Looking for Bali’s best surf spots? Bali is home to at least 60 surf spots, and there is probably not a bad one among them. So, when visiting an island with so many surf spots, how do you choose where to surf?
Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 places to surf in Bali. We’ve purposefully left off Kuta, Bali’s most famous, developed (and crowded) surf spot. Kuta Beach is a premier surfing destination ideal for beginners, featuring a sandy bottom and abundant space for surfing due to the 2km stretch of beach. The availability of board rentals and instructors makes it accessible for novice surfers. Remember that this list is in no particular order, and what is considered “best” for some might not be for others. The spots you choose would depend on your surfing skills; for example, Uluwatu is famous for surf trips but not ideal for beginner surfers.
Here’s our list of the 10 best surf spots on the island of Bali:
1. Padang Padang
Known as the “Balinese Pipeline”, this white sand beach is located on the Bukit Peninsula just 3km (2 miles) north of the temple at Uluwatu. It’s accessed via a stepped path off the main road.
Padang Padang beach is actually home to two breaks — the famous left break and the gentler beach break. One is for experts (Padang Padang Left), and the other for all levels (Padang Padang Right).
Padang Padang Left is a reef break with all the tubes, wave height, and speed an expert could want. It is primarily suited for advanced surfers due to its challenging conditions and powerful waves. Like Hawaii’s famous Pipeline, it requires significant skill to attempt.
During low tide, it is dangerous and best left to pros and kamikaze surfers. Be careful of the jagged rocks and sharp coral reefs below the shallow water.
If you aren’t an expert, you are advised to stick to Padang Padang Right or other nearby Bali surf spots for beginners. Several picturesque beach breaks are excellent for beginner and intermediate surfers with a long, unbroken wave at high tide — perfect for honing your technique.
Calling all beginners and intermediate surfers, are you ready for the ultimate wave-riding adventure? Join us at Rapture Surfcamps at the breathtaking Padang Padang beach, where the sun, sea, and surf combine to create the perfect playground for surf enthusiasts of all levels.
Whether you’re here to learn to surf or looking to level up your skills, our experienced instructors and world-class facilities are here to make your surfing dreams come true. Come catch your first wave or take your technique to the next level in this surfer’s paradise. Join us at our surf camp in Padang Padang, where the thrill of the ocean awaits!
2. Dreamland
100 meters of white sand and beautiful cliffs have made this area a gorgeous location for resort developers. Though more built up and less rustic than some of our other picks for Bali’s best surf spots, Dreamland has long been regarded for its killer waves. It’s also close to several other Bali surf spots on our list.
Dreamland is a must-visit spot on any Bali surf trip, offering accessibility and unique characteristics that enhance the travel experience for surfers.
While it is one of the island’s most famous waves for expert and pro-level surfers, Dreamland can still be one of the best Bali spots for beginners under the proper conditions.
However, this should be done with extreme caution. If you’re still a bit green or not at a high skill level, ask your surf instructor if Dreamland suits you.
3. Bingin Beach
Situated on the Bukit Peninsula at the midpoint between Padang Padang and Dreamland, Bingin is another pro-level wave. In contrast to Dreamland, the location is rugged, scenic, and more challenging to access, but as a wave, it is big, powerful, and world-class.
Bingin is one of the offbeat Bali surf spots, and it has its benefits, too. Known for its reef breaks, Bingin presents unique challenges and is a draw for surfers seeking quality waves. You’ll find smaller crowds here and a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere. While it is less crowded, it is not recommended to visit Bingin if you are here to learn to surf.
4. Keramas Beach
Located on Bali’s east coast, about 24 km (15 mi) from Denpasar City, it regularly hosts top-level professional events, such as the Oakley Pro Bali and the Kommune Bali Pro, as well as some festive night surfing events and parties. Keramas Beach has black sand, and the waves are big and fast. A tricky wave at times, pros return again and again to enjoy the thrilling ride it provides. It is also notable for producing good surf during Bali’s wet season.
5. Impossibles
Pros and experts seek out places like Impossibles on Bali’s west coast, known for its world-famous breaks during the dry season from May to September, for the sheer thrill and challenge they provide. The gorgeous rocky scenery doesn’t hurt, either. Just 5 minutes from Uluwatu temple (and nearby Dreamland, Balangan, Padang Padang, and Bingin), Impossibles got its name due to how difficult it used to be to access the spot. Thankfully, it can now be reached more easily, meaning you don’t need to be able to scale cliffs or surf!
6. Suluban
Located west of Padang Padang beach and about 5 minutes by car from Uluwatu temple, Suluban is a broad, white sand beach set off by a backdrop of stunning cliffs.
