Bali is not just an island in Indonesia.
It's a feeling and a tropical state of mind, and for many beginner surfers it's where the exhilarating journey of riding waves begins.
With its warm waters, consistent waves and a plethora of surf spots, Bali has gained a reputation as a surfing Mecca accessible to all levels of surfers, but especially learners.
If you're feeling the call of the surf, you're in luck!
Kala Surf Camp and Bali's best beginner surf spots are waiting for you to learn and thrive.
With an average water temperature of 27 degrees Celsius, you can leave your wetsuit at home and enjoy the warm tropical waters.
The weather in Bali is also perfect for year-round surfing, with both the Dry and Wet seasons offering ideal conditions for beginners.
From gentle beach breaks to more challenging reef breaks, Bali has it all.
This variety of surf spots allows beginners to progress and improve their skills at their own pace.
You can start on the forgiving waves of Thomas Beach before moving on to other learner breaks like Old Man's in Canggu or Padang Padang Rights.
Bali has been a popular surfing destination for decades, making it home to a thriving surf community who are always welcoming and willing to help out beginners.
You can easily find surf schools and instructors to guide you as well as plenty of other encouraging surfers also sampling Bali's best beginner surf spots.
Bali is not just about surfing.
It's also a cultural hub steeped in rich traditions, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a well-rounded travel experience.
From exploring ancient temples to trying delicious local cuisine, Bali has almost everything. Mt Agung sunrise hike or nasi goreng, anyone?
Unsure as to what your skill level is?
If you fit into two or more of the following categories, then consider yourself a beginner surfer:
If any of these apply to you, don't worry!
Bali has more than enough beginner surf spots for you to improve your skills and gain confidence in the water.
Before you wax your board and hit the waves, it's important to choose the right surf spot that matches your skill level.
The tricky part?
Most beginner's aren't ocean or lineup-aware, which is understandable.
Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect beginner surf spot in Bali.
You're probably aware that Bali doesn't have the traditional four seasons.
Instead, the weather and climate in Indonesia is divided into the wet and dry season, with the former being from October to April and the latter from May to September.
In our experience, beginners can find waves all year-round, so it ultimately depends on your preferences.
The dry season has consistent waves, and the winds are generally light, making it ideal for beginners. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect crowded lineups and higher prices.
While there may be fewer tourists during the wet season, you can still find good surf conditions if you know where to look. Just be aware of the potential for the odd afternoon downpour, which can make surfing more challenging (and riding your moped to the waves more sketchy).
The beginner surf Bali scene is absolutely stacked with excellent waves to hone your surfing skills.
You can find a gentle beach break on your surf holiday or go on a true surfing adventure and surf in Bali over reef!
At the end of the day the choice is yours. You needn't feel pressured to surf a particular break or surf spot.
From the Bukit Peninsula to Kuta Beach, novice surfers will be able to surf bali in style!
Kuta Beach is arguably one of the best places for beginner surfers to find their feet.
The long, sandy beach break here means you won't have to worry about sharp reefs below, and the waves provide a soft, forgiving ride.
Tips for Surfing at Kuta Beach:
Generally regarded as a party animal or hipster's paradise by the sea, Canggu has a laid-back vibe that extends into the surf.
With several breaks to choose from, it's a locale that caters to both the novice and the seasoned surfer looking to chill alike.
Tips for surfing at Canggu Beach:
Dreamland is a good spot for surfers who have progressed beyond the whitewater and are looking for a bit more challenge.
The waves here can get powerful, but they're also consistent and offer long rides.
Tips for surfing at Dreamland Beach:
Baby Padang is a soft reef break that offers both left and right-breaking waves.
As a beginner surf spot in Bali with a reef bottom, you can begin by catching whitewater waves then progress onto surfing green waves as your confidence builds.
Tips for surfing at Padang Padang Rights:
This is a sheltered wave with a sand-bottom that's perfect for beginners on the hunt for gentler waves to practise on.
It's a favourite among longboard surfers, and you're likely to share the lineup with them at this spot.
Tips for surfing at Jimbaran Bay:
Located in the serene southeast corner of Padang, Thomas Beach is a sanctuary for novice surfers.
With easily rideable waves, it's ideal for learners when the tide is high.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of a spacious white sand beach while sipping on fresh coconuts served at local warungs.
Oh... and did we mention it has killer sunsets?
Tips for surfing at Thomas Beach:
For those just starting out on their learn-to-surf journey, these beginner surf spots in Bali offer the perfect blend of safety, low crowd levels and easy access.
Remember, every pro surfer once stood where you are now - on the shore with eager eyes fixed on the horizon. Embrace the surf culture, respect the ocean and these beginner Balinese waves may just change your life.
Paddle out, pop up and ride the wave of your dreams. Here's to finding joy on Bali’s perfect learner waves!
