Bali is a surf destination that attracts surfers from all over the world. This Indonesian island offers surfers a unique blend of consistent waves, warm water, and a vibrant local culture that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. It is truly epic.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking a challenge, Bali has something for everyone. The island’s varied topography offers waves on both the west and east coasts, making it a year-round surf destination.
On top of sweet waves, Bali has a thriving surf culture and community. Surf shops, cafes, and hotels dot the island’s coastline, catering to surfers and their needs. The local surf scene is welcoming and inclusive, and it’s not uncommon for travelers to strike up a conversation with a fellow surfer in the lineup.
So, let’s get into the details of getting you here! If you’re planning a surf trip to Bali, where should you stay?
There are infinite options and we get it, it can be overwhelming. In this post, we’ll explore the best areas for surfers to stay on the island, as well as some top accommodation options to make the most of your surfing adventure.
The Best Areas in Bali for Surfers
Below, we will be listing the best areas in Bali for surfers off all levels. Every area has it’s own vibrant (surf) culture and is worth checking out and spending time in. Let’s dig in.
Hipster Town Canggu (dry season)
Canggu is a popular surf spot on the west coast of Bali that offers a mix of beginner to advanced breaks. During the dry season (April to October), the waves in Canggu are consistent and ideal for surfers of all levels. The area is home to some popular surf spots like Echo Beach, Batu Bolong, and Berawa Beach, which offer both left and right-hand waves breaking over reef or sand bottoms.
The surf breaks are known for their consistency throughout the year, but during the dry season, the waves are typically more manageable due to the offshore winds, making it a great time for beginners to hit the water. Keep in mind that during bigger swells, or big tidal swings, the ocean can be rough, and the gnarly shorebreak is famous for breaking boards and swinging around surfers trying to get to the shore. You have probably seen it multiple times on @kookslams.
Our recommended accommodations in Canggu? Check it out below!
The Most Southern Part of Bali: The Bukit Peninsula
The Bukit Peninsula is located on the southern tip of Bali and is home to some of the island’s most famous surf breaks, including Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Impossibles. During the dry season (April to October), the waves on west coast of the Bukit Peninsula are consistent and powerful, making it an ideal time for experienced surfers to visit. During the wet season (November to March), the eastern coast the Bukit Peninsula is a great place to surf, with Serangan beach topping the list for beginner surfers, and Nusa Dua for experienced surfers. During wet season, and with the right size swell, the east coast can produce some of the biggest and heaviest waves in Bali, making it no joke.
In general, staying on the Bukit Peninsula is a safe bet to catch a lot of waves during your surf trip to Bali. All surf breaks are within a few kilometers from each other, and all of them are different and amazing in their own way.
Do you want to stay close the whats happening in the water and nightlife? stay in the areas called Bingin, Uluwatu or Padang Padang. Would you rather stay a little bit cheaper and local, find yourself a place in either Pecatu or Ungasan! Below are our recommendations for the best accommodations in these areas.
Wet Season Favorite: Keramas
Keramas is located on the east coast of Bali and is a popular surf spot during the wet season (November to March). During this time, the area experiences consistent swells, and the waves can reach heights of up to 10 feet. Keramas is known for its fast, powerful right-hander waves and is recommended only for experienced surfers during bigger swells. While there are a few accommodations in Keramas, it’s a bit more remote than other surf spots on the island, making it a great option for surfers looking to escape the surf crowds in Bali.
With it’s black sandy beaches, and a more remote feeling, the east coast is a great area to explore the Balinese (surf) culture. Even though it’s only a 2 hours drive from the airport, and also the main tourist area in Bali, you will notice a difference in interactions and way of living. Venture along the east coast yourself to find some uncrowded (we mean zero crowds) and unspoiled waves!
Our accommodation recommendations? Check it out.
In any season there is surf to be found, and each break and area has swells that work for beginners to advanced surfers. We are sure you’ll find the perfect wave for your level and needs in Bali. If not, just contact us!
Top Accommodation Options for Surfers in Bali
Accommodation options in Bali cater to surfers of all levels and budgets. The range is very broad from a few dollars to a few hundred or even thousands of dollars a night. Here are some top options for surfers looking to stay on the island:
For the All-in Package: Surf Camps
Surf camps are a popular accommodation option for surfers in Bali. They offer an all-inclusive experience that includes surf lessons, equipment rental, food, experiences, and accommodation. Surf camps are a great option for beginner surfers looking to improve their skills, as well as experienced surfers looking to explore new surf spots. Some popular surf camps in Bali are Pelan Pelan Bali and Inda Surf Camp.
