Surfing Uluwatu in Bali – World-Class Reef Breaks in Bali

Last Updated: 18.09.2023

The legendary place called Uluwatu holds a special place in surf lore. Surfing Uluwatu is associated with crème de la crème of the sport and the lifestyle. In fact it was Uluwatu that made the island of Bali internationally famous among surfers. Uluwatu is situated on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula, which protrudes like a golf club from the south coast of Bali.

Aside from surfing, Uluwatu is famous for the 11th-century Hindu temple that attracts tourists from all over the world. While surfers may love a visit to the stunning temple above the waves, it’s what lies below that draws them to surfing Uluwatu. And these are waves that deserve their respect.

“Uluwatu, in the southern end of Bali, is always pumping waves and gets good conditions with a South swell as well as Southeast trade winds. Expect 2-to-10 foot waves. It’s the most famous wave in Bali.”

Surfertoday.com

Sightseeing in Uluwatu and Balinese culture

From a historical standpoint, Uluwatu is home to a spectacular 11th century Hindu temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu), which has great views and is home to some very crafty monkeys, who are definitely not to be trusted. Consider yourself warned: keep your sunglasses, wallets, cameras and other belongings out of their reach! The temple features staggering views over the Indian Ocean, traditional Balinese dance performances and a host of other cultural aspects.

Bali is a country with a wealth of cultural and religious tradition, delicious cuisine and way more to experience than just the beach. Uluwatu sits in Pecatu village in Bali’s South Kuta district only 3 km from Padang Padang beach. It is accessible via taxi from Kuta in around 30 to 40 minutes. Other options in Uluwatu besides temple visits and surfing include a game of golf, getting married at Tirtha Wedding Chapel and having a spa treatment or two.

Surf in Uluwatu and become one with Mother Nature

Uluwatu’s potential for incredible surfing first caught the attention of global audiences with the release of the Australian environmental surf documentary “Morning of the Earth” in 1971. This film helped to establish and encourage the natural relationship between the surfing community and ecological values.

This deep appreciation comes from not only enjoying nature’s beauty, but participating in it. Some surfer’s even talk about “becoming one” with Mother Nature by catching that perfect wave.

Pros, as well as local surfers, revere Uluwatu’s waves perhaps as much as the priests in the temple above revere their Hindu gods. Experienced surfers will love the challenging waves of Uluwatu, but if you’re not a pro, it’s best to keep the surf for sightseeing. Make no mistake: these are big waves.

What if I am not an experienced surfer?

Surfing Uluwatu is mainly the domain of professional and expert surfers. Uluwatu can be dangerous for those without the proper skills and experience. Beginners should better go to nearby Padang Padang Right, a beach break with friendlier waves suitable for longboarders and those learning the art. Luckily, besides Padang Padang beach, Uluwatu it’s also in close proximity to other top breaks and beaches including Bingin, Dreamland, Impossibles and Suluban.

Check out our guide to the best beginner surf spots in Bali

Top 5 Surf Breaks of Uluwatu for Expert Surfers

Uluwatu is actually 5 breaks (starting from the north): The Peak, Racetrack, Outside Corner, Temples and The Bombie. All these surf breaks are recommended for experienced surfers while some may be suitable for intermediate surfers as well. Make sure to get the advice of a surf guide when exploring these breaks.

1. Uluwatu Point (The Peak)

• Wave Type: Left-hand reef break
• Best Tide: Mid to high tide

Uluwatu Point, often referred to as “The Peak,” is one of Uluwatu’s surf spots that attracts thousands of surfers each year. It offers long, powerful left-hand waves that barrel beautifully along the reef. Located to the south of the cave entrance, this break is suitable for experienced surfers due to its challenging nature and shallow and sharp reef. Uluwatu Point is also famous for its iconic cave, where spectators can watch surfers riding the waves from above.

2.Racetrack

• Wave Type: Left-hand reef break
• Best Tide: Low to Mid Tide

Racetrack is a challenging left-hand reef break located on the Bukit Peninsula of Bali, not far from Uluwatu. This break offers fast and powerful waves that can provide long rides and occasional barrels. It’s best suited for experienced surfers who are comfortable navigating tricky reef conditions. Racetrack is known for its consistency and the adrenaline rush it provides to surfers seeking a thrilling ride.

3. Outside Corner

• Wave Type: Left-hand reef break
• Best Tide: Mid to high tide

Located just outside the iconic Uluwatu cave, Outside Corner is a legendary left-hand reef break that offers some of the longest and most challenging rides in Bali. The waves here can be massive and hollow, providing experienced surfers with the opportunity to ride through long barrels. It’s a powerful break that requires precise timing and skill to navigate, making it a favorite among advanced surfers who seek the ultimate thrill.

4. Temples

• Wave Type: Left-hand reef break
• Best Tide: Mid tide

One of the lesser crowded places to go surfing in Uluwatu, the Temples offers a variety of waves, from mellow walls to fast and hollow sections. The unpredicatable waves and a rather long paddle appeals to very few surfers as compared to the other reef breaks in this list.

