Bali, the stunning Indonesian island, is one of the world’s very best surfing destinations. With beautiful beaches, endless barrelling waves, tropical island living, and world-class surf breaks to suit all experience levels from complete beginners to pros.
There’s a thriving surf scene on the island with an abundance of surf lodges, surf schools and surf camps in Bali to choose from. Bali’s surf schools are a great place to learn how to ride the waves so and you want to learn how to surf in a fun, sociable, and safe way then I highly recommend joining a surf camp in Bali.
There’s so many surf schools in Bali that it can take time trawling through and comparing all the options so I wrote this guide to surf camps in Bali to help you avoid overwhelm.
In this post I’ll give you some tips on surfing in Bali including the best places to surf and recommend some of the best Bali surf camps to help you plan your surf trip.
My Guide to the Best Bali Surf Camps
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Why join a surf camp in Bali?
The pros may look easy but surfing can be really tricky (and kinda dangerous when you inevitably fall off) so if you’re serious about learning to surf, or improving your technique, then I’d really recommend signing yourself up for some surf lessons or even better staying at one of the excellent surf schools or surf camps in Bali.
The first time I tried to surf was in Kuta, Bali a few years ago and I sucked as I didn’t know what I was doing and didn’t feel confident in the water. I just kept falling off. Then, I took a weeks surf and yoga retreat in Taghazout, Morocco which got me standing up on the board and confident in the sea in no time.
When I returned to Bali I felt much more confident and have now been learning how to turn and tackling the green waves. I’m still far from being a pro but trust me – having an experienced surf instructor and spending time immersed in the surf lifestyle really helps and is a lot of fun. The surf camps will also take you to the breaks that best suit the conditions of that day and your ability level.
Many surf schools offer not just surf lessons but also yoga classes – the two really compliment each other. Accommodation and meals are often included too so it’s like a complete package that can be great value for money.
Best places to surf in Bali
Bali first emerged on the global surfing scene in the late 1960s, and since then, it has become one of the most popular surf hangouts and a prime destination for surfers from around the world.
There’s an endless variety of surf breaks in Bali but the best places to surf are mostly found in South Bali and the Bukit Peninsula. Some the best include:
- Kuta Beach: One of Bali’s most popular surf spots ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. The waves are generally gentle and consistent, and the beach is sandy, making it perfect for learning and improving your skills safely. There’s tons of surf schools, camps, hostels, restaurants, shops and bars, mostly at budget friendly prices.
- Legian and Seminyak: Just north of Kuta, Legian beach and more upmarket Seminyak beach are also popular areas for beginners and intermediates looking to improve their skills.
- Canggu: This trendy and super popular beach has several beginner-friendly and intermediate surf breaks, like Batu Bolong and Echo Beach, while spots like Old Man’s and Pererenan are better for intermediate to advanced surfers. There’s plenty of yoga classes, gyms and healthy cafes in this fitness loving area too.
- Uluwatu: A world-famous surf spot known for its long, fast, and powerful left-hand reef break. It is best suited for experienced surfers due to the challenging waves and the sharp reef. There’s also a picturesque temple perched on the cliff.
- Padang Padang: One of the most picturesque beaches near Ulu Watu with a reef break that offers beginner friendly, intermediate and challenging waves, depending on the conditions and season. The Rip Curl Cup is held here.
- Impossibles: Located near Padang Padang, Impossibles has long, fast, and challenging left-hand waves for advanced surfers.
- Bingin: A challenging left-hand reef break offering barrels and long rides for experienced surfers.
- Balangan Beach: Overlooked by dramatic cliffs with a reef break suitable for beginners to advanced, depending on the conditions.
- Dreamland: Another fantastic surf spot in Bali for its beautiful sandy beach and great waves. The surf at Dreamland Beach is suitable for beginner to intermediate surfers, depending on the conditions.
- Medewi Beach: A long, mellow, left hand point break located in less crowded West Bali for intermediate surfers and those who want an off the beaten track experience.
- Keramas: A challenging reef break located on Bali’s east coast.
So if you’re coming to Bali to surf, look for schools and plan to stay near one of these beaches and surf hotspots.
My pick of the 5 best surf camps in Bali
If you are a beginner surfer or at a novice ability level, it can be a bit daunting trying to research which are the best surf spots and surf camps in Bali for beginners. So to help you save time doing all that research, I’ve put together a list below of the best surf camps in Bali that are suitable for beginners as well as more advanced surfers.
