Bali isn’t just a destination for spiritual retreats and cultural encounters—it’s also a paradise for surfers from around the globe. With its diverse coastline and consistent swells, the island offers a surfing experience unlike any other, from beginner-friendly breaks to world-class waves.
Here are five of the best surfing beaches in Bali that you should add to your bucket list.
- Uluwatu: Legendary Breaks Beneath the Cliffs
Located at the southern tip of Bali, Uluwatu is a surfing haven tucked beneath dramatic limestone cliffs. It takes about 45 minutes to get here from Ngurah Rai International Airport. As you descend to the beach, you’re greeted with panoramic views and the majestic Uluwatu Temple perched on the edge of the cliff.
The reef break here is fast, powerful, and perfect for experienced surfers. It’s no surprise that Uluwatu regularly hosts international surf competitions. Entry to the area is about IDR 10,000–15,000.
- Padang Padang: A Hidden Gem for Tube Lovers
Just a short drive from Uluwatu, Padang Padang is a smaller beach accessed through a narrow gap between boulders. Once you reach the sandy cove, you’re met with glassy waves and a laid-back vibe. The break here is known for its hollow barrels—ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Though compact, it offers an exotic atmosphere that comes alive during surf season. The beach is about 45–60 minutes from the airport, with an entrance fee of around IDR 10,000.
- Canggu: Where Surf Meets Café Culture
North of Kuta, Canggu has grown into a surfer’s haven that blends beach culture with modern living. Located about an hour from the airport, it’s perfect for surfers of all levels.
Beginner-friendly waves can be found at Batu Bolong, while Echo Beach caters to more seasoned surfers. Around the beach, hip cafés, yoga studios, and coworking spaces create a vibrant lifestyle hub. No entry fee is required, just a small parking fee of IDR 2,000–5,000.
- Medewi: Long Rides and Quiet Vibes
If you’re looking for a more tranquil surfing experience, Medewi Beach in Jembrana offers peaceful surroundings and long, mellow waves perfect for longboarding.
It’s around a 2.5–3 hour drive from Denpasar, but the journey is well worth it. Away from the hustle of southern Bali, Medewi is all about slow living, surrounded by rice fields and local fishing villages. There’s no entrance fee, and the calm, consistent waves make it a great spot for laid-back sessions.
- Keramas: East Coast Energy and Powerful Breaks
On Bali’s east coast, Keramas Beach delivers strong, fast waves that attract advanced surfers and professionals. About an hour from Denpasar, Keramas has hosted major surfing events like the World Surf League.
The beach is home to luxurious spots like Komune Resort, but it’s still accessible to the public. No entrance fee is required, just standard parking charges. If you’re up for a thrill, sunrise sessions at Keramas can be unforgettable.
Whether it’s the dramatic cliffs of Uluwatu or the mellow charm of Medewi, every surfing beach in Bali tells a different story. Beyond the waves, these spots offer a deeper connection with the island’s natural beauty, culture, and community.
Surfing in Bali is not just about riding the perfect wave—it’s about living the moment, embracing the lifestyle, and finding a little piece of paradise with every ride. (BT)
Image source: Padang Padang Surf Camp