Suluban is also a popular spot for surf camps, which offer beginners and advanced surfers opportunities to improve their skills while enjoying supportive accommodations.
Known as Blue Point, this is a secluded beach that can only be reached by walking through a cave-like crevasse. Make no mistake, with its big Uluwatu-like barrels, this spot is suitable only for those at a professional level, but the spectacular views and rock formations make it worth a visit no matter how well you surf. Be careful of the jagged rocks and reefs!
7. Green Bowl
Once known as a bit of a “secret” spot on the Bukit, Green Bowl nonetheless offers some good surf. Green Bowl is unspoiled without even a warung (small family-owned shop or café) on site, and this little paradise is located about midway on the peninsula’s southern coastline.
Echo Beach, known for its small stretch of black sand and variety of waves suitable for intermediate surfers, is another key surfing location in Bali.
The wave can be surfed for most of Bali’s offseason (rainy season), and you may even get it all to yourself during weekdays, giving it a rightful place in Bali’s best surf spots.
While not one of Bali’s most well-known or consistent spots, we’re including it due to its small crowds, hollow and fast wave, and wet season durability.
The wave here is recommended for experienced surfers, especially on days with a big swell, which produces strong currents/rip tides. Beware of the coral and sharp rocks. Green Bowl is sometimes referred to as “Green Ball/s”.
8. Nyang Nyang
This spot makes the list more due to its natural beauty than top-level waves. People come here for the view and the chance to surf in such a scenic place. However, the right side of the beach offers a fun and short right-hander; further north along the coast can bring a larger and trickier peak.
The secret paradise of Nyang Nyang is only accessible via a rocky path off of the main Uluwatu road. After that, you have to face a taxing 600-step journey on foot down to the beach.
Surfers should be at least intermediate level and careful of the rocks and temperamental waves. Crowds are small here, allowing you to experience a peaceful paradise alone.
9. Balangan
An idyllic and extensive stretch of white sand that becomes a small peninsula, this highly valued surf spot ranges from huge waves on days with serious swell to multiple peaks and a long wall during smaller days and during medium and low tides. Though the access road has made things more accessible, it has also brought more surfers to this beautiful location for big dry-season waves.
Close to Impossibles, Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Bingin, Dreamland and more, Balangan. Suited for those with plenty of experience, attracts a mix of local and international surfers.
10. Uluwatu
Perhaps the most legendary of Bali’s best surf spots, Uluwatu, is located on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula under a spectacular 11th-century Hindu temple. It is the southernmost in a line of top spots like (from south to north) Padang Padang, Impossibles, Bingin, Dreamland, and Balangan.
Uluwatu has 5 amazing spots in one — The Peak, Racetrack, Outside Corner, Temples, and The Bombie. Depending on the time of day and swell, each of Uluwatu’s breaks has its own unique features.
Known for its consistently good quality surf, variety of breaks, and conditions throughout the day, Uluwatu is the domain of experienced and pro-level surfers. Those who still need practice should stick to nearby Padang Padang Right until they are up to the challenge of this spot.
As you plan your next surf adventure in Bali, remember that the island offers diverse surf spots to suit every level and preference. From the legendary breaks of Uluwatu to the serene shores of Medewi, Bali has something for everyone. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, grab your board, explore these incredible Bali surf spots, and get ready for an unforgettable ride.
Are you an experienced surfer? ULUWATU
Surf in Uluwatu and become one with Mother Nature
Uluwatu is 5 amazing spots in one — The Peak, Racetrack, Outside Corner, Temples and The Bombie. Depending on time of day and swell, each of Uluwatu’s breaks has its own unique features.
SURF IN ULUWATUReady to experience Bali’s surf paradise for yourself? Join us at Rapture Surfcamps,Bali at Padang Padang and Green Bowl to turn your surf dreams into reality. With top-notch surf instructors, comfortable accommodations, and a vibrant surf community, we’re here to make your Bali surf adventure truly epic. Book your stay with us now and ride the waves in style!
Hear What Rapture Surfcamps’ Guests Have To Say:
FAQs
Bali is renowned for its world-class waves, diverse surf spots, and a vibrant surf culture. The island’s consistent swells, warm water, and picturesque beaches make it a sought-after destination for surfers of all levels.
Experienced surfers often seek out challenging breaks like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Impossibles. These breaks offer powerful waves and are known for hosting international surf competitions.
Bali’s surf culture is vibrant and diverse, with a mix of locals and international surfers. The island has a laid-back atmosphere, and surf communities are known for their friendliness and inclusivity.