- Pelan Pelan Surf & Yoga Camp, Canggu
- Stoked Surf Camp, Kuta Beach
- Kubu Surf School, Gili Trawangan
- Surf & Yoga Bali, Canggu
- Medewi Surf School, Medewi
Carry on for more on what makes each surf camp one of the best or, if you’d like more options then a good place to find surf camps is on booksurfcamps.com. On this site you can see photos, details of lessons, instructors, accommodation and meals. Most importantly you can read real reviews before booking your surf camp so you know what to expect.
Pelan Pelan Surf Camp and Yoga Retreat, near Canggu
- Location: Cemagi, near Canggu
- Duration: 8 Days
- Level: Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced
- Price: From US $947
If you want to experience surfing in Canggu, stretch it out with yoga lessons and stay in a beautful Balinese resort then Pelan Pelan is a great choice.
Surfers often describe time on the waves as a meditation, and this retreat combines this experience with daily hatha yoga sessions, to enable you to connect deeply with nature and with your true self.
The fun and professional surf instructors will take you to the best waves each day, and ensure personalised tuition to help you meet your goals. All levels are welcome and massages and meditation sessions are also included.
Even though it’s one of the most sought after Bali surf camps and yoga retreats and located in trendy Canggu, the pace of life is slower at Pelan Pelan Bali, and it doesn’t take long for your internal rhythms to follow suit – leaving you rested, rejuvenated, and in touch with your inner peace.
During this amazing 8-day surf and yoga retreat experience, you’ll stay at the resort, with the option of a shared room or private suite. A healthy breakfast and homemade Indonesian lunch are included each day and some of Bali’s best restaurants are located nearby for you to explore for dinner.
As part of the retreat, you’ll enjoy a half-day cultural excursion with a lovely local tour guide that introduces you to Bali’s spiritual heritage, nature, and local traditions. This includes a visit to Taman Ayun Temple, Sangeh Monkey Forest and the iconic Tanah Lot Temple at sunset.
Also See: Best Yoga Retreats in Bali
Stoked Surf Camp, Kuta Beach
- Location: Kuta Beach Hotel. Kuta
- Duration: 5 Days
- Level: Beginner
- Price: From US $480
If you’re looking for the ideal place to learn to surf and catch your first wave head to Stoked Surf Camp at Kuta Beach.
Group sizes are kept small on this 5-day surf camp, so that newbie surfers can get all the customised tuition needed. Surf lessons last 2-5 hours each day, and are designed to get you having fun in the surf as quickly and safely as possible.
The location in popular Kuta means there are also plenty of exhilarating activities and nightlife nearby. The hotel accommodation includes an en-suite bathroom, balcony, and daily breakfast to set you up for the day.
For an escape from the day-to-day – the laid-back sense of fun and adventure at Stoked Surf Camp Bali is the ideal getaway.
Kubu Surf School, Gili Trawangan
- Location: Rumah Canaria Bungalows, Gili Trawangan
- Duration: 5 Days
- Level: Beginner & Intermediate
- Price: From US $368
If you’ve always wanted to take to the waves but never had the opportunity, the ‘Learn to Surf’ camp from Kubu Surf School is tailored to help you meet your goals.
The 5-day surf camp on the beautiful tiny paradise island of Gili Trawangan, a short boat ride away from Bali, takes you from surf-theory on day one to a photoshoot to capture you conquering the surf on your final day.
You’ll stay in a bamboo bungalows only five minutes walk from the beach surrounded by coconut fields. With weekly live reggae and barbecues on the beach, the surf party atmosphere is alive and well.
Aside from surf time, you can also go snorkelling with the local turtles, relax on the beach and explore the island or even go island hopping to explore the other Gili Islands.
Read more: Best Yoga Teacher Training in Bali
Surf & Yoga Bali, Canggu
- Location: Batu Bolong, Canggu
- Duration: 6 Days
- Level: Beginner & Intermediate
- Price: From US $554
With Surf & Yoga Bali, you can enjoy 6 days of surfing on Bali’s most trendy surf beach. In addition, you’ll get twice-daily yoga classes, which are specifically designed to improve mobility and prevent muscle fatigue, as well as a host of other activities and mindful workshops that are optional to join.
Each morning starts with a gentle stretching session before breakfast, then you’ll head out for your daily surf lesson. The surf program is very comprehensive, including pool sessions and surf theory classes; things many surf schools miss. So, this is an excellent retreat for beginners who want to (finally) master the basics!
