The best surf spots in Bali

Nestled in front of The Lawn and Old Man's (yes, that legendary beachfront bar), Batu Bolong is a favourite for beginners and longboarders who crave those cruisy, laid-back rides. Its soft, consistent waves offer the perfect playground for first-timers or anyone looking to polish their longboarding skills without fear of being pummelled.

On a good day, the left and right peaks can stretch over 100 metres, rolling gently over a forgiving reef that feels less “treacherous” and more “try-again-tomorrow.” Lower tides add a touch of spice, making it a hotspot for longboarders seeking those long, lazy walls.

Fair warning: the crowd can be intense, but the generous breaks here keep things friendly and manageable. 

Surfing level: Beginner to intermediate

Once you’ve graduated from Batu Bolong, take a short five-minute stroll to Old Man’s Reef—not to be confused with the buzzing bar nearby. The actual reef sits at the corner of Jalan Munduk Catu and Jalan Pura Dalem, offering mellow waves catering to beginners testing the waters and intermediates looking to level up.

This break serves up lefts and rights, with the lefts typically packing a bit more punch. Low to mid-tides are your best bet, especially when the swell is on the smaller side—higher tides can turn the waves soft as they fade into a deep inside channel.

When the swell picks up, things get interesting. The right may close out, but the lefts come alive, delivering quality waves with barrel potential and sections perfect for carving turns.

Surfing level: Beginner to intermediate

The Uluwatu area is a surfer’s paradise, home to 10 world-class breaks scattered along its stunning limestone cliffs. Each spot has its own vibe and challenges, catering to everyone from mellow cruisers to big-wave daredevils. This region is famed for its unparalleled consistency and ability to deliver waves for almost any condition, making it a go-to for surfers of all levels.

The stretch commonly referred to as “Uluwatu” is actually Suluban Beach, the crown jewel of the area and Bali’s most iconic surf spot. Boasting a lineup of peaks, including The Peak, Racetrack, Outside Corner, Temples, and The Bombie, this legendary break has something for nearly every surfer willing to take on its power. Uluwatu picks up every ounce of swell thanks to its exposed position, meaning it’s rarely flat–but its waves can be both exhilarating and unforgiving.

Expect sharp reefs, strong currents, and a competitive line-up teeming with local talent and seasoned travellers. Beginners may want to watch from the safety of the iconic cliffside warungs before attempting these waves.

Surfing level: Intermediate to advanced

Kedungu, located near the iconic Tanah Lot temple, offers a refreshing escape from Canggu’s packed lineups. This spot is perfect for intermediate surfers and those seeking quieter waters without sacrificing quality waves.

Kedungu features three distinct breaks: the main peak, the front cliff peak, and a beginner-friendly wave. The main peak, an A-frame, provides left and right-handers, making it a great spot to sharpen both frontside and backside skills. On smaller swells, the waves are soft and forgiving, ideal for beginners and intermediates. When the swell picks up, the long lefts challenge more experienced surfers.

Accessible at the end of Jalan Pantai Kedungu, this beach combines consistency with a laid-back vibe, making it a rising favourite among surfers looking for an alternative to Bali’s busier spots. And before heading back, stop by one of the local warungs for a post-surf meal. 

Surfing level: Intermediate to advanced, depending on the break

Known for its river mouth break, Balian offers a consistent surf experience without the competitive edge of busier Bali spots. Tucked beneath the mountains on the island’s west coast, the cool morning breeze and unique topography create clean, peeling waves perfect for intermediates while still welcoming other skill levels.

The river feeding into Balian carves a deep-water channel that amplifies even the smallest swells, making this a reliable year-round destination. The beach features three distinct breaks—The Peak, Ketut, and Inside Lefts—each offering varied challenges for surfers looking to refine their skills.

Despite its dreamy conditions, surfers should stay cautious. Recent shark activity, particularly when the river turns the water brown, has added an edge to this otherwise serene spot. 

Surfing level: Intermediate to advanced

Kuta might carry the reputation of being Bali’s party playground, but it also boasts some of the island’s finest waves. Enter Kuta Reef, the original left-hand reef break that’s been drawing surfers since the beginning of Bali’s surf scene.

Crowds? Expect plenty. With Kuta just a stone’s throw away, the lineup is packed with surfers paddling across the channel. For a little breathing room, head further up the reef to Middles or even Airport Lefts—both less chaotic but equally rewarding.

Reaching Kuta Reef isn’t as straightforward as paddling out from the shore. It’s a long haul, so most surfers opt for a local boat ride, hopping off just before the reef. Once there, you’ll find clean, peeling waves and a chance to ride Bali’s surf history—if you can outmanoeuvre the crowd, that is.

Surfing level: Intermediate to advanced

If Canggu’s glory days as a quaint surfing haven feel like a distant memory, Medewi is here to reclaim the vibe. Located in a sleepy fishing village on Bali’s west coast, this black sand beach offers a refreshing escape from the island’s busier surf spots.

Medewi’s slow-rolling waves are its crown jewel—perfect for surfers looking to refine their technique without the pressure of crowded lineups. It’s a year-round gem, consistently delivering surfable waves no matter the season.

Post-surf, you’ll find no shortage of beachside cafés to kick back with a coffee as you soak in the laid-back atmosphere. While it’s still under the radar for now, Medewi is quickly gaining traction as Bali’s next go-to surf destination.

Surfing level: Intermediate to advanced