Best beaches to surf in Bali for a beginner – Top 5
The best beaches to surf in Bali for a beginner was something that we wanted to find out on our one month trip to Bali. There are so many different beaches to surf on the mainland and on the small surrounding Islands such as Nusa Cenengan and Nusa Penida. Don’t worry, Bali has the best of everything for surfing when it comes to beginners and so on.
Best Surf Spots in Bali –
When it comes to having a great surf spot it is more than just how nice the beach is or how big the waves are. Warm weather, great food and drinks along the beach and a friendly environment all play a huge role in deciding where you should surf. We originally planned on going to Uluwatu in southern Bali to try surfing, but soon realized during our trip that there was opportunities to learn everywhere. No matter where you intend on going in Bali whether it be Canggu, Sanur, Uluwatu or northern Bali you will be able to indulge in shredding some gnar! I would highly recommend either taking a taxi to some of these beach spots or you can rent a scooter!
Should you take Lessons or Rent surfboards?
If you have never surfed before in your life I 100% recommend taking surfing lessons, which should cost around $30-$40. We took our first lessons at Balangan Beach for $35 per person. Maddie and I surfed a little when we were younger, but it was along time since we did so we were very happy we took lessons. Don’t worry about booking in advance as you can easily walk to the beach and find a company willing to teach you in private sessions. The instructor will teach you how to prop yourself up on the board to catch a wave while also explain how to paddle out and understand the waves.
I only recommend one day of lessons, because after that you can simply rent surfboards for under $10 per day and even cheaper if you do multiple days. Get yourself comfortable with balancing on the larger boards and paddling out before you feel you need anymore lessons. Most places will offer intermediate lessons if you feel inclined to take the next step in your surfing skills.
Best Beaches to Surf in Bali for a Beginner –
To help guide you with some of the best surfing spots in Bali, here is a list of our Top 5 surfing spots in Bali for a Beginner!
Jimbaran Beach – #1 Best beaches to surf in Bali for a beginner
If you are in southern Bali, Jimbaran is a great place to start out as the waves are not too big and allows you to learn the basics. When we asked our airbnb host where we should learn her top spot was Jimbaran. It’s a huge beach that you can also swim at incase you get tired of surfing and just want to relax. Located directly south of the airport it will not be hard to find and has plenty of restaurants and shopping close by for lunch. We went to Jimbaran in late July which meant high tide was around 1pm, which means get to the beach early. After 3pm it becomes harder to surf because it becomes a-lot more shallow where the waves are breaking. This is true at almost every beach in Bali in late July as the tide starts to go out.
Balangan Beach – #2 Best beaches to surf in Bali for a beginner
Balangan Beach is one best beaches to surf in Bali for a beginner. We stayed at a quiet little villa only 5 minutes from Balangan Beach. We took our first surf lessons here because it was so close to home and heard nothing but great things about it. It’s a secluded beach next to the Kuta Golf course that is super chill and meant for surfers of all levels. Get here early and sign yourself up for a 2 hour lesson or simply rent a board for $10 for the entire day.
There are over 10 restaurants lining the beach that offer great food and dining. Closer to shore is where all the beginners surf, while farther out you can watch experience surfers going through barrels rolls and doing tricks. I highly recommend spending at least one day at Balangan Beach while it is still a secluded little town without fancy high-end resorts.
Kuta Beach – #3 Best beaches to surf in Bali for a beginner
If you have done any research on Bali I am sure you have heard of Kuta. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Island which make it one of the best / worst spots to learn depending on what you like. We personally are not a huge fan of large resorts with crowded beaches which is exactly what Kuta is. Kuta is great for surfers though because the waves are really close to shore and it also have some of the best sand beaches Bali has to offer.
Kuta is located directly north of the airport which makes it easily accessible. Once you enter Kuta Beach you will see surfboard rental places all over and see the designated spots for surfers. Most people here are beginners or intermediate surfers as the pros are usually in the town of Canggu. Kuta is great for families as there is shopping and restaurants right behind the beach. You can rent lounge chairs to relax and take a break compare to some of the other beaches in Bali.
Padang Padang Beach – #4 Best beaches to surf in Bali for a beginner
Padang Padang located in the heart of Uluwatu is known for its Rip Curl event every year. Besides just surfing the town has so many unique stores, cafes and restaurants to keep you busy when you aren’t learning how to surf. Padang Padang offers surf camps which generally includes accommodations and all needed equipment . If you have ever surfed before as a beginner you know sometimes that hardest part is just getting out to the waves. Padang Padang is known for having nice and easy access to the channels. This will make your experience while learning to surf in Bali much more enjoyable because its not fun when you have to struggle just to get out to sea.
Batu Bolong Beach – #5 Best beaches to surf in Bali for a beginner
Located in Canggu which is known for its laid back surfing atmosphere Batu Bolong has it all. The atmosphere and the right waves for you to learn to surf while in Bali. Canggu is often thought of as a place where beginners cannot surf but Batu Bolong beach is perfect for someone looking to ride waves for the first time.
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