Not sure where to look or where to start? Click the button below to find all the surf camps in Bali within a mouse click!
The Real Island Life Feeling: Ocean View Villas and Accommodations
Bali is home to a variety of ocean view villas and accommodation options that offer easy access to the surf. These types of accommodations are perfect for surfers who want to be close to the waves and enjoy the island’s beautiful coastal scenery.
Many of these villas come equipped with their own private pools and outdoor spaces, making them a great option for groups or families. This is probably one of the most amazing options out there, but in most cases it doesn’t come cheap. Sorry budget travellers. Still, snag a sweat deal and you could be sipping a coconut overlooking the Balinese surf breaks.
Our favorite ocean view accommodations?
Budget Friendly and Friendship Boosters: Guesthouses and Homestays
Guest houses and homestays are a great option for surfers on a budget. They offer a more authentic experience and are often run by locals who are happy to share their knowledge of the island with guests. Many guest houses and homestays in Bali are located near popular surf spots, making them a convenient option.
Even if you are not on a budget, we would still recommend staying at a guesthouse or homestay for a few nights. The knowledge you will receive from the local owners is priceless and an unforgetable Balinese experience.
Our top guesthouses and homestays are below!
This is a mini roadmap to the types of accommodations you can find here on the beautiful island of Bali. Trust us, there are many, many options. We know you will find something that works for you and your budget.
Still not sure where to stay on your next surf trip to the Island of Gods? Check out Booking.com and snag some sweat deals on top accommodations in Bali!
Other Things to Consider on a Surf Trip to Bali
Planning a surf trip to Bali involves more than just finding the perfect surf spot and accommodation. Here are some other considerations to keep in mind:
Getting Around: Transportation
Bali has a variety of transportation options for getting around the island and to different surf spots. Scooters are a popular choice for surfers as they offer flexibility and are easy to park near surf breaks. However, if you’re not comfortable riding a scooter, we suggest not riding one here. It can be dangerous for you and other drivers.
Taxis and ride-sharing services like GoJek or Grab are really easy and super cheap options. Some surf camps and accommodations also offer transportation to and from the surf spots as part of their packages.
If you decide to rent a scooter, please make sure to always wear your helmet and wear decent protective clothes.
The Good Part: Food and Drinks
Bali has a thriving dining and nightlife scene, with a variety of options available in the surf hub areas. Canggu and Seminyak are popular areas for restaurants and bars, offering everything from traditional Indonesian food to international cuisine.
Uluwatu is also home to a variety of beach clubs and bars, perfect for enjoying a sunset drink after a day of surfing. Some popular dining and nightlife spots where surfers gather in Bali include Old Man’s in Canggu and Single Fin in Uluwatu.
No Swell? Activities and Attractions
There are lots of non-surfing activities to enjoy during periods of no swell. From exploring temples to hiking volcanoes, there’s something for everyone on the island. A popular attraction is the Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud, which offers stunning views of Bali’s iconic rice paddies.
For a more active experience, you can hike up Mount Batur for sunrise or explore the island’s waterfalls. Bali is also known for its traditional arts and crafts, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about batik, woodcarving, and other traditional techniques.
Want to stay more on the water? Try out some watersport activities like wakeboarding and jetski’s in Nusa Dua!
There is plenty of fun to be had on land and in the water. We hope this overview will be helpful in your first steps of planning a surf trip to Bali. By taking the time to plan these aspects of your trip, we know you will have a memorable time!
Bali is a dream destination for many surfers. There is a good reason for this, jungle to ocean, surf culture to Balinese culture, delicious waves and food, all available for a large spectrum of budgets. From the consistent waves of Canggu to the world-renowned breaks of Uluwatu, Bali offers surfers of all levels a chance to experience the island’s surf culture and community.
When planning your surf trip, consider the best surf regions and accommodations for your needs, as well as transportation, dining and nightlife, and non-surfing activities to enjoy during downtime.
The Island of Gods welcomes you to bring an adventurous spirit. A surf trip to Bali is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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