In the afternoons, you’ll enjoy more yoga and meditation. Then in the evenings, you can join healing practices such as somatic healing, Reiki circles and sound healing.
The camp is in a quiet corner of Canggu, the guest rooms are a blend of bright, modern design and Bali’s signature boho style and there is a 12 meter swimming pool onsite. The package also includes home-cooked vegetarian breakfast and dinner every day and ice bath access.
Medewi Surf School, Medewi
- Location: Medewi, Bali’s west coast
- Duration: 7 Days
- Level: Intermediate & Advanced
- Price: From US $485
Medewi Surf School and Brown Sugar Surf Camp welcomes intermediate surfers to hone their technique at this 8-day green waves surf camp in Medewi in West Bali.
Medewi is home to Bali’s longest wave and a refreshing escape for Bali’s main tourist hotspots. With twice-daily surf sessions, your experienced surf guides will take you to the best waves of the day and provide tuition and tips to take your surf to the next level.
Choose between a traditional Balinese bungalow or deluxe villa for your week’s accommodation – all with tropical gardens and surrounded by lush rice fields.
Further afield, you’ll find volcanoes, temples, and endless beaches awaiting exploration. Aside from upping your surf game, you can join visits to local hot springs, a snorkeling trip, or simply hang ten and enjoy the buzz at one of Bali’s best surf camps.
Best time to surf in Bali
One of the reasons Bali has become such a legendary surf destination is that you can surf here all year round – but the conditions do change depending on the season and which coast you’re on.
The dry season, from May to September, is generally considered the best time to surf in Bali, especially along the west coast and the Bukit Peninsula. During these months, the prevailing south-easterly trade winds create clean, offshore conditions at spots like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Bingin, Balangan, and even Kuta.
The swells are more consistent and often bigger, which is why you’ll see experienced surfers flocking here at this time of year. If you’re confident in the water and want those classic, glassy left-handers, this is when Bali really shines.
The wet season, from October to April, brings more variable winds and occasional heavy rain showers, but that doesn’t mean you should write it off. In fact, this is when the east coast comes into its own.
Surf spots like Keramas and other breaks along Bali’s eastern shoreline tend to have cleaner offshore conditions during these months. It’s also a good time for beginners and intermediates, as the swells can be a little smaller and some beaches are less crowded compared to peak dry season.
If you’re just starting out, you can learn to surf in Bali at any time of year. Beaches like Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and parts of Canggu offer relatively consistent waves year-round, and surf schools operate every day.
The key is choosing the right beach for the season – west coast in the dry season, east coast in the wet season. So when planning your Bali surf trip, think about your skill level as well as the season. Bali always has waves somewhere on the island; you just need to know where to look.
Final thoughts on surfing in Bali
Bali is a legendary surfing destination with something for everyone. if you’re thinking about booking a surf camp in Bali, I honestly think it’s one of the best places in the world to do it. Few destinations offer this kind of variety – beginner-friendly beach breaks, powerful reef waves, warm water, affordable accommodation, and a laid-back lifestyle that makes it easy to settle in and focus on improving.
What I love about surf camps here is that they take away all the guesswork. You don’t have to stress about which beach is working, how to read the tides, or how to get to the right break at sunrise. Everything is organised for you, from daily surf sessions and video analysis to meals and accommodation. Whether you stay in Kuta, Canggu, or down on the Bukit, you’re surrounded by people who are there for the same reason – to surf, progress, and enjoy the Bali lifestyle.
That said, not all surf camps are the same. Some are social and party-oriented, others are focused and performance-driven, and some blend surfing with yoga and wellness. Think about what you want from the experience before booking. Are you a total beginner who wants patient coaching in small waves? Or are you chasing bigger swells and more technical guidance? Bali caters to all levels – you just need to choose the right base and season.
For me, a surf camp in Bali isn’t just about standing up on a board. It’s about sunrise sessions, salty hair, post-surf smoothie bowls, and that feeling of finally catching a clean wave after days of trying. If you’re ready to immerse yourself in surf culture, improve your skills, and experience one of the world’s most iconic wave destinations, Bali is a pretty perfect place to start
If you found my recommendations for the best surf camps in Bali useful and want to book through my links I can earn a small commission which helps to keep this site going at no extra cost to you so thank you! 😊
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4 comments
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Not on your list, but my best small surf camp experience was at Seaside Tribe – Boutique Surf Stay & Retreat in Kedungu, on the south-west coast of Bali.
Hey Irina! Thanks for the tip! I’ll have to check it out next time 🙂