Beginner and Intermediate Surf Spots in Bali. Bali is one of the world’s most famous surf destinations, attracting surfers from all over the globe. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an intermediate surfer looking to take your skills to the next level, Bali offers an abundance of surf spots to choose from. With its warm waters, consistent waves, and beautiful beaches, Bali provides the perfect environment for surfers of all levels.
This guide will take you through the best beginner and intermediate surf spots in Bali, providing you with all the information you need to make the most of your surfing adventure in this tropical paradise.
1. Kuta Beach – The Best Beginner Surf Spot in Bali
When it comes to learning how to surf, Kuta Beach is the place to start. This iconic spot is known for its soft, rolling waves that are perfect for beginners. The beach is located close to the main tourist area, making it accessible and convenient for first-time surfers.
Why Kuta is Perfect for Beginners:
- Gentle, soft waves that are easy to ride
- Sandy bottom with no sharp rocks or reefs
- Plenty of surf schools and rental options
- A large surfing community, ideal for learning
Kuta is the perfect beach for those just getting started with surfing. Whether you’ve never surfed before or are looking to refine your technique, you’ll find plenty of options for lessons and rentals.
2. Legian Beach – A Quieter Option for Beginners
If Kuta feels too crowded, Legian Beach, located just north of Kuta, offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still providing great waves for beginners. The gentle waves here break over a sandy bottom, making it easy for newbies to practice.
What Makes Legian Great for Beginners:
- Quieter than Kuta with fewer crowds
- Gentle waves that break consistently
- Ideal for those looking for a more peaceful experience
Legian is an excellent choice for beginners who want to enjoy Bali’s surf without the crowds. It’s also a fantastic place to practice your pop-up and improve your paddling.
3. Seminyak Beach – A Step Up for Beginners
Seminyak Beach offers a more upscale vibe compared to Kuta and Legian, but it’s still a great spot for beginners, especially for those looking to challenge themselves with slightly bigger waves.
Why Seminyak is Great for Beginner Surfers:
- More challenging waves for those looking to progress
- Wide beach with plenty of space to practice
- Lots of surf schools and rentals available
If you’re comfortable with the basics and want to step up your surfing, Seminyak offers bigger and more exciting waves while still being beginner-friendly. It’s the perfect spot for those who want to push themselves a bit more.
4. Canggu – Ideal for Beginner and Intermediate Surfers
Canggu is one of the most popular surf destinations in Bali, especially for intermediate surfers. With several beaches to choose from, including Batu Bolong, Echo Beach, and Berawa, Canggu offers something for every level of surfer. The waves here are perfect for those looking to progress and refine their surfing technique.
Canggu’s Best Surf Spots:
- Batu Bolong Beach: Great for practicing turns and basic maneuvers and when the low-mid tide also perfect for beginner level.
- Echo Beach: Offers more powerful waves for confident intermediates.
- Berawa Beach: Ideal for those looking to work on their speed and style.
Canggu’s surf scene is vibrant, with a blend of local surfers and international travelers. The area also offers a range of surf schools, cafés, and surf-related activities, making it an all-around perfect place for intermediate surfers.
5. Jimbaran Bay – A Peaceful Beginner Spot
If you’re looking for a quieter spot to learn how to surf, Jimbaran Bay is a hidden gem. Known for its calm and gentle waves, Jimbaran is perfect for beginners who want a less crowded place to practice.
Why Jimbaran is Great for Beginners:
- Gentle, mellow waves that break slowly
- Sandy bottom, making it safe for beginners
- Peaceful, serene environment with fewer tourists
Jimbaran Bay is ideal for first-time surfers or families with young kids. It’s a peaceful, relaxing beach that offers a great introduction to surfing without the pressures of a busy surf spot.
6. Medewi – Long Rides for Intermediates
For intermediates looking to step up their game, Medewi on Bali’s west coast is a must-visit. The waves here are longer and perfect for refining your skills and practicing maneuvers. Medewi’s left-hand point break is one of the longest in Bali, providing ample time to practice turns and carving.
Why Medewi is Perfect for Intermediates:
- Long, consistent left-hand point breaks
- Quieter location, less crowded than southern Bali
- Ideal for practicing turns, speed, and technique
Medewi is an excellent destination for intermediate surfers looking to push their limits. The waves here offer a bit more challenge than typical beginner spots but are still manageable for those with some experience.
7. Padang Padang – Intermediate Surf Paradise
Padang Padang Beach, famous for its world-class waves, also has a section of smaller waves that are perfect for intermediates. The right-hand side of Padang Padang (Baby Padang) offers a fun and forgiving wave for surfers ready to improve their skills.
Why Padang Padang is Great for Intermediates:
- Smaller right-hand waves perfect for practicing speed and maneuvering
- Stunning scenic beauty with crystal-clear waters
- Less crowded compared to more famous breaks like Uluwatu
Padang Padang is an excellent spot for intermediates who want to surf world-renowned waves while still having a manageable challenge.
8. Balangan Beach – A Hidden Gem for Intermediates
For those seeking a quieter, less crowded surf spot, Balangan Beach is a great option. Known for its consistent left-hand reef breaks, Balangan offers long rides and is perfect for intermediate surfers looking to improve their overall surfing technique.
Why Balangan is Ideal for Intermediates:
- Long, clean left-hand reef breaks
- Ideal for working on carving, bottom turns, and speed
- Less crowded than other Bali surf spots
With its beautiful surroundings and pristine waters, Balangan is an underrated surf spot that offers plenty of room for intermediates to practice and improve.
Tips for Surfing in Bali:
- Plan Your Surf Trip Around the Best Conditions: Bali’s surf spots vary depending on the season. The dry season (April to October) is the best time for beginners, as the waves are smaller and more consistent.
- Take a Surf Lesson: Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate, taking a lesson from a local instructor can dramatically improve your surfing technique.
- Respect Surf Etiquette: Bali’s surf culture is relaxed, but it’s important to follow basic etiquette, such as waiting your turn and sharing waves.
- Wear Reef Boots in Reef Breaks: Some of Bali’s surf spots, like Padang Padang, have sharp coral reefs that can be tough on your feet. Reef boots can help protect you while surfing.
Conclusion
Bali offers a range of surf spots for beginners and intermediate surfers to enjoy. From the mellow beach breaks at Kuta and Legian to the more challenging waves at Medewi and Padang Padang, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to catch your first wave or improve your technique, Bali’s warm waters and friendly surf scene provide the perfect environment for learning and progression.
Ready to catch some waves? Grab your board, head to one of these amazing surf spots, and experience the thrill of surfing in Bali!
