If you’re looking for dynamic surfing spots with a large variety of breaks to suit all levels of surferr and plenty of other activities to enjoy for any budget, Bali offers everything from luxurious health spas to buzzing nightlife and family-friendly beaches.
Here are 8 reasons why Bali is one of the world’s best-surfing destination:
1. Rich in Natural Beauty, History and Culture
Relax on stunning white-sand beaches, wander through lush jungle and gaze over it all from atop soaring cliffs. For a surf holiday that incorporates beautiful natural and cultural sites, Bali can’t be beaten. In fact, some of the most sought-after surf breaks feature breath-taking scenery, such as ornate temples, picturesque country villages, and calming rice fields.
Examples include Uluwatu, with its incredible beach caves below and an ornate 11th century Hindu temple above; and Green Bowl, an isolated spot, which during low tide, reveals a bowl-shaped ocean floor that causes the water to reflect the greenery of the surrounding hills.
2. Suits all Budgets
From backpackers to luxury resort patrons, Bali has something for everyone which is why it is such a popular spot for surfing. Surfers traveling on a shoestring budget will most likely spend most of their budget on just getting there while taking advantage of cheap, but comfortable accommodation that is still close to the beach.
On the other end of the spectrum, Bali has an impressive selection of luxurious hotels, resorts, and spas for surfers who like a bit of opulence to go with their waves. So, if you’re after a lavish getaway, a budget backpacker experience, or anything in between, Bali is sure to have something to suit your tastes as well as your bank account.
3. A Haven for Not Just Surfing!
Even if you’re on a die-hard surf holiday in Bali, you might not want to surf 100% of the time. You’ll at least enjoy a little time away from the waves to see the sites, enjoy the nature (on land and in the sea, but off the surfboard) and maybe check out a nice restaurant or bar. Luckily, you’ve come to a place that has all of the above and more.
From other water sports like swimming, snorkelling, scuba, rafting, and fishing to exploring the interior of the island, nightclubbing, fine dining, and visiting ancient temples, Bali is a tourist’s dream. Maybe you just want to kick back and relax in your comfortable accommodation, do some yoga, or spoil yourself with a spa treatment. The island is your oyster!
4. Excellent Conditions for Surfing 365 Days
Perhaps one of Bali’s best-kept secrets is that it can be surfed practically all year round. The dry months of June to September are the busiest for surfers and tourists alike, but the Bali rainy season provides a great opportunity for surfers to take advantage of smaller crowds at breaks and cheaper rates for hotels, resorts, and surf schools.
Don’t confuse Bali’s wet months with the stormy monsoon season that hits much of Southeast Asia each year. Things are considerably tamer on this Island of the Gods. Added bonuses include the fact that temperatures become noticeably cooler and the vegetation becomes more lush and beautiful.
During Bali’s rainy season, the winds change and open up surf spots on the island’s East coast. If you’re into white-water rafting, it’s also a great time to visit Bali and take advantage of the swelling waters of the Ayung and other rivers. Good Bali wet season surf breaks include Keramas, Nusa Dua, Green Bowl, Serangan, Sanur, and Sri Lanka.
5. An Established and Thriving Surf Culture
Everyone in Bali knows about surfing and that surfers come from all over the world just to enjoy these amazing waves. Since the 1970s, when trailblazing surfers discovered the island’s world-class breaks and peaceful atmosphere, surfing has grown into an institution in Bali. This makes it a great place to meet other surfers, learn how to surf from qualified instructors and take advantage of the 60-some established surf spots already discovered and made accessible by Bali’s surfing pioneers. Whether you are beginner or an expert surfer, you are sure find surf camps in Bali to suit your skill-levels, budget, and other preferences.
6. Best Place to Learn How to Surf
Don’t be intimidated by stories of massive tubes and places only experts, pros and kamikazes dare to surf in Bali. Well, these do exist. However, there are also plenty of mellow breaks and beach waves that are great for learners, intermediates, and long-boarders. With so many surf spots, a well-established international surfing community, and surf schools staffed by qualified, knowledgeable instructors, the island of Bali is without a doubt one of the best places to learn how to surf.
