sizes.

If you’re looking for short, steep and hollow waves, join the gang at the outer-peak (about a 100m paddle from shore).

The main peak is directly in front of the Hyatt Hotel, and seems to have it all, from steep drop-ins to soft shoulders, but it all depends on the conditions.

The inside is where you’re most likely to be sitting with the beginners/mixed levels and the soft, right shoulder wave usually is a slow breaking one.

15. The original surfer’s paradise – Kuta Beach (for Beginner Surfers)

Surfers have been flocking here since the 1930’s, and it was known as the original surfing beach in Bali back in the day.

You will most commonly find beginners here, learning to surf, and the waves are littered with them, so keep that in mind.

It’s not a long paddle from the shore at all, and the beach break (not reef) makes it less nerve-wracking for beginners. (I mean which would you rather break onto soft sand or spikey reef and rock?)

Not only are the waves filled with people, but the beach is too, and it’s layered with sunbathers, watersports, traders, cafes, restaurants and families.

16. No baby you aren’t dreaming, you really are surfing! – Dreamland Beach (for Beginner Surfers)

A perfect place to learn to surf as well as having some great waves for those that are experienced – so this is a win-win for everyone. Plus the white sands and limestone cliffs add to the gorgeous surroundings.

However, because of it becoming widely populated over the years, it has taken its toll on the beach and the beach does need a clean up – but of course, the waves are still epic.

The break here is pretty mellow, but the waves can increase in size when the swell coming in is a big one.

If you’ve never even stood on a board before and wanna learn the basics, check out Dreamland Surf School.

17. A great place to start if you’re looking for small, mellow waves – Kedonganan Beach @ Jimbaran (for Beginner Surfers)

Soft sands and a soft break, when the tide is right this surf spot draws in the beginner bunches.

The bay shelters winds which is what keeps the waters mellow here, so there’s no need to fear falling off your board, as soft waters and sand are the only things beneath you.

If you’re maybe initially a bit nervous to get onto a surfboard, you can always find rent out an SUP (stand up paddleboard) and practise the feeling of standing on a board on water. (You can hire them out here too!)

This is also a rad spot if you’re looking for a little afternoon shorey because of its beach break .

18. Firing, cooking, BANGING waves – Bingin Beach (for Intermediate Surfers)

Perfect barrels and consistent waves, what more could an ocean baby ask for? Described as short, sharp and shallow, these crystal clear waters are what some would call paradise.

Oh, and did we mention the waves here are big? No, like I’m talking really, REALLY big.

But don’t let that scare you! There is actually a surf school here and instructors will guide you down when the tide is right and the waves are surfable for beginners. But again, only if you’re totally comfortable in the water.

The waters here are super tide sensitive, and low tide is only suitable for advanced surfers.

When the tide is up, the break becomes more soft, offering both a left and righty, ideal for longboarders and beginner level.

We all know Bali as one of the surfing hotspots of the world, but with so many beaches, where to even begin?

Hopefully this has broken things down for you, helping you to find the perfect spot to spend endless hours ripping it up – whether you’re just starting out at beginner level, or having been cruising the waves for years.

Let us know which spots you paid homage to, as well as the surf experience! Drop us a comment below, or tag us (#TripCanvas) in your next surfing adventure!

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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