5. The Bombie

• Wave Type: Left-hand Reef break
• Best Tide: High tide

The Bombie is a powerful and often heavy reef break located off the Bukit Peninsula. This wave is known for its size and intensity, attracting experienced surfers looking for big, barreling waves. It’s not for the faint of heart, and surfers must exercise caution when tackling The Bombie. The size and conditions can vary, so it’s essential to have local knowledge or a qualified surf guide when attempting to surf this break.

Each has a character all of its own depending on swell and time of day. Surfing Uluwatu is famous for consistency, so throughout the day conditions should be good at several times.

Whether you’re seeking thrilling barrels or more forgiving waves, Bali’s southern coast has something to satisfy every surfer’s appetite for adventure and challenge. Here are some other popular spots if you are planning to surfing in Uluwatu or around it.

Impossibles

Impossibles is a series of left-hand reef breaks located just south of Uluwatu Point. Characterised by the 5+ft swells, the Impossibles is . The name “Impossibles” is not deceiving; it can be challenging at times and also provides fun and rippable waves for those who know where to position themselves.

Padang Padang

Padang Padang is a world-famous surf break known for its powerful and hollow left-hand barrels. Christened as the “Balinese Pipeline” due to its similarities with the legendary Hawaiian break. This wave is not for the faint of heart and is best suited for experienced surfers who are comfortable in heavy reef breaks. If you are an inexperienced surfer, you can always have a good day surfing at the Padang Padang Rights.

Want to learn to surf like a pro? Sign up at a very loved surf school in Padang Padang – Rapture Surf Camps. You get to learn to surf, replenish your mind with Yoga and enjoy a wholesome surf community when you stay at a Rapture Surf Camps property.

Bingin

Bingin is another left-hand reef break, known for its consistency and accessibility. It offers long rides and occasional barrels, making it a favorite among surfers of various skill levels. Bingin is also famous for its vibrant surf community and the charming warungs (local cafes) perched on the cliffs, providing a perfect spot to relax and watch the waves.

Things to keep in mind when surfing in Uluwatu

Surfing in Uluwatu, Bali, is an exhilarating experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. To ensure a safe and enjoyable surf session in this world-renowned surf destination, here are some important things to keep in mind:

1. Swell Size and Tide Awareness

Uluwatu is known for its powerful and challenging waves, especially when there’s a large swell. When the swell is big and the tide is low, it’s essential to recognize that these conditions are suited for experienced and advanced surfers only. The waves can be massive and break over shallow reefs, making it a demanding environment that requires expert-level skills.

2. Protect Your Feet with Reef Booties

Uluwatu’s breaks are reef breaks, which means there are sharp and potentially hazardous corals beneath the water’s surface. To safeguard your feet from cuts and injuries, it’s highly recommended to wear reef booties when you go surfing in Uluwatu. These protective footwear items provide the necessary barrier between your feet and the reef, allowing you to surf with confidence and minimize the risk of injuries.

3. Select the Right Surfboard and Leash

When tackling Uluwatu’s waves, it’s advisable to use a larger surfboard with ample buoyancy. A larger board provides better stability and control, especially in challenging conditions. Additionally, make sure your surfboard leash is strong and securely attached to your board. This ensures that you don’t lose your board in the powerful waves, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring you can easily retrieve your board after a wipeout.

4. Seek Local Knowledge

One of the best ways to navigate dynamic surf conditions is to tap into the expertise of local surfers and instructors before you go surfing in Uluwatu. They possess valuable insights into the breaks, including when the best times to surf are and which spots are most suitable for your skill level. Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with locals, ask questions, and learn from their experience. Their guidance can enhance your surf experience and keep you informed about any potential hazards or challenges.

5. Surf with Caution

Above all else, remember to approach Uluwatu’s waves with caution. Even if you’re an experienced surfer, the conditions can change rapidly, and the power of the waves can be formidable. Always prioritize safety by respecting your own limits and the limits of your equipment. If you’re uncertain about the conditions or your ability to handle them, it’s better to exercise caution and wait for more suitable surf conditions.

Uluwatu offers a thrilling surfing experience, but it’s essential to approach it with respect, awareness, and a commitment to safety. By understanding the nuances of swell size, tides, and local advice, you can make the most of your time in the water while ensuring a safe and enjoyable surf session in this iconic Bali surf destination.

Uluwatu in Bali stands as a true gem, home to five world-class reef break waves that beckon adventurers from around the globe. From the legendary Uluwatu Point to the heart-pounding Bombie and the lesser-known treasures like Temples, each reef break tells a unique story waiting for you to ride.

As you immerse yourself in the thrill of Bali’s surf culture and the beauty of its coastline, don’t forget to consider enhancing your experience with the experts. Rapture Surf Camps, located in the nearby surf havens of Padang Padang and Green Bowl, offer surf trip packages that cater to surfers of all levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your surfing journey, Rapture Surf Camps provides the ideal blend of expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and the chance to experience the true essence of Bali’s surf culture.

So, if you’re ready to ride the waves in Bali and explore its world-class breaks, embark on your surf adventure with Rapture Surf Camps.

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