Suitable beginner and/or learner waves in this capital of Asian surfing include Padang Padang Right, Balangan, and Dreamland. Locals and instructors will also know when some of the more advanced breaks have mellower conditions that are fine for novice surfers.
7. Variety of Breaks for Surfers of all Levels
Bukit’s natural beauty was showcased in the Julia Roberts film “Eat, Pray, Love”. It’s easy to see why this place was chosen as a setting for the Hollywood blockbuster. But besides gorgeous beaches, the peninsula is also home to an incredible cluster of world-class surf breaks. Though known for its pro-level waves like Uluwatu and Padang Padang Left. There are also great beginner waves like Padang Padang Right’s mellow beach break.
When your not surfing, make sure not to miss some of the Bukit Peninsula’s other attractions. For example, the temple at Uluwatu, a spectacular cliff-top Hindu shrine dating from at least as far back as the 11th century. Be careful of the temple monkeys, however. They are known for stealing tourists’ belongings!
8. Spoilt for Choice with Ample Surf Spots
Bali is home to at least 60 surf breaks, providing plenty of choice for everyone from beginners to experts.
Since conditions are known for being consistent, there’s got to be at least a few with great swell on any given day. From the pipeline-esque tubes of Padang Padang and Uluwatu’s legendary reliability for providing excellent swell to east coast favorite Keramas and the amazing stretch that is Balangan — Bali ticks all the boxes.
Ready to experience the thrill of Bali’s waves? Join Rapture Surfcamps now!
Discover the surf paradise in Bali with two incredible locations: Padang Padang and Green Bowl.
Experience the ultimate surf adventure with Rapture Surfcamps:
- Enjoy stunning beachfront accommodations.
- Daily surf lessons for all levels.
- Epic sunset sessions.
- Relax at beachfront bars.
- Immerse in authentic Balinese culture.
- Ride world-class waves.
- Savor delicious local cuisine.
Don’t miss out! Book your Bali surf experience today!
Visit us at www.rapturecamps.com.
Ride the waves, create memories, and live the Bali dream!
Hear What Rapture Surfcamps’ Guests Have To Say:
Looking for Bali’s best surf spots? SURF IN BALI
Bali is home to at least 60 surf spots and there probably isn’t a bad one among them.
So when you’re visiting an island with so many choices, how do you choose where to surf? We’ve compiled a top ten list of the crème de la crème of places to surf in Bali.
READ MOREFAQs About Surfing in Bali
Bali is renowned for its consistent and diverse waves, catering to surfers of all levels. The island’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean ensures a year-round surf season, with various breaks suitable for beginners, intermediate, and advanced surfers.
Bali’s coastline offers a variety of wave types, from mellow beach breaks to powerful reef breaks. This diversity provides surfers with the opportunity to experience and improve their skills on different types of waves within a relatively small geographical area.
Yes, Bali is a perfect destination for surfers of all levels. The island has surf schools that cater to beginners, offering lessons in the more forgiving beach breaks. Meanwhile, experienced surfers can challenge themselves with the powerful reef breaks, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Bali has a vibrant and welcoming surf culture. The island is home to a mix of local and international surfers, creating a diverse and inclusive community. Surfing events, competitions, and beachside cafes contribute to the overall surf culture, making Bali an excellent place to connect with fellow surf enthusiasts.
Bali is home to iconic surf breaks like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Keramas, attracting surfers from around the world. Uluwatu, with its long left-hand barrel, is particularly famous, while Padang Padang offers challenging reef breaks. Each break has its own unique characteristics, contributing to Bali’s reputation as a surfers’ paradise.
Bali is not only a great surf destination but also a diverse and culturally rich island. Surfers and their companions can explore lush rice terraces, ancient temples, vibrant markets, and experience the unique Balinese arts and ceremonies. The island’s hospitality, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for both surfing and cultural exploration.
