Bali’s Best Surfing Beaches

People might think of Australia or Hawaii when they think about surfing, but Bali actually has some of the best surfing beaches around. With seemingly endless waves, the white sands of this Indonesian paradise have called surfers from around the world since the 1930s. Since it is located in the southern Indian Ocean, Bali’s beaches see swells pick up at all times of the year. A trip to this island is the perfect way to beat off-season blues.

Uluwatu Beach in Pecatu Village

The first thing anyone would notice about Uluwatu is the amazing coral reef that makes up the bulk of this incredible beach. The swell of the beach is as fast as it is hollow, but taller waves batter the beach from the top of the rocky bottom. These waves are best left to the most experienced surfers, but anyone who has the talent to ride them won’t be disappointed. On a good day, these can grow to anywhere from 15m to 30m.

Kuta Beach in Southwestern Bali

Kuta Beach seems to be the most popular surfing beach in the region. One of the reasons for this is the fact that the quality waves can beckon even those who are beginners. Many of the other Balinese beaches aren’t the best for those who don’t have a little more experience carving the waves. The beach experiences a southwesterly swell direction with a southeasterly wind. Surfers who actually stay in the heart of the city might even be able to walk straight out of their hotel and out to the water’s edge.

The Waves at Padang Padang Beach can reach 300m

On the best days, the south-southwesterly swells on Padang Padang Beach can genuinely reach up to 300m long. Even on an average day, the swells reach around 50m long. The Bukit Peninsula surf camp is a great place for those who don’t have as much experience, and there is no end to the advice that local guides are willing to share with visitors. The Padang Padang beach has truly earned the title of “Bali’s Pipeline,” though, and beginners might want to beware of the sharp reef bottom that typifies so many Balinese beaches.

Bingin is Another Place to Catch a Hollow Wave

Experienced surfers who are ready to handle the hollow and fast barrels at Bingin should be exciting. However, anyone who tries to tackle this unique beach needs to watch out for raised coral that makes it even more of a challenge than the waves do. Of course, such a dynamic beach is equally as addictive.

Nusa Dua is the Best Beach During Rainy Season

With a right wave direction, sharp reef bottom and huge waves the Nusa Dua beach is another great place for experts who can take it. However, the natural features aren’t the only things that make it so interesting. Surfers who want to save themselves some time and effort might not need to paddle out to the break. Local fishermen at Nusa Dua sometimes offer a life for around 5,000 rp.

Michael is a lover of surfing and traveller of the globe. Having visited many great surfing locations around the world, Bali holidays are amongst his favorite. With great beaches, culture and laid-back atmosphere, it’s one of his most visited destinations.